Namaste India

Ready to delve deeper into this energetic city? We thought so. First: a walking tour through Old Delhi – ticking off the likes of Jama Masjid mosque (the largest in India, just sayin’) and bustling Khari Baoli spice market. Then, we’ll give the legs a rest and jump aboard an exciting (nail-biting) cycle rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk market. Later, we’re off to check out the mesmerising Qutub Minar – the tallest brick minaret in the world. What you do tonight is totally up to you, but if you need suggestions Connaught Place is THE place for delicious street food. Tikka roll, anyone?

Leave the hectic streets of Delhi behind as we make tracks for magical Agra. Channel your inner Maharajah as we explore Agra Fort with our expert Trip Leader. There’s a reason this red-washed fortress is considered one of the finest in India – soak it alllll in. Then: time to satisfy your inner foodie with an optional chaat crawl. Chaat got you WTF-ing? Just think: savoury street snacks, deep fried to deliciousness and topped with tangy sauces. It’s fast food – just spicier. Still hungry? Get the gang together to hunt down the city’s best paratha. Your Trip Leader will know where.

This is it. That goose bump generating moment that you’ll remember for a lifetime. Watch as the dawn light illuminates the famous Taj Mahal with a mesmerising golden glow and take a moment – yep, you’re actually here. Once you’ve soaked up all the wanderlust vibes – it’s onwards to Chand Baori Stepwell. Like one giant stairmaster, this baby is the largest stepwell in the world – with 13 stories made up of 3,500 steps arranged in perfect symmetry. This arvo, we’ll roll into the ‘Pink City’ – where an optional cooking class with a local family is on the cards, if you’re keen. Rather explore Jaipur solo? Hire a tuk tuk and immerse yourself in this spellbinding city by night.

Another day, another amazing ancient fortress to explore. We’ll take a 4x4 Jeep through the winding alleyways to the gates of Amber Fort – before wondering the extensive complex of colourful rooms and lush courtyards with our in-the-know Trip Leader. After, the afternoon is free to do our own spontaneous this-is-what-I-came-here-for thing. Check out the incredible Hawa Mahal. Hint: get the best photo from the cafe/tattoo parlour opposite. Pick up souvenirs at Johari Bazaar. Or sample some authentic Rajasthani food at Thali House. Then? We’re hitting the cinemas – Bollywood-style! *Heads up! If you’re here for Diwali (Oct 31st departure) or Holi Festival (Mar 14th departure), we’ll celebrate the REAL way – joining a local family to take part in rituals, street festivals and colour-filled parties. We’ll work the sightseeing around the festivities, don’t worry.

Disclaimer: today has an early wake up call. BUT we’re gonna feel like proper locals taking the train from the ‘Pink City’ to the ‘Blue City’ (feeling a theme here?). So, pull out the UNO cards and catch up on some zzz’s – we’ll be there in no time. First up: the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort. Towering over the old city, Mehrangarh was chiseled from the rocky cliff face where it stands. Sick, right? Later explore the tangle of blue cube houses in Old Town, winding medieval streets and buzzing bazaars before tucking into dinner overlooking the Fort lit up like Christmas. This is livin’.

After breakfast, give a silent salute to Jodhpur as we roll onto Udaipur. But first: a pit stop at Ranakpur. Home to one of the most significant Jain temples in India - you're gonna want your cameras charged for this one. Once you're done gaping like a loon at the intricate geometric patterns of the temple pillars we'll move on. Tonight, this beautiful lakeside city is yours for the taking. Wander the city's romantic centre and discover why they call this place the 'Jewel of Rajasthan'. Head to Millets of Mewar for their drool-worthy aubergine (eggplant) curry. Then, gather the gang and hunt down a local bar with views over the lake.

Say namaste to a full day of uncovering the magic of this place. Kick things off with an optional yoga class – then we’ll explore Udaipur’s quaint crooked streets and colourful bazaars with our Trip Leader. Tick off the likes of Jagdish Temple and the Palace – then we’ll set sail on the beautiful Lake Pichola for a sunset cruise. It doesn’t get better than this.

Nobody panic – but this is our last full day together. So, don’t waste a second. Soak up all the tranquil rural vibes on an optional cycling tour through Udaipur’s surrounding villages – complete with sunrise over the lake and a piping cup of roadside chai. Mmm. Then? It’s back to the electrifying energy of Delhi. We’ll catch some zzz’s on the flight – before heading to a local restaurant for dinner with the gang. Time to give this AMAZING trip the send-off it deserves. *Remember: this domestic flight has a capped luggage allowance of 15kgs. Meaning? Keep it light! If you really can’t go without, you can purchase an extra 5kgs at the airport for approximately $45 AUD.

Get down to breakfast and swap those socials – you’re gonna need them for next year’s reunion trip. Sticking around? We don’t blame you. This place is filled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered.