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Quiet country lanes in Rajasthan - North India Adventure, India
Quiet country lanes in Rajasthan  | Richard I'Anson
Agra's iconic Taj Mahal is a must see for any visitor to India - North India Adventure, India
Agra's iconic Taj Mahal is a must see for any visitor to India  | Richard I'Anson
The impressive Jaisalmer Fort at sunset - North India Adventure, India
The impressive Jaisalmer Fort at sunset  | Richard I'Anson
A line of camels used for transport around the Thar Desert near Jaisalmer, Northern India - North India Adventure, India
A line of camels used for transport around the Thar Desert near Jaisalmer, Northern India  | David Lazar
Musician at Jaisalmer Fort - North India Adventure, India
Musician at Jaisalmer Fort  | Richard I'Anson
Palace of the Winds, Jaipur - North India Adventure, India
Palace of the Winds, Jaipur  | Richard I'Anson

North India Adventure

Breathtaking monuments complimented with leisurely cycling

India
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 14 reviews

15 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: NIA
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 15 Days
Activities
  • 3 day cycle
Style
  • In Comfort Adventures  
Accommodation
  • 13 nights hotel
  • 1 nights desert camp
Meals
  • 4 Dinners
  • 4 Lunches
  • 14 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
3 / 10

Introductory

Carbon Footprint  

64kg of CO2-e PP per day

(899kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • An unsurpassed adventure through the cultural heart of Rajasthan
  • Cycle along the backroads of rural India from Bikaner to Nokhra
  • Experience a safari camp deep in the Thar desert
  • Explore the walled city of Jaisalmer
  • Experience the historic cities of Jodphur and Jaipur
  • View the Taj Mahal at sunrise
  • Stay in heritage hotels, comfortable desert camps and simple resorts steeped in nature

Overview

There is no better way to experience the diversity of rural India than by cycling. Beginning in Bikaner, we travel through quiet desert landscapes and traditional villages, gaining an authentic insight into daily life in Rajasthan. We visit the historic cities of Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and Jaipur, exploring their impressive forts, palaces, and bustling bazaars. The cycling route follows mostly flat terrain, with a support vehicle provided throughout for convenience and comfort. The journey concludes in Agra, where we visit the Taj Mahal, one of the world’s most celebrated monuments.

Itinerary

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On arrival, you will be met by our representative and transferred to the group hotel The Metropolitan, New Delhi. The remainder of the day is at leisure. A trip briefing will be held with your guide at the hotel around 5pm. Overnight: The Metropolitan Hotel or similar

Meals: Nil

This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bikaner. On arrival, transfer to your hotel. Founded in 1488 by Rao Bika, a Rathore prince from Jodhpur, Bikaner has a rich history as an important centre on ancient trade routes linking Central Asia and Europe. The city’s spiritual origins are attributed to Goddess Karni Mata, who is believed to have blessed its founding. Historically, Bikaner prospered through agriculture and wool trading, once hosting the largest wool market in Asia. Today, tourism also plays a major role in the city’s economy. The afternoon is free to explore the city at your own pace, followed by a relaxed evening at the heritage hotel. Overnight: Cavalry Villa or similar. Please note the luggage allowance for the flight is 15kg per person checked luggage and 7kg hand luggage. Additional luggage can be purchased at approx INR700 per kg or excess luggage can be stored in the hotel in Delhi.

Meals: B

After breakfast, set out on a guided exploration of Junagarh Fort, an impressive stronghold built in 1589. Constructed from striking red sandstone, the fort houses a collection of elegant palaces and temples, including Phool Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Anup Mahal, Gaj Mandir, Ganga Niwas, and Har Mandir. Inside, admire an extraordinary display of royal artifacts—elephant howdahs, World War–era firearms, a De Havilland DH.9 biplane, and finely crafted traditional weapons. Continue with a combined tuk-tuk and walking tour through Bikaner’s atmospheric old city, often called the City of Havelis. Stroll past more than a thousand exquisitely carved mansions adorned with intricate frescoes and gilded interiors, each telling a story of the city’s prosperous past. Visit the remarkable Bhandasar Jain Temple, renowned for its unique construction using over 80,000 litres of ghee instead of water in its mortar. Enjoy lunch at a local city restaurant before transferring to Raisar, where you’ll check in to a luxury desert camp nestled in the heart of the Thar Desert. enjoy a village visit to a cultural performance featuring live folk music and dance beneath the desert stars. Overnight: Raisar Desert Camp (or similar)

Meals: B,L,D

This morning, return to Bikaner for some leisurely shopping and optional sightseeing in the bustling old city, where vibrant markets overflow with traditional textiles, handicrafts, and jewellery. In the afternoon, visit the fascinating National Research Centre on Camels, home to more than 300 camels representing a variety of breeds. Here, you’ll gain insight into the vital role camels play in desert life and learn about their unique characteristics: Jaisalmeri – Renowned for their speed and endurance Kutchi – Strong and dependable, ideal for carrying heavy loads Mewari – Valued for their rich milk production Bikaneri – The versatile all-rounder, prized for speed, strength, milk, and wool Continue to the Royal Cenotaphs (Devi Kund Sagar), an evocative complex of intricately carved marble and sandstone memorials commemorating generations of Bikaner’s royal family. Overnight: The Lallgarh Palace Hotel (or similar)

Meals: B

Today marks the start of your cycling adventure through the heart of rural Rajasthan. Begin at Nagnechiji Temple, then ride across a railway underpass and the JPR–JDH bypass, following quiet country roads that wind through scattered farms and traditional villages. Make a stop at the Jorbeer Vulture Sanctuary, a haven for migratory and resident birds of prey, before enjoying refreshments at Bhojanshala, located near a charitable cow care centre. Continue pedalling through Suradhana village, experiencing the rhythm of daily life in the desert plains. Pause for lunch at Gigasar, then ride onward to Deshnoke, whose name translates to “Pride of the Nation.” In the evening, take a short walk to the world-famous Karni Mata Temple, often called the Rat Temple, where thousands of revered rats are believed to embody the reincarnated descendants of the goddess Karni Mata—a fascinating and truly unique cultural experience. Overnight: Hotel in Deshnoke. Route: Nagnechiji – Jorbeer – Bhojanshala – Suradhana – Gigasar – Deshnoke approximately 41 kms.

Meals: B,L,D

This morning, set out on your cycle, pedalling first to Jaigla, a village of the Bishnoi community, known for their deep respect for nature and wildlife. Continue onward to Janglu, home to Bhati Rajputs and Jaats, where traditional rural life unfolds against a backdrop of open desert plains. Pause at an ancient rainwater pond (nadi) for refreshments and a short rest. The surrounding landscape is rich in gypsum, white clay, and lignite coal—resources vital to the region’s ceramic craftwork and power generation. Ride on to Dhinghsari, a Rajvi Rajput village, where you’ll be welcomed into a local home for lunch. Visit the village government school, meet the students, and enjoy an authentic insight into everyday life in rural Rajasthan. In the afternoon, continue cycling through Sathika—known as the in-laws’ village of Goddess Karni Mata—before reaching Siyana by evening. Overnight: Hotel Siyana Cottages. Route: Deshnoke – Jaigla – Janglu – Kishnasar – Dhinghsari – Sathika – Siyana approximately 56 km.

Meals: B,L,D

Today’s ride takes you through the starkly beautiful Thar Desert, where hardy acacia and aak (madar) plants dot the arid landscape. As you cycle along quiet desert tracks, you may encounter members of the Raika and Sansi nomadic communities, known for their deep connection to Rajasthan’s pastoral traditions. Pause for a tea break at a rustic mud-and-cement roadside dhaba after passing through Neniya village, before continuing on to Udat, where a home-cooked lunch awaits at a Rajput household. Later, visit a local potter’s home to see traditional earthenware craftsmanship, then pedal past the impressive Nokhra Solar Park, a striking symbol of India’s renewable energy progress. At Nokhra Junction, hand over your bicycles and drive the final 10 kilometres to Kishneri. This evening, enjoy dinner and a farewell celebration with your cycling support team, marking the end of a memorable desert adventure. Overnight: Hotel Shiv Vilas or similar in Kishneri. Route: Siyana – Neniya – Udat – Nokhra approximately 54 kms.

Meals: B,L,D

This morning, begin your drive to Jaisalmer, the fabled Golden City of Rajasthan. On arrival, check in to your group hotel, with the afternoon free to explore the maze of markets surrounding the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort. Wander through narrow lanes lined with vibrant textiles, leather goods, and intricate handicrafts — a sensory glimpse into the city’s rich desert heritage. In the evening, drive to Sunset Point, where you can take in sweeping views city and the vast Thar Desert beyond. Overnight: Hotel Rang Mahal Palace or similar

Meals: B

Today is devoted to exploring the ancient walled city of Jaisalmer. Begin with a visit to the 12th-century Jaisalmer Fort, entering through its impressive gateways before walking through a network of narrow, stone-paved lanes. Inside the fort, explore bazaars, temples, and historic homes, each reflecting the city’s long and varied history. From the fort’s ramparts, enjoy views across the city and surrounding desert. Continue to visit some of Jaisalmer’s famous havelis—the ornate mansions of wealthy merchants who prospered when the city was an important stop on the trade route between the Arabian Sea and Central India. These finely carved sandstone buildings provide a fascinating insight into the architecture and craftsmanship of the period. Overnight: Hotel Rang Mahal Palace or similar

Meals: B

Depart early this morning for your drive to Jodhpur, the vibrant Blue City of Rajasthan. Arrive by lunchtime, and check in to your hotel. The afternoon is free to explore at your leisure — wander through the bustling local markets, filled with colourful textiles, spices, and handicrafts, and soak up the lively atmosphere that defines this historic desert city. Overnight: Hotel Devi Bhawan or similar

Meals: B

Today, explore Jodhpur, beginning with a visit to the Mehrangarh Fort, which rises above the city on a rocky hill. The fort offers excellent views across Jodhpur and is regarded as one of the most impressive in Rajasthan. Inside, explore its palaces, courtyards, and museums, which reflect the city’s royal history and craftsmanship. Continue to the nearby Jaswant Thada, a white marble memorial built in 1899 in honour of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Located in peaceful gardens, the cenotaph features carved marble screens (jalis) and portraits of Rathore rulers dating back to the 13th century. Overnight: Hotel Devi Bhawan or similar

Meals: B

Depart this morning for your drive to Jaipur, the vibrant Pink City and capital of Rajasthan. Arrive by lunchtime and check in to your hotel. Founded in the early 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II, Jaipur was meticulously planned when the ruler moved his capital from Amber to this new site — today celebrated for its distinctive pink-hued architecture and regal charm. This afternoon, visit the magnificent City Palace, an exquisite blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles, still partly occupied by the royal family. Continue to the Jantar Mantar Observatory, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where fascinating astronomical instruments from the 18th century reveal the scientific ingenuity of the era. Overnight: Hotel Mandawa Haveli or similar

Meals: B

Today is devoted to exploring the historic and architectural highlights of Jaipur. Begin with a visit to the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), known for its distinctive pink façade built for royal women to view street life below. Continue to the Amber Fort, a large hilltop complex overlooking the Aravalli Hills. Explore its Chambers of Mirrors, fine marble inlay work, and courtyards with views over the surrounding landscape. In the afternoon, take part in a guided walking tour of the old city, offering a closer look at local markets, traditional crafts, and daily life in Jaipur. Overnight: Hotel Mandawa Haveli or similar

Meals: B

This morning, drive from Jaipur to Agra, stopping en route to visit Fatehpur Sikri, the former imperial capital built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. Although it was abandoned after a short time, the city remains well preserved and displays a mix of Mughal, Persian, and Indian architectural styles. Explore its courtyards, palaces, and mosques to gain an understanding of this important historical site. Continue to Agra, arriving by late afternoon. In the evening, visit the Taj View Point on the banks of the Yamuna River, near Mehtab Bagh, for a sunset view of the Taj Mahal. Overnight: Hotel Clarks Shiraz or similar

Meals: B

This morning, visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The early morning light provides ideal conditions to appreciate the monument’s symmetry and craftsmanship. Afterwards, visit the Agra Fort, a red sandstone fortress that served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors when Agra was the capital. From its walls, there are good views across the Yamuna River towards the Taj Mahal. In the afternoon, drive back to Delhi, where the trip concludes.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

6 scheduled departures between 17 Oct 2026 and 11 Mar 2027.

  • Departs 17 Oct 2026 – ends 31 Oct 2026 (15 days)
  • Departs 12 Nov 2026 – ends 26 Nov 2026 (15 days)
  • Departs 10 Dec 2026 – ends 24 Dec 2026 (15 days)
  • Departs 21 Jan 2027 – ends 4 Feb 2027 (15 days)
  • Departs 25 Feb 2027 – ends 11 Mar 2027 (15 days)
  • Departs 11 Mar 2027 – ends 25 Mar 2027 (15 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 14 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners
  • Airport transfer on Day 1
  • Well-appointed hotels on a twin share basis
  • Private transportation
  • Desert safari listed in itinerary
  • Mountain bikes with gears between Bikaner and Nokhra
  • Sightseeing and sight entry fees as listed in itinerary
  • Expert bilingual guide
  • Group medical kit

Not included

  • Airport and departure taxes
  • Items of a personal nature i.e. laundry, bottled mineral water, soft drinks, phone calls
  • Tips
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Visa
  • Optional activities and sightseeing
  • Still/video camera fees at monuments
  • Flight Delhi to Bikaner

Reviews (14)

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Excellent voyage! Bon équilibre entre culture et activité! Je le suggère à tous!

Martin|Quebec, Canada
2 Mar 2026
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We had an marvelous and memorable adventure. Our guide was exceptionnal. I recommend this adventure!

Patrice|Quebec, Canada
1 Mar 2026
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Very good trip

Best guide

Plante|Quebec, Canada
10 Feb 2026
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My recent trip to India was fantastic. It exceeded my expectations. Our guide, Kathy, left no the detail undone. From walking in the gardens in the early morning to drinking a Chai with the locals, The sites we saw were exceptional and will live in my memory forever

Shondra|VIC Australia
25 Mar 2025
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The tour gives a great opportunity to explore the first and palaces of Rajasthan in a relaxed and enjoyable way

Robert Wells|NSW Australia
25 Mar 2025
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Travelled with my family to do the North India Adventure and found that the variety of experiences from the history, food, sights and sounds was great. The bike riding was very easy, if you are moderately fit, as its very flat and the bikes are pretty good. Our guide Swali did a great job with his extensive knowledge and sense of humour, as did our driver Jessie. Great experience for me and my family.

D. Wilson|NSW, Australia
5 Feb 2018
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World Expeditions provided an itinerary that covered our particular desires even though there were just the two of us! What's more, it all ran smoothly in all three destinations with different guides and representatives in each. Well done, W.E.!

Colin Bindloss|Victoria, Australia
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Most memorable part: the cycling

K. Heron|Auckland, New Zealand
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Most memorable part: cycling through the rural countryside and villages, our wonderful supportive leader and the rest of the crew.

Denice Davies|VIC, Australia

Extra trip info

Will My Trip Run?

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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