14-Day North India Tour: Delhi, Varanasi, Taj Mahal, Jaisalmer & Mumbai

Welcome to New Delhi – and the start of 14 days in India! Once checked in, we’ll kick things off in the afternoon with a pre-departure briefing. This is your chance to meet your Adventure Leader and your new travel mates, as well as cover the trip details, health and safety guidance, and everything you need to know to make the most of your journey.

Next up, we’ll dive straight into a fun Hindi language lesson. Your Adventure Leader will teach you some essential phrases that will come in handy throughout the trip – whether it’s connecting with locals, ordering food, or testing out your bargaining skills in the markets.

In the afternoon, we’ll head out together to discover the magic of Old Delhi. This guided walking tour takes you through the buzzing backstreets, colourful markets, and historic temples that make the city so unforgettable. You’ll get a taste of the incredible street food, soak up the lively atmosphere, and see a side of Delhi that most travellers miss. Note: comfortable shoes are a must for this one!

To end the day, you’ll step inside Sis Ganj Sahib Gurudwara, an important Sikh temple in Old Delhi. It’s a serene and spiritual experience that offers a glimpse into one of India’s most welcoming communities – a powerful way to wrap up your first day of adventure.

Day two of your India adventure starts with the chance to join a game of Ultimate Frisbee in the green heart of Lodhi Garden. Jump in, meet some locals, and get moving, or just cheer from the sidelines!

Prefer culture to competition? Opt to head instead to Humayun’s Tomb, a breathtaking UNESCO site that inspired the Taj Mahal itself. This beautiful monument is one of Delhi’s most impressive landmarks and offers a fascinating glimpse into India’s Mughal past.

At lunchtime, the group will head to Khan Market. Think cool cafés, international eats, and boutique shops – perfect for a relaxed lunch and a chance to recharge before the afternoon.

Next stop: Delhi Haat, a buzzing open-air market packed with handicrafts from every corner of India. From colourful textiles to handmade jewellery, it’s the perfect spot to practice your bargaining skills and pick up a unique souvenir (or multiple).

As the sun sets, the group will visit Akshardham Temple. This enormous, intricately carved complex is one of Delhi’s most awe-inspiring sights, blending spiritual calm with jaw-dropping architecture. It’s the perfect way to round off your time in Delhi, before we gather to board an overnight train to Varanasi!

Roll into Varanasi in the morning and hop on private transport straight to the hostel where you’ll have time to chill out, freshen up, and get settled before the adventure continues.

In the afternoon, culture lovers can opt to dive into history at Sarnath, a world-famous Buddhist site layered with Hindu heritage. This is where the Buddha gave his first teachings after enlightenment, and the energy here is truly unforgettable.

As evening falls, get ready for one of Varanasi’s most unforgettable experiences: a boat tour along the Ghats of the Ganges. Drift past the city’s famous riverside steps, watch daily rituals unfold, and feel the intensity of the Burning Ghat. The journey ends with the Ganga Aarti – a mesmerising ceremony of fire, chants, and devotion that lights up the river like nothing else.

Start the morning on the water with an optional Sunrise Boat Tour along the Ganges. Watch the city wake up from the river, soak in the early light, and if you fancy, grab the famous Tulsi Chai or some local street snacks on the way back – the perfect kickstart to the day!

Afterwards, dive into the buzz of Varanasi’s old markets and make your way to the legendary Blue Lassi Shop. Sip their creamy, colourful lassis while soaking up the chaos, colours, and energy of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor – it’s a experience (and taste) you’ll never forget.

In the afternoon, it’s time to trade the river for rails and head to Agra. Depending on availability, you’ll hop on either the afternoon or overnight train. Arrive in Agra ready to check in and recharge, because tomorrow brings one of the world’s most iconic sights.

Start the morning with a walk for breakfast and fuel up at Bread & Mine Café, a cool spot that supports the deaf community – perfect for coffee lovers or anyone who wants a meaningful start to the day.

In the afternoon, there’s an optional tea session with your Adventure Leader, where you can hear inspiring stories about India, ask questions, and, if lucky, meet some locals to hear their perspectives. It’s a relaxed chance to connect, ask questions, and get a real feel for life in India.

Next, enjoy some free time to wander the towering Agra Fort and the elegant Baby Taj at your own pace. After soaking in the history and beauty, regroup with your crew for dinner and drinks at Salt Café, one of Agra’s top spots for great food, good vibes, and the perfect evening ambiance to toast another epic day of adventure.

Rise early for a true bucket-list moment: a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal and one of the seven wonders of the world. There’s nothing like seeing the beautiful marble glow in the first light of the day, and the 20–30 minute walk there lets the city slowly wake around you, building the anticipation for one of the world’s most breathtaking sights.

After soaking in the Taj, hop in your private transfer for the journey to Jaipur. We’ll stop for breakfast along the way, then hit the road for 5-6 hours, with just a couple of short breaks – enough time to stretch, grab a snack, and watch the landscape change as you roll through the heart of India.

Once in Jaipur, check in and get settled at your accommodation, before heading out for our next unmissable experience – a visit to Nahargarh Fort for sunset! Explore the fort’s historic interiors, then climb to the rooftop to enjoy sweeping views of the Pink City glowing in golden light. If you ask us, it’s the perfect way to end a day of stunning views!

Are you an early riser? If so, you might want to start your morning with an optional balloon safari – an incredible opportunity to watch the sun rise as you float over Jaipur. Otherwise, wake up in your own time this morning and grab breakfast, before opting to visit the spectacular Amber Fort, which is built entirely of yellow and pink sandstone.

This afternoon is yours to roam Jaipur at your own pace! You might want to explore the City Palace and the next-door Hawa Mahal, the Jantar Mantar astronomical observatory or get your fill of shopping at the Bapu Bazaar.

Whatever you decide, we’ll regroup for your next unmissable experience – a Food Court Tour that’s a dream for any foodie. This is an incredible opportunity to savour the city’s flavours, tasting local delicacies and discovering Jaipur’s vibrant culinary scene! For the partygoers, finish the day with a night out in Jaipur, whether it’s a lively club or drinks with the group, soaking up the city’s buzzing nightlife!

Another early start, as you’re up with the birds for another amazing activity – a trip to the Monkey Temple! This temple is an incredible site that’s often a Hindu pilgrimage, and features incredible architecture, beautiful landscapes… and monkeys!  

For the rest of the morning, you can either spend it at your resting up, enjoying a local breakfast with your group, exploring the Pink City, or even visiting Patrika Gate – a stunning gateway, famous for its intricate Rajasthani patterns.

This afternoon, we’ll transfer to Jaipur station, bound for the next stop on our India adventure tour: Jaisalmer! 

You’ll arrive in Jaisalmer this morning. You can head to a local hostel for a rest and to grab some breakfast, before opting to join us as we explore the fascinating Jaisalmer Fort. This amazing structure is 250 feet tall in places, and parts of it date back to the mid-1600s! You can then opt to head to a remarkable viewpoint in the local area – Gadsisar Lake!  

It’s a flying visit though, as we’re taking you into the Thar desert for your first Dragon Moment – and arguably, the jewel of your India adventure tour. Transfer by jeep into the desert, where you’ll take part in a camel trek that leads you to the site of your camp. Here, you’ll have dinner al fresco, and set up your comfortable beds, ready for a night sleeping under the stars. 

There’s no escaping the sunrise this morning, as it’ll wake you gently from your spot in the desert. After preparing a breakfast and packing up, you’ll head back to the city, ready to transfer to Jodhpur.  

After your private transfer arrives, you’ll check in to your next hostel and drop your things. We’ll then take you on tour to orientate yourself in the Blue City, where you’ll see landmarks like the Clock Tower and the fascinating Toorji Ka Jhalra – the ancient step well.  

This evening, feel free to join your group near Stepwell for a drink.

Today, get ready to dive into the vibrant flavours of India with a hands-on Indian Cooking Experience – the ultimate Dragon Moment of your tour. Learn to cook local dishes, taste your creations, and pick up skills (and secrets) you can bring home with you.

For the thrill-seekers, there’s the optional Flying Fox Zipline over the city and the fort. Race across six adrenaline-pumping stations, take in epic views from above, and feel the city spread out beneath you!

It’s a day of food, fun, and flying high (literally) – the perfect mix of culture and adventure in Jaipur.

Late morning today, you’ll fly to your next destination on the India adventure tour: Mumbai!

After your flight, your Adventure Leader will whisk you to your accommodation to drop bags, before regrouping for an unmissable tour of Mumbai. Along the way, you’ll explore must-see sites like the Gateway of India and even the sparkling Queen’s Necklace at Marine Drive.

Coming evening, we recommend hitting the Colaba District for dinner, drinks, or a wander through its lively streets. Why not even grab a view of the city from a roof top bar? 

Start the day with an optional Dharavi Slum Tour, a chance to see another side of Mumbai. Far from the stereotypes, Dharavi is full of life, industry, and community – you’ll learn how this bustling area operates as one of Asia’s largest slums and discover the incredible resilience and creativity of its residents.

In the afternoon, head to Dhobi Ghat Mahalaxmi, the world’s largest open-air laundry. Watch as workers wash, beat, and dry clothes using centuries-old techniques – a sight as chaotic as it is fascinating, and one you won’t forget.

Round off the day Bollywood-style with an optional Movie Night. From the vibrant dance numbers to the larger-than-life stories, it’s the perfect way to experience India’s world-famous film culture right where it was born.

Today marks the end of 14 epic days in India, but not before a visit to the famous Siddhivinayak Temple! Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, it’s one of Mumbai’s most iconic temples and a fascinating glimpse into the city’s spiritual heart.

Then you’ll bid farewell to your group, ready to head home!