Highlights of Northern India

6 nights hotels, all en suite, 2 nights air-conditioned sleeper trains Travel by private air-conditioned bus Additional travel by canter, train, rickshaw and boat A fast paced itinerary designed to maximise your experience

We stay in centrally located city hotels (two- or three-star, local rating) that mix heritage and modern styles, plus a jungle hotel in Ranthambore National Park and the overnight sleeper train from Agra to Varanasi. The accommodations typically used can be found on the day-to-day itinerary. However, below are a few of the notable accommodations on this trip. Jaipur: Fort Chandragupt (nights 1-2) In central Jaipur, Fort Chandragupt is a combination of classic heritage with contemporary services and amenities. From the rooftop terrace, take in the view of the Pink City and the Aravalli mountain range where, on a clear day, the Nahargarh Fort can be seen. Staying close to several attractions and transport hubs, we step into the hustle of local people and tourists busily going about their day. Hotel facilities include a swimming pool, several restaurants and a lounge-bar. Ranthambore: Raj Palace (night 3) Within Ranthambore National Park, the Raj Palace is conveniently located so we don’t have far to go in search of tigers and other wildlife. When not in the forest, relax in the pool or just sit in the gardens giving your senses a break, away from the city noise and heat. Agra to Varanasi: Sleeper train (night 5) Experience an icon of travel: the Indian sleeper train! Our journey takes us from Agra to Varanasi, skipping the long drive, while also allowing us to interact with the local people and sample the snacks often sold on board. The accommodation is basic: we normally stay in two-tier sleepers, the compartments sectioned off from the aisle by privacy curtains. Seats are allocated at the time the tickets are issued, so the whole group isn’t always together; however, our tour leader is an expert at making the journey as hassle-free as possible and will regularly check in with you. Worth knowing Please note for Varanasi, standard check-in time at the hotel is 2pm. Early check-in is unfortunately not available to pre-book in advance due to high room occupancy. However, we have a good partnership with the hotel, and they will always endeavour to prioritise rooms for Exodus customers as early as possible on the check-in day. Prior to check-in at Varanasi, the hotel communal areas are available and you may leave your luggage in the hotel until your room is available. Hotels in India usually do not have heating as there are only a couple of months when the weather can get cold. You can, however, request more blankets if needed or the hotel may be able to provide a standing heater for your room. Please talk to your tour leader if you need help in this matter. It’s common for hotels in India to have limited times in the day for hot water use to save energy. If you find your shower is cold, please let your leader or reception know so they can make sure the water heater is on. Sleeper trains are not enclosed compartments, bed bunks are set up within a carriage with curtains for some privacy. Within the sleeper train, you may be sharing a compartment of four beds with members of the public depending on how the seats are allocated. Single accommodation excludes sleeper trains