Your heartfelt encounter with a local Rajasthan community will see you 'Make a Difference' to their efforts to break the cycle of poverty and uplift their families.
Your heartfelt encounter with a local Rajasthan community will see you 'Make a Difference' to their efforts to break the cycle of poverty and uplift their families.
Embrace the vibrant energy of Delhi, the capital of India. On arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel where this evening you'll join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception with drinks and appetisers.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Sheraton New Delhi
We 'Dive into Culture' this morning, embarking on an exhilarating rickshaw ride around Old Delhi. We'll view the UNESCO-listed Red Fort - its towering red sandstone palace walls considered to be the most opulent of the Mughal Empire, followed by a visit to Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Our next stop at Chandni Chowk to see first-hand how its merchants spend their day trading enthusiastically. We continue along the ceremonial avenue Rajpath and past Parliament House and India Gate, commemorating the Indian soldiers who died during WWI. After lunch in a local restaurant, we'll head to the district of New Delhi, where we'll visit the UNESCO-listed Humayun's Tomb to admire its magnificent Persian-style façades of white marble and red sandstone. Then it's on to another UNESCO-listed site, Qutub Minar, the world's tallest brick minaret. Our evening is at leisure.
Embark on a pilgrimage to the sacred city of Varanasi, located on the banks of the holy river Ganges. Immerse yourself in its spiritual surrounds, exploring the city's role as the centre of Hindu religion, before escaping to the countryside and 'Make a Difference' with a visit to Rameshwar village. 'Dive into Culture' and witness first-hand how all local activities are aimed at sustainable livelihood and community empowerment whilst ensuring the economic growth of the under-privileged. Observe local women making papad and pickles, doing embroidery or making saris which they sell to the local markets. Visit the village school and the Shanti Dham Ashram, a catholic prayer centre for the Christian society living in Varanasi. Feed your soul as you cruise down the River Ganges to witness the ritual of Aarti, watching as the delicate diya laden with a candle and tiny blooms floats in a magical train down the river. Return to our hotel for dinner.
Admire the pink light of sunrise appear over the River Ganges, watching the sights and sounds of Varanasi stir slowly along the banks of the river. Observe the locals taking their morning bath in the holy water while worshipping the rising sun. Then, return to your hotel for breakfast followed by a visit to Sarnath, one of the four holy Buddhist sites sanctioned by the Buddha himself for pilgrimage. Explore the spectacular collection of Buddhist artefacts dating back to the 3 BC and see the Lion Capital of Ashoka with its inverted lotus carving, adopted as the national emblem of India. Return to your hotel for an afternoon and evening at leisure.
Take a short flight to Agra to delve into the imperial history of the Mughal Empire and India's Golden Age. Visit the UNESCO-listed Agra Fort this afternoon, gaining insight into the heritage, rituals and traditions of the dynasty that ruled here until the 17th century. As you drive through the city's crowded streets, connect with its vibrant spirit and witness local life first-hand. Enjoy dinner at your hotel and consider joining an Optional Experience.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Double Tree by Hilton
The Taj Mahal represents the finest example of Mughal architecture and the ‘Mohabbat-e-Taj’ show, with the backdrop of the largest replica of the Taj Mahal to date, brings to life this wonderful monument. Spend an enjoyable evening at the show and gain an insight into what life might have been like in those days. Discover the epic love story of the emperor Shah Jahan and Mumtaz in a typical Bollywood song and dance show, performed by over 80 talented artists dressed in lavish costumes.
Adult Price: $55.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 6
AGRA - JAIPUR (2 NIGHTS)
Rise with the birds, embarking on a spiritual encounter with the magnificent UNESCO-listed Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Watch as the white alabaster marble of this monument of love glows pink and gold at the first hints of sunrise, admiring the flawless architecture that took 18 years and over 20,000 craftsmen to complete. Return to your hotel for breakfast, then depart for Jaipur, the Pink City and gateway to the colourful state of Rajasthan. This evening, we 'Connect with Locals', joining a local family for a Be My Guest dinner in their home.
Our first stop this morning sees us explore Jaipur's UNESCO-listed Amber Fort, one of the country's most exquisite examples of Rajput architecture. Marvel at its royal halls decorated with intricate ivory, mirror and glass work, before returning to your hotel. En route, we'll enjoy a quick photo stop outside the Palace of Winds, whose latticed windows once revealed the outside world to the sheltered ladies of the royal household. This afternoon, we embark on a city tour including a visit to the ornate City Palace to see the seamless blend of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal Art. Across the road from the palace is the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar, featuring the largest sundial in the world. Later this evening, we'll join our fellow guests and Travel Director for a Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant.
Embark on a journey into India's Rajasthan countryside, meeting your ME to WE guide at Jaipur bound for Udaipur. On arrival, you'll make your way to the rural surrounds of Araveli Lodge, where you'll learn how rural communities are working to break the cycle of poverty and uplift the community through education, healthcare and food security projects. Brush up on your Hindi before meeting the local community and immerse yourself in their warm embrace as you interact with local students and villagers who are directly impacted by the work you are doing. Take a moment to participate in puja - a traditional Hindu prayer ceremony to bless your new initiative, then learn about the village and school you will help to rebuild. Discover how your efforts and the work of WE Charity make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and their families. Lunch and dinner are prepared by Chef KK, a local who is passionate about sharing traditional cuisine and explaining the story behind each dish.
Begin your day like the locals and centre yourself through a session of morning yoga, or consider joining a dosha class to balance your body. Rub shoulders with the local women as you assist with their daily activities - making chapatti in their homes, hauling water from the local well and feeding the animals. Escape the midday sun and indulge in a brief jhapki (siesta) and lunch at Araveli Cottages and Tented Camp before returning to the day's activities. Meet a local farmer to gain insights into his agricultural challenges and successes, then roll up your sleeves and begin work at the build site, where guests of all ages and abilities will help build a much-needed facility for the community. Your reward for a day of hard work is a colourful performance, showcasing local folk dance traditions.
Join a local guide this morning for a leisurely walk through the beautiful foothills of the Mewar region before returning to the project site where you'll continue to work as a team to contribute to the project the community needs most at that time. Enjoy a well-deserved afternoon at leisure to connect with the age-old customs, culture and craft of the villagers, from henna and tie-dying to block printing. Meet the men and women involved in alternative income projects and learn about their daily struggle to support their families. During this open discussion, you'll have an opportunity to delve into their lives in rural India and discuss gender roles in the community. Later, return to the project site to continue your team project.
As the sun rises, so do we for our morning yoga practice. After a special farewell breakfast, say bidaai ka vachan to your new friends at Araveli and transfer to Udaipur's Maharana Pratap Airport for your onward flight.
The Taj Mahal represents the finest example of Mughal architecture and the ‘Mohabbat-e-Taj’ show, with the backdrop of the largest replica of the Taj Mahal to date, brings to life this wonderful monument. Spend an enjoyable evening at the show and gain an insight into what life might have been like in those days. Discover the epic love story of the emperor Shah Jahan and Mumtaz in a typical Bollywood song and dance show, performed by over 80 talented artists dressed in lavish costumes.
Adult Price: $55.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
All Optional Experiences
The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Enjoy dinner with a local family at their home in Jaipur. (Day 6)
DIVE INTO CULTURE
Take a rickshaw tour around the Old Delhi (Day 2). In Varanasi, visit the rural life and observe the locals taking a morning bath in the holy water at the River Ganges (Day 4)
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
At Rameshwar Village, you'll discover the 'Learn and Earn' programme which helps to raise the economic and social status of local rural women (Day 3). Extend your Trafalgar trip and join MeToWe for the unforgettable experience of working side by side with a local community (Day 9 & 10).
Sightseeing highlights
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CITY TOUR of Delhi, Varanasi and Jaipur
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VIEW the Palace of Winds in Jaipur
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VISIT the Jama Masjid, the Humayun's Tomb, the Qutub Minar in Delhi, Sarnath near Varanasi, the Agra Fort, the Taj Mahal in Agra, the Amber Fort, City Palace Museum in Jaipur
Daily breakfast and an average of 50% of evening meals
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Luxury air-conditioned coach or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
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Hand-picked Insider Experiences
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Optional Experiences and free time
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Porterage and local charges included
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
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An expert Travel Director and separate Driver
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All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
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Airport transfers on the first and last day of your guided holiday
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Trip Notes
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Special Rate Solo Rooming: The following departures of XX January, XX February, XX March, XX April, XX October and XX November 2018 and XX February and XX March 2020 include a discount of up to XX% on our standard single supplement.
2020 departures are subject to change of itinerary, price, discount and hotels. These will be confirmed in June 2019.
Important Information: For the trip starting in Delhi on 22 December, a Gala Dinner is included at the Hotel Radisson, Varanasi on 24 December instead of dinner on 23 December.
Flights: Prices include airfare and taxes for flights from Delhi to Varanasi, Varanasi to Agra and Jaipur to Udaipur and are accurate as of 1st June 2018.
On this trip extension you will get to experience a life changing side by side volunteer project and see first hand how you can make a difference to the local communities. MeToWe is an award winning charity which has 21 years in sustainable development.
India's Golden Triangle with Varanasi and Nepal: Delve deeper into the culture of this region by extending your trip to see the unmissable sights of Nepal.
A short walk through the narrow lanes in Old Delhi is a great experience. You get to see the daily activities of the inhabitants, like people sitting on a tea stall and chatting about political affairs or devotees offering prayers in a small temple for the neighbourhood. It's very insightful.Pankaj, India Travel Director
Visas are required for India. Please contact the consulate/embassy for further information.
Trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discount. Discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Trip prices are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however are subject to change - please confirm all details at time of booking.
Double-share option not available for trips to South America, Costa Rica, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, South Africa, Kenya & Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia or for any holiday & cruise combination, or in Asia and Eastern Mediterranean except Highlights of Turkey (without cruise) & Best of Turkey. It's also not available on Small Group trips. Guided Vacations included in this restriction are Newfoundland and Labrador (DNLA) as well as Panama, the Canal & Beyond (LPAN).
For trips that are part of our Guaranteed Room Share, please note that there is a no smoking policy in all shared rooms. Solo travel is not accepted on guided Family Experiences holidays unless traveling as part of a family group.
Travel to Europe often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange your flights to arrive on or before day 1.