Uncover India: High Deserts & Markets
Uncover India: High Deserts & Markets
$1279
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through India with the "Uncover India: High Deserts & Markets" tour. This adventure takes you from the bustling streets of Delhi to the serene beaches of Goa, offering a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Marvel at the iconic Taj Mahal, explore the vibrant markets of Jaipur, and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of Pushkar. Experience rural life in Tordi Sagar and enjoy the romantic charm of Udaipur's lakes. Discover Mumbai's dynamic energy and unwind on Goa's sun-kissed shores. With a mix of guided tours and free time, this small group tour is perfect for those seeking cultural immersion and adventure. Travel by train, bus, and plane, and stay in simple accommodations, ensuring an authentic and memorable Indian experience. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Delhi
Location: Delhi, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk
Accommodation: Hotel Metropolitan
Accommodation Name: Hotel Metropolitan
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!
Additional Information: Please note this tour departs Delhi early on Day 2, so book pre-accommodation if you would like to explore the city more in depth. Opt to wander through the heart of India's capital city and explore Old and New Delhi. Travel by the new metro or auto rickshaws and visit the famous Jama Masjid (Great Mosque) where you can climb the minaret for a bird's eye view of the old city. Explore Chandni Chowk, one of India's oldest and busiest markets or head to the colourful spice market -- a great photo opportunity.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
ACTIVITY: Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.
Day 2: Delhi/Āgra
Location: Delhi, Agra, Taj Mahal, Agra Fort
Accommodation: Crystal Inn Agra
Accommodation Name: Crystal Inn Agra
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.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
ACTIVITY: We will aim to experience the Taj Mahal at either sunset or sunrise, depending upon our train tickets and travel schedule.
Day 3: Āgra/Jaipur
Location: Agra, Jaipur, Hawa Mahal
Accommodation: Rawla Mrignayani Palace
Accommodation Name: Rawla Mrignayani Palace
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.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
TRANSPORT: There will be a stop around the half-way point for snacks and toilets.
Day 4: Jaipur
Location: Amber Fort, Jaipur, Palace of the Winds, Jaipur Observatory
Accommodation: Rawla Mrignayani Palace
Accommodation Name: Rawla Mrignayani Palace
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.
ACTIVITY: Explore this magnificent fort overlooking an artificial lake, famous for its unique mixture of Hindu and Muslim architecture. 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.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Enjoy free time to relax, shop, visit landmarks like the Palace of the Winds or the Jaipur Observatory, or soak up some pop culture at a Bollywood movie.
Day 5: Jaipur/Tordi Sāgar
Location: Jaipur, Tordi Sāgar
Accommodation: Hotel Tordi Garh
Accommodation Name: Hotel Tordi Garh
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
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.
ACTIVITY: Take a tour of this tiny, tranquil village far from the maddening crowds and enjoy its pastoral settings and local hospitality. Also look at its magnificent red sand dunes.
TRANSPORT: Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.
Day 6: Tordi Sāgar/Pushkar
Location: Tordi Sāgar, Ajmer, Pushkar, Brahma Temple
Accommodation: Hotel New Park
Accommodation Name: Hotel New Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
TRANSPORT: Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.
ACTIVITY: Join your CEO for an orientation to explore key parts of this desert city, including beautiful lakes and ghats. Visit the famed Brahma temple, meet a local pandit and understand/take part in the ancient rituals
Day 7: Pushkar
Location: Pushkar, Savitri Temple
Accommodation: Hotel New Park
Accommodation Name: Hotel New Park
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!
ACTIVITY: Climb a hilltop to get to this temple honouring Savitri, the wife of the Hindu god, Brahma. Witness a gorgeous sunrise over this holy place while drinking a warm cup of chai.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Enjoy free time to explore town after returning from the sunrise temple climb. Opt to take a yoga class, scour the markets, or relax with a massage.
Day 8: Pushkar/Udaipur
Location: Pushkar, Udaipur, Lake Pichola
Accommodation: Hotel Royal Dezire Udaipur
Accommodation Name: Hotel Royal Dezire 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.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
ACTIVITY: Go on a guided orientation walk and get to know local markets and key places.
Day 9: Udaipur
Location: Udaipur
Accommodation: Hotel Royal Dezire Udaipur
Accommodation Name: Hotel Royal Dezire 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.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Do as much or as little as you want today. Visit one of the local palaces or enjoy a cooking demonstration.
Day 10: Udaipur
Location: Udaipur
Accommodation: Hotel Royal Dezire Udaipur
Accommodation Name: Hotel Royal Dezire 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.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Do as much or as little as you want today. Visit one of the local palaces or enjoy a cooking demonstration.
Day 11: Udaipur/Mumbai
Location: Udaipur, Ahmedabad, Gandhi Ashram at Sabarmati, Mumbai
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. From here, get some rest on an overnight train as you cruise to Mumbai.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
ACTIVITY: Explore the famous Gandhi Ashram at Sabarmati, once home to Mahatma Gandhi for nearly 12 years.
TRANSPORT: Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.
Day 12: Mumbai
Location: Mumbai, Gateway of India, Mumbai, Elephanta Island, Taj Hotel, Mumbai, Chowpatty Beach, Mumbai, Crawford Market, Mumbai
Accommodation: Hotel Fortune
Accommodation Name: Hotel Fortune
Arrive in Mumbai and stretch your legs on an orientation walk of Colaba and the Fort district. Enjoy a free day to uniquely explore the bustling metropolis; be sure to capture a group photo under the Gateway to India. Opt to take a boat to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Elephanta Island, famous for intricate cave temples carved in rock walls.
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.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Opt to go on a taxi tour around town, visit Elephanta Island.
Day 13: Mumbai/Goa
Location: Mumbai, Goa, Old Goa, Panjim
Accommodation: Alor Holiday Resort
Accommodation Name: Alor Holiday Resort
Hop on a short morning flight to North Goa. Head to the white sand beaches, visit the many Portuguese-built monuments, wander around the churches of Old Goa (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and discover Panjim, the capital. In the evening, opt to sample tasty treats at the night market and take in the nightlife of this coastal state.
TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY After transferring to the hotel, the day is free to explore the beaches and charming town.
Day 14: Goa
Location: Goa
Accommodation: Alor Holiday Resort
Accommodation Name: Alor Holiday Resort
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. Enjoy a drink on us and cut a rug.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Recover from the previous night's festivities or further explore the beaches and markets of charming Goa.
ACTIVITY: Goa is overflowing with prime nightclubs and bars. Your CEO will take you to the best one to enjoy a drink on us and dance the night away.
Day 15: Goa
Location: Goa
Today is departure day, but do not fret! There is no such thing as goodbye, only until next time.ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Simple hotels or guesthouse (twin-share) (13 nts), overnight train (1 nt). -
Welcome Moment
Meet your CEO and group for a welcome moment.
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First Night Out Moment
Connect with new friends on your first night out.
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Discover Moment
Experience a discover moment in Udaipur.
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Big Night Out Moment
Dance the night away in Goa.
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Guided Tour
Enjoy a guided tour of the Taj Mahal and the Amber Fort.
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Orientation Walks
Participate in orientation walks in Jaipur, Pushkar, Udaipur, and Mumbai.
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Visit to Gandhi Ashram
Visit the Gandhi Ashram.
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Village Walk
Take a village walk in rural Tordi Sagar.
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Sunrise at Savitri Temple
Experience sunrise at Savitri temple.
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Internal Flight
Includes an internal flight.
What's Not Included
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Meals Not Included
Allow USD340-445 for meals not included.
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Tipping and Gratuities
Tipping and gratuities are not included.
Accommodation
Stay in simple hotels or guesthouses with twin-share rooms for 13 nights, and experience an overnight train journey for 1 night.
Transport
Train, local bus, jeep, rickshaw, tuk-tuk, taxi, plane.
Meals Included
1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
Group Size
Max 18, avg 14.
Solo Travellers
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price. ...more ...less
Meals
Eating is a big part of travelling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. Vegetarians will be able to find a huge range of different foods - India is vegetarian heaven. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel across India using a variety of transport modes including trains, local buses, jeeps, rickshaws, tuk-tuks, taxis, and planes.
Minimum Age
Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
Local Dress
In Asia the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of Asian summers. In predominately Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim countries we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tanktops when visiting small rural communities or visiting temples or mosques or other holy sites as this may restrict your entry. In Pakistan we recommend a head scarf for women while walking around. In northern India between middle of December to end of February, night time temperatures can be low, so bring a set of warmer clothes. Thermal underclothes, being small and light, can be very useful. ...more ...less
Important Notes
1. India is a country which is very different to anything you will have experienced before. Although this means it is not the easiest place to travel, this is also what makes it so special. Pollution, poverty and the crowds can result in initial culture shock but should be seen as an exciting new challenge. During our time here we have come to love this large and wonderfully different country but we know that we should always expect to encounter some difficulties along the way.
2. In India there are very different attitudes to time keeping, public cleanliness, privacy and service. Trains will sometimes be late, plumbing can sometimes be temperamental and power will often just vanish. Optimistic menus turn out to have only one dish available and everyone, just everyone, will want to know your name. If you are able to travel with a lot of patience and a healthy sense of humour, then we know that you - like all of us - will be captivated by what India has to offer.
3. Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes.
4. Please Note: Only 1 piece of luggage that weighs up to 15kgs will be permitted on our internal flights in India. For any extra weight the airline may charge an additional fee at the time of check-in.
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Group Leader
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds. ...more ...less
About Accommodation
A variety of styles of hotels/guest houses are used in India. These can vary in terms of service, efficiency and cleanliness. In many instances they might not be like what you are used to back home. Power cuts can and are a regular occurrence in many places, especially throughout North and Central India. Although a number of hotels have generators there may be times when these won’t work. It is also recommended when you are in your room to lock the door, as staff will sometime enter without reason.
Accommodation will be varied throughout your adventure. Some nights on this tour will be multi-share. This may involve 4-6 group members sharing a room. The majority of accommodation will have shared bathroom facilities.
Where we use multi-share hostels, rooming requests of any kind cannot be taken. For private accommodation please see tours in our Classic Travel Style.
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What to Take
What you need to bring depends on the trip you have chosen and the countries or regions you are planning to visit. We suggest that you pack as lightly as possible as your are expected to carry your own luggage. As a rule we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 mintues with your bags which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 10-15kg/22-30lb. Suitcases are not recommended for G Adventures trips! Most travellers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size (no XXL ones please!) as they need to fit under the beds when travelling on sleeper trains. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other electronics like ipods and mobile phones. If your trip involves overnights in homestays, villages or camping then you usually have the opportunity to rent sleeping bags if need be instead of bringing them with you.
Standard luggage allowance for internal flights is 15kg (33lb) for checked luggage, and is 7kg (15lb) for carry-on luggage. Any charges for additional luggage or weight is the responsibility of the passenger.
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Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses a variety of transportation methods including train, local bus, jeep, rickshaw, tuk-tuk, taxi, and plane.
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What type of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
You will stay in simple hotels or guesthouses with twin-share rooms for 13 nights and spend 1 night on an overnight train.
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Are there any meals included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner.
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What is the maximum group size for this tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 18 people, with an average of 14.
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Is there a minimum age requirement for this tour?
Yes, the minimum age requirement for this tour is 18 years.
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What should I consider when packing for this tour?
You should pack loose, lightweight, long clothing suitable for the hot and humid climate. In rural communities and religious sites, dress conservatively. Also, bring warmer clothes for cooler nights in northern India between December and February.
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What is the role of the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) on this tour?
The CEO accompanies the group to take the hassle out of travel, provide information, offer suggestions, and introduce you to local friends. They are not traditional guides but have broad knowledge of the countries visited.
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What is the luggage allowance for internal flights on this tour?
The luggage allowance for internal flights is 15kg for checked luggage and 7kg for carry-on luggage. Any additional charges for extra luggage are the responsibility of the passenger.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Uncover India: High Deserts & Markets
15 Days Starting in Delhi, India and ending in Goa, India
Visiting: Delhi, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Agra, Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Jaipur, Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, Palace of the Winds, Jaipur Observatory, Tordi Sāgar, Ajmer, Pushkar, Brahma Temple, Savitri Temple, Udaipur, Lake Pichola, Ahmedabad, Gandhi Ashram at Sabarmati, Mumbai, Gateway of India, Mumbai, Elephanta Island, Taj Hotel, Mumbai, Chowpatty Beach, Mumbai, Crawford Market, Mumbai, Goa, Old Goa, Panjim ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
23714
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 18
Age range:
18-39
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
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