Northern India on a Budget: The Golden Triangle to Varanasi - 9 Days



Who is this trip for
Age range
18 - 39Start / End
- New Delhi
- Varanasi
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 18Meals included
0Highlights
- Delhi's Vibrant Embrace: Dive headfirst into India's pulsating capital with an orientation walk through iconic Connaught Place and India Gate, culminating in the electrifying Karol Bagh market for a truly immersive first night.
- Pushkar's Sacred Oasis: Discover the spiritual heart of Pushkar, a 'king of pilgrim centres,' exploring its holy lake, ghats, and the world's only Brahma temple. For an unforgettable evening, opt for a traditional desert dinner cooked by cameleers with live entertainment.
- Jaipur, The Pink City's Grandeur: Be captivated by the 'Pink City' of Jaipur. Marvel at the intricate facade of Hawa Mahal, the 'Palace of the Winds,' and immerse yourself in vibrant market stalls, with options to explore grand palaces or even take a breathtaking hot air balloon ride.
- Agra and the Enduring Love Story of the Taj Mahal: Witness the breathtaking splendor of the Taj Mahal, India's most iconic landmark, on a guided tour. Delve into its poignant history and Mughal architecture, with opportunities to explore the impressive Agra Fort.
- Varanasi's Spiritual Heartbeat: Experience the profound spirituality of Varanasi, one of the world's oldest living cities. Take a serene orientation walk along the revered Ganges River ghats and through the labyrinthine old city, soaking in its unique, sacred atmosphere.
- Authentic Indian Journeys by Rail: Traverse the diverse landscapes of Northern India by train, an adventure in itself, connecting bustling metropolises to serene pilgrim towns, embracing the true rhythm of local life, including an exciting overnight sleeper train experience.
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Summary
Temples, tuk-tuks, and the Taj — oh my! This nine-day adventure through India brings your bucket list to life without breaking the bank. Cruise the sacred Ganges in Varanasi, wander the halls of Agra Fort, and snap that iconic shot of the Taj Mahal. With plenty of free time in Jaipur, Agra, and Varanasi, you’ll hit the highlights and still have space to make the trip your own.
Itinerary
Day 1
Delhi
Welcome to India's bustling capital - Delhi! Arrive in time to meet at 2:00 pm for your welcome meeting and orientation walk.
Embark on an afternoon orientation tour visiting Connaught Place and India Gate for those iconic photos. Tonight, wander through the electric Karol Bagh market for your first night out; pick the best looking spot and cheers to new adventures and friends!
Day 2
Delhi/Pushkar
Travel by train through the arid terrain to Pushkar, often called Tirth Raj or the "king of pilgrim centres," home to the world’s only temple for the Hindu god of creation, Brahma. Get your bearings on an orientation walk around the colourful city visiting the lake, ghats, and of course the 14th century Brahama temple. Spend some time this afternoon exploring the markets or opt for an unforgettable evening by dressing in traditional Indian clothes before partaking in an authentic dinner cooked by cameleers in the desert while enjoying live entertainment!
Day 3
Pushkar/Jaipur
Before dawn, climb to the hilltop Savitri Temple and catch the sun rising over the towering Thar Desert hills. Afterward, travel by train — always an adventure itself in India — to the pink city of Jaipur, home to India’s second most visited site, the Hawa Mahal, or "Palace of the Winds." Enjoy an orientation walk through the market stalls.
Day 4
Jaipur
Opt to visit the City Palace with its fine collection of textiles and costumes or admire the mind-boggling architecture of Hawa Mahal. Discover more of the wisdom and history of the Mughals by wandering around the Jantar Mantar, an observatory built in the 1700's, or opt to sit back and relax if you like - sipping a cocktail in any of the luxuriously converted palaces. 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. If you aren't afraid of heights, pre-book a balloon ride to get an aerial view of the pink city.
Day 5
Jaipur/Agra
Travel by early morning train to the Mughal city of Agra, site of India’s most famous landmark - the Taj Mahal! Immerse yourself in a guided tour and learn of the mausoleums unique history as you admire the iconic Mughal architecture.
Day 6
Agra/Varanasi
Spend the day getting to know Agra. Opt for a tuk tuk ride to visit Baby Taj and the Agra Fort, the Taj’s less famous—but no less impressive—sister monument, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, board an overnight train and wake up in Varanasi.
Day 7
Varanasi
Take an orientation walk along Varanasi's ghats and through the old city. Afterward, opt to explore the temples and take in the spiritual energy of the city.
Day 8
Varanasi
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.
Pre-book the Guided Visit of Sarnath and learn about the life of the Buddha. Discover the archeological ruins of the monastery. Explore the museum at Sarnath and the sacred Maha Bodhi Tree. Visit temples constructed by the buddhist people of Sri Lanka, Thailand and Japan and stop to admire the Buddha statue during the three hours of guided exploration.
Day 9
Varanasi
Depart at any time.
What's Included
Accommodation
Simple hotels or guesthouse (twin-share) (7 nts), sleeper train (1 nt).
Meals
Breakfasts: 0, Lunches: 0, Dinners: 0
Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
Vegetarian options availableLocal Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Dates & Prices
Oct 25
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- Save 26%Tue 7 Oct 2025 > Wed 15 Oct 2025Guaranteed Departure🔥3 spaces of 18 left£419Best offer£308
- Save 26%Tue 21 Oct 2025 > Wed 29 Oct 2025Guaranteed Departure£419Best offer£308
- Save 26%Tue 28 Oct 2025 > Wed 5 Nov 2025Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 18 left£419Best offer£308
Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
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