Delve Deep: Northern India 2023-24

An intoxicating mix of colours, chaos and character – India’s capital is the definition of overwhelming. Lucky you’ve got your Topdeck Rep ready to greet you as soon as you touch down. Welcome to Delhi! Weave through the craziness of cars, rickshaws, scooters and people. Dump your stuff at the hotel. And say g’day to your trip mates. We might be a mixed bunch, but we’re all in it together – the way it was meant to be. Tonight, dinner’s on us so tuck in – this is gonna be a trip to remember.

Ready to delve deeper into this energetic city? We thought so. First: a walking tour through Old Delhi – ticking off the likes of Jama Masjid mosque (the largest in India, just sayin’) and bustling Khari Baoli spice market. Then, we’ll give the legs a rest and jump aboard an exciting (nail-biting) cycle rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk market. Later, we’re off to check out the mesmerising Qutub Minar – the tallest brick minaret in the world. What you do tonight is totally up to you, but if you need suggestions Connaught Place is THE place for delicious street food. Tikka roll, anyone?

Leave the hectic streets of Delhi behind as we make tracks for magical Agra. Channel your inner Maharajah as we explore Agra Fort with our expert Trip Leader. There’s a reason this red-washed fortress is considered one of the finest in India – soak it alllll in. Then: time to satisfy your inner foodie with an optional chaat crawl. Chaat got you WTF-ing? Just think: savoury street snacks, deep fried to deliciousness and topped with tangy sauces. It’s fast food – just spicier. Still hungry? Get the gang together to hunt down the city’s best paratha. Your Trip Leader will know where.

This is it. That goosebump-generating moment that you’ll remember for a lifetime. Watch as the dawn light illuminates the famous Taj Mahal with a spellbinding golden glow and take a moment – yep, you’re actually here. Once you’ve soaked up all the wanderlust vibes it’s onwards to Chand Baori Stepwell. Like one giant stairmaster, this baby is the largest stepwell in the world – with 13 stories made up of 3,500 steps arranged in perfect symmetry. This arvo we’ll roll into the ‘Pink City’, where an optional cooking class with a local family is on the cards, if you’re keen. Rather explore Jaipur solo? Hire a tuk-tuk and immerse yourself in this dazzling city by night.

Another day, another amazing ancient fortress to explore. We’ll take a 4x4 jeep through the winding alleyways to the gates of Amber Fort, before discovering the extensive complex of colourful rooms and lush courtyards with our in-the-know Trip Leader. After, the afternoon is free to do your own spontaneous this-is-what-I-came-here-for thing. Check out the incredible Hawa Mahal – hint: get the best photo from the cafe/tattoo parlour opposite. Show off your Grade A bartering technique (or not) at Johari Bazaar. Or sample some authentic Rajasthani food at Thali House. Then? We’re hitting the cinema – Bollywood style! *Heads up! If you’re here for Holi festival in March we’ll celebrate the REAL way – taking part in rituals, street festivals and colour-filled parties. There’s also an extra included lunch in store on this day. We’ll work the sightseeing around the festivities, don’t worry.

Disclaimer: today has an early wake up call. BUT we’re gonna feel like proper locals taking the train from the ‘Pink City’ to the ‘Blue City’ (feeling a theme here?). So, pull out the UNO cards or catch up on some zzzs – we’ll be there in no time. First up: the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort. Towering over the old city, Mehrangarh was chiseled from the rocky cliff face where it stands. Sick, right? Later, explore the tangle of blue cube houses, winding medieval streets and buzzing bazaars in the Old Town, before tucking into dinner overlooking the fort lit up like Christmas. This is livin’.

After breakfast, give a silent salute to Jodhpur as we roll onto Udaipur. But first: a pit stop at Ranakpur. Home to one of the most significant Jain temples in India, you’re gonna want your cameras charged for this one. Once you’re done gawping like a loon at the intricate geometric patterns of the temple pillars we’ll move on. Tonight, this beautiful lakeside city is yours for the taking. Wander the city’s romantic centre and discover why they call this place the ‘Jewel of Rajasthan’. Head to Millets of Mewar for their drool-worthy aubergine (eggplant) curry. Then, gather the fam and hunt down a local bar with views over the lake.

Say namaste to a full day uncovering the magic of this place. Kick things off with an optional yoga class to align those chakras. Then we’ll explore Udaipur’s quaint crooked streets and colourful bazaars with our fact-filled Trip Leader, ticking off the likes of Jagdish Temple and City Palace. Later: we’ll set sail on super-scenic Lake Pichola for a sunset cruise. And once night has fallen, it’s time to head to a local eatery for our final group dinner. What. A. Day.

Nobody panic, but this is our last full day together. So don’t waste a second. FORTunately (we went there) there’s an optional day trip to Kumbhalgarh Fort on offer. Snaking its way around the surrounding hills, this immense 15th-century fortress has earned the nickname ‘the Great Wall of India’. Or soak up all the tranquil rural vibes on an optional cycling tour through Udaipur’s neighbouring villages – complete with sunrise over the lake and a piping cup of roadside chai. Mmm. And for lunch? If you’ve stuck around the city it’s DIY time as we learn how to rustle up some authentic Udaipuri dishes at an included cooking class. Those mad chef skills are sure gonna come in useful back home. Tonight: we’re jumping on the sleeper train back to electrifying Delhi. Shotgun top bunk!

You came. You saw. You cultured. Hop off the train and swap those socials – you’re gonna need them for next year’s reunion trip. Sticking around? We don’t blame you. This place is filled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Or: jump straight on a Delve Deep trip to Sri Lanka – it works out perfectly, we checked. You know you want to...