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Northern India & Rajasthan to Goa by Rail
20 days, Delhi to Goa
Itinerary Notes
Want to experience the sights and sounds of Holi? Make sure you’re in India on March 10, 2020 or March 29, 2021 for the nation’s most colourful festival.
Itinerary
Day 1Delhi
Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included through the G Adventures-supported Women With Wheels project.
There are no planned activities until an evening welcome meeting.
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
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.
Your G for Good Moment: Women With Wheels Transfer
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.
Day 2Delhi/Amritsar
Take the morning Shatabdi Express to Amritsar and enjoy breakfast on board. In the afternoon, drive to the India-Pakistan border and witness the border ceremony performed by both nations border guards. Later in the evening visit the grounds surrounding the Golden Temple and take an orientation walk of Amritsar.
Amritsar which literally translates as "his pool of nectar", is a flourishing city and religious centre in the state of Punjab. Important from a religious point of view to the Sikh religion, with many pilgrims coming to have a divine bath in the pool of nectar at the Golden Temple. Also an important political city where in 1947 the separation of India and Pakistan created a long white line known as the Wagah Border between the two neighbours.
Train
Train cars offer rows of 3 and 3 reclining seats for the evening ride.
Wagah Border Ceremony
Every evening, hundreds of people gather to watch the famous parade and the ceremonial lowering of their national flags by the Indian and Pakistani armies at sunset. Witness this event in the stands and cheer on as the two countries showcase their cooperation.
Golden Temple Visit
Enjoy a visit to this gorgeous temple, the most sacred shrine in the Sikh religion. Sitting in the center of a sacred lake, and accessible by a marble causeway, it is absolutely stunning. Watch the nightly ritual of moving the Guru Granth Sahib (holy book) from the temple to the neighboring Akal Takht building in a gold palki (palanquin) preceded by the spectacular fanfare of religious leaders blowing long horns or beating drums. As the procession moves, people chanting wait for their chance to shoulder the sacred palki.
The Golden Temple kitchen serves a free meal called a "langar" to more than 40,000 visitors daily, and no matter how old or young, whether rich or poor, everyone eats together while sitting on the floor.
Orientation With CEO
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 3Amritsar/Dharamshala
In the morning visit and explore the Golden Temple and learn about the community service principles of the Sikh Religion. Later, embark on a scenic drive to Dharamshala and take an orientation walk in the evening.
Travel along Himalayan mountain roads to the famous seat of the home of the Dalai Lama. "Dharamshala" translates to "a spiritual dwelling" or loosely, shelter or rest house for pilgrims and travellers. It is a beautiful former British hill station situated in the snow-capped mountains of Himachal Pradesh, in the foothills of the Dhauladar ranges. The city is divided into lower and upper Dharamshala according to the altitude. A popular pilgrimage site, the town is filled with temples, markets, galleries and gathering places.
Golden Temple Visit
Enjoy a visit to this gorgeous temple, the most sacred shrine in the Sikh religion. Sitting in the center of a sacred lake, and accessible by a marble causeway, it is absolutely stunning. Watch the nightly ritual of moving the Guru Granth Sahib (holy book) from the temple to the neighboring Akal Takht building in a gold palki (palanquin) preceded by the spectacular fanfare of religious leaders blowing long horns or beating drums. As the procession moves, people chanting wait for their chance to shoulder the sacred palki.
The Golden Temple kitchen serves a free meal called a "langar" to more than 40,000 visitors daily, and no matter how old or young, whether rich or poor, everyone eats together while sitting on the floor.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Orientation With CEO
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Day 4Dharamshala
Enjoy free time to explore Dharamsala. Visit the Main Temple and current residence of Dalai Lama or take a tour of the Norbulingka institute dedicated to preserving the Tibetan culture. Feeling more adventurous? Choose to embark on a short hike to Bhagsunag.
There are lots of ways to spend free time in this charming place. Visit the Kangra Art Museum in the Kotwali bazaar, or take in a performance of the Tibetan folk opera 'Lhamo' at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts.
Opt to visit Norbulingka. Set amidst beautiful gardens, surrounded by the green fields of the Kangra Valley, the Norbulingka Institute stands against a backdrop of the towering Dhauladhar mountains of the outer Himalayan range.
Free Time
Get out and explore this charming place. Visit a museum, bargain in a bazaar, or learn more about Tibetan culture.
Dalai Lama Temple
The Dalai Lama Temple Complex (also known as Tsuglakhang Temple) is a beautiful and peaceful place located in Upper Dharamshala. Decorated with the colourful prayer flags, prayer wheels and art works, it's perfect for long serene walks, reflection or meditation with chanting monks.
Optional Activities - Day 4 HideShow
Bhagsunath Temple Excursion
Hike to Bhagsunag temple, a sacred place for Hindus and the Gorkha
community where worshippers pray to Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction. There are two pools in the temple complex that are believed to have healing properties. This ancient Shiva Temple is
connected to a mythological legend and is believed to have been built by King Bhagsu.
Kangra Art Museum Visit
This hidden gem of a museum in Kotwali bazaar boasts a collection of artifacts dating back to 5th century, which display the rich past of the Kangra Valley. It includes a gallery of Kangra's famous miniature paintings, sculptures, pottery, and anthropological items.
Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts Show
Take in a performance of "Lhamo," a colourful and unique folk opera from Tibet, at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts. It's well worth it.
Norbulingka Institute Visit
Explore a treasure trove of Tibetan culture in exile at the Norbulingka Institute. Many books, precious statues, and monasteries in Tibet were destroyed following the Chinese invasion in 1950, making the Norbulingka Institute one of the best places to learn about Tibetan culture and art anywhere in the world.
Day 5Dharamshala/Māndi
Explore the town of Mandi. Walk around Rewalsar Lake, a sacred spot for Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists. Renowned for its ancient stone temples with fine carvings, Mandi is also known as the "Varanasi of the Hills".
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Rewalsar Lake Orientation Walk
Take a CEO-led walk around Rewalsar Lake, a sacred spot for Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists.
Day 6Mandi/Shimla
Embark onto the next destination, Shimla, the capital of Himachal province. This was once the British summer capital during the Raj Era. View the colonial era architecture still prominent throughout this city.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 7Shimla
Enjoy a CEO-led orientation walk on The Ridge and The Mall (local hangouts) and explore this summer capital of British India. Opt to visit the Viceregal Lodge or admire the neo-Gothic or Tudorbethan architecture of the heritage buildings.
The Ridge and The Mall Orientation Walk
Every orientation walk will take a slightly different route to allow our CEOs to show off their favourite spots in this cool, comfortable, and charming town. Visit the Ridge and the Mall neighbourhoods and learn about everyday life in Shimla.
Free Time
Explore more of Shimla with some free time.
Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow
Viceregal Lodge (Rashtrapati Niwas) Visit
50INR per personEnjoy a visit to this former residence of the British Viceroy of India and learn about the reign of the British Raj in India. The Viceregal Lodge houses a collection of articles and photographs dating back to the time of British rule.
Day 8Shimla/Delhi
Take the World Heritage-listed toy train from Shimla to Kalka. Switch to the Shatabdi Express for the rest of the journey back to Delhi, with dinner included on board.
Take the World Heritage-listed toy train from Shimla to Kalka. Over the course of 3 hrs, the train winds through tunnels as you head out of the mountains of Shimla.
Toy Train
Climb aboard and grab a seat aboard this charming narrow-gauge train.
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Meals included:
DinnerDay 9Delhi
Enjoy a free day in Delhi.
Free Time
Head out and explore this lively capital city.
Optional Activities - Day 9 HideShow
Optional Welcome Meeting for Travellers on Combos
You may be a seasoned pro at group travel by now, but there will likely be some new travellers joining the group. Sit in on the welcome meeting to meet the newest members of your group and learn about the next leg of your tour.
Day 10Delhi/Āgra
Take the Shatabdi Express train to Agra, with breakfast served on board. Enjoy a guided tour of the impressive Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Time permitting, opt to visit the Baby Taj.
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Taj Mahal Guided Tour
Here's one to cross off your bucket list: a visit to one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Take a guided tour of India's most famous landmark and an icon of Mughal architecture. Built by the emperor Shah Jahan as a testament of his love to his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, this stunning white marble structure draws visitors from all over the world.
Agra Fort Guided Tour
Enjoy a guided tour of this palatial Mughal fort made of red sandstone and white marble. One of the most important battles of the Indian rebellion of 1857 happened at this fort, which caused the end of the British East India Company's rule in India.
Optional Activities - Day 10 HideShow
Baby Taj Visit
310INR per personVisit 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.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 11Āgra/Jaipur
Hop on a Shatabdi Express train in the evening to Jaipur.
Free Time
Get out and see more of this historic city filled with architectural marvels.
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Day 12Jaipur
Take an orientation walk around town. Take a photo of the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) and visit the Amber Fort. Walk around the Old City and markets and opt to visit the City Palace. With free time, wander the Jantar Mantar or check out a Bollywood film at the spectacular Art Deco film house, the Raj Mandir.
Orientation Walk
Head to the markets of this "Pink City," the capital of Rajasthan, and one of the most important heritage cities in India on this CEO-led orientation walk.
Amber Fort Visit
Take in the Hindu and Muslim architecture of the beautiful Amber Fort. Wander through the halls and courtyards and admire the intricate details.
Optional Activities - Day 12 HideShow
Movie at Raj Mandir
200-400INR per personVisit this spectacular cinema and watch a song-and-dance Bollywood film.
Jantar Mantar Visit
202INR per personVisit the Jantar Mantar observatory for a guided tour and explore the collection of astronomical instruments housed there, some dating back to 1727.
Jaipur Balloon Ride
Begin your day at dawn, just as the sun starts to rise. As you drift into the sky, enjoy the silence and serenity of the morning, watching as the day starts for the colourfully dressed inhabitants below. From high in the sky, you may float over rolling hills, villages teeming with life, and a small monastery. You may even spot elephants—if luck is on your side.
Available September 1 - April 30.
Day 13Jaipur/Udaipur
In the morning board a train and soak in the passing scenery en route to Udaipur. Arrive in the evening with free time to explore the city.
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Free Time
Stretch your legs and explore Udaipur with a free evening.
Day 14Udaipur
Enjoy an orientation walk, including a visit to the Jagdish Temple and the City Palace, one of the largest royal palaces in India. Attend a Rajasthani cultural show on Gangaur Ghat.
Discover the early morning serenity of the city by pre-booking the Udaipur Sunrise Cycle tour extra, or opt to sharpen your culinary skills by pre-booking the Udaipur Cooking School extra.
Udaipur Orientation Walk
Go on a guided orientation walk and get to know local markets and key places.
Jagdish Temple Visit
Visit the intricately-carved Jagdish Temple, which pays homage to Vishnu, the Hindu god of preservation. Make sure to take a peek at the black stoned image of Vishnu that's housed inside the shrine.
City Palace Visit
Visit Rajasthan's largest palace to get a sense of how royalty lived. Take in the view from one of its many intricately-decorated balconies, with one side facing the stunning Lake Palace.
Rajasthani Cultural Show
Enjoy an evening cultural show that includes traditional music and dancing from the state of Rajasthan.
Optional Activities - Day 14 HideShow
Monsoon Palace Visit
505INR per personHop in an auto rickshaw and head outside of Udaipur to the stunning Monsoon Palace, perched high above town. Enjoy sweeping views of the city and surrounding lakes and countryside. Consider visiting at sunset for an unforgettable view.
Udaipur Sunrise Cycle Tour
Discover the early morning serenity of Udaipur with a ride along the city's picturesque lakes as the sun rises. Embark in the village of Kalarohu, travelling towards Fateh Sagar Lake to observe the lake's three islands as the birds flock to the tranquil waters. Cycle past agricultural workers in action in the lush farming communities of Badi and Hawala before making a loop around the hilltop palatial residence, Monsoon Palace. Travel on through more villages to reach Tiger Lake, this morning's setting for a picnic breakfast. The tour offers ample opportunities for photographs and to learn more about Indian history so don't forget your camera! The journey concludes with a downhill ride towards our finishing point.
Udaipur Cooking School
This your chance to learn from the locals how to make authentic Rajasthani dishes. Start the class with a warming cup of masala chai as your hosts introduce you to the range of ingredients and spices that will formulate your lunch menu. Watch as they demonstrate how to make rice, curries, and chapatis or opt to get hands-on and join them in cooking up these tasty dishes. Tuck in and enjoy your creations for lunch.
Day 15Udaipur/Būndi
Take a train to Bundi to explore the fort and stepwells.
Opt for a sunrise bicycle tour of Udaipur before the train to Bundi this afternoon.
There is no shortage of notable architecture in Bundi. From palaces to baoris, otherwise known as stepwell reservoirs, explore the many man-made marvels of Bundi.
Bundi Fort and Stepwells Visit
Bundi is well-known for its ornate forts and stepwells. The fort was constructed in AD 1354 and overlooks the city, making it a popular lookout point for visitors. The stepwell here is intricately carved and over 45m (148ft) deep. Built in 1699, it is one of the largest stepwells in Rajasthan.
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Optional Activities - Day 15 HideShow
Udaipur Sunrise Cycle Tour
Discover the early morning serenity of Udaipur with a ride along the city's picturesque lakes as the sun rises. Embark in the village of Kalarohu, travelling towards Fateh Sagar Lake to observe the lake's three islands as the birds flock to the tranquil waters. Cycle past agricultural workers in action in the lush farming communities of Badi and Hawala before making a loop around the hilltop palatial residence, Monsoon Palace. Travel on through more villages to reach Tiger Lake, this morning's setting for a picnic breakfast. The tour offers ample opportunities for photographs and to learn more about Indian history so don't forget your camera! The journey concludes with a downhill ride towards our finishing point.
Day 16Būndi/Mumbai
Explore Bundi with some free time before an overnight trip on the Mumbai Rajdhani Express train, with dinner on board.
Free Time
Get outside and discover more of Bundi.
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Basic Overnight Train (beds)
Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.
Meals included:
DinnerDay 17Mumbai
Arrive in the morning in bustling Mumbai, home to 20 million people. Take a walking tour of the Colaba area and see the Gateway of India.
Free Time
Explore the cafes and charming colonial architecture in this sprawling city.
Colaba Walking Tour
Walk through the charming Colaba neighbourhood of Mumbai, visiting some highlights along the way. Enjoy the architecturally splendid Gateway of India, magnificent colonial buildings, charming cafes, and high-end boutiques.
Gateway of India Visit
Enjoy a visit architecturally splendid arch, popular with tourists from India and around the world, was built during the British rule and offers amazing views of the Arabian Sea, with boats bobbing in the water close to it.
Day 18Mumbai/Goa
Catch a morning flight to beautiful Goa. Spend free time relaxing on the beach or exploring the city's monuments.
Opt to visit the many Portuguese-built monuments, wander around the churches of Old Goa (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), or discover Panjim, the capital of the state. Don't forget to indulge in Goan cuisine.
Free Time
Don't waste a minute -- start exploring this charming piece of paradise.
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Optional Activities - Day 18 HideShow
Goa Beach Visit
FreeRelax on some soft, white sand -- Goa's beaches are famous the world over for good reason. Hydrate with a smoothie or fresh coconut water.
Old Goa Visit
1600INR per groupExplore the rich history and impressive architecture of Old Goa, the former colonial capital of the state. The convents and churches are stunning, and the area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which contains the relics of St Francis Xavier.
Panjim Visit
Walk through the Latin Quarter or by the river of this charming capital city. Take a short boat ride, visit a casino, or just relax and take in the chilled out vibe. Don't forget to eat some delicious Goan food, but watch out -- it can be spicy.
Day 19Goa
Enjoy a free day in Goa.
With free time in Goa, opt to explore the city and learn about it's ancient Portuguese colony, visit a market, or relax on the beach.
Free Time
See more of the lakes and palaces in this beautiful city.
Optional Activities - Day 19 HideShow
Goa Beach Visit
FreeRelax on some soft, white sand -- Goa's beaches are famous the world over for good reason. Hydrate with a smoothie or fresh coconut water.
Old Goa Visit
1600INR per groupExplore the rich history and impressive architecture of Old Goa, the former colonial capital of the state. The convents and churches are stunning, and the area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which contains the relics of St Francis Xavier.
Panjim Visit
Walk through the Latin Quarter or by the river of this charming capital city. Take a short boat ride, visit a casino, or just relax and take in the chilled out vibe. Don't forget to eat some delicious Goan food, but watch out -- it can be spicy.
Day 20Goa
Depart at any time.