Compare North to South India: The Taj Mahal & Goa Good Times by G Adventures vs Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Udaipur & Southern India by Globus

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!

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.

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. Or choose to visit Kitchen With A Cause and have a delicious meal that allows you to give back to the community.

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. 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

Have a final taste of rural village life over a traditional lunch before travelling 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/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.

Day 12 Mumbai

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.

Day 13 Mumbai/Goa

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.

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. Enjoy a drink on us and cut a rug.

Day 15 Goa/Kochi

Fly to Kochi and explore this major port city of southern India by wandering through the unique neighbourhoods and exciting markets. Opt to visit Fort Kochi, learn how to toss a fishing net, or catch a traditional dance performance, known as Kathakali, telling of mythological tales.

Don't fret if you can't fit all the excitement into one afternoon, you'll get a second chance to experience Kochi when you return in a few days.

Today, new travellers may join you for the rest of your adventure (woo! new friends). You are welcome to join them at a group meeting this evening followed by an optional dinner.

Day 16 Kochi/Alleppey

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 17 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 18 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 19 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 20 Varkala/Kochi

Return to Kochi by train and 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. 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. Enjoy a drink on us and reminisce about the life-changing adventures you've shared.

Day 21 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.

Day 1: ARRIVE IN DELHI, INDIA

Hello, Delhi! Welcome to Delhi, India’s capital city. Hotel check-in available mid-afternoon.

Day 2: DELHI

Delhi Delights Today’s sightseeing starts with an orientation to see the Red Fort, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace. Then, visit Jama Masjid and take a [LF] rickshaw ride through a local bazaar. After lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy a bit of free time. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a lavish welcome dinner that includes a cooking demonstration and talk on Indian cuisine with a local chef. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

LOCAL FAVORITE
MARKET HIGH Hop on a rickshaw and explore Chandni Chowk, a captivating local bazaar. Ancient alleyways are lined with quaint shops selling a variety of goods and souvenirs—from silver and saris to spices and electronics.

Day 3: DELHI–AGRA

Remembrance & Worship This morning, visit Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest brick minaret, dating back to the 11th century. Next, visit Humayun’s Tomb and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. After lunch, drive to Agra and settle in for the evening. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
A RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE As Delhi’s largest and most prominent Sikh gurudwara (house of worship), Gurudwara Bangla Sahib has religious significance and splendid architecture. The grand edifice is built in the Sikh architectural style, while this magnificent house of worship is made using stunning white marble below its commanding golden dome.

Day 4: AGRA

Moghul Monuments Start your day with a sunrise visit to the captivating Taj Mahal. After a bit of down time, travel to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Moghul Emperor Akbar. This impressive fortress of red sandstone conceals the imperial city of the Moghul rulers and its many palaces. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LOVE REMEMBERED Explore the extravagant Taj Mahal, a marble monument to love. Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan built it as a memorial to his beloved wife, who died during childbirth.

Day 5: AGRA–FATEHPUR SIKRI–RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK AREA

By Road & Rail Today, stop at Fatehpur Sikri (the City of Victory), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century it was the capital of the Mughal Empire for merely 10 years before it was completely abandoned due to the lack of adequate water. After lunch in Bharatpur, board a train bound for Sawai Madhopur, gateway to Ranthambore National Park, one of the best places in India to spot the elusive Bengal tiger! (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

Day 6: RANTHAMBORE AREA

The Game is Afoot Today, explore Ranthambore National Park on morning and afternoon game drives in an open-air safari vehicle. Between game drives, enjoy free time to relax. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE In addition to Bengal tigers, Ranthambore National Park is home to leopard, sambar deer, sloth bears, marsh crocodiles, striped hyenas, and more. Take the opportunity to spot them all on guided game drives today.

Day 7: RANTHAMBORE AREA–JAIPUR

Jaunt to Jaipur Today, travel to Jaipur. In 1876, the city was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales and known as the “Pink City” ever since. After lunch, visit UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jantar Mantar, consisting of 19 astronomical instruments used for measuring time and dates back to 1728. Next, visit the City Palace Museum, once the royal residence and now showcases a collection of paintings, carpets, weapons, and costumes from the past. (Breakfast,Lunch)

Day 8: JAIPUR

Jewels of Jaipur Today, visit the amazing Amber Fort in the morning. Lastly, visit a [LF] local vocational training program for children. Tonight, enjoy a home-hosted dinner with an Indian noble family, followed by a sari-and turban-tying demonstration. (Breakfast,Dinner)

LOCAL FAVORITE
CHILDREN ARE OUR FUTURE Ladli is a training program teaching orphaned children valuable skills to keep them off the streets. Here, learn about the project while interacting with the children and helping them practice their English skills.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
FORMIDABLE FORTRESS Visit the legendary Amber Fort, known as the “Sleeping Beauty of Rajasthan,” built entirely of white marble and red sandstone. This fortress-palace has a somber exterior that hides a richly ornate interior of royal apartments, including an alabaster Hall of Victory and a superb Chamber of Mirrors.

Day 9: JAIPUR–UDAIPUR

Radiant Rajasthan Today, fly to Udaipur, known as the “City of Lakes,” to continue your exploration of Rajasthan, India’s largest state. (Breakfast)

Day 10: UDAIPUR

Only You, Udaipur Your morning sightseeing tour with a Local Guide in this romantic City of Lakes starts with a visit to the City Palace, the largest palace in Rajasthan. Then, visit the Jagdish Temple and the Crystal Gallery. After some free time in the middle of the day, embark on a sunset cruise on Lake Pichola. (Breakfast,Lunch)

Day 11: UDAIPUR–MUMBAI

City Slicker Today, fly to Mumbai, a multicultural metropolis with a vibrant history—now India’s premier seaport and home to the “Bollywood” movie industry. (Breakfast)

Day 12: MUMBAI

Magical Mumbai Join your Local Guide for an orientation of some of the city’s famous sites, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Gateway of India. Then, witness Mumbai’s fascinating tiffin lunch box delivery system. Lastly, stop to see a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat) and visit Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. After lunch, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. (Breakfast,Lunch)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LUNCH BOX HEROES At Churchgate Station, the dabbawalas (box carriers) transfer the lunch boxes onto a wooden cart on a local train as they have done since the late 1800s. This color-coded lunch delivery system began over 100 years ago as migrants moved to work in what was then Bombay. Board the train for the short ride to Mahalaxmi Station where you’ll disembark and watch the boxes being sorted by color for final delivery.

Day 13: MUMBAI–KOCHI

Headed South Today, fly to Kochi, the “Gateway to Kerala,” India’s southernmost state known for its natural beauty. (Breakfast)

Day 14: KOCHI

Diversity & Heritage Your Local Guide takes you to visit the Chinese fishing nets that are the livelihood of many fishermen in the area. You’ll also take a walk through the Jewish Quarter. Then, visit the Kerala Folklore Museum, which aims to educate people about the unique culture and heritage of South India. (Breakfast)

Day 15: KOCHI–KUMARAKOM

Just out for a Cruise Today, drive out of the city to embark on an unforgettable private afternoon cruise on the backwaters of Kerala. Afterward, continue to your lakeside resort. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
GOD’S OWN COUNTRY Explore the serene waters of Kerala – India's tropical paradise of waving palms and wide sandy beaches on the narrow coastal region below the mountains of the Western Ghats. Cruise through a world of lush green vegetation and paddy fields in a paradise that reaches to the Arabian sea. See why Kerala is named one of the “10 paradises of the world” and one of National Geographic Traveler’s “50 Places of a Lifetime.”

Day 16: KUMARAKOM

Free day, Yes! A full day at leisure to explore the area or enjoy resort amenities. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

FREE TIME TIPS
EXPLORE A LITTLE, RELAX A LOT Consider a trip to visit a local village, relax by the pool, or pamper yourself with a spa treatment. More optional excursions throughout your tour are available at MyGlobus.

Day 17: KUMARAKOM

Homeward Bound Your India exploration ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)