Set out to discover Delhi, the capital of India, which consists of two cities: historic Delhi and New Delhi, built by the British in the early 20th century. Explore New Delhi’s lively Paharganj district with a youth guide from the G Adventures-supported City Walk project, and hear about how the program provides opportunities to disadvantaged street youth. Then delve into the narrow, winding lanes of Old Delhi on a rickshaw, visiting the 17th-century Jama Masjid – the largest mosque in India – and the Sikh temple Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Your G for Good Moment: City Walk | 3km
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.
Please note that City Walk is closed on Sundays and holidays and this activity will not run on those days.
Old Delhi Guided Walk (1 hour)
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 Sis Ganj Sahib, which was established in 1783.
Cycle Rickshaw
Keep it clean and green on the busy streets aboard a pedal-powered taxi.
Qutub Minar Visit (1 hour)
Visit Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This tall minaret was built in 1192 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, and is a stunning example of Indo-Islamic Afghan architecture. Walk through the surrounding ruins and check it out for yourself.
Your G for Good Moment: City Walk
Fly to ancient Varanasi, one of Hinduism’s holiest cities, located on the banks of the Ganges River. Sit down at one of the picturesque ghats or steps that run along the river and enjoy a talk by a local scholar about Varanasi’s spiritual and social significance. Later, embark on a boat ride on the sacred Ganges, where more than a million pilgrims come each year to purify themselves and perform funeral rites for loved ones. Observe the evening aarti or prayer ceremony, and join pilgrims as they float candles and flower offerings down the river.
Plane (1.5 hours)
Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s… yup, it is a plane, actually.
Evening Ganges Boat Tour (1–2 hours) | 7km
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.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Ganges River Talk
While in Varanasi, sit down for a talk with a scholar at the picturesque ghats (stairs) of the Ganges. Discuss the river and the spiritual and social role it plays in daily life here.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Ganges River Talk
Rise early to catch the sunrise over the Ganges on a boat cruise, and witness the morning rituals and prayers that take place along the river. This afternoon, visit the Sarnath archaeological site, set in the middle of a vast park, where Gautama Buddha is believed to have delivered his first sermon.
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.
Cycle Rickshaw
Keep it clean and green on the busy streets aboard a pedal-powered taxi.
Morning Ganges Boat Tour (1 hour)
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.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Guided Tour of Sarnath (3 hours)
A day of exploration begins with a tuk-tuk ride from Varanasi towards Sarnath, where your local guide awaits. One of the holiest Buddhist sites in the world, Sarnath is the birthplace of Buddhism where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon. For nearly 1,700 years the site remained a centre for great learning, a place of pilgrimage, and a vihara (monastery) for monks and scholars. Guided by a local expert, discover the archaeological ruins of the monastery, the ancient Dhamek stupa. Explore the museum at Sarnath and the sacred Maha Bodhi Tree. Visit temples constructed by the Buddhist people of Sri Lanka, Thailand and Japan. Stop to admire the Buddha statue located at the Thai Buddha vihara. Some eighty feet tall, it is considered to be the tallest standing Buddha statue at Sarnath. After three hours of guided exploration, your guide will bring you back to your awaiting tuk-tuks bound for your hotel.
Optional activities:
- Heritage and Spiritual Walk in Old Benaras: Set off for an engaging walking tour of Old Varanasi City. Wander through puzzling alleys, vibrant bazaars, explore temples, and gain a deeper understanding of Varanasi’s history, culture and spirituality. The Varanasi Heritage Walk begins from the Godaulia intersection and your first visit is to the Mata Kali Temple, one of the highest revered places of worship in the city. It was built by the Maharaja of Varanasi in 1885 and features carved pillars that capture visitors’ attention. Then you will visit the Ganesh temple before heading to the Tedhi Neem Gali for a walk through the colourful market dotted with many different shops. Afterward, you will go towards the Kashi Vishwanath corridor and witness Varanasi’s principal cremation site – the Manikarnika Ghat. The sacred fire here has been alive for the last 3,000 years. Next, we’ll walk past the Alam Gir mosque, visit the shrine of a Hindu Yogi and mystic Guru Shri Tailang Swami, the Mangla Gauri Temple and the Sankatha Mata Temple. Towards the end of the walk, you will try the famous white-butter toast with tea at Laxmi Chai shop or Dwarika Lassi. During the walk, your guide will focus more on the local life in Varanasi and its philosophical and cultural values. Witness pilgrims singing or chanting and gain an understanding of the importance of Varanasi in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.
Travel to Lucknow, the former capital of the Muslim nawabs of Oudh, who were known as great patrons of art, architecture, dance and music. Explore the imposing Bara Imbambara complex, an 18th-century Shia Muslim shrine which includes a mosque, a grand hall, ornate courtyards and gateways. Then, set out on a food tour of Lucknow with an expert local guide, sampling dishes that were developed for the royal family and delectable street eats – from spicy kebabs to a variety of curries, breads and sweets.
Train (6 hours)
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Lucknow Half-Day Tour (2 hours)
Explore the heritage quarters of this beautiful capital of the central Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Visit the imposing Bara Imambara, walk around Chota Imambara monument, Rumi Darwaza gateway and the Husainibad picture gallery.
Bara Imambara Visit (1–2 hours)
Visit the famous Shia Muslim shrine located in Lucknow. With ornate Mughal architecture, this massive shrine is a striking sight to behold.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Lucknow Local Food Walk
Enjoy a food walk with a local expert guide in the old city. Fast becoming a foodie destination, Lucknow is known for its cuisine and traditional roadside kitchens, serving up what is considered some of the best eats in India. Learn about the traditional techniques of grilling and secret spices, which were historically developed for the royals of Avadh. Watch local chefs, called ‘Bawarchi Tola’, prepare local specialities from their street kitchens and sample some of the best dishes in the region, from sweets to curries, breads and spicy kebabs of all kinds.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Lucknow Local Food Walk
Travel by private bus to Agra, a former capital of the Delhi sultanate as well as the Mughal Empire. Settle into your hotel and spend the evening at leisure.
Private Vehicle (5–6 hours)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
This morning, visit the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Considered the finest example of Mughal architecture, this iconic mausoleum was built by the Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Later, travel to Ranthambore National Park – the fabled wildlife reserve that is said to have inspired Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book.
Taj Mahal Guided Tour (1–3 hours)
Here’s one to cross off your bucket list: a visit to one of the New 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.
Private Vehicle (6–7 hours)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Spend the day exploring Ranthambore National Park, which once served as the private hunting ground of the maharajas of Jaipur. Set out on morning and evening safaris with local rangers in search of monkeys, deer, sloth bears, leopards and, if you’re lucky, the elusive Bengal tiger. Wander amid the ruins of the 10th-century Ranthambore Fort and visit the Trinetra Ganesha Temple, dedicated to the elephant-headed Hindu god Ganesha.
Ranthambore Safari
You have two safari drives today to explore Ranthambore National Park – one in the morning and another in the evening.
Ranthambore Fort Walk and Ganesh Temple (1–2 hours) | 5km
Ranthambore was once the private hunting grounds of the Maharaja of Jaipur, and its rich heritage manifests itself in its many chhatris, forts and hunting lodges that give the park its heritage status. Walk through the ruins of the old fort and visit the Ganesh Temple, a popular spot with locals for worship, dedicated to the elephant-headed Hindu god Ganesh.
After breakfast, drive to Jaipur, the capital of the state of Rajasthan, which boasts beautiful palaces and temples and many atmospheric markets. Upon arrival, visit the Anoothi Project, a collective of women from a marginalised community outside Jaipur who have mastered the traditionally male technique of block-printing. Travellers will engage in a hands-on block-printing experience and spend time with the women leading this experience to speak with them about the purpose of the collective and its impact on the community. While you spend time at Anoothi – which means ‘unique and extraordinary’ in Hindi – indulge in homemade chai and pakoras. Spend the rest of the evening at leisure.
India’s ‘Pink City’, also known as Jaipur, was founded in 1728, and has the distinction of being one of the best-planned pre-modern cities.
Private Vehicle (4–6 hours)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Your G for Good Moment: Anoothi Block-Printing Experience
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.
Your G for Good Moment: Anoothi Block-Printing Experience
Explore Jaipur, known as the ‘Pink City’ for its rose-coloured buildings. Take a tour of the sprawling Amber Fort – the former residence of Jaipur’s Rajput rulers – and optionally visit Hawa Mahal, or the ‘Palace of Winds’, a stunning five-story sandstone building with distinctive honeycombed windows. Discover the rich collections of the City Palace museum and stop by the 18th-century royal observatory known as Jantar Mantar. This evening, enjoy a culinary experience with a local family, including a visit to a market and a cooking demonstration and meal in their home.
Amber Fort Guided Tour
Explore this magnificent fort overlooking an artificial lake, famous for its unique mixture of Hindu and Muslim architecture. The Fort’s sandstone walls are perched on a hill almost blending in with the terrain, besides perfectly reflecting in Maota Lake, creating a mirage effect (and perfect photograph). Wander through the halls, courtyards and palaces inside and admire the intricate details.
City Palace Visit (1 hour)
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.
Jantar Mantar Visit (1–2 hours)
Visit the Jantar Mantar observatory for a guided tour and explore the collection of astronomical instruments housed there, some dating back to 1727.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Family Culinary Experience
Visit the local vegetable and spice market with a local family to learn about popular ingredients in Indian cooking. Return to the family’s home where you will prepare a meal together and discuss the role of spices and base ingredients such as lime, yoghurt and mango in Indian cooking. After, enjoy your dinner with the family.
Optional activities:
- Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) (INR200 per person) (15–30 minutes): Enjoy a visit to the intricately-carved Hawa Mahal, or ‘Palace of the Winds’, which is named for the cool breeze that comes through the structure and keeps it comfortable, even in the hot Jaipur summers. Admire this architectural wonder and snap some photos.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Family Culinary Experience
Travel to the Hindu pilgrimage site of Pushkar, a holy lake ringed by stone ghats, or steps, that lead into its sacred waters. Take an orientation walk along the spectacular lakefront to the 14th-century Brahma Temple. Continue to Dungriya Khurd Village, where you will spend the night in a luxurious resort camp. Glimpse rural Rajasthani life as you chat with villagers as they go about their daily tasks. During an immersive dining experience this evening, sample traditional rural cuisine, learn local customs and gain insights about sociopolitical influences here.
Nestled in the stunning valley of the Aravalli Range, near the edge of the holy town of Pushkar, you stay in cottages which are constructed in the traditional thatched-roof style by local artisans. The camp’s concept is to give customers an experiential understanding of the rural Rajasthan life with all the comfort at the camp resort. Each accommodation has been made using local material, has large windows with veranda and private ensuite. The staff is from the surrounding hamlets and the camp has zero plastic use.
Private Vehicle (2.5–3.5 hours)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Doongariya Khurd Village Experience
Learn about village life, its governance and chat with the local residents as they go about their daily tasks with local experts. Enjoy interaction with the village governing councils and other village elders, learning about the visible societal change and education system in rural India. Also, enjoy an immersive Rajasthani dining experience. Sample and learn about rural cuisine and local specialities, dining customs and etiquette, the proper dress attire and discuss the sociopolitical life of rural India.
Pushkar Orientation Walk (1 hour) | 3km
Join your CEO for an orientation to explore key parts of this desert city, including beautiful lakes and ghats. Visit the famed Brahma temple, meet a local pandit to understand and take part in the ancient rituals.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Doongariya Khurd Village Experience
Today, you make your way to Udaipur, dubbed the ‘City of Lakes’. Take an orientation walk through the timeless streets and bustling bazaars of this romantic city, then hop on a boat to explore Lake Pichola, taking in stunning views of the marble palaces which appear to float above the tranquil waters.
Udaipur is famous for its lakes and Raj-era palaces. The most famous of these, and certainly the most photographed, is the Lake Palace, which you view from the boat. This beautiful white marble palace is now a hotel and entirely covers a small island in Lake Pichola. Originally known as the Jag Niwas, the palace took three years to build and was inaugurated in 1746.
Private Vehicle (4–5 hours)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Pichola Lake Boat Tour (1 hour)
Sit back and relax on this amazing boat tour on Pichola Lake. The views of the city and gorgeous palaces, including City Palace, cannot be beat.
Set out to discover Udaipur, once the capital of a princely state. Visit the exquisite City Palace – the largest palace complex in Rajasthan – to get a glimpse of how the royal family used to live, then step into Jagdish Temple, which pays homage to the Hindu god Vishnu. This evening, stretch out at a relaxing yoga class.
During free time, journey out to the hilltop Monsoon Palace, summer resort of the Maharajas. Sit atop a hill with a panoramic view of the city’s lakes and watch the sunset.
City Palace Visit (1–2 hours)
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.
Plane (1 hour and 15 minutes)
Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s… yup, it is a plane, actually.
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-stone image of Vishnu that’s housed inside the shrine.
Free Time (Afternoon)
Opt to take a boat ride on the lake.
Your Wellness Moment: Yoga Class
Stretch and hold poses in this gentle but effective form of exercise.
Fly to Delhi for your final evening in India and opt to join your group for a farewell dinner.
Plane (1 hour)
Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s… yup, it is a plane, actually.
Free Time (Afternoon)
Opt to join the CEO for a farewell India feast.
Depart at any time.
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.