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India

Highlights of India: Discover Delhi, Agra, Jaipur & Varanasi

Program No. 22519RJ
Watch the sun rise over the Taj Mahal, experience the Ganges River and its spiritual meaning and much more on this immersion into the history and culture of India.
Participant Reviews
5
Based on 55 Reviews
SHOWING
Celia – Class of 2025 | Kernersville, NC
I had given a review earlier after the trip (survey I think it was), but I am happy to give another one. The whole trip was a complete life changing experience for me. The total in the group was just enough people - 22. Everyone in the group was kind and easy to meet and talk to. And all of us were solo travelers which made it much easier. Our group guide Dheerendra Singh was absolutely 200% in edible in every which way! He was so professional, smart, kind and funny. I can’t believe we got thr best guide one could ever ask for! Even though the pace was quite fast, no one complained (such a nice thing!) and we all helped each other and the group was able to all move at the same pace. The beautiful temples and mosques and museums we saw were all so exquisite and meeting families in their homes was also a special touch. The hotels and meals were fabulous and all of the check-in and checkouts were seamless for us. Seeing the Taj twice was also very exciting! I couldn’t get enough of India and I’ll be back one day. I cannot say enough great things about this trip!!
— Review left July 9, 2025
Deborah – Class of 2024 | Edina, MN
The Highlights of India: Discover Delhi, Agra, Jaipur & Varanasi Road Scholar Solo Travelers trip this past March 2025 was outstanding. We had an excellent guide, Singh, and our group of 22 bonded and shared so many wonderful adventures together. This is one of the best trips I have ever taken! Thank you, Road Scholar!
— Review left April 6, 2025
Agostina – Class of 2025 | Pittsburgh, PA
I encourage anyone who has considered taking a tour of India's "Golden Triangle" to sign up for the Road Scholar "Highlights" tour.
— Review left April 2, 2025
Page – Class of 2017 | Pahoa, HI
Please pull my review out of the extensive comments I have already made. this was a utterly fabulous tour and I would highly encourage others to take this trip.
— Review left March 26, 2025
Steve – Class of 2025 | Apple Valley, MN
Excellent program and terrific for me as a Solo Traveler. Our Guide, Singh, was excellent in every way. The places we visited were exceptional as was the food and the accommodations. I highly recommend this program.
— Review left March 25, 2025
Maria – Class of 2025 | Brea, CA
What a fun and educational travel experience! Covered a lot of ground within a short time. Will explore India even more sooner than later.
— Review left March 25, 2025
Maureen | Plymouth, MA
I waited for years to visit India, so I did an extensive search on programs. Road Scholar fits the bill perfectly.
— Review left March 24, 2025
Alison – Class of 2015 | Orinda, CA
5 Star Northern India trip I was on the solo trip from March 12-23. It should be noted that this is the last India trip scheduled until October because the weather is getting too hot. Consider taking this trip in Feb for cooler weather. I feel the “ Let’s Go” rating for the trip is not based on the distance or difficulty of walking but rather it is based on long days that may start at 5 am and end at 9 pm with heat that can sap your energy. I was concerned about getting sick with GI issues on the trip, but I did not. I drank solely from sealed water bottles, never had ice in a drink, ate only peeled fruits and cooked vegetables, and brushed my teeth with bottled water.Bottled water is made available to you on every bus ride and in every hotel. It helps if you really like Indian food. If you don’t, be prepared for a very carb loaded diet of rice, noodles, potatoes and bread. The experiences on this trip will stay with you for a lifetime- it really is exploring a different culture with both famous sites like the Taj Mahal and places you have never seen before. Absolutely worth doing. Things to know: Bring mosquito repellent and a long sleeved shirt or sweater for both mosquitoes and cold airplanes. Bring a bathing suit for the really lovely pools at both the Trident in Agra and the beautiful ITC in Jaipur. You will end the tour at approximately 6 pm in Delhi after flying from Varanasi. If your plane home is 1am or later, consider staying at the Holiday Inn Express at the airport so you can shower and rest before the long slog home. Despite what the online info about the hotel says, you don’t need a boarding pass or checked luggage to check in. Just a printed itinerary of the flight
— Review left March 24, 2025
Steven – Class of 2019 | San Diego, CA
For a solo traveler this is the best way to see the important sites of the Golden Triangle.
— Review left March 24, 2025
This participant did not give a star rating.
Lesa – Class of 2025 | Everett, PA
We had a wonderful time! What an interesting and beautiful country. Our guide was a wealth of information and brought the country alive for us. Everything went off without a hitch thanks to his careful planning. He went over the top for us!
— Review left March 14, 2025
Pamela – Class of 2023 | Pittsburgh, PA
My trip to northern India through Road Scholar was a once in a lifetime experience. I wouldn't change a thing!
— Review left February 27, 2025
Julie – Class of 2024 | Albuquerque, NM
If you're interested in moving out of your comfort zone while feeling cared for, go. Colors, sights, sounds, friendliness of people are all amazing. Love Indian food? Just wait. You'll taste spices you have never experienced before. If you're lucky enough to have Shailesh as your leader, you are in great hands.
— Review left February 19, 2025
Frank – Class of 2024 | San Jose, CA
It's hard to imagine a better introduction to the richness of Indian culture than what this tour provided. I feel enriched and much more knowledgeable about one of the most important countries in the world. My horizons have expanded thanks to what I experienced on this trip.
— Review left February 18, 2025
Sandra – Class of 2024 | Sandy, UT
The sights, the sounds, the people, the culture, and the spirituality flowing through India all captured my heart and soul during this journey of discovery. Our guide, Singh, brought it all to life with his knowledge and passion for telling the story of the country he grew up in and where he is now raising his own family. Our travels exposed us to what I called "an assault on the senses," but it was a powerful and emotional assault, not a violent one. I learned so much and grew so much thanks to our guide and some of my fellow travelers who themselves came from places across the United States and Europe. I would recommend this trip to anyone who wants to experience a country and a people unlike any others I have visited in my 60+ years here on earth.
— Review left February 17, 2025
Julie – Class of 2025 | Paris, France
If you have ever hesitated about traveling to India because everyone tells you it's too overwhelming, I recommend the Highlights of India tour. You will be inspired and amazed, your adrenaline will increase sometimes, and you will eat some of the best food you have ever had. I will never forget this amazing experience and all that I learned. I'll be back!
— Review left January 27, 2025
Rhonda – Class of 2024 | Long Beach, CA
Amazing experience in highlights of India. It moved at an easy to handle but steady pace. We were introduced to India's history, culture, and people. What a magical adventure.
— Review left January 26, 2025
Linda | Midlothian, VA
A program full of interesting sight and insights from dawn to after dusk. I experienced new worlds full of color, mystery, and warmth that I am taking home to influence my life and what I’ve learned is my small corner of this earth. The world is indeed bigger after experiencing India on this trip.
— Review left November 27, 2024
Robert – Class of 2023 | Portland, OR
Excellent trip. Great itinerary and staff. The group leader was a joy to travel with.
— Review left November 16, 2024
James – Class of 2022 | Steamboat Springs, CO
India is a country to put on your bucket list. Be aware, however, that the flight to Dehli is very long, there are 2 five-hour bus rides, 2 additional fights, and some very early morning activities. But it is worth it. The Taj Majal is spectacular and the Gangi River experience is something you will never forget. The traffic in India will make you glad you are a passenger.
— Review left November 14, 2024
Kimberly – Class of 2022 | Cedar City, UT
Excellent program. India is a unique, diverse and wonderful country to visit. Group leader Jayanta Kar was a superb guide and added to my enjoyment of the program.
— Review left November 10, 2024
Karen – Class of 2024 | Sierra Vista, AZ
This trip exceeded my expectations. Accomodations were outstanding and that is not a requirement for myself. Cultural activities were exactly what I would choose. My room mate was very comfortable and nice to be around. India is one country that I can't get enough information and experience with, so fascinating with all of the complexities. The people are outstanding and cordial.
— Review left July 21, 2024
This participant did not give a star rating.
Mauro – Class of 2023 | Hanford, CA
This trip to India is amazing. The itinerary is full of experiences. So many sights and sounds and smells and tastes. The people are kind and generous. Old and new - high and low- quiet and loud. Rashid our tour guide was excellent and offered us an insight to the Indian culture. He answered all of our questions. Our hotels were beautiful. If you have an adventure in mind -then this is the journey for you.
— Review left April 26, 2024
John – Class of 2019 | Berkeley, CA
This was an excellent cultural introduction to Northern India, and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to open a window to that part of the world.
— Review left April 19, 2024
Laurie | Greensboro, NC
I recommend this program highly. It is truly life-changing in the best possible way. India is the most interesting countryI've ever visited.
— Review left March 20, 2024
This participant did not give a star rating.
Anna – Class of 2010 | Unionville, CT
Highly recommend. Hotel , Guides , food, transportation , places of visit were excellent.
— Review left March 5, 2024
Mary – Class of 2008 | Mount Sinai, NY
Loved the program and the participants. Wished we visited Ranthambhore National Park rather than go to markets. Maybe one less home visit? All in all, a beautiful learning adventure with fun and interesting people.Thank you, again,, Jay, for all your care and concern Mary Ellen
— Review left March 1, 2024
This participant did not give a star rating.
Joan – Class of 2022 | Trenton, NJ
India is vast and its culture so very different from western life. It is also endowed with thousands of years of history and the monuments that tell that story. We visited religious sites, Ghandi's last home, forts and palaces and of course, the Taj Mahal, which was the fulfillment of a dream for me. There were lectures on religion, history, politics and women's issues to give context to what we were seeing. We were surrounded by poverty, but also witnessed the government's efforts to combat it. There are long bus rides involved but the time passes quickly when you have a guide like Ritu Sharma, who could not do enough for us and who is the reason the group bonded the way it did and things ran as smoothly as they did. She is knowledgeable, professional, a good storyteller and a joy to be around. The hotels were comfortable and the food in all of them, and the restaurants we visited, was excellent. We also had dinner with local families and were able to experience Indian culture on a personal level. When you see a camel and an elephant being ridden down the main street of Jaipur you know you're not in Kansas anymore :-). Just go - you will never regret it - and hope that Ritu is your group leader.
— Review left February 28, 2024
Cynthia – Class of 2023 | Jacksonville, FL
My friend and I were already seasoned travelers in countries of diverse cultures. Due to the vastness and complexities of nativgating India, we chose Road Scholars. From the beginning, the interaction with our tour guide was trusting and helpful. The way he conducted the trip showed expertize, empathy, and lots of humor. The places that were chosen were perfect for a survey trip. The accomodations were exquisite... Maybe u necessarily so. Some folks thought shopping was too much, some thought it was too little, but that difference is to be expected. India is hard due to the poverty, but our guide approaches the subject with realism and empathy.
— Review left February 26, 2024
Laura – Class of 2024 | Napa, CA
We had an incredible first trip to India through Road Scholar. Our 10 days through Northern India (wish we had done the whole of India trip, which was sold out) could not have been better, due to the educational nature of the trip and exceptionally knowledgeable guide, Ritu Sharma, who infused the visits to sacred sites and monuments with information about the religions, local customs, family life and more. This cultural trip had wonderful lectures with local experts in each place, where we also visited families in their homes to experience how people live and discuss life and politics. This was my first RS trip and I took my adult daughter. It was wonderful having everything arranged for us - we just had to show up and enjoy everything. The group had interesting people; lots of teachers and experienced travelers. The hotels were all very nice - we particularly liked the Trident hotels (Oberoi Group). The included hotel meals were buffets which offered a wide selection, including continental options. We particularly enjoyed the restaurant meals with the group and would have liked them also offered on the few “nights off”. We can’t wait to go back to India and will definitely travel with Road Scholar again.
— Review left February 21, 2024
Judith – Class of 2022 | Columbus, OH
I’ve been fortunate to be able to travel to many places—however India now is ranked the top trip of my life! So grateful for Dheerendra Nathawat for all he did to provide knowledge, adventure and excitement…and safety.
— Review left January 30, 2024
Fakhruddin – Class of 2018 | Evanston, IL
This yatra (journry) was a pilgrimage for me that raised my understanding of myself and my roots.
— Review left January 30, 2024
Cynthia – Class of 2019 | Georgetown, TX
The Highlights of India Program was a fantastic way to get a glimpse of some of the main attractions in India. The mix of historical sites, cultural experiences, and educational programs was just right to get some insight into this vibrant and fascinating country. Our guide (Anurag Srivastava) exhibited a vast depth of knowledge and his passion for his country and his skilled 'storytelling' made India truly come alive. Even the 'organized chaos' of the streets was enlightening. If you want to see a piece of India, I highly recommend this program.
— Review left November 27, 2023
This participant did not give a star rating.
Linda – Class of 2022 | St Augustine, FL
This was everything and more that I wanted from this adventure. The group was congenial; our guide Anurag Sreivastava was outstanding. He seemed to deeply care that the group not only enjoyed every minute of our time in India but his desire was to give us detailed knowledge of the culture, history and peoples of North India. He went truly out of his way to satisfy all our wishes and answered any questions or concerns that arose. He encouraged our questions. The sites that were chosen for the tour were excellent and equally as enjoyable were the visits to private homes to know people more intimately than just passing or observing them on the street. Since we visited during Diwali time it was especially meaningful. I have forever wanted to see the Taj Mahal and that wish was granted and was most definitely a highlight. I have to say however that I found the visit to Varanasi the most fascinating of the whole trip. The Ganges and seeing the cremations and the people coming to the river to bathe was phenomenal! It was so colorful and I felt like I was in the midst of the activities, yet viewing it in a relaxed situation on the boat ride. If I had any complaint with this trip, it would NOT be the itinerary or the guide - both couldn't have been better. I had some dissatisfaction with the travel agency who booked me originally very poorly and then when I sought to correct it, I was "fined" $200. I live near the Jacksonville, FL airport but was supposed to find my way to Miami then to NJ and then to New Dehli - furthermore they seem somewhat perturbed to make this correction and were not at all helpful in upgrading my seat. I have traveled extensively for work and pleasure and have never encountered this attitude. They seemed too busy and annoyed at the inconvenience they felt they were encountering. I look forward however to travel with Road Scholar again as the trip as a whole was outstanding!
— Review left November 24, 2023
Carl – Class of 2020 | Trabuco Canyon, CA
If you want to be immersed in the culture of old and new India, see and experience all you think you want, and then discover you get so much more than this, then this is the tour for you. Road Scholar has outdone itself in organizing this tour to provide an amazing experience and then hired an outstanding tour guide/presenter/mentor to do the job. Anurag guided and delivered more than just a learning event, he delivered the expertise, knowledge, depth, and insight to make this tour a truly transformational experience.
— Review left November 18, 2023
Randall – Class of 2023 | Newland, NC
I enjoyed every moment of this trip. The highlights for me were visiting Gandhi's home, seeing the Taj Mahal, visiting the Bodi tree and a boat ride on the Ganges River. The trip was organized, fun and informative. Anurag was an excellent guide!
— Review left November 16, 2023
Patrice – Class of 2014 | Lititz, PA
I just returned from the Highlights of India trip. It was such a fantastic experience, even more than I expected. Our guide, Anurag, was phenomenal. He was with us from arrival to departure, and took care of every single detail. We were in very good hands. Before I left for the trip, I had some concerns about drinking water and spicy food. This wasn’t a problem at all. There was ample bottled water provided on the bus and in all hotels and restaurants. Some of the food was spicy, but there were always many options of non-spicy foods too. A highlight for me was visiting in peoples’ homes, and we had several opportunities to do that. Visiting Varanasi and witnessing Hindu religious rituals along the Ganges from a boat was amazing. I now wish I had gone on the longer trip to India.
— Review left November 14, 2023
Bess – Class of 2023 | Red Lodge, MT
The Highlights of India trip is a lot of fun plus informative, with a wide variety of activities.
— Review left November 13, 2023
Stephen – Class of 2019 | Georgetown, TX
This was an excellent program for the experienced traveler. If you are up for an adventure, this is an excellent opportunity.I feel that this program would be difficult for the casual tourist.
— Review left November 13, 2023
Cynthia – Class of 2022 | Sacramento, CA
This was an incredible trip. Our tour leader Jay was extremely well educated, patient and personable. The variety of activities was excellent. Hotels and food exceptional. Really enjoyed home visits and shopping!
— Review left November 11, 2023
Karen – Class of 1995 | Pittsburgh, PA
This was a fabulous program with a great guide best I’ve ever had on an overseas program. It is well worth your time and money. Great experience. Karen
— Review left October 23, 2023
Patti – Class of 2019 | Clinton, MI
Road Scholar is a program created for people who want to do more than look out a bus window, staying at nondescript hotels filled with other Americans, visiting castle after cathedral after museum. Stopping periodically to take some photos. People who choose Road Scholar want to meet locals, learn some history, eat in local restaurants, experience the local culture and travel with smaller groups guided by a professional local who is well versed in all aspects of his/her country and likes being with people.
— Review left April 13, 2020
Jeffery – Class of 2020 | Greenville, NC
Our group leader, Prakash Detha, was amazing. You are very fortunate to have with with your organization. You should know this is the first time I've ever taken a group tour. I'm more of a DIY kinda guy and have felt comfortable navigating around Europe as a solo traveler. Prakash was attentive to our needs both individually and as a group, informative about his country and culture, empathetic to the specific requests by individuals, and very personable. His attention to detail and availability as a group leader went far above what I would have considered sufficient. In short, he went out of his way to make this trip such a success. He is a valuable asset to RS.
— Review left March 19, 2020
Barbro – Class of 2020 | Chico, CA
The Highlights of India program is a brief and amazing glimpse of India. I thoroughly enjoyed this trip. The sights are fantastic! Seeing the Taj Mahal, Jaipur, also called the Pink city with all the palaces and of course the River Ganga is very thrilling. The accommodations surpassed my expectations and the food was excellent. It is a programs that gives a lot of value for the money you spend!
— Review left March 19, 2020
Theotis – Class of 2020 | Westbury, NY
This 12-day outing is a real educational and cultural treat. We not only saw the sights but also had the chance to meet with local hosts in their gracious homes. After moving constantly through the day, we get to relax in luxurious hotels with like-minded fellow travelers. If you can do it, do it.
— Review left January 27, 2020
Ann – Class of 2015 | Kerrville, TX
One of the best Road Scholar trips I have taken!! Great group leader, wonderful experiences, great food!!
— Review left January 26, 2020
Richard – Class of 2015 | Kerrville, TX
This is a wonderful program! Our group leader was superb, and helped us see things that we would never have been able to see on our own. In Delhi, we worked in a Sikh community kitchen; in Agra, we explored the Taj Mahal; in Jaipur, we visited the Red Fort; and in Varanasi, we heard a master sitar player and floated on the Ganges for evening and morning ceremonies.
— Review left January 25, 2020
Antoine – Class of 2014 | Rockville, MD
After my now 5th Road Scholar program, I cannot come up with one that did not meet my expectations; in fact everyone was beyond, especially Group Leader Knowledge and Hotel Accommodations with their variety of food choices Antoine K.
— Review left December 8, 2019
Keith – Class of 2019 | Brooklyn, NY
An excellent program.Instructor with comprehensive knowledge of the subject matter in addition to excellent program management skills. Program highly recommended.
— Review left November 26, 2019
Allen – Class of 2019 | Olympia, WA
Highlights of India (including the camel festival at Pushkar) introduced us to unique architecture, fabulous food, an array of religions, and the many sights, sounds, and smells of everyday life. Visiting families in their homes was a special treat and we left India reluctantly, wishing to learn more!
— Review left November 18, 2019
Anatoliy – Class of 2014 | Bronx, NY
India is a fascinating country. It will not leave you indifferent. Just go there with the Road Scholar.
— Review left November 18, 2019
Burton – Class of 2019 | Glenview, IL
This trip was amazing - probably the best trip I have evert taken in my lifetime. The tour leader, Sandeep, was very knowledgeable, interesting, and informative. He worked with our small group to ensure we develped a great understanding of India. This is a memorable trip that I would recommend in the highest possible terms.
— Review left November 15, 2019
Rose – Class of 2017 | Arlington, MA
This was an intense and immersive experience in Indian culture that I will never forget.
— Review left March 19, 2019
Taylor – Class of 2017 | Cambridge, MA
This program was truly the experience of a lifetime for me. Our Group Leader was so kind and knowledgeable and the educational content was exceptional. Go on this program if you have an open mind and are ready for an adventure.
— Review left February 27, 2019
Greta – Class of 2018 | Toronto, Canada
Highlights of India, exceeded all my expectations, I would urge anyone to try it. The sights, sounds, beauty etc. that we encountered were overwhelming. So very glad I got to do it. A trip of a lifetime.
— Review left February 24, 2019
Winifred – Class of 2019 | Easton, PA
An excellent tour! It truly exceeded my expectations in every way.
— Review left January 30, 2019