As a country of cultural beauty and vibrant character, India has become one of the most desirable destinations of recent times to travel and volunteer. Its sheer size, dynamic and hospitable population, and fascinating scenery and wildlife combine to form the mystical and magnificent land that it is today.
With such a wide variety of excursions, activities and trips available in India it can be a little daunting deciding on the best and most suitable choice for you. That’s why the India Road Trip is ideal for the traveller looking to experience as much of India as possible in a short space of time!
On this road trip of a lifetime you’ll learn about the country and its people, the language and food, the wildlife and the environment, before exploring the rich cultural heritage of India, with visits to historically and culturally significant sites.
You will then be given the opportunity to trek through the jungle, enjoying the excitement of Indian luscious forests and its jungle inhabitants, before relaxing on the beach for a week and watching the days roll lazily past. This journey will ensure you get the most out of your time in India with a wide range of experiences. You’re sure to return with a multitude of memories that will remain with you forever!
WHAT DOES THE PROJECT DO?
This amazing action packed tour will give you an incredible opportunity to experience the best bits of the Asian subcontinent, intermixing a period of worthwhile volunteering with world famous cultural sites, jungle treks, beach time, chaotic markets, mountain foothills and desert landscapes. This once in a lifetime cultural immersion and adventure tour in this charismatic spiritual country is not to be missed!
Throughout the trip you will be travelling as part of a group, sharing unforgettable experiences as your senses awaken to the sights, sounds and smells of India.
WHAT WILL I BE DOING?
FIRST LEG - NEW DELHI AND AGRA
Your first week on the project is designed to give you an opportunity to adjust to the Indian way of life and explore the history and culture of India, with visits to local sites of special interest, starting at India’s capital city; New Delhi. Friendly representatives will take you on an exciting city tour which includes the chance to see the unique parts of the city. Following this wonderful opportunity to fully immerse yourself in your new surroundings, the briefing for your imminent adventure will begin. You’ll be feeling happy and confident to explore the intricate beauty of India!
You’ll also be given language classes, an introduction to haggling at the local markets, cooking classes, and a thorough insight into Indian history / culture / religion, giving you a deeper understanding of this incredible and vibrant country. You will then visit Agra; home of the famous Taj Mahal, where you will have plenty of time to explore and become captivated by its inspiring atmosphere, no visit to India is complete without visiting this monument of love!
SECOND LEG - HIMACHAL PRADESH
Continue your adventure by visiting the foothills of the Himalayas in Shimla; a beautiful town high up in the mountains with spectacular views. Here you could volunteer on some amazing community projects and work with some genuinely heart-warming people. Following your rewarding volunteer experience you can enjoy a fascinating 3 day trek and visit to Tattapani, a village located along the banks of the Holy River Sutlej - a major Hindu pilgrimage centre; celebrated for its revitalising hot water springs along its banks!
For those interested in spirituality and Buddhism, there is a unique opportunity to visit Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj – the home of the Dalai Lama. Here, you will spend a couple of days visiting monasteries and learning about the captivating traditions of Tibetan culture.
THIRD LEG - RAJASTHAN, UDAIPUR, AND MOUNT ABU
Now it’s time to head on and explore Rajasthan. Here, you’ll visit Udaipur the city of Lakes, with its amazing architecture, before enjoying a short weekend visit to Mount Abu, acknowledged as being the ‘oasis’ of Rajasthan. Mount Abu, also known as Abu Parvat in the local language, is home to cascading waterfalls, lakes, rivers and lush evergreen forests. If that’s not enough you’ll also go on to do a 2 day camel safari in the desert, ensuring that you see both sides of the natural beauty in Rajasthan, in a way which is both exciting and traditional.
FOURTH LEG - 10 DAYS IN GOA
The final leg of your journey will give you the opportunity to volunteer in a range of projects which include a women’s shelter, an array of orphanages, medical projects, teaching (this option incorporates work at both local primary and nursery schools), elders care and some environmental projects.
What better way to round up your adventure than by hitting the stunning beaches of Northern Goa, where you will spend a weekend at the world famous Anjuna beach, noted for its lively alternative markets. On Saturday, you can pay a visit to the Ingo Market, which is characteristically jam-packed with an array of high-quality products in an assortment of diverse shops. With its colourful food stalls and freshly-cooked traditional Tibetan dishes, this weekend market is a must see - the perfect way to end this breath taking trip of a life time!
