Premium India and Sri Lanka

Premium India and Sri Lanka

132 Views
19 Days From

$6730

$6394

Premium India and Sri Lanka

19 Days Starting in Delhi and ending in Colombo

Visiting: Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Lucknow, Varanasi, Negombo, Negombo to Kurunegala to Habarana, Habarana, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Colombo

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

HPPGC

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99 years

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

From: $6730 $6394 Operator discount: -$336

NB: Prices correct on 25-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

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

Tour Overview

Welcome to South Asia, where ancient religions, deep heritage and wild wonders are laced through cultural riches and spice-laden cuisine. On this 19-day Premium adventure you’ll discover the Pink City of Jaipur, witness the Mughal splendours of Delhi and Agra, wildlife-spot in Minneriya National Park soak up the ambience of holy Varanasi, explore the ancient ruins of Habarana, sip tea in Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, and taste culinary delights in Colombo. Local leaders will bring the magic of India and Sri Lanka to light, from lavish palaces to vibrant bazaars and the incomparable Taj Mahal. Packed with hotspots and hidden gems, discover the cultural heart of India and Sri Lanka.

Highlights

  • Discover the beauty in famed structures, from Jaipur’s Amber Fort and Royal City Palace, to Agra’s Red Fort and iconic Taj Mahal, and the ruins and stupas of Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa.

  • Taste the best of Indian and Sri Lankan cuisine during Exclusive Experiences, including a street food tour in Agra, a wonderful meal in the home of a Brahmin family in Jaipur, a cooking demo with a local grandmother in Polonnaruwa, and a Spice Garden visit in Matale.

  • See wildlife in its natural habitat with safaris through Ranthambore National Park in India and Minneriya National Park in Sri Lanka, in search of sloth bears, leopards, elusive tigers, tropical birds, and elephants.

  • Historical Feature Stays allow you to experience history first hand, staying at family owned heritage hotel in Jaipur and a colonial-era mansion with a new sustainable lease on life in Nuwara Eliya.

  • Take part in Exclusive Experiences to remember – visit to a royal haveli in Jaipur and hear the stories of its owner’s ancestors, cruise down the Ganges at sunset accompanied by local musicians, and get an immersive look at rural life in Ambagasthenna.

  • Historical Feature Stays allow you to experience history first hand, staying at family owned heritage hotel in Jaipur and a historic mansion with a new sustainable lease on life in Nuwara Eliya.

  • Take part in Exclusive Experiences to remember – cruise down the Ganges at sunset accompanied by local musicians, and get an immersive look at rural life in Ambagasthenna.

Places You'll See

Delhi

Jaipur

Agra

Delhi

Jaipur

Agra

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Delhi

Location: Delhi

Accommodation: The Grand Hotel or similar

Meals Included: dinner

Namaste! Welcome to India. When you arrive at Delhi Airport, you’ll be collected and transferred to your hotel. Your adventure then begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. Until then, you can explore this exciting capital city. Filled with historical landmarks, museums, galleries and endless bazaars, there’s plenty to keep you entertained in Delhi. After your meeting, head out for dinner at one of Delhi’s oldest restaurants. Having opened its doors more than 80 years ago, the iconic restaurant is credited with introducing India to ice cream and fine dining.

Included Activities:
-Delhi - Welcome dinner

Day 2: Delhi

Location: Delhi

Accommodation: The Grand Hotel or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

To get your bearings in Old Delhi, start the day with a leader-led tour of the most ancient part of the city. Your leader will help you navigate the metro system so you can then explore the impressive Mughal architecture on foot. It’s not Delhi without a traffic jam, so hop aboard a traditional rickshaw and weave your way around the streets surrounding the Chandi Chowk marketplace. Stop by India’s oldest and largest mosque, the Jama Masjid, before heading into the Sikh temple of Sheeshganj Gurudwara to observe the capital’s spiritual side. You have a free evening ahead to relax and recharge. Tap into your leader’s local expertise for food and activity recommendations that match your mood.

Included Activities:
-Old Delhi City Tour
-Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
-Delhi - Jama Masjid (Shoe Keeper)
-Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque

Day 3: Agra

Location: Agra

Accommodation: Grand Mercure Hotel or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

It’s time to head south to Agra. After a scenic four-hour drive, settle into your new hotel before visiting India’s most iconic landmark – the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. A tribute to his belated wife, Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned this famous monument in 1632 to house her remains. Intrigued? Your Taj Mahal guide will illuminate its fascinating history as you stroll the grounds at sunset. You’re likely familiar with North Indian cuisine (butter chicken anyone?), and tonight, your local expert will take you to unknown places on a street food tour. Stop by a 19th-century shop serving up age-old recipes from the Braj region of India for dinner tonight, where you’ll visit hyperlocal eateries that most tourists never get to see.

Included Activities:
-Agra - Taj Mahal
-Agra - Expert-led street food tour (as dinner)

Day 4: Jaipur

Location: Jaipur

Accommodation: Hotel Narain Niwas Palace (Feature Stay) or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Start the day with a visit to Agra Fort – widely considered one of the finest-looking forts in India. Learn how Akbar built a fortress and prison out of red sandstone in 1565, and then Shah Jahan converted and added to the fort to transform it into a palace. After, you’ll journey to Jaipur – the capital of Rajasthan – for your Feature Stay at the Hotel Narain Niwas Palace. This heritage hotel, managed by the same family since its opening in 1928, exudes the charm of a traditional family home while showcasing opulent touches at every turn – think chandeliers, stained glass windows and peacocks roaming the grounds. Later, join your leader on a walking tour through the crowded streets and wander bazaars filled with handcrafted textiles, folk art and the local specialty of semi-precious stones. Conclude the evening with a home-cooked dinner in the home of a local family and make the most of your time with your hosts, learning about their way of life.

Included Activities:
-Agra - Agra Fort Visit
-Jaipur - Leader-led orientation walk
-Jaipur - Home-cooked dinner

Day 5: Jaipur

Location: Jaipur

Accommodation: Hotel Narain Niwas Palace (Feature Stay) or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Another day, another fort – but this time it’s Amber Fort, the crown jewel of Jaipur. Your leader will share the stories of a fallen empire as you explore ornate rooms, murals, frescoed arches and delicate jali work. Head to the striking City Palace – a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Tour the grounds and learn about its construction by the founder of Jaipur. Later in the afternoon, hop on a rickshaw and travel to a royal haveli. Havelis are royal mansions that were ornately decorated as a display of wealth, many of which exist across the city today. You’ll meet the owner of a haveli for a tour of the property as he shares photos and stories of his ancestors who once ruled the nearby provinces.

Included Activities:
-Jaipur - Amber Fort
-Jaipur - City Palace
-Jaipur - Private Royal Haveli visit with owner

Optional Activities:
-Jaipur - Balloon Safari
-Jaipur - Jantar Mantar Observatory

Day 6: Lucknow

Location: Lucknow

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Enjoy a leisurely morning before flying east to Lucknow – the capital of India’s largest region, Uttar Pradesh. When you arrive, your leader will guide the group on an afternoon orientation walk to help you get acquainted with your new surroundings. This evening, join your group for dinner at a very special establishment – a restaurant that supports and empowers acid attack survivors. These courageous women, once too scared to leave their homes due to the physical and emotional scars of their attacks, have found refuge and a source of income through their work at the cafe.


Included Activities:
-Lucknow - Orientation Walk
-Lucknow - Sheroes Dinner

Day 7: Lucknow

Location: Lucknow

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Seize the day with a morning tour of Lucknow, where your leader will show you some of the city’s best spots. This might include a stop at the intricate Bara Imambara – a hall built in 1784 for Shia Muslims. Its labyrinthine layout of narrow passages and staircases is best navigated with the help of a knowledgeable local. If you were impressed by Lucknow’s cuisine last night, you’ll be delighted with this afternoon’s cooking class. Discover the culinary secrets of Lucknowites, gaining skills that you can hopefully put to good use at home! For dinner, maybe try to find somewhere serving Tunday Kebabi (a Lucknow delicacy that allegedly contains 160 spices).

Included Activities:
-Lucknow City Tour
-Lucknow – Awadhi Cooking Class

Day 8: Varanasi

Location: Varanasi

Accommodation: Ramada Katesar or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast

It’s an early start today, but for good reason – no trip to India is complete without a scenic train ride. The journey to Varanasi offers a unique glimpse into the heart of the countryside, all from the comfort of your seat. When you’ve checked into your hotel, join the group for a walking tour of the city widely regarded as India’s spiritual capital. In the evening, set sail on a sunset cruise on the Ganges. You’ll be joined by local musicians on board, who will play as you watch the flower and candle ceremony – an experience that will surely be etched in your memory long after your time in India is over.

Included Activities:
-Orientation Walk in Varanasi
-Varanasi - Evening Ganga aarti with musicians on boat
-Varanasi - Ganges candle flower ceremony

Day 9: Varanasi

Location: Varanasi

Accommodation: Ramada Katesar or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Early risers, this one’s for you – embark on a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, where your leader will explain the significance of India’s most sacred river while gliding past the many ghats and temples on its banks. After, decide your own schedule before coming together again at Sarnath – one of the four main Buddhist pilgrimage destinations. The site is where Buddha preached his message of the path to enlightenment and features several stupas and museums to explore.

Included Activities:
-Varanasi - Sunrise Ganges boat trip
-Sarnath Museum Visit
-Sarnath Stupa Visit

Day 10: Delhi

Location: Delhi

Accommodation: The Grand Hotel or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast

It’s the penultimate day today and time to return to Delhi. When you land, the afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure. There are plenty of sites you may have missed the first time around, like Humayun’s Tomb – a garden tomb dating back to 1570 – or Qutb Minar, the highest tower in India. Your leader can help you book any activities you wish to do before your final dinner as a group. You’ll head to a beautiful haveli dating back to 1887. Tuck into a feast of Mughlai cuisine, street food dishes and kebabs in a historical setting – the perfect finale to your Indian adventure.

Included Activities:
-Farewell Dinner at Haveli Dharampura

Optional Activities:
-Delhi - Delhi Food Walk Urban Adventure
-Delhi - Humayun's Tomb
-Delhi - Qutub Minar
-Delhi - Red Fort
-Delhi - Home-Cooked Delhi Urban Adventure

Day 11: Negombo

Location: Negombo

Meals Included: dinner

Ayubowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka. When you arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, you’ll be met by an Intrepid representative and transferred to your hotel in nearby Negombo. You'll then have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your local leader and group members. If you arrive early, maybe relax on the beach or take a walk to get to know your surroundings. After your meeting, get to know your group a little better over a round of complementary cocktails and a welcome dinner of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine – prepare for rich scents, bold spices and deliciously unique flavours.

Included Activities:
-Complimentary Arrival Transfer
-Negombo - Welcome Dinner

Day 12: Negombo To Kurunegala To Habarana

Location: Negombo to Kurunegala to Habarana

Accommodation: Amaya Lake or similar (1 night)

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

This morning you’ll travel inland, driving northeast towards Habarana. On the way, stop at the Ridi Vihara shrine – a Buddhist cave temple dating back to the second century BC. It is said that there were almost 500 monks living in these hillside caves at its peak. Watch locals demonstrate ancient traditions and craft techniques, such as palm leaf writing and wood and stone carving, and explore the caves filled with Buddha statues and floral offerings. Share lunch at a local restaurant before travelling to Habarana – your home for the next three nights. When you’re settled into your hotel, the rest of the afternoon is free.

Included Activities:
-Ridigama - Ridi Viharaya shrine visit and cultural experience

Day 13: Habarana

Location: Habarana

Accommodation: Amaya Lake or similar (1 night)

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Early this morning, before the heat is too intense, head to Sigiriya (Lion Rock). One of Sri Lanka's premier sights, this dramatic rocky outcrop rising from the surrounding plains is topped by a ruined palace. Your leader will share stories of the ancient civilisation that once lived here as you climb – it's a steep hike but the far-reaching views from the top are worth it. Return to your hotel for a well-deserved breakfast and a relaxing morning. After lunch at a local house, make your way to the village of Muriya Kadawala, where you’ll learn about traditional Sri Lankan pottery techniques and try your hand at the craft yourself. You’ll also sample a local herbal drink accompanied by a piece of halapa (a sweet treat wrapped in kenda leaves). This afternoon is free for you to rest and recharge.

Included Activities:
-Muriya Kadawala Village - Pottery Making Experience
-Sigiriya - Lion Rock Fortress Visit

Day 14: Habarana

Location: Habarana

Accommodation: Amaya Lake or similar (1 night)

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

After breakfast, make your way to Polonnaruwa to continue your explorations of the cultural triangle. Hop on a bicycle to discover well-preserved temples, tombs and stupas in Polonnaruwa’s ancient Quadrangle complex – it’s not hard to imagine what this place looked like in all its former glory. Visit the remains of a seven-story royal palace, the rock temple of Gal Vihara and the statue of 12th century king Parakrama I. For lunch, you’ll visit a local grandmother’s house, who will show you how to make dhal curry and pol sambol from scratch – you'll even shred coconut yourself using a traditional scraper tool! This afternoon, head to Minneriya National Park to see Sri Lankan elephants in the wild. You're likely to spot plenty of these gentle giants around the watering hole, plus macaques, spot-billed pelicans and more.

Included Activities:
-Minneriya National Park - Entrance Fee
-Polonnaruwa - Bicycle Tour
-Polonnaruwa - Cooking demo and lunch

Day 15: Kandy

Location: Kandy

Accommodation: Amaya Hills or similar (1 night)

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today, you’ll travel to Kandy. Along the way, stop off in the city of Matale where you’ll visit a local spice garden and learn about the spices that have played such an important role in Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage. In Kandy, take a guided tour of the city, stopping to admire the Buddhist Sri Dalada Maligawa, otherwise known as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (the important shrine houses a relic of Buddha’s tooth, taken from his funeral pyre). Despite being Sri Lanka’s second largest city, Kandy is remarkably laid back. Spend your free evening searching for a taste bud-tingling curry, wandering around the glittering lake or enjoying an optional cultural dance performance.

Included Activities:
-Matale – Spice Garden Visit.
-Kandy - City Tour with the Temple of the Tooth

Optional Activities:
-Kandy - Cultural Dance Show

Day 16: Kandy

Location: Kandy

Accommodation: Amaya Hills or similar (1 night)

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

After a leisurely morning, drive to Ambagasthenna village, where hotel and tea plantation owner Mr Thilina will guide you around his neighbourhood. For lunch, feast on a delicious home-cooked meal made by Mr Thilina’s mother. You’ll visit the tea plantation, learn about the cultivation process and try a cup or two served the Sri Lankan way. He’ll share inside knowledge about local crops, sustainable farming, and ancient landscaping traditions. After such a culture-packed day, there’s only one way to end it – by cracking open a beer and watching the sunset from one of the best viewpoints in Sri Lanka.

Included Activities:
-Ambagasthenna - Tea Plantation and Sustainable Farm Tour
-Ambagasthenna - Village and Temple Tour
-Ambagasthenna - Sunset Viewing with Drinks

Day 17: Nuwara Eliya

Location: Nuwara Eliya

Meals Included: breaksfast

Depart Kandy and board a morning train bound for Nuwara Eliya. Nestled deep in tea plantation country, Nuwara Eliya sits at an elevation of 1800 m, giving it some of the coolest temperatures in Sri Lanka. Remnants of the region’s colonial past can be seen in the sculpted gardens and manor homes dotting the landscape today. When you arrive, take an orientation walk of Nuwara Eliya, wandering the peaceful shores of Gregory Lake. Check into the Grand Hotel – a gorgeous National Heritage Property and your Feature Stay for the night. Your rooms feature classic decor and modern amenities, but the hotel’s real charm is its sustainable approach – the owners have eliminated single-use plastic and are striving for a zero-waste future. Enjoy a high tea featuring pots of Ceylon black, green or spiced tea, plus finger sandwiches and sweet treats when you arrive.

Included Activities:
-Nuwara Eliya - High Tea
-Nanu Oya - Scenic Train Ride
-Nuwara Eliya - Orientation Tour

Day 18: Colombo

Location: Colombo

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Say goodbye to the green hills of Nuwara Eliya and make the journey to Sri Lanka’s coastal capital, Colombo. On the way, visit a tea factory and plantations near the town of Labukelle and stop for lunch at a local restaurant. After arriving in Colombo, take an orientation walk with your leader, who’ll show you Sri Lanka’s colonnaded old parliament building, the National Museum and the best spots for fairtrade souvenir shopping. Tonight, share a final farewell dinner with your group at Ceylon Curry Club – a modern restaurant focused on creating dishes that celebrate Sri Lankan spices, such as peanut-crusted tuna with gotu-kola (pennywort) sambol and fragrant vegetable curry.

Included Activities:
-Colombo - Farewell Dinner
-Colombo - Orientation Tour
-Labukelle - Tea Plantation and Factory Visit

Day 19: Colombo

Location: Colombo

Meals Included: breaksfast

Your trip comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you’d like to extend your stay in Colombo, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (14 nights), Feature Stay (3 nights)

  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer

  • Delhi - Welcome dinner

  • Agra - Taj Mahal

  • Agra - Expert-led street food tour (as dinner)

  • Agra - Agra Fort

  • Ranthambhore National Park - Morning Wildlife Safari

  • Ranthambhore National Park - Evening wildlife safari

  • Jaipur - Home-cooked dinner

  • Jaipur - Leader-led orientation walk

  • Jaipur - Amber Fort

show more

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 may need to be rerouted to allow for these delays. Your tour leader in conjunction with our local office will advise any changes to the itinerary.
  • 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.
  • AUTO RICKSHAWS
  • On this trip we may travel in a 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.

Accommodation

  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
  • Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
  • ACCOMMODATION
  • The hotel accommodation on this trip is in 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.
  • WIFI:
  • Generally, WiFi is available in most parts of India and at most of the accommodation we use. Sometimes it's free in the room, other times only available in reception or public areas. A general rule of thumb is the more expensive the hotel, the higher charge for WiFi access. Your group leader or local representative can assist locally in accessing the internet.
  • ISSUES:
  • If you have any issues with your room, please speak to the hotel and your group leader or local representative right away rather than your travel agent so that the problem can be addressed without delay.

Important Information

  • 1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
  • 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room?on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip?and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 3. This trip includes a domestic flight in India. The luggage allowance is 15kg for check in luggage and 7kg for carry on.

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 may need to be rerouted to allow for these delays. Your tour leader in conjunction with our local office will advise any changes to the itinerary.
  • 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.
  • AUTO RICKSHAWS
  • On this trip we may travel in a 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.

Accommodation

  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
  • Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
  • ACCOMMODATION
  • The hotel accommodation on this trip is in 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.
  • WIFI:
  • Generally, WiFi is available in most parts of India and at most of the accommodation we use. Sometimes it's free in the room, other times only available in reception or public areas. A general rule of thumb is the more expensive the hotel, the higher charge for WiFi access. Your group leader or local representative can assist locally in accessing the internet.
  • ISSUES:
  • If you have any issues with your room, please speak to the hotel and your group leader or local representativer right away rather than your travel agent so that the problem can be addressed without delay.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    In the summer months, Rajasthan can get very hot. Be sure to drink lots of water, pack light cotton clothing and use adequate skin protection.

    There are several early mornings on this trip, as many parts of India really come alive in the dawn light.

    It can get foggy between December and February, which can put a new spin on the already spectacular scenery. However, it may cause traffic congestion and delays.

    The Rock Fortress – or Lion Rock – of Sigiriya is spectacular. However, those with a fear of (or even an aversion to) heights may wish to sit the excursion out. Scaling the rock involves walking up lots of rough, narrow steps and tight walkways.

    There are a couple of long travel days on this trip. Journeys may take up to five hours but are a great opportunity to get to know locals, fellow travellers and the diverse scenery.

  • 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 - Tuesday

Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 23, 2025
$6730 $6394

Operator discount: -$336

Thursday - Monday

Sep 11, 2025 - Sep 29, 2025
$6730 $6394

Operator discount: -$336

Thursday - Monday

Sep 18, 2025 - Oct 06, 2025
$6730 $6394

Operator discount: -$336

Thursday - Monday

Oct 02, 2025 - Oct 20, 2025
$6730 $6394

Operator discount: -$336

Thursday - Monday

Oct 09, 2025 - Oct 27, 2025
$6730 $6394

Operator discount: -$336

Thursday - Monday

Oct 16, 2025 - Nov 03, 2025
$6730 $6394

Operator discount: -$336

Thursday - Monday

Oct 23, 2025 - Nov 10, 2025
$6730 $6394

Operator discount: -$336

Thursday - Monday

Oct 30, 2025 - Nov 17, 2025
$6730 $6394

Operator discount: -$336

Thursday - Monday

Nov 06, 2025 - Nov 24, 2025
$7000 $6650

Operator discount: -$350

Thursday - Monday

Nov 13, 2025 - Dec 01, 2025
$7000 $6650

Operator discount: -$350

Thursday - Monday

Nov 20, 2025 - Dec 08, 2025
$7000 $6650

Operator discount: -$350

Thursday - Monday

Nov 27, 2025 - Dec 15, 2025
$7000 $6650

Operator discount: -$350

Thursday - Monday

Dec 11, 2025 - Dec 29, 2025
$7270 $6906

Operator discount: -$364

Thursday - Monday

Dec 18, 2025 - Jan 05, 2026
$7270

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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