Key Features
• Journey by rail & encounter Indian life
• Discover Hindu Varanasi, Buddhist Bodh Gaya & Sikh Amritsar
• Marvel at the Taj Mahal & Himalayan views
Included
13nts hotel, 1nt sleeper train - sleeper train berths are in second class 2 or 3 tier air-conditioned open-plan carriages. 14 breakfasts included.
Transport
Train/Bus/Boat/Rickshaw.
Group Size
Approx. 12 to 16.
Tour Staff
Explore Tour Leader, driver(s) and some local guides.
Kolkata to Varanasi
More familiarly known as Calcutta, we visit historical sites, take time to wander in the flower market and enjoy fine views of the Ganges, known locally as the Hooghly River. We join the flow of Buddhist pilgrims travelling to Bodh Gaya, where the Buddha attained enlightenment. Continuing along the pilgrims' trail, our journey takes us to Varanasi where Hindu devotees purify themselves in the sacred waters of the Ganges.
Taj Mahal & Toy Trains
In Agra we spend time at the magnificent Taj Mahal and explore the preserved 'ghost city' of Fatehpur Sikri. From the thriving metropolis of Delhi we journey up into the mighty Himalaya, aboard a relic of the Raj, the narrow gauge 'Toy' train to the hill station of Shimla. Here, at the former British summer capital, we take in the fresh air and magnificent views. There are opportunities for walks or to wander in the warren-like bazaar.
Golden Temple & Wagah
Descending from the mountains we travel to the Punjab and the city of Amritsar, which owes its existence to the renowned Golden Temple - the holiest of Sikh shrines. To spend time in its marbled courtyards and shrines is a unique experience. From here it's just a short distance to the Pakistan border at Wagah where we watch the colourful (and noisy!) changing of the guard.
Comment
Suitable for anyone in reasonable health, you should be able to get on and off the (sometimes steeply stepped) trains unassisted and carry your own luggage along long station platforms and stairs (porters are not always available).