Northern India & Rajasthan to Goa by Rail

Hop aboard for a different look at this dynamic country’s northern region before turning south and ending up at the ever-popular coastal town of Goa. Explore temples, shrines, and tombs — including the Taj Mahal — while absorbing the rich culture and vibrant daily life of this exciting country. Experience the India-Pakistan Wagah border ceremony and Dalai Lama sights in Dharamsala. The colours of Rajasthan, bustle of Mumbai, and beaches of Goa will stay with you long after you catch that flight home.

Day 1 Delhi
Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included through the G Adventures-supported Women With Wheels project.

Day 2 Delhi/Amritsar
Take the morning Shatabdi Express to Amritsar and enjoy breakfast on board. In the afternoon, drive to the India-Pakistan border and witness the border ceremony performed by both nations border guards. Later in the evening visit the grounds surrounding the Golden Temple and take an orientation walk of Amritsar.

Day 3 Amritsar/Dharamshala
In the morning visit and explore the Golden Temple and learn about the community service principles of the Sikh Religion. Later, embark on a scenic drive to Dharamshala and take an orientation walk in the evening.

Day 4 Dharamshala
Enjoy free time to explore Dharamsala. Visit the Main Temple and current residence of Dalai Lama or take a tour of the Norbulingka institute dedicated to preserving the Tibetan culture. Feeling more adventurous? Choose to embark on a short hike to Bhagsunag.

Day 5 Dharamshala/Māndi
Explore the town of Mandi. Walk around Rewalsar Lake, a sacred spot for Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists. Renowned for its ancient stone temples with fine carvings, Mandi is also known as the "Varanasi of the Hills".

Day 6 Mandi/Shimla
Embark onto the next destination, Shimla, the capital of Himachal province. This was once the British summer capital during the Raj Era. View the colonial era architecture still prominent throughout this city.

Day 7 Shimla
Enjoy a CEO-led orientation walk on The Ridge and The Mall (local hangouts) and explore this summer capital of British India. Opt to visit the Viceregal Lodge or admire the neo-Gothic or Tudorbethan architecture of the heritage buildings.

Day 8 Shimla/Delhi
Take the World Heritage-listed toy train from Shimla to Kalka. Switch to the Shatabdi Express for the rest of the journey back to Delhi, with dinner included on board.

Day 9 Delhi
Enjoy a free day in Delhi.

Day 10 Delhi/Āgra
Take the Shatabdi Express train to Agra, with breakfast served on board. Enjoy a guided tour of the impressive Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Time permitting, opt to visit the Baby Taj.

Day 11 Āgra/Jaipur
Hop on a Shatabdi Express train in the evening to Jaipur.

Day 12 Jaipur
Take an orientation walk around town. Take a photo of the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) and visit the Amber Fort. Walk around the Old City and markets and opt to visit the City Palace. With free time, wander the Jantar Mantar or check out a Bollywood film at the spectacular Art Deco film house, the Raj Mandir.

Day 13 Jaipur/Udaipur
In the morning board a train and soak in the passing scenery en route to Udaipur. Arrive in the evening with free time to explore the city.

Day 14 Udaipur
Enjoy an orientation walk, including a visit to the Jagdish Temple and the City Palace, one of the largest royal palaces in India. Attend a Rajasthani cultural show on Gangaur Ghat.

Day 15 Udaipur/Būndi
Take a train to Bundi to explore the fort and stepwells.

Day 16 Būndi/Mumbai
Explore Bundi with some free time before an overnight trip on the Mumbai Rajdhani Express train, with dinner on board.

Day 17 Mumbai
Arrive in the morning in bustling Mumbai, home to 20 million people. Take a walking tour of the Colaba area and see the Gateway of India.

Day 18 Mumbai/Goa
Catch a morning flight to beautiful Goa. Spend free time relaxing on the beach or exploring the city's monuments.

Day 19 Goa
Enjoy a free day in Goa.

Day 20 Goa
Depart at any time.