Rajasthan and Holi (festival of colors)

India, discover this 12-day trip

Trip Description

Holi is a Hindu festival that celebrates the spring equinox. It lasts for two days and begins during the full moon of the month of Phalguna, in March. Known as the "Festival of Colors," Holi involves the application of colorful powders on the face. This journey will allow you to experience this sacred enthusiasm and also explore Rajasthan, one of the most beautiful regions in India. The gigantic forts and palaces you will discover evoke the power of the Maharajas who ruled Rajasthan for centuries. The palaces of Rajasthan are crafted from carved white marble (like the Taj Mahal) or red stones (like the Agra Fort or the Palace of Winds in Jaipur). The perfect preservation of these monuments is awe-inspiring. You will visit remarkable sites like the magnificent fortified city of Jodhpur (the Blue City) and the famous Taj Mahal. These places will offer you a glimpse into the fascinating history of Northern India.

Accomodation

No accomodation information available

Stay program

day 1:
Arrival in Delhi
Arrival at New Delhi International Airport (Terminal 3). Namaste! Welcome! Your personal driver will be waiting for you at the airport to take you to your hotel. Afterwards, enjoy a city tour, including the main monuments of Old and New Delhi: Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque; Humayun’s Tomb; the Red Fort; and Qutub Minar, India’s tallest minaret. Overnight at the hotel.
day 2:
New Delhi - Mandawa - 250 km
After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Mandawa. Upon arrival, check into the hotel, then explore the town on foot. Evening return and overnight at the hotel. Mandawa: This small village in the Shekhawati region was founded in the 18th century by Bhojraj Ji Kasubsub, a leader of the Rajput "Shekhawat" clan. Mandawa is famous for its many havelis—former noble family homes built by the region’s wealthy merchants, showcasing classic Indian architecture. The merchants have since migrated to other areas, leaving the havelis in the peaceful anonymity of the Indian countryside. Shekhawati’s beauty lies in its traditional villages, rarely visited by tourists.
day 3:
Mandawa - Bikaner - 200 km
In the morning, after breakfast, depart for Bikaner. Upon arrival, check into the hotel and explore the city’s fortress and its magnificent citadel. Visit the Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok (about 30 km from Bikaner), also known as the “Rat Temple.” Hundreds of rats are protected, fed, and revered here. Overnight at the hotel. Bikaner: A fortified city with 7 km of imposing fortifications and five gates, Bikaner still surprises visitors with the vibrant activity in its bustling streets.
day 4:
Bikaner - Jodhpur - 250 km
Early departure after breakfast towards Jodhpur. Upon arrival, check into the hotel and explore the city. Visit Sadar Bazaar, a colorful market filled with traditional clothing worn by women and turbans for men. Overnight at the hotel.
day 5:
Jodhpur
A full day of sightseeing in Jodhpur. Discover Mehrangarh Fort, then visit the ancient city of Mandore, Umaid Bhawan Museum, and the Mandore Garden. Overnight at the hotel.
day 6:
Jodhpur - Udaipur (via Ranakpur) - 250 km
After breakfast, depart for Udaipur, stopping at Ranakpur to visit the Jain Temple of Adinath, an extraordinary structure begun in the 15th century. It is one of the most significant temples in Jain culture. After this visit, continue to Udaipur. Upon arrival, check into the hotel. Enjoy a cruise on Lake Pichola. Overnight at the hotel.
day 7:
Udaipur (The Venice of the East)
In the morning, explore Udaipur, including its city markets. Visit the City Palace and end the day with a visit to Jagdish Temple. Return and overnight at the hotel.
day 8:
Udaipur - Bundi - 264 km
Depart in the morning for Bundi, after breakfast. En route, visit the Rajput Fort of Chittorgarh, once the capital of the Mewar Kingdom. The road from Udaipur to Bundi offers breathtaking scenery. Overnight at the hotel.
day 9:
Bundi - Jaipur - 216 km
After breakfast, head towards Jaipur. Upon arrival, check into the hotel. Begin by exploring Jaipur’s Amber Fort and the Palace of Winds. Take a jeep ride to Amber Fort, visit the fort, then tour the Palace of Winds (an old royal harem with a façade overlooking the bustling street below). Enjoy free time to wander the market with your guide. Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is renowned for its textile production and silver jewelry. Overnight at the hotel.
day 10:
Jaipur - Holi Celebration
Holi hai! Celebrate Holi in Jaipur. Holi, the festival of colors, spring, and renewal, brings together people across India. Tradition calls for wearing white and throwing colored powders at one another. This convivial festival is also an opportunity to taste special dishes prepared for the occasion. There is no chauffeur available on Holi (except for transport to the festivities), and all monuments are closed. The Holi package includes a white kurta, lunch, and colored powders. Overnight at the hotel.
day 11:
Jaipur - Agra (via Fatehpur Sikri) - 250 km
Early morning departure for Agra, after breakfast. Make a short stop to visit the abandoned ghost town of Fatehpur Sikri, which has been deserted since the 16th century. After the visit, continue to Agra. Upon arrival, check into the hotel. Depending on your arrival time, take a leisurely walk around the city. Overnight at the hotel.
day 12:
Agra - Delhi - 210 km
Depart at dawn after breakfast to visit the magnificent Taj Mahal. Built in 1631 by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his late wife Mumtaz Mahal, the reflections on the white marble of the Taj Mahal offer superb photo opportunities. Visit the Red Fort of Agra, where Emperor Humayun was crowned in 1530. Afterwards, transfer to New Delhi International Airport according to your departure time.