India: Agra, Rajasthan & Mumbai

What’s up India explorers! Who’s ready for an intoxicating dose of spice, flavour, yoga, beauty, colour, culture, and everything else wonderful that India can provide? The next 12 days are likely to be some of the best of your life so get ready for some serious memory making, starting off with meeting your new travel fam at kickstart this evening.

Today we’ll explore one of the world’s most hustling, bustling cities (home to a cool 25m people!) With a local guide, we’ll discover Old Delhi, travel by rickshaw, eat street food for lunch, and marvel at the Gurdwara Sikh Temple. Afterwards, the afternoon is yours to explore Delhi your way. Dinner tonight is a DIY vibe, tasting the best of Delhi with your new crew.

• Experience Delhi’s Delights

Today’s the day peeps (you know what we’re talking about). After stocking up at breakfast we’ll jump on the bus with Agra in our sights. Time for two of India’s finest. Today we’ll visit the UNESCO World Heritage Agra Fort, and then the main event – the Taj Mahal. We’ll hook you up with an entry ticket too, so you can spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace. Tonight, we’ll head out with the gang for another DIY dinner, Agra style.

• Walk the Marble Halls of Agra Fort
• Marvel at the Taj Mahal

Still living off the Taj dream we’ll wave goodbye to Agra early this morning with eyes firmly on the wild horizon. Welcome to Ranthambore, one of the largest National Parks in Northern India (and our home for the night.) After lunch, we’ll visit the Dhonk Craft Centre, a cooperative that preserves traditional artistry, empowers women and also prevents Bengal Tiger poaching. Later tonight, we’ll tuck into a tasty group dinner — set against an unforgettable backdrop.

• Support the Dhonk Centre MAKE TRAVEL MATTER ® Experience

Tiger time. This morning, we’ll head out on a sunrise safari adventure to try and spot these magnificent predators in the wild. Wild animals and an epic sunrise before breakfast, with Jaipur next on the agenda? Pretty perfect, right? Please Note: This Optional Experience must be pre-booked before your trip. Please be aware that availability is subject to restrictions set by the Ranthambore National Parks Board and cannot be guaranteed, even when pre-booked. On arrival to Jaipur, head straight into town to discover the traditional craftsmanship of high quality Rajasthani rugs, using age-old local techniques unique to the Pink City. Maybe even get a tailor made garment at a local tailor? You’ll then check in to your hotel and have the chance to cook and dine with a local family before the next day ’s adventure begins at the Amer Fort.

Today you'll discover Jaipur your way, with helpful insider tips from your Trip Manager. Want a deeper look at the city's history? Opt in for a guided tour of Amer Fort. Built from red sandstone and marble, this sprawling fort complex is home to palaces, pavilions and temples, showcasing both Hindu and Muslim architectural influences. You’ll also have the option to explore Jaipur's nooks and crannies on a bike ride, taking in a different side of the city as you pedal through its vibrant streets.

• See the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur

Jaipur you’ve been glorious, but the lush green hills and lavish marble palaces of Udaipur are calling us today as we jump on the coach for a full day of cross country travelling. Watch from the window as the landscape changes from flat dry lands to gorgeous green, and prepare yourself for an entirely different Indian experience.

Welcome to Udaipur. Today, our locally guided city tour will see us exploring the majestic City Palace and the Jagdish Temple. After lunch, the day is yours to continue your city wanderings. Don’t miss the fantastical palaces, tranquil boat rides, bustling bazaars and endless eateries.

• Tour the City of Udaipur

Say your goodbyes to the land of lakes this morning, as we set out on the drive to our next destination. Welcome to Ahmedabad (AKA the city from where Gandhi led India’s freedom movement!). The afternoon is all yours to wander buzzing streets, hunt down the best street eats, or just soak up the city’s vibrant energy.

Wakey Wakey. We're catching the early morning train to Mumbai, aiming to roll in around lunchtime. Mumbai is a sensory overload where workers, artists, celebrities and fishermen all walk the same walk. This afternoon, you'll have a chance to experience the city with an optional Khau Gully Food Tour, which celebrates the seismic street food of Mumbai.

Wanna see Mumbai differently? Rise with the locals for our optional ‘Mumbai at Dawn’ tour, where we’ll watch the city as it starts its day. After breakfast, our local guide will take us on a sightseeing tour of India Gate, the Hanging Gardens, the Dhobi Ghat and more. You'll also have the option to hit the dancefloor Bollywood style, with a truly unique dance class. The final night is all yours to take in the city's chaos and charm.

• Feel the Magic of Mumbai

Even the biggest and best adventures have to end at some point, and this morning sees the finale of ours. After a final breakfast together it’s time for the long (and possibly teary) goodbye. Sure you’ll be sad, but remembering all of the massive moments and seemly insignificant giggles in-between will see you smiling your whole journey home.