Jewels of the North

11 days - from $790

Northern India is home to many of the iconic 'jewels' that one associates with this fascinating country. From the hustle and bustle of the capital, New Delhi, we travel to Varanasi, the holy city on the Ganges River. Visiting Agra enables us to experience the incomparable Taj Mahal before we head to the charming village of Tordi Garh and then the beautiful 'pink city' of Jaipur, where we explore the magnificent Amber Fort and the Palace of the Winds, before we return to Delhi. Along the way we immerse ourselves in a spectacular kaleidoscope that is uniquely India!

Highlights

• Delhi
• Jaipur’s Amber Fort
• Train travel - a quintessentially Indian experience
• UNESCO World Heritage-listed Taj Mahal

Itinerary:

Day 1: Delhi2: Delhi - overnight train3-5: Varanasi - overnight train6: Agra7: Tordi Garh8-9: Jaipur10: Delhi11: Delhi

What's It Like?

Gecko's adventures offer authentic experiences and a genuine alternative to backpacking. Our trips are designed for younger travelers on a budget but do include the entrance fees to the ‘must see’ sights while not wasting your money on unnecessary frills. Itineraries utilize public transport and basic twin share accommodations in small locally owned hotels, the occasional multi-share, or simply floor space in a jungle or village hut. Many trips involve some physical activity, the occasional long traveling day and you will need to carry your own bags. On camping trips, meals are freshly prepared by our camp cook, but expect to put up and take down your tent, and assist with camp chores. On all trips we only use local tour leaders who are passionate about their homeland. This is travel, grassroots style - basic but rewarding.

Included:

Experienced regional tour guide and all transportation and accommodation as indicated in detailed Trip Notes. The following sightseeing trips are included: Delhi - an orientation walk around Chandi Chowk and Janpath including transport; Agra - one visit to the Taj Mahal including transport, entrance and local site guide fees; Tordi Garh - village walk and jeep safari; Jaipur - one visit to the Amber Fort including transport, entrance and local site guide fees.

International flights, arrival and departure transfers, airport/departure taxes, local payments, visas, pre or post tour accommodation, meals, optional tours sightseeing or activities during free time, transfers outside of the tour program, travel insurance, tips and items of a personal nature, laundry and flights unless specified. Some places that we visit charge additional fees if you are entering with a camera or camcorder - your city guide will advise on these and they can be paid for locally.