Back by popular demand, is our #MyLifesATravelTribe INDIA group trip during HOLI! If you've seen our photos, or if India has always been on your travel bucketlist but you don't want to go alone, definitely join this trip!
We've secured our private Holi party at the famous rooftop overlooking the Wind Palace in Jaipur (The Tattoo Cafe and Lounge), which no one else has ever gotten to do before, and our feedback from last year said that the event was above and beyond amazing! This also ensures that you can have a lot of fun while also staying safe, as street Holi festivities are known for inappropriate touching...
Your experience is as important as your safety for us, and Alyssa, as well as our local guides go above and beyond to ensure that!
We fully plan and execute every detail of this trip, including getting you those token photos, so all you have to do is show up!
So get ready to check off a World Wonder from your bucketlist, as well as an epic cultural festival!
NOTE: In order to keep our group size a bit smaller, we are aiming to do TWO trips, that overlap on Holi so everyone can celebrate on Holi. If you might prefer to do the second week, please either wait for that one to post, or sign up here and make a note of it on the booking!
(mandatory)
We will wake up early and continue our tour of Delhi! First we will go to Jama Masjid mosque for some photos, and then brave the bustling Chandi Chawk Market!
We will take a rickshaw through the crazy market streets, and then have some free time to shop in the area that sells the fabulous shoes, bangles, and sarees.
Later, around 3-4pm, we will board our bus and drive to Agra (4 hours).
Overnight in Jaypee Agra or similar
This morning we will visit the Agra Fort a UNESCO World Heritage; the imposing structure on the banks of the river Yamuna is replete with priceless examples of craftsmanship in the Mughal period. It blends the Hindu and central Asian architectural styles very beautifully. Built by Emperor Akbar, the maze of courtyards, mosques and private chambers of the fort, echo the story of the Mughal Empire.
You will get your first view of the Taj Mahal here!
Afterwards we will head back to the hotel for lunch, so that you also have time to enjoy the beautiful hotel and pool, and rest up a bit!
Later we will do a sunset visit to Mehtab Bagh for splendid views of Taj Mahal.
One of the most magical views of the Taj Mahal can be found at the gorgeous Mehtab Bagh which stands for “moonlit pleasure garden” in Urdu. This gorgeous historic pleasure garden is a great way to see the Taj Mahal without all the crowds.
Afterwards we will do a quick evening visit to some local markets and return back to hotel.
Overnight in Jaypee Palace Agra or similar
The moment you've all been waiting for! We'll use Alyssa's proven strategy of waking up at 4am to get dressed in our sarees (optional) and head to the Taj Mahal, in order to be first in line when it opens at sunrise. This will ensure that we get the token photos with no people in them, and trust us, it's worth it!
We'll quickly get our shots in front of the Taj Mahal, then you will have free time to wander, take more photos, and visit the inside of the Taj Mahal where the actual tombs are. We will fully brief you on where to find the best photo angles, and about how to hire a local person to assist you with photos if you'd like.
We will spend just 1.5 hours there, and will leave just as the crowds arrive.
More info about the Taj Mahal: the epitome of love, stands on the banks of the
river Yamuna built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shahjahan. The Taj attracts millions of tourists from all over the world. To experience the beauty of this architectural marvel, it needs to be viewed at different times of the day and year. The white marble building changes its hue with the variations in the daylight. Made entirely of white marble and decorated with exquisite pietra dura (stone inlay) work, different types of precious and semi-precious stones were used in the intricate
inlay work done on the interiors. This magnificent monument is built around a Charbagh or ’four garden’ plan, split by watercourses— reflects the influence of Persian architectural style.
We will then go back to hotel for breakfast and later drive to Jaipur with en-route visit of Abaneri Step well and the Patrika Gate.
Upon arrival in Jaipur, check in at hotel.
Overnight in Jaipur at Trident hotel or similar
After an early breakfast we will take a guided tour of the Amber Fort, the ancient
capital of Rajasthan and the majestic palace complex to witness a unique system of air-conditioning of 17thcentury (which clearly doesn't work since it's a bit hot there). A beautiful complex of Palaces, halls, pavilions, garden and temples, it still stands in magnificent state. The red sandstone and white Marble palace has some very interesting apartments- Diwan-I-Am, Ganesh Pol, Sheesh Mahal, Sukh Niwas, Jai Mandir, Man Singh Palace and Shila Devi Temple.
Next we will stop for lunch, then head to the City Palace for some beautiful architectural views! If there's time, and if you'd like, you can go to the many shops that are walking distance from the City Palace before dinner.
Overnight at Trident Jaipur or similar
Get ready to experience Holi in India in the most fabulous, breathtaking, exciting way possible! Thanks to our awesome friends Juhi and Karan, the owners of the Tattoo Cafe and Shop, we have been able to rent out their entire rooftop again for our event!
Professional event decorators will transform the rooftop into something magical, you'll feel like your life's a travel movie! ;) Holi powder, flower petals, live music, and lunch are included, as well as two beers each. If you'd like to bring your own wine or alcohol, feel free!
We'll spend a few hours partying and playing Holi, then go back to the hotel to shower and rest for a bit before dinner!
NOTE: Today the second group will join us at the Holi party! We are doing two groups in order to keep the number of guests on each trip down.
Overnight at Trident Jaipur or similar
You'll be able to sleep in for once, and then after breakfast you'll start the long drive back to Delhi (between 5-6 hours). There aren't many restaurants along the way, so we'll likely stop at an Indian McDonald's where you can try some unique items like paneer burgers! There's also Subway, Dominos, and local food options.
If you're feeling up to it, when you get back to Delhi, you can take an uber to go back to Kahn Market!
Sadly this is the last night together, so enjoy one last dinner!
*NOTE: Alyssa and Jena will stay in Jaipur to continue onto the second group trip
Overnight at Vivanta by Taj
Sadly it's time to head back home, or to your next adventure! Transfers are included and will be arranged according to your flight, no matter how early it is!
Days are subject to change depending on those who book. We may be able to make this add on prior too the 7 day Holi trip, or after. This itinerary is based on after, just as an example.
Day 1 of Add On (Day 08 of entire trip): Delhi – Mumbai By: Flight
Morning-transfer to Delhi airport to board the flight to Mumbai.
Mumbai – it is the city that never sleeps! Pulsating, Alive and on the move, Vibrant and Fun. Over the years, as colonialism gave way to independence, Mumbai has transformed itself into an entity with thriving markets, businesses, houses and many different communities reflecting a cosmopolitan and trendy atmosphere rarely seen elsewhere. On the surface, it represents the ever-changing face of today's India -- the old coupled with the dynamic new, and yet at its very core, the heart of the city is steeped in Indian customs and values. Evening free for leisure.
Day 2 of add on (Day 09 of entire trip): Mumbai
-Post breakfast proceed for city tour of Mumbai. The tour starts from the Gateway of India. Gateway of India is the landmark of Bombay, which, was before the advent of air travel, the only gateway to India. It was built to commemorate the visit of King George and Queen Mary to India in 1911. You will be then driven along Marine Drive, the sea - front Boulevard. It is also known as the Queen’s Necklace as in the evening, the breeze from the Arabian Sea comes over Marine Drive and as the streetlights on this U-shaped road light up, the view from south Bombay’s skyscrapers or from the exclusive residential area, is that of a Queen’s Necklace. Your first stop will be the Jain Temples, built of marble and dedicated to the first Jain Tirthankara. From the temples you will be driven along Malabar Hill via the Tower of Silence - a round stone construction on which Parsis place their dead to be eaten by the vultures and Hanging Gardens which is built over Bombay’s reservoir. From here one can get a panoramic view of picturesque Marine Drive. From Malabar Hill you will be driven to the Dhobi Ghats (IF THE TIME PERMITS) a huge open-air laundry, which makes an interesting viewing. Rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 3 of Add On (Day 10 of entire trip): Mumbai
-Morning: The Mumbai Dreams, Bollywood Tour
India is still the largest film producer of the world, producing an average of 1000 films a year. Since 1931, when the talkies were introduced, India has produced more than 67,000 films in more than 30 languages. Today Bollywood - the Hindi cinema counterpart of Hollywood - is no longer catering to a limited audience, it has gathered a large worldwide audience, especially among the NRI's through its international quality along with the blending of east and west. Bollywood has come a long way since 1896 when soundless movies made its advent into India with the Lumiere Brothers. The Mumbai Dreams offers a look into the magical world of the Indian entertainment industry. Experience Bollywood and the TV industry of India. The tour offers products that are exciting, entertaining and engaging. Clients will also have the opportunity to watch a live TV shoot. While driving to the various locations, you will be updated with the latest trivia, gossips, trends and fads of the industry by your effervescent host.
Day 4 of Add On (Day 11 of entire trip): Depart Mumbai
-Today you will be met and transferred to Mumbai international airport to board your flight back home.
Cost Per Person
Option 1 – Deluxe Hotels – 4 Star
Option 2 – Superior Hotels – 5 Star
Per Person cost based on 2 Adults Traveling together
Option 1 - USD 825 Per Person on Twin Sharing basis
Option 2 - USD 968 Per Person on Twin Sharing basis
Airfare for sector Delhi – Mumbai in Economy class Subject to change at the time of booking USD 85 Per Person Note: - At all hotels base category room is included in pricing.
Hotels: Day City Deluxe – 4 Star Superior – 5 Star Day 08-11 (03 Nights) Mumbai Fariyas / The Gordon House Trident Nariman Point Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Trip Includes:
-Accommodation: As specified in the itinerary on a twin share basis for: 3 nights
-Meals: 4 Breakfasts at the hotels mentioned above
-Transport: All transfers (arrival/departure), sightseeing tours & inter-city drives will be provided by air-conditioned Innova or Similar for upto 4 Pax.
-Foxplore Travels Tours representative for all arrival / departure transfers at the airports.
-Guides: A local English speaking guide for the sightseeing tour of Mumbai Monument:
- All monument entrances as mentioned in the itinerary for 1 time visit (Camera fee charges not included)
-Bollywood City Tour Other inclusions: 5% GST Daily & 2 water bottles per person while traveling
The Above Cost Does Not Include:
-Optional Excursions / activities mentioned or not mentioned in the itinerary;
-Lunch or Dinner Tips of personal nature and other incidental expenses; Camera Charges; Porterages & Visa Fee, Any airfare Tips ,Insurance fee , laundry and phone calls and Any other costs incurred due to unforeseen circumstances / natural disasters..
This Extension is taking Place After the Main India Trip:
Goa, A kaleidoscopic blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures, sweetened with sun, sea, sand, seafood, susegad and spirituality. Goa is India's pocket-sized paradise. The golden sandy beaches with the fusion of Indian and European cultures define the smallest Indian state of Goa. It is one of the alluring tourist destinations that offer a relaxed and fun-filled vacation by the sea. Delightful Goa Vacations are about beautiful beaches, happening parties, laid-back life, and delicious food.
Goa Extension Day 1 (Day 8 of India Trip)
Delhi – Goa By Flight
Fly from Delhi to Goa. On arrival in Goa you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Evening free for leisure. Overnight in Goa.
Goa Extension Day 2 (Day 9 of India Trip)
Full day combined city tour of North & South Goa including visits to Calangute beach, Anjuna beach, Candolim beach, Fort Aguada area, Old city of Goa, Basilica of Bom Jesus Church, Museum of Christian art, Chapora fort, Maragoa, Menezes Braganza mansion, Mangueshi temple, Panaji city etc. Evening return back to hotel.
Goa Extension Day 3 (Day 10 of India Trip)
leisure Day. Relax on beaches
Goa Extension Day 4 (Day 11 of India Trip)
Depart Goa Today: You will be met and transferred to Mumbai or Delhi international airport to board the connecting flights back home.
Hotels: Day City Deluxe 5 Star Premium 5 Star-Day 8 – 11 (3 Nights)
Deluxe 5 Star Options: Novotel Goa Resort & Spa / Holiday Inn Candolim / The O
Premium 5 Star Options: Hyatt Goa / Taj Fort Aguada Resort & SpaGrand
Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Our quote includes:
-Accommodation: As specified in the itinerary on twin share basis for 3 nights
-Meals: 3 Breakfasts at the hotels mentioned above
-Transport: All transfers (arrival/departure), sightseeing tours & inter-city drives will be provided by air-conditioned Innova or Similar for upto 4 Pax.
-Foxplore Travels Tours representative for all arrival / departure transfers at the airports.
-Guides: A local English speaking guide for the sightseeing tour of Goa Monument: -All monument entrances as mentioned in the itinerary for 1 time visit (Camera fee charges not included)
-Other inclusions: 5% GST Daily 2 water bottles per person while traveling
The Above Cost Does Not Include:
Optional Excursions / activities mentioned or not mentioned in the itinerary; Lunch or Dinner, Tips of personal nature and other incidental expenses; Camera Charges; Porterages & Visa Fee, Any airfare Tips ,Insurance fee , laundry and phone call and Any other cost incurred due to unforeseen circumstances / natural disasters..
Costs:
Option 1 – 5 Star Deluxe Hotels: Per Person cost based on 2 Adults Traveling together $752 Per Person on Twin Sharing basis
Option 2 – 5 Star Premium Hotels: $1065 Per Person on Twin Sharing basis
Day 1 (Day 8 of the total India trip)
Delhi to Dehradun- By Flight35 Kms / 1 Hour approx
Dehradun to Rishikesh:
-In the morning fly to Dehradun. On arrival you will be met and driven to Rishikesh. Check in at your hotel.
Rishikesh, the 'place of sages' is a celebrated spiritual town on the bank of Ganga and is surrounded by Shivalik range of the Himalayas on three sides. It is an ideal destination not only for pilgrims but also for those who want to delve deeper into meditation, yoga and other aspects of Hinduism. Rishikesh is also called the ‘Yoga capital of the world’. Evening free for leisure.
Day 2 (Day 9 of the total India trip)
In the morning you'll visit: Laxman Jhula: One of the most prominent places in Rishikesh, Laxman Jhula is a 450-feet long suspension bridge at the height of 70 feet from the river. Built in the year 1939, the bridge is an important attraction as it is believed that it is the same place where Lord Laxman crossed the Ganga River on a jute rope. Ram Jhula: A few miles downstream from Laxman Jhula is the Ram Jhula. As you cross this bridge, you will witness the Himalayas peeking out of clouds on clear days and the Ganga River gushing down in full flow. It does make for a scenic vista which you don’t want to mis s when in Rishikesh. The bridge is also renowned for linking two popular ashrams of the town – Swarg Ashram on one end and the Sivananda Ashram on the other. About 450 feet long, this bridge offers breath-taking views of valleys and the temples around. Walk slowly if you want to take it all in. Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Parmarth Niketan is among the top places to visit in Rishikesh if you are an ardent Yoga follower. Established in the year 1942, this ashram has grown into one of the biggest spiritual places in the country. Triveni Ghat: It is one of the most famous ghats in Rishikesh and makes for a beautiful place to watch the evening Ganga Aarti. The sanctity of the Ghat comes from the legend that it sees the confluence of three major rivers – Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. The ghat is considered sacred and if Hindu mythology is to be believed, it is said that a dip in the holy water of Ganga near the ghat can purge all your sins. After all, this ghat has been mentioned in both our epics – Ramayana and Mahabharata. At sunset witness the famous ‘Ganga Aarti ‘performed by young Hindu monks at Parmarth Ashram. Every evening, as dusk descends, the banks of the river Ganges in the holy city of Rishikesh, light up with oil lamps breaking the darkness of the night and the resonating sounds of the hymns breaking the silence of the surroundings. Held at a picturesque location of the bank of the river at Parmarth Niketan Ashram, in front of a huge Shiva statue built on the river, the aarti here is performed not by Pandits but by resident children of the ashram, dressed in their saffron robes, who gather together each evening along with an intimate gathering of devotees to offer their prayers to the holy Ganga. As the sun sets the Shiva statue is lighted up and the ceremony commences with the singing of devotional songs, followed by ‘hawan’-offerrings to the fire god and culminates with the Aarti with lamps passed on from people to people and the children singing along with the spiritual head of the ashram in sweet melodious voices. The glowing oil lamps, the ringing temple bells, the brightly dressed little monks and the chanting of hymns is a truly serene and divine experience that stays with you for a long long time.
Day 3 (Day 10 of the total India trip)
Rishikesh-is at leisure to enjoy on your own (Vehicle on your disposal for local use). Optional Tour: Visit to The Beatles Ashram (19 Kms from Rishikesh) After the Beatles visited the ashram to do transcendental meditation, the outlook on Indian spirituality changed the world over. The time the Beatles spent at the ashram is touted as one of their most productive periods where they wrote plenty of songs. If you are a Beatles fan, you have to visit the ashram and soak in its tranquility. The place is not maintained properly but still, the ruins look beautiful. Just find a spot inside the ashram and spend some time meditating.
Day 4 (Day 11 of the total India trip)
Rishikesh – Dehradun By Car – 1 Hour
Dehradun – Delhi By Flight
Transfer to Dehradun airport to board the flight back to Delhi. Arrive in Delhi and make your way to your International flight from the same terminal.
Cost Per Person:
Option 1 – Deluxe Hotels
Option 2 – Superior Hotels Per Person
Option 1 - Per Person cost based on 2 Adults Traveling together is $768 Per Person on Twin Sharing basis
Option 2- $876 Per Person on Twin Sharing basis
Airfare for sector Delhi-Dehradun-Delhi in economy class Subject to change $125 Per Person
Note: - At all hotels base category room is included in pricing.
Day 8 – 11 (3 Nights)
Delux Options: Rishikesh Summit on the Ganges or Similar
Superior Options: Neemrana Glassshouse on the Ganges / Aloha on the Ganges / Raga on the Ganges
Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Includes:
-Accommodation: As specified in the itinerary on twin share basis for 3 nights
-Meals: 3 Breakfasts at the hotels mentioned above
-Transport: All transfers (arrival/departure), sightseeing tours & inter-city drives will be provided by air-conditioned Innova or Similar for up to 4 Pax.
-Foxplore Travels Tour representative for all arrival / departure transfers at the airports.
-Guides: A local English speaking guide for the sightseeing tour of Rishikesh -Experiences: Ganga Aarti ceremony
-Monument: All monument entrances as mentioned in the itinerary for 1 time visit (Camera fee charges not included)
-Other inclusions: 5% GST & Daily 2 water bottles per person while traveling
The Above Cost Does Not Include:
Optional Excursions / activities mentioned or not mentioned in the itinerary; Lunch or Dinner Tips of personal nature and other incidental expenses; Camera Charges; Porterages & Visa Fee, Any airfare, Tips ,Insurance fee , laundry and phone calls. Any other cost incurred due to unforeseen circumstances / natural disasters..
Tour Highlights:
-Witness the oldest form of dance i.e. Kathakali.
-Enjoy overnight stay on the world famous backwater’s of Alleppey
-Enjoy spice plantations tour in Thekkady
-Periyar Lake boat ride
Day 1 -(Day 8 of the full India Trip):
Delhi - Cochin By: Flight
Cochin-Thekkady By: Car – 140 Kms/3 Hours approx
In the morning fly to Cochin. On arrival you will be met by a Foxplore Travels representative and transfered to Thekkady. On arrival check in at your hotel. Evening enjoy a boat ride at Lake Periyar. Overnight at Cochin
Day 2-(Day 9 of the full India Trip):
Thekkady - Alleppey By: Car – 130 Kms / 3 Hours approx
Post breakfast, proceed for the visit to Spice Plantation. Spice Plantation Visit at Periyar – The spice plantations in Kerala are captivating farms to wander in, since different spices are cultivated in different sections of each plantation. Visitors can gain rich knowledge about Ayurvedic cure, spice extracts, wood crafting etc. Visitors can be familiar with the various operations in spice growing and processing like planting, harvesting, drying, preparing spice extracts etc.
Later you will be driven to Alleppey where you'll board your houseboat comprising of fully furnished bedrooms, a sundeck, an open lounge and a full crew. Fringing the coast of Kerala and winding far inland is a vast network of lagoons, lakes, rivers and canals. You'll enjoy a leisurely exploration cruise of the Kerala Backwaters, floating through these placid waters passing palm fringed canals, lakes and villages as you observe the locals going about their daily lives. Have lunch and dinner on board.
Day 3 (Overnight on board houseboat Day 10 of Full India Trip):
Alleppey-Cochin By: Surface – 130 Kms / 3 Hours approx
Disembark the houseboat and drive to Cochin. Known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea", Cochin was an important spice trading centre on India's West Coast from the 14th Century and remained the centre of India's worldwide spice trade for many centuries to come. Later proceed for a tour of the Fort Cochin area during which you see the famous Chinese fishing nets and may also encounter the day's catch being auctioned on the beach. You'll walk through the Old Town around Mattancherry Jetty, you'll visit St Francis Church of Cochin and tour the Mattancherry Palace (also known as the "Dutch Palace"). You'll then stroll through Jew Town where the oldest synagogue in India is located. This evening you are taken out to experience a Kathakali Dance performance, having originated in the state of Kerala during the 17th Century. Kathakali is a stylised classical Indian synthesis of dance, drama and music which will amaze you with its colour and grace.
Day 4-(Overnight at Cochin Day 11 of full India Trip): Cochin-Cochin airport drop (By Car – 1½ hours drive) After breakfast you will be transferred to Cochin airport to board the flight back to home.
Hotels:
Option 1 Deluxe Hotel – 4 Star: Cardamom County / Greenwoods Resort, Deluxe Houseboat, Radisson Blu / The Gateway Marine Drive
Option 2 Superior –5 Star Hotel: Poetree Sarovar Portico / Cardamom County, Superior Houseboat, Cochin Old Harbor / Eighth Bastion / Le Meridian
Option 1 Price based on 2 people traveling together: $853
Per Person on Twin Sharing basis
Option 2 Price based on 2 people traveling together: $935
Per Person on Twin Sharing basis
Meal Plan:
Bed & Breakfast at all hotels except during stay at Houseboat where all 3 meals are included
Our quote includes:
Accommodation: As specified in the itinerary on twin share basis for 3 nights
Meals: 4 Breakfasts at the hotels mentioned above : All 3 meals whilst stay at Houseboat
Transport: All transfers (arrival/departure), sightseeing tours & inter-city drives will be provided by air-conditioned Innova or Similar for upto 4 Pax.
Foxplore Travels Tours representative for all arrival / departure transfers at the airports.
Guides & Entrances:
A local English speaking guide for the sightseeing tours and excursions as per program
All monument entrances + Boat Ride at Lake Periyar included
Spice Plantations tour in Thekkady Monument
All monument entrances as mentioned in the itinerary for 1 time visit (Camera fee charges not included)
Other inclusions: 5% GST Daily 2 water bottles per person while traveling
Imp Note: Dutch Palace is closed on Fridays & National Holidays and Jewish Synagogue is closed on Fridays, Saturday and Jewish holidays
The Above Cost Does Not Include:
Optional Excursions / activities mentioned or not mentioned in the itinerary; Lunch or Dinner Tips of personal nature and other incidental expenses; Camera Charges; Porterages & Visa Fee, Any airfare Tips ,Insurance fee , laundry and phone calls, Any other cost incurred due to unforeseen circumstances / natural disasters..
The Travel Tribe Group Adventure Community is an adventure travel group trip community created by Alyssa Ramos of My Life's a Travel Movie. We have been running group trips with our audience for over 10 years now, aiming to enhance your bucketlist experiences while also giving back to local communities! These group trips are for like-minded travelers, who love exploring the road less traveled! Our itineraries are carefully curated by Alyssa, based on her own solo travels in the destinations, and we use local companies only to support them!
