India North to South: Goa & The Golden Triangle

Main Destination India from $1,709.25 USD 28 Days Tour

Get ready to experience India from North to South on this epic adventure made for young travellers. Kick things off in the legendary Golden Triangle, where you’ll stand in awe of the Taj Mahal, explore the grand Amber Fort, and soak up the lakeside charm of Udaipur. Then, head south to the buzzing streets of Mumbai and the laid-back beaches of Goa. Sip a cold drink with your new travel crew, toast to adventure at hidden local bars, explore ancient ruins, and indulge in the mouthwatering flavours of every region along the way. Incredible sights, unreal food, and an amazing crew — this is India at its best.

Travel Style

18-to-Thirtysomethings

Service Level

Basic

Physical Grading

2 - Light

What's Included

Your G for Good Moment: Lunch at Theruvarom Women Empowerment Project, Alleppey
Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Discover Moment: Udaipur
Your Big Night Out Moment: Dance the Night Away, Goa
Your Big Night Out Moment: Ooty , Ooty
Your Local Living Moment: Alleppey Homestay, Alleppey
Your Big Night Out Moment: Kochi Nightlife, Kochi. Guided tour of the Taj Mahal and the Amber Fort. Orientation walks in Jaipur, Pushkar, Udaipur, and Mumbai. Visit to Gandhi Ashram. Village walk in rural Tordi Sagar. Sunrise at Savitri temple. Free time in Hampi, Ooty. Hampi Ruins Walking Tour. Anjaneya Temple Sunset. Devaraja Market Visit. Chamundi Hills Visit. Monolithic Bull Visit. Dodapetta Peak. Dodapetta Tea Factory. Fort Kochi Visit. Orientation walks in Alleppey, Kollam, and Fort Kochi. Morning ferry cruise on Alleppey's backwaters. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

What are the main highlights of this trip?

Explore the impressive Taj Mahal, Visit a desert Village, Discover Temples and holy places, Walk through the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, Chill out on the beaches of Goa, Explore the ancient wonders of the Hampi Ruins, Catch breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from Dodapetta Peak and Anjaneya Temple, Wander off the beaten path in Mysore with visits to Devaraja Market and Chamundi Hills, Relax in the calm backwaters, experience a local homestay, chill out on quiet beaches, explore ecosystems aboard an Alleppey ferry cruise, sample South Indian cuisine.

How large will the group be?

Max 18, avg 14.

What meals are included in this trip?

3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners

What are the modes of transportation on my trip?

4x4, Basic Overnight Train (beds), Local Bus, Plane, Train, Tuk-tuk, taxi, Private Vehicle.

Where will we stay during the trip?

Simple hotels or guesthouse (twin-share) (24 nts), homestay (1 nt), overnight train (2 nts).

Itinerary

Day 1

Delhi

Arrive at any time and welcome to India's bustling capital - Delhi!

Tonight, wander through the electric Karol Bagh market for your first night out; pick the best looking spot and cheers to new adventures and friends! Arriving early with a free day in Delhi? Opt to add the "Half Day Culinary Tour of Delhi" extra to your tour.

Day 2

Delhi/Āgra

Relax on the morning train to Agra while admiring the arid terrain and small towns. On arrival, check the famous Taj Mahal world wonder off your bucket list as you marvel at the iconic Mughal architecture. Immerse yourself in a guided tour and learn of the mausoleum's unique history. Opt to visit Baby Taj and the Agra Fort, the Taj’s less famous—but no less impressive—sister monument, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 3

Āgra/Jaipur

Today we take a bus (always an adventure itself in India) to the capital of Rajasthan — Jaipur. Clothed in sandstone pink stucco, Jaipur is known as the "Pink City" and is one of the most important heritage cities in India. It's home to India’s second most visited site, the Hawa Mahal, or "Palace of the Winds." Ride a cycle rickshaw to the markets and enjoy an orientation walk through the stalls. In your free time, opt to visit the City Palace, the observatory, or check out a song-and-dance Bollywood film in India's largest movie theatre.

Day 4

Jaipur

Embark on a guided tour of Amber Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site to check off your list. The Fort's sandstone walls are perched on a hill almost blending in with the terrain, besides perfectly reflecting in Maota Lake creating a mirage effect (and perfect photograph). Wander through the halls, courtyards, and palaces inside and admire the intricate details. Afterward, head back to Jaipur and spend the free afternoon exploring with your fellow travellers and see where the night takes you. Admire the city from above by pre-booking the Jaipur Balloon Ride when booking your tour.

Day 5

Jaipur/Tordi Sāgar

Ride to peaceful Tordi Sāgar and dive into rural life by visiting local potters, cobblers, and markets on a guided walk through the village. If you're feeling athletic, join in on a cricket match with some local players. For lunch, get a taste of rural village life over a traditional lunch. In your free time, opt to bounce around with your new friends during a jeep safari or camel cart ride to the dunes for sunset. Head out for a hike in the hills or get a henna tattoo from local women. Tordi Sāgar is your oyster! If you want to see more of Jaipur before departing, pre-book the Cycle Tour and explore the city from a morning perspective.

Day 6

Tordi Sāgar/Pushkar

Travel to Pushkar, often called Tirth Raj or the king of pilgrim centres. Cruise through Ajmer and over Snake Mountain to Pushkar — the site of the world’s only temple to the Hindu god of creation, Brahma. After settling into your accommodation, get your bearings on an orientation walk around the colourful city with cascading architecture and capture a group photo on the lake.

Day 7

Pushkar

Before dawn, climb to the hilltop Savitri Temple and catch the sun rising over the towering Thar Desert mountains. Afterward, reflect on the serenity at one of the many cafés in town, stretch and meditate during a calming yoga session, or scour the markets. Opt for an unforgettable evening by dressing in traditional Indian clothing and partake in an authentic dinner cooked by cameleers in the desert, all with live entertainment!

Day 8

Pushkar/Udaipur

Continue south to Udaipur, famous worldwide for its plethora of breathtaking lakes and Raj-era palaces. It certainly lives up to its reputation as India's most romantic city (wink, wink). With its own famous style of painting and plenty of artisans, Udaipur is a great place to stroll through. After the orientation walk, opt to take a boat ride on Lake Pichola with your fellow travellers.

Day 9

Udaipur

Free time to explore "Venice of the East" with its plethora lakes, palaces, and narrow lanes. Wander around solo or see who wants to join you on an adventure. Discover the early morning serenity of the city by pre-booking the Udaipur Sunrise Cycle tour, or opt to sharpen your culinary skills by pre-booking the Udaipur Cooking School class.

Day 10

Udaipur

Free time to explore "Venice of the East" with its plethora lakes, palaces, and narrow lanes. Wander around solo or see who wants to join you on an adventure. Discover the early morning serenity of the city by pre-booking the Udaipur Sunrise Cycle tour, or opt to sharpen your culinary skills by pre-booking the Udaipur Cooking School class.

Day 11

Udaipur/Ahmedabad

Take a local bus to Ahmedabad and explore the famous Gandhi Ashram at Sabarmati. Immerse yourself in the peaceful environment of the riverside home that played an important role in India's freedom and learn of the sites unique history.

Day 12

Ahmedabad/Mumbai

Rise and shine early to catch a train to Mumbai. Upon arrival choose to grab lunch with your CEO and explore the city. In the evening, opt for a cup of tea at the famous Taj Hotel and people-watch on Chowpatty Beach or visit Crawford Market, one of South Mumbai's most famous. Sample some local specialties at one of Mumbai’s many top-notch restaurants as you go out on the town with your fellow travellers and sample the city’s famed nightlife firsthand.

Day 13

Mumbai

Mumbai is your oyster today. Tour the impressive Elephanta caves or continue exploring the city at leisure. This evening, regroup with your CEO and fellow travelers for an overnight train to Goa.

Day 14

Goa

Enjoy a free day to wind down in the paradise that is Goa. Relax on the beaches with your favourite drink in hand or mingle in the many beach bars. Scour the markets, and be sure to try some delicious Goan cuisine and fresh seafood. Get ready to dance the night away for your big night out as a group.

Day 15

Goa/Hubballi

Goa is a town with endless options for fun. Continue exploring the beaches, city life and exciting bars that Goa has to offer! Tonight, head to the train station for an overnight train towards Hampi.

Day 16

Hubballi/Hampi

Pull into Hubballi train station early this morning and drive the rest of the way to Hampi. Then jump into a tuk-tuk to the hotel for the next two nights. Dig in to some breakfast and take some time to freshen up before enjoying some free time to explore this historic town. Come together in the evening to catch the sunset Raghunatha Temple.

Day 17

Hampi

Explore the ancient ruins of Hampi. This UNESCO World Heritage site was built in the mid 1300's. Rome through the ruins and royal structures. In the afternoon, hike to the monkey temple atop Anjanadri Hill for sunset.

Day 18

Hampi/Mysore

This morning, opt to rise early for a hike up Mantanga Hill and enjoy a stunning sunrise over the rocky hill. Spend the day at leisure exploring of Hampi what you might have missed the day before. This evening, take a tuk-tuk to the train station for an overnight train to Mysore.

Day 19

Mysore

Pull into Mysore this morning as you wake up on the train. Then drop your bags, freshen up and head out for an adventure in Mysore. Walk through the Devaraja Market, Chamundi Hills and the Monolithic Bull. In your free time, opt to visit the extravagant Mysore Palace. In the evening, you won't want to miss the chance to see a Bollywood movie in your free time.

Day 20

Mysore/Ooty

Take a tuk-tuk to the bus station this morning and join the locals on a public bus south to Ooty. Take an orientation walk with your CEO after arrival and then enjoy some free time in the beautifully green town of Ooty.

Day 21

Ooty

Feel a sense of accomplishment this morning as we rise early for a picturesque sunrise hike up Dodapetta Peak with a view of the lush green surrounding forrest. Enjoy some free time today and opt to ride the famous toy train. In the afternoon, visit the Dodabeta Tea Factory.

Day 22

Kochi

A bus, a train and tuk-tuk ride brings us to beautiful port town of Kochi! Spend the afternoon exploring this super cute city, wandering through the cobblestone streets and vibrant culture. Some new travellers may be joining you this evening. Join your CEO to help welcome everyone this evening.

Day 23

Kochi/Alleppey

Take an orientation walk visiting Fort Kochi, St Francis Church, the Dutch cemetery, and the Jewish Quarter with curio shops and a synagogue more than 400-years-old. Then travel to Alleppey, a golden streak of land woven with rivers, lakes, lagoons, and canals. Enjoy an empowering lunch before checking out the island along the lagoon with a local guide and learn about the way of life here. Settle into a homestay and get to know your hosts.

Day 24

Alleppey/Kollam

Explore the unique ecosystem of Alleppey backwaters on a morning ferry cruise. Afterward, travel down the coast by bus to the port city of Kollam. On arrival, choose to relax on the beach, climb Thangassery Light House, or peruse the nightlife.

Day 25

Kollam/Varkala

Visit the Kollam Harbour and experience the importance of fishing for the community. Afterward, settle into a private vehicle and see who can count the most palm trees as you cruise down the coast to tropical Varkala. Enjoy lots of free time to explore the town, get treated by local healers, or visit the Varkala Temple. Note that Kollam Harbour is closed to visitors May through June.

Day 26

Varkala

Choose your own adventure today, exploring Varkala solo or with your new friends. Spend time wandering the peaceful gardens of an ashram devoted to Kerala's most eminent spiritual and social reformer at the mystical Janardhana Swamy Temple. Or head to the beach and relax while watching the Arabian Sea with a drink in hand.

Day 27

Varkala/Kochi

Return to Kochi by train. In the late afternoon, continue to wander the streets or opt to catch a traditional Kathakali dance performance. For your big night out as a group, immerse yourself in the exciting Kochi nightlife and reminisce about the life-changing adventures you've shared.

Day 28

Kochi

Today is departure day, but do not fear, there is no such thing as goodbye, only until next time. Hug your new friends, exchange contacts, and depart at any time.

Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.

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