Delhi stands as the capital of Modern India. Here, you can see the mingling of the Old and New India, the ancient and the modern.
It is made up of seven ancient cities, spanning the period from the 11th to 20th centuries, and has seen the rise and fall of many emperors which have left behind a plethora of monuments that commemorate the grandeur and glory of bygone ages. Very few cities in the world can express such a profusion of architectural styles.
Old Delhi was an ancient walled city. Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan in 1650 switched the Mughal capital from Agra to Delhi. Shah Jehan, who possessed an exquisite talent, particularly in architecture, created the seventh city and in the process brought about Delhi's glorious renaissance.
Here, you will see Red Fort, the most opulent of forts and Palace of the Mughal Empire. The fort is Shah Jehan's symbol of power and elegance, built behind red sandstone walls. Its main gate (Lahore Gate) faces Chandni Chowk, the perpetually congested avenue heading west. It is filled with twisting lanes, small streets and crowded bazaars. If you peer through a portico you may see a man getting shaved, silver being weighed, or any other conceivable form of intense commerce.
We will also visit Raj Ghat, the memorial site of the Mahatma Gandhi and Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India.
New Delhi was designed and built by the British in the 1920's. It's a city of wide boulevards impressive government buildings, green parks and gardens. In 1911 King George V announced the transfer of the capital from Calcutta to Delhi. The King's architects, Lutyens and Baker, set in motion the design and construction of Delhi's eighth city - New Delhi. Lutyens designed an imperial city which had palatial-sized buildings set amid broad tree-lined avenues punctuated by Mughal style gardens, complete with fountains and shallow pools. It took 20 years to complete this immense undertaking only to have the British pack up and relinquish the subcontinent in 1947.
You will also visit two monuments from Delhi's past - Humayun's Tomb and Qutub Minar. Your drive takes you along the ceremonial avenue, the imposing India Gate and Parliament House.
At the end of the tour, you will be taken back to your hotel.
Do it. Excellent trip and easily worth what seems like a fair amount of money. If you are an experienced cyclist and think there aren’t enough kms in a day, don’t worry you will be tired. Decent MTB but not your light road bike. Excellent support staff led by top man Hung. Incredibly knowledgeable about culture, politics, history. More than just a cycle trip. You visit small villages well off the beaten track. It never felt too touristy even in the main cities.
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Saigon
Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Saigon, Hoi An, Halong Bay, Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon
The 'Annapurna Sanctuary trek' takes you into a hidden bowl in the heart of the Annapurna range, where you are surrounded by a spectacular panorama of towering peaks, ten of which are over 6,000m. One of the more popular Annapurna treks, this trek takes you as far as Annapurna Base Camp at 4,095m. We reach the sanctuary after a beautiful and varied trek through the Himalayan foothills, passing through small villages, mixed forests and terraced farmland. En-route we enjoy great mountain views at sunrise from Poon Hill. An excellent introduction to Nepal and trekking in Annapurnas.
You begin your tour in Kathmandu where you'll have a free day to explore the sights and sounds of the capital at your leisure. From Kathmandu you have a scenic road journey to Pokhara where your trek begins from nearby Naya Pul. Staying in lodges throughout, you will get to meet and talk with other trekkers and guides each evening, and discuss the places you've visited, and the route ahead, as well as making a contribution to the local economy.
Starting in the foothills, immediately north of Pokhara you start the trek by climbing to Ghorepani, where you can enjoy beautiful sunrise views of the Annapurna range from Poon Hill. From Ghorepani you cross several valleys and then ascend along the beautiful Modi Khola valley. Deep Rhododendron forests, with sprinklings of a whole range of orchids, and bamboo forests replete with chattering monkeys, are a dominant feature of this trek.
As you walk further up into the centre of the Annapurna Himal, you will visit Machhapuchhare Base Camp followed by Annapurna Base Camp itself. As you enter the Annapurna Sanctuary (a mountain ringed amphitheatre of immense proportions), you will be rewarded with spectacular views of 10 snow-capped peaks above 6,000m. The peaks include: Fang, Glacier Dome, Homunculi, Annapurna, Annapurna South, Annapurna 1, Annapurna 3 and Machhapuchhare. All of these, combined with the impressive backdrop of the south face of Annapurna 1 (8,090m) make this trek a truly unique and unforgettable experience. After some time exploring the Sanctuary, you retrace your steps for a couple of days to leave, before trekking back towards Pokhara, stopping along the way at the hot springs near Jhinnadunda.
You have a free day in Pokhara which we leave to give you time to relax in this peaceful lakeside town, and to allow for any delays on the trek itself. From Pokhara you travel by road back to Kathmandu and have a little free time to do some last minute shopping or a little more sightseeing around the city and surrounding valley.
Extensions are available to visit Chitwan or Bardia National Parks, try some white-water rafting or perhaps even a home stay in a nearby Newari village.
Trekking and HikingMountains
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Home-stay
Age Range
12-75 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kathmandu, Annapurna Base Camp
Kathmandu, Annapurna Base Camp, Bambo, Jhinnudanda, Pothana, Pokhara, Hille, Ghorepani, Tadapani, Chhomrong, Himalayan Hotel, Machhapuchhre Base Camp
The northern province of Rajasthan is awash with all the colours of India, and the best way to immerse yourself in local life is of course on two wheels. Over 15 days, you’ll explore Delhi’s wonders, wander the streets of Jaipur (the Pink City), cycle to the holy lake of Pushkar where pilgrims cleanse their sins, and the White City of Udaipur, known as the ‘Venice of the East’. Ride through the Chittorgarh countryside, stay in a 16th-century castle, search for tigers in the Ranthambhore National Park, catch some rest in a 400-year-old first and then set your sights on the Taj Mahal in Agra, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. With plenty of opportunity to meet locals, sip on chai and feast on the delicious local cuisine – you'll fall even harder for India’s allure.
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Tent, Camping
Age Range
14-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
New Delhi, Ranthambhore National
New Delhi, Ranthambhore National Park, Madhogarh, Agra, Jaipur, Pushkar, Udaipur, Paangarh, Rajasthan, Bijaipur, Bundi
25% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Journey through Egypt and Jordan experiencing some of the most astounding sites in the Middle East.
Witness the breath-taking Pyramids, Valley of the Kings, the Dead Sea, Wadi Rum and the Red Rose City of Petra all in one go! Get to discover the finest natural and man-made wonders of the world and some of the oldest cultures in history. A diverse mix of magical landscapes, cultural exploration and relaxation…
Cross into Jordan and feel the thrill of a jeep safari in the stunning desert landscape of Wadi Rum, with its dramatic rock formations and vast, echoing expanses. Make your way to magical Petra, the ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs, where every step reveals a new marvel. Stop over at the Dead Sea for a rejuvenating mud bath.
This journey promises an unparalleled exploration of two of the most captivating countries in the Middle East, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime.
Explorer
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Camping, Luxury Hotel
Age Range
18-75 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Cairo, Amman, Dahab, Wadi Rum, P
Cairo, Amman, Dahab, Wadi Rum, Petra, Aswan, Nile Felucca, Luxor
40% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Take in the sights, sounds and smells of India on a unique wildlife-focused adventure. With a local leader and some fellow keen travellers by your side, this 12-day trip will take you to the local’s favourite for tiger spotting – Panna National Park – as well as the most popular national park for spotting the royal Bengal – Bandhavgarh Tiger Sanctuary. Head to Jabalpur to explore the architecture and waterfalls, then carry on to Satpura National Park for some night safaris on 4WDs and boats (look out for jungle cats and fruit bats!). See why Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary is one of the world’s best spots for birdwatching, then head to Delhi to uncover the wonders of India’s capital. If your heart is searching for birdlife, deer, flying foxes, leopards, sloth bears, monkeys and tigers – this adventure is calling you!
Wildlife
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
New Delhi, Agra, Panna National
New Delhi, Agra, Panna National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park, Jabalpur, Satpura National Park
20% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Spend ten days uncovering Vietnam’s vibrant cities, serene landscapes, and rich history. Begin in Hanoi, then cruise emerald Halong Bay on a traditional junk boat. Ride the overnight train to imperial Hue, explore its citadel and royal tombs, then journey via the scenic Hai Van Pass to charming Hoi An, with its cobbled streets, colourful markets, and countryside cycling to Tra Que village. Fly south to Ho Chi Minh City and venture into the Mekong Delta, visiting floating markets and local workshops. End with time to explore Saigon’s colonial landmarks and lively streets, blending culture, cuisine, and captivating scenery.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort, Sleeper Train
Age Range
18-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Halong
Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An
25% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
I can’t imagine navigating Vietnam without Diem. The trip was incredibly organized.. starting with Diem meeting us at the airport, to the lovely hotels, flights, transportation reservations, etc. We also appreciated the tips on local cuisine shopping and sightseeing. I highly recommend the upgrade if you can afford it. We hope more upgraded Explorer trips become available.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort, Lodge, Bungalow
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Hanoi, Siem Reap, Ho Chi Minh Ci
Hanoi, Siem Reap, Ho Chi Minh City, Angkor Thom, Angkor Wat, Lan Ha Bay, Hoi An, Hue
13% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Mera Peak (6,461 m), the highest trekking mountain in Nepal, is reached via Mera Peak Climbing. Anyone with a little bit of mountaineering experience should climb Mera Peak. Due to its elevation, it is a difficult trekking peak, although only very basic technical climbing skills are needed. Off-the-beaten-path in the rarely visited Hinku Valley is the climb to Mera Peak. The trail is isolated, the surroundings are untamed and clean, and there are not many populated areas. You'll spend the most of your nights in teahouses at yak herders' summer camps or remote kharkas.
Although Mera Peak is not particularly difficult technically, it is tall at 6476 m, has a long summit day, and is exposed to the elements. You need to drink plenty of water and keep your pace manageable and slow. Although the snow route itself is not particularly difficult, it is a long day out and will wear you out. You must feel at ease moving while cinched in and keeping a safe line while moving on a man rope. You also need to know how to walk in crampons and use your walking axe to self-arrest. We set up a high camp for this peak, so you should be comfortable camping on snow. It's also crucial to stay warm, dry, hydrated, and well-fed to be in the best condition on summit day.
This trek combines the quiet and little visited paths of the Tamang Heritage Trail, formerly a restricted area for trekkers, with the spectacular high mountain scenery of the Langang National Park.
Often overlooked, Langtang treks mountainous region to the north of Kathmandu provide some of Nepal's most spectacular scenery, and trekking in this area is as good as anywhere in the country. The soaring, snow-capped mountains at the head of the Langtang valley, and the rich cultural heartlands of the Tamang people in the lower foothills combine to make this a perfect trekking alternative to the better known Everest and Annapurnas treks.
You begin your tour in Kathmandu where you'll have a free evening to explore this bustling city. There's also time for any last minute purchases to take on your trek.
Following the Trisuli River north out of Kathmandu, we drive you to Syabrubesi, a Sherpa village located at the very edge of the Langtang National Park where your trek begins and you spend the first night in a trekking lodge. Staying in lodges allows you to spend more time meeting and talking with other trekkers and guides in the evenings, as well as enjoying a little more comfort at the end of each day and contributing to the local economy.
From Syabrubesi, you spend the first leg of the trek following the quiet Tamang Heritage Trail through an area heavily influenced by Tibet which was a restricted area for trekkers until 2014. You'll see lush terraced farmland, tiny homesteads and villages and learn a lot about typical rural Nepali mountain life. The tour then heads up the Langtang valley, crossing the river several times as you travel up along the gorge-like, lower section of the valley. You pass through oak and rhododendron forests and trek across glacial moraine on your way to the village of Langtang which was hit hard by the 2015 earthquake.
A little further up the valley is Kyangin Gompa, where you spend 3 nights and have plenty of time to explore the local area. You can do several day-walks from here such as ascending Cherko Ri (4984m) for some amazing views, or continuing up the Langtang Khola to Langshisha Karka.
After backtracking down the valey, you then travel through Sing Gompa for some more spectacular views before finishing the trek and driving back to Kathmandu. Extensions are available to visit Chitwan or Bardia National Parks, try some white-water rafting or perhaps even a home stay in a nearby Newari village.
Trekking and HikingMountains
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Home-stay
Age Range
12-75 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kathmandu, Kyanjin Gompa, Lama H
Kathmandu, Kyanjin Gompa, Lama Hotel, Thulo Syabru, Sing Gompa, Syabrubesi, Gatlang, Tatopani, Rasuwa, Thuman, Briddim, Sherpa Gaon, Ghoda Tabela
PRIVATE TOUR: Experience China's history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes on this 11-day journey from Beijing to Lhasa. Discover the Forbidden City and Great Wall in Beijing, marvel at Xi'an's Terracotta Warriors, and immerse yourself in Chengdu's panda sanctuaries. Conclude your journey in Lhasa, exploring the spiritual depths of the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple.
Explorer
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Beijing, Lhasa, Xi'an, Chengdu
Beijing, Lhasa, Xi'an, Chengdu
25% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
PRIVATE TOUR: Discover the highlights of China on this 13-day private itinerary, from Beijing’s Forbidden City and Great Wall to Xi'an’s Terracotta Warriors. Enjoy the serene beauty of Hangzhou’s West Lake, delve into the ancient Liangzhu Ruins, and experience the lively contrast of Shanghai’s skyline.
Explorer
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Xi'
Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Xi'an, Chengdu
25% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
I really liked this trip, though I wish we stayed in Busan for at least another night. Both the Contiki and Korean guides were great, there were a few add-ons in each city to choose from and I definitely feel like I learned more about Korea than if I'd gone to the country without doing a Contiki tour. Thank you Joey and Lina!
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Guest House, Hotel
Age Range
18-35 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Seoul, Jeju, Jeju island, DMZ, B
Seoul, Jeju, Jeju island, DMZ, Busan, Jeonju
15% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.