21-Day India: Northern Explorer
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US$1426 ￥9562 €1268 C$2027 Rs.137355
US$1678 ￥11251 €1492 C$2385 Rs.161628
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Child age: 0-12
Highlights
This is northern India in full colour. Expect Delhi buzz, Rajasthan forts, desert camps under the stars in Jaisalmer and the iconic Golden Triangle route, before sunrise at the Taj Mahal. Find your flow with yoga in Rishikesh, then end with soul-shaking moments on the Ganges in Varanasi. Colourful, chaotic, spiritual and unforgettable, this is India at a pace that lets you truly take it all in.
Dates & Prices
Price in USD (per person, based on double occupancy)
Itinerary
Welcome to Delhi - the buzzing city where centuries-old forts meet full-throttle city life. Meet your crew and Trip Manager tonight, before we head out for dinner at a local restaurant to kick things off properly.
Delhi, India
Delhi encapsulates two very different worlds, the âoldâ and the ânewâ, each presenting deliciously different experiences. Rambunctious Old Delhi, the Muslim Indian capital between the 17th and 19th century, has many mosques, monuments, forts and bazaars with a distinctive mediaeval flavour. New Delhi, the imperial city created by the British, flaunts a surprising number of impressive monuments reflecting the glory of the Mughal, Turk, Persian and ultimately the British rulers.
Morning, travellers. We’ll kick off in Old Delhi with a photo stop at the Red Fort, then hop on rickshaws through the buzzing lanes to Jama Masjid. Next up, we’ll swing by India Gate, cruise past the President’s House and government buildings, then stop at Gandhi’s House to round things off. Hungry? You can opt in to an Old Delhi food tour this evening and taste your way through the chaos.Tonight we’ll board a basic overnight train to Bikaner and travel proper local-style. You’ll be in 6-berth sleeper compartments with bedding included. Your bags kept in-cabin (space is tight, so an overnight bag will be your best mate). Settle in, get some rest, and let the rhythm of the rails do the work while we roll towards Rajasthan.
Delhi, India
Delhi encapsulates two very different worlds, the âoldâ and the ânewâ, each presenting deliciously different experiences. Rambunctious Old Delhi, the Muslim Indian capital between the 17th and 19th century, has many mosques, monuments, forts and bazaars with a distinctive mediaeval flavour. New Delhi, the imperial city created by the British, flaunts a surprising number of impressive monuments reflecting the glory of the Mughal, Turk, Persian and ultimately the British rulers.
Hello Rajasthan! We'll jump off our overnight train and have brekkie at our homestay. We're now fueled and ready to head out and explore Junagarh Fort (one of the region’s most impressive strongholds and seriously stunning inside). The afternoon is yours to roam. Opt in for a heritage bike ride past ornate havelis, and dive into the local street food scene.
Overnight train to Bikaner, India
Experience an overnight train journey to Bikaner, offering a unique rail travel experience and desert landscapes.
Bikaner, India
Bikaner is a historic city in Rajasthan, India, famous for its grand forts, traditional havelis, and camel festival. This desert city preserves rich cultural heritage and offers unique historical experiences.
Bye bye, Bikaner. You’ll have the morning for a breakfast run, then we’ll hit the road towards Jaisalmer with desert scenes incoming.Welcome to the Golden City, where the legendary Jaisalmer Fort glows in sandstone. It’s one of the world’s rare living forts, and you’ll feel that energy as you admire from the outside. Tonight we’ll grab a rooftop spot and watch the sunset turn the whole city even more golden.
Jaisalmer, India
Jaisalmer, known as the Golden City, is famous for its magnificent sandstone fort and desert landscape in Rajasthan, India.
Kick things off this morning with a guided walk through this real-life sandcastle. Then you’ll have time to roam the fort’s winding lanes with the crew before we switch gears and head straight into the Thar Desert. Time to check into our tents near the dunes of Khuri. Come sunset, it’s camel ride o’clock (!) followed by a bonfire night of Rajasthani folk music, dance and a family-style dinner under the stars. Wow.
Jaisalmer, India
Jaisalmer, known as the Golden City, is famous for its magnificent sandstone fort and desert landscape in Rajasthan, India.
Jaisalmer, you were unreal. We’ll grab one last camp breakfast by the dunes, then hit the road towards our next Rajasthani gem. Blue City, we’re coming for ya'Dive straight into Jodhpur with an orientation through its old city lanes and buzzing markets, plus a photo stop in front of the mighty Mehrangarh Fort (camera rolls will be filling fast). After some free time to explore your way, we’ll check into the hotel and take the evening to wander and grab dinner with the crew.
Jaisalmer, India
Jaisalmer, known as the Golden City, is famous for its magnificent sandstone fort and desert landscape in Rajasthan, India.
Jodhpur, India
Jodhpur, known as the 'Blue City', is the second largest city in Rajasthan, India. Famous for its blue-painted houses and majestic Mehrangarh Fort, it offers rich cultural heritage, bustling markets, and traditional handicrafts.
A free day in Jodhpur? Yes please. Maybe hop in a tuk-tuk for photo ops through those iconic blue lanes, chase down a fort viewpoint, or cafe-hop between market finds. From skyline views to street eats, the options are endless in this city.
Jodhpur, India
Jodhpur, known as the 'Blue City', is the second largest city in Rajasthan, India. Famous for its blue-painted houses and majestic Mehrangarh Fort, it offers rich cultural heritage, bustling markets, and traditional handicrafts.
After two nights in Jodhpur, we’ll hit the road for Pushkar, a city that plays by its own rules and proudly so.No meat. No alcohol. Just colourful markets, cool cafes and a whole lot of spirituality. We'll get to know one of India's oldest towns with an orientation around the holy lake and ghats (and even visit the iconic Brahma Temple and an evening Aarti as chants drift across the water). Wanna grab the crew and head to a cute rooftop cafe overlooking the lake?
Jodhpur, India
Jodhpur, known as the 'Blue City', is the second largest city in Rajasthan, India. Famous for its blue-painted houses and majestic Mehrangarh Fort, it offers rich cultural heritage, bustling markets, and traditional handicrafts.
Pushkar, India
Pushkar, a holy city in Rajasthan, is known for its sacred lake, Brahma Temple, and camel fair.
Wakey wakey. We’ll rise before the sun and take on the 970 steps up to Savitri Temple, climbing 750 feet for panoramic views over Pushkar as the city wakes below. (That early alarm will be worth it, promise!). Next up: the oh-so-pretty, Pink City. We’ll get straight into it with a hands-on block printing session at the Anoothi Project, supporting a powerful local initiative. Later (once the new crew has joined) we’ll head out on an evening orientation walk through Jaipur’s buzzing bazaars and sandstone streets. With 3 nights here, there’ll be time to slow the pace, dive deeper, and make the most of a city packed with colour, culture, and plenty to do.
Pushkar, India
Pushkar, a holy city in Rajasthan, is known for its sacred lake, Brahma Temple, and camel fair.
Jaipur, India
Jaipur is a major tourist destination in northern India, and the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Known for its architecture, cuisine, and culture, popular attractions in Jaipur include Amer Fort, Birla Mandir, Hawa Mahal, and Garh Ganesh Temple.
Morning, fort fans. Today, we’ll kick things off at the mighty Amber Fort, then roll on to Hawa Mahal for those must-have photo ops in front of its iconic pink facade. The evening is yours to explore your way, markets, rooftops. But if home-style Indian food is calling your name, you can opt for dinner with a local family and learn how it’s really done.
Jaipur, India
Jaipur is a major tourist destination in northern India, and the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Known for its architecture, cuisine, and culture, popular attractions in Jaipur include Amer Fort, Birla Mandir, Hawa Mahal, and Garh Ganesh Temple.
Yep, it’s a full free day in the pretty Pink City. Looking for things to do? How about a Bollywood film at the iconic Raj Mandir Cinema? Or a wander through Jantar Mantar’s mind-bending observatory? Maybe take a bike tour through the streets, or sip a cocktail with the crew at a heritage palace.
Jaipur, India
Jaipur is a major tourist destination in northern India, and the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Known for its architecture, cuisine, and culture, popular attractions in Jaipur include Amer Fort, Birla Mandir, Hawa Mahal, and Garh Ganesh Temple.
Jaipur, you’ve been a dream. But now we’re swapping pink palaces for raw wilderness as we head to Ranthambore. Oh yes, it's tiger time. Welcome to Ranthambore! This is where tigers, leopards and wild landscapes steal the spotlight. Head out on an optional (but highly recommended) safari into the jungle. P.S. Safaris here are in high demand, so you'll need to pre-book this Free Time Add-On.
Jaipur, India
Jaipur is a major tourist destination in northern India, and the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Known for its architecture, cuisine, and culture, popular attractions in Jaipur include Amer Fort, Birla Mandir, Hawa Mahal, and Garh Ganesh Temple.
Ranthambore National Park, India
Ranthambore National Park is a famous tiger reserve in India, attracting visitors with its rich wildlife and fort scenery.
After our dose of jungle and (hopefully) tiger sightings, we’ll trade wild landscapes for something equally iconic as we hit the road for another world wonder.Hello Agra… heard of it? You’ll have a free evening to explore, or level things up with an optional visit to Agra Fort for sunset views and serious Mughal-era drama.
Agra, India
Agra, situated on the banks of the river Yamuna, is part of the popular Golden Triangle tourist circuit, along with Delhi and Jaipur. It is also home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri.
Today’s the day, folks. We’ll be up early to catch the marble beauty that is Taj Mahal at sunrise. Take it in, snap the pics, have your “okay, wow” moment, then we’ll hit the road back to Delhi. Hi again, Delhi. Tonight is yours to explore, whether that’s another market mission, a proper local dinner, or rounding up the crew for a stroll and a few laughs.
Agra, India
Agra, situated on the banks of the river Yamuna, is part of the popular Golden Triangle tourist circuit, along with Delhi and Jaipur. It is also home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri.
Delhi, India
Delhi encapsulates two very different worlds, the âoldâ and the ânewâ, each presenting deliciously different experiences. Rambunctious Old Delhi, the Muslim Indian capital between the 17th and 19th century, has many mosques, monuments, forts and bazaars with a distinctive mediaeval flavour. New Delhi, the imperial city created by the British, flaunts a surprising number of impressive monuments reflecting the glory of the Mughal, Turk, Persian and ultimately the British rulers.
Bye Delhi. We’ll hop on the local train and roll out towards Haridwar's calmer scenes. We’re stepping into India’s spiritual side here. From Haridwar, we’ll swap the train for local transport and make our way to Rishikesh. Welcome to Rishikesh: calm, cool and sitting pretty on the Ganges. We’ll check into a simple, comfy yoga retreat accommodation, explore the laid-back lanes of Tapovan, then gather by the river for evening Aarti as the ceremony lights up the water.
Haridwar, India
Haridwar, meaning "Gateway to Lord Shiva (Hari)", is one of the seven holiest places (Sapta Puri) in Hinduism. Located in Uttarakhand, where the Ganga River enters the plains from the Himalayas, it is a major pilgrimage site and a center of spirituality, culture, and tradition.
Rishikesh, India
Rishikesh, India's serene yoga capital by the Ganges, offers spiritual retreats, thrilling rafting, iconic bridges, and peaceful Himalayan vibes in Uttarakhand's sacred foothills.
We ain’t leaving the home of yoga without rolling out a mat. This morning, we’ll start with a yoga class at the retreat, fuel up on a sattvic vegetarian breakfast, then head out on a guided walk past markets and ashrams, finishing at the legendary Beatles Ashram (yep, THE Beatles).
Rishikesh, India
Rishikesh, India's serene yoga capital by the Ganges, offers spiritual retreats, thrilling rafting, iconic bridges, and peaceful Himalayan vibes in Uttarakhand's sacred foothills.
Today, we’ll say goodbye to Rishikesh and start the journey back, hopping into local transport for the drive to Haridwar. (It's a long travel day ahead, have your playlists ready!). Train time again. We’ll board and roll on towards Lucknow, watching the landscapes shift as we head deeper into Uttar Pradesh. Welcome to Lucknow, known for its rich Nawabi heritage and legendary food scene, and our base for the next two nights. Settle in tonight. Tomorrow we'll dive in properly into everything this city has to offer.
Rishikesh, India
Rishikesh, India's serene yoga capital by the Ganges, offers spiritual retreats, thrilling rafting, iconic bridges, and peaceful Himalayan vibes in Uttarakhand's sacred foothills.
Lucknow, India
Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is renowned for its Mughal architecture, exquisite cuisine, and refined Nawabi culture.
Tuk-tuk time! We’ll zip through the city’s landmarks on a guided ride, soaking in views of Lucknow’s grand architecture and everyday buzz from the best seat in the house. The rest of the day is yours. And if you’re hungry, you can opt into a street food tour to taste the flavours this city is so famous for.
Lucknow, India
Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is renowned for its Mughal architecture, exquisite cuisine, and refined Nawabi culture.
Later, Lucknow. We’ll board another train and travel local-style towards one of India’s holiest cities. Welcome to Varanasi — spiritual, intense, and guaranteed to leave an impression. Sacred to Hindus and home to the city’s burning ghats, this is a powerful, unfiltered side of the Ganges (that couldn’t feel more different to laid-back Rishikesh). We’ll take to the streets by e-rickshaw, then end at the river for the Ghat Aarti ceremony as flames light up the waterfront.
Varanasi, India
Varanasi is a sacred Hindu city on the Ganges River, renowned for its ancient temples, holy ghats, and spiritual rituals. It's one of India's oldest continuously inhabited cities and a major pilgrimage site.
You’ve got a full day to dive into this city’s energy. Opt for a sunrise boat ride along the Ganges as the river shifts through golden hour, or head to Sarnath - the place where Buddha first shared his teachings.
Varanasi, India
Varanasi is a sacred Hindu city on the Ganges River, renowned for its ancient temples, holy ghats, and spiritual rituals. It's one of India's oldest continuously inhabited cities and a major pilgrimage site.
And just like that, our India adventure has officially wrapped up. From desert dunes to holy rivers, we’ve covered some ground. Hug it out, swap details, and say your goodbyes (or maybe just “see you on the next one.”)
Includes & Excludes
Price Includes
Additional Notes
- START/END TIMES: Trip starts in Delhi at 3:00pm and ends in Varanasi at 9:00am.
- TRANSFERS: Chargeable transfers can be booked on a single or twin basis. Twin transfers can only be booked when two travellers are travelling together on the same reference number, no twin share transfers are available. If travellers book pre-trip accommodation elsewhere (Non Contiki property), they can still book a transfer. However, transfers operate only between the airport and the Contiki start hotel, so guests will need to make their own way from Contiki start hotel to their independently pre-booked hotel. The same applies to post-trip accommodation. Flight information is required in order to book transfers.
- PROOF OF AIRLINE TICKET: Travellers are advised to print out their full flight itinerary including their e-ticket number to enter any airport in India. Due to heightened security at the airport, they must always also have their passport and visa handy.
- INDIA: USA passport holders require a visa for India. Visa must be obtained prior to departure. Depending on visa type, applications can be submitted from 120 days prior to departure up to 4 days prior to departure. Please see important visa details sent with your invoice.
- MANDATORY E-ARRIVAL CARD: From 1 April 2026, all foreign nationals and OCI cardholders must complete an e-Arrival Card within 72 hours of arrival in India. A QR code will be generated upon submission and must be presented at immigration. Families (up to 5) can submit one form via the Su-Swagatam App, indianvisaonline.gov.in, or boi.gov.in.
- IMPORTANT: Travel Insurance is compulsory on all Contiki Asia trips. Full passport details must be provided 60 days before departure.
- RANTHAMBORE SAFARI: Please ensure you pre-book your Ranthambore Safari via either your Travel Agent or Contiki directly.
- NOTE: A small overnight bag will be required for some nights of this trip.
- OVERNIGHT TRAIN: Overnight train from Delhi to Bikaner in 3rd-class sleeper: 6 berths per compartment, 2 along the aisle. Mixed-gender, may include non-Contiki travellers, and same-area seating is not guaranteed.
- MOBILE PHONE RESTRICTION: Mobile phones are not permitted in Ranthambhore National Park effective February 1, 2026. Only safari drivers and guides may carry phones for emergency use.
- NATIONAL PARK RESTRICTION: Guests may continue to bring camera-only devices into the National Park, in line with current regulations. We recommend bringing a camera-only device.
- GROUND HANDLER: Contiki sometimes uses ground handlers or third parties to assist with the full or partial operation of our products. The ground handler for this trip is Distinct Destinations. Contiki Trip Manager will be onboard.
Policies
All purchases are subject to re-confirmation within 2-3 business days after booking. Please do not book airline tickets until you have received the confirmation.
Complete operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, is included on your e-ticket. You must print the e-tickets and take them along on your trip; they are your proof of purchase.
Travel Documents
Each passenger must carry a valid travel document. (Valid visa for countries needed) (E.g. Green Card, Passport, Re-Entry Permit, and etc.) Tour operator is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Each passenger must carry a valid travel document. (Valid visa for countries needed) (E.g. Green Card, Passport, Re-Entry Permit, and etc.) Tour operator is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Cancellation penalties per person (request day and departure day are not counted)
30 days or more prior to departure - $175/person penalty.
2-29 days or more prior to departure - $280/person penalty.
Day of departure no show or late - 100% per person.
If the tour include airtickets, additional $75+airline surcharge will be charged as penalty.
Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
Trips require a minimum number of participants to avoid cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip to fully refund affected customers although tour companies will make every effort to maintain normal operations.
The refund amount will be credited directly to your TakeTours wallet as credits for future use. Or the refund can also be forwarded directly to your credit card with a 6% handling fee.
NOTE: We cannot grant any refunds more than 30 days after completion of the tour.
30 days or more prior to departure - $175/person penalty.
2-29 days or more prior to departure - $280/person penalty.
Day of departure no show or late - 100% per person.
If the tour include airtickets, additional $75+airline surcharge will be charged as penalty.
Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
Trips require a minimum number of participants to avoid cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip to fully refund affected customers although tour companies will make every effort to maintain normal operations.
The refund amount will be credited directly to your TakeTours wallet as credits for future use. Or the refund can also be forwarded directly to your credit card with a 6% handling fee.
NOTE: We cannot grant any refunds more than 30 days after completion of the tour.
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