From CAD 1,489 Was CAD 1,985
Guarantee
Small Group
Light
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
Journey between the cities, villages and desert of Rajasthan and gain a unique 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 enjoy a traditional Kalbeliya dance performance. In the village of Chandelao Garh, visit a project empowering female artisans and join an inspiring rickshaw tour of Jaipur with a female guide from the Pink City Rickshaw Co. This is India from a new perspective!
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 enjoy an exclusive Kalbeliya dance performed by local women at a desert camp. Enjoy some quality one-on-one time with the dancers 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 most beautiful buildings in the world inspired by the extraordinary love for an exceptional woman.
- See the highlights of Jaipur and get to know your female driver on a tour with the eco-friendly Pink City Rickshaw Company – a non-profit providing employment and economic independence to women from low-income households.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2120
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Auto rickshaw,Bus,Car,Cycle rickshaw,Jeep,Metro,Train,Private vehicle,Shuttle bus
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: HHSL
Starts: Delhi, India
Finishes: Delhi, India
Duration: 13 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (2), Lunch (1), Dinner (4)Accommodation: Hotel (9 nights),Camping with basic facilities (1 night),Heritage Property (1 night),Overnight Sleeper Train (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 1489 (CAD 115 /day)
Itinerary
Namaste! Welcome to Delhi. Your women’s expedition will begin 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. After, get to know your group and enjoy your first taste of India’s famous cuisine over an included dinner at a local restaurant.
Included Activities:
- Delhi - Welcome dinner
Optional Activities:
- Delhi - Humayun's Tomb (600 INR)
- Delhi - Qutub Minar (600 INR)
- Delhi - Red Fort (600 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Navigate the city’s metro system to discover Old Delhi on a walking tour. You may ride the metro in a women’s only carriage today, giving you a unique 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. 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 are invited to showcase their wares for 15 days at a time, ensuring prices are fair and not subject to the inflation of big cities. The market is also home to a tempting array of food stalls, so you may 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. Local vendors will board the train at various stops to sell snacks, but it’s advised that you bring some of your own food for the journey too
Included Activities:
- Delhi - Dilli Haat INA Visit
- Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
- Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque
- Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour
Accommodation:
- Overnight Sleeper Train (Number of Nights: 1)
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 between 1589 and 1594, 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 in the tuk-tuks to visit a local home in the Old Town. Here, some local women will show you how they make papadums and bhajia. Try some of the savoury snacks, chat with the women and enjoy a cup 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. Through the practice of cooking, the women of Bikaner created a self-supporting platform to develop their skills and provide snacks to a local marketplace, self-sustaining their livelihoods.
Included Activities:
- Bikaner - Junagarh Fort
- Bikaner - Women’s Co-operative visit & tea
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, take tuk-tuks to the train station for an early morning journey to Jaisalmer. Make friends with entertaining chaiwalas (tea vendors), food vendors and enjoy conversations with the locals to pass the time. There’s no food cart on the train, but your local leader will recommend the best snacks for you to buy before you board the train, 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.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, jump into 4WDs and head towards the Thar Desert – covering 200,000 square 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, giving you a chance to get to know the women. They’ll put on a Kalbeliya dance performance – a traditional female dance where women in long skirts replicate the movements of a serpent as a representation of the snake charmer’s role in traditional Rajasthani society.
Included Activities:
- Thar Desert - Kalbeliya Dance Performance
- Thar Desert - Jeep Adventure
Accommodation:
- Camping (with facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast at the desert camp, you’ll drive back to Jaisalmer in your 4WDs. From here, you’ll have a chance to check in to 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 1156 AD, 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.
Included Activities:
- Jaisalmer - City Tour
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Head straight to 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 battles past. From here, you’ll go to the Sadar Bazaar in the Old City for a guided market tour and the opportunity to taste local delicacies like lassi and dal baati – both classics of Indian cuisine. You may like to spend the rest of the evening exploring the Old City, and your local leader will be able to recommend great places for dinner.
Included Activities:
- Jodhpur - Meherangarh Fort
- Jodhpur - Sadar Bazaar
- Jodhpur - City Walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Say goodbye to Jodhpur and drive to the village of Chandelao Garh. When you arrive, get your bearings with a walk through the village, then visit Sunder Rang – a project that employs local artisans, mostly women, while keeping traditional craft practices alive. Meaning ‘beautiful colours’, the vibrant pieces crafted by the women at Sunder Rang stand in contrast to the surrounding desert landscapes. More than 30 women are currently employed by Sunder Rang, with an hour of their workdays dedicated to their education. Meet the ladies who work here, browse the beautiful pieces they’ve created and learn about the project’s impact on their lives, their families and the wider village. This evening, take some 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, join your hosts for traditional henna painting.
Included Activities:
- Chandelao Garh - Village Walk
- Chandelao Garh - Sundar Rang Crafts Centre Visit
- Chandelao Garh - Rangoli making
- Chandelao Garh - Henna painting
Accommodation:
- Heritage Property (Number of Nights: 1)
Limber up and start your day with a yoga session at your accommodation, then hop back in your 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. Visit the Raj Mandir Cinema – this Art Deco-style building is one of Jaipur’s most popular spots and has played host to many movie premiers.
Included Activities:
- Jaipur - Leader-led orientation walk
- Jaipur - Bollywood movie at Raj Mandir
- Chandelao Garh - Morning Yoga
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, head into town for a memorable rickshaw ride with The Pink City Rickshaw Company – a not-for-profit organisation that aims to provide a new aspirational employment opportunity to 200 women from low-income households in Jaipur. See the highlights of the city and get to know your amazing 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 is plenty of history to learn about as well as picturesque sights. 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 truly tasty dinner.
Included Activities:
- Jaipur - Amber Fort
- Jaipur - City tour with The Pink City Rickshaw Company
- Jaipur - Home-cooking Class
Optional Activities:
- Jaipur - City Palace (1200 INR)
- Jaipur - Jantar Mantar Observatory (200 INR)
- Jaipur - Balloon Safari (280 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
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 one of the Seven Wonders of the World and the pristine grounds, watching the setting sun illuminate the stunning marble mausoleum built by Shah Jahan in his favourite wife’s honour.
Included Activities:
- Agra - Saree lesson
- Agra - Taj Mahal
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning there is the opportunity for an optional sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal. Otherwise, you can explore Agra Fort before heading to Sheroes Hangout – a vegetarian cafe for lunch. This beautiful cafe is a one of kind social enterprise providing employment opportunities for women who were the victims of acid attacks. In the early evening leave Agra behind and hop on a high speed train bound for Delhi. Check in to your hotel and perhaps head out for a final farewell dinner with your group.
Included Activities:
- Agra - Visit & Lunch at Sheroes Cafe
Optional Activities:
- Agra - Agra Fort Visit - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is your final day in India. There are no included activities planned, so you’re welcome to check out of the hotel any time before midday. If you’re departing later, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel until your flight. If you want to stay an extra couple of days in Delhi, just speak to your booking agent.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Laura - Traveled, March 2024
An all round fantastic trip. No hesitation to recommend this trip. Go for it, you will not regret it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/06/2024
Stella - Traveled, March 2024
I would 100% recommend this trip, felt safe at all times, great itinerary and really got to see the real India.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/05/2024
Felicity - Traveled, March 2024
This trip was life changing! Our guide Harsha went above and beyond to make our group feel comfortable. I learnt so much about India and came away with eight new lifelong friends. Camping in the That desert was the highlight of the trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/06/2024
Moirin - Traveled, March 2024
The Wonen’s Expedition was absolutely wonderful. All, bar two in the group were solo travellers, but we parted as friends, with our lovely leader Harsha too. I hope to travel with Intrepid again in the future.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/06/2024
Maria - Traveled, March 2024
Lovely experience with beautiful women and an incredible guide. Enjoyed every single day of this tour in India. Always felt safe. Everything felt easy and natural, event the train and the camping. This tour is perfect for explorers that want some adventures and fun while travelling India
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/06/2024
Michelle - Traveled, March 2024
Excellent trip, and huge variety in experiencing the real Rajastan. Our guide, Harsh, was fantastic and helped us get the very best of it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/29/2024
Ciara - Traveled, March 2024
This woman’s expedition to India was absolutely INCREDIBLE! I was a bit nervous for this trip but once I met with the other women and group leader (Harshita) I felt so comfortable. This was an experience of a lifetime. I am so grateful for intrepid and their emphasis on responsible tourism. If you are considering this trip…DO IT! It will not disappoint!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/05/2024
Jenna - Traveled, March 2024
A life-changing trip, I came away feeling nourished having met so many amazing women and seen so much of beautiful India
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/01/2024
Christina - Traveled, March 2024
India, the destination of a lifetime, and one I will never forget. Thank you to my father for enabling me to do this.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/21/2024
Carol - Traveled, March 2024
The India Women’s Expidition was a fantastic view of India and the culture. A great blend of history , “touristy”, and cultural experiences. This trip will expand your mind. And it was wonderful sharing it with Luke- minded women. Highly recommended.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/21/2024
Sally - Traveled, March 2024
The women’s India trip was the most fabulous experience, well exceeding my expectations. An excellent choice of destinations and itinerary gave an authentic flavour of village, desert and city life especially with personal touches by visiting local houses and craft centres through the female lens. . Sharing this trip with fellow adventurous females made it very special indeed and the whole group quickly bonded and were always looking out for each other. Friends have been made which I know will continue beyond this trip. Our guide Harsha was simply incredible imparting her knowledge and passion for her culture and tradition along with the utmost care for our wellbeing at all times elevated the trip to magical. If considering this trip don’t hesitate. it was definitely the trip of a lifetime!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/21/2024
Kristin - Traveled, March 2024
The Women’s Expedition with Harsha was a good way to see a variety of places and travel around feeling safe. The train journeys are an adventure, the cities busy, the forts magnificent and the villages are a delight break from the hustle and show a different side of India. Would recommend to go on this trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/21/2024
Kirsten - Traveled, March 2024
If you are considering booking this trip then this is the sign that you should just do it. A fantastic trip in every way with great women including our lovely guide Harsha. 10/10 recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/21/2024
Lucy - Traveled, March 2024
The Women's expedition of India is a wonderful trip. If you are considering it I can recommend it 200%. Your will see amazing sights and learn so much from wonderful tour guides such as Harsha. India truly is a beautiful country and very different. It's exciting and full of surprises. I loved it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/21/2024
Kelly - Traveled, February 2024
What a journey! Not only did I learn so much about Rajasthan, but I learned a lot about myself, too! I highly recommend this tour!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/10/2024
Cynthia - Traveled, February 2024
The women's expedition to India was the most awesome I trip ever experienced! We saw and experienced so much in our 12 days! Awesome forts, museums, shopping and wearing saris to the Taj Mahal were some of the incredible experiences. We also spent time relaxing in rural villages in nice resorts. To top it we had the best guide ever, Anjali!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/07/2024
Sheila - Traveled, February 2024
This holiday was amazing. Anjeli is an inspiration. Dont hesitate if you can cope with the inevitable challenges travel in India poses
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/23/2024
Tamar - Traveled, February 2024
Amazing trip! We had a full group of 12 fabulous women ranging in age from 27 to 78 from all over the world. I loved meeting all of them and we really stayed together as a group most of the time and got along well. Note it is fine to have a rolling suitcase just make sure you can carry it up or down stairs. Also be prepared for a long train ride at the beginning. It's a bit difficult but everything is great after that.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/25/2024
Melissa - Traveled, December 2024
Cannot overstate how much I loved the Women's Expedition in India. Anjali was the best tour guide we could have asked for and the whole experience was unforgettable. Beautiful places, delicious food, fascinating history, what more could you ask for?
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/10/2024
Louise - Traveled, December 2023
Loved experiencing India through this Women's Expedition. Feel like I've learned so much about what makes India tick. Would recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/06/2024
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