Himalayan Adventure, India
7 nights from £779 (child) and £879 (adult)
Holiday Highlights:
- Visit the world famous Taj Mahal in Agra
- Go white water rafting on the River Ganges
- Immerse in local culture with a visit to a local village school, temples, spice markets and more
- Share your experience with other UK families and an expert tour guide
Pay in 3 interest free installments with Paypal Learn More
What makes this Family Holiday Special?
Imagine a holiday that’s not just a break from routine, but a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. This special family journey across India is exactly that. Experience a mosaic of cultures, tastes and colours, step back in history with visits to the Taj Mahal, Delhi’s old town and the Rishikesh holy festivals, get the pulse racing with a rafting session down the Ganges, and get to know authentic India during this 8-day family adventure.
This trip is ideal for families looking for an out-of-the-box holiday. If opening up to new cultures and experiences is what you love most about travelling, this is the trip for you. Our carefully tailored itinerary, the specialist guides, and the handy inclusions will help you make the most of your time in India.
What activities will you be doing?
Visiting India together is one of the most enriching and unforgettable experiences a family can have. While it’s true that India can be overwhelming for a lot of adult travellers, the destination has a type of whimsical tumult that children thrive in. India’s kaleidoscope of sights, smells, tastes, and colours can inspire children for a lifetime… and soon enough, this incredible culture will have parents look at the world through their eyes too. Few countries bring back the feeling of discovering something new every day quite like this one.But where to start? There is indeed something to be found for everyone, whether you’re passionate about immersing in a different culture, trying delicious dishes, haggling with the locals at a quirky market, sightseeing awe inspiring temples, or an outdoor adventure aficionado. We’re here to make sure you make the most of your time in India, with a carefully planned itinerary that has the right mix of adventure, safety and relaxation. No obstacle should stand in your way to experiencing this amazing country, so you’ll be joined by expert guides and trained professionals for all activities. During this trip, you’ll spend most of your days in Delhi, Agra, and the holy city of Rishikesh. You’ll check out all the must-see locations: the wondrous Taj Mahal, Old Delhi, The Lotus Temple, and the holy Aarti ceremony in Rishikesh, just to name a few. You’ll tackle the Ganges with an adventurous white water rafting session. You’ll connect with the local culture during a visit to a Jain temple, the spice markets where the sound of barter plays a jolly tune, and a stop at a village school, to learn about life in India. You’ll get the authentic Indian travel experience with an overnight train trip. You’ll taste too many delicious dishes to count.
And most importantly, you and your family will have the adventure of a lifetime.
Sample Family Activity Programme
Arrival Day
Transfer and checking inNamaste and welcome to India! Touch down at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi (DEL). Your experienced travel guide will meet you here and join you on the included transfer to the hotel. You’ll reach your accommodation after a 40-minute – 1 hour drive. Check-in, settle in your cosy room, and then join your travel guide and the rest of the group for a delightful lunch (at additional cost) at a nearby restaurant. You’ll get a short overview of the schedule for the coming days. Next up, it’s time to get a first look at India’s colourful capital, New Delhi. The tour starts at 1 PM, so make sure you arrive at the hotel in time.
Tour of New DelhiSeeing Delhi for the first time is a magical experience, akin to stepping into a whirlwind of sensations. The old and the new seem to endlessly tug at each other, with ancient monuments standing proudly above the bustle of a modern metropolis.
Your first stop is Gandhi’s Memorial House, the leader’s last residence before his death. The museum beautifully immerses visitors into Gandhi’s storied life, allowing you to literally walk in his footsteps. Beyond the expertly presented historical facts, the museum with its expansive gardens is a sight to behold and a gateway to India’s past.The next stop is the towering India Gate, Delhi’s own “Arc de Triomphe”, memorialising the Indian soldiers of the British Army who fought in WW1. The tour ends at the Dili Haat craft market, a vibrant diorama of daily life in Delhi. This lively market is a prime spot for souvenir shopping, tasty local snacks, and a chance to sharpen your talent for haggling with vendors.EveningThe day ends with a delicious dinner enjoyed together with the group.*Included meals: dinner
Day 2 – Exploring Old DelhiWake up and enjoy a refreshing family breakfast, then get ready for another day of discovery. If the first-day tour focused on Delhi’s more recent history, today brings a step back into India’s bygone era.Chandni Chowk and Old DelhiOld Delhi is a completely different side of this amazing city. You’ll walk through narrow, bustling streets, check out local artisan shops, and see striking ancient architecture. The lanes rumble with the constant movement of rickshaws, mopeds, and even cows, and life never seems to slow down here.The guide will lead you through the vibrant chaos of Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest markets in the city and a feast for the senses, with colourful shops selling everything from spices to traditional Indian clothes. Choose your lunch spot (additional cost); your guide can provide some recommendations based on your preferences.Rickshaw ride, the Jain Temple, and Jain Trust SchoolNo visit to the old town is complete without an exciting rickshaw ride, a sure hit with children particularly. This iconic mode of transportation gives you a better close-up view of the locals going about their daily lives.You’ll arrive at the Jain Temple and the Jain Trust School, hidden gems offering a fascinating peek into this deeply spiritual community. Jainism, an ancient Indian religion, focuses on peaceful living and respect for all living beings.EveningYour tour guide will take you to a local restaurant for dinner (additional cost) and brief you on your upcoming trip to Agra and the Taj Mahal. Relax, unwind, and prepare for the next day.*Included meals – breakfast
Day 3 – The iconic Taj MahalPrepare for an early start, as today you’ll embark on a magical journey to the iconic Taj Mahal, the wonder that needs no introduction. You’ll board a 6 AM train to Agra, as getting there early in the morning helps you avoid both crowds and the heat. You’ll be able to enjoy a packed meal on the way there.The Taj MahalThe Taj Mahal is a love story set in stone, built as a final resting place for an ancient emperor’s wife, the emperor Shah Jahan. The breathtaking marble mausoleum is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and one of the New Wonders of the World. Spend the morning wandering the breathtaking gardens, take family pictures to remember (they may be cliche, but this is a once-in-a-lifetime sight), and learn more about the eternal love story between the emperor and his soulmate. It’s no wonder that Rudyard Kipling described it as “the embodiment of all things pure”.Visiting AgraAfter your visit, return to Agra and keep exploring the historic capital of the Mughal Empire. As an optional extra and if there’s enough time, visit the Red Fort (another majestic structure, also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites) and the Marble Factory, where you can see how artisans craft and cut the famous Agra marble. At your guide’s recommendation, find a place to eat for lunch and enjoy the local flavours (for an extra cost).Return to Delhi and train to HaridwarIn the evening, catch the 17.40 train back to Delhi, arriving at around 19.30. You’ll be taken to the hotel and have a chance to refresh and have dinner, then you’ll return to the train station to board the overnight train to Haridwar. The overnight train is a unique and authentic way of experiencing travel in India. You can read more about the sleeping arrangements on the train in the accommodation tab.
*Included meals – packed breakfast, dinner
Day 4 – RishikeshAfter your train journey, arrive at Dehradun, then transfer to Rishikesh by train or taxi. This haven, once a creative sanctuary for the Beatles, invites your family to explore its soul-stirring landscapes and vibrant streets.This holy city sprawled along the banks of the Ganges is popular with pilgrims and yoga enthusiasts alike. It features spectacular views of lush, jungle-covered hills, as well as plenty of famous temples. Locals and tourists alike retreat to Rishikesh to recharge spiritually and enjoy the festivals. But beyond being the yoga capital of the world, Rishikesh is a prime spot for adventure sports, like rafting, bungee jumping, trekking, or camping.Once you arrive at your hotel in Rishikesh, you’ll be free to explore the area at your leisure. Walk across the suspended bridges above the Ganges, check out the local markets, or visit one of the Ashram temples. Once evening sets, enjoy a group meal with your fellow travellers. You’ll also learn more about the next day’s activities, including your white water rafting trip.*Included meals – breakfast, dinner
Day 5 – Rafting on the GangesWhite water rafting
Get ready for an exhilarating day, featuring another trip highlight – white water rafting across the Ganges. After a refreshing breakfast, meet up with the expert guides for a briefing on today’s activity. They’ll provide a comprehensive safety training ensuring everyone is perfectly prepared for a thrilling adventure on the river. Suitable for families with children aged 14 and above, this activity combines the excitement of navigating the river’s rapids with the awe-inspiring scenery of Rishikesh’s natural landscapes.
The Aarti Festival
After a morning spent exploring the rapids and jawdropping sights of the Ganges, put your paddles away and grab some lunch in Rishikesh (extra cost). You can spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Rishikesh’s spiritual heritage even further. As the sun drops below the horizon, immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of the Aarti Festival, a captivating celebration of lights by the river. You’ll get a glimpse of authentic Hindu rituals and traditions. The Aarti usually takes place on the banks of the Ganges, in front of a Shiva statue built on the river.The Aarti festival is a ritual worship of the holy Ganges River. Starting at sundown, worshippers in saffron robes sign chants joined by drums and bells, burn sacred herbs and incense, and make offerings to Shiva and Agni, the god of fire. Enjoy the calm atmosphere of the ritual, then end the day with another delicious dinner, overlooking the river.*Included meals – breakfast, dinner
Day 6 – Yoga and local school visitFollowing breakfast, rejuvenate with an optional traditional yoga session; after all, what better place to do this than Rishikesh, the world capital of yoga? Afterward, embark on a leisurely guided trek through the lush landscapes, leading you to a local village school. Here, you’ll experience the heartwarming simplicity of rural life. A packed lunch will accompany you, perfect for a picnic in nature.Interacting with other students is a chance for children to see how peers from other cultural backgrounds play and learn, encouraging their curiosity, empathy, and a deeper sense of understanding of different cultures. If you wish, you may bring a book with you from home to donate to the school, as a token of friendship.In the afternoon, return to Haridwar, then board the 6 PM train, a relaxing ride back to Delhi, with dinner served onboard. As you arrive in Delhi at 10:30 PM, the vibrant city lights welcome you back. You’ll then transfer to your hotel, wrapping up another day well-spent exploring India’s delights with your family.*Included meals – breakfast, packed lunch, dinner
Day 7 – Sikh and Bahá’í templesAfter breakfast, on your final day in Delhi, explore the spiritual world of the Sikh Gurudwara. You’ll head there using the convenient metro system. It’s a place where families can experience the tranquillity and unity of Sikh traditions. You might even have the chance to witness the captivating Langar, a community kitchen that serves meals to all visitors regardless of their background. Afterwards, be sure to stop by the Lotus Temple, a Bahá’í House of Worship known for its lotus shaped design and serene gardens. It’s a spot for families to find moments of peace and reflection.
After these visits, take some time to relax with a shopping spree in Connaught Place or Khan Market where you can find souvenirs to boast about back home. For lunch, your guide is more than happy to recommend a restaurant, but there’s also plenty of familiar food chains around. Lastly, end your visit to India on a regal note with dinner at the Revolving Restaurant, a rotating restaurant high up in a tower, offering you spectacular panoramic views of New Delhi (without ever having to get up from your seat).*Included meals – breakfast, dinner
Day 8 – DepartureAnd just like that, it’s time to head back. Enjoy your last breakfast, then board the transfer to the Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL). Catch your flight around lunchtime and head on back to the UK, with a backpack full of stories and a heart full of memories. Safe travels!
Where you’ll be staying
Your adventures throughout India will cover three different destinations. For each of them, accommodation is provided.Accommodation in DelhiYour family will be staying at a chosen mid-range hotel in Delhi. Our selection ensures you get the perfect mix of comfort, affordability, and cultural immersion. Tucked away in a safe and family-friendly neighbourhood, it provides a private room that is both clean and spacious, complete with an en-suite bathroom. At the end of an exciting and full day, your family can wind down and enjoy comfortable privacy.The hotel’s location is ideal for exploration in your free time, granting you easy access to a wide range of local amenities such as various shops, family-friendly restaurants, and charming cafes. This allows you to fully immerse yourselves in the vibrant lifestyle of the city right at your doorstep.
During your stay, you will be treated to a delicious breakfast that offers a variety of choices to satisfy all palates and dietary preferences. This wholesome meal will ensure that you have enough energy to explore Delhi.
Overnight train to Haridwar
Few elements are as integral to the Indian day-to-day as train rides. Your overnight train ride to Haridwar will give you an authentic glimpse into this facet of the local culture. You’ll occupy a second-class compartment, providing basic but comfortable sleeping arrangements with bunk beds, bedding, and air conditioning. However, as the trains come with an open layout, the only way to ensure privacy is through a curtain. Nonetheless, this is an excellent opportunity to interact with the local travellers.
Trains in India tend to be quite lively and not always quiet, but bringing a sleep mask or some earplugs is an easy solution. While not luxurious, the trains are generally clean and well-maintained, and you’ll be provided with bed linens. Before your journey, there’ll be time to enjoy a meal and refresh at the hotel. Packing some extra snacks and drinks beforehand will make the experience more comfortable, especially for the children.The train journey is an excellent chance to step out of your comfort zone and experience life in India in a way that few other experiences can match. Embrace this adventure with an open mind, and you’ll remember this adventure for years to come.
Accommodation in RishikeshSimilarly to the accommodation in Delhi, you and your family will be staying at a mid-range hotel in this eclectic and deeply spiritual city. You’ll benefit from a comfortable, clean private family room, featuring an ensuite bathroom. The hotel is located in an area perfect for on-foot exploration, with markets, eateries, and local flavour galore.Your accommodation in Rishikesh includes a delightful breakfast, the perfect start to an adventurous day, which will include rafting down the Ganges.
Useful Information
Flying to India
The Himalayan Adventure Package does not include flights. However, we’re here to make your travel experience easy. If you need help organising your flight to India, let us know and we’d be happy to find quick and affordable flight quotes for you.Your best option is to book a flight from the UK to Delhi. Direct flights to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) usually depart from London Heathrow (LHR), lasting about 9 hours and 30 minutes. Flights with one or more stops can be cheaper and may take 12+ hours. We recommend choosing an overnight flight; this will let you get to your hotel for lunchtime on the first day, without wasting any of the activities in the travel package. Flying overnight is often very comfortable, with many airlines offering family-friendly services, like priority boarding, child meals, or in-flight entertainment.It’s best to arrive at the airport three hours before your departure. Since you’re flying from two of the biggest airports in the world, make sure to leave enough time for checking in/collecting your luggage, visa processing, and security. Make sure to have all necessary documents prepared beforehand: passports, visas, two-way flight tickets, and travel insurance documents.Your package includes transfers from/to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL).Travel during your tripIn addition to airport transfers, your package includes organised transport to all activities in the itinerary. Get ready to travel through India like a local, using taxi, train, and bus, but also rickshaw rides and an overnight train trip.Travel documents and useful information1. Visas – UK citizens require a visa to travel to India. Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office. You can easily apply online for an e-visa here: indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa. Carefully check all eligibility criteria. Your e-visa application takes at least 72 hours. Make sure to obtain your visa at least 4 days before arriving in India.2. Passports – You and your family will need passports to travel to India. Please make sure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry to India.
3. Travel insurance – It’s essential that you take out appropriate travel insurance that covers all activities and repatriation where required. Your insurance can also provide a safety net against unforeseen circumstances, like medical emergencies, trip cancellations or lost luggage.4. Vaccinations – Ensure your vaccinations against Tetanus, Infectious Hepatitis, Typhoid, and Polio are up to date. For more information and the latest advice on Malaria, Dengue Fever, and the Zika Virus consult your travel clinic or speak to your GP. Read more about recommended vaccinations here: https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/country/105/indiaMore travel advice and details about entry requirements here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/india/entry-requirements
Kit List- what to pack
Here’s a list of items you’ll need during your trip:Clothing– Comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing (such as cotton, long-sleeved shirts or t-shirts, a hoodie for chilly weather, a waterproof jacket)– A smart set of clothes and shoes, suitable for the hotel– Swimwear– Comfortable footwear (there’ll be plenty of walking while exploring the amazing locations in the itinerary)– Ankle-strap sandals or old trainers for water activities (flip-flops are not suitable for the outdoors)
– A broad-rimmed hat
– SunglassesNote: It’s highly recommended to choose modest attire that covers shoulders and knees. Opting for less revealing clothing is a considerate way to show respect for the local culture and etiquette, allowing you to blend in and enjoy India’s rich culture.There are plenty of spots to shop for affordable clothing in Delhi. However, quality outdoor gear is harder to find, so make sure you don’t leave home without it.Medicine and healthcare– Any necessary personal medication
– Personal first-aid kit (with antiseptic wipes, savlon, plasters, blister kit, painkillers, rehydration sachets, anti allergy medication, lip balm, iodine-based antiseptic, glucose sweets)– Insect repellent (a DEET-based option works best)
– Cream for insect bites– High protection factor sun cream
– Antibacterial gel
– Wet wipes and dry napkins
Documents (read above for more details)– Passports (machine readable)
– Travel visas
– Paper copies of your passport’s relevant pages and your visas
– Vaccination cards– Plane tickets– Travel insurance documentsOthers– A large rucksack for your luggage. We don’t recommend travel cases, as they can be difficult to manoeuvre on trains, buses, or during travel between locations. Make sure to check your airline’s luggage allowance beforehand.– A small backpack to take out when travelling (ideally, 20/25 litres)– Playing cards (useful during long travel times)– A book to donate to the school you’ll visitWeatherYour trip takes place in October; expect highs of about 33°C and lows of 18°C. The weather during this period in Delhi is fairly warm and sunny with low humidity. Check the weather a week before departure for the best accuracy.
How to book your family holiday
1. Check below for your dates and availability
2. Click `Book Now` and then complete the online family booking form
3. Pay a deposit of £200 via our online booking system, a secure way to book online
Alternatively please contact us or call 01384 398 870
What’s included?
- Airport transfers in Delhi (please let us know your flight details in advance)
- Mid-range hotel accommodation in your own family room with en-suite
- 1 nights accommodation on overnight train to Dehradun (2nd class air con- with beds/bedding/privacy curtain)
- Entry to visits that are featured in the holiday itinerary
- White Water Rafting on the River Ganges
- Transport as featured in the itinerary
- Expert Guide
- Breakfast each day
- 1 x lunch (day 6)
- 6 x evening meals
Note: Flights and UK airport transfers are not included.
Himalayan Adventure Gallery, India
Why visit India with Acorn?
Action packed holiday – Travel Old Delhi by rickshaw, raft down the white rapids of the Ganges, visit the Taj Mahal, or follow the footsteps of the Rishikesh pilgrims; all this, and more, in a single trip.
Experience authentic India – Immerse in a new culture by visiting a village school, joining the bustle of the spice markets, travelling like a local with an overnight train, or witnessing a holy festival.
Travel made easy – Benefit from a carefully curated program, designed to give you the best of India.
Great value from just £799pp – The package includes accommodation, most meals, transfer to all activities, and many more. Just pack your bags and let us do the planning for you.
Flexible payment – All that’s needed to book your spot is a £200 deposit; the rest is paid 10 weeks before your trip. You may also pay in instalments using Paypal.
Safe and secure – Every activity will be supervised by one of our accredited, experienced guides. We’ll also tell you all you need to know about travelling India, from what to bring, to what documents you need.
A travel community – Last but not least, you’ll meet other like minded families during your trip with us, all part of the Acorn Family Holidays community.