Discover the endless colors of India with our exclusive 13 Days of Color: Celebrate Holi in India Tour!
Immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of culture and history, from the bustling streets of Delhi to the majestic Taj Mahal in Agra and the regal splendor of Jaipur's pink-hued palaces. Enjoy a special dinner with a local family and marvel at the Taj Mahal at sunrise.
Explore lively markets with colorful textiles and aromatic spices, savoring India's renowned cuisine - from fiery curries to sweet masala chai from a roadside tea stall. Experience the country's diversity firsthand with visits to charming villages, where you can engage with locals, witness traditional crafts like carpet weaving and block printing, and enjoy Bollywood music.
The highlight of your trip awaits in Jaipur: celebrate the world-famous Holi festival, the vibrant Festival of Colors, Love and Spring! Join the locals and celebrate as they do, drenched in color, on the day that signifies the triumph of good over evil.
From royal elegance to the simple beauty of daily life, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. This is one bucket list trip you won't want to miss!
Our trips are specifically crafted for each group, ensuring every aspect is tailored to our preferences. You can trust us to provide the best and most unique tour possible, making your journey truly special! Join us for this incredible adventure through beautiful India, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
TRIP OVERVIEW
Trip Dates: March 9-20, 2025
Start Location: Delhi, India
End Location: Delhi, India
Accommodation: 12 nights
PAYMENT OPTIONS. We offer payment plan options! If you need a custom plan, please message us.
DISCOUNTS. Only one discount or promotional code can be applied to this trip.
CARBON OFFSET. We care about the future of our planet, so our customers have the option to contribute towards carbon offsets at checkout. Thank you for your support.
PHOTOS. We love to share our photos! Enjoy a shared photo gallery of pooled photos after every trip.
GRATUITIES. Gratuities are not required but greatly appreciated by locals in the tourism industry. For your convenience, we work to handle most tipping for you. See "What's Not Included" for specifics.
FLEXIBLE CANCELLATION. We offer a flexible cancellation policy: Read the full details in our Terms & Conditions.
At The Nomadic Network, we believe in creating a balance between group camaraderie and personal freedom.
Our small group tours are designed to foster deep connections with fellow travelers and the destinations we explore. While we encourage social interaction and shared adventures, we also respect your need for occasional solitude and personal reflection. There's no pressure to be social all the time—after all, this is your vacation.
We focus on meaningful, authentic experiences that allow you to connect deeply with locals and truly immerse yourself in each destination. Our goal is for you to leave with lasting memories, newfound friendships, and a rich appreciation of the beauty we've experienced together.
12 nights of accommodations
Private transport with driver
Arrival and departure transportation
Udaipur to Delhi
(12) breakfasts, (8) dinners, & (1) lunch
Local guide throughout trip
All activities and entrance fees listed
All day-to-day tips
Flights to/from the destination
Travel insurance is required
Any optional activities not listed
Optional gratuity for Expert Tour Leader, once at end of Tour (Recommended amount is $6-8/day pp)
Welcome to India! We will begin our adventure in Delhi, the capital city. Upon arrival at Delhi airport, our team will greet you and organize your transfer to the hotel.
Delhi, one of India's largest metropolitan cities, boasts a profound heritage. Its strategic location at the crossroads of major routes has shaped its pivotal role in Indian history, serving as the seat of numerous great empires over centuries.
Your journey begins with an evening welcome meeting at the hotel, where you'll meet your tour leader and fellow travelers. Once you're all settled in, join the group for a delightful welcome dinner featuring the best of Indian cuisine.
Meals: Dinner
We will start our day with a guided walking tour in Old Delhi, discovering the city's rich history and vibrant culture as we explore its bustling streets. Our journey will include a metro ride to visit a historic 18th-century Sikh Temple, followed by a leisurely stroll through the narrow alleys of Chandni Chowk market. Along the way, we'll take a break to enjoy chai at a beloved local street stall, fully immersing ourselves in the sights and sounds of this iconic location.
We'll then venture to Khari Baoli, Asia's largest Spice Market, where we'll encounter a diverse array of aromas and flavors. In the afternoon, we'll have the unique opportunity to experience local life firsthand with a visit to a family in a Delhi suburb for dinner. Here, we'll participate in cultural activities such as saree draping accompanied by Bollywood music, culminating in an authentic feast of Indian cuisine shared with our hospitable hosts.
This day promises to deliver a mix of adventure, cultural exploration, and warm local hospitality—a perfect introduction to the heart and soul of India.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Prepare to explore another enchanting city, famous for the Taj Mahal. We'll journey to Agra, where our day begins with a visit to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
We'll later delve into the local market to discover why Agra is renowned for its incredibly beautiful carpets. During the era of Emperor Akbar, skilled Persian immigrants settled here as carpet weavers. The early Agra weavings, known as Mughal Carpets, are characterized by their vibrant red backgrounds and intricate Safavid designs and weaving techniques.
These carpets were meticulously crafted in established workshops across northern and central India, with Agra emerging as a prominent center. This rich history is why carpet demonstrations hold such prestige in this region.
Additionally, you have the option to visit Sheroes Café, a heartwarming initiative run by acid attack survivors.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, our journey begins with an unforgettable visit to one of the world's most breathtaking marvels, the Taj Mahal, at sunrise. This iconic monument bathed in golden morning light offers a truly enchanting sight, away from the usual crowds.
After enjoying breakfast, we will settle in for a scenic journey to Ranthambore in our private transportation. Ranthambore is renowned for its treasured national park, globally famous as one of the finest places to spot tigers in their natural habitat. Beyond its wildlife, the region boasts ancient temples, mosques, and a diverse ecosystem thriving amidst its scenic landscapes.
Upon reaching Ranthambore, you can explore the charming town or unwind by the pool, anticipating an exhilarating day of wildlife safaris planned for tomorrow.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
We will start our day with an early morning safari at Ranthambore National Park, renowned for its majestic Indian tigers. This prime time increases our chances of thrilling tiger sightings, while also offering a delightful treat for bird enthusiasts with the morning chorus of diverse bird species.
After the morning adventure, guests can unwind and enjoy a leisurely lunch at our restaurant before preparing for our next safari. Our safaris are extensive, allowing ample opportunity to encounter not only tigers but also a variety of other fascinating wildlife.
Upon returning from our evening safari, guests will have time to freshen up and relax in the comfort of our accommodations. This break provides the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate amidst the beauty of this incredibly serene property.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, we will depart for Jaipur, famously known as the Pink City. This afternoon we will delve into the art of block printing, where we will learn about its origins and participate in a workshop to create our own prints.
Later in the evening, we will embark on a unique and very special rickshaw ride through the city, guided by female drivers in their distinctive pink rickshaws. This ride will take us through bustling market lanes, providing us with a glimpse into the vibrant local life. Along the way, we will pass by the illuminated Albert Hall Museum, adding to the charm of the pink city at night.
This initiative is not just about exploration, but also about supporting a meaningful cause. By riding with these female rickshaw drivers, we are actively contributing to a new and aspirational employment opportunity for 200 women from low-income households in Jaipur. It's a journey that blends cultural immersion with social impact, making our visit to Jaipur both enriching and memorable.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, we will start our day by visiting the beautiful Amer Fort, also known as the Amber Palace. Built with red sandstone and marble, this historic fort overlooks the Maotha Lake, adding to its picturesque setting. While the exterior may reflect its age, the interior reveals its true splendor, featuring prominent structures like the 'Diwan-i-Aam' (Hall of Public Audience), the 'Sheesh Mahal' (Hall of Mirrors), and the 'Sukh Mahal' (Hall of Pleasure). The architecture of Amer Fort seamlessly blends Hindu and Muslim influences, offering a fascinating glimpse into India's rich cultural heritage.
Jaipur is not only renowned for its magnificent forts and history but also for its traditional jewelry and gemstones. As one of India’s most famous cities, Jaipur captivates with its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural scene. It has long been celebrated as a center for exquisite craftsmanship and boasts a diverse array of precious gemstones, making it a must-visit destination for gem enthusiasts worldwide.
This is a free evening. Consider taking in a Bollywood movie or other activity that allows you time to relax and unwind after a day filled with exploration and cultural immersion.
Meal: Breakfast
Today is a very special day! We will immerse ourselves in the joyous celebration of Holi, the vibrant Hindu festival known as the Festival of Colours, Love, and Spring. It's a time-honored tradition that not only rejoices in the arrival of spring but also celebrates the enduring love between Radha and Krishna, two revered deities in Hindu mythology.
As we join in the festivities, we'll experience the streets coming alive with laughter, music, and the playful splashing of brightly colored powders known as "gulal." We will participate in the rituals of applying colors to each other's faces, a gesture that signifies spreading love and happiness. Alongside locals, we'll indulge in traditional sweets and a hearty lunch, savoring the flavors that define this joyous occasion.
This will be a free evening, one that gives us an opportunity to relax and rejuvenate. Whether it's quietly reflecting on the day's experiences or simply enjoying time to explore amidst the festive atmosphere, the evening offers a chance to unwind and soak in the cultural richness of Holi.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning we will settle in for a scenic drive to Bundi, a picturesque town with a rich history dating back to the 12th century. Our journey will take approximately three hours, allowing us to enjoy the changing landscapes as we leave the bustling city behind.
Bundi, famously known for inspiring Rudyard Kipling's novel "Kim," is a hidden gem in Rajasthan. The town is celebrated for its intricate series of step wells (baoris), historic old houses, and the majestic Taragarh Fort. As we approach Bundi, we will be treated to an unforgettable view from the highway, with the town's historic architecture set against a backdrop of rolling hills.
Upon our arrival, we will delve into Bundi's rich cultural heritage by visiting the awe-inspiring Taragarh Fort. This impressive structure, perched on a hillside, offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside. Following our visit to the fort, we will wander through the town to see the famous step wells, marveling at their unique designs and historical significance.
As evening descends, we will soak in the tranquil ambiance of this quaint town. Bundi's charm and character will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression, making this day a memorable part of our journey.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, we will be visiting Udaipur, the city often referred to as "the Venice of the East".
Udaipur is also famously known as the Lake City. Located in the southernmost part of Rajasthan, it is nestled amidst the Aravali Range, which provides a natural barrier from the Thar Desert. The city is strategically positioned almost midway between two major Indian metro cities, Delhi and Mumbai, with additional connectivity to Gujarat ports.
As we explore Udaipur, we will immerse ourselves in the vibrant day-to-day life of the city, walking from fragrant markets to serene ghats. Lunch and dinner are on your own today, so you'll have lots of freedom to explore, and to discover the unique charm and cultural heritage that beautiful Udaipur has to offer.
Meal: Breakfast
After breakfast, we will visit the mesmerizing City Palace, located in the central-northeast part of Jaipur. This area is laid out in a unique pattern with wide avenues, housing a complex of several courtyards, buildings, pavilions, gardens, and temples. A stunning fusion of Mughal and Rajput architecture, the palace is still home to the last ruling royal family, who reside in a private section. While Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II is credited with building most of the structures, later rulers expanded upon his work, enhancing the palace's grandeur.
We will also stroll around the old city, visit the beautiful Jagdeesh Temple and enjoy a boat ride on the lake! This will be a relaxing day, soaking in the city's vibrant atmosphere and exploring its markets.
In the evening, we will participate in a truly special and immersive hands-on cooking experience with a local woman who has been empowering many married women in the city. Through her cooking classes, she teaches traditional Rajasthani cuisine to people from all around the world, providing an authentic taste of local flavors and culture. This unique experience will not only allow us to learn the art of Rajasthani cooking but also offer insight into the lives and stories of the women she supports.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, we will fly back to Delhi, where the afternoon will be yours to relax and unwind.
In the evening, we will gather together for a very special farewell dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
It will be so sad to say goodbye! After a last hearty breakfast, you and the group will transfer back to the airport for your flights home. Thank you for joining us on this wonderful adventure!
Meal: Breakfast
