India South & North

India South & North

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29 Days From

$3870

$3483

India South & North

29 Days Starting in Kochi and ending in Delhi

Visiting: Kochi, Conoor, Ootacamund – Conoor, Mudumalai National Park – Bandipur, Mysore, Mysore – Overnight train, Mamallapuram, Puducherry , Madurai, Periyar , Kerala Backwaters , Delhi, Agra, Madhogarh, Jaipur, Ranthambhore National Park, Bundi, Paangarh Lake, Bijaipur, Udaipur, Pushkar, Pushkar - Delhi

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

HHSZC

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99 years

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

From: $3870 $3483 Operator discount: -$387

NB: Prices correct on 04-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

This extensive 29-day adventure through India takes you from bottom to top, revealing the icons and local secrets of this diverse country. Revel in the tropical climate, warm waters, and lush green landscapes of the south in places like Kochi, Puducherry, and Madurai. Then be dazzled by kaleidoscopic colours, Mughal grandeur, and the overt spirituality of the north in Jaipur and Agra. Travel from Kochi to Delhi and combine the slower delights of Kerala and Tamil Nadu with the rush and jumble of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan on our longest Original-style India tour.

Highlights

  • Explore seaside Mamallapuram on a bicycle tour, pedalling to the eighth-century Shore Temple and incredible seventh-century stone carving known as Arjuna’s Penance.

  • Carve through the iridescent hills of Ootacamund (Ooty) on the vintage Nilgiri Mountain Railway, then visit a lush tea plantation.

  • Spot tigers, elephants, sloths, and birds on safaris and nature walks in three of India’s wildlife viewing hotspots – Mudumalai, Periyar, and Ranthambhore national parks.

  • Cruise the winding backwaters of Kerala and further immerse yourself in life on the water with an island homestay in this idyllic region.

  • Learn about life in the Rajasthani desert on a walking tour around the bustling ghats and temples of Pushkar followed by lunch with a local family.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Kochi

Location: Kochi

Accommodation: Hotel

Namaste! Welcome to India. Your adventure starts today in Kochi with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, there are plenty of things to see and do. Once an important spice-trading centre, Kochi has been under Portuguese, Dutch and British rule at various times throughout history. Explore with one of our Urban Adventures or wander down to the shore and seek out the huge Chinese fishing nets dotted along the coast of Fort Cochin.

Day 2: Kochi

Location: Kochi

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, take on Kochi with a leader-led orientation walk and city tour. Take a local tuk-tuk to Mattancherry and drop by the Dutch Palace, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century before it was renovated and presented to the Rajas of Cochin by the Dutch. Maybe visit the Paradesi Synagogue – the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth and home to many rare antiques. Then, amble around the spice bazaars and antique stores of Fort Cochin. In the evening, experience a Kathakali performance – this Keralan dance is an ornately costumed display of storytelling, requiring complete control of the body.

Included Activities:
-Kochi - Leader-led Fort Kochi walking tour
-Kochi - Dutch Palace
-Kochi - Kathakali performance

Optional Activities:
-Kochi - Jewish Synagogue

Day 3: Conoor

Location: Conoor

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Buckle up, because most of today is spent travelling. Catch a train to Coimbatore, then when you arrive, hop in your private vehicle to Conoor – known for its tea estates in the surrounding Nilgiri hills. Watch the lush scenery pass you by, get stuck into a good book or play road trip games with your fellow travellers. When you arrive in Conoor, you’ll sit down for a group dinner at your accommodation.

Day 4: Ootacamund – Conoor

Location: Ootacamund – Conoor

Accommodation: Hotel

Spend the morning in Conoor with an orientation walk and a visit to a tea plantation to learn about the history of tea production. Later, board Ooty’s renowned toy train for a ride along the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. Be sure to get a window seat for great views over the lush countryside. Spend the rest of the day exploring Ooty’s Botanical Gardens, which are home to over 650 species of plants and trees. You can also opt to turn on the romance with a boat ride on the lake.

Included Activities:
-Ooty - Nilgiri Mountain Railway & Tea Plantation visit

Optional Activities:
-Ooty - Botanical Gardens
-Ooty - Boat ride

Day 5: Mudumalai National Park – Bandipur

Location: Mudumalai National Park – Bandipur

Accommodation: Jungle Lodge

Meals Included: lunch, dinner

Take a private vehicle for the short drive to Bandipur today. Set against the backdrop of the Nilgiri Hills, Mudumalai National Park was once the Mysore Maharaja's private hunting ground. In 1974 it was brought under Project Tiger and is now one of the best sanctuaries in India to observe wildlife in close proximity. Embark on a short safari in search of tigers, leopards, elephants, sloth bears, sambars, spotted deer and much more. There's also an amazing variety of birdlife in the park. Tonight’s family-run accommodation in Bandipur is a mixed-gender dormitory style with a common bathroom. This dorm room is only open to your group.

Included Activities:
-Bandipur - National Park Safari

Day 6: Mysore

Location: Mysore

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Travel by private vehicle across the scenic Karnataka plains to Mysore – an easy-going town with a pleasant climate, perfect for wandering around on foot. When you arrive, you’ll head to local family’s home for a home-cooked lunch of traditional favourites. Get to know the family, who will show you the practise of making incense – one of the traditional arts from Mysuru. Learn about how it’s made and maybe even have a go yourself! Then, head out on an orientation walk around the town to get your bearings. No visit to Mysore is complete without a look around Mysore Palace – one of the most ornate palaces in India, its interior is full of colour, mosaics and mirrors.

Included Activities:
-Mysore - Home cooked lunch & family visit
-Mysore - Maharaja's Palace
-Mysore - Leader-led walking tour

Day 7: Mysore – Overnight Train

Location: Mysore – Overnight train

Accommodation: Overnight Sleeper Train

This morning, head out to climb Chamundi Hill to the Sri Chamundeswari Temple, dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Durga. After, continue to the Keshava Temple in the small town of Somnathpur – an excellent example of Hoysala architecture. You’ll also have some time to visit to Tipu Sultan’s mausoleum in Sriranga Patna. You can also opt to return to Mysore for a palm reading catch a film at the local cinema. Tonight, board an overnight sleeper train to Chennai.

Included Activities:
-Mysore - Keshava Temple
-Mysore - Chamundi Hill & Temple

Optional Activities:
-Mysore - Cinema
-Mysore - Tipu Sultan's Mausoleum

Day 8: Mamallapuram

Location: Mamallapuram

Accommodation: Hotel

After arriving in Chennai, take a private vehicle along the scenic East Coast Road to Mamallapuram. Explore this ancient seaport town by tuk tuk, paying a visit to the seventh-century Shore Temple and the enormous bas-relief rock carving, known as Arjuna's Penance. There will also be time to inspect the town’s numerous mandapams (pillared temple pavilions), watch local stonemasons at work, or just to kick back and relax at a beachside restaurant.

Included Activities:
-Mamallapuram - Shore Temples guided tour

Day 9: Puducherry

Location: Puducherry

Accommodation: Hotel

Travel by private vehicle today through palm trees and rice paddies to Puducherry (Pondicherry). When you arrive, head out with your group and leader on a walking tour to see local temples, the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and the French Quarter. Once a French colony, you’ll see the evidence of French influence in Puducherry's architecture, its wide town squares and even in the police uniforms!

Included Activities:
-Puducherry - Leader-led French Quarter walking tour

Day 10: Madurai

Location: Madurai

Accommodation: Hotel

Drive to the temple city of Madurai today. Madurai’s Tamil roots stretch back 2500 years, making it one of the oldest cities in India. Wander the lamp-lit labyrinth of the Sri Meenakshi Amman Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and goddess Meenakshi. Visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum, which displays a detailed account of India’s struggle for independence along with the bloodstained dhoti the famous leader wore when he was assassinated.

Included Activities:
-Madurai - Sri Meenakshi Temple

Optional Activities:
-Madurai - Gandhi Museum - Free

Day 11: Periyar

Location: Periyar

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: lunch

This morning, travel by private vehicle along a winding road to the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve. High in the ranges of the Western Ghats, the park is set among stunning scenery and is the most popular wildlife sanctuary in Southern India. Both today and tomorrow, you’ll get to explore the national park on foot and will understand why Periyar is a popular wilderness sanctuary, with its lush surroundings. Enjoy a tour of a local spice plantation, then join your local family hosts to try some authentic home-cooked flavours of Southern India.

Included Activities:
-Periyar - Spice plantation visit
-Periyar - Home cooked meal

Day 12: Periyar

Location: Periyar

Accommodation: Hotel

Venture back into the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary today for a guided nature walk. Encounters with animals in the wild are never guaranteed, and this is more of a jungle walk than an animal spotting tour, but do look out for tiger tracks, spotted deer, Indian elephants or gaur – the world's largest species of buffalo. In the afternoon, unwind with an optional ayurvedic massage at your accommodation, or just relax in this scenic setting with a drink.

Included Activities:
-Periyar - National Park
-Periyar - Guided nature walk

Optional Activities:
-Periyar - Boat trip

Day 13: Kerala Backwaters

Location: Kerala Backwaters

Accommodation: Homestay

Meals Included: lunch, dinner

Today, drive through the rubber, tea and coffee plantations on the way to the backwaters of Kerala. When you arrive, you’ll board a motorboat to cross to the island village where you’ll stay with a local family tonight. In the late afternoon, explore the island with a local English-speaking guide (and sometimes, your homestay host). This is a great chance to meet locals and learn more about their unique way of life. Take a leisurely punt boat ride around the waterways and enjoy the scenery. Tonight, share stories over a traditional home-cooked Keralan meal with your host family.

Included Activities:
-Kerala Backwaters - Pole boat ride
-Kerala Backwaters - Village walk

Day 14: Kochi

Location: Kochi

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Wake early this morning, before crossing the backwaters by private boat to Alleppey. From here, take a local bus back to Kochi. The rest of the day is free for you to choose your own adventure. Perhaps you’d like to stroll down Princess Street for a spot of shopping, or book yourself into a southern Indian cooking class – your group leader will have some other recommendations, so be sure to ask them. Tonight, why not gather with your group for a night out at a local restaurant and maybe try some pazham pori (fried banana or plantain fritter).

Day 15: Delhi

Location: Delhi

Accommodation: Hotel

Take your included (but unescorted) flight from Kochi to Delhi today for the second part of your Indian adventure. There will be a meeting at 6 pm to welcome any new travellers joining you on the next stage of your adventure. After the meeting, choose whether to join the group for an optional dinner.


Optional Activities:
-Delhi - Qutub Minar
-Delhi - Humayun's Tomb
-Old Red Fort

Day 16: Delhi

Location: Delhi

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning, you'll navigate the city’s metro system and discover Old Delhi on a walking tour with your leader. Hitch a ride on a traditional cycle rickshaw through a classic Indian traffic jam in the streets around the Chandni Chowk marketplace. Visit Delhi’s oldest mosque Jama Masjid, which is also India’s largest, and escape the city streets by ducking into a Sikh temple, Sheeshganj Gurudwara, to observe the spiritual side of this bustling metropolis. The communal kitchen welcomes all, and there's a chance to have a simple meal here together. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy the sights of Delhi.

Included Activities:
-Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour
-Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
-Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque

Day 17: Agra

Location: Agra

Accommodation: Hotel

Travel to Agra by one of India's express air-conditioned trains. Steeped in Mughal heritage, Agra has a wealth of gardens, temples and open rooftops. Visit the Taj Mahal and learn why Emperor Shah Jahan built it as a memorial to his wife Mumtaz. Explore inside the spectacular sandstone walls of the Red Fort, built to encompass the imperial city of the Mughal rulers in the 16th century. If you have time, move on to Akbar's Mausoleum to honour the great emperor. For a meal that makes a difference, consider visiting Sheroes Hangout, a remarkable social enterprise that supports survivors of acid attacks.

Included Activities:
-Agra - Taj Mahal
-Agra - Agra Fort
-Agra - Red Fort guided tour

Optional Activities:
-Agra - Additional entries to Taj Mahal

Day 18: Madhogarh

Location: Madhogarh

Accommodation: Heritage Property

Meals Included: dinner

Take a private bus to Madhogarh this morning. When you arrive, walk through the village and see the local craftspeople at work making resin bangles. These families are from the Lakhera community and in Hindu mythology, Lakheras are considered to be created by Lord Shiva for making bangles for Goddess Parvathy. This practice is a traditional art and you can see for yourself how they heat the resin and shape it with handmade tools. In the evening, stay in the beautiful heritage property of Fort Madhogarh, which has belonged to one of Rajasthan’s royal families for centuries.

Included Activities:
-Madhogarh - Leader-led village walk
-Madhogarh - Dinner at Fort Madhogarh

Day 19: Jaipur

Location: Jaipur

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Travel on by private vehicle to Jaipur. When you arrive, take a walk around the ‘Pink City’ with your leader. Get among the crowds of the city’s bazaars to shop for artisan goods and semi-precious stones. Visit the Amber Fort, an excellent example of Rajput architecture, set on a hilltop overlooking Maota Lake. The Sheesh Mahal inside the fort is a must-see. As the walls are completely covered in little mirrors, the hall illuminates with the light of a single match. After the tour, you'll have further free time to spend as you wish.

Included Activities:
-Jaipur - Amber Fort
-Jaipur - Leader-led walking & market tour

Day 20: Jaipur

Location: Jaipur

Accommodation: Hotel

Today is a full free day that you can jam-pack with experiences of your choice. This morning, you could take an optional hot air balloon ride. Floating across the skyline of Jaipur in a hot air balloon is a highlight of the trip for many travellers. Jump on a rickshaw to Hawa Mahal, also known as the 'Palace of the Winds’. Alternatively, head to Jaipur's Royal City Palace or the observatory of Jantar Mantar to see a collection of intriguing astronomical instruments. After a long day of exploration, perhaps head to the Raj Mandir Cinema to experience a Bollywood film.

Optional Activities:
-Jaipur - City Palace
-Jaipur - Jantar Mantar Observatory
-Jaipur - Bollywood Movie at Raj Mandir Cinema
-Jaipur - Balloon Safari
-Jaipur - Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Wind)

Day 21: Ranthambhore National Park

Location: Ranthambhore National Park

Accommodation: Hotel

Continuing on from Jaipur by private vehicle, head to Ranthambhore this morning. Ranthambhore National Park was once a famous hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur and was one of the original Project Tiger reserves. Explore the ruins of the park’s 10th-century fort, and in the evening take a 4WD bus safari in search of tigers and other wildlife, such as hyenas, jackals, deer, langurs, marsh crocodiles, wild boars and birds. Ranthambhore National Park is closed between 1 July and 30 September each year. On trips departing during this time, you'll visit nearby Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary. Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary is about 16 km from Ranthambhore and due to its hilly terrain isn't as affected by the monsoon. Tigers also inhabit this area and spottings are more favourable at this time of year as they move here away from flooded areas of Ranthambhore.

Included Activities:
-Ranthambhore National Park - Evening wildlife safari

Day 22: Bundi

Location: Bundi

Accommodation: Heritage Property

Today, you'll travel to Bundi by private vehicle. When you arrive, navigate Bundi's narrow streets on an insightful walking tour, including wandering through the downtown market and meeting jewellery merchants, street dentists, and fabric dealers. Learn the secret of chai making from a local chai master and try a fresh brew. Stop in at Bundi's intriguing and intricate step wells (baori), an architectural marvel, and once the source of water for the town. Check out the 16th-century Bundi Palace with its famous murals before checking into our next heritage stay for the night.


Included Activities:
-Bundi - Stepwell
-Bundi - Bundi Palace
-Bundi - Market visit & Chai tasting

Day 23: Paangarh Lake

Location: Paangarh Lake

Accommodation: Permanent Tent

Take off from Bundi and take a local train to Bassi. cross the Chittorgarh countryside to Paangarh Lake. Enjoy the view out to the 15th-century fort and unwind with a cup of chai while watching the sunset over the lake. You'll spend tonight in a beautiful permanent tented camp, right on the lakeshore - a truly relaxing experience away from the chaos of India's cities.



Day 24: Bijaipur

Location: Bijaipur

Accommodation: Heritage Property

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

This morning we drive in an open-top jeep out into the countryside past tranquil villages. You might be lucky enough to spot some native wildlife as we drive through the region. Meet some villagers and maybe even get a henna tattoo - a temporary but very traditional souvenir. Arrive at our next heritage stay and enjoy a meal of authentic local specialties. 





Included Activities:
-Bijaipur - Countryside jeep safari

Optional Activities:
-Bijaipur - Henna tattoo

Day 25: Udaipur

Location: Udaipur

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Depart the heritage stay and begin your next journey by private vehicle takes us to Udaipur. Take in the city’s hills, lakes, and white marble palaces, or delve into its twisting alleys and bazaars filled with silver, leather goods, and miniature paintings. A popular centre for artists, dancers, and musicians, there’s plenty to entertain you here. After a city walk with your leader, the rest of your day is free.

Included Activities:
-Udaipur - Leader-led walking tour

Day 26: Udaipur

Location: Udaipur

Accommodation: Hotel

Visit Udaipur's City Palace, one of the largest royal palaces in India. Some suggestions for your free time after the tour include an optional boat ride on the picturesque Lake Pichola (seasonal) to marvel at the island palaces off Jag Nivas and Jag Mandir and seeing a cultural performance that combines seven traditional Rajasthani folk dances in the evening.

Included Activities:
-Udaipur - City Palace

Optional Activities:
-Udaipur - Cultural performance
-Udaipur - Lake boat ride

Day 27: Pushkar

Location: Pushkar

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: dinner

Today, take an air-conditioned train to Ajmer and then a private vehicle to your hotel in Pushkar, a place synonymous with Rajasthan. Enjoy a walking tour to visit the bustling ghats and temples around Pushkar Lake, and watch as the devout worship by the holy waters and at the Brahma Temple. At dinnertime, share a meal with a local family and learn about their life living in this desert city. The rest of the day is free for you to explore further.

Included Activities:
-Pushkar - Leader-led walking tour
-Pushkar - Home-cooked Dinner

Day 28: Pushkar - Delhi

Location: Pushkar - Delhi

Accommodation: Hotel

Early risers can hike up to the Savitri Temple for amazing sunrise views over the town this morning. Board the Shatabdi Express train, departing Ajmer around 2 pm for the trip back to Delhi, arriving at around 10:40 pm. Transfer to the hotel on arrival for your final night of the trip.

Optional Activities:
-Pushkar - Sunrise at Savitri Temple - Free

Day 29: Delhi

Location: Delhi

There are no activities planned for the final day and you’re able to depart the accommodation at any time.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Deluxe permanent tent (1 night), Heritage Property (3 nights), Homestay (1 night), Hotel (16 nights), Jungle resort (1 night), Overnight sleeper train (1 night), Resort (2 nights)

  • Kochi - Leader-led Fort Kochi walking tour

  • Kochi - Dutch Palace

  • Kochi - Kathakali performance

  • Ooty - Nilgiri Mountain Railway & Tea Plantation visit

  • Bandipur - National Park Safari

  • Mysore - Home cooked lunch & family visit

  • Mysore - Maharaja's Palace

  • Mysore - Leader-led walking tour

  • Mysore - Keshava Temple

  • Mysore - Chamundi Hill & Temple

show more

What's Not Included

  • International Travel

  • Tipping and Gratuities

Included Activities

  • Kochi - Leader-led Fort Kochi walking tour
  • Kochi - Dutch Palace
  • Kochi - Kathakali performance
  • Ooty - Nilgiri Mountain Railway & Tea Plantation visit
  • Mysore - Home cooked lunch & family visit
  • Mysore - Maharaja's Palace
  • Mysore - Leader-led walking tour
  • Mysore - Keshava Temple
  • Mysore - Chamundi Hill & Temple
  • Mamallapuram - Cycling tour
  • Mamallapuram - Shore Temples guided tour
  • Puducherry - Leader-led walking tour
  • Madurai - Sri Meenakshi Temple
  • Periyar - Spice plantation visit
  • Periyar - National Park
  • Periyar - Guided nature walk
  • Kerala Backwaters - Pole boat ride
  • Kerala Backwaters - Village walk
  • Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour
  • Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
  • Delhi - Jama Masjid
  • Agra - Taj Mahal
  • Agra - Agra Fort
  • Agra - Red Fort guided tour
  • Madhogarh - Leader-led village walk
  • Madhogarh - Dinner at Fort Madhogarh
  • Jaipur - Amber Fort
  • Jaipur - Leader-led walking & market tour
  • Ranthambhore National Park - Evening wildlife safari
  • Bundi - Stepwell
  • Bundi - Palace
  • Bijaipur - Leader-led village tour
  • Udaipur - Leader-led walking tour
  • Udaipur - City Palace
  • Pushkar - Leader-led walking tour
  • Pushkar - Home-cooked lunch

Transport

  • TRANSPORT IN INDIA:
  • Main roads in India are usually very busy with an assortment of vehicles from the biggest trucks (who always have right of way) down to bikes (and animals!). Overtaking on blind corners at speed is common as is the total use of the horn as a form of communication. Our leaders have complete authority to remove groups from local transport if the driver is not driving safely. Drivers of our private vehicles are experienced and well trained. if you are uncomfortable with your driver, please always let your tour leader know immediately. Please ensure you wear your seat belt at all times.
  • TRAVEL TIMES:
  • Distances in India do not reflect the driving time and to cover 100km may take much longer than you would expect at home, even if much of the route is on a highway.
  • TRAINS:
  • India has a massive network of trains and millions of people travel by rail every day. Trains often travel the length of the country over several days. Trains are a great way to see the countryside and get you away from the busy road system. Delays and cancellations are common on trains. Your tour leader will check the train status to see if there are delays and will do their best to keep you informed of any changes.
  • From December to February, delays are more common, especially in the north of the country due to fog. It’s not uncommon for trains to be delayed for up to 12 hours. On occasion, your trip will may to be rerouted to allow for these delays. Your tour leader in conjunction with our local office will advise any changes to the itinerary.
  • The Indian Railway system is one of the largest railway networks in the world and quite complex. Seat allocation is completely computerized on a centralized reservation system and we do not have control over seat allocations. Despite booking tickets months in advance of a departure your group's seats, or sleeping berths on overnight trains, maybe spread out within one carriage or multiple carriages of the same class. There’s a chance you’ll be sharing a compartment with local travelers of either gender.
  • For a detailed look into the experience of travelling by overnight trains read more here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/india-trains-guide/
  • AUTO RICKSHAWS:
  • On this trip, we travel on the local style of transport called an auto-rickshaw. These small, motorised three-wheeled vehicles are a common form of transport in India and do not have seatbelts.
  • FLIGHTS:
  • Airlines in India are of excellent quality. Airports are becoming more modern (especially in the major and tourist cities). To enter the airport, you must have a copy of your flight ticket and passport. Schedule changes and delays do occur, especially when weather conditions make visibility poor.

Accommodation

  • ACCOMMODATION:
  • Some of the accommodation along the way is basic or simple, staying in local guesthouses and homestays. Some may have shared bathroom facilities with cold water only. We use a mixture of air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned rooms. Some areas of India experience daily load shedding. This is where the power may be turned off at certain times of the day and usually occurs for a few hours in the early afternoon. Most hotel properties have a restaurant or cafe serving local meals. Many restaurants and hotels do not serve alcohol for religious reasons or due to local laws.
  • SHOWERS:
  • Showers at some hotels only have hot water at peak times (usually morning and evening). Outside of these times, you may need to speak to reception to obtain hot water.
  • ROOM ISSUES:
  • If you have any issues with your room, please speak to the hotel and your tour leader right away rather than your travel agent so that the problem can be addressed without delay.
  • SLEEPER TRAINS IN INDIA:
  • Sleeper trains are clean and air-conditioned (fan-cooled at times), a great way to travel long distances and still get maximum time in each place. Depending on the route, we travel 2AC or 3AC class as not all classes are available on all routes. Due to the complexity of the ticket purchasing system and high demand for tickets, we are unable to offer upgrades to other classes.
  • Second Class or 2 Tier AC (2AC) carriages have 4 berths in the compartment section and 2 berths in the aisle bay and individual reading lights. Third Class or 3 Tier AC (3AC) has 6 berths in the compartment and 2 in the aisle bay. Both have curtains for privacy. There are no sinks or charging points in these classes. During the day, bunks are folded away and serve as seats. Toilet facilities are located at either end of the carriage. There is usually an Indian style squat toilet at one end and a western-style toilet at the other. You will need your own toilet paper or tissues and cleanliness will depend on the number of people using them.
  • Beds are padded bunks, with sheets, pillow and blanket provided. Some people prefer to bring and use their own sleeping sheet. Your luggage travels with you on the train, so packing light will make your journey more comfortable.
  • Many trains have a dining carriage or a food/snack cart that is brought through the carriages. There are also plenty of vendors selling tea, coffee, water and snacks during the journey, although the hygiene may not be up to standards you are used to at home.
  • Please note you may be sharing with other members of your group or locals on a mixed gender basis. Tickets are booked on a real-name basis using your passport details. We book for all members of the group at the same time, but unfortunately, this is no guarantee that we will be accommodated all together on the train. Your leader will do their best to swap with other travellers to allow people who booked together to travel together, but please be aware that this is not always possible. We may at times ask male travellers to swap with solo female travellers for safety considerations.

Important Information

  • 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 5 (Mudumalai National Park) and Day 7 (overnight train) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 2. Intrepid requires a copy of your scanned passport bio page at the time of booking to complete bookings for Ranthambhore National Park visit.
  • 3. This trip travels back to Delhi on the afternoon of Day 28 arriving into the capital around 11 pm. Please do not book departure flights out until at least 4 am on Day 29 to allow for delays.
  • 4. The Pushkar Camel Fair is held in late October or early November, please see the 'Climate and Seasonal Information' section of the Essential Trip Information for more detail.
  • 5. Hot air balloon flights are operated by Sky Waltz in Jaipur. Flights operate from September 1st to April 30th and last approximately 60 mins. Return transfers, tea and coffee plus light refreshments, and a certificate of flight are included in the cost. You can register your interest and pay your tour leader at your joining meeting on day 1 of your trip. Payment must be made by cash in either INR/AUD/USD/GBP only and is USD$260pp (subject to change). Flights are subject to availability and weather conditions (tickets are fully refundable in case of bad weather).
  • 6. As this is a combination trip, your group leader and the composition of your group may change on Day 15.
  • 7. Please provide your full name exactly as it appears on your passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for flight tickets. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases, you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket.

Mode of Transport

  • TRANSPORT IN INDIA:
  • Main roads in India are usually very busy with an assortment of vehicles from the biggest trucks (who always have right of way) down to bikes (and animals!). Overtaking on blind corners at speed is common as is the total use of the horn as a form of communication. Our leaders have complete authority to remove groups from local transport if the driver is not driving safely. Drivers of our private vehicles are experienced and well trained. if you are uncomfortable with your driver, please always let your tour leader know immediately. Please ensure you wear your seat belt at all times.
  • TRAVEL TIMES:
  • Distances in India do not reflect the driving time and to cover 100km may take much longer than you would expect at home, even if much of the route is on a highway.
  • TRAINS:
  • India has a massive network of trains and millions of people travel by rail every day. Trains often travel the length of the country over several days. Trains are a great way to see the countryside and get you away from the busy road system. Delays and cancellations are common on trains. Your tour leader will check the train status to see if there are delays and will do their best to keep you informed of any changes.
  • From December to February, delays are more common, especially in the north of the country due to fog. It’s not uncommon for trains to be delayed for up to 12 hours. On occasion, your trip will may to be rerouted to allow for these delays. Your tour leader in conjunction with our local office will advise any changes to the itinerary.
  • The Indian Railway system is one of the largest railway networks in the world and quite complex. Seat allocation is completely computerized on a centralized reservation system and we do not have control over seat allocations. Despite booking tickets months in advance of a departure your group's seats, or sleeping berths on overnight trains, maybe spread out within one carriage or multiple carriages of the same class. There’s a chance you’ll be sharing a compartment with local travelers of either gender.
  • For a detailed look into the experience of travelling by overnight trains read more here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/india-trains-guide/
  • AUTO RICKSHAWS:
  • On this trip, we travel on the local style of transport called an auto-rickshaw. These small, motorised three-wheeled vehicles are a common form of transport in India and do not have seatbelts.
  • FLIGHTS:
  • Airlines in India are of excellent quality. Airports are becoming more modern (especially in the major and tourist cities). To enter the airport, you must have a copy of your flight ticket and passport. Schedule changes and delays do occur, especially when weather conditions make visibility poor.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    Trains are a great way to see the countryside and get you away from the busy road system. Keep in mind that delays and cancellations are common, so a little patience will go a long way during your tour. This trip involves some long journeys by train, including overnight, so please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.

    From December to February, delays are more common, especially in the north of the country due to fog. It’s not uncommon for trains to be delayed for up to 12 hours. Your tour leader in conjunction with our local office will advise any changes to the itinerary.

    Sleeper trains are clean and air-conditioned. Beds are padded berths with sheets, pillow, and blanket provided (although some people prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet). Please note that you may be sharing with locals of the same or opposite gender.

    Part of travelling with Intrepid means respecting local cultures and sensibilities. That way you get the most out of your interactions with local people and environments. Please bring clothes that cover the arms and pants/skirts that go past the knees. A light scarf is also a good idea for covering shoulders and arms when it’s hot.

    It’s important to prepare for hot sticky temperatures during the day and cooler climates in the evening, particularly in Ootacamund (AKA Ooty), Mudumalai, and Periyar National Parks. Packing layers is one of the best ways to tackle this disparity in weather.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

Friday - Friday

Nov 29, 2024 - Dec 27, 2024
$3870 $3483

Operator discount: -$387

Friday - Friday

Dec 06, 2024 - Jan 03, 2025
$4055

Friday - Friday

Dec 13, 2024 - Jan 10, 2025
$4335

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 15, 2024 - Jan 12, 2025
$4335 $4118

Operator discount: -$217

Friday - Friday

Jan 03, 2025 - Jan 31, 2025
$3905

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 12, 2025 - Feb 09, 2025
$3870

Friday - Friday

Jan 17, 2025 - Feb 14, 2025
$3945

Friday - Friday

Jan 24, 2025 - Feb 21, 2025
$4135

Friday - Friday

Jan 31, 2025 - Feb 28, 2025
$3945

Friday - Friday

Feb 07, 2025 - Mar 07, 2025
$3985

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 09, 2025 - Mar 09, 2025
$3985 $3786

Operator discount: -$199

Tuesday - Tuesday

Feb 11, 2025 - Mar 11, 2025
$3985

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 16, 2025 - Mar 16, 2025
$3985

Tuesday - Tuesday

Feb 18, 2025 - Mar 18, 2025
$4175

Thursday - Thursday

Feb 20, 2025 - Mar 20, 2025
$4135

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 23, 2025 - Mar 23, 2025
$4175

Tuesday - Tuesday

Feb 25, 2025 - Mar 25, 2025
$4175

Friday - Friday

Feb 28, 2025 - Mar 28, 2025
$4135

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 02, 2025 - Mar 30, 2025
$4175

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 09, 2025 - Apr 06, 2025
$4135

Friday - Friday

Mar 14, 2025 - Apr 11, 2025
$4135

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 16, 2025 - Apr 13, 2025
$3985 $3786

Operator discount: -$199

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 23, 2025 - Apr 20, 2025
$3985

Friday - Friday

Mar 28, 2025 - Apr 25, 2025
$4025

Friday - Friday

Apr 04, 2025 - May 02, 2025
$3830

Friday - Friday

Apr 11, 2025 - May 09, 2025
$3830

Friday - Friday

Apr 18, 2025 - May 16, 2025
$3830

Friday - Friday

Sep 05, 2025 - Oct 03, 2025
$3830

Friday - Friday

Sep 12, 2025 - Oct 10, 2025
$3830

Friday - Friday

Sep 19, 2025 - Oct 17, 2025
$3830

Friday - Friday

Sep 26, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025
$3830

Friday - Friday

Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025
$3985

Friday - Friday

Oct 10, 2025 - Nov 07, 2025
$3985

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 12, 2025 - Nov 09, 2025
$3985

Tuesday - Tuesday

Oct 14, 2025 - Nov 11, 2025
$3985

Friday - Friday

Oct 17, 2025 - Nov 14, 2025
$4135

Friday - Friday

Oct 24, 2025 - Nov 21, 2025
$4135

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 26, 2025 - Nov 23, 2025
$4135

Friday - Friday

Oct 31, 2025 - Nov 28, 2025
$4135

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 02, 2025 - Nov 30, 2025
$4135

Friday - Friday

Nov 07, 2025 - Dec 05, 2025
$4135

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 09, 2025 - Dec 07, 2025
$4135

Friday - Friday

Nov 14, 2025 - Dec 12, 2025
$4135

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 16, 2025 - Dec 14, 2025
$4135

Friday - Friday

Nov 21, 2025 - Dec 19, 2025
$3985

Friday - Friday

Nov 28, 2025 - Dec 26, 2025
$3985

Tuesday - Tuesday

Dec 02, 2025 - Dec 30, 2025
$3985

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 07, 2025 - Jan 04, 2026
$3985

Friday - Friday

Dec 12, 2025 - Jan 09, 2026
$3985

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 14, 2025 - Jan 11, 2026
$3830

Friday - Friday

Dec 19, 2025 - Jan 16, 2026
$3830

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 21, 2025 - Jan 18, 2026
$3830

Friday - Friday

Dec 26, 2025 - Jan 23, 2026
$3830

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 28, 2025 - Jan 25, 2026
$3830

Friday - Friday

Jan 02, 2026 - Jan 30, 2026
$4020

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 04, 2026 - Feb 01, 2026
$4020

Friday - Friday

Jan 09, 2026 - Feb 06, 2026
$4020

Friday - Friday

Jan 16, 2026 - Feb 13, 2026
$4020

Friday - Friday

Jan 23, 2026 - Feb 20, 2026
$4020

Friday - Friday

Jan 30, 2026 - Feb 27, 2026
$4020

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 01, 2026 - Mar 01, 2026
$4185

Friday - Friday

Feb 06, 2026 - Mar 06, 2026
$4185

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 08, 2026 - Mar 08, 2026
$4185

Tuesday - Tuesday

Feb 10, 2026 - Mar 10, 2026
$4185

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 15, 2026 - Mar 15, 2026
$4185

Tuesday - Tuesday

Feb 17, 2026 - Mar 17, 2026
$4185

Thursday - Thursday

Feb 19, 2026 - Mar 19, 2026
$4340

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 22, 2026 - Mar 22, 2026
$4340

Tuesday - Tuesday

Feb 24, 2026 - Mar 24, 2026
$4340

Friday - Friday

Feb 27, 2026 - Mar 27, 2026
$4340

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 01, 2026 - Mar 29, 2026
$4340

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 08, 2026 - Apr 05, 2026
$4340

Friday - Friday

Mar 13, 2026 - Apr 10, 2026
$4340

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 15, 2026 - Apr 12, 2026
$4340

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 22, 2026 - Apr 19, 2026
$4185

Friday - Friday

Mar 27, 2026 - Apr 24, 2026
$4185

Friday - Friday

Apr 03, 2026 - May 01, 2026
$4020

Friday - Friday

Apr 10, 2026 - May 08, 2026
$4020

Friday - Friday

Apr 17, 2026 - May 15, 2026
$4020

Friday - Friday

Sep 04, 2026 - Oct 02, 2026
$4020

Friday - Friday

Sep 11, 2026 - Oct 09, 2026
$4020

Friday - Friday

Sep 25, 2026 - Oct 23, 2026
$4020

Friday - Friday

Oct 02, 2026 - Oct 30, 2026
$4185

Friday - Friday

Oct 09, 2026 - Nov 06, 2026
$4185

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 11, 2026 - Nov 08, 2026
$4185

Friday - Friday

Oct 16, 2026 - Nov 13, 2026
$4340

Friday - Friday

Oct 23, 2026 - Nov 20, 2026
$4340

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 25, 2026 - Nov 22, 2026
$4340

Friday - Friday

Oct 30, 2026 - Nov 27, 2026
$4340

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 01, 2026 - Nov 29, 2026
$4340

Friday - Friday

Nov 06, 2026 - Dec 04, 2026
$4340

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 08, 2026 - Dec 06, 2026
$4340

Friday - Friday

Nov 13, 2026 - Dec 11, 2026
$4185

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 15, 2026 - Dec 13, 2026
$4185

Friday - Friday

Nov 20, 2026 - Dec 18, 2026
$4185

Friday - Friday

Nov 27, 2026 - Dec 25, 2026
$4185

Tuesday - Tuesday

Dec 01, 2026 - Dec 29, 2026
$4020

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 06, 2026 - Jan 03, 2027
$4020

Friday - Friday

Dec 11, 2026 - Jan 08, 2027
$4020

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 13, 2026 - Jan 10, 2027
$4020

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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