Classic India Loop - 12 Days

Once you have arrived in Delhi, you will be transferred to your hotel in the city centre, where you can settle in and meet your group leader. Delhi has been shaped by centuries of different dynasties, giving it a character that blends historic monuments with a fast-paced modern outlook.

This evening, we gather for our welcome dinner, our first chance to enjoy the distinctive flavours of Indian cuisine.

After breakfast, we make our way by metro to Jama Masjid, the oldest mosque in Delhi and a key monument of the Mughal period.

We then explore the lanes of Old Delhi on foot, tasting street favourites such as Bedmi Poori, jalebi and paratha, with time to enjoy a cup of chai. A rickshaw ride through the lively streets of Chandni Chowk brings us to Khari Baoli, the largest spice market in Asia.

Later, we visit a Sikh temple for a vegetarian lunch and watch its community kitchen in action, a remarkable operation that serves thousands every day.

In the evening, we come together again for a Mughlai dinner at a local restaurant.

Delhi - Agra. This morning, we take a train to Agra, travelling through the plains of northern India as we leave Delhi behind. Agra has long been at the heart of Mughal history and remains one of the most significant heritage cities in the country.

In the afternoon, we visit the Taj Mahal, followed by time to explore the halls, mosques and sweeping views of Agra Fort.

In the evening, we dine at Sheroes Hangout, a vegetarian cafe run by acid attack survivors whose work supports confidence, community and long term empowerment.

Agra - Jaipur. Early today, we return to the Taj Mahal to experience it in the quiet light of dawn, a time when the crowds are smaller, and the atmosphere feels especially peaceful. As we explore the complex, we learn more about the details and symbolism that make this monument one of the most remarkable achievements of the Mughal era.

Later, we travel to Jaipur, known as the pink city for the warm colour of its historic buildings, and settle in as we begin to discover another side of Rajasthan.

This evening, we watch a Bollywood movie in one of the city’s grand cinemas, enjoying the full experience in the setting it was designed for.

After breakfast, we join our leader for an orientation walk through the old city, visiting the local market as we hear how Jaipur came to be known as the pink city. Along the way we meet market traders and learn more about the spices that play such an important role in Indian cooking.

Next, we travel by tuk tuk to Galta Ji, often called the monkey temple, a complex set into the hillside that is home to large groups of resident monkeys.

You then have the rest of the day free to continue exploring Jaipur, whether you choose to visit more of its landmarks, wander through the bazaars or simply relax at your own pace.

Jaipur - Pushkar. This morning, we travel by private vehicle to Pushkar, regarded as one of the holiest towns in India. The town is an important pilgrimage centre, clustered around a sacred lake and numerous temples.

Pushkar has a relaxed, small-town feel, with lively markets, plenty of places to eat, and views of the surrounding countryside that make it popular with both pilgrims and travellers.

In the afternoon, we meet a local Brahmin by the waters of Pushkar’s main lake, where we receive a blessing that introduces us to the town’s spiritual traditions. Afterwards, we pause for a drink at a lakeside cafe before returning to our accommodation for the evening.

Pushkar - Ajmer - Udaipur. We depart from Pushkar and travel to Ajmer, where we board the train to Udaipur, often called the white city and known for its lakes, palaces and elegant old town.

On arrival, we take an orientation walk through the markets and winding streets, a great way to experience the calmer pace that sets Udaipur apart. Later, we enjoy a private sunset cruise on the lake, with the city’s whitewashed buildings reflected in the evening light.

After the cruise we make our way to one of our favourite rooftop restaurants for dinner, with views across the water to end the day.

This morning we explore Udaipur, the city of lakes, known for its palaces, temples and traditional havelis along the edge of Lake Pichola. Our leader guides us through the narrow streets and colourful craft shops, finishing at the intricately carved Jagdish Temple.

You have the afternoon free to continue discovering Udaipur at your own pace. You may choose to visit one of the lakeside palaces, browse local boutiques or simply relax by the water.

In the evening, we join a local family for a hands-on cooking class, preparing a traditional vegetarian north Indian thali before sitting down to enjoy the meal together.

Udaipur - Jodhpur. We depart by bus to Jodhpur, known as the blue city for the colour that covers many of its old town buildings. On arrival, we transfer to our traditional haveli accommodation, set within the maze of narrow streets that sit beneath the towering Mehrangarh Fort.

In the late afternoon, we explore the blue city on foot, taking in its winding lanes before pausing at the Jodhpur step well, an impressive feat of historic stonework. We continue through the area around the clock tower market, where we try local favourites such as saffron lassi and freshly made samosas.

We then return to our haveli to relax for the evening.

Today, you have the morning free to relax after yesterday’s journey. During this time, you can choose to explore more of the blue city, join a rooftop yoga class or even try ziplining across the ramparts of Jodhpur Fort.

In the early afternoon, we meet as a group and walk to Mehrangarh Fort with our local guide. Together we explore the beautifully maintained complex, and with the help of an audio guide, gain a clear insight into the lives of the region’s former rulers.

Afterwards, you return to the hotel to freshen up before your transfer to the railway station for your overnight train to Delhi.

Jodhpur - Delhi. After breakfast, you will be transferred from the train station to your final hotel in Delhi. You then have the afternoon free to spend as you wish, whether you choose to relax, explore nearby markets or revisit a favourite spot in the city.

In the evening, we gather for our final dinner in India, a chance to share stories and enjoy one last meal together with our group.

Our journey comes to an end this morning, once you have checked out. Safe travels!