India school trip · 11 days
Culture, Adventure and Religion
Discover Sikh and Tibetan culture, hike in the Himalayas and raft the Ganges before visiting the Taj Mahal on an Indian adventure.
About this trip
India is a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, adventure, and spirituality—so rich and diverse that even a lifetime wouldn’t be enough to experience it all. Every corner of this incredible country offers something unique, from its colourful traditions, to its deeply rooted heritage. On this unforgettable journey, we’ll explore iconic cultural landmarks in Agra, Delhi, and Amritsar. We will also step beyond the usual sights to embrace thrilling experiences like trekking and whitewater rafting. It’s the perfect blend of discovery and adventure, giving us a deeper, more dynamic way to connect with one of the world’s most captivating destinations.
Trip highlights
- Amritsar and the Golden Temple
- Tibetan culture in Dharamshala
- Himalayan hike to Gunna Devi Temple
- Ganges rafting and Indian cooking
- The Taj Mahal
Your recommended itinerary, with the meals included on each day.
- 1
Day 1
Depart UK and Arrive Delhi
Meal included: dinner
Arrive in Delhi, we are met by our STC Leader and board the buses into the city. We take in the spacious, garden city with tree‑lined roads. We have the rest of the day to adjust to our new surroundings and get over the long journey.
- 2
Day 2
Delhi to Amritsar
All meals included
Today we travel by train to Amritsar and visit the Golden Temple, experiencing the spiritual heart of Sikhism and its serene atmosphere.
- 3
Day 3
Amritsar to Dharamshala
All meals included
After breakfast at the hotel, we drive into the Himalayas to Dharamshala and explore Tibetan culture through visits to Norbulingka, the Tibetan Museum and St. John’s Church.
- 4
Day 4
Dharamshala Hike and Nature
All meals included
We put on our hiking shoes today and enjoy a guided hike through cedar forests to Gunna Devi Temple, taking in Himalayan scenery and views of the Dhauladhar range.
- 5
Day 5
Dharamshala to Pathankot and Overnight Train
All meals included
Today we continue our trek and descent to Pathankot. Here we will board an overnight train to Rishikesh. An experience that cannot be missed.
- 6
Day 6
Arrive Rishikesh Camp
All meals included
On arrival in Rishikesh we settle into our riverside adventure camp, followed by zip‑lining over the Ganges and an evening Aarti ceremony.
- 7
Day 7
White Water Rafting and Cooking
All meals included
We spend a full day of white‑water rafting on the Ganges, followed by a hands‑on Indian cooking session at camp.
- 8
Day 8
Rafting, Yoga and Camp
All meals included
This morning we begin the day with a riverside yoga session. This will be followed by further rafting adventures, before ending the day with a bonfire and BBQ at camp.
- 9
Day 9
Rishikesh to Haridwar to Delhi
All meals included
We bid goodbye to Rishikesh this morning and travel to Delhi by train. We have some time in the afternoon to explore some of the main attractions in Delhi, with our STC Leader on hand to teach us about the history and local customs.
- 10
Day 10
Day Trip to Agra
All meals included
We visit the jewel in the crown today, the Taj Mahal! We make the return journey from Delhi to Agra by bus, before enjoying our final dinner in India.
- 11
Day 11
Depart from Delhi
Meal included: breakfast
On our final day in India, we transfer to the airport in time for our international flight back to the UK. The rest of our day's plan will depend on the time of our departure flight.
Itineraries can change with the seasons, local conditions and your group's needs. Ask us and we'll tailor it.
Questions teachers ask about this trip
How long is this itinerary? The suggested itinerary is 11 days.Does the itinerary include rafting? We spend a full day of white‑water rafting on the Ganges, followed by a hands‑on Indian cooking session at camp.