India - Kolkata to Amritsar (16 days)
An all-encompassing trip visiting many of the highlights of Northern India. Suitable for anyone in reasonable health, you should be able to get on and off the (sometimes steeply stepped) trains unassisted and carry your own luggage along long station platforms and stairs (porters are not always available).
Kolkata to Varanasi:More familiarly known as Calcutta, we visit historical sites, take time to wander in the flower market and enjoy fine views of the Ganges, known locally as the Hooghly River. We join the flow of Buddhist pilgrims travelling to Bodh Gaya, where the Buddha attained enlightenment. Continuing along the pilgrims' trail, our journey takes us to Varanasi where Hindu devotees purify themselves in the sacred waters of the Ganges.
Taj Mahal & Toy Trains:In Agra we spend time at the magnificent Taj Mahal and explore the preserved 'ghost city' of Fatehpur Sikri. From the thriving metropolis of Delhi we journey up into the mighty Himalaya, aboard a relic of the Raj, the narrow gauge 'Toy' train to the hill station of Shimla. Here, at the former British summer capital, we take in the fresh air and magnificent views. There are opportunities for walks or to wander in the warren-like bazaar.
Golden Temple & Wagah:Descending from the mountains we travel to the Punjab and the city of Amritsar, which owes its existence to the renowned Golden Temple - the holiest of Sikh shrines. To spend time in its marbled courtyards and shrines is a unique experience. From here it's just a short distance to the Pakistan border at Wagah where we watch the colourful (and noisy!) changing of the guard.
- Day 1: Fly from home
- Day 2: Arrive Kolkata
- Day 3: City tour
- Day 4: Train to Gaya; drive Bodhgaya
- Day 5: Visit Mahabodi Temple; train to Varanasi
- Day 6: Visit Sarnath; sunset boat trip on Ganges
- Day 7: Optional sunrise boat trip; overnight train to Agra
- Day 8: In Agra; visit Fort
- Day 9: In Agra; visit Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri
- Day 10: Train to Delhi; tour of New Delhi
- Day 11: Old Delhi by metro and rickshaw
- Day 12: Train to Kalka; toy train to Shimla
- Day 13: In Shimla; orientation walk
- Day 14: Bus to Ambala; train to Amritsar
- Day 15: Visit Golden temple; trip to Pakistan border
- Day 16: Depart for home.
Operated by Explore Worldwide (RBA)
Departures: October to December, February to April
- Contact us for more information, current costs and to make a booking on this small group adventure