Day 1: Delhi
Namaste! Welcome to India. When you arrive at the airport, you'll be met by an Intrepid representative and transferred to your accommodation. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 5 pm tonight at your hotel, where you’ll meet your local leader and the other families who will be joining you for your adventure. After the meeting, head out for a welcome dinner to get to know your group and feast on some decadent North Indian cuisine.
Day 2: Delhi
Uncover Old Delhi this morning on a guided tour of this historic district. Explore Delhi’s buzzing streets, colourful Chandi Chowk Market and see examples of Mughal architecture like the Jama Masjid – India’s oldest and largest mosque. Part of your today will be in a rickshaw which is sure to be a hit with the kids! Stop for lunch, then visit the India Gate. This archway was built in 1921 as a memorial for the Indian soldiers who lost their lives in WWI. The rest of the afternoon is free for you and your family to explore at your own pace. Be sure to ask your local leader for their recommendations on the city’s must-see spots and the best places for dinner tonight.
Day 3: Agra
You’ll be transferred to New Delhi Railway Station this morning for your express train to Agra. Have breakfast on board and enjoy scenic countryside views as you travel. When you arrive in Agra, you’ll transfer to your hotel in a private vehicle. Check in, then get ready to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Agra Fort this afternoon. On a guided tour, you and the kids will see the intricacy of the architecture and carved marble walls at this red sandstone fortress which was built in the 16th century. Tonight, join your leader and the other families for a hearty dinner after a day full of exploring.
Day 4: Bharatpur
The early start this morning will be well worth it – get ready to witness the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, at sunrise. The memory of the dawn glow over the glistening white marble of the Taj Mahal is one the kids won’t soon forget. You’ll then go on a guided tour of this iconic monument – emperor Shah Jahan commissioned this mausoleum for his wife in the 17th century. Learn about the incredible engineering techniques that were used and admire the details of what’s considered the epitome of Mughal architecture. Then, have breakfast and transfer to Bharatpur by private vehicle. When you arrive, it’s time for some wildlife spotting! You’ll visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Keoladeo National Park for a safari on an e-rickshaw. This nature reserve is a treat for those who love bird watching – more than 350 bird species have been recorded here. You might spot Eurasian cranes, flamingos, spoonbills and herons. Exploring via e-rickshaw will give you and the kids a quieter, more intimate experience of the wetlands and the incredible wildlife that flourishes here. This evening, you’ll have dinner at your accommodation for the night – a heritage hotel that was formerly a royal palace.
Day 5: Jaipur
This morning, transfer to Jaipur, AKA the ‘Pink City’. You’ll spend the next two nights at your Feature Stay, Narain Niwas Palace – a comfortable heritage hotel owned and operated by the same family since 1928. This hotel captures the feel of a traditional, refined Jaipur family home with elegant details throughout, including stained glass windows and delicate chandeliers. Make sure you take the kids to check out the gardens and see if you can spot the wild peacocks roaming around. Today, you’ll embark on a tour of the city with Intrepid Foundation partner Pink City Rickshaw Company – this not-for-profit aims to create meaningful employment opportunities for women from low-income households in Jaipur. Hit all the highlights and hear your driver’s personal perspective on the city as you ride along. Then, your rickshaw driver will drop you off at a local home, where your family will be welcomed in for a cooking class. Get hands-on in the kitchen and learn about the host family’s culture and traditions.
Day 6: Jaipur
Head to Jhalana Leopard Safari Park for some thrilling sightings of this powerful big cat. You might also see striped hyenas, Indian civets, jackals, porcupines and chitals (spotted deer). After the safari, you’ll have breakfast. Then, the rest of the day is free for you and your family to either see more of Jaipur or simply relax and enjoy the comfort of your hotel. Maybe take the kids for a dip in the pool or relax with a good book. This evening, you’ll learn some new moves at a Bollywood dance class, then, when you’re all worn out, join the group for dinner.
Day 7: Delhi
You’ll transfer to Jaipur train station this morning and take the express train back to Delhi. When you arrive, transfer to your hotel, then you and your family are free to decide how to spend the rest of your day. Your local leader will be ready with advice on how to make the most of the final full day of your trip. Tonight, you’ll have a farewell dinner with the group at the historic United Coffee House. Share the memories you’ve made and celebrate a trip well-travelled!
Day 8: Delhi
With no further activities planned, your trip comes to an end after breakfast today. A departure transfer will be provided. If you’d like to extend your stay in Delhi, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.