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- Itinerary
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India North to South Tour – Guided Adventure from Delhi to Kochi
Explore the magic of India with this India North to South Tour – a 21-night journey designed for travellers aged 18–39 who want authentic experiences, rich culture and a bit of adventure. Inspired by the TV series Race Across the World, this affordable, fast-paced tour captures the essence of India in one seamless itinerary – all with the support of experienced local guides and small group camaraderie.
From Delhi to Kochi: Culture, Colour & Coastal Calm
Your journey begins in the capital, Delhi, where rickshaws, street food and markets provide a chaotic and fascinating welcome. Visit the Taj Mahal in Agra before heading into the colourful state of Rajasthan, including Jaipur, Pushkar and the rural village of Tordi Sagar. Wander through Udaipur’s lakeside charm and experience Ahmedabad before arriving in buzzing Mumbai.
The second half of your trip takes you to the beaches of Goa, the spice-scented backwaters of Kerala, and the colonial beauty of Kochi. Travel is by a mix of private and public transport – including trains and internal flights – keeping costs low while letting you see the real India.
An Affordable Tour with Everything You Need
This Glen Travel tour is ideal for independent-minded young travellers who still want a professionally organised trip. You’ll stay in simple, clean hostels and hotels, with some truly unique experiences included. Enjoy a guided visit to the Taj Mahal, a homestay in Alleppey, sunrise at Pushkar’s Savitri Temple, Kerala backwater tours, and orientation walks in key cities.
A total of 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners are included. We’ve kept the itinerary flexible so you can choose where to eat, with support from your guide on the best local spots. Eating together as a group is encouraged – it’s a great way to share the experience and sample a wider range of Indian dishes. India is a dream destination for vegetarians and food lovers, with plenty of local options in every city.
Internal Flights & Travel Details
Internal flights are included between key segments of the tour, ensuring a smoother and more efficient route across the country. Please note that airlines within India have a standard baggage allowance of 15kg for checked luggage and 7kg for carry-on. Additional baggage fees may apply at the time of check-in and are the responsibility of the traveller.
Train travel is also part of the journey, offering a truly local experience – especially in sleeper class where luggage must fit under bunks. While Glen Travel and our local team will assist, you’ll be expected to handle your own bags on these segments.
What to Pack for India – Travel Light, Travel Smart
You’ll need to carry your own luggage during the tour, so packing light is essential. Backpacks or small rolling bags are recommended – suitcases are not ideal. We suggest a total bag weight of 10–15kg and a small daypack for excursions. Essentials include:
Modest clothing for temple visits (shoulders and knees covered)
Lightweight, breathable clothes for warm weather
Waterproof jacket and pack cover
Sandals and sturdy walking shoes
Flashlight or headlamp
Personal toiletries and a basic first-aid kit
Reusable water bottle and insect repellent
Travel towel, sun protection, and a universal adapter
All travellers should carry photocopies of important documents (passport, insurance, visas), and bring a pen for forms and arrivals.
Explore India, Glen Travel Style
Whether you’re chasing temples, tuk-tuks, or tandoori, this India North to South Tour is your chance to see the country from a fresh perspective. Experience culture, history, nature, and nightlife – all in one trip.
Have questions or want to know if this trip is right for you? Get in touch with our team for expert advice and booking support.
Based on 2 adults aged 18–39 departing from Edinburgh on 15th September 2025.
Itinerary
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!
Please note this tour departs Delhi early on Day 2, so book pre-accommodation if you would like to explore the city more in depth. Opt to wander through the heart of India's capital city and explore Old and New Delhi. Travel by the new metro or auto rickshaws and visit the famous Jama Masjid (Great Mosque) where you can climb the minaret for a bird's eye view of the old city. Explore Chandni Chowk, one of India's oldest and busiest markets or head to the colourful spice market -- a great photo opportunity.
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.
Accommodation
Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.
Hotel Metropolitan (or similar)
TrainDelhi – Āgra 2h-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 Mahal 1h-3h
We will aim to experience the Taj Mahal at either sunset or sunrise, depending upon our train tickets and travel schedule.
Optional Activities - Day 2
Agra Fort VisitĀgra1h-3h650INR per person
Enjoy a visit to this impressive Mughal fort made of red sandstone and white marble.
Baby Taj Visit Āgra310INR per person
Visit this mausoleum that looks like a jewel box, built before the Taj Mahal by Queen Nur Jahan for her father. Enjoy the intricate details of the structure; it was the first Mughal building faced with white marble and where "pietra dura" (precious stones inlaid into marble) was first used.
Orientation Walk – Agra Āgra
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 – Jaipur 7h
There will be a stop around the half-way point for snacks and toilets.
Accommodation
Rawla Mrignayani Palace (or similar)
Admire the city from above by pre-booking the Jaipur Balloon Ride when booking your tour.
Amber Fort Guided Tour Amber 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 Time Jaipur Afternoon
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.
Optional Activities - Day 4
Movie at Raj MandirJaipur200-400INR per person
Visit this spectacular cinema and watch a song-and-dance Bollywood film.
The Jaipur Observatory VisitJaipur202INR per person
Visit one of five astronomical observatories constructed in the early 18th century in India. There are 14 major devices that have been well-preserved that were built to predict eclipses, measure time, and track stars, among other functions. The largest device stands at 27m high.
City Palace Visit Jaipur 1000INR per person
Explore the courtyards, gardens, and buildings that make up the City Palace. Located in the heart of the Old City, it is a striking blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture. Visit the palace's museum to look at ancient carriages and the former maharaja's gold-embroidered wedding outfit.
Jaipur Balloon Ride Jaipur
Begin your day at dawn, just as the sun starts to rise. As you drift into the sky, enjoy the silence and serenity of the morning, watching as the day starts for the colourfully dressed inhabitants below. From high in the sky, you may float over rolling hills, villages teeming with life, and a small monastery. You may even spot elephants—if luck is on your side.
Available September 1 - April 30.
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.
Optional Activities - Day 5
Jaipur Cycle TourJaipur
With its many lanes and organized layout, Jaipur is the perfect location to explore by bicycle. Choosing to cycle through the city on this morning tour will introduce you to sights, sounds and smells that a vehicle just can't match, so grab a helmet and jump on your bike! Navigate the streets of the 'Pink City' with the help of your experienced guide, starting the day with a traditional Indian yoghurt drink of Lassi. Marvel at the architectural wonders as you enter the walled part of the city and stop at the City Palace to visit the Govind Dev temple. Wander through the historical spices and sweets market, stopping for tea and a tasty snack of pakoras before heading towards the majestic Albert Hall Museum where the tour ends. Taxi transfers from the hotel to the starting point and from the finishing point back to the hotel are included in the price of this cycle tour.
Tordi Sagar Jeep SafariTordi Garh1h-2h600-700INR per person
Get in a jeep and enjoy a ride in the pastoral settings of this tiny, tranquil village.
Tordi Sagar Camel Cart RideTordi Garh1h-2h600-700INR per person
Take a ride in a cart pulled by the "desert horse" and explore the pastoral settings of this tiny, tranquil village.
4x4Tordi Sāgar – Pushkar4h
Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.
Pushkar Orientation Walk Pushkar 1h3km
Join your CEO for an orientation to explore key parts of this desert city, including beautiful lakes and ghats. Visit the famed Brahma temple, meet a local pandit and understand/take part in the ancient rituals
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.
Optional Activities - Day 7
Massage
Revive sore muscles with a relaxing massage.
Yoga ClassPushkar
Stretch and hold poses in this gentle but effective form of exercise.
Traditional Dinner in the DesertPushkar2h30m-4h10km1200INR per person
Try on traditional Indian clothes and head out to the desert for an evening you won't soon forget. Enjoy a delicious traditional meal prepared and served by local cameleers. Get into the spirit with music, dancing, and entertainment presented by a group of Roma people before returning to Pushkar at night.
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 Walk Udaipur
Go on a guided orientation walk and get to know local markets and key places.
Optional Activities - Day 8
Boat ride on Lake PicholaUdaipur500INR per person
Board a boat and cruise around Lake Pichola, taking in views of Udaipur from the water and getting a closer view of the spectacular Lake Palace, which was voted the most romantic hotel in India.
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.
Your Discover Moment Udaipur Full Day
There's plenty to see and do in Udaipur, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like visiting the Monsoon Palace, learning about Rajasthani cuisine with a cooking class, and visiting the Saheliyon-ki-Bari Garden. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
Optional Activities - Days 9–10
Jagdish Temple Visit Udaipur
Visit the intricately-carved Jagdish Temple, which pays homage to Vishnu, the Hindu god of preservation. Make sure to take a peek at the black stoned image of Vishnu that's housed inside the shrine.
Shopping
Scour the local shops and stalls for unique wares to remind you of your travels to the region.
City Palace VisitUdaipur1h-2h450INR per person
Visit Rajasthan's largest palace to get a sense of how royalty lived. Take in the view from one of its many intricately-decorated balconies, with one side facing the stunning Lake Palace.
Monsoon Palace VisitUdaipur505INR per person
Hop in an auto rickshaw and head outside of Udaipur to the stunning Monsoon Palace, perched high above town. Enjoy sweeping views of the city and surrounding lakes and countryside. Consider visiting at sunset for an unforgettable view.
Ranakpur Jain Temples VisitRanakpur1h-2h200-300INR per person
Enjoy a visit to this magnificent white marble temple devoted to Adinath, a god in the Jain religion. Jains believe in "ahimsa," non-violence to all living beings. Built in the 15th century, the temple has 1444 individually carved pillars.
Udaipur Sunrise Cycle TourUdaipur3h-3h30m20km
Discover the early morning serenity of Udaipur with a ride along the city's picturesque lakes as the sun rises. Embark in the village of Kalarohu, travelling towards Fateh Sagar Lake to observe the lake's three islands as the birds flock to the tranquil waters. Cycle past agricultural workers in action in the lush farming communities of Badi and Hawala before making a loop around the hilltop palatial residence, Monsoon Palace. Travel on through more villages to reach Tiger Lake, this morning's setting for a picnic breakfast. The tour offers ample opportunities for photographs and to learn more about Indian history so don't forget your camera! The journey concludes with a downhill ride towards our finishing point.
Rajasthani Cultural ShowUdaipur1km250INR per person
Enjoy an evening cultural show that includes traditional music and dancing from the state of Rajasthan.
Udaipur Cooking SchoolUdaipur2h-3h
This your chance to learn from the locals how to make authentic Rajasthani dishes. Start the class with a warming cup of masala chai as your hosts introduce you to the range of ingredients and spices that will formulate your lunch menu. Watch as they demonstrate how to make rice, curries, and chapatis or opt to get hands-on and join them in cooking up these tasty dishes. Tuck in and enjoy your creations for lunch.
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.
Your Discover Moment Udaipur Full Day
There's plenty to see and do in Udaipur, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like visiting the Monsoon Palace, learning about Rajasthani cuisine with a cooking class, and visiting the Saheliyon-ki-Bari Garden. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
Optional Activities - Days 9–10
Jagdish Temple Visit Udaipur
Visit the intricately-carved Jagdish Temple, which pays homage to Vishnu, the Hindu god of preservation. Make sure to take a peek at the black stoned image of Vishnu that's housed inside the shrine.
Shopping
Scour the local shops and stalls for unique wares to remind you of your travels to the region.
City Palace VisitUdaipur1h-2h450INR per person
Visit Rajasthan's largest palace to get a sense of how royalty lived. Take in the view from one of its many intricately-decorated balconies, with one side facing the stunning Lake Palace.
Monsoon Palace VisitUdaipur505INR per person
Hop in an auto rickshaw and head outside of Udaipur to the stunning Monsoon Palace, perched high above town. Enjoy sweeping views of the city and surrounding lakes and countryside. Consider visiting at sunset for an unforgettable view.
Ranakpur Jain Temples VisitRanakpur1h-2h200-300INR per person
Enjoy a visit to this magnificent white marble temple devoted to Adinath, a god in the Jain religion. Jains believe in "ahimsa," non-violence to all living beings. Built in the 15th century, the temple has 1444 individually carved pillars.
Udaipur Sunrise Cycle TourUdaipur3h-3h30m20km
Discover the early morning serenity of Udaipur with a ride along the city's picturesque lakes as the sun rises. Embark in the village of Kalarohu, travelling towards Fateh Sagar Lake to observe the lake's three islands as the birds flock to the tranquil waters. Cycle past agricultural workers in action in the lush farming communities of Badi and Hawala before making a loop around the hilltop palatial residence, Monsoon Palace. Travel on through more villages to reach Tiger Lake, this morning's setting for a picnic breakfast. The tour offers ample opportunities for photographs and to learn more about Indian history so don't forget your camera! The journey concludes with a downhill ride towards our finishing point.
Rajasthani Cultural ShowUdaipur1km250INR per person
Enjoy an evening cultural show that includes traditional music and dancing from the state of Rajasthan.
Udaipur Cooking SchoolUdaipur2h-3h
This your chance to learn from the locals how to make authentic Rajasthani dishes. Start the class with a warming cup of masala chai as your hosts introduce you to the range of ingredients and spices that will formulate your lunch menu. Watch as they demonstrate how to make rice, curries, and chapatis or opt to get hands-on and join them in cooking up these tasty dishes. Tuck in and enjoy your creations for lunch.
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.
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 Time Mumbai Full Day
Opt to go on a taxi tour around town, visit Elephanta Island.
Local TrainAhmedabad – Mumbai7h30m-8hMorning
Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.
Optional Activities - Day 12
City TourMumbai4h-8h2000-4000INR per group
Visit the main highlights of Mumbai on either a half-day or full-day driving tour of this lively city. Tours will visit the Victoria Terminus Train Station (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Chowpatty Beach, Marine Drive, and Dhobi Ghat, the largest open-air laundry area in Mumbai, among other highlights.
Free TimeMumbai
Enjoy free time to explore Mumbai on your own.
Basic Overnight Train (beds)Mumbai – Goa9h-10h
Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.
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.
Free Time Goa
Explore the beaches and markets of charming Goa at leisure. Chow down on seafood, relax at the beach-bliss!
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.
Today, new travellers may join you for the rest of your adventure (woo! new friends). You are welcome to join them at a group meeting this evening followed by an optional dinner.
PlaneGoa – Kochi3h15m
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
The transfer to the Goa airport is approximately 45 minutes, and the CEO will inform you of the transfer time along with flight information. There will be a transfer waiting at the Kochi airport. This flight is not accompanied by a CEO.
Orientation Walk Kochi1h-2h
Get to know the delightful city of Cochin through this guided walk. Walk through the fish market and the famous Chinese fishing net, believed to have been brought by traders from Kubla Khan's court in China.
Private Vehicle Kochi – Alleppey1h30m
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Alleppey Guided Walk Alleppey1h-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!
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 Bus Alleppey – Kollam1h30m-2h
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Orientation With CEO 30m-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.
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.
Optional Activities - Day 18
Janardhana Swamy Temple VisitVarkala
Enjoy a visit to this beautiful temple that gives homage to Janardana Swami, who is a form of Vishnu, the Hindu god of preservation. Pilgrims from the south of India make the trek to visit this 2000-year-old temple and pay their respects.
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.
Optional Activities - Day 19
Janardhana Swamy Temple VisitVarkala
Enjoy a visit to this beautiful temple that gives homage to Janardana Swami, who is a form of Vishnu, the Hindu god of preservation. Pilgrims from the south of India make the trek to visit this 2000-year-old temple and pay their respects.
Ayurvedic MassageDharamshala1h-2h
Ayurvedic medicine is a system of Hindu traditional medicine, and Ayurvedic massage has been practiced in India for centuries and is viewed as a part of holistic medicine. These massage techniques provide relaxation, improve circulation, and eliminate of toxins. Lie back and enjoy!
TrainVarkala – Kochi 3h30m-4h
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
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.
Optional Activities - Day 20
Kathakali DanceKochi500INR per person
Considered one of the oldest dance forms in India, Kathakali is a combination of drama, dance, music, and ritual. Characters with vividly painted faces and elaborate costumes re-enact stories from the Hindu epics, Mahabharata and Ramayana. This dance drama is famous for amazing costumes, extensive makeup, and explosive body movements, and is performed exclusively by men.