Overview
Delhi and Rajasthan: Colors of India
Asia
14 days
13 nights
14 people
Easy
History & Culture
Rajasthan is India at its most colorful. This adventure uncovers every shade of the rainbow as you gaze upon the magnificent Taj Mahal, roam the ornate mosaic halls of the Amber Fort, and explore the dazzling "Blue City" of Jodhpur. Loop your way around the “Land of Kings” from Delhi and back, and spot leopards on a safari, wander street markets and bazaars, and experience the cultural maze of Jaipur. Journey by rail, a highlight of South Asian travel, back to Delhi, enjoying miles of gorgeous countryside and sips of masala chai tea.
If you travel during the full moon in March, get ready to experience the colorful Holi festival! Or if you join us in the first week of November, you’ll take part in India’s light-filled Diwali celebrations.
Special Access: Visit Pilipantri, a village where 111 trees are planted every time a girl is born as part of an initiative to promote gender equality and boost the local economy.
Travel with Purpose: Visit Jawai Village, a rural community that rarely sees—or gets the financial benefit of—visitors.
Highlights
- Admire the grandeur of the Taj Mahal.
- Take in the aromas and flavors of Khari Baoli, Asia’s largest spice market.
- Meet the community behind an incredible project to support and empower local girls.
- Search for leopards, panthers, and gazelles on safari in Jawai.
- Explore Bapu Bazaar, famous for traditionally-crafted jewelry and textiles.
- Experience the thrill of an Indian sleeper train, a class travel adventure for the ages.
- Visit Jawai Village, a rural community that rarely sees visitors.
Discover Colorful Rajasthan: From Delhi to Jaipur and Beyond.
Day 1
Discovering Delhi
Namaste! Welcome to India. Begin your Indian adventure in its charismatic capital city - Delhi! Meet your friendly driver and transfer to your hotel where you will gather with your fellow travelers and guide for a spice-laden welcome dinner.
Discovering Delhi
Namaste! Welcome to India. Begin your Indian adventure in its charismatic capital city - Delhi! Meet your friendly driver and transfer to your hotel where you will gather with your fellow travelers and guide for a spice-laden welcome dinner.
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Hotel Jaypee Sidhartha or similar, New Delhi
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Welcome Dinner
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Hotel Jaypee Sidhartha or similar, New Delhi
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Welcome Dinner
Day 2
Markets & Mosques
Begin your first full day on a walking tour in the old city of Delhi, the center of dynasties and empires for centuries, and Northern India’s cultural and historical heart. Visit an 18th century Sikh Temple, and wander around the central market of Chandni Chowk, a chaotic, colorful maze of vendors selling everything from vivid saris and essential oils to silver jewelry and traditional Indian sweets. After the first of many cups of steaming masala chai, hop on a rickshaw for a memorable ride around the city, before exploring the exotic flavors of Asia’s biggest spice market, Khari Baoli. A delicious home-cooked dinner with a local family awaits you this evening.
Markets & Mosques
Begin your first full day on a walking tour in the old city of Delhi, the center of dynasties and empires for centuries, and Northern India’s cultural and historical heart. Visit an 18th century Sikh Temple, and wander around the central market of Chandni Chowk, a chaotic, colorful maze of vendors selling everything from vivid saris and essential oils to silver jewelry and traditional Indian sweets. After the first of many cups of steaming masala chai, hop on a rickshaw for a memorable ride around the city, before exploring the exotic flavors of Asia’s biggest spice market, Khari Baoli. A delicious home-cooked dinner with a local family awaits you this evening.
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Hotel Jaypee Sidhartha or similar, New Delhi
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Hotel Jaypee Sidhartha or similar, New Delhi
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Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3
The Taj Mahal
Take a private transfer to the Northern Indian city of Agra, where you’ll tick one of the seven wonders of the world off your bucket list; the iconic Taj Mahal. This breathtaking monument to love and heartbreak was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan after the death of his most beloved consort. Take time to admire the awe-inspiring blend of Islamic, Persian, Turkish, and Indian architecture, and wander the lush gardens, where there’s a majestic vista at every turn. Later, meet a local carpet maker who will give you an insight into the complexities of Mughal carpet making, an art form that was introduced to India by the great Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century.
The Taj Mahal
Take a private transfer to the Northern Indian city of Agra, where you’ll tick one of the seven wonders of the world off your bucket list; the iconic Taj Mahal. This breathtaking monument to love and heartbreak was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan after the death of his most beloved consort. Take time to admire the awe-inspiring blend of Islamic, Persian, Turkish, and Indian architecture, and wander the lush gardens, where there’s a majestic vista at every turn. Later, meet a local carpet maker who will give you an insight into the complexities of Mughal carpet making, an art form that was introduced to India by the great Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century.
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Hotel Howard Plaza or similar
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Hotel Howard Plaza or similar
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Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4
The Pink City
Wake up bright and early for your private transfer to the pink-hued city of Jaipur, where bejeweled maharajas once ruled. The region’s cultural capital and a marvel of city planning, Jaipur is where the past comes alive in the form of magnificent forts, bustling bazaars and ornate palaces. Watch a Bollywood movie this afternoon in one of the most popular and majestic cinema halls in the country, a red-carpet spot for the grandest Indian film premieres since the 1970s. Then enjoy a thrilling eco-friendly rickshaw ride (run by a female-led rickshaw company) that will take you past the famous sights of Jaipur, such as the Hawa Mahal palace, the Albert Hall Museum and bustling spice markets.
The Pink City
Wake up bright and early for your private transfer to the pink-hued city of Jaipur, where bejeweled maharajas once ruled. The region’s cultural capital and a marvel of city planning, Jaipur is where the past comes alive in the form of magnificent forts, bustling bazaars and ornate palaces. Watch a Bollywood movie this afternoon in one of the most popular and majestic cinema halls in the country, a red-carpet spot for the grandest Indian film premieres since the 1970s. Then enjoy a thrilling eco-friendly rickshaw ride (run by a female-led rickshaw company) that will take you past the famous sights of Jaipur, such as the Hawa Mahal palace, the Albert Hall Museum and bustling spice markets.
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Hotel Diggi Palace or similar, Jaipur
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Special note
For departures before May 1, 2024 this day will be a rick-shaw tour through the city and a Bollywood film at an iconic theater.
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Hotel Diggi Palace or similar, Jaipur
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Special note
Day 5
Amber Fort
Today is dedicated to the stunning 10th century hilltop Amber Fort, which offers incredible panoramic views, intricate marble archways, and puzzling mosaics in its Hall of Mirrors. Built by one of the most trusted generals of Akbar, Maharaja Man Singh in 1592, the Amber Fort served as the main residence of the Rajput Rulers. There will be some time to explore on your own, before meeting up with your group again for dinner.
Amber Fort
Today is dedicated to the stunning 10th century hilltop Amber Fort, which offers incredible panoramic views, intricate marble archways, and puzzling mosaics in its Hall of Mirrors. Built by one of the most trusted generals of Akbar, Maharaja Man Singh in 1592, the Amber Fort served as the main residence of the Rajput Rulers. There will be some time to explore on your own, before meeting up with your group again for dinner.
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Hotel Diggi Palace or similar, Jaipur
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Hotel Diggi Palace or similar, Jaipur
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Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6
Secret Rajasthan
Today, you’ll time travel back to the 14th century for a visit to the charming town of Bundi, once the inspiration for Kipling’s epic novel, ‘Kim.’ which boasts the elaborate palaces, forts and exquisite stepwells of India’s must-see cities, conveniently concentrated in the form of a charming hillside village. Experience the best of Indian life here, from savoring the famous local masala chai to breathing in the aromatic spices from the town’s eclectic street food vendors.
Secret Rajasthan
Today, you’ll time travel back to the 14th century for a visit to the charming town of Bundi, once the inspiration for Kipling’s epic novel, ‘Kim.’ which boasts the elaborate palaces, forts and exquisite stepwells of India’s must-see cities, conveniently concentrated in the form of a charming hillside village. Experience the best of Indian life here, from savoring the famous local masala chai to breathing in the aromatic spices from the town’s eclectic street food vendors.
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Hotel Hadoti Palace, or similar, Bundi
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Hotel Hadoti Palace, or similar, Bundi
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
Broken Hills and Floating Palaces
After a traditional Indian breakfast, venture through the lush lakes and “broken hills” of the Aravalli Mountains on your way to the vibrant city of Udaipur, a lakeside oasis that has long attracted India’s elite. Feel like royalty as you boat around the vast palace floating on Lake Pichola. Enjoy some solo exploring this afternoon. This evening, revel in a vivid display of traditional dance in a heritage haveli (traditional, private dwelling), demonstrating why Udaipur has earned a reputation as the faithful protector of Rajasthani artistic traditions.
Broken Hills and Floating Palaces
After a traditional Indian breakfast, venture through the lush lakes and “broken hills” of the Aravalli Mountains on your way to the vibrant city of Udaipur, a lakeside oasis that has long attracted India’s elite. Feel like royalty as you boat around the vast palace floating on Lake Pichola. Enjoy some solo exploring this afternoon. This evening, revel in a vivid display of traditional dance in a heritage haveli (traditional, private dwelling), demonstrating why Udaipur has earned a reputation as the faithful protector of Rajasthani artistic traditions.
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Hotel Rampratap, or similar, Udaipur
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Hotel Rampratap, or similar, Udaipur
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Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8
Spices, Temples and Ghats
Explore the vibrant day to day life of Udaipur as you walk from fragrant markets to serene ghats (steps leading to a holy water source). Survey the ornate, deeply-inspiring carvings of the Jagdish Temple. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this has been a site of continuous Hindu worship and pilgrimage since 1651. You’ll have a few hours free to explore the streets and lakeshores of town, before learning the masala method during an Indian cooking class.
Spices, Temples and Ghats
Explore the vibrant day to day life of Udaipur as you walk from fragrant markets to serene ghats (steps leading to a holy water source). Survey the ornate, deeply-inspiring carvings of the Jagdish Temple. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this has been a site of continuous Hindu worship and pilgrimage since 1651. You’ll have a few hours free to explore the streets and lakeshores of town, before learning the masala method during an Indian cooking class.
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Hotel Rampratap palace, or similar, Udaipur
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Hotel Rampratap palace, or similar, Udaipur
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Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9
The Grateful Village of Piplantri
Arriving in Piplantri, you’re instantly struck with the health and density of its surrounding forests. This is for very good reason - every time a girl is born in the village, the village bands together to plant 111 trees in her honor. The results of this tradition are tremendous - not only are little girls welcomed with gratitude, but the village itself has also benefited from greater harmony and environmental security. Enjoy an authentic Rajasthani lunch, cooked for you by the women of the village. This evening, you reach your home for the next two nights, the luxury tents at the Jawai Pug Marg Safari Lodge.
The Grateful Village of Piplantri
Arriving in Piplantri, you’re instantly struck with the health and density of its surrounding forests. This is for very good reason - every time a girl is born in the village, the village bands together to plant 111 trees in her honor. The results of this tradition are tremendous - not only are little girls welcomed with gratitude, but the village itself has also benefited from greater harmony and environmental security. Enjoy an authentic Rajasthani lunch, cooked for you by the women of the village. This evening, you reach your home for the next two nights, the luxury tents at the Jawai Pug Marg Safari Lodge.
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The Jawai Leopard Kingdom Hotel, Jawai Dam
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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The Jawai Leopard Kingdom Hotel, Jawai Dam
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10
Rajasthani Leopard Safari
Jawai is a small, off-the-beaten track village known for its large dam. You are one of the few lucky travelers that will discover the stunning natural beauty of this area, with a lushness that attracts and supports a wide diversity of wildlife, including more than 100 species of migratory birds each year. Wander around the village in the morning, before heading out on a leopard safari in the afternoon. You might also spot panthers, hyenas, gazelles, bears, and crocodiles. After watching the sunset over the river with a cup of tea in hand, you’ll return to your camp, to enjoy a traditional Rajasthani banquet feast, trading wildlife stories and photos with your fellow adventurers.
Rajasthani Leopard Safari
Jawai is a small, off-the-beaten track village known for its large dam. You are one of the few lucky travelers that will discover the stunning natural beauty of this area, with a lushness that attracts and supports a wide diversity of wildlife, including more than 100 species of migratory birds each year. Wander around the village in the morning, before heading out on a leopard safari in the afternoon. You might also spot panthers, hyenas, gazelles, bears, and crocodiles. After watching the sunset over the river with a cup of tea in hand, you’ll return to your camp, to enjoy a traditional Rajasthani banquet feast, trading wildlife stories and photos with your fellow adventurers.
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The Jawai Leopard Kingdom Hotel, Jawai Dam
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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The Jawai Leopard Kingdom Hotel, Jawai Dam
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11
The Blue City
Jodhpur is a striking azure contrast to the pink of Jaipur. This ‘Blue City’ is known for its equestrian culture, eponymous riding pants, and the sprawling Mehrangarh Fort that watches over it upon a hill. Enjoy a guided walk around some of the highlights of the city, such as the 18th century Toorji ka Jhalra stepwell, the clock tower and the eclectic markets of Jodphur.
The Blue City
Jodhpur is a striking azure contrast to the pink of Jaipur. This ‘Blue City’ is known for its equestrian culture, eponymous riding pants, and the sprawling Mehrangarh Fort that watches over it upon a hill. Enjoy a guided walk around some of the highlights of the city, such as the 18th century Toorji ka Jhalra stepwell, the clock tower and the eclectic markets of Jodphur.
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Ratan Vilas or similar, Jodhpur
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Ratan Vilas or similar, Jodhpur
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Breakfast, Dinner
Day 12
Wonders of Jodhpur
It’s hard to imagine, but there are still more incredible sites to see in marvelous Jodhpur. The mesmerizing Umaid Bhawan Palace contains one of the world’s largest private residences, and it still has room for a Taj Hotel and a museum complex on the same property! The combination of Western Art Deco and Indo-Saracenic influences make this “Indo-Deco'' compound unique. Mehrangarh Fort is next. Explore the fort’s expansive courtyards and inspiring collections of art. In the evening, it’s time to take a sleeper train - an unmissable Indian travel experience - back to Delhi.
Wonders of Jodhpur
It’s hard to imagine, but there are still more incredible sites to see in marvelous Jodhpur. The mesmerizing Umaid Bhawan Palace contains one of the world’s largest private residences, and it still has room for a Taj Hotel and a museum complex on the same property! The combination of Western Art Deco and Indo-Saracenic influences make this “Indo-Deco'' compound unique. Mehrangarh Fort is next. Explore the fort’s expansive courtyards and inspiring collections of art. In the evening, it’s time to take a sleeper train - an unmissable Indian travel experience - back to Delhi.
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Sleeper car on the train
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Sleeper car on the train
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Breakfast, Dinner
Day 13
A Day out in Delhi
One of the greatest experiences of traveling in India is wandering, exploring, and talking to the locals. Back in Delhi, search for mementos at the street markets, try some chaat (snacks) from a street stall, or adventure to the parks and promenades of posh South Delhi. The day is yours to enjoy. If you’d like to continue with your guide, we’ll have a range of tours available to make further discoveries easy. Gather for a delicious farewell dinner, telling stories of adventures shared and savoring one last Indian meal together.
A Day out in Delhi
One of the greatest experiences of traveling in India is wandering, exploring, and talking to the locals. Back in Delhi, search for mementos at the street markets, try some chaat (snacks) from a street stall, or adventure to the parks and promenades of posh South Delhi. The day is yours to enjoy. If you’d like to continue with your guide, we’ll have a range of tours available to make further discoveries easy. Gather for a delicious farewell dinner, telling stories of adventures shared and savoring one last Indian meal together.
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Hotel Jaypee Sidhartha, or similar, New Delhi
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Hotel Jaypee Sidhartha, or similar, New Delhi
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Breakfast, Dinner
Day 14
Farewell to India
An incredible journey has come to an end… or has it? If you so choose, you could extend your trip to see more of this beautiful and unique country. Check out the Atlas Obscura Guide to India for itinerary inspiration.
Farewell to India
An incredible journey has come to an end… or has it? If you so choose, you could extend your trip to see more of this beautiful and unique country. Check out the Atlas Obscura Guide to India for itinerary inspiration.
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Breakfast
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Breakfast
What is included?
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Accommodations throughout the trip.
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Most meals (as described in the itinerary).
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Transportation (as described in the itinerary), including airport transfers.
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AO Trip Leader throughout the trip.
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Admission/entry to activities (as described in the itinerary).
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Special access to AO places and experiences (as described in the itinerary).
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All gratuities (not including AO Trip Leader).
What is not included?
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Flights to and from destination.
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Pre/Post trip accommodations.
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Travel insurance (strongly recommended).
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Visas and passport fees.
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Meals outside of those described (including most alcoholic beverages).
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AO Trip Leader tip.
Additional info
Pricing & Trip Deposit
Deposit to book your trip: $250 USD.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
The listed price of the trip is per person based on double occupancy.
Pricing & Trip Deposit
Deposit to book your trip: $250 USD.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
The listed price of the trip is per person based on double occupancy.
Traveling Solo?
You’re in good company.
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost:
2024 departures: $740 USD per person
2025 departures: $750 USD per person
2025 Holi (March) & Diwali (October) departures: $770 USD per person
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Traveling Solo?
You’re in good company.
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost:
2024 departures: $740 USD per person
2025 departures: $750 USD per person
2025 Holi (March) & Diwali (October) departures: $770 USD per person
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Activity Level
India is a bustling country with many high-population cities. Travelers should be prepared for high-energy, high-stimulation (sounds, and colors, and sights, and smells). Some may find the air quality challenging in cities with dense traffic. This trip covers a lot of ground so travelers should be able to easily move their suitcases on and off of cars and trains.
In general, travelers should feel comfortable walking two to four miles over the course of each day, remaining on their feet for long periods of time, and sometimes walking on uneven terrain.
Activity Level
India is a bustling country with many high-population cities. Travelers should be prepared for high-energy, high-stimulation (sounds, and colors, and sights, and smells). Some may find the air quality challenging in cities with dense traffic. This trip covers a lot of ground so travelers should be able to easily move their suitcases on and off of cars and trains.
In general, travelers should feel comfortable walking two to four miles over the course of each day, remaining on their feet for long periods of time, and sometimes walking on uneven terrain.
Arrival & Departure
You should plan to arrive by 2 p.m. on Day 1, and depart anytime on Day 14. Delhi International Airport (DEL) connects to a range of flight hubs in Asia and Europe. The best flight connections to Delhi are offered by Air India and Turkish Airlines.
*Airport transfers are only provided if arriving & departing on the trip dates, or if pre/post arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura.
Arrival & Departure
You should plan to arrive by 2 p.m. on Day 1, and depart anytime on Day 14. Delhi International Airport (DEL) connects to a range of flight hubs in Asia and Europe. The best flight connections to Delhi are offered by Air India and Turkish Airlines.
*Airport transfers are only provided if arriving & departing on the trip dates, or if pre/post arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura.
Festival Departures
Celebrate two of India's most famed festivals with us during our March and October departures.
Holi is the Festival of Colors and will take place in March. Held in the spring, it is a vibrant celebration of love often featuring colored powder liberally shared.
Diwali is the five day Festival of Lights taking place in late October/early November. Diwali celebrations are varied and diverse, but often include fireworks, exchanging sweets and gifts, and a focus on renewal and prosperity.
Festival Departures
Celebrate two of India's most famed festivals with us during our March and October departures.
Holi is the Festival of Colors and will take place in March. Held in the spring, it is a vibrant celebration of love often featuring colored powder liberally shared.
Diwali is the five day Festival of Lights taking place in late October/early November. Diwali celebrations are varied and diverse, but often include fireworks, exchanging sweets and gifts, and a focus on renewal and prosperity.
Any questions about this trip? Don't hesitate to reach out
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Call us at +1 833-919-9154
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Send us a
Frequently asked questions
What positive impact will I have by taking this trip?
Your participation in this trip will provide significant financial contributions to the communities we visit, directly supporting small businesses, schools, villages, and local families. In addition, this trip's focus on traditional customs will help to preserve and maintain them for future generations.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
India can easily accommodate vegetarian travelers as a significant portion of the population doesn't eat meat. Most other dietary restrictions can be accommodated, though in most cases ingredients can't be substituted or omitted from particular dishes. If you have a severe allergy, please contact us to find out if this is the right trip for you. It can be difficult to guarantee there is no risk of cross contamination.
What are the Visa and/or passport requirements for this trip?
A visa is required for travel to India. Please check requirements for travel to India and any countries passed through in transit. Apply online or through a visa service. A passport is required for international travel. We recommend your passport expire at least six months after your return home.
Do I need any vaccinations and/or medications?
The CDC recommends all travelers be up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Please check these recommendations and discuss them with your doctor.
Have more questions?
Check out the Essential Trip Information for this trip or our general FAQs.
Trip Leader
Komal Darira
For a decade, Komal has been a trailblazer in India's travel and tourism scene. Starting her guiding journey at just 19, she quickly became one of the city's first female guides. Fuelled by her love for Indian culture, cuisine, and heritage, Komal's tours are more than just sightseeing - they're immersive journeys into the heart of India. Komal's mission is clear: to dispel misconceptions about India and showcase its true essence. Through her tours, she weaves together stories of history, tradition, and diversity, inviting travelers to experience India beyond the surface. With Komal as your guide, embark on a transformative journey that goes beyond sightseeing. Delve deep into the heart of India's culture, traditions, and women's experiences, gaining a profound understanding of this multifaceted country. Are you ready to explore India's beauty and complexity through the eyes of its women? Join Komal on an unforgettable journey of discovery, where each moment brings you closer to understanding the rich tapestry of India's past, present, and future.
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Trip inquiry
Have a question for us about Delhi and Rajasthan: Colors of India? We're here to help!
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Call us at +1 646-961-4857
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Trip inquiry
Have a question for us about Delhi and Rajasthan: Colors of India? We're here to help!
-
Call us at +1 833-919-9154
-
Check out our FAQ
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.