Holi, known as the Festival of Colours, is one of India's most vibrant and joyful celebrations. It typically takes place in March, marking the arrival of spring and symbolising the triumph of good over evil.
During Holi, people gather to throw colourful powders (gulal) at each other, dance to music, and enjoy sweets and traditional foods like gujiya and thandai (a spiced, cold milk drink).
The festival is celebrated differently across regions in India, each with its unique traditions.
We have planned a private tailor-made itinerary for this festival, some details of which can be found below.
The trip starts in Delhi on the 10th of March and ends back in Delhi on the 16th of March 2025. Here is a summary of each day.
10th March
Arrival in Delhi. Our representative will meet and greet you, then transfer you to the hotel. Check-in will be at 1400 hours. Overnight hotel in Delhi.
11th March
In the morning, discover the history and heritage of Old Delhi and visit Jama Masjid, the largest Mosque in India. After the visit, enjoy a Rickshaw ride through the busy streets of Chandni Chowk. We will then pass outside the splendid Red Fort and visit Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhi's cremation site.
In the afternoon, continue your guided city tour passing by the President's House, Parliament House and take a photo stop at the famous war memorial, India Gate. We will visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a Sikh temple that is still in active worship. Later visit Qutab Minar, fine examples of Indo-Islamic architecture. Overnight hotel in Delhi.
12th March
In the morning, we will proceed to Agra and check-in at the hotel.
In the afternoon, we will visit the splendid Agra Fort, built of red sandstone, encapsulating magnificent palaces, halls of public and private audiences, and beautiful gardens. Then we will visit Itmad-ud-daulah and Mother Teresa's orphanage. Overnight at hotel in Agra.
13th March
Early at dawn we will visit the Taj Mahal. Witness surreal views of the Taj Mahal, sparkling under the brilliant rays of the Indian sun. It is an eternal symbol of love. We will appreciate the intricate designs and symmetries that rhyme like a poem written in marble. Taj Mahal is an extravagant display of love, built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.
Breakfast at hotel then departure to Jaipur, en route visiting Fatehpur Sikri: the crowning glory of Emperor Akbar's architectural legacy. Built in Red Sandstone, its many palaces, halls and structures exemplify the creativity of the ancient Mughal emperors.
After the visit, continue to Jaipur. Arrive in Jaipur and check in at the hotel.
Jaipur, the Land of the Rajputs, is an exuberance of colour, dance, and traditional arts and crafts. Known as the 'Pink City,' Jaipur is home to a wonderful selection of ancient forts and palaces. Jaipur, one of the best-planned cities in India, is built in nine rectangular sectors that symbolize nine divisions of the universe, according to Indian cosmology.
At sunset, we will visit the Birla Temple to witness the Aarti ceremony.
Overnight at hotel in Jaipur.
14th March Jaipur Festival of Colors
Transfer to the palace where Holi will be celebrated by the guests.
A special welcome with the chung, a traditional musical instrument that is played especially during the Holi festival, and a non-alcoholic drink.
The guests are escorted to an exclusive area for the celebration of Holi.
Here, they can mingle with other guests and some locals who will be there for the celebration.
Snack and drink service.
Afterwards, Holi takes place on the outside lawn. Guests can play and enjoy Holi with the "Gulal" colour made from an organic cornflower base. There will be many colors and celebrations in the Holi party!
Guests will also enjoy dance shows, and if they wish, can participate.
Dress (Kurta / Pajama) during Holi celebration.
After the celebration a Buffet lunch will be served.
After lunch, return to the hotel.
(Please note that during the celebration, guests do not mingle with the local crowds in the streets. However after the event, guests , on their own initiative and responsibility, may want to do so).
Overnight at hotel in Jaipur.
15th March
In the morning we will visit the Amber Fort. We will visit the palace, the Jagmandir, Jai Mahal and the Kali Temple with its gardens. The ascent will be on elephant back (or jeep if the ride is closed on that particular day) and the descent will be in 4 x 4 jeeps with no air conditioning.
Later we will visit the City Palace complex, which reflects the architectural exuberance of Jaipur. A part of the palace remains the royal residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur. Also visit Jantar Mantar, the ancient astronomical observatory. We will also enjoy the cycle rickshaw ride in the bazaars of the old city.
Overnight at hotel in Jaipur.
16th March
Check out at 1200 hours. Departure to Delhi by road and then transfer to the airport to your onward destination.
Prices on request (this will vary depending on the number of persons in the group and hotel category)
More information on the hotels and inclusions can be sent on request.
Of course should you wish to extend your trip in India we can certainly organise this!
(All photos - except the photo of the Holi celebration) by Mark Anthony Bailey for Distant Horizons Ltd)
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