18-day India Adventure Tour
18-day India Adventure Tour
18-day India Adventure Tour
18 Days Starting in Delhi, India and ending in Goa
Visiting: New Delhi, Delhi, Varanasi, Agra, Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Mumbai, Goa
Tour operator:
Recommended For:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 20
Age range:
18-60
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Dive into the rich, vibrant and diverse culture of India with our 18-day adventure tour. Covering both the north and the west of the country, this India adventure tour has it all. Explore India’s iconic major landmarks, World Heritage ancient ruins, glorious Goan beaches and abundance of delicious food. From bustling cities to rural villages, our Adventure Leaders take you off-the-beaten-track as you explore all that India has to offer.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Welcome To New Delhi!
Location: New Delhi
Accommodation: Hostel
Welcome to New Delhi – and the start of your India adventure tour! You’ll meet your group and Adventure Leader this morning, where you’ll get a trip briefing to lay out your forthcoming travels, as well as tips on staying safe in India.
After this, it’s off to your first unmissable experience – a Hindi language lesson. Your local guide will take you through the basics and key phrases that you’ll need for your next two weeks. From there, it’s off for a tour of the city’s highlights. You’ll visit Old Delhi and its temples and spice markets, Connaught Place in the downtown district, and the beautiful Sri Bangla Sahib Gurdwara.
This evening, explore the area to grab yourself some dinner – and don’t forget to ask your Adventure Leader for tips!
Day 2 : From Delhi To Varanasi
Location: Delhi, Varanasi
Accommodation: Hostel
Today is yours to spend as you see fit. However, we’d recommend spending a relaxing morning at the Lodhi Garden, followed by a visit to the Khan Market. Be sure to seek out the India Gate, and the Aagrasen ki Baoli – the oldest monument in Central Delhi.
This afternoon, you’ve got plenty of options to explore. Why not pay a visit to:
- Aksardham, a beautiful Hindu temple
- Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Mehrauli area of Delhi
- Raj Ghat, a memorial complex dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi
- The Lotus Temple, whose iconic design makes it a must-see
- Humayun’s Tomb, the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent
Make sure you’re back in good time, though, as you’ll be travelling overnight on the night train to Varanasi – destination #2 on our India adventure tour!
Day 3 : Explore Varanasi
Location: Varanasi
Accommodation: Hostel
After arriving in Varanasi this morning, you’ll transfer to your next accommodation where you’ll have some time to rest and freshen up. You’ll then meet your Adventure Leader for your second Hindi language lesson, where you can build on what you’ve already learned.
If you’re feeling bright enough, you can opt to pay a visit to the Sarnath Buddhist and Hindu archaelogical site. According to tradition, Sarnath is where Buddha taught his first sermon, and is today home to some truly remarkable preserved artefacts and sites.
You’ll all meet up this evening, though, for your next unmissable experience. What better way to greet Varanasi than with a Ghat boat tour, complete with the Ganga Aarti ceremony? After the ceremony, you’ll disembark at the Dasawamedh Ghat, where you can opt to join your group for dinner before returning to get some well deserved sleep!
Day 4 : All Aboard The Sunrise Boat Tour In Varanasi
Location: Varanasi, Agra
Accommodation: Hostel
Your second day in Varanasi starts on the water again, as you can opt to join your group for a sunrise boat tour to grab some truly spectacular views. After this, you’ll meet back up with your Adventure Leader where you’ll have the opportunity to ask them any burning questions.
This afternoon, you might opt to join your group for a walk around the old market in Varanasi. This is a great way to close out your time in Varanasi before you move onto your next destination via night train – Agra!
Day 5 : Head To Agra Fort And The Baby Taj Today!
Location: Agra
Accommodation: Hostel
After arriving in Agra this morning, transfer to your new accommodation to get some well-deserved rest. If you need time at your leisure, you can rest up today. Otherwise, why not join us for an optional trip this afternoon? Head out to Agra Fort and the Baby Taj for a glimpse of Agra’s spectacular architecture.
If you’d like, this evening join your group for dinner and drinks at the fabulous Salt Café. You might want to take it easy, though – you’ve got an early start!
Day 6 : It's Time For... The Taj Mahal!
Location: Agra, Jaipur
Accommodation: Hostel
Before we head off to Jaipur, it’s up early for a sunrise visit to the most famous site in India – the Taj Mahal! Explore this incredible complex as the sun rises, and be back in time to grab your private transfer to Jaipur.
After checking in here, jump on the bus to Nahagarth Fort, which features one of the most amazing viewpoints from which to watch the sun set. If you’re hungry, join your group for dinner this evening.
Day 7 : Catch The Balloon Safari In Jaipur
Location: Jaipur
Accommodation: Hostel
Are you an early riser? If so, you might want to capitalise on this with one of the most exciting options to start the day: a balloon safari! Otherwise, wake up in your own time this morning and grab breakfast, before opting to visit the spectacular Amber Palace, which is built entirely of yellow and pink sandstone.
This afternoon is yours to spend as you see fit. You might want to explore the City Palace and the next-door Hawa Mahal, the Jantar Mantar astronomical observatory, or get your fill of shopping at the Bapu Bazaar. After this, you can opt to meet your group for an early evening food court tour to grab some local delicacies, before exploring the nightlife that Jaipur has to offer.
Day 8 : Visit The Captivating Monkey Temple
Location: Jaipur, Jaisalmer
Accommodation: Hostel
Another early start, as you’re up with the birds for another unmissable activity – a trip to the Monkey Temple! This temple is an incredible site that’s often a Hindu pilgrimage, and features incredible architecture, beautiful landscapes… and monkeys!
For the rest of the morning, you can either spend it at your resting up, exploring the Pink City, or taking part in a fabulous dance class!
This afternoon, we’ll transfer to Jaipur station, bound for the next stop on our India adventure tour: Jaisalmer!
Day 9 : The Desert Adventure Begins
Location: Jaisalmer
Accommodation: Camp
Meals Included: Dinner
You’ll arrive in Jaisalmer this morning. You can head to a local hostel for a rest and to grab some breakfast, before opting to join us as we explore the fascinating Jaisalmer Fort. This amazing structure is 250 feet tall in places, and parts of it date back to the mid-1600s! You can then opt to head to a remarkable viewpoint in the local area – Gadsisar Lake!
It’s a flying visit though, as we’re taking you into the Thar desert for your next unmissable activity – and arguably, the jewel of your India adventure tour. Transfer by jeep into the desert, where you’ll take part in a camel trek that leads you to the site of your camp. Here, you’ll have dinner al fresco, and set up your comfortable beds, ready for a night sleeping under the stars.
Day 10 : Take A Tour Of The Blue City
Location: Jaisalmer
Accommodation: Hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
There’s no escaping the sunrise this morning, as it’ll wake you gently from your spot in the desert. After preparing a breakfast and packing up, you’ll head back to the city, ready to transfer to Jodhpur.
After your private transfer arrives, you’ll check in to your next hostel and drop your things. We’ll then take you on tour to orientate yourself in the Blue City, where you’ll see landmarks like the Clock Tower and the fascinating Toorji Ka Jhalra – the ancient step well.
This evening, feel free to join your group near Stepwell for a drink.
Day 11 : Try A Cooking Class Or Zipline In Jodhpur!
Location: Jodhpur
Accommodation: Hostel
Today’s a free day to spend as you see fit! If you’d like to join us for an optional activity, however, you might opt for:
- A cooking class, where you’ll learn about the history of Indian food and its place in wider culture. You’ll develop an appreciation for the flavours of true traditional Indian cuisine.
- A pulse-raising Flying Fox zip line experience! Whiz across the city and the fort, getting both incredible views and a real adrenaline rush.
This evening, why not meet your group for a drink atop the hostel?
Day 12 : Movie Night In Mumbai
Location: Mumbai
Accommodation: Hostel
Late morning today, you’ll fly to your next destination on the India adventure tour: Mumbai!
You’ll spend the day transferring to your accommodation, arriving in the late afternoon – just in time for movie night! This evening, why not grab a view of the city from a roof top bar?
Day 13 : Explore The Gateway Of India And The Coloba District
Location: Mumbai
Accommodation: Hostel
If you’d like to learn more about local life in Mumbai, opt to join us this morning for a tour of the Dharavi Slum. You’ll also get the chance to visit the Dhobi Ghat Malaxmi – the largest outdoor laundry in the entire world!
This afternoon, meet up with your group for an unmissable tour of Mumbai. Along the way, you’ll explore must-see sites like the Gateway of India and the Coloba District. In the evening, you might opt to spend your last night with the group exploring all the exciting nightlife that Mumbai has to offer.
Day 14 : Explore Mumbai
Location: Mumbai
Accommodation: Hostel
This morning, you can opt to join us for a trip to the Mani Bhavan Gandhi Museum, dedicated to the life and works of Gandhi. Otherwise, your day is at your leisure – and you have a free afternoon to explore Mumbai as you see fit. Be sure to ask your Adventure Leader for recommendations!
Day 15 : Introduction To Goa
Location: Mumbai, Goa
Accommodation: Hostel
This morning we head to the airport, bound for the final stop on your India adventure tour – Goa!
You’ll arrive in the afternoon, in time to get checked into your accommodation, ready to enjoy a free evening exploring the beautiful city.
Day 16 : Enjoy Goa's Golden Sands Today!
Location: Goa
Accommodation: Hostel
Goa’s known for its incredible stretches of beach, so it’s only fitting that we give you a full day to explore them! Spend your free day today on the golden sands, exploring the local area.
Then, get your heart rate up over dinner! You can opt to join us for an exciting fly dining experience, where you’ll eat, drink and be merry… 50 meters above the ground! Then, once back on the ground, you might want to see what Goa’s nightlife scene has to offer.
Day 17 : Goa
Location: Goa
Accommodation: Hostel
After grabbing yourself breakfast, you’ve got the option to join your group for an exciting tour of the city! Then, if you’re still full of energy, you can opt to join an amazing kayaking experience in the mid-afternoon.
Finally, this evening your time is yours to do as you please – make the most of your last night in India!
Day 18 : Farewell!
Location: Goa
Today marks the end of your amazing tour across India! You’ll bid farewell to your group, ready to head home.
What's Included
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Accommodation
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All Domestic Transportation (including internal flights)
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Fully Guided
With local bilingual guide
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Entrance Fees
For all included activities: Sri Bangla Sahib Gurdwara Temple visit (Delhi) Hindi Language Lesson (Delhi) Old Delhi Tour (Delhi) New Delhi Tour (Delhi) Watch Ganga Aarti Ceremony (Varanasi) Sunset Ghat Boat Tour (Varanasi) Taj Mahal Sunrise Visit (Agra) Hindi Language Lesson #2 (Jaipur) Monkey Temple (Jaipur) Desert Camping – including camel trek, campfire (seasonal), overnight stay under the stars, and watching the sunrise. (Jaisalmer) Blue City Orientation Walk (Jodhpur) Mumbai City Walking Tour (Mumbai)
What's Not Included
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Airport Transfers at Destination
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Country Entry Visas
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International Travel
Optional Extras
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Pre-Trip Night in Delhi (Twin/Double)*
*Price is per room.
Check out our Q&As
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Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
No, but details will be provided pre-departure.
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Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
No.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Majority of our clients are solo travellers and our prices are based on sharing in dorm style rooms. We do offer single room upgrades for those who do not wish to share a room.
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Can you guarantee same-sex dorm rooms?
We always strive to ensure the highest level of comfort and convenience for our valued clients during their travels with us. However, for our tours in Asia, we cannot guarantee same-sex dorm rooms in the hostels we use, particularly during high season, such as the cherry blossom season in Japan. Please rest assured that we do our utmost to accommodate our clients' preferences wherever possible. However, the availability of same-sex dorm rooms ultimately depends on the policies of the hostels we work with. In some cases, different genders may be allocated to the same room due to limited availability.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
Please speak to our sales team as soon as possible to see how we can help.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
All our accommodation is check regularly to make sure it's a safe and clean environment.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
We are not perfect but we aim to be, that is why year on year we aim to increase the proportion of local businesses we work with as well as reduce the average carbon footprint of all of our group tour adventures. We do this by measuring our performance and making small but positive changes to how we operate.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
You will receive a booking pack with all the pick up times, accommodation and activities included.
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Who should I contact in the event of an emergency on tour?
Depending upon where you are travelling, the following emergency contact numbers are available for The Dragon Trip: China: +86 21 2206 4018 Japan: +81 50 1742 2696 South Korea (can only be used in Korea): 00308 491 0186 Singapore: +65 3158 0233 Southeast Asia, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka: +84 284 458 1410
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Passport Details
For most destinations we will require the details to be submitted on our online form (the link for which will be provided post-booking and prior to your travel date). Please note that this needs to be complete & accurate to avoid any late update fees for accommodation and transport bookings. IMPORTANT NOTE: China tours is the only destination where we require an actual copy of your passport. We require these in order to book travel tickets for clients and passports are used during the check-in.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
The Dragon Trip has been trading since March 2011
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Yes, although you will have to make your own way to where the group is heading to out of your own expense.
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Why do the tours have an age range?
While we strive to cater to a diverse range of travellers, it is important to consider whether the tour aligns with your expectations and preferences. We want your travel experience to be enjoyable and fulfilling, and we believe that selecting a tour that matches your age group and interests is crucial in achieving that. Our tours are very active and jam-packed, including early starts and getting on and off local transportation. There will be a lot of walking, and activities such as cycling. You could be walking up to 20,000 steps per day!
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Our tours are aimed at fun, out-going and open minded individuals. We typically get people aged between 18 to 55 travelling on our trips. Feel free to contact us to see the ages of the people who are booked already. Some of our trips have an upper age limit because of the pace of the tour, style of accommodation and the average age of the group - please do not be offended if we check your age and perhaps recommend a different itinerary. Our premium trips are suitable for most.
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Low Deposit
The Dragon Trip requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 65 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of the dragon trip charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.