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Explore Northern India and the Taj Mahal

Baranagar. Courtesy of G Adventures LTD.

Northern India is a melting pot of culture close to China, Nepal and Pakistan. This central location means that the land consists of a combination of Buddhist, Hindu and other religious cultures. Rajasthan is the largest state in India; it boasts an area of 342,239 square kilometers with a population of 68,548,437 people. In addition to sheer size, the state is home to nine UNESCO World Heritage sites and 22 former kingdoms called princely states. It’s also worth noting that the state is home to the world’s ninth-largest subtropical desert: Thar, the Great Indian Desert. It covers 60% of the state, as well as parts of Punjab, Gujarat, Haryana, and Pakistan. In addition, travelers may notice that Rajasthan’s significant cities are color coded. Jaipur is known as the pink city, while Jodhpur consists of blue-colored houses. Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest cities, is also known as the epicenter of sciences. It is believed that this place was once the home of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is believed that whoever has their final breath here will attain salvation. It is a significant trading center and hub of literature, religion, music and filmography. Travelers can arrive in Delhi at any time. Sights include the Karol Bagh market, Old Delhi, the Great Mosque and more. In Raisar, people can go on a short tour of the village. They can see 100-year-old looms, the old water system, rural life, and experience a three-hour camel cart ride. In Jaisalmer, the Golden City, everyone can walk through the walled city and enter the ancient fort, onward to Jodhpur, the blue city and the second largest in Rajasthan. In Udaipur, people can bear witness to breathtaking lakes and Raj-era palaces. Onwards to Pushkar, the home of the 14th century Brahma Temple. In Tordi Sagar, everyone can take their time to appreciate local potters, cobblers and markets on a guided walk through the village. Afterward, travel to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Visit the Hawa Mahal and the Palace of the Winds, and take an orientation walk around town. In Agra, travelers can see the iconic Taj Mahal, the so-called "Baby Taj," and Agra Fort. In Varanasi, there are plenty of temples and shrines to visit. Everyone can feel free to take an evening boat journey on the Ganges. Finally travelers will arrive back in Delhi and depart at any time.

This is a G Adventures 18-to-Thirtysomethings trip catering to 18–39-year-old travelers. All G Adventures trips are led by a local guide, a CEO or Chief Experience Officer, and trip revenue is driven to help the local community. Starting at $769 per person, this experience lasts 20 days. Transportation between destinations, some meals, and accommodation will be included.