Overview

Now’s the time to explore India on your terms with this tour that’s affordable for young travellers. Embrace the the hectic pace of Delhi before balancing it out with the beaches of Goa in the first leg of this epic subcontinental journey. Then, finish it off in the southern half of Sri Lanka, a culture-loving backpacker’s dream. Here you’ll discover beautiful ruins, hike through tea plantations, and chill out on Hikkaduwa Beach. And the best part? You’ll do it all with travellers of a similar age and state of mind.

Introduction

Tour the famous Taj Mahal
Explore the Pink City and Amber Fort
Get a taste of village life with a traditional lunch
Climb to the spiritual temple of Savitiri
Explore bustling Mumbai
Check out the catch of the day at Kollam’s fishing docks
Learn about local plants uses at a Spice Garden
Visit a tea plantation

Duration: 32 days
Start/Finish City: Delhi to Hikkaduwa
Service Level: Basic: Simple and clean hotels and hostels; affordable public and private transport; lots of optional activities.
Physical Grading: 3 – Average: Some tours may include light hiking, biking, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking.
Travel Style: 18-to-Thirtysomethings: Fast, fresh, and fun adventures that never slow down, made for young, budget-minded travellers.
Trip Type: Small Group: Small group experience; Max 20, avg 15

Travel Style: 18-to-Thirtysomethings

Fast, fresh, and fun adventures that never slow down, made for young, budget-minded travellers.

Service Level: Basic

Simple and clean hotels and hostels; affordable public and private transport; lots of optional activities.

Physical Rating: 3 – Average

Some tours may include light hiking, biking, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; Max 20, avg 15

Age requirement: 18-39

Trip Highlights

Tour the famous Taj Mahal
explore the Pink City and Amber Fort
get a taste of village life with a traditional lunch
climb to the spiritual temple of Savitiri
explore bustling Mumbai
check out the catch of the day at Kollam’s fishing docks
learn about local plants uses at a Spice Garden, visit a tea plantation

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!

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. TrainDelhi – Āgra2h-3h Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride. Each ticket corresponds to an assigned seat. If the group travels on the early morning train, a basic, local breakfast will be served. Taj Mahal Guided TourTāj Mahal1h-3h 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

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. Orientation Walk – AgraĀgra 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. Local BusĀgra – Jaipur7h There will be a stop around the half-way point for snacks and toilets.

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. Amber Fort Guided TourAmber Fort 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 TimeJaipurAfternoon 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

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. Tordi Sagar Local Village TourTordi Sāgar1h 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. 4x4Jaipur – Tordi Sāgar3h-4h Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.

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. 4x4Tordi Sāgar – Pushkar4h Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads. Pushkar Orientation WalkPushkar1h3km Explore key parts of this desert city, including beautiful lakes and ghats in this CEO-led walk.

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! Savitri Temple Sunrise HikePushkar1h-2h 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 TimePushkarAfternoon 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

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. TrainPushkar – Udaipur7h-8h Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride. Be prepared for a hot ride today. Bring some snacks and beverages. Udaipur Orientation WalkUdaipur Go on a guided orientation walk and get to know local markets and key places.

Day 9 :

Days 9–10 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 10 :

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. Local BusUdaipur – Ahmedabad5h-6h Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride. Gandhi Ashram VisitAhmedabad Explore the famous Gandhi Ashram at Sabarmati, once home to Mahatma Gandhi for nearly 12 years. Basic Overnight Train (beds)Ahmedabad – Mumbai7h-8h 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

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 TimeMumbaiFull Day Opt to go on a taxi tour around town, visit Elephanta Island.

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. PlaneMumbai – Goa Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually. Free TimeGoaFull Day After transferring to the hotel, the day is free to explore the beaches and charming town.

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. Free TimeGoaFull Day Recover from the previous night's festivities or further explore the beaches and markets of charming Goa. Your Big Night Out Moment: Dance the Night Away 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/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.

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. Private VehicleKochi – Alleppey1h30m Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. Alleppey Guided WalkAlleppey1h-2h Explore the area, known as the "Venice of the East," on foot with a local English-speaking guide and learn about the way of life here. Your Local Living Moment: Alleppey Homestay Enjoy a stay with a local family in Alleppey and get a real taste of the culture and what life on the islands is like. Learn how to cook some delicious Kerala dishes and dig in and enjoy the meal after your lesson. Your G for Good Moment: Lunch at Theruvarom Women Empowerment Project Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch prepared by women of the Planeterra Theruvarom Empowerment Project, which provides women from rural areas an alternative source of income by honing their hospitality and culinary skills. Learn about the local cuisine and socio-economic fabric of the region as you get to know the women. All while taking in live entertainment!

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. Alleppey Ferry CruiseAlleppey2h-3h Enjoy a morning ferry ride through the backwaters, observing the unique ecosystem with blue-green stretches of water and coconut trees. Local BusAlleppey – Kollam3h Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride. Orientation With CEO30m-1h 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.

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. Kollam Fishing Docks VisitKollam1h See where all of the action happens in this busy port city and walk around Kollam's bustling fishing docks. Neendakara Fishing Harbour VisitKollam Visit the largest wholesale fishing market and harbour on the Arabian Sea, dating back to the sixteenth century. Take in the sights and sound of a busy fish market at work, and check out the morning's fishing haul. Private VehicleKollam – Varkala5h-6h Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

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. Free TimeVarkalaFull Day Lots of free time to explore the town, relax with an Ayurvedic massage, get treated by local healers, or visit the Varkala Temple.

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. TrainVarkala – Kochi3h30m-4h Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride. Orientation WalkKochi1h-2h Get to know the delightful city of Kochi through this guided walk. Visit the Dutch Palace and Jewish Quarter, with its 400-year-old synagogue. Explore St Francis Church, the oldest church in India. Free TimeKochiAfternoon Visit any sites skipped on the first visit to Kochi. Your Big Night Out Moment: Kochi Nightlife Whether it’s a pub crawl, drink specials or a bonfire on the beach, celebrate late into the night with your new best friends.

Day 21 :

Kochi/Negombo

Fly from Kochi to the stunning island country of Sri Lanka, landing first in Negombo. Spend the evening at the beach relaxing under a leaning palm tree and toast to the sun a goodnight. Today, new travellers may join you for the rest of your adventure (yay! more friends). You are welcome to join them at a group meeting this evening followed by an optional dinner.

Day 22 :

Negombo/Sigiriya

Travel to the centre of the island to explore the UNESCO World Heritage City, Sigiriya. Opt to visit the Dambulla Cave Temple or the ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Private VehicleNegombo – Sigiriya4h30m156km Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. Free TimeSigiriya Head out to discover the area.

Day 23 :

Sigiriya

Spend the day freely exploring more of this ancient yet luscious region. Opt to visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, view elephants on a safari drive in Minneriya national park, or go back in time at the Anurhadhapura historical site. Free TimeSigiriya Get out and explore.

Day 24 :

Sigiriya/Digana

Visit a medicinal spice garden en route to Digana. After, enjoy lunch before embarking on a guided village walk for insight into rural daily life. Maybe stop at the home of a crafter who hand-makes delicate Kandyan jewellery or the cottage of a local woman making incense. Later, learn how to cook Sri Lankan bread or sweets while helping out with dinner. Private VehicleSigiriya – DiganaMorning Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. Spice Garden VisitKandy Visit a herbal centre where students of Ayurveda learn the traditional medicinal uses of various spices for massages and treatments. Enjoy demonstrations and learning about the different plants and their uses. Digana Guided Village WalkDiganaAfternoon Get a crash course in local life with a village walk through Digana. Learn about some of the essential local industries like it's milk collection point and dolomite mine. Meet with a local jeweller creating handicrafts from copper sheets and precious stones then take home personally crafted incense after a lesson in incense production by a local woman. Employing other women from the community, watch as oils and resins are mixed to craft the perfectly scented incense!

Day 25 :

Digana/Kandy

Enjoy breakfast and soak in the views of the Victoria Reservoir over tea before departing for Kandy. Have an afternoon of free time to explore the sweet city, opting to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, view a traditional Kandyan cultural show, or root for a team at a cricket match. Private VehicleDigana – KandyAfternoon Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. Free TimeKandyFull Day Explore Kandy with a full free day.

Day 26 :

Kandy/Nuwara Eliya

Enjoy a traditional breakfast prepared by women and youth living with disabilities at G Adventures-supported Sthree Craft Shop and Café. Travel on to the rolling hills and luscious forests of Nuwara Eliya. Visit a tea plantation and opt to explore the beauty on foot. Tea Plantation VisitNuwara Eliya1h-1h30m26km The town of Nuwara Eliya produces the finest Orange Pekoe Ceylon tea, and is inhabited mainly by tea planters and plantation workers. Pay a visit to one of the factories to learn all about tea production. Your G for Good Moment: Breakfast at Sthree Craft Shop and Café Make a pit stop at Sthree Craft Shop and Café to enjoy a local breakfast prepared by women and youth living with disabilities. Led by the Women's Development Centre, they provide livelihood opportunities through hospitality and handicraft training, empowering the surrounding community. Private VehicleKandy – Nuwara Eliya3h80km Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Day 27 :

Nuwara Eliya/Ella

If you want to experience morning mist flowing through the valley, wake early and trek the serene trails of Horton Plains National Park. In the afternoon, cruise to the laid-back village of Ella and enjoy a free evening to explore or relax. Private VehicleNuwara Eliya – Ella1h30m-2h Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. Free TimeEllaAfternoon Enjoy a free afternoon to relax or explore.

Day 28 :

Ella

Spend the morning trekking Little Adam's Peak to get a 360-degree view of Sri Lankan countryside encompassing the giant Ella Rock and textured green mountains. For the rest of the day, enjoy the freedom to explore scenic Ella more in-depth. Opt to trek Ella Rock, venture to the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, or hunt for some waterfalls with your fellow explorers. Free TimeEllaFull Day Get outside and explore scenic Ella. Little Adam's Peak TrekElla2h-3h Enjoy a hike up Little Adam's peak to catch stunning views of the town below.

Day 29 :

Ella/Hikkaduwa

Set off towards the southern coast stopping en route to explore the indestructible Galle Fort. Finish the day's journey oceanside on the white sand beaches of Hikkaduwa. Private VehicleElla – Galle4h30m-5h Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. Galle Fort TourGalle – Hikkaduwa Visit the Galle Fort, a 16th-century fort first built by the Portuguese, and later occupied by the Dutch. The ramparts are still standing even after being battered by Mother Nature, including the 2004 tsunami. Private VehicleGalle – Hikkaduwa30m Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Day 30 :

Hikkaduwa

Enjoy a free day to bliss out on the beach sipping your favourite drink or jump on a boat in search of whales and dolphins. For your big night out, follow your CEO to the best beach bar in town, enjoy a drink on us, and dance under the stars. Perhaps take a night swim, who knows, see where the night takes you. Free TimeHikkaduwa Enjoy a free day to do as much or as little as you'd like. Your Big Night Out Moment: Hikkaduwa Beach Bar Follow your CEO to the best beach bar, grab a drink on us, and cheers to all the life-changing adventures you've shared with new friends. Dance under the stars and perhaps take a night swim, who knows, see where the night takes you.

Day 31 :

Hikkaduwa

Another day in paradise to recover from last nights fun. Relax on the beach, snorkel with sea creators, or wander through the bustling beach town. Pick a local restaurant with your buds and reminisce about all the awesome adventures you've experienced over a farewell dinner. Free TimeHikkaduwaFull Day Don't waste a single second. Whether it's on the beach or throughout the town, get out and explore!

Day 32 :

Hikkaduwa

Wow! What a trip, right? Luckily there is no such thing as goodbye, only until next time. Hug your new friends, exchange social medias, and depart at any time.

India to Sri Lanka: The Pink City & Spice Gardens

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Map

Overview

Introduction

Travel Style: 18-to-Thirtysomethings

Service Level: Basic

Physical Rating: 3 – Average

Trip Type: Small Group

Age requirement: 18-39

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Inclusions

What's Included

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

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Overview

Introduction

Travel Style: 18-to-Thirtysomethings

Service Level: Basic

Physical Rating: 3 – Average

Trip Type: Small Group

Age requirement: 18-39

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Inclusions

What's Included

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Featured Trips

Related Trips