The Best of India & Bhutan

G Adventures · 13 days

Use code BONUS10 to get an extra 10% off all tours — for a limited time only. T&Cs apply

The Best of India & Bhutan
The Best of India & Bhutan
The Best of India & Bhutan
13 Days
From AUD $5749
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Average

Rating


(3 reviews)

The Best of India & Bhutan

The Best of India & Bhutan

G Adventures · 13 days
4.7
3 Reviews

Use code BONUS10 to get an extra 10% off all tours — for a limited time only. T&Cs apply

Duration

13 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Budget

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

From India’s vibrant cities to the happiest country on Earth, this 13-day trip through India and Bhutan knows how to pack in the best of the best.

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
  • Sustainable Development Fees
  • Agra Fort visit
  • Taj Mahal visit
  • I'timad-ud-daulah (Baby Taj) entrance
  • Fatephur Sikri visit
  • Jaipur City Palace entrance and guided tours
  • Abhaneri stepwell visit
  • Memorial Chorten & Motithang Takin Preserve visit
  • Chimi Lakhang Hike
  • Explore Paro Dzong and Archery grounds
  • Free time in Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro
  • Hike to Taktsang Monastery Tiger's Nest
  • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodation

  • Hotels/guesthouses (11 nts), comfortable tented camp (1 nt).
  • 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners

Transport

  • Private vehicle, taxis, auto-rickshaw, cycle-rickshaw, 4x4, walking.

Group Leader

  • CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.

Highlights

  • Explore the modern and ancient sides of Delhi
  • Bask in the magnificent of the Taj Mahal
  • Visit various dzongs and Buddhist gompas in Bhutan
  • Experience the Dragon Kingdom with cultural interactions at a local farm
  • Take in the views of the stunning Himalayans.
The Best of India & Bhutan

Trip Details

Duration

13 days

Transportation

Private vehicle, taxis, auto-rickshaw, cycle-rickshaw, 4x4, walking.

Guide Language

English

Starts

Delhi, India

Finishes

Paro, Bhutan

Accommodations

Budget

Travel Style

Classic, Budget

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

1

Day 1: Delhi

Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included through the G Adventures-supported Women With Wheels project.
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 - Welcome: Welcome-Moment – Lerne CEO und Gruppe kennen.Accommodation - Hotel Jeyan Inn
2

Day 2: Delhi/Āgra

Enjoy a youth-led walk through the backstreets of Delhi with G Adventures-supported project, City Walk. Observe a different perspective of Delhi while supporting at-risk youth in the community. Later, explore Old Delhi and travel onward to Agra, home of the Taj Mahal.


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 - Visit historic Old Delhi. Explore Jama Masjid, the "Great Mosque," and enjoy its massive courtyard, which can hold up to 25,000 worshippers. Also, visit the ancient Sikh temple of Gurdwara SisGanj, which was established in 1783.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Light House Agra
3

Day 3: Āgra

Set eyes on the sparkling Taj Mahal at sunrise before exploring more of this famous landmark. In the afternoon, visit the I'timad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj) and the Agra Fort.


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 - 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. Activity - Enjoy a visit to this impressive Mughal fort made of red sandstone and white marble.Accommodation - Light House Agra
4

Day 4: Āgra/Dhula Village

Stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the now-deserted former capital of the Mughals, and a stunningly preserved UNESCO site. Visit the Abhaneri Stepwell and marvel at this uniquely Indian water harvesting system. In the afternoon, travel to Dhula Village and get a closer look at rural life in Rajasthan. Tonight, settle in to your cozy tent then opt to relax by the fire and take in the starry night sky.
At Dhula Village you will have the opportunity to learn about local life, play a fun game of cricket, relax in the peaceful atmosphere, or take a cycle to explore the surroundings.

Tonight's accommodation is in spacious and comfortable tents outfitted with beds, lamps, and simple en suite bathrooms.


Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Explore the magnificent red sandstone fort city that was once the capital of India's Mughal Empire and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Keep an eye out for elements of different religions, as King Akbar built three palaces for each of his favourite wives—a Hindu, a Muslim, and a Christian—in the city.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.Activity - Get a closer look at village life with a stay in rural Dhula. Enjoy opportunities to interact and explore that may include meeting shepherds and their flocks, cycling through hamlets, tea with villagers at the local temple, trekking in the hillocks. Accommodation - Camp Dhula Bagh
5

Day 5: Dhula Village/Jaipur

Continue to the pink city of Jaipur. Along the way, try your hand at block printing with the women of the Anoothi Project before arriving at your hotel. Built according to Hindu architectural principles, Jaipur utilizes a unique organization unlike anywhere else in India.


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.Activity - Enjoy an orientation of the Pink City by foot, with a short e-rickshaw ride in the walled city.Accommodation - Utsav Niwas
6

Day 6: Jaipur

Enjoy a visit to the Amber Fort, famous for its mixture of Hindu and Muslim architecture. After, visit the City Palace and have a photo opportunity at Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds).
Opt to get active by pre-booking a cycle tour or sharpen your culinary skills by pre-booking a cooking class with a local family.


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.Activity - Explore the courtyards, gardens, and buildings that make up the City Palace. Located in the heart of the Old City, it is a striking blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture. Visit the palace's museum to look at ancient carriages and the former maharaja's gold-embroidered wedding outfit. Accommodation - Utsav Niwas
7

Day 7: Jaipur/Delhi

If you aren't afraid of heights, opt for a morning hot air balloon ride over Jaipur. Return to Delhi in the afternoon and enjoy free time to explore more of the bustling city.
Admire the Pink City from above by pre-booking the morning Jaipur Balloon Ride when booking your tour.


Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Free_time - Enjoy free time to see more of Delhi.Accommodation - Hotel Jeyan Inn
8

Day 8: Delhi to Thimphu

Today the group will travel from Delhi to Paro. After arriving at Paro Airport we will transfer to our accommodation in Thimphu a little over an hour away. This evening you will have free time to become acquainted with the capital of the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan.


Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Sit back, relax, and enjoy the flight from Delhi to Paro.Transport - On arrival, take a private transfer to Thimphu.Free_time - Enjoy a free evening in Thimphu. Maybe opt to gather for a group dinner.Accommodation - Hotel Damisa Bhutan
9

Day 9: Thimphu

Visit the National Memorial Chorten, the Buddha Point, and Motithang Takin Preserve. In the evening, visit Tashichho Dzong.
In the evening, visit the Tashi Chhoedzong, known as the "Fortress of Glorious Religion", initially built in 1702. Today, it houses the main secretariat building, the central monk body, and the office of the king.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - The chorten is one of the most prominent religious structures in Thimphu, and for local Bhutanese it is a popular part of their daily prayers. Watch locals walk around the Chorten, spinning the prayer wheels and meditating in this lovely and peaceful spot.Activity - Thimphu is the capital of the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan. It is also Bhutan's largest city and displays loads of traditional Bhutanese art, architecture, and culture. It's a modern city with unique character. You'll see the old and the new blend together here as you walk the streets lines with restaurants and cafes that sit alongside old fortresses and monasteries. Did you know that Thimphu is the only capital city in the world without any traffic lights? Get to know the area on an orientation experience visiting sites like the textile museum and old clock tower.Activity - Enjoy a visit to the Motithang Takin Preserve, which was once a mini zoo. The area was converted into a preserve for Bhutan's national animal, the takin, which is a cross between a goat and an antelope. Activity - Enjoy a visit to Tashichho Dzong, a Buddhist monastery and fortress. Its main building is typical of Bhutanese architecture, with whitewashed walls and a golden roof. The original structure was built in 1216 and now houses the civil government.Activity - Buddha Point is home to Thimphu’s most recognized landmark, the Buddha Dordenma. Guarding the entry to the Thimphu valley, this 51-meter (167ft) gilded bronze statue is filled with 125,000 miniature statues and sits atop a three-storey base housing a chapel and thousands of donated statuettes. The statue was commissioned to mark His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck’s 60th birthday and was originally made in China before being transported to Thimphu in pieces. The massive Buddha statue in Thimphu made of bronze and gold. Take lots of pictures - it's beautiful!Accommodation - Hotel Damisa Bhutan
10

Day 10: Thimphu/Punākha

Travel to Punakha in the morning crossing Dochula Pass. After a pleasant stop for views enjoy a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang Temple learning about its historical significance. In the afternoon explore the stunning Punakha Dzong.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Take a short hike to Chime Lhakhang, temple of the “Divine Madman." Built in 1499, it is mainly visited today by women as it is known as the temple of fertility.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Visit Punakha Dzong, the winter seat of the Je Khenpo and the Monk Body, remarkably located between the rivers of the Mo (female) Chu and Pho (male) Chu. It is the second oldest and second largest dzong (fortress) in Bhutan and one of its most majestic structures, housing many sacred relics. It is also the winter capital of the Je Khenpo (chief abbot). Built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in around 1637. Arguably, it is the most beautiful Dzong in the country. The Dzong guards Bhutan’s most treasured relic, the Rangjung Kharsapani, an image of Chenresig kept away from the public in the utse (tower). It has survived Tibetan invasions, numerous fires, floods and a glacial lake burst. The Dzong served as the capital and seat of the Bhutanese Government until the early 1950s; and the coronation of the His Majesty the First Druk, Gyalpo Ugyen Wangchuck, took place here.Accommodation - Hotel River Valley
11

Day 11: Punākha/Paro

Take a scenic drive back to Paro this morning with a few stops en route. Upon arrival the group will visit the Paro Dzong as well as the local archery grounds. This evening you'll have free time to wander and indulge as you please.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Paro lies at the centre of a valley that is full of ancient sites and buildings. The area is covered with terraced paddy fields, quaint farmhouses scattered throughout the valley and green forests overlooking the Paro Chhu River snaking below. Enjoy an orientation walk of this beautiful place and learn about Bhutanese ancient artefacts and art work.Activity - Visit Paro Rinpung Dzong, which means ‘Fortress on a Heap of Jewels”. The original construction of this dzong is believed to have been completed in 1458 and it was restored to its present glory by His Majesty the Third of Bhutan, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, to mark his royal wedding in 1951.Activity - As Bhutan's national sport, a visit to a local archery ground is a must. Watch locals practice or compete with unbelievable accuracy and precision as they hit distant targets. Free_time - Take advantage of free time and visit some of the best sites in Paro like, the ruins of the Drukgyel Dzong or Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the two oldest monasteries in Bhutan. Maybe head for a visit to the National Museum of Bhutan. There are statues, paintings, sacred masks and costumes all located in a seven-story watchtower.Accommodation - Rema Resort
12

Day 12: Paro

Enjoy a morning hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest). The hike is about 7km and offers a chance to visit 13 holy relics, at a place considered to be one of the most venerated pilgrim sites of the Himalayan world. After finishing the hike you'll have the rest of the evening free to explore more of Paro on your own before one last dinner with the group.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Hike up to the Taktsang monastery (Tiger’s Nest); containing 13 holy relics, it's considered one of the most venerated pilgrim sites of the Himalayan world. It is also where Guru Padmasambhava is said to have landed on the back of a tigress in the 8th century. Take in the stunning views en route and the incredible vista from this monastery, which clings to the rock towering 2,953m above the valley. The group will hike from 2400m elevation and reach 3100m at the Taktsang Monastery before returning back to 2400m in the same day. The climb should take around 6 hours for a total distance of 7 km.Free_time - Take advantage of free time and visit some of the best sites in Paro like, the ruins of the Drukgyel Dzong or Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the two oldest monasteries in Bhutan. Maybe head for a visit to the National Museum of Bhutan. There are statues, paintings, sacred masks and costumes all located in a seven-story watchtower.Accommodation - Rema Resort
13

Day 13: Paro

Depart at any time. Airport transfer included. While at the airport, opt to experience a cultural art class at the social enterprise, VAST, a G Adventures-supported studio.
Your CEO will help arrange your transfer to the airport and all exit formalities before your journey home.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Exclusions
  • 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.
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 will do 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.

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 $5,749
(Tour only)
Per Person Standard

Duration: 13 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

From India’s vibrant cities to the happiest country on Earth, this 13-day trip through India and Bhutan knows how to pack in the best of the best.

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 03 May 2026

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
Joanna L.
Traveled, May 2024

06/10/2024

I fell in love with India and the vibrancy of the country. I then followed this with my dream destination - Bhutan - which lived up to all that was was anticipating.

5.0
Alicia L.
Traveled, September 2024

09/13/2024

I am very grateful for all the dynamic experiences these tours provided.

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