Beyond Golden Triangle: Goa Edition

Namaste and welcome to India. Your journey begins in Delhi—busy, layered and full of contrasts. After settling in, we’ll gather in the evening for a welcome meet-up around 6:00 pm, where you’ll meet Anna, your host for the trip, and the rest of your fellow travellers. This is a relaxed chance to get to know one another, walk through the days ahead, and ease into the rhythm of the journey. Once we’re done, you’re welcome to join the group for an optional dinner at a local restaurant—a casual first taste of the city and a perfect way to kick things off together.

Today we explore Old Delhi, moving through the city the way locals do. We begin on the Delhi Metro, then switch to a cycle rickshaw that takes us into the lively lanes of Chandni Chowk. Along the way, we visit Jama Masjid, Delhi’s oldest mosque, before stopping at Sheeshganj Gurudwara to learn about the Sikh faith and its history. The rest of the evening is free to enjoy. If you’d like suggestions for dinner, Anna will be happy to recommend her favorite local spots.

We leave Delhi behind this morning and make our way to Agra, home to some of India’s most iconic landmarks and Mughal-era masterpieces. After arriving, we settle into the hotel and take some time to rest before heading out for the afternoon. Later, we visit Agra Fort with a local guide, exploring its grand courtyards, royal chambers, and river-facing balconies that once housed generations of Mughal emperors. The fort offers a fascinating glimpse into the ambition, artistry, and power of one of history’s greatest dynasties. The evening is left relaxed, giving you time to unwind and soak in the slower rhythm of Agra before an early start the next day.

We begin early this morning with a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, witnessing the marble monument glow softly in the morning light before the crowds arrive. Widely considered one of the world’s greatest architectural achievements, the Taj is even more magical in the quiet hours of dawn. After returning to the hotel for breakfast, the morning is yours to slow down and recharge. Guests who wish to can enjoy an optional spa session before we head back out into the city. Later, we visit Sheroes’ Hangout, a café run as a social initiative supporting survivors of acid attacks—a meaningful space that blends powerful stories with great food and community spirit. We then continue to one of Agra’s oldest carpet-making workshops, where skilled artisans handweave intricate rugs using techniques passed down through generations. We wrap up the evening with dinner together before calling it an early night ahead of tomorrow’s early departure.

We leave Agra and travel into rural Rajasthan, stopping en route at Fatehpur Sikri, the former Mughal capital. From here, we continue to a village with roots dating back to the 17th century, where life feels slower and deeply rooted in tradition. With Anna and a local guide, we take a gentle walk through the village, passing temples, homes, and everyday scenes, with time to sample seasonal local sweets made from ingredients like petha, jaggery, and gazak. In the evening, we settle into a restored heritage property, ending the day with comforting, home-cooked Indian food full of authentic flavors.

After a relaxed, home-style breakfast, we leave rural Rajasthan behind and arrive in Jaipur, the vibrant ‘Pink City’. Today, Anna, along with a local guide, introduces you to the city through a blend of hidden corners, everyday life, and key landmarks—sharing context and stories that go beyond the guidebook. We pass by the iconic Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) and move through Jaipur’s historic centre, with glimpses of the City Palace and the city’s famous astronomical observatory, which you may choose to explore further during your free time. Later, we take a look at Jaipur’s local art styles, before the rest of the day opens up for you to wander markets, soak in the colours, or simply slow down—with Anna around to help you make the most of it.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you may choose to start the day with an optional hot air balloon ride, drifting gently over Jaipur’s countryside as the city slowly comes to life—a peaceful and unforgettable way to see Rajasthan from above. Later in the afternoon, we head out with our local guide to Amber Fort, perched high above Maota Lake. As we explore its courtyards and ramparts, we get a deeper look into Rajput architecture, with the shimmering Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors) as a clear highlight. In the evening, we come together for a farewell dinner in Jaipur, a relaxed way to celebrate the journey and the memories shared along the way.

We leave Rajasthan behind this morning and take an early flight to Mumbai, India’s financial capital and home to Bollywood, bustling markets, colonial architecture, and one of the world’s most fascinating urban landscapes. After arriving, checking into our hotel, and enjoying lunch, we head out to explore the city with our local guide. Our tour includes the magnificent Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the sweeping curve of Marine Drive, the famous open-air laundry at Dhobi Ghat, and two of Mumbai’s most iconic landmarks—the Gateway of India and the historic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. This evening, we gather for dinner before returning to the hotel.

This morning, we board a ferry across Mumbai Harbour to Elephanta Island, home to the UNESCO-listed Elephanta Caves. Accompanied by our local guide, we explore these remarkable rock-cut temples, known for their intricate carvings and impressive sculptures dedicated to Lord Shiva. The ferry journey itself offers beautiful views of Mumbai’s waterfront and skyline. After returning to the city and enjoying some free time for lunch, we head to Chowpatty Beach in the evening. As locals gather along the shoreline, you’ll experience one of Mumbai’s most vibrant public spaces, with street performers, food stalls, and seaside energy all around. Be sure to try local favourites such as bhel puri before we enjoy dinner together.

Today we fly south to Goa, a tropical coastal state known for its unique blend of Indian and Portuguese heritage, colourful architecture, and relaxed pace of life. After checking into our hotel, we join our local guide for a walk through the city, learning about Goa’s fascinating history and the influences that have shaped its culture over the centuries. Later, we head to a quieter beach to watch the sunset over the Arabian Sea. As the day draws to a close, we come together for a farewell dinner—celebrating the memories, friendships, and experiences shared throughout our journey across India.

Our journey comes to an end this morning. There are no activities planned today, and you are free to depart at any time. If you have a later flight, post check-out luggage storage facilities are available at the hotel so you can continue exploring or enjoy a final relaxed meal before heading to the airport. If you’re not quite ready to leave, we highly recommend extending your stay in Goa. We’re happy to assist with additional hotel bookings or recommendations should you wish to enjoy a few more days by the coast.