India: Women's Expedition

Intrepid Travel · 13 days
India: Women's Expedition
India: Women's Expedition
India: Women's Expedition
India: Women's Expedition
India: Women's Expedition
India: Women's Expedition
India: Women's Expedition
India: Women's Expedition
India: Women's Expedition
India: Women's Expedition
India: Women's Expedition
India: Women's Expedition
India: Women's Expedition
India: Women's Expedition
India: Women's Expedition
13 Days
From AUD $2305
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


 (20 reviews)

India: Women's Expedition

India: Women's Expedition

Intrepid Travel · 13 days
4.7
20 Reviews
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Duration

13 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Journey between the cities, villages and desert of Rajasthan and gain a unique insight into the lives of Indian women.

Highlights

  • Get to know northern India through the lives of the women who live there as you explore with a female leader, ride in women-only carriages on the metro and meet inspiring local women throughout your journey.
  • Head to the rural desert village of Chandelao Garh, where a local project provides female artisans with employment and education while preserving traditional craft practices. Check out their handicrafts and hear their stories.
  • Take jeeps into the Thar Desert and enjoy an exclusive Kalbeliya dance performed by local women at a desert camp. Enjoy some quality one-on-one time with the dancers while the men prepare dinner.
  • Visit a local woman's home and select a saree and accessories to wear on your visit to the Taj Mahal, one of the most beautiful buildings in the world inspired by the extraordinary love for an exceptional woman.
  • See the highlights of Jaipur and get to know your female driver on a tour with the eco-friendly Pink City Rickshaw Company – a non-profit providing employment and economic independence to women from low-income households.

Trip Details

Duration

13 days

Transportation

Auto rickshaw,Bus,Car,Cycle rickshaw,Jeep,Metro,Train,Private vehicle,Shuttle bus

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Delhi, India

Finishes

Delhi, India

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Women Only

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Delhi
Namaste! Welcome to Delhi. Your women’s expedition will begin with a welcome meeting at 6 pm at your hotel. Meet your local leader and fellow female travellers and find out what to expect over the course of your adventure. After, get to know your group and enjoy your first taste of India’s famous cuisine over an included dinner at a local restaurant.

Included Activities:

  • Delhi - Welcome dinner

Optional Activities:

  • Delhi - Humayun's Tomb (600 INR)
  • Delhi - Qutub Minar (600 INR)
  • Delhi - Red Fort (600 INR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Delhi to Bikaner
Navigate the city’s metro system to discover Old Delhi on a walking tour. You may ride the metro in a women’s only carriage today, giving you a unique insight into how local women travel around Delhi. Hitch a traditional cycle rickshaw ride through a typical Indian traffic jam in the streets around Chandni Chowk marketplace. Visit Delhi’s oldest and largest mosque – Jama Masjid. Duck into a Sikh temple for a quiet escape from the city and observe the spiritual side of this bustling metropolis. Visit the Dilli Haat market, where artisans from across the country are invited to showcase their wares for 15 days at a time, ensuring prices are fair and not subject to the inflation of big cities. The market is also home to a tempting array of food stalls, so you may like to take your tastebuds on a trip with some momos from Sikkim, spicy chicken from Nagaland or kebabs from Jammu. Later tonight, you’ll leave Delhi on an overnight sleeper train to Bikaner. Local vendors will board the train at various stops to sell snacks, but it’s advised that you bring some of your own food for the journey too

Included Activities:

  • Delhi - Dilli Haat INA Visit
  • Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
  • Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque
  • Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour

Accommodation:

  • Overnight Sleeper Train (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: Bikaner
Your overnight train will arrive in Bikaner just after 7 am this morning. Your group will be picked up by tuk-tuks and transferred to the hotel, where you can freshen up and grab some breakfast. Later, you’ll visit Junagarh Fort – built between 1589 and 1594, this red sandstone and marble fort is one of the most impressive forts in Rajasthan. You’ll explore the various palaces, courtyards and museums within the fort complex, then hop in the tuk-tuks to visit a local home in the Old Town. Here, some local women will show you how they make papadums and bhajia. Try some of the savoury snacks, chat with the women and enjoy a cup of chai together. This initiative, started by the RGAVP’s government program, nurtures the economic capability of women living below the poverty line in rural and urban areas. Through the practice of cooking, the women of Bikaner created a self-supporting platform to develop their skills and provide snacks to a local marketplace, self-sustaining their livelihoods.

Included Activities:

  • Bikaner - Junagarh Fort
  • Bikaner - Women’s Co-operative visit & tea

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4: Jaisalmer
This morning, take tuk-tuks to the train station for an early morning journey to Jaisalmer. There’s no food cart on the train, but your local leader will recommend the best snacks for you to buy before you board the train, so you won’t be left hungry. When you arrive, rest and recharge at your hotel during a free afternoon and evening, or head out and explore at your own pace – your local leader will know all the best spots to grab some delicious local cuisine.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
5
Day 5: Thar Desert
After breakfast, jump into 4WDs and head towards the Thar Desert – covering 200,000 square km, you’ll spend all day exploring the rolling sand hills before arriving at your desert camp. Here, you’ll meet some local men and women – the men will head off to prepare a traditional Rajasthani dinner, giving you a chance to get to know the women. They’ll put on a Kalbeliya dance performance – a traditional female dance where women in long skirts replicate the movements of a serpent as a representation of the snake charmer’s role in traditional Rajasthani society.

Included Activities:

  • Thar Desert - Kalbeliya Dance Performance
  • Thar Desert - Jeep Adventure

Accommodation:

  • Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
6
Day 6: Jodhpur
After breakfast at the desert camp, you’ll drive back to Jaisalmer in your 4WDs. From here, you’ll have a chance to check in to your hotel and freshen up before heading out on a walking tour with your leader to get to know this storied desert city. The citadel was built by Rawal Jaisal of the Bhati Rajput in 1156 AD, and with a history that’s been carefully recorded by the bards of Rajasthan since the 12th century, it’s not hard to imagine what life here once looked like. Strung between the former trade routes of the Great Thar Desert, your leader will share stories of Jaisalmer’s prosperous past. Return to your hotel and transfer to the train station to board the train to Jodhpur, arriving in the evening.

Included Activities:

  • Jaisalmer - City Tour

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
7
Day 7: Jodhpur
Head straight to the striking Mehrangarh Fort that towers over the city. You’ll take a guided tour here to explore some of the ornately decorated palaces and visit one of Rajasthan’s most interesting museums to learn about battles past. From here, you’ll go to the Sadar Bazaar in the Old City for a guided market tour and the opportunity to taste local delicacies like lassi and dal baati – both classics of Indian cuisine. You may like to spend the rest of the evening exploring the Old City, and your local leader will be able to recommend great places for dinner.

Included Activities:

  • Jodhpur - Meherangarh Fort
  • Jodhpur - Sadar Bazaar
  • Jodhpur - City Walk

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
8
Day 8: Chandelao Garh
Say goodbye to Jodhpur and drive to the village of Chandelao Garh. When you arrive, get your bearings with a walk through the village, then visit Sunder Rang – a project that employs local artisans, mostly women, while keeping traditional craft practices alive. Meaning ‘beautiful colours’, the vibrant pieces crafted by the women at Sunder Rang stand in contrast to the surrounding desert landscapes. More than 30 women are currently employed by Sunder Rang, with an hour of their workdays dedicated to their education. Meet the ladies who work here, browse the beautiful pieces they’ve created and learn about the project’s impact on their lives, their families and the wider village. This evening, take some time to explore Chandelao Garh further or relax at your heritage property accommodation. This evening – learn about the art of rangoli, where colourful patterns are made with various materials, join your hosts for traditional henna painting.

Included Activities:

  • Chandelao Garh - Village Walk
  • Chandelao Garh - Sundar Rang Crafts Centre Visit
  • Chandelao Garh - Rangoli making
  • Chandelao Garh - Henna painting

Accommodation:

  • Heritage Property (Number of Nights: 1)
9
Day 9: Jaipur
Limber up and start your day with a yoga session at your accommodation, then hop back in your private vehicle and make the journey to Jaipur – the capital of the Rajasthan region. When you arrive, stretch your legs with an orientation walk around the city. Follow your leader down streets buzzing with camel carts, rickshaws, trucks and bicycles and explore bazaars bursting with colourful goods, including handcrafted textiles, folk art and the local speciality of semi-precious stones. After your walk, discover a beloved part of Indian culture as you head out for a screening of a Bollywood film. Visit the Raj Mandir Cinema – this Art Deco-style building is one of Jaipur’s most popular spots and has played host to many movie premiers.

Included Activities:

  • Jaipur - Leader-led orientation walk
  • Jaipur - Bollywood movie at Raj Mandir
  • Chandelao Garh - Morning Yoga

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
10
Day 10: Jaipur
This morning, head into town for a memorable rickshaw ride with The Pink City Rickshaw Company – a not-for-profit organisation that aims to provide a new aspirational employment opportunity to 200 women from low-income households in Jaipur. See the highlights of the city and get to know your amazing female driver as you zip through the streets. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Amber Fort – one of Jaipur’s most recognisable landmarks. The red sandstone and marble palace is set high on a hill overlooking Maota Lake, and there is plenty of history to learn about as well as picturesque sights. This evening, visit a local home in Jaipur, where you’ll be welcomed for an evening of fun and feasting. Chat with your hosts about their lives, learn about the meals they make at home then sit down for a truly tasty dinner.

Included Activities:

  • Jaipur - Amber Fort
  • Jaipur - City tour with The Pink City Rickshaw Company
  • Jaipur - Home-cooking Class

Optional Activities:

  • Jaipur - City Palace (1200 INR)
  • Jaipur - Jantar Mantar Observatory (200 INR)
  • Jaipur - Balloon Safari (280 USD)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
11
Day 11: Agra
Today you’ll make the trip to Agra by train. Your first stop will be a visit to the home of a local woman who will help you choose the perfect saree and show you how it's worn. She’ll also help you dress up with an armful of glittering bangles and a matching Bindi in the traditional style, ready for your sunset visit to India’s most iconic landmark – the Taj Mahal. Spend time wandering around one of the Seven Wonders of the World and the pristine grounds, watching the setting sun illuminate the stunning marble mausoleum built by Shah Jahan in his favourite wife’s honour.

Included Activities:

  • Agra - Saree lesson
  • Agra - Taj Mahal

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
12
Day 12: Delhi
This morning there is the opportunity for an optional sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal. Otherwise, you can explore Agra Fort before heading to Sheroes Hangout – a vegetarian cafe for lunch. This beautiful cafe is a one of kind social enterprise providing employment opportunities for women who were the victims of acid attacks. In the early evening leave Agra behind and hop on a high speed train bound for Delhi. Check in to your hotel and perhaps head out for a final farewell dinner with your group.

Included Activities:

  • Agra - Visit & Lunch at Sheroes Cafe

Optional Activities:

  • Agra - Agra Fort Visit - Free

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
13
Day 13: Delhi
Today is your final day in India. There are no included activities planned, so you’re welcome to check out of the hotel any time before midday. If you’re departing later, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel until your flight. If you want to stay an extra couple of days in Delhi, just speak to your booking agent.
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • 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.
Important Information
Meals

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 willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

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.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

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. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

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.

Visas

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.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $2,305
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 13 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Journey between the cities, villages and desert of Rajasthan and gain a unique insight into the lives of Indian women.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 29 Mar 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
4.5
Laura
Traveled, March 2024

04/06/2024

An all round fantastic trip. No hesitation to recommend this trip. Go for it, you will not regret it.

5.0
Stella
Traveled, March 2024

04/05/2024

I would 100% recommend this trip, felt safe at all times, great itinerary and really got to see the real India.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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