India – Agra & Taj Mahal Extension

Complement your experience on India: Tiger Volunteer Adventure with a visit to the iconic Taj Mahal. $845 (Adult) / $795 (Child)

Our Purpose

The Taj Mahal is often regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings every constructed and remains the icon of India’s cultural heritage. Built by the Emperor Shah Jahan for his late wife, the Taj Mahal took nearly two decades to build by nearly 20,000 workers from all over South Asia. The white marble complex, an ode to love, is truly one of the greatest examples of Mughal architecture in the world.

Today, the Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts millions of visitors each year from all over the world.

India volunteer vacation
India volunteer vacation
India volunteer vacation
  • India volunteer vacation
  • India volunteer vacation
  • India volunteer vacation

What You'll Do

The heart of the experience will be the guided sunset and sunrise visits to the Taj Mahal. Experience one of the seven wonders of the modern world and learn about the history of this iconic landmark with your expert guide. The contrasting times of day will provide two unique views of the monument as the sun reflects off the marble.

We’ll also take time to uncover some of the lesser known forts and palaces of the area. Scale the imposing turrets and gateways of the Agra Fort, the stronghold of the mighty Mughal Empire, and soak in the views of the Yamuna River and the adjacent Taj Mahal from above. Then explore the remarkable complex of palaces known as Fatehpur Sikri which served as the capital of the Mughal Empire.

What You'll See

In addition to the Taj Mahal and the area’s palaces and forts, take in the natural side of Agra.  One day, we’ll visit a rescue center for India’s sloth bears. Come face-to-face with these gentle creatures and learn about what is being done to rescue them from poaching and over development in India.

Another day, explore one of the world’s premier bird sanctuaries from the back of a bicycle rickshaw. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, located in the wetlands of Keoladeo Ghana National Park, is home to over 350 bird species from all over Asia as well as fish, snakes, lizards, turtles and deer. The wetlands offer a peaceful oasis during our time in Agra.

India volunteer vacation
India volunteer vacation
India volunteer vacation

Where You'll Stay

During our time in Agra, we’ll stay in the Clarks Shiraz, a 5-star luxury hotel overlooking the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. A sprawling 5 acre compound, the hotel is the perfect blend of Indian hospitality and location – walking distance to many of Agra’s main sites. In New Delhi, we’ll stay in a hotel adjacent to the airport to allow for ease of transfers.

India volunteer vacation
India volunteer vacation
India volunteer vacation

Itinerary Overview

The extension will be continue from Day 10 of the India: Tiger Volunteer Adventure itinerary. Spend the evening in Delhi and take off the next morning for Agra. Along the way, stop at the Agra Bear Rescue Facility to tour the world;s largest bear rescue center. Arrive in Agra just in time to see the majestic Taj Mahal at sunset.

Rise early the next morning to see the Taj Mahal at sunrise along with a guided tour. Afterwards, visit the sprawling palace complex of Fatehpur Sikri and spend the afternoon spotting wildlife from the back of a bicycle rickshaw at Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. On Day 13, tour the mighty Agra Fort before heading back to Delhi to relax at the hotel before departing India.

Want to learn more?

Request an itinerary

Traveler's Journal

India is one of those places that never ceases to amaze me. Our guide was a gem – from the colorful history and sacred sites to the natural landscapes of Ranthambore he kept us engaged with every turn our journey took. And the tigers! I could not believe my eyes when we first drove along the dusty roads of the national park and stumbled upon our first Mama and her cub. This is truly a moment I will never forget. Each night we returned to beautiful hotels where I felt at home in a world so far away.

India volunteer vacation

Janet R.

Pasadena, CA

Dates & Fees

We offer several Family Friendly dates, to help families book travel around common school vacation times

4 Days/3 Nights

Program Cost: $845 (Adult) / $795 (Child)

(All dates continued from corresponding India: Tiger Volunteer Adventure dates)

2019 Dates

  • * Double Occupancy Price. If needed, we can pair you with another traveler of the same gender to keep costs down, or opt for the SRS (below). However, you are required to pay the SRS if we are unable to find you a suitable roommate. 
  • Child pricing is for a child sharing a room with an adult traveler.
  • *Although unlikely, prices and accommodations are subject to change with a 60-day notice from Discover Corps
  • Single Room Supplement = $250
  • All trips are Family Friendly
  • 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 4 dinners
  • Transportation in private vehicles
  • Entrance fees & guided tours at Taj Mahal
  • 4 nights accommodation
  • All scheduled activities and excursions
  • Discover Corps guide
  • $50,000 emergency medical evacuation insurance
  • Discover Corps Cuba pre-departure booklet
  • 24-hour Discover Corps emergency hotline

What's Included

Our trips are all-inclusive to make your experience hassle-free.  Here’s a sample of what’s included:

  • 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 4 dinners
  • Transportation in private vehicles
  • Entrance fees & guided tours at Taj Mahal
  • 4 nights accommodation
  • All scheduled activities and excursions
  • Discover Corps Host
  • $50,000 emergency medical evacuation insurance
  • Discover Corps Cuba pre-departure booklet
  • 24-hour Discover Corps emergency hotline

Alumni & Family Discounts, Monthly Payment Plans, and More

Repeat travelers and groups are eligible for discounts. Looking for a payment plan to help manage your trip? Learn more here.

Customized Private Trips

Let us create a custom trip for your group. Learn more about custom group travel.

India: Tiger Volunteer Vacation

This is a post-trip extension added onto any date of the India: Tiger Volunteer Adventure trip.

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