Current as of: March 27, 2025 - 01:49

Cycling Through Rajasthan

Cycling Through Rajasthan Trip Notes

  • Ways to Travel: Guided Group
  • Destination: India
  • Programmes: Cycling
  • Activity Level:

    3 out of 7 - Moderate

  • 15 Days: Land Only
  • Ages: 16+
  • Trip Code: MIJ
  • Carbon Footprint: 26kg CO2e

Trip Overview

Hop on the saddle to discover majestic monuments and picturesque palaces in India’s Land of Kings

Cycle through Rajasthan, so rich in magnificent forts and palaces that it’s nicknamed the Land of Kings. Led by our expert tour leader, we explore the largest state in India by bike, enjoying a group adventure that balances time on the saddle with immersive cultural stops. Along the way, we visit Mehrangarh Fort at Jodhpur, the lakeside palace of Udaipur, the holy town of Pushkar and the superb pink city of Jaipur. We finish at the Taj Mahal, watching the sun set over a New Wonder of the World.

Departures starting in Delhi on 26 October 2025 and 14 November 2026 are special departures that include the Pushkar Fair – there is an alternative itinerary on days 7-8 and 10-11 for these departures.

At a Glance

  • Accommodation: 13 Classic nights (hotels), 1 Simple night (sleeper train)
  • 12 days of cycling (including optional rides) with full vehicle support
  • Group normally 5 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
  • Pushkar, Holi and Diwali festival departures available (see Dates & Prices tab)

Highlights

  • Cycle the rural backroads of Rajasthan, welcomed by villagers as we go
  • Marvel at the Taj Mahal as the sun sets, a beautiful time to visit
  • Explore the magnificent Amber Fort in the Pink City of Jaipur
  • Pedal through the bird-watching paradise of Bharatpur National Park
  • Game drive through Sariska National Park, searching for leopards and more

Is This Trip for You?

This trip is classified Road and Activity Level 3 (Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings please visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.

  • Cycling days: 12 including optional rides
  • Average distance: 29mi (47km) per day with full vehicle support
  • Terrain and route: Mostly cycling along backroads with some traffic in parts. All roads are surfaced. Our route is a mixture of rolling hills and flat plains. There are two steeper optional climbs: to Mehrangarh Fort on Day 3 and Kumbhalgarh Fort on Day 6. The support vehicle is there for anyone who decides to stop riding.
  • This part of India can be very hot.
  • Although this trip is moderately demanding there is plenty of time to explore.

Monuments: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for the conservation of many monuments in India, including the Taj Mahal, and very occasionally this may mean work is taking place at sites visited on this trip. The ASI schedule is never published so it is not possible to forewarn when work will be taking place.

Some departures coincide with Holi and Diwali, both fascinating times to visit India. We will seek opportunities to see the festivities, though we cannot guarantee what will be happening locally during our trip – the festivals are celebrated in different ways throughout the country.

Holi typically involves people throwing coloured powders and water at each other and smearing powder on each other’s faces. This tends to be done in local communities and families, so it is not always possible to be involved (though you may see the colourful results of this boisterous festival on the streets). During Holi, local monuments and markets close, so departures over Holi have a slight adjustment to the itinerary. In Jaipur, sightseeing is limited, so where necessary we include a cultural day to see local musicians and dancers perform; there may also be an opportunity to join in: playing with colours, dancing, and enjoying food and drinks. Your leader will happily arrange some Holi activities (supplement fees may apply) and you can also purchase the traditional white kurta outfit to look the part and avoid getting your clothes covered in the coloured powders.

Diwali: Some departures coincide with Diwali, the festival of lights to mark the start of the Hindu new year, in which people may illuminate their houses and shops and sometimes celebrate on the streets with fireworks. Lasting up to five days, celebrations can be local (within communities and families) and are not necessarily marked to the same extent throughout the country. We seek opportunities to see the festivities; however, we cannot guarantee what is happening in the area visited. There can be occasional road closures, particularly coming into Jaipur, which may impact your cycle route. You leader will advise you of any changes to the route as soon as possible.

Pushkar Fair: Each year, we operate a departure of this trip that coincides with the Pushkar Fair; please see days 7 and 10 of the itinerary.

Group

Our Indian team of leaders has proved very popular with their incredible knowledge, passion and hospitality adding greatly to the experience. There is no better way to experience Indian culture than letting an Indian leader show you around their country.

Adult min age: 16

Min group size: 5

Max group size: 16

Itinerary

Cycling Through Rajasthan

Land Only

  • Start City: Delhi
  • End City: Delhi

Land Only Itinerary

Day 1
Start Delhi. Afternoon bicycle checks

The adventure starts at our hotel in Delhi.

The group flight will arrive this morning and transfer to our hotel. Those who have made your own flight arrangements, Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport. Please ensure you have provided your flight details to our customer operations team no later than 2 weeks prior to arrival.

This afternoon (from approximately 2pm), we will be introduced to our bicycles, making any necessary adjustments and safety checks before heading out to explore the local area. A great chance to make sure everything is comfortable and in working order before the main cycling days begin.

In the evening your leader will give a briefing about your cycling adventure and any safety points to note.

Accommodation: Ashok Country Resort (or similar)

Day 2
Morning cycle tour of New Delhi; afternoon sightseeing tour of Old Delhi; overnight train to Jodhpur

We start cycling early in the morning to get used to the Indian weather and city traffic. After about 15.5mi (25km), we return to the hotel. Post breakfast and a shower, we start our sightseeing of New and Old Delhi by bus. The bikes and main luggage are transferred to Jodhpur by bus (take your required toiletries and other essential items in your day bag for the overnight train journey). In the evening, we transfer to the station and catch the overnight train to Jodhpur.

Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train

Distance covered: 16mi (25km)

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3
Arrive Jodhpur; free morning then afternoon city cycle tour including Mehrangarh Fort
Cycling Through Rajasthan

We arrive at Jodhpur train station in the morning and take a short transfer to our hotel, where we have time to relax or explore the area. In the afternoon, we get the bikes out and go sightseeing on two wheels. Jodhpur was founded by the Rajput chief Roa Jodha and was formerly the capital of the Marwar state. The city is surrounded by an immense wall, almost 6mi (10km) in circumference, and is dominated by a massive fort that stands on a rocky hill commanding the surrounding desert. In the afternoon, we visit the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, where we have a great view of the blue houses, painted to distinguish them as those of Brahmins.

Accommodation: Shree Ram International Hotel (or similar)

Maximum elevation: 400ft (122m)

Distance covered: 14mi (23km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 4
Ride/drive to Udaipur via Jain temple at Ranakpur; cycle towards lakeside town of Udaipur

Today is a long day so we start early, cycling from the hotel for about 25mi (40km). We then take a bus transfer (approximately 3hr 30min) to Ranakpur where there is time to visit the 15th-century Jain temple. The main temple, beautifully carved from marble, is dedicated to Adinath. It has 29 halls supported by 1,444 pillars, each delicately carved with a different design. We then take a 9mi (15km) transfer (approximately 30 minutes) to a roadside Hindu temple. From here, we get back on our bikes and ride through the Aravalli Hills for about 21mi (34km) and finally transfer (approximately 1hr 30min to two hours) by bus to the lakeside town of Udaipur.

Accommodation: Paras Mahal Hotel (or similar)

Minimum elevation: 597ft (182m) / Maximum elevation: 2,992ft (912m)

Distance covered: 46mi (74km)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5
Cycle tour around Udaipur including City Palace
Cycling Through Rajasthan

Known as the Pearl of Rajasthan, the City of Sunrise and Venice of the East, Udaipur is a beautiful place regarded by both Indians and visitors as the most romantic city in the country. Situated on the east side of Lake Pichola, the main palace commands an unsurpassed view across the shimmering lake to the dusty Aravalli Hills with the luxurious Lake Palace Hotel adding to the scene. Lake Pichola has two islands, each with a palace to rival that on the mainland; Jag Mandir and Jag Nivas (the latter is now the luxurious Lake Palace Hotel) rise out of their own reflections in the lake waters. After breakfast, spend the morning exploring the countryside around Udaipur by bike. Cycle on flat rural backroads past farmland and small villages and continue through Fateh Sagar Lake and Badi Lake. We finish close to the city, where we visit the impressive City Palace.

Accommodation: Paras Mahal Hotel (or similar)

Distance covered: 16mi (25km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 6
Ride on backroads to the fort of Kumbhalgarh

This morning, we drive (approximately 1hr 30min) to Iswal, where we start our bike ride to Kumbhalgarh. The route stays away from the main road and follows a less direct but quieter series of backroads, allowing us to see the fascinating rural life of India. It can be hot cycling here, but the vehicle support is available if required. We arrive in Kumbhalgarh for a late lunch and a rest. Then there is a chance to cycle to Kumbhalgarh Fort, a challenging 3mi (5km) uphill ride (there is an option to take a 4×4). Kumbhalgarh has one of the finest examples of defensive fortifications in Rajasthan, including a lovely temple and palace with panoramic views.

Accommodation: Kumbhalgarh Forest Retreat (or similar)

Minimum elevation: 2,119ft (646m) / Maximum elevation: 3,2182ft (981m)

Distance covered: 40mi (65km)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7
Ride/drive to Pushkar

It’s back to the desert scenery today as we head to the holy town of Pushkar. Our route follows rural backroads to the main highway, where we dismount and travel the rest of the way in our vehicle (approximately five hours). Surrounded by desert, Pushkar is a Hindu pilgrimage town on a holy lake. Legend says the lake was created from petals that fell from the divine hands of the creator god Brahma and it is here you can see one of the few Brahma temples in the world. Dotted with 52 ghats (flights of steps) and around 400 milky-blue temples, this town is also known for hosting the annual Pushkar Fair, transforming the town into a bustling market. Explore the sites and sounds of a town like no other in Rajasthan before heading to our hotel

Accommodation: Hotel Dera Masuda (or similar)

Pushkar Fair departures: 26 October 2025

The itinerary for these departures is slightly amended to spend two nights in Pushkar (days 7 and 8) and one night in Sariska National Park (Day 11), this is done to maximise time at the festival. Accommodation in Pushkar are Swiss cottage tents (canvas tents designed to emulate Swiss cottages) with attached bathrooms. The facilities are basic and hot water and electricity can be limited but your leader will assist with any issues if they occur. All meals are included.

Minimum elevation: 2,214ft (675m) / Maximum elevation: 2,933ft (894m)

Distance covered: 22mi (35km)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8
Ride/drive to Jaipur, capital of Rajasthan, via rural villages and Rupnagar

We leave Pushkar on our bikes, travelling through desert backroads and small villages to the town of Rupnagar, a hub for working marble. There is the option to extend the ride by another 21mi (34km) to the Naraina railway crossing, where we transfer (approximately 1hr 30min to two hours) to Jaipur.

Accommodation: Vesta Maurya Palace Hotel (or similar)

Minimum elevation: 1,135ft (346m) / Maximum elevation: 1,4992ft (457m)

Cycle: Approximately 37mi (60km) or 58.4mi (94km) including optional ride

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 9
Optional early morning city heritage ride, Jaipur sightseeing
Cycling Through Rajasthan

If you’re up early, we have an optional ride around this wonderful pink city, cycling through fascinating narrow laneways. Passing havelis (private mansions) and sacred temples, we head for the majestic Albert Hall, built to welcome the Prince of Wales on his visit during the 1870s. Stop at popular food stalls along the way where we can sample what the local people enjoy for breakfast. After the ride, we have time at the hotel to refresh before a wonderful sightseeing day.

Visit the Amber Fort and enjoy the fine museum within the City Palace, former residence of the Maharaja. A trip to Jaipur must include a photo stop at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds). This city is also the centre of many handicrafts, including woven rugs, carpets, printed cloth, semi-precious stones and leatherware. During our stay, we have time to visit the markets and possibly pick up a souvenir.

Optional cycle: Approximately 7mi (12km)

Accommodation: Vesta Maurya Palace Hotel (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 10
Ride/drive to Sariska National Park via Pratap Garh
Cycling Through Rajasthan

Leave Jaipur with a combination of cycling and a transfer and return to rural India. Transfer (approximately 45 minutes to one hour) to Jamwa Ramgarh and then cycle to Sariska via Pratap Garh and through the beautiful Aravalli foothills.

Accommodation: Sariska Safari Lodge (or similar)

Pushkar Fair departures: 26 October 2025

The itinerary for these departures is slightly amended to spend two nights in Pushkar (days 7 and 8) and one night in Sariska National Park (Day 11), removing the optional afternoon cycle ride.

On Day 11, after arriving in Sariska, we head off in open 4x4s for our early evening game drive. Sariska is a beautiful and interesting park to explore with an abundance of wildlife, including leopards, deer, wild boars, antelopes, jackals, hyenas and more.

The following morning will continue to Bharatpur National Park.

Minimum elevation: 1,115ft (340m) / Maximum elevation: 1,519ft (463m)

Distance covered: 37mi (60km)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11
Game drive; optional afternoon ride

Before breakfast, we hop in open 4x4s for an early morning game drive. Sariska is a beautiful and interesting park to explore with an abundance of wildlife, including leopards, deer, wild boars, antelopes, jackals, hyenas and more. A large variety of bird species also grace the landscape. Return to the hotel for a late breakfast and, in the afternoon, there you may join an optional 8.5mi (14km) cycle to rural villages with a chance to see the daily routine of Rajasthani village life.

Accommodation: Sariska Safari Lodge (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 12
Ride/drive to Bharatpur National Park, renowned for its bird sanctuary, later visited by bike

Ride from our hotel to Muhwa after breakfast, where we take a transfer (approximately one hour to 1hr 30min) to our lunch spot. Another transfer (about one to two hours) takes us to Bharatpur National Park, renowned for its World Heritage-listed bird sanctuary, the Keoladeo Ghana National Park. This entire region was originally semi-arid and only received rainfall during the monsoon season. The Maharaja of Bharatpur diverted water from a nearby irrigation canal and it was converted into a bird sanctuary in 1956. On arrival in Bharatpur, we visit the bird sanctuary on our bikes, home to an array of egrets, ducks, coots, storks, kingfishers, owls, eagles and harriers. There are now more than 360 bird species living here.

Accommodation: Udai Vilas (or similar)

Minimum elevation: 767ft (234m) / Maximum elevation: 1,309ft (399m)

Distance covered: 39mi (63km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 13
Cycle to Fatehpur Sikri, transfer to Agra; visit Taj Mahal at sunset
Cycling Through Rajasthan

Leave Bharatpur in the morning and cycle on backroads passing through Fatehpur Sikri, the emperor Akbar’s deserted royal city. Later, we transfer (approximately one to two hours) to Agra in time for sunset over the Taj Mahal. This romantic monument was built by the Moghul emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631. It is serenely beautiful and never fails to amaze a first-time visitor; the white-marble exterior changes colour according to the position of the sun and is matched by the rich interior detail.

Accommodation: Taj Vilas (or similar)

Minimum elevation: 475ft (145m) / Maximum elevation: 5182ft (158m)

Distance covered: 22mi (35km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 14
Visit Agra Fort; transfer to Delhi

Visit the imposing Agra Fort of Akbar in the morning, where mighty sandstone walls enclose the beautiful white-marble pearl mosque, palaces, halls, courtyards and fountains of his sons and successors, Jehangir and Shah Jahan. In the afternoon, transfer (five to six hours) to Delhi by bus, arriving early evening. The tour leader will arrange a group dinner for those who would like one last time together to share memories of the trip.

Accommodation: Hotel Deventure (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 15
Departure from Delhi

The adventure ends this morning. You can begin your return journey home, but if you’d like more time to explore this magnificent city, speak to your sales representative about booking post-tour accommodation.

Meals included: Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotels and sleeper train

Cycling Through Rajasthan

On this cycling adventure in Rajasthan, we spend 13 nights in a mixture of pleasant hotels, most with swimming pools. One night is spent on an overnight air-conditioned sleeper train. 

The hotels typically used are on the day-to-day itinerary. However, below are a few of the notable accommodations on this trip. 

Delhi to Jodhpur: Sleeper train (night 2) 

Experience an icon of travel: the Indian sleeper train! Our journey takes us from Delhi to Jodhpur, skipping the long drive, while also allowing us to interact with the local people and sample the snacks often sold on board. The accommodation is basic: we normally stay in two-tier sleepers, the compartments sectioned off from the aisle by privacy curtains. Seats are allocated at the time the tickets are issued, so the whole group isn’t always together; however, our tour leader is an expert at making the journey as hassle-free as possible and will regularly check in with you.

Jodhpur: Shree Ram International Hotel (night 3) 

Cycling Through Rajasthan

There’s plenty to recommend the Shree Ram, most notably a sprawling green garden with plenty of space to wander and relax. There’s also an outdoor pool for a quick dip plus a café-bar stocked with wines, cocktails and more. Elsewhere, there’s The Basil restaurant, serving a variety of cuisines. 

Udaipur: Paras Mahal Hotel (nights 4-5) 

Cycling Through Rajasthan

Relax in green gardens overlooking the Aravalli Hills when you stay at the Paras Mahal. Find further chilled moments at the Urvashi Bar, an ideal gathering spot for the group, or with a splash in the pool. It’s also close to the main attractions in Udaipur: the City Palace and Lake Pichola. 

Jaipur: Vesta Maurya Palace Hotel(nights 8-9) 

Cycling Through Rajasthan

Vesta Maurya Palace is a charming hotel in the heart of Jaipur on MI Road, reflecting the city’s unique blend of tradition and modern style. With its pink brick exterior, the hotel offers a rooftop pool, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and a bar, all designed to make your stay comfortable and memorable.

Worth knowing 

  • Accommodation in Pushkar during the festival departure are Swiss cottage tents (canvas tents designed to emulate Swiss cottages) with attached bathroom facilities. All meals are included. 
  • Hotels in India usually do not have heating as there are only a couple of months when the weather can get cold. You can, however, request more blankets if needed or the hotel may be able to provide a standing heater for your room. Please talk to your tour leader if you need help in this matter. 
  • It’s common for hotels in India to have limited times in the day for hot water use to save energy. If you find your shower is cold, please let your leader or reception know so they can make sure the water heater is on. 
  • Within the sleeper train, you may be sharing a compartment of four beds with members of the public depending on how the seats are allocated. 
  • Single accommodation supplement excludes sleeper trains. 
  • Some hotels we use on this trip may have swimming pools; however, these are not heated. 

Single supplement from £ 365

Food & Drink

All breakfasts, four lunches and one dinner are included.

Breakfast on arrival day is not included as you should be given breakfast on your flight. If you do want another breakfast, it costs approximately 660 Indian rupees (US$8) at the hotel in Delhi. Allow at least 1,400-2,400 rupees (US$20-US$35) per day for lunch and dinner.

In most towns, there is a good selection of restaurants and a choice between Indian and Western cuisines. If you are vegetarian, India is probably one of the best destinations to travel to with a wide range of dishes on offer. Tea and soft drinks are very cheap. A large bottle of beer is approximately 330 rupees (US$4). Mineral water is widely available.

Transport

A support vehicle is always with the group, so you only have to carry your day-to-day items.

  • Road journeys: Air-conditioned private minibus.
  • Train journeys: The overnight train to Jodhpur is booked in two-tier (or three-tier depending on availability) air-conditioned sleeper (see accommodation section for further information).
  • Game drives: In Sariska National Park, due to local restrictions enforced to limit the number of visitors to the park, big cat and wildlife spotting is from an open-top 4×4. These are licensed and usually allocated by the national park authorities; while our local contacts do their best to secure the most appropriate vehicles, we cannot guarantee vehicle standards and maintenance.

Weather & Seasonality

October to March is the ideal time to visit northern India. Days are normally warm to hot and nights cool or mild. Humidity is very low and little or no rain falls. In March, April and October, it can get very hot during the day. Evenings in Delhi and in the Thar Desert can be surprisingly cool, so bring warm clothing plus a sun hat, sunscreen and sunglasses. It gets very cold in the early mornings and evenings between December and February.

Joining Instructions

Key information

Start hotel: Ashok Country Resort, 30 Rajokri Road, Kapashera – New Delhi, Delhi, India
Phone: +91 11 25064590
Recommended arrival time:  We recommend you arrive by 1pm today. This afternoon will there will be a first introduction to your bicycles followed by a welcome briefing with your leader in the evening.
Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)

Getting to the start hotel

The start hotel is approximately 15 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.

Catching your return flight

Exodus provides free departure transfers for all customers to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) from the end hotel.

Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfers will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and from the end (or post-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts/ends; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts. 

Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.

Location start: Delhi
Location end: Delhi

What To Take

Essential Equipment

  • Insect repellent
  • Light cotton trousers (pants)
  • Lightweight long-sleeve shirt
  • Sun hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Energy snacks
  • Refillable water bottle/water bladder (also known as a hydration pack/CamelBak, which are useful for rehydrating on the go)
  • Buff (for dusty areas – or face mask if preferred)
  • Cable lock, or small chain and padlock, to lock your bag up on the train
  • Good set of warmer leggings/tops for cold cycling mornings; this is particularly required on winter departures
  • Take a thick pullover or fleece and warm trousers (pants) for the game drive in Sariska National Park where it can get very cold in the early morning and late evening. Also bring long-sleeved, neutral-coloured clothing. This helps prevent mosquito bites and improves your chances of seeing game animals, which are scared of bright colours.
  • For some monument or temple visits, clothing should cover shoulders and be on or below the knee, with exception of the Jain Temple at Ranakpur where men and women must be fully covered (long trousers (pants)/skirts and long sleeves/shawl). In general, women especially should consider dressing conservatively to avoid unwanted attention and not to cause offence

Optional Equipment

Face mask: air pollution is high in Delhi during November (but also occasionally at the end of October and beginning of December)

Equipment Hire

Included standard bike
The standard bike for this trip is a Merida Big Seven 40D or Big Seven 100.

We will take your height at the time of booking to reserve equipment. If you have a preferred bike size, please request when booking.

Bringing your own bike
If you’d prefer to bring your own bike, please advise us at the time of booking and you will receive a discount on the price of the trip. However, you will be responsible for any extra baggage charges; assembling and disassembling your bike; and bringing along spare parts and any tools specific to it. You should also ensure you have adequate insurance to cover loss, damage or theft.

Cycle Accessories

Bringing equipment from home
You’re welcome to bring your own equipment, such as SPD pedals or clipless pedals, your own saddle (excluding the seat post), or gel saddle cover for the hire bikes. Your leader will help you fit these when bikes are distributed.

Helmets
Helmets are mandatory for everyone on a guided Exodus cycling trip. You must bring your own as, following best safety practice, they are not available for hire.

Cycling clothing
For all cycling trips we recommend:

  • Padded cycling shorts: For destinations with more modest cultures, we also recommend loose ‘over-shorts’ for riding or rest stops
  • Eyewear: Either sunglasses or eye protection with clear lenses to protect the eyes while riding
  • Cycling gloves: Especially for riding off-road or on rugged surfaces
  • Cycling shoes: Cycling is more efficient with stiff-soled shoes. We don’t recommend open-toed shoes or sandals
  • Small close-fitting backpack or bum bag (fanny pack): To keep spare clothing or essential items to hand during the ride

Prohibited items to travel with in India

  • The Indian government has banned e-cigarettes and related products. You can’t buy e-cigarettes in India or bring them into the country. Please ensure you do not pack these in your luggage.
  • Satellite communications devices, for example (but not exclusively) Garmin inReach or any other brand GPS tracking device, are illegal in India without a license. Please do not bring them with you.

Practical Information

Visa

India

To avoid possible problems at immigration, make sure your passport is valid for a minimum of 180 days at the time of entry into India.

Travellers from the UK, US, CA and EU normally need a visa to enter India. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/india
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/india
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/india/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/India.html

Travellers eligible for an e-visa, which includes those from the UK, US, CA and EU, can apply at www.indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html.

For more information on applying for your Indian visa, please click on this link: Indian Visa Information

Vaccinations and Health

India

You require a yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Proof of a polio vaccination may also be required by some visitors. Please confirm all requirements and recommendations with your doctor or travel clinic.

You may also want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis A, typhoid, cholera, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies and tuberculosis. The risk of malaria is slight, but you may wish to consult your doctor or travel clinic for further advice.

Additionally, dengue fever and chikungunya are known risks in India. Both are tropical viral diseases spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for either, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Some of our India trips spend time at altitude. In regions over approximately 6,560ft (2,000m), there is little risk of mosquito-borne diseases. For trips above 9,840ft (3,000m), there is a risk of being affected by acute mountain sickness. Our itineraries are designed to enable everyone to acclimatise to these altitudes, but you should be aware that it is still possible for you to be affected. Please see the Trip Notes for further information.

The risk of malaria on this trip is slight, but you may wish to consult your GP or travel health clinic for further advice.

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome: There is evidence that Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS) is spread by contact with camels. This trip may include the option of a camel ride, or it spends time close to camels, which is undertaken at your own risk; we suggest that you visit the Travel Health Pro website which includes information about the virus.

Local Time

India's time zone: Asia/Kolkata (UTC +05:30)

Electricity

India's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins), D (three round pins) and M (three round pins) – 230V, 50Hz

Cycling Through Rajasthan

Money

India's currency: Indian rupee (INR). Please note, it is illegal to import or export rupees. Do not accept torn or very dirty Indian banknotes from banks or in change as they will almost certainly not be accepted as legal tender in India. You can normally change money back from rupees into US dollars or British pounds at the departure airport, but you must produce an exchange receipt showing that you changed money in India.

ATM Availability

ATMs are widely available in India (Visa and Mastercard are best). However, you should not rely on these 100 percent of the time, so please take some cash with you. Please inform your bank before departure that you are travelling to India and carry the relevant telephone number with you in case they block your card. You can pay with credit cards in bigger shops all over India.

Money exchange facilities are available on arrival at Delhi international airport, although the rates are not always favourable. You can change US dollars and British pounds in cash outside of Delhi in the main cities.

Extra Expenses & Spending Money

Many sites now charge a small fee for video cameras (handy cams) and you should allow another 740 rupees (approximately US$9) for these. Also allow at least 660 rupees (approximately US$8) per day for personal expenditures, such as soft drinks. There are endless shopping opportunities throughout this tour and we suggest you take money for souvenirs; even the most shop-shy travellers often succumb to the tempting selection of handicrafts available.

During your trip, it is likely your local guides will take you to emporiums and handicraft workshops. Guides often assume visitors want to shop, it is very much part of the culture, but if you do not wish to go, please make this clear to your guide and Exodus leader at the time. Many people find this a great opportunity to buy local handicrafts, silk, jewellery and carpets.

Optional excursions

There are plenty of opportunities for local excursions and cultural experiences throughout this trip, which can be booked locally (subject to availability and time allowed) or pre-booked if you are choosing to arrive before or depart later than the main group itinerary. For an overview of the optional extras, please see below:

Delhi (start or end of trip):

  • Half-day city tour: approximately 2,500-6,500 rupees (US$30-US$75) per person (depending on the group size)

This tour covers sites not included within the main trip itinerary: Qutab Minar, Humayun’s Tomb and the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a Sikh place of worship. The price includes monument entrance fees, transportation, local guide and tipping.

  • Morning Old Delhi city walk with Salaam Baalak Trust: approximately 3,500-5,500 rupees (US$42-US$53) per person (depending on the group size)

Led by ex-street kids of Delhi, this insightful walk starts from Jama Masjid and takes you through the narrow alleys in the heart of the old city. Price includes transportation, local guide and tipping. Entrance to Jama Masjid monument is not included. Tour is subject to availability at time of request.

Tipping

Tipping is part of the culture in India and usually expected.

Tipping kitty: To make things easy, your tour leader will offer to arrange and look after a tipping kitty, used to tip hotel staff, local sightseeing guides, mechanics, bus drivers and any other support staff used throughout your trip. Your tour leader will suggest how much to contribute, depending on group size, but it is usually about 4,200 rupees (approximately US$55) per person based on the maximum group size of 16 passengers. For smaller groups, the leader may ask to collect more than the suggested amount relative to the group size, this is to assist with covering the standard tipping expectations for local guides, drivers and hotel staff etc (which, are generally fixed amounts no matter the group size). At any time during the trip, your leader will be happy to show you an account of how the kitty is being distributed, including what’s being provided to the support staff assisting the leader.

  • Holi Festival (14 March 2025 and 4 March 2026): Your tour leader will look to arrange some activities for you to enjoy and join in with the festivities. There will be a supplement between 600-1,600 rupees (approximately US$7-US$20) per person, which is usually deducted from the kitty. Price depends upon the location and festival inclusions for Holi celebration.

Tour leader: Tipping of tour leaders is not included in the kitty and is at your own discretion. If you wish to show your appreciation, you may find the following recommendations helpful:

  • Groups of seven people or fewer (with one cycle leader): a contribution of 420-520 rupees (US$6-US$7) per person per day
  • Groups of eight people or more (with two cycle leaders): a contribution of 500-600 rupees (US$6-US$7) per person per day, which is shared between the two cycle leaders

Sustainability and Impact

As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.

We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.

This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony though practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.

Important Information

Your safe participation 

When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call us and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary. 

Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity. 

By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred. 

Seatbelts

All vehicles used by us should be equipped with working seatbelts, except where approved by us based on the vehicle type or journey. Wherever seatbelts are available, we require our customers to use them for their own safety, even where it may not be a legal requirement.

How to Book

  1. Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
  2. Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
  3. Complete your booking and payment

When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.

After booking

You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.

Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.

Trip Note validity

These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.

The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.

Licensing

Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.