Mysteries of India

Day 1: Delhi, India

A paradise of contradiction, Delhi features a bustling energy, age-old monuments, and an all-encompassing vitality that courses its way through the busy streets. Experience everything this dynamic metropolis has to offer, from modern New Delhi to historic Old Delhi. As arrival times will vary, there is no scheduled sightseeing today. Spend the day as you wish, exploring the city independently. Dinner tonight is on your own.

Day 2: Delhi

Start your morning at the expansive Humayun’s Tomb, one of the best-preserved Mughal monuments dating back to the 1500s. This sprawling complex inspired countless mausoleums, including the legendary Taj Mahal. Enjoy some free time in the afternoon to explore on your own. Gather with your group in the evening for a welcome dinner featuring Indian specialties.

Day 3: Delhi

Cut through Old Delhi’s buzzing streets on a rickshaw – your mode of transportation for an exhilarating tour of Old Delhi. See the city’s friendly vendors as you travel down narrow streets and busy corridors. Visit Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, and stand in awe before its iconic red sandstone towers. Your exploration of New Delhi continues on a journey by the city’s famous monuments, including the India Gate and Parliament building.

Day 4: Delhi - Jaipur

Wish the city goodbye and embark on a scenic drive through the countryside. Stop for lunch in a local restaurant before arriving in Jaipur, the “Pink City.” See Hawa Mahal, the former home of a maharaja (Indian prince). Marvel at the city’s architectural brilliance as you stroll through the heart of the old city during your free time.

Day 5: Jaipur

Take in the extensive palace complex of Amber Fort, India’s former seat of power. Head to the palace by means of a vintage jeep, scaling the hills overlooking Jaipur. In the evening, get to know a local family as you join them for a hosted dinner in their home.

Day 6: Jaipur

Experience an Impact Moment as you explore the secrets hidden in the walled city of Jaipur on an eco-friendly e-rickshaw. With Pink City Rickshaw Company, which employs women from low-income households, you’ll get a peek into the soul of the old city as your driver steers the way. Continue your exploration of the beautiful city, starting with the City Palace. Nearby, take in the impeccable masonry of the Jantar Mantar – the world’s oldest stone sundial. The afternoon is yours to discover Jaipur however you please.

Day 7: Jaipur - Ranthambore National Park

Travel to Ranthambore National Park where we will seek out tigers in their natural habitat. Learn about Project Tiger’s conservation efforts and the impact the organization has had on the Ranthambore sanctuary. Connect with a naturalist, introducing you to India’s extensive wildlife.

Day 8: Ranthambore

Board a canter (open-air truck) for your first game drive. Seek out barking deer, Indian gazelles, and exotic birdlife. Follow the tigers’ paths in search of the sanctuary’s renowned wildlife. Then, it’s your choice! Enjoy some leisure time to relax at the hotel and explore your surroundings at your own pace -OR- take a short trip for an Impact Moment at Dastkar Ranthambore, a social enterprise renowned for empowering local women artisans. No matter what you choose, return to the wild for another chance to seek out marsh crocodiles, sloth bears, and the park’s famous Bengal tigers.

Day 9: Ranthambore - Agra

Today, we depart early as we make our way to Agra, a city rich with the splendors of the past. Along the way, visit the impressive Abhaneri step well. Built over 1,000 years ago, it is an architectural marvel hidden from visitors until recently. Then, stop for lunch and get another taste of local flavors. Home to stone forts and marble mausoleums, Agra features a lively culture and picture-perfect architecture.

Day 10: Agra

The Taj Mahal, a stunning vision in white marble and sandstone, was built as an expression of love by Emperor Shah Jahan. Experience the romantic spirit of the Taj Mahal in the early morning, when the colors of the sky dance on the bright façade and shimmer in its reflective pool. Visit Agra Fort, the seat of the Mughal Empire. During an Impact Moment, enjoy lunch at Sheroes' Hangout – a café that empowers female survivors of violence, allowing them to reclaim their lives through employment and sisterhood.

Day 11: Agra - Khajuraho

Start your morning with a train ride to Jhansi where you will connect with your coach and make your way to Khajuraho. In the shadow of the Vindhya mountain range, find a city of stone temples and mystifying sculptures. Make the most of time at leisure this afternoon to explore the area on your own.

Day 12: Khajuraho - Varanasi

Take in the Chandela Temple complex, home to unparalleled temple architecture and intricate stone carvings. Fly to Varanasi – India’s holiest city – where spiritual energy radiates from the ground up. Sail along the Ganges River and pass by the ghats (banks) where locals wade into the river. From the Dasaswamedh Ghat, enjoy a reserved seat to experience the Ganga Aarti ceremony as it illuminates the night sky.

Day 13: Varanasi

Take advantage of a morning boat ride for an opportunity to see the sunrise on the Ganges River. Travel to Sarnath, where Siddhartha Gautama – later known as Buddha – gave his first sermon in the 6th century B.C. Discover this holy site and gain insight into the country’s divine past. Celebrate your adventure through India alongside new friends at a farewell dinner.

Day 14: Varanasi - Delhi - Tour Ends

Enjoy a morning at leisure before flying back to Delhi, where a room has been reserved for you to freshen up before your return flight home.