vibrant cultural sights. boutique heritage hotels. colorful local markets. profound personal connection,
N E X T D E P A R T U R E:
MARCH 2-12 2023
(TAJ MAHAL EXTENSION: March 12-14)
EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW
During this 11 day voyage you will see Rajasthan’s famous sites, experience local markets, stay at boutique heritage hotels, taste incredible food and uncover the true story of the history and culture of Rajasthan.
This trip also highlights the strife, resilience and modern uprising of women in this region. You will discover a candid and intimate side of India and hear the stories of women from villagers to city dwellers.
We will be partnering with Sambhali Trust, a foundation empowering and educating more than 1000 women in Rajasthan, to gain rare insight on what they are doing to create a more sustainable and peaceful future for Indian women.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Support local organizations fighting for women’s rights
Camel trek, learn to cook by the fire and dance with the gypsies.
Pamper yourself at a spa in a beautiful heritage hotel.
Learn to sew or block print while engaging with the women of Sambhali Trust.
Experience a village homestay in the Thar desert.
investment | $3850 pp
This price is based on double occupancy room (2 beds) | Payment plan: $770 in 3 installments
*$1500 for single supplement (if you want your own room)
* $850 Taj Mahal extension
W H A T ‘ S I N C L U D E D ?
ACCOMODATIONS
10 nights in heritage hotels, local guesthouses, homestay and 3-4 star hotels.
MEALS
10 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners
NOT INCLUDED
International airfare, Indian visa, drinks other than water, guide and driver tips, spa treatments, a few meals.
ALSO INCLUDED
Airport Transfers
Private van & driver
Bilingual guides
Regional flight
All listed excursions
Entrance fees
Community activities
“an opportunity to dig deeper into the culture by
meeting reaL PEOPLE AT MULtiple levels of society”
- MAXINE KIMBREL | 2018 PARTICIPANT
T R I P D E T A I L S
A R R I V A L + D E P A R T U R E ( F L I G H T I N F O )
Unless you are purchasing the airline insurance it is a good idea to wait until departure is confirmed to buy plane tickets. Please plan to arrive into Indira Gandhi International airport (DEL) in New Delhi on Day 1. Our airport transfer will be confirmed once everyone has their flights.
T H E I T I N E R A R Y
D A Y O N E | ARRIVAL
Please arrive at Delhi International Airport anytime today. You will be met at the airport by our guide and transferred to our hotel for the night.
D A Y T W O | JAISALMER
Early flight to Jaisalmer. After lunch we will tour the golden city before heading to a rooftop dinner. (B,L,D)
D A Y T H R E E | SETRAWA
We spend half the day exploring the golden fortress of Jaisalmer. We’ll head to the desert village of Setrawa after lunch. In the evening we will take a camel ride into the dunes for sunset tea. (B,D)
Sleep | Village
D A Y F O U R | SETRAWA
Today we will explore the village of Setrawa and head to the Sambhali center to meet the women participating in this program. After a rest from the midday heat you can visit a local farm or participate in other village activities. In the evening there will be a fire with local musicians. (B,L,D)
Sleep | Village
D A Y F I V E | JODPHUR & SAMBHALI INTRO
After breakfast we’ll hit the road and head to Jodhpur. We will head straight to the headquarters of Sambhali Trust and hear all about the organization, meet the women, have a home-cooked lunch and participate in a hands-on sewing class.
D A Y S I X | FORT & SHOPPING
We will head straight to the famous Jodhpur Fortress. We will walk the winding streets and have lunch overlooking an ancient step-well. In the afternoon there will be time to shop for gems, art, clothes, textiles and more. (B,L)
D A Y S E V E N | INTERNATIONAL WOMENS DAY
Sleep in today and enjoy the beautiful grounds of this hotel. In the afternoon we will head out to visit one of the boarding homes of Sambhali and help the girls prepare for the big march happening today. We will participate in the march in the early evening. (B,D)
D A Y E I G H T | PUSHKAR
We are on our way to the funky town of Pushkar known for its lake, spirituality, and camel fair. You’ll have the afternoon to explore and watch the spectacular sunset by the lake. (B,L)
D A Y N I N E | JAIPUR
If you choose, there is the option to do rooftop yoga before we leave for Jaipur. We’ll tour the market before heading to dinner. (B,D)
D A Y T E N | JAIPUR EXPLORATION
So much to see! Visit Amer Fort by Jeep, walk down to the city palace and see the Palace of Wind. You will also have a hands-on pottery demonstration of the exquisite and famous Jaipur blue pottery. We will have our final goodbye dinner tonight at a very special place. (B,L,D)
D A Y E L E V E N | DEPARTURES or EXTENSION BEGINS
Those heading back to Delhi to catch their flights will depart by bus to make their connections back home. (B)
O P T I O N A L 3 - D A Y E X T E N S I O N | T A J M A H A L
D A Y T W O | BACK TO DELHI
For those photography lovers in the group, we will rise early for images of the Taj Mahal from across the river. We will then head out for New Delhi. Today we will explore the modern areas of Hauz Khas. We will eat dinner near our hotel. (B,D)
D A Y O N E | TO THE TAJ!
For those extending their trip we will leave by bus with Virendra from Jaipur to head to the Taj Mahal! We will spend a few hours this afternoon and sunset exploring this wonder of the world and will spend the night in Agra. (B,D)
F I N A L D A Y | D E P A R T U R E S
Today will will rise early to discover Old New Delhi and take a walking spice tour of this area while discovering it’s forts and temples. In the afternoon we will visit the lotus temple and head to a market called Dilli Haat for last minute shopping and presents before departing for the airport. (B)
“I loved the trip . We saw the ‘real India’, Our leaders were fantastic. Great food and beautiful hotels.”
- KATHY FOGEL, 2019 PARTICIPANT
GUIDES + PARTNERS
G O V I N D + V I R E N D R A
For this trip, Purposeful Nomad partners with Shambali Trust, a foundation empowering and educating more than 1000 women in Jodhpur, India.
Virendra Chouhan, co-founder of Sambahli will be our exclusive tour leader along with Govind Rathore, the director of Sambhali Trust.
They will give us rare insight into this rich and ancient culture, their complex and outdated caste system and women’s rights in India.
SAMBHALI TRUST
Sambhali Trust is an NGO focused on the development and empowerment of marginalized women and girls in Rajasthan. We work throughout Jodhpur and the surrounding Thar desert with women and children experiencing discrimination and violence on a daily basis due to economic, gender, and caste status.
In Hindi, Sambhali means "strengthening of the deprived." We believe in a grassroots model for lasting, community-driven empowerment fostering dignity and self-confidence, encouraging deprived Rajasthani women to reclaim their worth.
A D D I T I O N A L R E S O U R C E S
H A V E Q U E S T I O N S ?
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T R A V E L I N S U R A N C E
Here at Purposeful Nomad we do our best to ensure that every program is a success.
However, in the event of something unexpected we want you to be fully protected. We REQUIRE that you purchase international insurance.
Purposeful Nomad is an affiliate partner with World Nomads but you may choose any company.
Click here to purchase insurance through World Nomads.
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B O O K I N G T E R M S + R E F U N D P O L I C Y
Please click here to view our payment details and requirements as well as to the refund policy agreement.
V I S A + E N T R Y I N F O
Please click here for detailed information on how to obtain the correct visa for your travels.
V A C C I N A T I O N S
Be an informed traveler! Ultimately it is up to you to consult a physician. We are here to help but can not legally provide medical advice. Here is a great website to review.
P A CK I N G L I S T
Click here to access our packing list designed specifically for this trip. There’s also information about tips and currency.