Combine a tour of the famous Golden Triangle with the exuberant festivities of Holi - India’s most dazzling celebration, when streets throughout the country are transformed into a kaleidoscope of color.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Delhi
Sunday 09th March 2025. On arrival in Delhi you are met at the airport and transferred to our hotel. The rest of today is free to explore India’s capital at leisure before meeting the group and guide at the hotel at 18:00 for a Welcome meeting.
For those able to arrive very early today or the day prior, why not get off the beaten track and explore Old Delhi with us on our optional 'Backstreets of Delhi' add-on tour. You will get to relish the taste of various street foods, from savory to sweet. Along the way, visit Khari Baoli, the largest spice market in India and the colorful Bazar Matia Mahal, located opposite the majestic Jama Masjid Mosque. The tour will combine a mixture of metro, electric rickshaw and walking to get around.
Overnight: Delhi
Old & New Delhi
Delhi - Agra. This morning we enjoy a packed day of sightseeing in Old and New Delhi. Check out the UNESCO-listed Humayun’s Tomb and Jama Masjid - India’s oldest and largest mosque. Visit the iconic Sikh temple, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib and its community kitchen feeding 25,000-30,000 people daily. We also enjoy a thrilling rickshaw ride around the Chandni Chowk bazaar and explore New Delhi. Walk down the Rajpath, formerly known as the ‘King’s Way’ and see the famous India Gate monument.
Later this afternoon we depart Delhi and head to Agra, the home of the famous Taj Mahal. Upon arirval we'll check into our hotel and this evening we enjoy a group Namaste dinner.
Overnight: Agra | Breakfast, Dinner
Taj Mahal
Agra - Karauli/Dholpur. Early this morning we'll visit the legendary Taj Mahal for sunrise, India’s most famous site. This iconic white monument was built by the Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century in memory of his beloved wife. It is perhaps the most extravagant symbol of love the world has ever seen and has no rival. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity watch the sunset fade over the magnificent mausoleum so make sure to take plenty of photos!
After breakfast back at the hotel we will make our way to the impressive Agra Fort, which boasts some of India's finest Mughal buildings behind its fortified walls.
Continue to either Karauli or Dholpur stopping for lunch en route. In Karauli, we will stay in the beautiful Palace Bhanwar Vilas. An eclectic melding of both Oriental and Art Deco architecture, the heritage-listed hotel was built in 1938 as a family home of the Maharaja of Jaipur. In Dholpur, we will stay at the magnificent Raj Niwas Palace, which is known for its red sandstone, traditional Rajisthani architecture, and European-style ceramics. It's said that this heritage-listed hotel was built by the Maharaja to welcome HRH Albert Edward, who visited in 1876.
Spend the afternoon at your leisure exploring the grounds, perhaps check out the vintage cars or take a dip in the swimming pools. This evening, you can also opt to attend the evening Aarti (prayer).
Overnight: Karauli or Dholpur | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Jaipur
Karauli/Dholpur - Jaipur. Travel to Jaipur today and head out on a tour of the illustrious City Palace and the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar Space Observatory, which features 19 separate astrological instruments.
Overnight: Jaipur | Breakfast
Jaipur
Jaipur. This morning we will visit the impressive 16th century palace complex, Amber Fort. A jeep will take you to the sprawling fortress, which is laid out over four levels and overlooks the shimmering Maota Lake.
The remainder of the day is at your leisure, why not opt to explore the Johari Bazaar in the Old Pink City.
Overnight: Jaipur | Breakfast
Holi
Jaipur. Friday 14th March 2025. Today is the day that India celebrates the fabulous Holi Festival. This ancient Hindu festival originated as a celebration of the end of winter and beginning of spring in honor of Prahlada, who was protected from the flames by Vishnu when he was tricked into near death by his father, King Hiranyakashipu. Holi symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and is an important part of Hindu tradition.
What better way to kick off the day with an optional hot air balloon ride over the bustling city of Jaipur? We'll soar through the wind, taking in the hill-top forts, temples, and palaces below.
Afterwards, it's time to let the festivities begin. Indians across the nation gather together with family and friends to throw colored powder bombs, fire water pistols and splash colored water. We will celebrate with locals - white kurta pajamas will be provided to protect your clothes, as will organic colors for you to throw as you join the celebrations. After dancing away to Rajasthani folk music, we will be treated to a traditional Indian lunch.
Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure at the swimming pool or visit a local temple in the evening with your tour guide.
Overnight: Jaipur | Breakfast, Lunch
Return to Delhi
Jaipur - Delhi. Return to Delhi today where the rest of the day is at leisure. Perhaps visit the impressive Akshardham - the world’s largest Hindu temple.
Overnight: Delhi | Breakfast
Delhi
Sunday 16th March 2025. Our Indian adventure comes to an end today with an included transfer to the airport.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates marked with a 'G' are operating. All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to solo travellers or anyone wanting the privacy of a single room.
Extra Prices
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Royale Regent Hotel, Agra
The stylish Royale Regent hotel offers views of the magnificent Taj Mahal from its rooftop pool, so guests can gaze at this World wonder while sipping on a cocktail and retreating from the hustle and bustle of the city. Each comfortable air-conditioned room features a minibar with tea and coffee making facilities, satellite TV as well as excellent en-suite facilities. Guests can also enjoy an array of flavours in the onsite garden or mutli-cuisine restaurant.
Royale Sarovar Portico, Agra
Experience the best of Agra's offerings at Royale Sarovar Portico, located just a 10-minute drive from the iconic Taj Mahal. Indulge in rejuvenating massages or pampering manicures and pedicures. Enjoy delectable meals at Hibiscus, where breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served. Unwind in the outdoor pool, socialize at the bar/lounge, or stay active at the fitness center. With free Wi-Fi throughout the property, this upscale property offers massage services, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center for a fulfilling stay.
Bhanwar Vilas Palace, Karauli
Built in 1938, this stunning property is the residence of the Maharaja (181st in the Royal Dynasty) and Maharani of Karauli. Both the architecture and furniture have been designed in fitting with colonial styles and the property offers a fantastic insight into the history and elegance of a bygone era. The property offers deluxe rooms and luxury suites, each including a range of modern amenities such as a mini bar, a well-appointed ensuite and a plush king-sized bed. In the evenings, guests can tuck into an array of regional specialties as well as international cuisine in the hotel's restaurant.
Raj Niwas Palace, Dholpur, Karauli
With vibrant history and a rich heritage, Dholpur Palace also known as Raj Niwas Palace, is a mesmerizing journey back in time. Once home to generations of Royals, this converted palace still reflects the magnificence of the Rajasthani architecture of that era. Guest rooms offer a refreshing mix of Indian heritage and modern facilities including air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and a mini bar. Set in 13 acres of garden, the Palace grounds are full of peacock and bird life that nip over from the National Chambal Sanctuary nearby.
Radisson Hotel Jaipur City Center, Jaipur
Radisson Hotel Jaipur City Centre is the perfect base for travelers touring India's famed Golden Triangle. Located centrally in Jaipur, the hotel is close to various forts, palaces and bazaars that the Pink City is renowned for. All guest rooms offer air-conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a fridge, kettle, a desk, seating areas and free Wi-Fi. The hotel offers a satisfying continental breakfast buffet at Mosiac, one of four on-site restaurants. Additionally, boasts a business center, a gym and spa, steam room and a relaxing rooftop pool where guests are free to unwind.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jaipur Gopalpura, Jaipur
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jaipur Gopalpura offers a range of amenities for a comfortable stay. The hotel provides concierge services, a fitness center, and free WiFi throughout the property, along with a welcoming terrace. The air-conditioned rooms are well-appointed with a desk, kettle, fridge, safety deposit box, TV, and a private bathroom with a shower. The 24-hour front desk, room service, and currency exchange enhance guest convenience. Guests can indulge in a diverse breakfast spread, including buffet. There is an on-site restaurant catering to various tastes, as well as an in-house bar and a business area.
Park Inn by Radisson New Delhi, Delhi
Set in the heart of one of the most popular neighbourhoods of Delhi, the Park Inn by Radisson offers a comfortable stay in India’s bustling capital. With contemporary guestrooms which feature en suite bathrooms, high speed Wi-Fi, air conditioning and flat screen TVs. Enjoy al fresco dining and drinks at the 24-hour RBG Bar & Grill, which serves tasty traditional Indian fare and international cuisine. After a busy day of sightseeing, unwind with a swim in the hotel's sparkling pool or work up a sweat in the fitness centre. Ideally located just 20 minutes from the airport and a short walk from a metro station, it's easy to reach popular sites such as the Lotus Temple, India Gate and Connaught Place.
Reviews
Travellers have rated this tour as 5 out of 5 based on 6 recent reviews
There was always someone to meet us at the destinations. Tour guide Mahi was knowledgable and cared about our wellbeing. We had a great group and we all got on well. This was the first time I had visited India and it has left me with the most wonderful memories I just want to go back. We also did a tour the week before and again the tour guides were friendly and knowledgeable. They also asked us what we wanted to do and never rushed us.”
The Holi Festival Tour was a convenient way to see the some of the major sites of India and join the spirit of Holi”
Yusuf was the best guide I have ever encountered on any guided tour. ( I have been on quite a few). He was compassionate and caring. He stuck to the timing of the tour whilst always retaining a calm and fun demeanor.
The tour itself was very well laid out and I think in the short time we had, we got to see as much as possible of the World Heritage sites. (I think it was 8 in total - which Yusuf mentioned) ”
Amazing tour & great guide ”
Amazing Tour Loved it. Want to come back and do the tour again but this time during the festival of lights. Superb Tour Leader, Sat was the best ever tour guide, very easy to talk to, approachable, understandable. Also our Coach/Bus Driver 'Goldie' is what he told us to call him, was a great driver, not once did I feel uneasy in that madness of traffic, and also Manjeet who helped Goldie with the Coach/Bus, he was very friendly, and always kept the coach/bus clean and tidy(even after we celebrated Holi, felt sorry for Manjeet this day). All and All absolutely thrilled and cant wait to get back.”
My overall feedback from the tour is Excellent. I really had a great time with the group and the all travel experience, restaurants and accommodation.
The tour guide, Yussuf, was excellent always there to help and ensure that the group could have the best of the tour.
110% Happy, was way much better than i expected I would definitely recommend. ”
HI Mark,
Just wanted to say a HUGE thank you to you and your team for your help last Wednesday. We did get home the next day after a stressful 24 hours. Although the stress was relieved a bit once we got a nice cold Kingfisher in our hand!
I would be grateful if you would extend our gratitude to the Delhi office, especially Filbin Francis who was a star, getting us to and from the airport and checked back into the Almondz! We'd previously met Filbin in Varanasi and didn't think our paths would cross again, little did we know. Putting a positive spin on it we got to spend an extra night in Delhi and revisited a fabulous restaurant we'd discovered at the beginning of our adventures. (Indi-que)
As for the tour....what can we say. It was a fabulous experience, one we shared with people from all corners of the world and we thoroughly enjoyed nearly all aspects of it.
We salute Satendra Sharma, our India tour guide, for marshaling the 27 strong group every day. He was a great guide who was highly organised, professional yet great fun to be around.
He did a fantastic job of getting us to all the sights on time and filling our minds full of knowledge on each place, we have the utmost respect for the man as his job wasn't the easiest dealing with 27 very different personalities!
We had a fabulous time with him throughout the tour and every day revealed a new and exciting highlight. Our personal highlight was Varanasi and the Ganges boat trip, Sat went over and above arranging an evening trip to the ghat for those of us who wanted it.
Although Holi and the Taj Mahal are close seconds.
Also a big shout out to Ajay our Nepali guide and his "little boss" who also carried out a fabulous job showing us the highlights of his beautiful country.
The sights and experiences we had throughout the tour were amazing and these two guides are a credit to your company!
Regards ”
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There was always someone to meet us at the destinations. Tour guide Mahi was knowledgable and cared about our wellbeing. We had a great group and we all got on well. This was the first time I had visited India and it has left me with the most wonderful memories I just want to go back. We also did a tour the week before and again the tour guides were friendly and knowledgeable. They also asked us what we wanted to do and never rushed us.”
