Essential India
Use code BONUS10 to get an extra 10% off all tours — for a limited time only. T&Cs apply
From AUD $1574 Was AUD $2099
Small Group
Light
Rating
(20 reviews)
Essential India
Use code BONUS10 to get an extra 10% off all tours — for a limited time only. T&Cs apply
15 days
Small Group
Budget
Light
English
Experience Overview
From the intricate saris of Rajasthan to the beautiful symmetry of the Taj Mahal, this compact journey is a photographer's delight and the perfect introduction to India.
Includes
Activities
- Your G for Good Moment: Women With Wheels Transfer, Indira Gandhi International Airport Your G for Good Moment: City Walk, Delhi Your G for Good Moment: Anoothi Block Printing Experience, Jaipur Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
- Old Delhi walk with stops at the Jama Masjid, Gurduwara, Chandni Chowk, and Connaught Place
- Amber Fort tour
- Rajasthani rural village stay
- Village cycling excursion
- Abhaneri stepwells visit
- Taj Mahal and I’timad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj) entrance
- Agra Fort entrance and guided tour
- Orchha Palace complex visit
- Western Temple complex entrance and guided visit
- Ganges River boat trip at sunrise and sunset, including candle flower ceremony
- Internal flight
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
Accommodation
- Hotels (12 nts), comfortable tented camp (1 nt), sleeper train (1 nt).
- 1 breakfast, 1 dinner
Transport
- Train, local bus, private vehicle, auto-rickshaw, small riverboat, plane.
Group Leader
- CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
Highlights
- Explore India's vibrant cities
- Discover ancient forts and temples
- Revel in the beauty of Agra's Taj Mahal
- Witness the erotic sculptures of Khajuraho and Orchha
- Sail the Ganges in venerable Varanasi
Trip Details
15 days
Train, local bus, private vehicle, auto-rickshaw, small riverboat, plane.
English
Delhi, India
Delhi, India
Budget
Classic, Budget
Light
Itinerary
Day 1: Delhi
Arriving early with a free day in Delhi? Opt to add the "Half Day Culinary Tour of Delhi" extra to your tour.
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Transfer by a G Adventures-supported project, Women With Wheels. This program provides safe and reliable transport for travellers, while providing a dignified livelihood for local women who once lacked financial opportunities.Activity - Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.Accommodation - Hotel Singh Sahib
Day 2: Delhi
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Explore the streets of Delhi with a youth-led tour guide from the G Adventures-supported City Walk project. As a former at-risk youth, your local guide will have a unique perspective on the city and can provide more information on the life of a child in India. The guided tour helps support the guide's college or university tuition.Activity - Travel through the winding roads of Old Delhi to visit the gorgeous Jama Masjid, the Great Mosque of Delhi. Commissioned by Shah Jahan, the Mughal emperor who also commissioned the Taj Mahal, it is the best-known and largest mosque in India. Explore the stately structure, which was completed in 1656, and enjoy its massive courtyard, which can hold 25,000 worshippers.Activity - Learn the history of the Sikh religion at this historically significant Gurdwara, which is a Sikh place of worship. Activity - Explore the Victorian architecture of Connaught Place, which is a giant circle at the centre of any map of Delhi. Buy trinkets and textiles at the market on Janpath, which came into being when refugees from Pakistan began peddling their wares on this road after Partition in 1947. It remains one of Delhi's most colourful markets, and is very popular with tourist and locals alike. Activity - Enjoy a stroll through Chandni Chowk, one of India's oldest and busiest markets. Be sure to stop and try one of the many types of paranthas (stuffed Indian bread) sold in stalls lining the streets.Accommodation - Hotel Singh Sahib
Day 3: Delhi/Jaipur
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Women from marginalised communities outside Jaipur came together to create the Anoothi Project. In Hindi, Anoothi means 'unique and extraordinary' and by teaching these women to master the traditionally male handicraft of block printing, the collective shines a light on the unique and extraordinary within each individual. At this G for Good visit, engage in a hands-on block printing activity with the local women as you indulge in some local snacks prepared by your hosts.Accommodation - Utsav Niwas
Day 4: Jaipur
Opt to see the city on bicycle by pre-booking the Jaipur Cycle Tour.
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Take in the Hindu and Muslim architecture of the beautiful Amber Fort. Wander through the halls and courtyards and admire the intricate details.Accommodation - Utsav Niwas
Day 5: Jaipur/Dhula Village
Before saying farewell to the Pink City, admire it from above by pre-booking the Jaipur Balloon Ride when booking your tour.
Tonight's accommodation is in spacious and comfortable tents outfitted with beds, lamps, and simple en suite bathrooms.
Meals included: Dinner
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Set off to discover quaint Dhula on two wheels. Take in the peaceful rhythm of village life and Rajasthan's scenery as you cycle along. Accommodation - Camp Dhula Bagh
Day 6: Dhula Village/Āgra
Meals included: Breakfast
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Walk around the amazing Chand Baori, a tenth century water tank that's an impressive 6.1m (20 ft) deep. Learn about ancient Indian environmentalism—a "baori" is a unique Indian invention for harvesting rainwater.Accommodation - Hotel Marine House
Day 7: Āgra
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Cross one off your bucket list as you visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Explore the gorgeous white marble mausoleum, built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a testament of his love for his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Activity - Enjoy a visit to this impressive Mughal fort made of red sandstone and white marble.Activity - Visit this mausoleum that looks like a jewel box, built before the Taj Mahal by Queen Nur Jahan for her father. Enjoy the intricate details of the structure; it was the first Mughal building faced with white marble and where "pietra dura" (precious stones inlaid into marble) was first used. Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Hotel Marine House
Day 8: Āgra/Alīpura
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Free_time - Enjoy some free time to meet the locals and check out village life.Accommodation - Alipura Palace
Day 9: Alīpura
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Get ready to be impressed by the beautiful temples of Khajuraho during this guided tour. Not intended for the bashful, these erotic carvings are similar to style of the Kama Sutra. These Hindu temples were build over a span of a 100 years, and while originally there were more than 80 of them, only 22 currently remain. Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Alipura Palace
Day 10: Alīpura/Orchha
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Enjoy a visit to this unique paper-making plant, set up to assist tribal women from the area. All the paper is made from recycled clothing and wood pulp. Activity - Experience a Hindu prayer ceremony presenting flowers, incense, and food to an image or idol representing a deity.Accommodation - Ganpati Palace
Day 11: Orchha/Varanasi
Opt to sharpen your culinary skills by pre-booking the Orchha Cooking School extra when booking your tour.
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Visit the three separate palaces, or "mahals," in this complex: the Raj Mahal, Jehangir Mahal, and Rai Parveen Mahal. Enjoy the medieval architecture and learn about its rich history. Free_time - Enjoy free time to check out the local markets.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.
Day 12: Varanasi
Pre-book the Varanasi Heritage Walk and enjoy a guided tour that focuses more on the local life in Varanasi and its philosophical and cultural values. Witness pilgrims singing and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of Varanasi in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Enjoy a boat ride on the sacred Ganges River, where Hindu pilgrims from all over the world come to wash away their sins and cremate their loved ones. Participate in a candle and flower ceremony while on the water.Accommodation - Hotel Vaibhav
Day 13: Varanasi
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Catch the sunrise from a boat cruising the sacred Ganges River, where Hindu pilgrims from all over the world come to wash away their sins and cremate their loved ones. Witness locals participating in dawn rituals of bathing and burning at the river.Free_time - Explore all this famous city has to offer.Accommodation - Hotel Vaibhav
Day 14: Varanasi/Delhi
Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Do some last minute sightseeing with free time in the morning.Accommodation - Hotel Singh Sahib
Day 15: Delhi
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
- Flights to and from origin and destinations
- Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
- Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
- Recommended gratuities/tipping
- Optional activities/tours
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.
You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.
Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.
This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.
Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.
If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.
If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.
Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.
- It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
- Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
- Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
From
AUD $2099
Duration: 15 days
Trip Type: Small Group
Activity Level: Light
From the intricate saris of Rajasthan to the beautiful symmetry of the Taj Mahal, this compact journey is a photographer's delight and the perfect introduction to India.
Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 12 Apr 2026
Customer Reviews
12/31/2023
Our CEO made the trip seamless despite the challenges of travelling in India.
12/31/2023
The trip was extremely well-planned, travelling not too arduous, and covered many incredible sights
Tour Operator
G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.
In Business Since 1990
12/31/2023
Our CEO made the trip seamless despite the challenges of travelling in India.
12/31/2023
The trip was extremely well-planned, travelling not too arduous, and covered many incredible sights
12/31/2023
Well organized. Have had overall good experiences throughout.
12/31/2023
Everything that was within the guide/organization was delivered and even exceeded.
12/31/2023
Tour guide & how the trip was organized
12/31/2023
I would gauge their age first as I think the classic tour, such as the one I did, might not be so suitable in terms of accommodation for 45+ age range
12/31/2023
It depends who you would be recommending too. I found most of hotel as 2 star back packers hotels
12/31/2023
The hassle free of organizing the trip, and all the travelling around Delhi and meeting new people who are now friends
12/31/2023
We',ve used G a few times and always enjoy their itineraries and this was no exception. Our guide, Ruby, was superb and the trip was well-balanced and extremely well organised.
12/24/2023
I have done many travel tours with different tour companies, and I feel that G Adventures has offered the best range of genuine experiences
12/24/2023
I have had wonderful experiences with G, am able to see a lot in a short amount of time, and take part in experiences that many times I may not find on my own
12/17/2023
it's been a great tour at a good pace which allowed to explore a big part of India. We had enough time to experience all the places. The organization of the tour was excellent, the places we visited was an amazing opportunity to see real India. From pick up at the airport to leaving the on the Last day it was all smooth and hassle free.
12/17/2023
Overall I was very happy with the whole trip and very grateful for the experience and that I choose this trip with G Adventures. The organization was really good, especially the transport was on time all the time, the itinerary made sense as well as the daily schedules of when and where to eat and I especially liked experiencing organizations' like Kitchen with a Cause, Sheroes and the Sikh Temple in Delhi. I really appreciate that G Adventures works with local guides and we got to see and experience villages as well as being invited into people',s homes. Our CEO, Dushyant Singh, was one of my highlights. He was very caring and made me feel safe. He answered all my questions with his expertise and knowledge, planned everything very well and made this trip extra special with his surprises, which were the real highlights for me. He also opened up about his personal life which was very interesting and gave me more insight into the Indian culture. He also faced some challenges during this trip, but he really did everything to make the best of it for us so that we did not miss anything. I was also very lucky to have a great group with people of different ages and backgrounds/countries.
12/17/2023
Well organized tours. Amazing local CEOs = knowledgeable, funny, friendly etc. Supports local communities and charities.
12/17/2023
Good organization, skilled CEO, ethical business model.
12/17/2023
I always had good experiences with G Adventures and liked the tours but sometimes the accommodation is not so great.
12/17/2023
3rd g trip and the 4th is booked love the company and their desire to help locals
12/17/2023
The spirit of G Adventures to let us, as foreigners, have a view of the authentic India. And I have to express my deepest thanks to your CEO Dushyant, who really lives the spirit of G adventure. He is the best promoter for all of us in the group to go out and motivate others to book your tours. If you decides to promote your tours, he is the one to choose.
12/10/2023
The price of G Adventures and the unique travel experiences that G offers.
12/10/2023
Personal experience
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