India Key Travel Information

Trip Overview

Is this trip right for you?

India is an incredible destination, but it can also feel intense at times. Expect busy cities, vibrant markets, unfamiliar sounds, and a fast-paced atmosphere, especially in places like Delhi and Jaipur. If you’re open to stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing a different way of life, this journey can be incredibly rewarding.

There are a couple of longer travel days on this itinerary, with some journeys lasting 5+ hours. While this allows us to cover a diverse range of destinations, it also means spending time on the road. These travel days are a great opportunity to take in the changing landscapes and connect with your fellow travelers.

Overall, this experience is best suited for travelers who are flexible, curious, and excited to fully embrace everything that makes India so unique.

Women-Only Experience

This is a women-only journey, thoughtfully designed to foster connection, comfort, and shared understanding.

Traveling as a group of women creates space for deeper conversations, meaningful connections, and a greater sense of ease — especially in a destination as vibrant and layered as India. It also opens the door to more authentic cultural exchanges, allowing us to connect more personally with the women we meet along the way.

Throughout this journey, we intentionally highlight and support women-led initiatives, social enterprises, and locally owned businesses. In many parts of India, women face systemic barriers to economic opportunity, and tourism can play a powerful role in creating more equitable access. By engaging with these experiences, from artisan cooperatives to community projects, we’re not just observing culture; we’re helping uplift and support the women shaping it.

This trip is about more than where we go. It’s about who we connect with, who we support, and the impact we leave behind.

How physically challenging is the trip?

This trip has a moderate activity level.

Most days include walking through cities, markets, and historical sites, sometimes on uneven surfaces or with steps, particularly at forts and monuments. There is also an opportunity for a hike in the Nahargarh Biological Park.

While no advanced fitness is required, a reasonable level of mobility and comfort with walking is important to fully enjoy the experience.

Where does the trip start and end?

This trip begins and ends in Delhi, India.

Your adventure starts with a welcome meeting at 6:00 pm on Day 1, so we recommend arriving earlier that day to settle in and avoid any travel delays.

There are no planned activities on the final day, and you’re free to depart at any time after breakfast.

Airport transportation

Airport transfers are not included in this trip. You will arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), which is well-connected to the city.

Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport is one of the biggest airports in the world. It can be busy, and processing your visa and collecting your luggage can take some time.

The taxi ride from the airport to the hotel takes approx 1 hour and costs between INR 500 – 800. When you exit, you will see reputable metered taxi counters such as Meru Cabs/Mega Cabs, or Easy Cabs. Show them your drop-off location and pay them as per the meter once you get to your hotel.

IMPORTANT: Please avoid taxi touts who claim to have a metered taxi parked outside the airport. Previous travelers have complained that they were charged a hefty fee for transfers.

A local social enterprise, Sakha Wings, runs an all-women taxi service which provides extra peace of mind and security for solo women travelers. You can book a ride with them online.

If you prefer, we can also help arrange a private airport transfer in advance for a smooth and easy arrival.

What are the included hotels?

DuDuring this 13-day, 12-night trip, you’ll stay in a thoughtfully selected mix of heritage properties, boutique hotels, and locally owned accommodations that reflect the character of each destination.

In the unlikely event that something changes, we may need to substitute a hotel with a similar property. We will notify you if this occurs.

Are laundry services available?

Laundry services are available at some of the hotels on the itinerary for an additional cost. Larger hotels may offer in-house laundry service, while smaller boutique properties may arrange local laundry options upon request. If you’d like to have clothes washed during the trip, simply ask the front desk or your tour leader for assistance, and they’ll be happy to help.

What are the included transportation options?

Transportation throughout the trip includes a mix of private vehicles, train travel, and local transport, depending on the destination and experience.

All transportation (except the airport transfer) included in the itinerary is arranged for you, allowing you to travel comfortably while experiencing a variety of local transport styles along the way.

Included activities

This trip includes a variety of guided experiences designed to give you a deeper connection to each destination.

Highlights include exploring historic sites like forts and palaces, walking tours through vibrant markets and old cities, a jeep safari in the Thar Desert, a Holi celebration, and visits to iconic landmarks such as the Taj Mahal.

You’ll also take part in meaningful, community-based experiences, including visits to women-led initiatives and social enterprises, offering a more personal and impactful way to connect with local culture.

All activities listed in the itinerary are included unless otherwise noted as optional.

Holi Celebration

This itinerary is timed to coincide with Holi, India’s vibrant Festival of Colours, a celebration deeply rooted in tradition, mythology, and seasonal change.

Holi marks the arrival of spring and is widely seen as a time of renewal, joy, and new beginnings. Its origins are tied to ancient Hindu stories, most notably the legend of Prahlad and Holika, which symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the power of faith and devotion.

Beyond its mythology, Holi has evolved into a celebration of connection and community. Social boundaries are set aside for the day as people gather in the streets to sing, dance, and throw colored powders, embracing a spirit of equality, forgiveness, and togetherness.

Experiencing Holi firsthand offers a deeper insight into India’s cultural and spiritual traditions, blending history, symbolism, and modern celebration into one unforgettable experience.

Here are a few additional things to keep in mind:

Holi is colorful  and messy

You will be covered head to toe in brightly colored powders (and sometimes water!). Wear clothes you don’t mind staining! White is traditional and makes the colors pop, but it will never be the same again.

Dress thoughtfully

We recommend lightweight clothing that offers a bit of coverage (such as longer sleeves or loose pants) for both sun protection and comfort. Sunglasses can help protect your eyes, and a scarf can be useful if things get especially colorful.

Energy levels can be high

Holi is celebratory and lively, with music, dancing, and crowds. We intentionally celebrate in a more comfortable, group-oriented environment, but it’s still a high-energy experience.

Respectful participation matters

While Holi is playful, it’s important to be mindful and respectful of local customs and personal boundaries. A good rule of thumb is to engage with those who are actively participating and welcoming it.

How many people are in the group?

This is a small-group experience with a maximum of 16 travelers, plus a guide (or guides) throughout the trip.

Trip minimum        

A minimum of 5 travelers is required to run the trip at the listed price.

Payment dates and refunds

The deadline to secure your spot is December 14, 2026, but many trips sell out well in advance! The deposit is due at the time of booking to confirm your participation and is non-refundable unless the trip is not confirmed.

The final balance is due by December 28, 2026. If additional trip payments are made before the deadline (December 28), they are refundable, less credit card processing fees. After December 28, the trip is non-refundable.

It is advised to get a travel insurance policy that includes cancellation coverage after making the deposit.  

If the trip isn’t confirmed

Like most small boutique tour operators, we require a minimum number of travelers to operate our trips. While larger companies may be able to absorb losses, operating responsibly as a small business means we must ensure each trip is financially viable. 

In the unlikely event that a trip is not confirmed, several options are available. If the trip is close to the minimum, we may reassess pricing and offer travelers the option to proceed at an adjusted rate. We can also explore planning a private departure for you and your travel companions. Alternatively, you may transfer your deposit to another Veggies Abroad trip, or request a full refund of your deposit if none of these options feels like the right fit for you.

Itinerary disclaimer

Please note that the itinerary is subject to change. We always stay flexible to account for weather, site closures, and the occasional unexpected surprise that’s simply part of travel. Rest assured, any adjustments are made with the best possible experience in mind.

We will also do our best to provide rough estimates on timing but please note that due to traffic, construction, festivals, closures, etc., there might be changes or we might not be able to give a firm answer.

Local Partners

To deliver a sustainable and authentic experience, this trip is operated by Intrepid Travel. Veggies Abroad and Intrepid co-create the itinerary, with Intrepid handling all in-destination logistics through their trusted local teams.

Essential Pre-Departure Information

Passports, visas, and entry requirements

You’ll need a valid passport to travel to India, and we recommend it has at least 6 months of validity beyond your planned departure date and at least 1 blank page.

Most travelers will require a visa to enter India. An E-Tourist Visa (e-Visa) is available for many nationalities and can be applied for online prior to travel. You can find more information and apply here. This is the only official visa online site. There are many other mirror sites run by visa service companies or scammers that may not be reliable.

You can also use Sherpa to check entrance and visa requirements.

Medical and health information

It’s important to be in reasonably good health to fully enjoy this trip, as it includes outdoor activities, some early mornings, and a few longer travel days between destinations. If you’re feeling unwell before departure or have any concerns about your ability to participate in the itinerary, we recommend reaching out to us in advance so we can talk through the best options.

Can I bring all medications into the country?

Most travelers are allowed to bring medications into India for personal use. We recommend keeping all medications in their original packaging, clearly labeled with your name, and carrying a copy of your prescription if applicable. Avoid packing loose or unlabeled medications.

If you take prescription or controlled medications, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor or your government’s travel advisory before traveling to ensure you have the proper documentation.

Vaccinations and health considerations

Health Considerations to Keep in Mind and/or Discuss with a Medical Professional:

Mosquito-Borne Illness 

Malaria is a risk in many parts of India, including major cities. Cases of dengue fever are reported, especially after the monsoon. Other mosquito-borne diseases (including Japanese encephalitis, chikungunya fever, Zika, and filariasis) also occur. Take preventative measures such as wearing long clothing, using repellent, and being indoors, particularly around dusk and dawn. Consult a medical professional regarding malaria prophylaxis. For more information, see the World Health Organization’s fact sheets.

Air Pollution

During winter months (usually October-February), air pollution levels in parts of India can spike to hazardous levels. Severe pollution can increase the risk of respiratory problems. Those with pre-existing medical conditions, particularly heart and lung conditions, may be especially affected. It’s a good idea to pack (reusable) face masks as a precaution.

Other Infectious Diseases

Packing Recommendations

We recommend packing as lightly as possible and being comfortable carrying your own luggage for short distances, including in and out of hotels, train stations, and vehicles. While assistance is often available, there may be times when you’ll need to manage your own bags.

March in India can bring warm, sometimes humid days, along with cooler mornings and evenings, particularly in desert regions. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal, along with a light layer for changing temperatures throughout the day.

Comfortable walking shoes are especially important for this trip. Many of the places we visit, including forts, markets, and old city streets, feature uneven terrain, steps, and busy pathways. Supportive shoes will make exploring much more enjoyable.

A modest dress code is required when visiting temples and religious sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered, so packing items like a lightweight scarf, shawl, or longer skirt or pants can be helpful.

You may also want to bring a set of clothes you don’t mind getting stained for the Holi celebration.

It’s a good idea to have a small day bag for essentials like water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a light layer while out exploring. A small personal medical kit with items like pain relievers, motion sickness medication, cold medicine, and any prescription medications you may need can also be useful during travel.

Travel adapters

India uses plug types C, D, and M plugs and operates at 230V. Travelers from North America will need a plug adapter and should check that their devices are compatible with 230V power. Many modern electronics, such as phone chargers and laptops, are dual voltage, but it’s always best to confirm before traveling.

If you’re bringing multiple devices, you may find it helpful to pack a small power strip or multi-port USB charger so you can charge everything with a single adapter.

Spending money

How much you spend will vary based on your personal travel style. We recommend budgeting for optional meals, drinks, shopping, activities, and laundry. Be sure to review the itinerary and inclusions carefully so you know what’s covered in the trip price and what you may want to budget for along the way.

The local currency in India is the Indian Rupee (INR). While credit and debit cards are accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and some shops, India is still largely a cash-based society, especially in smaller towns and markets, and for everyday purchases.

ATMs are widely available throughout the trip if you need to withdraw cash. As with most destinations, it’s a good idea to notify your bank before traveling so your cards work smoothly while abroad.

Staying in communication

Before and during the trip, we will keep in communication via WhatsApp. If you don’t have the app downloaded and set up on your phone, please do so after making the deposit. We will utilize the group chat to share itinerary changes/updates, photos, reminders, and more.

Additional trip considerations

India is a vibrant and diverse destination, and things don’t always run exactly as planned. Flexibility, patience, and a sense of humor will go a long way in making the most of your experience.

As mentioned above, there are several longer travel days throughout this itinerary. While this allows us to experience a variety of destinations, it also means spending time on the road, which is all part of the journey in a country as vast as India.

This trip also includes one more active day with a longer hiking experience in Jaipur. While it is designed to be enjoyable and accessible for most travelers, it does involve uneven terrain and time on your feet.

You may encounter schedule changes, traffic delays, or unexpected adjustments along the way. Your guide will always do their best to keep everything running smoothly while ensuring you have the best possible experience.

It’s also important to be mindful of local customs and cultural differences, which may be different from what you’re used to. Approaching these moments with curiosity and respect will help you connect more deeply with the places you visit.

Destination Overview

Weather

March is a great time to visit India, with generally warm and pleasant conditions across most of the itinerary.

In cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra, you can expect warm days, often ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s°F (around 24–30°C), with cooler mornings and evenings. In desert regions such as Bikaner and Jodhpur, temperatures can vary more, with warm days and noticeably cooler nights.

Rain is unlikely during this time of year, but conditions can vary, so it’s best to be prepared for a mix of temperatures throughout the day.

Food: Is India vegan-friendly?

Yes, India is one of the most vegan-friendly destinations in the world. Many traditional Indian dishes are naturally plant-based, especially in regions where vegetarian diets are widely practiced.

While not everything is vegan by default, your guide will help you navigate menus, communicate dietary preferences, and ensure your meals align with your needs.

Throughout the trip, all included meals are 100% vegan, and we’ve carefully selected restaurants and culinary experiences that highlight plant-based versions of classic Indian dishes.

Can you accommodate allergies?

We can do our best to accommodate allergies, but we don’t visit places that are entirely nut-free, gluten-free, etc., so cross-contamination is always a concern. Please be sure to share any allergies or special requirements during the booking process so we can have a conversation and assess if this trip is right for you.

Tap water

Tap water in India is not safe to drink. We recommend drinking only bottled or filtered water throughout the trip. Most hotels provide filtered water, and your guide will help ensure you always have access to safe drinking water.

Bringing a reusable water bottle is a great way to stay hydrated during the trip while reducing your footprint.

Cultural differences

India has a rich and diverse culture, and you may encounter customs and ways of life that are different from what you’re used to.

It’s common to see a wide range of traditions, religions, and daily practices throughout the trip. Being open-minded, patient, and respectful will help you better connect with the people and places you visit.

Safety for Women

As a woman traveling in India, you may notice different social norms and levels of attention in public spaces. Traveling as part of a group and with a local guide helps create a more comfortable and supported experience throughout the trip.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Dress with intention

Dressing modestly (covering shoulders, chest, and knees) is recommended in many parts of India. This helps you feel more comfortable, shows respect for local customs, and can reduce unwanted attention.

Be mindful of your surroundings

Avoid isolated or poorly lit areas, including quiet streets, beaches, or village paths, especially if alone. Stick to busier, well-trafficked areas whenever possible. 

 Use trusted transportation

When using taxis or drivers, always arrange them through hotels, reputable services, or pre-paid airport counters. Avoid hailing taxis off the street when possible. If you are being picked up, confirm your driver’s identity before getting in the vehicle.

Limit solo travel at night

We recommend avoiding traveling alone at night, particularly on public transportation or in taxis. When possible, move around with your group or coordinate transport in advance.

Trust your instincts and set boundaries

If something doesn’t feel right, trust that instinct. It’s always okay to say no, remove yourself from a situation, or seek support from your guide or group.

One of the biggest advantages of this trip is that you’re traveling with a group and experienced local guides. We’ve intentionally designed this experience to prioritize comfort, safety, and support — so you can focus on enjoying the journey.

Tipping

You may consider tipping our tour leader for outstanding service. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline, $8 – $10 per person, per day is a good standard.

At the beginning of the tour, we will also discuss starting a tipping kitty for tipping support staff (hotel staff, driver, etc.).

Additional tipping information:

Tipping is customary in India and is a meaningful way to show appreciation for good service.

Throughout the trip, there will be opportunities to tip local guides, drivers, and service staff. Your tour leader will provide guidance on when and how much to tip, and may help coordinate group tipping where appropriate.

In restaurants, a tip of around 5–10% is generally appreciated if a service charge is not already included

Wifi and phone access

For the most part, you will have access to WiFi at hotels and many restaurants or cafés throughout the trip. Connection speeds may vary depending on the location, especially in smaller towns or on the island, but staying connected is generally easy.

We recommend having an international phone plan or purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival if you’d like to stay connected when Wi-Fi isn’t available. This will help ensure we can reach you if needed during the trip.

Traffic & Getting Around

Traffic in India, especially in cities like Delhi and Jaipur, can be busy and unpredictable. Travel times may vary depending on road conditions and congestion.

Throughout the trip, transportation is arranged for you using a mix of private vehicles, trains, and local transport. Your driver and guide will work together to ensure your journey is as smooth and efficient as possible.

Getting around can be part of the experience, offering a unique glimpse into daily life and the energy of each destination.

Problems While Traveling & Safety

Emergency contact information

While we always aim to provide the best possible experience, travel can sometimes come with the unexpected. If any issue arises during your trip, it’s important to speak with your group leader or local representative right away. They’re there to help resolve concerns as quickly as possible and ensure your trip stays on track.

We will also provide an emergency number before the trip departs in the event that you run into problems while traveling to Iceland.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is highly recommended for all of our trips, and we’re happy to provide you with a recommended company and/or quote. It’s essential to have a policy that provides cancellation, medical, and emergency repatriation coverage.

It is important to get the policy after making the deposit, especially if you want coverage for a pre-existing health issue or want to add cancel for any reason coverage. If you decide to forego travel insurance, you will be required to sign a travel insurance waiver that states you’re taking personal responsibility for any costs due to cancellation, trip delay, emergency medical, and repatriation should they arise.

 If you need any help with a plan or have questions, please reach out.

Travel advisories

We recommend checking your government’s foreign travel advisory for the most up-to-date information before you go. It’s also important to ensure your travel insurance covers all destinations and activities included in your trip. We suggest saving the emergency consular assistance number for your country while traveling.

Responsible Travel

Responsible travel is at the heart of everything we do. For us, it means creating experiences that respect local communities, protect wildlife, and honor the cultural traditions of the places we visit — while giving travelers a deeper, more meaningful connection to each destination.

In India, responsible travel includes supporting locally owned accommodations, restaurants, and guides throughout the trip, as well as visiting community-based initiatives that create meaningful opportunities for local people. Experiences like meeting women artisans, dining at social enterprises, and staying in heritage properties help ensure that tourism has a positive impact on the communities we visit.

Responsible travel also means being mindful of local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting temples and religious sites. Approaching each experience with curiosity, humility, and respect helps create more meaningful connections with the people and places we encounter.

By traveling thoughtfully and intentionally, we can help ensure these destinations remain vibrant, resilient, and welcoming for generations to come — and that our journeys truly give back. Read more about our policies here.

Traveling as a Group

As we journey together, please keep in mind that you’ll be traveling with a diverse group of fellow adventurers from around the world and all walks of life. While you may find common ground on many things, differences in backgrounds, beliefs, and perspectives are natural. We kindly ask that you remain respectful, considerate, and open-minded throughout our time together.

To help ensure a welcoming and inclusive environment, we recommend being mindful of your conversations and avoiding clothing or accessories that are overtly political or could be considered offensive—whether to your fellow travelers or the communities we visit.

Be Mindful of Time

Out of respect for your fellow travelers and to keep our adventures running smoothly, we ask that you arrive on time for all scheduled activities. If you’re asked to be somewhere at a specific time, please make every effort to be punctual so the group isn’t kept waiting.

We’ve found that the most memorable and enjoyable tours are those where the group dynamic is positive and supportive—and that starts with each person doing their part. A little consideration goes a long way in making the experience amazing for everyone.

At Veggies Abroad, we’re committed to creating a safe, respectful, and positive space for everyone—both within our group and in the destinations we explore.