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Experience the wonders of this vibrant and mystical land.
Conjure up India at its most alluring—the mystique of Eastern religions, the swirl of colorful saris, and of course, the magic of the Taj Mahal. On this small group Adventure Tour, you’ll experience all the sights, sounds, and spiciness of the subcontinent while hitting the highlights of the Golden Triangle, with its stunning architecture and prolific wildlife.
Your tour package includes
8 nights in handpicked hotels
8 breakfasts
3 lunches
5 dinners with beer or wine
1 tasting
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Included highlights
Jama Masjid
Qutub Minar
Humayun’s Tomb
Sikh community kitchen
Itmad-ud-Daula
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Start planning today
An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.
Welcome to India! Arrive late this evening in Delhi and settle in to your hotel.
Day 3: Sightseeing tour of Old Delhi
Included meals: Breakfast, Welcome dinner
Enjoy a restful morning, then take a guided tour of Old Delhi this afternoon.
See Raj Ghat, Delhi’s tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, and visit the Gandhi museum
View the black-and-white onion dome and minarets of the Jama Masjid, one of the most elegant mosques in India
Take a rickshaw ride through the streets of Old Delhi
Sit down for an included welcome dinner at a local restaurant this evening.
Day 4: Sightseeing tour of New Delhi
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, your Tour Director introduces you to New Delhi.
Visit the India Gate, the most famous war memorial in India
See Qutub Minar, an early Islamic tower and UNESCO World Heritage site
Explore the grand boulevards, government buildings, and city parks
Sit down for an included lunch
Visit Humayun’s Tomb and learn about the UNESCO-recognized complex
Enter Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, one of the city’s most important places of worship for Sikhs
Learn about the history and traditions of Sikhism, the fifth-largest and youngest organized religion in the world
See the langar, or community kitchen, where free meals are served 24 hours a day
Please note: Due to conditions within Delhi, the schedule of your sightseeing tour may vary based on your departure date. Additionally, all travelers will be given a head covering they’re required to wear in the Sikh temple.
Agra1 night
Day 5: Transfer to Agra, Itimad-ud-Daula & the Taj Mahal
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel to Agra and visit the Itmad-ud-Daula mausoleum, which is known as the baby Taj and houses the tomb of Mughal official Mirza Ghiyas Beg.
Walk through the manicured grounds
Enter the tomb with your Tour Director to see the buildings marble lattice screens, intricate tilework, and artistic motifs
Enjoy an included lunch before heading out on a guided tour of the legendary Taj Mahal at sunset.
Sit down for an included dinner this evening.
Ranthambore2 nights
Day 6: Yoga lesson, Mehtab Bagh garden & train to Ranthambore
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Start your day with a morning yoga class. You’ll follow along with your instructor as you salute the sun and sip tea in view of the Taj Mahal.
Please note: Yoga mats are provided.
Later, visit the Mehtab Bagh garden with your Tour Director.
Admire the incredible views of the Taj Mahal from across the Yamuna River
Stroll through the square-shaped garden
Learn abut the Mughal empire and the Persian design elements they incorporated into the garden
Continue on to Ranthambore National Park by train this afternoon and sit down for an included dinner tonight.
Day 7: Game drives in Ranthambore National Park
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend the day exploring Ranthambore National Park.
Set off on a morning game drive, keeping watch for the elusive Bengal tiger
Stop by Dhonk, a craft workshop run by the non-profit conservation organization Tiger Watch
Discover how people from the organization teach ex-poachers handicraft skills and provide them with sustainable job opportunities
Enjoy an included lunch
Head out on an afternoon game drive through the rugged terrain
Try to spot sloth bears, striped hyenas, jackals, and Indian mongooses
Sit down for an included dinner this evening.
Jaipur2 nights
Day 8: Jaipur via Rajasthani village
Included meal: Breakfast
This morning, learn about the Meena tribe during a stop at a local Rajasthani village.
Join a head member of the village, known as a pradhan, on a walk through the village
Interact with villagers during visits to a home and small shops as you learn about the local culture
Hear how the money they receive from your visit is used to develop the community
Please note: The pradhan requests travelers do not give money or gifts to children or villagers.
Then, travel to Jaipur and spend a free evening in the city or add an excursion.
An Evening in Jaipur: Bollywood Movie Night
From $29 per person
Day 9: Amber Fort, 4x4 Jeep ride & sightseeing tour of Jaipur
Included meals: Breakfast, Tasting, Farewell dinner
Travel to the 16th-century Amber Fort to take in stunning architecture and sweeping views.
Climb into a 4x4 Jeep to ascend the slope to Amber Fort
Enjoy beautiful views from the top of the fort as well as a guided tour
Then, travel back to Jaipur, known as The Pink City, and set off on a guided tour.
Walk through the city's bustling markets, stopping to sample a local tea called masala chai
Marvel at historic sites and enter the City Palace to explore its museum with your Tour Director
View Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds
Sit down for a farewell dinner with a local Rajput family in their home.
Overnight Flight1 night
Day 10: Transfer to Delhi & departure
Included meal: Breakfast
Travel back to Delhi. If you’re not extending your tour, you’ll have time to relax in a dayroom before returning to the airport for your overnight flight home.
Arrive Home
Day 11: Arrival at home
Arrive home today.
Extension to Cochin, Kerala Backwaters & Mumbai
Southern India has a laid-back vibe that gives it a notably different feel. Plus, the food is some of the best in the whole country, which doesn't hurt. Fly to Cochin to cruise through God's Own Country on a houseboat alongside an expert before flying to Mumbai, where history is at your fingertips.
Cochin2 nights
Day 10: Flight to Cochin
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Fly from Jaipur to Cochin this morning. Then, sit down for an included dinner.
Day 11: Sightseeing tour of Cochin & cooking class
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Take part in an optional yoga lesson at your hotel early this morning.
Then, discover why Cochin is considered the jewel in the crown of Kerala on today's tour.
Visit Fort Cochin, home to some of the oldest European architecture in India
See Mattancherry Palace and the Santa Cruz Basilica
Enter and marvel at the St. Francis Church—the oldest European church in India—and Paradesi Synagogue, where you’ll see Hebrew-inscribed gravestones
Stroll through the old city and explore the Spice Market with your Tour Director leading the way
This evening, join a local chef to learn how to cook cuisine native to Kerala. You’ll sit down to enjoy the foods you cooked for dinner.
Kerala Backwaters1 night
Day 12: Transfer to Alleppey
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel to Alleppey to board a houseboat for a cruise through the Kerala backwaters, a network of picturesque lagoons and canals.
Enjoy a lunch of local cuisine cooked by private houseboat chefs
Hop aboard a canoe to try your hand at fishing and learn about fishing traditions in the backwaters from a local guide
Spend tonight on board the houseboat for a unique opportunity to experience some of India’s most stunning scenery
Sit down for an included dinner of regional cuisine cooked by the private houseboat chefs
Mumbai1 night
Day 13: Transfer to Cochin & flight to Mumbai
Included meals: Breakfast, Farewell dinner
Disembark and transfer to Cochin before flying to Mumbai.
This evening, celebrate your trip at a farewell dinner.
Overnight Flight1 night
Day 14: Sightseeing tour of Mumbai & departure
Included meal: Breakfast
Today, you’ll be introduced to the vibrant culture of Mumbai on a guided tour.
Ride past Marine Drive and make your way to the Hanging Gardens
Make a photo stop at Dhobi Ghat
Visit Mani Bhavan, the headquarters of Gandhi’s political activities from 1917 to 1934
See the stunning Victorian Gothic Revival architecture of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus train station
Pass by the Bombay High Court, the University of Mumbai, and the Gateway of India
Step inside the CSMVS museum to explore some of the 50,000 archaeological, artistic, and historical artifacts
Then, relax in a dayroom before traveling to the airport for your overnight flight home.
While India was never on my bucket list, I am so happy to have had this experience. India is very different. The culture, the religions, the clothing, traditions and especially the traffic!
We had a terrific tour guide, Rajeev, who taught us so much. He was patient with the group and a pleasure to...
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EF Go Ahead Tours replied on 4/25/23
Thank you so much for your review. We are so glad ...
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5.0 star rating
Not to be missed
1/21/23 by 7th-time traveler David
A busy fun packed trip with breathtaking sites. Highlights were the Taj Mahal, Tiger Safari and the overnight houseboat trip. We had a great travel group of 13 and the best tour director.
5.0 star rating
1/21/23 by 1st-time traveler Sina
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Traveler photos
Hotels, flights & FAQ
Here's the nitty-gritty—where you’ll stay, how you’ll get there, and what to know about your destination before you go.
Hotels
We handpick every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm. Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date, but these are frequently used hotels for this tour and we're confident you'll be satisfied.
Hyatt Regency Delhi
This upscale hotel is located in Cama Place, New Delhi. Guests enjoy a fitness center, restaurants, and yoga classes. Nearby, you'll find Sarojini Nag...
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Courtyard by Marriott Agra
This luxurious hotel is located in Agra in India’s most popular state of Uttar Pradesh. Guests enjoy the outdoor pool, fitness center, and convenient ...
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Naharharh Ranthambhore
This luxurious hotel is located in Village Khilchipur, Rajasthan. Guests enjoy free WiFi, a restaurant, and pool. Nearby, you'll find the Indian count...
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Lemon Tree Premier
This comfortable hotel is located in Subash Nagar, Jaipur. Guests enjoy WiFi, a spa, and fitness center. Nearby, you'll find Nahargarh Fort, Om Sai Te...
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Trident Cochin
This modern hotel is located on Willingdon Island. Guests enjoy multiple restaurant options, an exercise room, and an outdoor pool with a sundeck. Nea...
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Kerala Backwaters House Boat
This traditional house boat is located in Alappuzha, Kerala. Guests enjoy music systems, a crew, and housekeeping services. Nearby, you'll find the Ke...
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ICT Grand Central
This landmark hotel is located in the recreational center of Parel neighborhood of Mumbai. Guests enjoy the indoor/outdoor pools, wellness center, and...
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Flights
Round-trip flights are one more thing we handle to make your journey as smooth as possible. Our team of travel experts will find the best flight itinerary for you at a competitive rate, thanks to our partnerships with top airlines.
Add our airfare package and you'll get:
Round-trip flight for your tour
Airport transfers at your destination
A great price locked in today
24/7 support from our dedicated service team
Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
In order to enter India, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of return.
We recommend having at least two blank passport pages for entry stamps.
U.S. and Canadian passport holders must obtain a visa in advance in order to enter India. You may choose to apply directly to the Indian consulate for an E-Visa or use a visa provider, such as our partner company, VisaCentral. Obtaining an Indian visa will be an additional cost.
If you’re not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact the Indian consulate for specific entry requirements.
You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code GTI.
You will walk for about 1.5 hours daily across moderately uneven terrain, including paved roads and cobblestone streets, with some hills and stairs.
Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance.
You should feel comfortable managing your own luggage at times, as well as getting in and out of trains and small boats.
Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special, individual mobility assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group as a whole enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing, individualized assistance to any one traveler.
If you have any mobility concerns or physical restrictions, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in and depart from Delhi (or from Mumbai on the tour extension). A representative from Go Ahead Tours will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Please remain in the arrival lounge, as the representative might be escorting one of your fellow travelers to the bus at the time of your arrival.
Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost.
A train ride from Fatehpur Sikri to Ranthambore is included in the price of the tour. (The tour extension includes flights from Jaipur to Cochin and Cochin to Mumbai, as well as a houseboat cruise through the Kerala Backwaters).
All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which may include train connections or flights.
Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights, which may include on-tour flights in addition to your round-trip flights to and from tour. Please note that your included on-tour flights may have more restrictive baggage limits.
Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage or exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
Please note that the flights included on the tour extension may have baggage restrictions as low as 33lbs for checked bags and 15lbs for carry-on bags. You will be responsible for any costs associated with overweight baggage.
Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
Waterproof shoes or sandals, a swimsuit, sunscreen, and insect repellent are recommended for outdoor activities.
Binoculars are handy for a closer look at local wildlife and scenery.
You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
It is preferable not to visit temples or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov.
Local governments may require proof of a yellow fever vaccination (often referred to as a yellow card) or a statement of medical exemption from the vaccine. This is only required of travelers arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever virus transmission (Please note: This does not include the U.S. or Canada). Visit cdc.gov/yellowfever for more information.
Take proper care with sun exposure, the sun can be especially strong in some of the regions on this tour.
Drink bottled water only. Refrain from ingesting tap water, including when brushing your teeth.
Avoid eating fresh fruits and vegetables unless they’re cooked or washed in clean water and peeled.
Public restrooms in India can be quite bare. We suggest carrying bathroom tissue and hand sanitizer with you.
If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour and any possible delays encountered.
If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please call our Customer Experience Team.
You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code GTI.
In the northern regions of India, you’ll encounter a great deal of flavorful meat dishes, as well as kebabs and biryanis. In tandoor cooking, probably the most popular cuisine in this region, vegetables, paneer (Indian cheese), or meat is marinated in spiced yogurt and cooked over coals. As many Indians are vegetarians, meat-free options abound. Meals are usually served with rice or bread, such as unleavened roti or deep-fried puri. Many of your included meals will be buffet style, which will allow you to try a variety of new dishes.
India operates on 230 volts and uses a type D plug with two small, round pins and one larger round pin.
We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
The strength of the air conditioning in Asian hotels is often not as strong or as cool as what one might be used to in the U.S. or Canada. When air conditioning is available, it is usually regulated seasonally and controlled centrally by the hotel.
Your hotels may provide hairdryers, irons, and other small appliances. However, these amenities cannot be guaranteed.
Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, though you may want to order some currency from your local bank or a foreign currency exchange retailer, such as Travelex, before you arrive.
Travelers may carry up to 25,000 Indian rupees into the country when entering through an airport. Travelers may bring up to 25,000 Indian rupees out of India unless continuing on to Bhutan or Nepal.
If you wish, you can also obtain rupees through a currency exchange booth at the airport upon your arrival in India. Keep receipt of your exchange.
Cash is the preferred method of payment across India. Some larger vendors may accept international debit and credit cards, such as MasterCard and Visa, though it is uncommon and a minimum payment is generally required.
Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
We recommend tipping the equivalent of $8USD to $10USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
Tips can only be paid in cash.
International travel is, by its very nature, unpredictable. We must therefore reserve the right to change this itinerary, without advance notice, to meet with local conditions at the time of travel. We appreciate you understanding. Please refer to our website for Terms & Conditions, dates, and prices.