Activities available on this holiday
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.
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.
Activities
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.
Accommodation
Where you’ll be staying
Your adventures throughout India will cover three different destinations. For each of them, accommodation is provided.
Your 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.
Your 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.
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.
Similarly 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.
Your 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.
Your 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.
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.
Similarly 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.
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
Dates Prices & Travel
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
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
- 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.
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
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.
