Colors of India: Holi, Taj Mahal, & Tigers with Caitlyn Lubas
Your TourHero
Duration
10 days · 9 nights
Travel Date
Mar 7 - 16, 2025
Activity Level
Light/Moderate
Group Size
8 - 10
Transportation
Group vehicle, bike, rickshaw
Tour Price
Your Fellow Explorers
Age range
21+
Travel interest
Sightseeing, cultural immersion, history, local cuisine
Embark on an unforgettable journey through India, which includes a bucket list experience celebrating Holi, the Hindu Festival of Colours! Join us as we marvel at the iconic Taj Mahal, witness majestic tigers in their natural habitat, and get covered in colors while celebrating Holi in the Pink City like a local. This adventure includes visits to Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore, and Jaipur, with private transportation and an expert English-speaking guide. Discover India's rich history and vibrant culture as you navigate bustling markets, ride rickshaws through historic cities, and embark on a thrilling safari in Ranthambore National Park.
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
-If you cancel your trip between now and December 6, 2024, 25% of your deposit will be forfeited.
-If you cancel your trip between December 7, 2024 and January 5, 2025, 50% of your trip deposit forfeited along with any cancellation fees, or non-refundable deposits charged to us by individual hotels, airlines or other third-parties.
-If you cancel your trip between January 6, 2025 to February 13, 2025, 75% of your trip deposit forfeited along with any cancellation fees, or non-refundable deposits charged to us by individual hotels, airlines or other third-parties.
-No refunds if you cancel your trip after February 14, 2025.
You may transfer your spot
At any point up until February 14, 2025, you may choose to transfer your spot to another traveler. The price will reflect the current selling price of the trip at the time of transfer. Once the new traveler has been introduced and books their spot, we will refund you for your payments. You can initiate a transfer in your TourHero account by clicking on Your Trips.
Your TourHero
Duration
10 days · 9 nights
Travel Date
Mar 7 - 16, 2025
Activity Level
Light/Moderate
Group Size
8 - 10
Transportation
Group vehicle, bike, rickshaw
Embark on an unforgettable journey through India, which includes a bucket list experience celebrating Holi, the Hindu Festival of Colours! Join us as we marvel at the iconic Taj Mahal, witness majestic tigers in their natural habitat, and get covered in colors while celebrating Holi in the Pink City like a local. This adventure includes visits to Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore, and Jaipur, with private transportation and an expert English-speaking guide. Discover India's rich history and vibrant culture as you navigate bustling markets, ride rickshaws through historic cities, and embark on a thrilling safari in Ranthambore National Park.
Timeline
- Day 1 · March 6, 2025 · Delhi
- Arrive in Delhi at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) (likely arriving past midnight early on March 7th)
- Group transfer from airport to accommodation
- Check in at Colonel’s Retreat New Delhi (or similar)
- Day 2 · March 7, 2025 · Delhi
- Breakfast at hotel
- New Delhi tour - Humayun Tomb, drive through the Lutyens area, India Gate, Gandhi Smriti
- Lunch stop (not included in price)
- Continue tour
- Dinner in a local’s home
- Day 3 · March 8, 2025 · Delhi
- Breakfast at hotel
- Early morning bicycle tour - Partition Museum, National Gallery of Modern Art, National Museum
- Lunch at Lota Cafe
- Continue tour - Bangla Sahib, Nizamuddin Dargah, Agrasen ki Baoli
- Return to hotel
- Dinner (not included in price) and free time
- Day 4 · March 9, 2025 · Delhi
- Breakfast at hotel
- Rickshaw tour of Old Delhi - Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, local market walk
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Half-day Tughlaqabad hike
- Return to hotel
- Dinner (not included in price) and free time
- Day 5 · March 10, 2025 · Delhi & Agra
- Breakfast and check out of hotel
- Drive to Agra
- ~ 4 hrs 30 mins car
- Check in at Hotel Clarks Shiraz, Agra (or similar)
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Agra monuments tour - Agra Fort, Itimat-Ud-Daulah, John Hessing's Tomb
- Return to hotel
- Dinner (not included in price) and free time
- Day 6 · March 11, 2025 · Agra & Ranthambore
- Taj Mahal visit
- Kachpura village visit
- Return to hotel
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Depart for Ranthambore
- ~ 6 hrs car
- Visit Abhaneri Stepwell en route to Ranthambore
- Arrive in Ranthambore
- Check-in at Motibagh Resort (or similar according to availability)
- Dinner
- Day 7 · March 12, 2025 · Ranthambore
- Breakfast at hotel
- Full-day safari
- Stop for lunch
- Continue safari
- Stop for dinner
- Return to hotel
- Free time
- Day 8 · March 13, 2025 · Ranthambore & Jaipur
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Drive to Jaipur
- ~ 3 hrs 30 mins car
- Check in at Loharu House Jaipur (or similar)
- Jaipur tour - Amer Fort, Jal Mahal, Gaitore ki Chhatri, Anokhi Textile Museum
- Stop for lunch (not included in price)
- Continue Jaipur tour - Amrapali Silver, Jewelry Museum, Jantar Mantar, City Palace, Patrika Gate
- Return to hotel
- Dinner (not included in price) and free time
- Day 9 · March 14, 2025 · Jaipur
- Breakfast at hotel
- Holi celebration with lunch
- Return to hotel
- Free time
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 10 · March 15, 2025 · Jaipur
- Breakfast at hotel
- Rickshaw tour of Jaipur - Govind Dev ji ka Mandir, Flower Market
- Food walk in Jaipur
- Escorted hike of Amer Fort
- Free evening to visit bazaars
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 11 · March 16, 2025 · Departure
- Breakfast and check out of hotel
- Block printing workshop (optional add-on)
- Group transfer to airport
- Journey ends
Details
Day 1 · March 6, 2025
Welcome! Late night flight to Delhi
NOTE: Arrival time and date may depend on individual flights. You may arrive past midnight early on March 7 and be brought straight to your hotel.
-Arrive in Delhi and transfer to your hotel to begin your adventure tomorrow.
Day 2 · March 7, 2025
Discover the highlights of Delhi
-After sleeping in to recover from our late-night arrival, we will have breakfast, begin getting to know each other, and meet our private guide and driver.
-We’ll set out for a tour of New Delhi for the day, soaking up the electric vibes of the city and seeing its iconic landmarks like Humayun Tomb, Lutyens Delhi, India Gate, Nizamuddin Dargah, the Bangala Saheb Gurudwara, and Gandhi Smriti. We will also stop for lunch along the way.
-Tonight, we will enjoy an authentic Bengali dinner with a local in her home to get a taste of India’s diverse food culture. It doesn’t get more “real” than from family homes, where recipes have passed on and evolved through generations.
Day 3 · March 8, 2025
Dive deeper into Delhi’s history
-After fueling up with a hearty breakfast, we are going on a bike tour, visiting Connaught Place, India Gate & Rajpath & Agrasen Ki Baoli.
-Later we will visit the Partition Museum, National Gallery of Modern Art & The National Museum. Each stop gives us even deeper insight into Delhi and India’s culture at large. We’ll also stop for a tasty lunch at Lota Cafe. A deeper exploration of Humayun’s Tomb and the Sunken Museum post lunch.
-After a busy day, we will have free time to grab dinner wherever we choose. We will have a list of foreigner-friendly eateries to pick from.
Day 4 · March 9, 2025
Old Delhi by rickshaw, Tughlaqabad by hike
-Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before we set out for another unique day of discovery!
-We will explore the ancient area of Old Delhi and some of its highlights like the Red Fort and Jama Masjid. We will also explore the local markets via a tricycle rickshaw tour of Chandni Chowk and walking through Khari Baoli, Asia’s biggest spice market. After haggling for goods, we stop for lunch and a little rest before our next activity.
-In the afternoon, we will hike Tughlaqabad, featuring ruins of a fort from this lost city.
-The rest of the night is yours from here. We grab dinner wherever we choose.
Day 5 · March 10, 2025
Now, onto Agra
-After an early morning final Delhi breakfast, we’ll pack up our bags and head to our next city.
-Our drive to Agra will take about 4 hours, offering great views of India as we drive.
-We will check into our hotel and have lunch before we continue our exploration.
-We’ll head out on a tour of some of Agra’s monuments, such as Agra Fort, Itimat-Ud-Daulah, and John Hessing's Tomb (Red Taj Mahal) showcasing the history and stories of the city.
-After our tour, we will return to the hotel, then we are free for dinner and exploration at our own cadence.
Day 6 · March 11, 2025
Behold a wonder of the world
-This morning we’ll check off the much awaited visit to the Taj Mahal at sunrise to avoid the crowds and get stunning photos in the early morning golden hour light.
-We’ll return to the hotel, eat breakfast, check out, and we’ll get a glimpse of rural India during a walking tour of the ancient village of Kachpura. Come back to a boutique hotel for a traditional Thali Lunch, and then head to Ranthambore.
-About 3 hours into the drive, we will stop to visit the architectural wonder of the Abhaneri Stepwell. You’ll have seen Agrasen ki Baoli in Delhi, but this one beats any other.
-After a final 3 hour stretch of driving, we’ll arrive in Ranthambhore in the evening and check into our hotel where dinner is included.
Day 7 · March 12, 2025
A morning and afternoon safari in the National Park
-As the sun rises over Ranthambore, we’ll have breakfast to prepare for a full day of game drives.
-Our entire day is dedicated to exploring this incredible game reserve known to be the best place to spot the celebrated Indian tigers in their natural habitat. As we keep our eyes peeled for tigers, we will also see an array of diverse plant species and wildlife, such as Sambhar Deer, Indian Gazelle, Blue Bull (Nilgai), Spotted Deer, Langhur Monkey, Sloth Bear, leopards, and many birds. In between our morning and afternoon safaris, we’ll have a lunch included at the hotel.
-After a full day out, with hopefully a lucky tiger sighting, we’ll return to the hotel for dinner.
Day 8 · March 13, 2025
Journey to Jaipur, our final destination
-Breakfast, pack up, and head out – our routine of transition continues, and it’s onto Jaipur, our final city!
-After our 4 hour drive, we will check into our hotel and quickly settle before heading out to begin our tour. Lunch will be a pre-set homestyle spread at the hotel.
-We will explore some of the highlights of Jaipur today, such as Amer Fort, Jal Mahal Gaitore ki Chhatri, Anokhi Textile Museum, Amrapali Silver, Jewelry Museum, Jantar Mantar, City Palace, and Patrika Gate.
-Once we are done, we will return to the hotel, and the rest of our night is free to explore how we wish.
Day 9 · March 14, 2025
Happy Holi!
-Today is Holi, a Hindu festival that celebrates the arrival of spring, the triumph of good over evil, and the love between Radha and Krishna. Grab breakfast before we join the celebrations dressed in all white attire that will be provided for you.
-It’s time to join the fun, throwing colored waters and powders to create a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors. The energy is incredible and the vibes are high. We will also share a special lunch together.
-After a long lazy lunch, we will return to the hotel to freshen up. During the rest of the day’s free time, you can opt to join in on a drive around the city to witness all the action of Holi from a safe distance (it can get crazy out there!).
Day 10 · March 15, 2025
Final day of fun in India
-It’s our final full day in India, so make sure you grab an early breakfast to energize and get all we can out of our exploration.
-We will take the famed women-operated pink city rickshaw tour of Jaipur, featuring a visit to the stunning Flower Market, Govind Devji Temple, and the iconic Hawa Mahal.
-For lunch, embark on a sensory journey through the glittering streets, aromatic spices, and delectable local dishes guided by a local chef — a culinary adventure where you can indulge in the city's vibrant street food scene and immerse yourself in its bustling bazaars. This tour takes you to hidden local gems, fresh markets, spice vendors, tea stalls, and more. The tour is not just about food; it also delves into Jaipur's historical backgrounds, local architecture details, and social aspects.
-With full stomachs, we will take a moderate afternoon hike around Aravali range with views of the Amer town, Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary, the old ramparts and fortification Jaigarh Fort, Sagar Lake, and an ancient temple.
-Tonight's free to explore Jaipur’s bazaars and street food delights, soaking up the unique vibes of India in our last moments here.
Day 11 · March 16, 2025
Farewell, friends
-It’s time to head home after an incredible adventure. Grab your final breakfast, pack up your bags, and grab your ride to the airport.
-If your flight departs later in the day and time allows, join an optional add-on block printing workshop at Rangotri studio, teaching you about basic principles, equipment, and dyes involved in this craft. You’ll create your own block printed apron, fabric bag, and handmade paper notebook to take home as the most unique souvenirs!
-As you depart, reflect on the incredible memories you’ve made here. Though we have only scratched the surface of this incredible nation, we are sure that you’ll be dreaming of a return trip already.
Accommodation
Colonel’s Retreat New Delhi (or similar according to availability)
Found amidst lush greenery, Colonel's Retreat offers a serene escape from the city's chaos. Perfectly located in a residential neighbourhood in South Delhi, this charming guest house is your gateway to discovering the vibrant spirit of New Delhi. Room type: Double Occupancy. Room configuration: 2 beds.
Hotel Clarks Shiraz, Agra (or similar according to availability)
Hotel Clarks Shiraz offers a truly unforgettable experience. Nestled amidst the city's vibrant energy, this exquisite hotel boasts a prime location that puts you within easy reach of the iconic Taj Mahal. Indulge in world-class amenities, including a rejuvenating spa, a stunning rooftop pool, and delectable dining options. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Agra while enjoying the comfort of Hotel Clarks Shiraz. Room type: Double Occupancy. Room configuration: 2 beds.
Motibagh Resort (or similar according to availability)
Nestled just a stone's throw away from the iconic Ranthambore National Park, this luxurious resort offers the perfect base for unforgettable wildlife safaris. Indulge in world-class amenities, including a refreshing swimming pool, delectable dining options, and cozy accommodations that blend modern comfort with traditional Rajasthani charm. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscapes and experience the thrill of encountering majestic tigers and other exotic wildlife. Motibagh Resort is your gateway to an unforgettable journey into the wild! Room type: Double Occupancy. Room configuration: 2 beds.
Loharu House Jaipur (or similar according to availability)
Loharu House offers a luxurious retreat amidst the vibrant energy of the Pink City. Nestled amidst lush gardens, this exquisite boutique guest house boasts a prime location that puts you within easy reach of Jaipur's iconic attractions. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Jaipur while enjoying the comfort and warmth of Loharu House. Room type: Double Occupancy. Room configuration: 2 beds.
Included
4 nights accommodation in Delhi (including late-night arrival Day 1)
1 night accommodation in Agra
2 nights accommodation in Ranthambore
3 nights accommodation in Jaipur
Shared double occupancy in accommodation
All breakfasts
Lunch on Day 3, 6, 7, 9, & 10
Dinner on Day 2, 6, & 7
Private vehicle with driver throughout duration of trip
All airport and activity transfers
All activities described in the itinerary
English-speaking local guide during tours
Entrance fees where applicable with included activities
Not included
Flights
International airport departure tax
Visas
All food and drinks not mentioned in inclusions
Personal expenses
Optional add-ons
Travel insurance
Gratuities
FAQ
What happens if I need to cancel my trip?
Please check the cancellation policy section on this itinerary page for specific details.
Will TourHero or the operator take care of my visa (if applicable)?
Travelers are responsible for researching visa requirements and obtaining a visa if needed. Please check government websites to ensure you have the necessary documents, along with passport requirements, before your departure date. This includes necessary transit visas, permits, and vaccinations required prior to travel and any required reciprocity fees for the destination. TourHero will provide a booking confirmation document after purchase, which may be needed to obtain a visa.
If your visa is denied for any reason, TourHero will issue a refund based on the cancellation policy. However, we are unable to provide a refund after the cancellation due date has passed.
Do I need a passport for this trip?
A full and valid passport is required for all persons traveling to any destination outside of one’s home country. Most international tours require a passport that's valid for at least six (6) months beyond the scheduled end of your Itinerary. TourHero will not issue refunds based on passport issues such as renewals or lost passports.
What's included in the price?
Please check the inclusion and exclusion sections above. You'll find information about included meals, transfers, flights, and activities. If you have any questions or need support, please contact: hello@tourhero.com.
Available add-on
Block printing workshop
Join for an immersive day exploring the art of hand block printing using traditional techniques. You will be taken you through the studio teaching you about basic principles, equipment, dyes involved in this craft.
Includes: A studio tour, materials, blocks, dyes along with a workshop kit and hot cup of Chai.
Workshop kit comes with:
Block-printed apron
Fabric bag & stationery pouch
Hand-carved block
Handmade paper
Notebook
Guide to block printing
Certificate of participation
Price: USD 70
10 spots left
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
-If you cancel your trip between now and December 6, 2024, 25% of your deposit will be forfeited.
-If you cancel your trip between December 7, 2024 and January 5, 2025, 50% of your trip deposit forfeited along with any cancellation fees, or non-refundable deposits charged to us by individual hotels, airlines or other third-parties.
-If you cancel your trip between January 6, 2025 to February 13, 2025, 75% of your trip deposit forfeited along with any cancellation fees, or non-refundable deposits charged to us by individual hotels, airlines or other third-parties.
-No refunds if you cancel your trip after February 14, 2025.
You may transfer your spot
At any point up until February 14, 2025, you may choose to transfer your spot to another traveler. The price will reflect the current selling price of the trip at the time of transfer. Once the new traveler has been introduced and books their spot, we will refund you for your payments. You can initiate a transfer in your TourHero account by clicking on Your Trips.
- Welcome to India – the gateway to a magical adventure starts here in Delhi! - Laurentiu Morariu
- Visit Jantar Mantar, an observatory built by Jaipur's founder, Sawai Jai Singh. - Unsplash: Barun Ghosh
- Welcome to the Pink City! - Wikimedia Commons
- Add-on: Block printing workshop - Wikimedia Commons
- Before the sun paints the sky with hues of orange and pink, you'll embark on a pilgrimage to witness the ethereal beauty of the Taj Mahal at sunrise. - Unsplash: sanin sn
- The Amber Fort was built by Raja Man Singh in the early 17th century. It houses mighty gates, temples, huge ornate halls, palaces, pavilions, and gardens. - Meriç Dağlı
- India Gate is a huge monument that is a defining feature of a New Delhi stroll. - Asif Methar
- Authentic flavors are the star of the show during this dinner at at a local's home. - Chan Walrus
- Jama Masjid, one of the sights we will see today, is the largest mosque in India. - Rayn L
- Hike Tughluqabad Fort, one of the lost cities of Delhi. - Wikimedia Commons
- Agra is certainly most famous for the Taj Mahal, but we are exploring some of the city's hidden gems this afternoon. - Syed Hussain
- Be enchanted by the intricate details of the architecture here. - AXP Photography
- Our entire day in Ranthambore is dedicated to a safari through the reserve. - Madhushree Narayan
- Everywhere you look, there's something new to see. - Arvind Mahesh
- Celebrate Holi and paint the town rainbow with a rainbow of waters and powders. - Nishant Das
- Our night in Jaipur is free. - Shashank Sharma
- The Flower Market is a gorgeous and colorful sight. - Jayanth Muppaneni
- Explore Amer Fort on a guided hike. - Merili M
- We will spend our final evening wandering the bazaars of the city, bursting with interesting goods and plenty of opportunity for discovery. - Moussa Idrissi
- Colonel’s Retreat New Delhi - Colonel’s Retreat New Delhi
- Hotel Clarks Shiraz, Agra - Hotel Clarks Shiraz, Agra
- Moti Bagh - Moti Bagh
- Lorahu House - Lorahu House
- Lorahu House - Lorahu House
- Keep your eyes out for the majestic tigers that roam Ranthambore. - Kartik Iyer
- Sightsee in New Delhi and discover Humayun's Tomb! - Breakaway
- Visit the storied and captivating Chand Baori. - Breakaway
- Be captivated by the country's many temples. - Breakaway