Safar : North India Raj & Taj + HOLI festival
DELHI - AGRA - JAIPUR - BIJAIPUR - UDAIPUR - DELHI
MARCH 13-25, 2027
Twin Share - $6700
Private Room Supplement - $1000
*all prices in Australian dollars
Step past the tourist ropes and immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of colour, texture, and living heritage. Join celebrated Adelaide artist Dana Kinter and our local treasure and guide Jav for a 13-day creative pilgrimage into the heart of North India. Designed specifically for those who wish to feel the ink on their hands, hear the stories behind the stitches, and observe the world through an artist’s eye, this immersive journey balances historic landmarks with hands-on studio masterclasses.
The soul of this itinerary lies in the privilege of entering working creative spaces to learn ancient, multi-generational art forms directly from the masters keeping them alive.
In the artisan village of Bagru, we step back in time to learn the meditative rhythms of traditional mud-resist printing, wooden block stamping, and natural indigo dyeing. We share a creative circle with local craftswomen during an embroidery workshop, uncovering the delicate stitching techniques and intricate fabric traditions that have been quietly passed down through generations. We enjoy the privilege of entering the home studio of a master artist for a study of the sacred world of Pichwai painting.
Tracey - Sydney AUS
More than just a trip through Northern India, Dana led us on an unforgettable tour of uniquely curated experiences and specialised workshops. Her passion and enthusiasm for India was infectious. Whether it was visiting iconic sights, meeting talented artisans and everyday people or being immersed in creative workshops, she made sure that all in the group of like minded travellers felt included, welcomed and had fun. Capably led by Javed, as well as seeing the classical sights (from monuments to markets), staying in unforgettable accommodation, experiencing many forms of transport and eating delicious food, we came away with a deeper insight into culture and life in contemporary India. Javed’s knowledge and experience teamed perfectly with Dana’s excellent communication skills ensuring everything was thoroughly organised. India has long been a bucket list destination for me and Dana’s tour met all the expectations and more.
Over 13 days, this journey unfolds across a landscape of architectural marvels and historic hubs. We will wander through the history and aromatic spaces of Delhi's Old Market, find moments of quiet reflection at the majestic Jama Masjid and the historic SheeshGanj Gurudwara, and stand before the timeless symmetry of the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort. From there, the path winds into Rajasthan to explore the golden textures of Amber Palace, the surreal astronomical forms of Jantar Mantar, and the iconic, pink-lacquered facade of Hawa Mahal.
Our journey leads us to the romantic, lakeside spaces of Udaipur’s City Palace just in time for Holi, the beautiful Hindu festival of colour, love, and spring. Representing new beginnings, forgiveness, and divine love. On the eve of the festival, we will walk through the historic Old Town of Udaipur to watch large, symbolic bonfires light up the dark, signifying the triumph of light over evil. The following morning, the ancient alleyways transform into a living canvas of joy as we join locals to gently play with brightly coloured powders and water in a shared ritual of fresh starts.
Complementing the visual arts, a thoughtful culinary awakening introduces you to the rich flavors and traditions of North Indian cuisine. We will step into a kitchen to learn the delicate balance of local spices, preparing a traditional lunch using treasured family recipes. Between studio sessions, you can absorb the local street culture, cooling down with creamy kulfi or pausing to sip piping-hot chai prepared by local vendors. Whether you are capturing the beautiful desert palaces on camera, chatting over a warm cup of tea, or simply enjoying the journey this tour will leave you feeling completely inspired and refreshed.
Our journey begins the moment you are collected from the Delhi airport and arrive at our first 5-star hotel. We will start with the bustling energy of Delhi (2 nights), followed by a scenic train ride to Agra (1 night). From there, a private, air-conditioned vehicle will take us to the famous "Pink City" of Jaipur (3 nights). Next, we head by private bus to experience the peaceful luxury of rural Rajasthan during a heritage stay at Castle Bijaipur (2 nights). Finally, we make our way to Udaipur (3 nights), the beautiful "City of Lakes" to experience the magic of the Holi festival before flying back to Delhi for our final evening (1 night). It is 13 days and 12 nights filled with delight and awe, and I am already looking forward to making lifelong travel friends.
itinerary
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~ day 1 ~ Delhi
NAMASTE WELCOME TO INDIA
Namaste and welcome to INDIA!
Our tour begins this evening at 6:00 pm. We will meet at our hotel, allowing you to enjoy a chai, shake off any jet lag and relax while we wait for all our friends to arrive. Later in the evening, we’ll come together for a welcome meeting and dinner at one of Delhi's famous restaurants to get to know each other before our magical adventure begins.
Meals included : Dinner -
~ day 2 ~ Delhi
HUSTLE BUSTLE OF OLD/NEW DELHI
Today we do all things Delhi! Let's start with a BANG on a thrilling rickshaw and walking tour through the lively sights and sounds of this ancient city. We begin at the bustling Chandni Chowk market, navigating its alleys to soak in the atmosphere. Afterward, we’ll visit the magnificent Jama Masjid—the oldest mosque in Delhi—followed by a trip to the SheeshGanj Gurudwara to learn about the Sikh faith. To round out our day of cultural discovery, we will finish at the fascinating National Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy.
Meals included : Breakfast
Sightseeing : Jama Masjid, Sheeshganj Gurudwara and National Crafts Museum -
~ day 3 ~ Agra
THE TAJ MAHAL
We’re starting off the day bright and early, catching the morning train to Agra, which is one of my favourite travel experiences. Today, we’ll dive into our tourist adventures by visiting two UNESCO World Heritage sites. First up is the magnificent Red Fort, a 16th-century Mughal fortress made of striking red sandstone. In the afternoon, we’ll marvel at the breathtaking Taj Mahal, India’s most iconic monument and a timeless symbol of love. The Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, who commissioned this masterpiece, famously remarked that its beauty made “the sun and the moon shed tears from their eyes.”
Meals included : Breakfast
Sightseeing : Red Fort and Taj Mahal -
~ day 4 ~ Jaipur
THE PINK CITY
Hopping onto our private, air-conditioned bus, we’re heading to the "Pink City" of Jaipur. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our charming heritage haveli, giving you some time to unwind before we explore the vibrant streets. Later, a guided walking tour will introduce us to the city's incredible marble and stone artisans, metal craftsmen, and bustling spice market.
Meals included : Breakfast
Sightseeing : Walking Pink City tour -
~ day 5 ~ Jaipur
AMBER PALACE AND NILA HOUSE
Today is going to be full of fun! We begin at the Amber Palace, a stunning masterpiece of yellow and pink sandstone and white marble. Next, we head to Nila House, a wonderful non-profit dedicated to sustainable design and community empowerment. Here, we’ll join a textile and embroidery workshop led by local craftswomen, learning heritage skills firsthand to create our own appliquéd artworks.
Meals included : Breakfast
Sightseeing : Amber Palace
Workshop/art : Nila House Studio -
~ day 6 ~ Jaipur
WOODBLOCK, DABU PRINTING & INDIGO AND THE SUN AND MOON AND STARS
This morning, we’re heading to the artisan village of Bagru, famous for hand-woodblock printing. We’ll tour local studios to learn traditional block printing and natural dyes before creating your own block-printed masterpiece. In the afternoon, we look to the stars at my favourite site, Jantar Mantar, home to the world’s largest stone sundial.
Meals included : Breakfast
Sightseeing : Jantar Mantar
Workshop/art : Hand woodblock printing -
~ day 7 ~ Bijaipur
RELAX IN A SMALL RURAL VILLAGE
After a jam-packed few days, we'll welcome a comfy, air-conditioned bus ride to Bijaipur We’ll spend two nights in a 16th-century castle turned heritage hotel. It’s the perfect place to unwind. You can soak in the enchanting atmosphere, stroll through beautiful gardens surrounded by fortress walls, or take a dip in the castle pool before dinner. Yep, you heard that right—we're staying in a castle!
Meals included : Breakfast and Dinner -
~ day 8 ~ Bijaipur
JEEP SAFARI VILLAGE TOUR
This morning is all about recharging. You can book an Ayurvedic massage, float in the pool, or explore the village outside our doorstep. In the afternoon, we head out on a sunset jeep safari through the countryside, visiting local farms and greeting the local children. After a stunning sunset, we’ll enjoy a poolside dinner featuring delicious local dishes and fresh naan straight from an outdoor tandoor oven.
Meals included : Breakfast and Dinner -
~ day 9 ~ Udaipur
UDAIPUR, THE CITY OF LAKES
This morning, we take an early journey to stunning Udaipur the "City of Lakes," beautifully framed by tranquil waters and hills. Today marks the spectacular beginning of Holi the ancient Hindu festival celebrating the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. We will join the locals as the entire city transforms into a living canvas of joy
Included meals : Breakfast
Sightseeing : HOLI -
~ day 10 ~ Udaipur
CITY PALACE
We begin our day playing with colour in vibrant Holi celebrations! Afterward, we’ll tour the City Palace, marvelling at its dazzling mirror work and ceramic tiles. The afternoon is free to stroll through local markets or relax in a lakeside café. Ending with a local cooking class, learning the secrets of Indian cuisine before sharing our creations for dinner.
Included meals : Breakfast and Dinner
Workshop/art : Local cooking class -
~ day 11 ~ Udaipur
BOAT RIDE LAKE PICHOLA
Today, we join a masterclass on Pichwai, a traditional art form of devotion. While often mistaken for miniatures, Pichwai works are large, pieces created with fine brushstrokes. To celebrate our final evening together in India, we’ll enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Pichola followed by a farewell rooftop dinner.
Included meals : Breakfast
Sightseeing : Pichwai Masterclass, Boat ride -
~ day 12 ~ Delhi
EXPLORE LIKE A LOCAL
Enjoy a free morning to explore your favourite spots in Udaipur like a local and squeeze in some last-minute shopping before we catch our afternoon flight back to Delhi.
Included meals : Breakfast and Dinner -
~ day thirteen ~
TIL NEXT TIME FRIENDS
Our final morning together brings our incredible India adventure to an end. We will share breakfast, say our goodbyes, and help you on your way. Until next time—Namaste.
Included meals : Breakfast
Kristy and Ellie - Melbourne AUS
This was our first experience of traveling on a tour and I’m not sure we’ll ever be able to find another tour that lives up to this. From the itinerary including all the workshops, castles, palaces, restaurants and fabulous accommodation, to the relaxed and happy vibes Dana and Javed fostered in the group. We loved not having to think about a thing and Dana and Javed being one step ahead always knowing what we wanted or needed before we knew ourselves! My daughter and I dreamed of visiting India together when she finished school, this was the ultimate adventure and we can’t thank Dana and Javed enough for bringing this dream to life and making it better than we ever dared to dream.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Accommodation - On twin-share basis (single room if paying single supplement)
Meals - All breakfasts plus 5 dinners mentioned in the itinerary
Dana and Jav, your host and tour guide accompanying through entire trip
Airport arrival transfer
Train Delhi to Agra
All sightseeing tours, including all entrance fees and local guides accordingly
Long-distance travel by private air-conditioned bus
Economy airfare Udaipur to Delhi on day 12
Guided tour - Delhi - Jama Masjid, Sikh Temple and Old Dehli Market
Guided tour - Agra - Red Fort and The Taj Mahal
Guided tour - Jaipur - Pink City walking tour, Amber Palace, Jantar Mantar and Hawa Mahal
Guided tour - Bijaipur - Village Jeep Safari
Guided tour - Udaipur - Old City walking tour, City Palace, Holi Festival
Art/workshops - Delhi - National Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy
Art/workshops - Jaipur - Nila Textile Workshop and Woodblock Printing Workshop
Art/workshops - Udaipur - Cooking Class, Pichwai Painting Masterclass
Sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola, Udaipur
Bottled water and hand sanitiser daily
All activities as per the itinerary
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
International airfares
Medical and Travel Insurance
Indian visa
Departure transfers
Meals other than specified above
Any other services not covered above
Personal expenses such as massage, laundry, beverages, telephone calls etc.
Group Tip kitty - Local guide and driver tipping is customary for tours in India
Tip for our Jav
ROOM OPTIONS
Price is based on twin share accommodation. Please see room options below
1.Bring a travel buddy and share a room.
2.Pay the Single Supplement of $1000 AUD and have your own room during the tour.
Please note: We don’t offer room matching for solo travellers. If you’d like the twin share price, you’ll need to book with a travel companion.