IVHQ Free-Time Experiences & Tours In India

Experience
Immerse yourself in a captivating day trip that unveils the mesmerizing beauty of Vembanad Lake, a true gem of India's natural landscape.

Highlights

Return
Your day of exploration concludes around 4 pm, as you return to the volunteer accommodation, carrying with you the memories of a truly incredible journey.

Your volunteering journey in Kerala is just the beginning. Extend your adventure with a captivating escape to Goa, a beloved coastal haven gracing the shores of the Arabian Sea.

Why Goa?
Goa offers a tapestry of experiences, from sun-kissed beaches to a harmonious blend of Indian and Portuguese culture. As you step into this southwestern Indian treasure, expect a delightful fusion of sun, sand, delectable cuisine (particularly seafood), and rich heritage.

You'll be responsible for

Your Experience

Day 1: Touch down at Goa Airport and transfer to your hotel. The day is yours to unwind, soak up the sun on the beach, or venture into the nearby attractions.

Day 2: After breakfast, embark on a South Goa sightseeing journey. Visit the Se Cathedral Church, a marvel steeped in history. Next, explore the Basilica de Bom Jesus, a Portuguese-style masterpiece housing the remains of St. Francis Xavier. Panjim Bazar beckons for shopping and dining, while Dona Paula Beach invites you to revel in water sports and coastal cuisine. Wrap up your day at Calangute Beach, watching the sunset at a beach shack.

Transport back to the hotel will be provided at the end of the evening.

Day 3: Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, followed by a leisurely day at your discretion. We recommend joining a yoga classe, beach relaxation, exploring Fontainhas (the old Portuguese quarters), or visiting the Mahadeva Temple.

Day 4: After a relaxed breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure.

Flights: as a reminder, volunteers are responsible for the payment and the booking of their airfares to and from Goa. Your hotel check-in is at 2pm (on Day 1) and your check-out is at 11am (on Day 4); so you will need to book your flights to Goa that arrive after 1pm (on Day 1) and depart on or before 11am (on Day 4). 

One airport drop-off will be required if you are needing transport from the volunteer program to the airport for your flight. Another airport pick-up will be required if you will be requiring transport from the airport to the volunteer program after the tour.

A recommendation of a domestic airline that volunteers may like to check out if 'Indigo Airlines'.  Please keep in mind that generally luggage is limited to 15kgs as most domestic flights have this limit - if you plan to take your luggage back and fly home you should book extra luggage on these flights.

Accommodation: it is important to keep in mind that volunteers joining this tour can expect to be accommodated in a shared room with up to 2 people per room. If you wish to arrange a private room upgrade, for an additional cost, you will need to contact your IVHQ Program Manager to help arrange this. 

Bookings: volunteers are able to join this tour once their volunteer duration has ended. Please keep in mind that there are no bookings for this tour from the 13th of December 2024 until the 7th of January 2025. 

Documentation: once booked, you will need to send the local team a copy of your passport.

Overview
Embrace the allure of Kerala with our Munnar Tea Plantation Visit—a favored choice among past volunteers. This enchanting journey promises to immerse you in the picturesque wonders of the region, while providing a deeper understanding of its vibrant culture.

Destination
Munnar, a hill station nestled in the Western Ghats mountain range in Kerala, South India, awaits your exploration. Situated 80 miles from Cochin, it's a leisurely 3-hour drive, with round-trip transportation conveniently included in the fee. Perched at 5,200 feet above sea level, Munnar's temperate climate has earned it the title of the 'Kashmir of South India.'

Highlights

Important to note
The price quoted is for 1 person joining the tour; however, if more than 1 person is joining, then the local team will refund the relevant volunteers US$35 directly once they are in-country. 

Discover the wonders of India's capital and the iconic Taj Mahal with our exclusive day tour. As a volunteer on the IVHQ India - Delhi program, you can elevate your journey by adding this unforgettable experience to your adventure.

Delve into the heart of Delhi, where history and modernity seamlessly coexist. Your day will be filled with awe-inspiring moments, from the ancient charm of Old Delhi to the contemporary marvels of New Delhi.

You will be responsible for:

Here's a glimpse of your incredible itinerary:

Begin your day by departing from the volunteer program and embarking on a journey to Agra, a city boasting three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a rich history as the capital of the Mughal Emperors from 1526 to 1628. Enjoy breakfast en route.

Upon arrival in Agra, your enchanting tour of the Taj Mahal commences, guided by an English-speaking expert who will unveil the rich history of this iconic monument.

After your visit, savor a delectable lunch at a restaurant in Agra. Then, you'll have some free time to explore the vibrant markets of Agra, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture.

As the day draws to a close, we'll transport you back to the volunteer program, ensuring you return by 7pm, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime. Embrace the spirit of India, its history, and the beauty of the Taj Mahal – an experience that transcends your bucket list.

Are you ready for an extraordinary start to your volunteer abroad experience? Delhi, a city known for its rich culture, beckons you to combine everything you need to know about your program with an immersive experience of local traditions, customs, and Delhi's unmissable activities!

Our Introduction Week, a beloved choice among IVHQ volunteers, is your key to conquering any culture shock you may encounter in India. It's more than just a guide; it's your gateway to making new friends and building connections for unforgettable weekend getaways and social experiences.

Here's a glimpse of what awaits you during this transformative week:

In case any monument is closed, then the local team will show you an alternative site. 

Day 3: Language and Cinema

In case any monument is closed, then the local team will show you an alternative site - all entrance fees are included.

Day 5: Language Learning

Here's what you need to know:
Duration: The Introduction Week is offered as an extension to your program duration and it’s a comprehensive orientation that runs for the first 5 days of your stay. Once you complete the Introduction Week, you’ll be ready to start volunteering on the following Monday. This means that if you want to volunteer for 2 weeks and you add the introduction week to your itinerary, you’ll be hosted by the local team for a total of 3 weeks.

Taj Mahal Visit: If you wish to join the Taj Mahal Visit on day 6, this is an optional add-on for an additional US$120. This includes an air conditioned car or van from Delhi to Agra and back, state insurance, driver, parking and toll taxes, breakfast, lunch and a guide. Entrance fees to the Taj Mahal are not included in the 'Taj Mahal Visit' fee and must be paid separately. You can expect to pay an additional 1100 Rupees (US$16) for the entry ticket at the gate when you arrive.

More information: The guide during the Delhi sightseeing is not provided, but the local team will be there to show you around. During sightseeing days, lunch will be packed for you and you will eat in the car or you will have a picnic. Entrance fees for Delhi sightseeing, movie tickets, transportation for the sightseeing with a driver included.

Overview
Embark on a captivating 3-day, 2-night expedition to North India's iconic Taj Mahal. This excursion is a must-do for volunteers seeking an unforgettable cultural experience. Here's a glimpse of what awaits:

Day 1 - Friday: Arrival in Delhi
As the sun sets over Cochin, you'll need to book a night flight to Delhi. Upon your arrival, our courteous driver will be ready to whisk you away to a charming and cozy bed and breakfast in Delhi. Rest and rejuvenate in anticipation of your adventure.

Day 2 - Saturday: Taj Mahal Discovery
Your day begins with a delightful breakfast, setting the stage for your journey to Agra. Our driver will escort you to this historic city, where you'll meet your knowledgeable guide. Prepare to be enchanted as you explore the timeless wonder of the Taj Mahal. While lunch and dinner are at your own discretion, our driver can suggest exceptional dining venues.

Day 3 - Sunday: Delhi's Hidden Gems
After breakfast, your journey continues with a discovery of Delhi's treasures. Delve into the city's vibrant culture and history. As the day unfolds, you'll have the opportunity to explore Delhi's remarkable sights. When the sun sets, you'll depart for your return flight to Cochin.

Exclusions

Key Notes

Flights: as a reminder, volunteers are responsible for the payment and the booking of their airfares to and from Goa. Your hotel check-in is at 2pm (on Day 1) and your check-out is at 11am (on Day 4); so you will need to book your flights to Goa that arrive after 2pm (on Day 1) and depart on or before 11am (on Day 4).

One airport drop-off will be required if you are needing transport from the volunteer program to the airport for your flight. Another airport pick-up will be required if you will be requiring transport from the airport to the volunteer program after the tour.

A recommendation of a domestic airline that volunteers may like to check out if 'Indigo Airlines'.  Please keep in mind that generally luggage is limited to 15kgs as most domestic flights have this limit - if you plan to take your luggage back and fly home you should book extra luggage on these flights.

Timing: volunteers will need to leave for this trip on the Friday which means volunteers will need to finish a day early on the volunteer program.

Bookings: there are no bookings for this tour from the 13th of December until the 7th of January.