Dive into India on this 11-day adventure and discover a wide range of cultural highlights in a relatively short amount of time. From the spiritual centre of Varanasi to the chaotic capital of Delhi, this journey is perfect for travellers who want local guidance and unique included experiences without sacrificing the freedom to explore independently. Witness the beauty of the Taj Mahal, feel enlightened on a boat trip along the River Ganges, and get the royal treatment during a 16th-century heritage stay. Bring an open mind and an open heart and plunge headfirst into this utterly captivating destination.This is a trip made for travellers who value their independence but also want the benefit of a local leader and a group of like-minded travellers. The itinerary has a mix of included activities and free time where your leader will offer suggestions you can take or leave. Please budget spending money for optional activities.The regions visited on this trip can be extreme in temperature. It’s important to prepare for hot temperatures during the day and cooler climates in the evening. Rajasthan, in particular, can be very hot, especially in the summer. Light layers are the best way to tackle changeable weather.Part of travelling with Intrepid means respecting local cultures and sensibilities. That way you get the most out of your interactions with local people and environments. For temple visits on this trip, you will need to wear clothes that cover the arms and pants or skirts that go past the knees.This trip involves some long train rides, including a couple of overnight trains. The train journeys from Delhi to Varanasi and Varanasi to Agra are is approximately 13 hours each. Sleeper trains are clean and air-conditioned and a great way to travel long distances while still getting maximum time in each place. Beds are padded berths with sheets, pillow and blanket provided (although some people prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet). Please note that you may be sharing with locals of other genders. For your own security, take a lock for your hand luggage. Sleeper train journeys in and out of Varanasi can be subject to long delays because of weather conditions, including heavy rain or fog. Read more about what to expect on an overnight train https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/india-trains-guide/