Incredible India & Holi Festival
March 8-17, 2025
Taj Mahal, Tigers & Holi Festival!
Come with us on an adventure to INCREDIBLE India!
On this 10 day adventure, you’ll explore the three cities known as the Golden Circle; New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. This area is known for featuring some of the country’s most spectacular sites. We will be visiting forts, palaces, temples and of course, the Taj Mahal. We will also make a stop to visit one of Northern India’s treasures, Ranthambore National Park, where we will have the opportunity to see the Bengal tiger in its natural habitat.
We will visit Taj Mahal for sunrise, explore Asia’s largest spice market, wander through centuries old palaces, forts and temples, learn to cook local dishes, head out on a safari to spot tigers and leopards and more. To top it off, we will finish our trip celebrating Holi, the festival of colors, celebrating love, new life and the victory of good over evil as spring season is welcomed. This is one of India’s biggest and most celebrated holidays of the entire year and we can’t wait to share it with you!
India is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered and we can’t wait to share this amazing country with you!
Day 1:
Welcome to INDIA!
Your trip begins with your arrival at the New Delhi International Airport (DEL). Most flights arrive after midnight, in the early morning hours.
You will be greeted by our driver who will be waiting for you and your fellow travelers with a Women Who Explore sign. You will be taken to your hotel for the evening to settle in and rest up before our incredible adventure begins!
Day 2:
New Delhi - markets & Monuments
Namaste or Good Morning!! Start your day with a fresh cup of chai tea and traditional breakfast with the group before we head out to explore India’s capital, New Delhi. With a history that goes back centuries and as the second most populous city in the world, there is much to discover here.
In the morning we will be picked up by our driver in a traditional rickshaw for a ride through the city as we make our way to Old Delhi where we will explore its labyrinth of narrow lanes, traditional Havelis and colorful bazaars. We begin with a stop at Asia’s largest spice market dating back to the 17th century where our senses will be dazzled with delicious fragrances. Next our rickshaw driver will take us to visit Jama Masjid before we stop for lunch.
In the afternoon we will visit a few historical monuments including Humayun’s Tomb, Ghandi Smitri, and Delhi’s oldest stepwell.
Tonight we will enjoy a group dinner where we will be delighted with fresh, traditional and flavorful Indian dishes. After dinner we will head back to the hotel for a good night’s rest.
Day 3:
agra - red fort & methab garden
Rise and shine - it’s chai time. After enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we will hop in the car with our personal driver as we make our way to Agra, home to one of the 7 Modern Wonders of the World.
As our journey begins, you will leave the bustling city and head into the countryside where you will get to experience a completely different side of this fascinating country. We will stop to enjoy lunch along the way. The drive is approximately 4-5 hours depending on traffic - gotta watch out for cows!
Once we arrive in Agra, we will head to the hotel to check in, unwind and freshen up. This afternoon we will be meeting up with a local guide to visit the Red Fort and Methab Gardens. The Red Fort of Agra served as both a military base and royal residence to the Mughal empire during their reign. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983. After hearing the stories of this interesting place, we will stop at Methab Gardens for a stroll and to watch the sunset with a breathtaking view of the Taj Mahal.
At our final stop of the day, we will meet local artisans whose skills and craftsmanship have been passed down through generations dating back to the time of the Mughal empire in the 1500s. After a hands-on demonstration, we will enjoy a group dinner out before heading back to our hotel and snuggling into bed. We will get some rest tonight because tomorrow’s adventure is an early one!
Day 4:
Taj Mahal-wonder of the modern world
Today is a HUGE BUCKET LIST DAY!!! Our driver and guide will pick us up in the wee hours of the morning and we will meet our guide who will delight us with stories of the Taj Mahal, what it represents, and how it was created. After hearing this magical story and taking all the photos, we will make our way back to the hotel to enjoy breakfast before checking out.
Today we leave Agra and drive to our next destination. Before we leave town, we will make a stop at Sheroes Hangout Cafe for snacks and drinks for the journey. This cafe is run by women who are survivors of acid attacks and started to give survivors a place to find acceptance, community, confidence and a means of income.
Along the way we will make a stop to enjoy lunch. After a 6+ hour journey, we will arrive at a peaceful and beautiful haveli outside of Ranthambore National Park. Here we will rest for the evening.
Tonight dinner is at your leisure and the rest of the evening you are free to relax and enjoy the property.
Day 5:
ranthamborhe National Park
Wake up sunshine - it’s tiger time!! Today we have another incredible adventure for you!! Today we are heading out in search of the Bengal tiger!
We will be up before sunrise so we can begin our safari drive through Ranthambore National Park, a sanctuary famous for its wildlife. Said to have one of India’s friendliest tigers, it is also considered to be the best place in the world to photograph Bengal tigers in their natural habitat. While our goal is to find a tiger, two, or three, other animals that call this beautiful space home include the leopard, nilgai, wild boar, sambar, sloth bear and striped hyena to name a few. This sanctuary is also home to one of the largest banyan trees in all of India. We think this place is pretty incredible and it will give you some serious Jungle Book vibes!
After a morning safari, we will head back to the hotel for a delicious breakfast and the rest of the day is yours to rest until our next safari. In the late afternoon, we head out again for a second safari in hopes of spotting a majestic tiger at sunset.
We will return to the property after where you are able to enjoy dinner at your leisure, relax and catch up on some sleep.
Day 6:
jaipur - rajasthan’s capital city + Cooking class
Suprabhat!! Today we will pack our bags after breakfast for our final drive of the trip. After a short 3 hours, we will arrive in Jaipur which is also known as the Pink City.
Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, is a vibrant blend of both old and new as it has been ruled by Rajput kingdoms for many centuries. This city has a lot to offer such as dazzling forts and palaces, art and textiles, colorful festivals and vibrant bazaars and so much more. Here there are endless places to explore!
Once we arrive, we will check in to our hotel and enjoy a light lunch. In the afternoon you will have some free time to relax sign up for a palm reading or henna tattoo, or head out to shop for textiles, jewelry or blue pottery all of which Jaipur is famous for.
Around 4 pm. we will meet back at our hotel for a hands-on cooking class. Our local chef will pick us up and take us to a local vegetable, spice and grains market to show us how and where locals shop. Once we pick up our ingredients, we will head back to the kitchen to learn about the spices and how they are used in local cuisine. We will use the ingredients we purchase at the market to make several delicious dishes that we will enjoy for dinner.
Tonight we have a special treat for you, grab your favorite snack because it’s movie night! For those interested in continuing your adventure today, there will be an option to head to Raj Mandir, one of the most famous cinemas in all of India, to catch their latest Bollywood screening.
Day 7:
holi - the Festival of colors
Today is another BUCKET LIST day and one you will always remember - it’s Holi festival!
Holi, known as the Festival of Colors, is a vibrant and exuberant celebration that takes place every year in India. This joyous festival usually falls in the spring, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and the arrival of a new season. During Holi, people gather with family and friends, smearing each other with brightly colored powders and drenching one another with water balloons and water guns. The streets come alive with a kaleidoscope of hues, as laughter and music fill the air. Traditional sweets and delicacies are shared, and communities unite to dance to traditional folk songs. The festival transcends social barriers, as people of all ages and backgrounds participate in the revelry. Holi is not only a time of merriment but also a reminder of the importance of unity and the fleeting nature of life, as participants let go of grudges and embrace the spirit of togetherness.
We will spend the day celebrating Holi at a local festival where you will be able smear color, enjoy local entertainment, tasty treats and dance as you share this experience with locals and other travelers from around the world. When we are ready, we will return back to the hotel to rest and shower before our evening out.
After we will enjoy dinner together on a beautiful rooftop terrace where we will try local cuisine and some delicious treats.
Day 8:
jaipur - the pink city + Street food
Today enjoy a leisurely breakfast before our adventure starts. Our first stop is the most famous Lassi shop in Jaipur for a tasty treat.
Next our guide will take us to visit stunning architectural sites of Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar and City Palace where we will learn about the history and stories that make these places so special. On our final stop as a group today we will enjoy lunch at the Curry Spoon, a stunning local restaurant that will make you feel like a royal.
The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore the city however you would like. We have optional activities planned for you to choose from, but you are also welcome to plan your own adventure, head out to shop, or relax with a massage. If you would like help making any additional arrangements, we are happy to assist.
One optional activity is a hand-block print workshop where you will learn how textiles are created and have the opportunity for hands-on experience to create your own print block fabric to take home with you. Jaipur is known for its textiles and designers from around the world come here to hand pick one even create their own fabrics so this is sure to be a fun and unique experience. If you prefer to relax, you can sign up for an Ayurvedic massage or head out on the town to explore some of the local artisan shops or one of the bazars.
Tonight if you are up for a foodie adventure, bring your appetite! We will meet up with the group at 6:45 p.m. for a guided street food tour where you will have the opportunity to taste 10 different local favorite dishes - or - you have the option to enjoy dinner at a place of your choice, Jaipur is full of exquisite restaurants with beautiful patios and stunning decor. The food tour is approximately 2-2.5 hours in length.
Day 9:
jaipur city tour + leopard safari
Today is your morning to choose your own adventure!! Enjoy a slow morning at the hotel, relax and sleep in, or choose to make it another BUCKET LIST day with an optional leopard safari. The Jhalana Leopard Safari Park is home to 30-35 leopards, and of that 6-7 leopards have their territory in the tourism area of the park. This otherwise shy cat is the apex predator here and does not have much competition for survival here which makes them more confident and therefore sightings are more likely. This park is becoming a favorite destination to spot leopards in the wild. Sightings are frequent but can not be guaranteed. If you choose to take the safari, you will leave before sunrise and you will be back at the hotel to enjoy a late breakfast.
Around 9:30 a.m. we will meet up for another full day of exploring the magnificent pink city. With our guide we will visit Amber Fort, Royal Gaitore, and a few other hidden gems as time permits. After hearing the fascinating stories of Jaipur’s royal families both past and present, we will take a break to enjoy a late lunch at a local restaurant.
The rest to the afternoon is yours, you will have free time to relax, head out to shop, or enjoy a massage. This is your time to spend however you want!
Tonight we will enjoy our final group dinner together at a beautiful restaurant in celebration of an incredible adventure through Northern India and all the memorable experiences we shared with our new friends!
Day 10:
namaste india, until we meet again!
It’s our final morning in Jaipur. We will enjoy breakfast together before packing our bags, checking out and saying our goodbyes.
If you are flying out later in the day and want to squeeze in one last adventure, choose from an optional activity such as a city cycling tour, hot air balloon ride, massage, or a some last minute shopping.
For those who need a transfer back to New Delhi, we suggest booking a direct one hour flight from Jaipur International Airport (JAI) and arriving at New Delhi International Airport at least 4 hours before your departure flight. As an alternative, a private car can be arranged if preferred, the drive is approximately a 4-5 hour from Jaipur to Delhi (DEL) airport depending on traffic.
Questions? Please reach out to Lindsey Egan at lindseyegan@womenwhoexplore.com
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$3,295 double occupancy in 4-star hotels, havelis and guesthouses.
If you are traveling solo, you will be assigned roommates upon request or you can request a single supplement upgrade (limited availabilty)
A deposit is due at booking to secure your spot and a payment plan is offered. Additional payments may be applied to the trip balance prior to payment dates.
Please note that once the trip is confirmed, the deposit is non-refundable for this trip as it is used to secure safari permits.
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• 10 days / 9 nights accommodations in 4 star hotels, havelis, and boutique homestays
• Private airport transfers from New Delhi International Airport (DEL) and to Jaipur International Airport (JAI)
• A local English speaking guide for tours in New Delhi, Agra, Fatephur Sikri and Jaipur
• Ranthambore National Park guided morning and afternoon Bengal tiger safaris
• Sunrise Safari through the Jhlana Leopard Preserve
• Rickshaw ride (tuk tuk) and guided tour of Old Delhi and New Delhi monuments
• Guided tour of Agra’s Red Fort, Methab Gardens and Taj Mahal
• Guided visit to Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Amber Fort, Royal Gaitore, and other hidden gems in Jaipur
• Experience Holi festival and celebrate with locals, color and t-shirts provided
• 3 hour hands-on cooking class including a visit to a local vegetable and spice market
• Guided street food tour with a local tasting 10 unique dishes in Jaipur
• Raj Mandir Cinema experience
• Henna tattoo by local artist
• Time to visit local and shop at local bazaars and textile, pottery and jewelry shops
• Private driver and transportation in an A/C car between domestic destinations, to tours, etc.
• Meals - 9 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 7 dinners
• All monument entrance fees and national park fees (Chhavi Niwa fee not included)
• All government taxes, tolls, parking fees and interstate taxes
• Women Who Explore trip leader with you and available for support 24/7
• Trip checklists, detailed packing list and pre-travel support provided in a private WhatsApp group
• WWE Swag to take home with you
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• Hot Air Balloon Ride - $360
• Hand-Block Print Class - $30
• Elephant Village - $60
All the excursions are available to add-on at the time of booking. Each option includes transportation to/from the activity and an English-speaking guide (or massage therapist)
For anyone arriving early or staying longer to explore India, customized trip packages are available through our local provider. Please inquire.
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• International flights to/from New Delhi International Airport (DEL)
• Airport transfers if arriving outside of designated arrival and departure dates and locations as noted. This can be arranged at an additional cost through our local service provide
• Alcohol, additional beverages, snacks and meals as noted above
• Tips and gratuity for local guides and driver (at the discretion of the guest)
• Any additional excursions or optional activities not included in the above
• Visa if applicable U.S. citizens and Canadian citizens are required to apply for an E-Visa ahead of time. Cost varies depending on length of visa requested. E-visa is $30 USD. Learn more here.
• Any travel related medical expenses such as immunizations, vaccinations, or required Covid-19 testing (not required for India as of 2/2023)
• Travel insurance (required)
• Personal expenses not included in the itinerary such as additional accommodations, transportation, souvenirs, etc.
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All meals will be provided as noted in the itinerary. Please share any food allergies/sensitivities at the time of booking or reach out to share with the trip host. We always do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions but cannot make any guarantees.
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This trip requires a minimum number of ladies to register in order for it to be confirmed. Once the trip reaches the minimum participant number, you will receive a trip confirmation email and a link to be added a private WhatsApp group just for trip guests. In this group further trip details will be provided along with pre-travel support.
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Please see our Terms of Service.
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Women Who Explore guests will be required to follow the local Covid-19 guidelines and requirements as set forth by the local governing body of the destination being visited.
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Travel (and medical) insurance is required for anyone traveling on a Women Who Explore adventure. Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. Your insurance policy should also include specific Covid-19 cover, including cancellation and curtailment cover if you or a close relative are diagnosed with Covid-19.
For recommended travel insurance providers click here.
If you purchase a Travel Select plan within 15 days of your initial trip deposit made (and insure your full trip cost), you would have two added eligible benefits for no additional premium: financial default and the pre-existing conditions waiver.
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Please note that the itinerary provided for your adventure is subject to change. While we strive to adhere to the proposed plan, unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, safety concerns, or other factors beyond our control may necessitate adjustments to the itinerary. We prioritize your safety and enjoyment throughout the adventure, and any modifications made will be done with careful consideration. We will make every effort to inform you in advance of any changes and provide suitable alternatives to ensure a fulfilling experience.