Our India by Rail tour will see you exploring the most iconic sites, delving into deep-rooted culture and dining on delicious cuisine and thoroughly researched to bring you a range of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, many of which are entirely exclusive to us.
Explore Amber Fort in Jaipur
Take a cruise on India’s holiest river, the Ganges
Admire the Taj Mahal at sunrise
Marvel at the Golden Temple in Amritsar
Experience the electric atmosphere created by the flickering candles and tinkling bells of a puja held on the banks of the River Ganges, a ceremony dedicated to the river goddess.
Travel to the border of India and Pakistan to witness the border closing ceremony, a display of fantastically over the top showmanship that involves speed marching, high kicks and stomps, all cheered on by the crowd of locals and tourists alike.
Visit a craft centre in Jaipur to witness the professionals block printing by hand and carpet weaving - then give it a go for yourself!
Upon your arrival at Delhi International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel where you have the rest of the day at leisure.
Begin your day with a drive alongside the magnificent Red Fort, taking in the awe-inspiring beauty of its red sandstone structure. Next, embark on a delightful rickshaw ride through the lively streets of Old Delhi, before proceeding to the renowned Jama Masjid. After lunch, fly to Amritsar, eagerly anticipating the adventure that lies ahead.
Today starts with a morning visit to the historically significant Jallianwala Bagh, a poignant public garden in Amritsar. Continue your exploration by visiting the remarkable Durgiana Temple. In the afternoon, enjoy a Village Experience offering an authentic taste of Rural Punjab. Step into the heart of rural Punjab with an immersive village experience near Amritsar, designed to offer a genuine glimpse into local life, traditions, and warm Punjabi hospitality.
Catch your morning train and enjoy the picturesque journey as you head towards Chandigarh. Continue by road to the hill station of Shimla, where you will take a walking tour to Mall Road, in the bustling heart of Shimla. Explore The Ridge, a spacious open space offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills, and marvel at the architectural beauty of Christ Church, a landmark of Shimla's colonial heritage.
Today begins with an enchanting toy train experience from Shimla to Shoghi. Return to Shimla by car to enjoy a city tour visiting the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies. Explore the grandeur of this architectural gem and learn about its historical significance. Continue your exploration by visiting the Himachal State Museum. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and vibrant artistry of the region as you discover the museum's fascinating exhibits.
After your memorable time in Shimla, it's time to transfer to Chandigarh station for your onward journey. Bid farewell to the charming hill station as you board your train bound for Delhi. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the changing landscapes. The afternoon is at leisure for you to explore.
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast onboard the Shatabdi Express as you journey to the vibrant city of Jaipur. Upon arrival, spend the afternoon exploring two of the city’s most iconic attractions. Step into the regal world of the Maharaja’s City Palace, a magnificent complex that continues to serve as the residence of Jaipur’s royal family. Then, marvel at the Jantar Mantar Observatory, an extraordinary 18th-century collection of astronomical instruments that showcases the scientific brilliance of a bygone era.
Explore Jaipur's iconic attractions, including a photo stop at Hawa Mahal. Visit the magnificent Amber Fort and immerse yourself in its regal ambiance. Discover the Maharaja's City Palace while delving into the city's royal heritage before experiencing the scientific wonders of the Jantar Mantar Observatory. Witness traditional crafts like block printing and carpet weaving at a local craft centre and end the day with a delicious dinner and captivating cultural performance.
After breakfast, set off on a scenic drive to Agra, pausing along the way to explore the captivating city of Fatehpur Sikri—an ancient Mughal capital frozen in time. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fatehpur Sikri impresses with its grand architecture, including the towering Buland Darwaza, the elegant Jama Masjid, and a series of beautifully preserved palaces and courtyards that echo the grandeur of a bygone era. After soaking in the history and beauty of this remarkable site, continue your journey to Agra.
Begin your day with a visit to the legendary Taj Mahal, a timeless symbol of love and one of the world’s most iconic monuments, crafted entirely from gleaming white marble. Afterwards head to a marble inlay workshop, before delving into the grandeur of the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As night falls, immerse yourself in a vibrant live musical drama, “Mohabbat the Taj”—a spectacular Bollywood-style performance that brings to life the romantic tale of Emperor Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal in a dazzling fusion of dance, drama, and emotion.
Board a morning train from Agra to the sacred city of Varanasi. Upon arrival, prepare for an enchanting evening rickshaw ride to the banks of the Ganges River. As dusk sets in, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a traditional prayer ceremony dedicated to the river, capturing the rhythmic chants, flickering oil lamps, and the divine atmosphere that surrounds you.
Enjoy a serene cruise along the Ganges river, soaking in the spiritual atmosphere. Explore landmarks like Bharat Mata Mandir and Durga Temple. Visit Banaras Hindu University and the revered Vishwanath Temple. Venture to Sarnath to explore ancient Buddhist sites, including the Dhamek Stupa and Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and become immersed in the rich spirituality and cultural heritage of Varanasi and Sarnath.
Enjoy a free morning to relax or explore at your leisure. In the afternoon, fly from Varanasi to Delhi, returning to this bustling capital city. Enjoy a farewell dinner celebrating a remarkable journey.
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
2026 Detailed Tour Itinerary 2027 & 2028 Detailed Tour Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Delhi International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel where you have the rest of the day at leisure.
Today you will explore the vibrant streets of Old Delhi, pass by the Red Fort before visiting the historic Jama Masjid, one of the country’s most revered mosques. Discover the sights and sounds of Chandni Chowk on a traditional cycle rickshaw ride, then drive through the grand boulevards of New Delhi before flying to Varanasi, one of Hinduism’s holiest cities.
Begin the day with a sunrise boat cruise on the sacred Ganges, watching pilgrims gather along the ghats as the city comes to life. Continue with a visit to Bharat Mata Temple before travelling to nearby Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. This evening, witness the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony.
Board the train and travel to Lucknow, the refined capital of Uttar Pradesh. On arrival, explore The Residency, whose atmospheric ruins tell the story of the 1857 Indian Rebellion.
Discover Lucknow’s architectural treasures, beginning at the grand Bara Imambara before visiting the ornate Chota Imambara. Later, continue by train to Agra, home of India’s most famous monument.
Explore the mighty Agra Fort, once the principal residence of the Mughal emperors. Enjoy some free time before visiting the magnificent Taj Mahal, the ivory-white marble mausoleum, housing the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal.
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Agra before boarding the train to Jaipur, the colourful capital of Rajasthan. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and settle into the Pink City.
Visit the magnificent Amber Fort, exploring its ornate palaces, peaceful courtyards and glittering Hall of Mirrors. Return to the city with an en route stop at a pottery workshop and gem cutting demonstration. Continue to the City Palace and the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar Observatory before ending the day with dinner hosted by a local family
Today you will fly to Chandigarh and continue by road into the Himalayan foothills. Arrive in Shimla, the former summer capital of British India, renowned for its colonial architecture and mountain scenery.
Board the famous toy train for a scenic journey through pine-clad hills and mountain landscapes. On your return drive to Shimla, you will visit Sankat Mochan Temple. Later, discover the city’s colonial heritage at the Voice Regal Lodge and Gaiety Theatre, stroll along the bustling Mall Road and enjoy free time to browse local markets.
Journey to Amritsar, the spiritual heart of Sikhism. This evening, join the moving Palki Ceremony at the Golden Temple, where the Sikh holy book is carried in a candlelit procession.
Visit the shimmering Golden Temple and the poignant Jallianwala Bagh memorial. Discover the city’s rich culinary traditions on a guided food walk, sampling local specialities while learning about their origins. Later, visit the fascinating Partition Museum, which tells the human stories behind the division of India in 1947.
This morning you will be returning to Delhi by train. Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps relaxing at your hotel or enjoying some final exploration of the capital.
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
2026 Detailed Tour Itinerary 2027 & 2028 Detailed Tour Itinerary
All of our tour departures include international flights and taxes in the price unless a land only option is selected
We have a selection of dedicated departures for solo travellers. These departures feature a maximum group size of 18 and exclusive benefits including a single room throughout your tour, complimentary return airport transfers (within 50km radius of major Australian airports) and a cocktail on arrival at your destination. Travellers from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne also receive a complimentary Australian airport lounge pass for use prior to departure.
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All of our tours offer a single room supplement, which means you’ll have a room to yourself throughout your chosen tour. Continue the check-out process for the applicable supplement.
On most tours, you can choose our 'Happy to Share' option, which may enable you to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share. If a share partner is found, the Single Supplement will be removed from your booking. If a share partner is not found, the Single Supplement will remain and is payable with your final balance.
If you are booking on a Dedicated Solo departure, a single room is already included in the price and there are no additional single supplements to pay.
With our flight inclusive option, we'll do the planning for you and meet you on arrival.
We include airport pickup upon arrival at your destination and drop off at the end of your tour (on the scheduled tour arrival and departure days) and when booking pre or post tour accommodation with us.
We partner with established and reputable airlines for your international flights.
We can assist with upgrading your seat to premium or business class for an additional cost.
Our team will work with you to choose your ideal routing and if we make changes to your tour itinerary that impact flights, we’ll rebook them for you.
Our On-Tour Support Team is available to provide advice about how to handle flight changes.
