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India: Women’s Expedition

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India: Women’s Expedition

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Description

Journey between the cities, villages and desert of Rajasthan and gain insight into the lives of Indian women. With an all-women group and local female leader, this 13-day expedition will immerse you in the culture and history of the region, as seen through the eyes of the women who live here. Starting in energetic Delhi, travel in the female-only carriage on the metro, then head out to the Thar Desert in jeeps to meet local women and watch a traditional Kalbeliya dance performance. In the village of Chandelao Garh, visit a community project supporting female artisans, then join a rickshaw tour of Jaipur with a female guide from the Pink City Rickshaw Company. This is India from a new perspective!

Trip Name
India: Women's Expedition
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
13
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Get to know northern India through the lives of the women who live there as you explore with a female leader, ride in women-only carriages on the metro and meet inspiring local women throughout your journey.
  • Head to the rural desert village of Chandelao Garh, where a local project provides female artisans with employment and education while preserving traditional craft practices. Check out their handicrafts and hear their stories.
  • Take jeeps into the Thar Desert and watch an exclusive Kalbeliya dance performed by local women at a desert camp. Learn about the women’s daily life and maybe even learn a few dance steps while the men prepare dinner.
  • Visit a local woman's home and select a saree and accessories to wear on your visit to the Taj Mahal – one of the Seven Wonders of the World, inspired by the extraordinary love for an exceptional woman.
  • See the highlights of Jaipur and get to know your female driver on an e-rickshaw tour with the Pink City Rickshaw Company – a non-profit providing employment and economic independence to women from low-income households.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Day 1 - Delhi
Namaste! Welcome to Delhi – India’s bustling capital city. Your women’s expedition begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm at your hotel. Meet your local leader and fellow female travellers and find out what to expect over the course of your adventure. If you arrive early, maybe kick-start your adventure with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Humayun's Tomb. After the meeting tonight, get to know your group and have your first taste of India’s famous cuisine over an included dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2 - Delhi
Navigate the city’s metro system to discover Old Delhi on a walking tour. You may ride the metro in a female-only carriage today, giving you an insight into how local women travel around Delhi. Hitch a traditional cycle rickshaw ride through a typical Indian traffic jam in the streets around Chandni Chowk marketplace. Visit Delhi’s oldest and largest mosque – Jama Masjid, then duck into a Sikh temple for a quiet escape from the city and observe the spiritual side of this bustling metropolis. Visit the Dilli Haat market, where artisans from across the country showcase their wares and there’s a tempting array of food stalls – you might like to take your tastebuds on a trip with some momos from Sikkim, spicy chicken from Nagaland or kebabs from Jammu. Later tonight, you’ll leave Delhi on an overnight sleeper train to Bikaner.
Day 3 - Bikaner
Your overnight train will arrive in Bikaner just after 7 am this morning. Your group will be picked up by tuk-tuks and transferred to the hotel, where you can freshen up and grab some breakfast. Later, you’ll visit Junagarh Fort – built in the late 16th century, this red sandstone and marble fort is one of the most impressive forts in Rajasthan. You’ll explore the various palaces, courtyards and museums within the fort complex, then hop back in a tuk-tuk to visit a local home in the Old Town. Here, some local women will show you how they make poppadoms and bhajia. Try some of these savoury snacks and chat with the women while you sip on cups of chai together. This initiative, started by the RGAVP’s government program, nurtures the economic capability of women living below the poverty line in rural and urban areas. The women of Bikaner have created a platform through which they can support their livelihoods through their cooking.
Day 4 - Jaisalmer
This morning, take a tuk-tuk to the train station for an early morning journey to Jaisalmer. There’s no food cart on the train, but your local leader will recommend the best snacks for you to buy before you board, so you won’t be left hungry. When you arrive, rest and recharge at your hotel during a free afternoon and evening or head out and explore at your own pace – your local leader will know all the best spots to grab some delicious local cuisine.
Day 5 - Thar Desert
After breakfast, jump into a 4WD and head towards the Thar Desert – covering 200,000 sq km, you’ll spend all day exploring the rolling sand hills before arriving at your desert camp. Here, you’ll meet some local men and women – the men will head off to prepare a traditional Rajasthani dinner while you watch the women perform Kalbeliya. This traditional dance is performed in long skirts to replicate the movements of a serpent as a representation of the snake charmer’s role in traditional Rajasthani society. Hear about what daily life is like for the local women and maybe even learn a few dance steps before tucking into an authentic local dinner.
Day 6 - Jodphur
After breakfast at the desert camp, travel back to Jaisalmer in a 4WD. When you arrive, check into your hotel and freshen up before heading out on a walking tour with your leader to get to know this storied desert city. The citadel was built by Rawal Jaisal of the Bhati Rajput in AD1156, and with a history that’s been carefully recorded by the bards of Rajasthan since the 12th century, it’s not hard to imagine what life here once looked like. Strung between the former trade routes of the Great Thar Desert, your leader will share stories of Jaisalmer’s prosperous past. Return to your hotel and transfer to the train station to board the train to Jodhpur, arriving in the evening.
Day 7 - Jodhpur
Visit the striking Mehrangarh Fort that towers over the city. You’ll take a guided tour here to explore some of the ornately decorated palaces and visit one of Rajasthan’s most interesting museums to learn about historic battles. From here, you’ll continue to the Sadar Bazaar in the Old City for a guided market tour, where you’ll taste local delicacies like lassi and dal baati – both classics of Indian cuisine. You might like to spend the rest of the evening exploring the Old City – your local leader will be able to recommend some great places for dinner.
Day 8 - Chandelao Garh
Start your day with a yoga session before saying goodbye to Jodhpur and driving to the village of Chandelao Garh. When you arrive, get your bearings with a walk through the village, then visit Sunder Rang – a local project that employs local artisans, mostly women, while keeping traditional craft practices alive. Sunder Rang means ‘beautiful colours’ – the vibrant pieces crafted by the women here stand in contrast to the surrounding desert landscapes. More than 30 women artisans are currently employed here, with an hour of their workdays dedicated to their education. Meet the artisans, browse their beautiful handicrafts and learn about the project’s impact on their lives, their families and the wider village. This evening, you’ll have free time to explore Chandelao Garh further or relax at your heritage property accommodation. This evening, learn about the art of rangoli, where colourful patterns are made with various materials, and join your hosts for traditional henna painting.
Day 9 - Jaipur
Hop in a private vehicle and make the journey to Jaipur – the capital of the Rajasthan region. When you arrive, stretch your legs with an orientation walk around the city. Follow your leader down streets buzzing with camel carts, rickshaws, trucks and bicycles and explore bazaars bursting with colourful goods, including handcrafted textiles, folk art and the local speciality of semi-precious stones. After your walk, discover a beloved part of Indian culture as you head out for a screening of a Bollywood film at the Raj Mandir Cinema – this Art Deco-style building is one of Jaipur’s most popular spots and has played host to many movie premieres.
Day 10 - Jaipur
This morning, head into town for a memorable rickshaw ride with The Pink City Rickshaw Company – a not-for-profit organisation that provides employment opportunities to 200 women from low-income households in Jaipur. See the highlights of the city and get to know your female driver as you zip through the streets. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Amber Fort – one of Jaipur’s most recognisable landmarks. The red sandstone and marble palace is set high on a hill overlooking Maota Lake, and there’s plenty of history to learn about as well as picturesque sights to take in. This evening, visit a local home in Jaipur, where you’ll be welcomed for an evening of fun and feasting. Chat with your hosts about their lives, learn about the meals they make at home, then sit down for a tasty dinner.
Day 11 - Agra
Today you’ll make the trip to Agra by train. Your first stop will be a visit to the home of a local woman who will help you choose the perfect saree and show you how it's worn. She’ll also help you dress up with an armful of glittering bangles and a matching Bindi in the traditional style, ready for your sunset visit to India’s most iconic landmark – the Taj Mahal. Spend time wandering around the pristine grounds of one of the Seven Wonders of the World, watching the setting sun illuminate the stunning marble mausoleum built by Shah Jahan in honour of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
Day 12 - Delhi
This morning, you’ll have the option to go on a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal. Otherwise, you can explore Agra Fort before heading to Sheroes Hangout – a vegetarian cafe – for lunch. This colourful cafe is a social enterprise providing employment opportunities for women who are the survivors of acid attacks. In the early evening, leave Agra behind and hop on a high-speed train bound for Delhi. Check into your hotel and maybe head out for a final farewell dinner with your group.
Day 13 - Delhi
With no further activities planned, your expedition comes to an end today. If you’re departing later in the day, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel until your flight. If you’d like to extend your stay in Delhi, and it’s highly recommended you do, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
04-10-202616-10-2026AUD $ 2,120-
11-10-202623-10-2026AUD $ 2,296-
18-10-202630-10-2026AUD $ 1,996-
22-10-202603-11-2026AUD $ 2,296-
25-10-202606-11-2026AUD $ 1,996-
01-11-202613-11-2026AUD $ 1,916-
08-11-202620-11-2026AUD $ 1,936-
15-11-202627-11-2026AUD $ 1,916-
19-11-202601-12-2026AUD $ 1,916-
06-12-202618-12-2026AUD $ 1,880-
21-12-202602-01-2027AUD $ 1,996-
28-12-202609-01-2027AUD $ 1,996-
03-01-202715-01-2027AUD $ 2,004-
17-01-202729-01-2027AUD $ 1,928-
31-01-202712-02-2027AUD $ 1,928-
07-02-202719-02-2027AUD $ 1,928-
14-02-202726-02-2027AUD $ 1,928-
20-02-202704-03-2027AUD $ 2,004-
28-02-202712-03-2027AUD $ 1,836-
07-03-202719-03-2027AUD $ 2,084-
14-03-202726-03-2027AUD $ 1,836-
21-03-202702-04-2027AUD $ 2,004-
25-03-202706-04-2027AUD $ 1,836-
28-03-202709-04-2027AUD $ 1,928-
04-04-202716-04-2027AUD $ 2,048-
11-04-202723-04-2027AUD $ 2,048-
03-10-202715-10-2027AUD $ 2,505-
10-10-202722-10-2027AUD $ 2,605-
17-10-202729-10-2027AUD $ 2,605-
21-10-202702-11-2027AUD $ 2,605-
24-10-202705-11-2027AUD $ 2,605-
31-10-202712-11-2027AUD $ 2,605-
07-11-202719-11-2027AUD $ 2,505-
14-11-202726-11-2027AUD $ 2,505-
18-11-202730-11-2027AUD $ 2,505-
21-11-202703-12-2027AUD $ 2,505-
28-11-202710-12-2027AUD $ 2,410-
05-12-202717-12-2027AUD $ 2,410-
20-12-202701-01-2028AUD $ 2,605-
27-12-202708-01-2028AUD $ 2,605-
02-01-202814-01-2028AUD $ 2,605-
16-01-202828-01-2028AUD $ 2,605-
30-01-202811-02-2028AUD $ 2,605-
06-02-202818-02-2028AUD $ 2,605-
13-02-202825-02-2028AUD $ 2,605-
19-02-202802-03-2028AUD $ 2,605-
27-02-202810-03-2028AUD $ 2,605-
05-03-202817-03-2028AUD $ 2,605-
12-03-202824-03-2028AUD $ 2,605-
19-03-202831-03-2028AUD $ 2,605-
23-03-202804-04-2028AUD $ 2,605-
26-03-202807-04-2028AUD $ 2,605-
02-04-202814-04-2028AUD $ 2,605-
09-04-202821-04-2028AUD $ 2,605-
01-10-202813-10-2028AUD $ 2,605-
08-10-202820-10-2028AUD $ 2,605-
15-10-202827-10-2028AUD $ 2,605-
19-10-202831-10-2028AUD $ 2,605-
22-10-202803-11-2028AUD $ 2,605-
29-10-202810-11-2028AUD $ 2,605-
05-11-202817-11-2028AUD $ 2,605-
12-11-202824-11-2028AUD $ 2,605-
16-11-202828-11-2028AUD $ 2,605-
19-11-202801-12-2028AUD $ 2,605-
26-11-202808-12-2028AUD $ 2,605-
03-12-202815-12-2028AUD $ 2,605-
18-12-202830-12-2028AUD $ 2,605-
25-12-202806-01-2029AUD $ 2,605-

Accommodation

Hotel (9 nights), Camping with basic facilities (1 night), Heritage Property (1 night), Overnight Sleeper Train (1 night)

Transport

Auto rickshaw, Bus, Car, Cycle rickshaw, Jeep, Metro, Train, Private vehicle, Shuttle bus

Map

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