A small group journey for women to India

RAJASTHAN REVEALED

Celebrating HOLI! | Departing February 2026

Holi India 2026

India is a land of remarkable diversity – from ancient traditions and artistic heritage to magnificent landscapes and culinary creations – India will ignite your curiosity, shake your senses and warm your soul. It is a land of fortified cities, royal families in astounding palaces and humble villages where women in blindingly bright saris go about their daily routine. India is brimming with life, colourful and chaotic …

Our 2026 journey commences in Delhi on 27 February or, if time permits, there is an option to travel to the sacred city of Varanasi to witness ancient rituals on the banks of the mighty Ganges River – adding a spectacular first four days to your Indian immersion. If you are only delving straight into Rajasthan, we will commence in Delhi on 27 February, spending time exploring both the Old & New Delhi before making our way to Agra and the pink city of Jaipur where we will celebrate the Holi colour festival before travelling to Pushkar, Jodhpur and the quaint village of Narlai before arriving in our final destination of Udaipur. We will ride tuk-tuks like locals, visit ancient forts and palaces, take serene boat rides on holy lakes and rise at dawn to the sound of the muezzin’s call to experience ‘real’ India as the cities wake. And we will, of course, visit the greatest monument to love – the Taj Mahal!

The peak of our journey will be the Hindu Spring Festival of Holi, which we will celebrate in Jaipur. Across India, the streets will explode with colour in a dazzling celebration of life, love and joy. We will be swept up in the mesmerising displays of dance and music on this hugely significant, joyous and unmissable day!

Throughout the itinerary we will stay in a collection of exquisite hotels ranging from royal hunting lodges to beautifully styled historic havelis and the dining experience will be sublime – expect ancient family recipes, modern fine dining and breathtaking settings. There will be plenty of opportunity for retail therapy (the shopping here is unreal!) and of course, you will enjoy the companionship of a small group of like-minded female travellers.

Join us on this magical journey through all the captivating contradictions, curiosity and colour of India!

14 or 18 UNFORGETTABLE DAYS

Holi India - with or without an extension to Varanasi

Our 2026 Holi Itinerary provides you with the option to commence your journey on Tuesday, 24 February, with a pre-tour journey to India’s holiest city, Varanasi OR join the main tour on Saturday, 28 February – reducing the length of your time away. Please don’t hesitate to call to discuss the best option for you.

VARANASI PRE-TOUR EXTENSION : 24 - 27 FEBRUARY

TUE 24 FEB : Arrive in Delhi today. Pending your time of arrival you may enjoy a tipple, a cup of tea, or head straight to bed! Roseate House Aerocity, Delhi – 1 night including breakfast

WED 25 FEB : Fly to Varanasi this morning. After stopping for lunch en route to our Haveli, we will settle in before taking a walk along the iconic Varanasi Ghats, passing saffron-robed sadhus offering blessings, and watching life on the Ganges unfold. As twilight descends our walk culminates in witnessing the nightly Ganga Aarti ceremony – a timeless ritual of fire, prayer and devotion.
Amritara Suryauday Haveli, Varanasi – 2 nights including breakfast

THU 26 FEB : At dawn the city and the river are coming alive and a boat ride on the Ganges is an incredible way to start the day as multitudes of devotees come to the river to pay homage to their gods. After breakfast, we’ll enjoy a walking tour through the old town, followed by an afternoon at leisure and an evening boat ride floating silently past the illuminated ghats, pausing to witness the Aarti’s dancing flames.

FRI 27 FEB: This morning we travel just beyond the city to Sarnath, one of Buddhism’s holiest sites, before transferring to the airport for our return flight to Delhi. On arrival we’ll transfer to Old Delhi to rendezvous with fellow travellers who arrive today.

DAY 1 | FRI 27 FEBRUARY | Arrive in Delhi | 2 NIGHTS

For guests joining today, fly to Delhi where you will be met at the airport and transferred to this evening’s accommodation, allowing you time to join your fellow travellers for a drink, relax and unwind or proceed to your room.

Golden Haveli Dharampura, Delhi – 2 nights including breakfast

DAY 2 | SAT 28 FEBRUARY | DELHI | 2 NIGHTS

Navigate the fascinating lanes of Old Delhi, soaking in the rich heritage of Chandni Chowk by rickshaw this morning. Later enjoy a walking tour of the spice market, silver jewellers and wedding outfitters along with a visit to Jama Masjid – the largest mosque in India.

DAY 3 | SUN 01 MARCH | DELHI to AGRA | 1 NIGHT

Depart by road for Agra and on arrival tour Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Emperor Akbar. After checking in we’ll enjoy sunset views of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh (the Moonlit Garden).

Tajview – IHCL SeleQtions, Agra – 1 night including breakfast

DAY 4 | MON 02 MARCH | AGRA to JAIPUR | 3 NIGHTS

Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise and marvel at the changing colours as you explore the surrounding gardens and enter the mausoleum itself. After breakfast we visit a marble inlay workshop and stop at Sheroes Café before travelling by road to Jaipur, arriving in time for sundowners.

Padmaa Haveli, Jaipur – 3 nights including breakfast

DAY 5 | TUE 03 MARCH | JAIPUR

Set off early for a gentle walk through the quiet backstreets as Jaipur awakes. Wander the colourful flower and vegetable market before visiting the Hawa Mahal, Gem Emporium and stunning boutique hotel enclave.

This afternoon you can shop, relax or take an optional visit to Amber Fort.

DAY 6 | WED 04 MARCH | JAIPUR - Happy Holi!

Don your white kurtas and enjoy breakfast before walking to the nearby temple for a morning of colours and dancing.

Continue the celebration at a Holi party for as long as you wish – a day filled with joy and fun.

DAY 7 | THU 05 MARCH | JAIPUR to PUSHKAR | 2 NIGHTS

Join a hands-on block printing class this morning where you’ll create your own keepsake, then drive to Pushkar for check-in and sundowners.

Pushkar Palace – 2 nights including breakfast

DAY 8 | FRI 06 MARCH | PUSHKAR

Enjoy a walking tour of the temples and markets surrounding the sacred lake.

This afternoon is at leisure for shopping or a massage before departing on a camel safari through the Thar Desert at sunset.

DAY 9 | SAT 07 MARCH | PUSHKAR to JODHPUR | 2 NIGHTS

We travel through the Aravalli Hills stopping enroute to visit a textile emporium and snack on samosas before arriving in the Blue City of Jodhpur.

The Stepwell Hotel, Jodhpur – 2 nights including breakfast

DAY 10 | SUN 08 MARCH | JODHPUR

Enjoy sightseeing in Jodhpur with a guided visit to the Meherangarh Fort and cenotaphs, followed by a walk through the blue lanes of the old city.

This afternoon visit a restored stepwell and Jodhpur’s leading boutique stores. Includes dinner.

DAY 11 | MON 09 MARCH | JODHPUR to NARLAI | 2 NIGHTS

Travel to the village of Narlai, settle in with lunch in the gardens and enjoy time to relax before heading out on an afternoon leopard safari.

Rawla Narlai – 2 nights including breakfast & one stepwell dinner

DAY 12 | TUES 10 MARCH | NARLAI

Join an optional dawn hike for panoramic views before returning for breakfast. Later take a walking tour through the village or relax poolside, before enjoying a spectacular hosted stepwell dinner this evening.

DAY 13 | WED 11 MARCH | NARLAI to UDAIPUR | 2 NIGHTS

Depart for Udaipur, stopping enroute to visit the Botanical Gardens before checking in. Later enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola as the sun sets behind the City Palace.

Fateh Garh Palace Hotel – 2 nights including breakfast

DAY 14 | WED 12 MARCH | UDAIPUR | 2 NIGHTS

Visit the City Palace on a walking tour before time for last-minute shopping or a visit to the local artisans.

This evening we gather for a special farewell dinner overlooking the lake. Includes dinner.

DAY 15 | WED 13 MARCH | UDAIPUR to DELHI | DEPARTURE

We fly from Udaipur to Bangalore or Delhi and connect through to your international flight home.

Namaste and safe travels!

FOR A FULL COLOUR, DETAILED ITINERARY GET IN TOUCH

WHERE YOU’LL STAY

A selection of stylish accommodation

Golden Haveli Dharampura – Old Delhi

Located in the historic heart of Old Delhi, nestled among the narrow alleyways of Chandani Chowk, one of the oldest bazaars in the city and just a stone's throw away from some of Delhi's best-loved attractions, you will find Golden Haveli Dharampura. Steeped in history, Golden Haveli Dharampura joins its ‘big sister’ Haveli Dharampura, in preserving India's important historical buildings.Read More

Tajview Hotel – Agra, Northern India

Set amidst six acres of landscaped gardens, the Tajview Hotel in Agra offers superior rooms designed with a mix of contemporary and Mughal design, all with magnificent views of the Taj Mahal. Tajview - a fantastic setting in between exploring all of Agra's treasures right on the doorstep. Read More

Padmaa Haveli – Jaipur

Padmaa Haveli blends artisanal elegance with mindful hospitality in one of India’s most enchanting cities. Set within a restored heritage building, this intimate property offers thoughtfully designed suites, locally sourced cuisine, and spaces that invite both reflection and community. Guests can enjoy luxury, comfort and solitude just moments from Jaipur’s cultural landmarks. Read More

Pushkar Palace Hotel

Dramatically perched over the shimmering Pushkar Lake, Hotel Pushkar Palace is a unique heritage retreat. There is no better place to sit and enjoy breathtaking views than on the terrace here, listening to the bells and chants of the nearby temples and ghats carried gently on the breeze.Read More

The Stepwell Hotel – Jodhpur

The Stepwell House offers an exquisite stay within Jodhpur’s historic quarter, adjacent to the city’s famed Toorji Ka Jhalra stepwell. With its seven thoughtfully designed suites, the hotel blends contemporary luxury with centuries-old Marwari heritage. Guests can savour traditional Rajasthani cuisine, unwind on the rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the Blue City, and experience Jodhpur’s vibrant culture just steps from their door. Read More

Rawla Narlai – Narlai Village, Rajasthan

Located between Udaipur and Jodhpur in the heart of the Aravalli Hills of rural Rajasthan, Narlai is the ideal spot to break your journey and take a breath within the busy itineraries of our luxury India tours. This 17th century property was once a favourite hunting lodge of the Jodhpur royal family. Today, a real highlight at Rawla Narlai is the ‘Stepwell Dinner’, dining by candlelight Read More

Fateh Garh Palace Hotel – Udaipur

Fateh Garh Palace Hotel is a Heritage Renaissance Resort where luxury living and environmental friendliness go hand-in-hand. The property incorporates local stone and antique architectural elements and is home to two fabulous infinity pools, an indulgent spa and an impressive collection of vintage cars! Read More

Amritara Suryauday Haveli – Varanasi

Amritara Suryauday Haveli offers an elegant riverside retreat along the banks of the Ganges, blending historic charm with modern comforts. Originally built as a nobleman’s residence in the early 20th century, this boutique haveli features refined interiors, traditional architecture, and sweeping river views. The serene setting is perfect for immersing yourself in Varanasi’s spiritual atmosphere while enjoying warm hospitality and personalised service.Read More

NEED TO KNOW

$8,890 per person, twin share - Rajasthan Itinerary 27 Feb-13 Mar 2026
$1,850 per person, twin share - Varanasi Add On 24-27 Feb

START: Delhi | Finish: Udaipur

Inclusions

Hosted ex Delhi by Sarah Hoyland
14 nights in boutique havelis, palaces & hotels
Breakfast daily + Welcome & Farewell Dinners
Stepwell Dinner in Narlai
Rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk
Sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal
Traditional cooking class in Udaipur
Block prin􀆟ng master class in Jaipur
Sunset camel ride in Pushkar
Holi colour festival celebrations in Jaipur
Leopard safari in Narlai
Sunset cruise on Lake Pichola
Walking tours in Old Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur and Narlai
Bottled water on our touring vehicle
All arrival and departure transfers on dates specified
Land transportation in air-conditioned deluxe vehicle
All touring hosted by a qualified, English-speaking guide
All entrance fees to monuments detailed
Exceptional retail therapy opportunities
All gratuities for porters, local guides & group restaurant meals whilst on tour
Once in a lifetime, experiences throughout the journey
Small group of like-minded ladies

VARANASI add on also includes

Dawn boat cruise on the Holy Ganges River
Walking tour of the Old City
Evening boat cruise & Aarti Ceremony
Visit to Sarnath

^meals in India are often a grand affair so three meals per day is often unnecessary. Where lunch is included, dinner may not, but there will be plenty of snacks available.

Exclusions

All flight arrangements plus all applicable pre-paid departure taxes
Travel Insurance and individual health requirements
Additional meals & snacks + all drinks
Room or ﬂight upgrades
Transfers to any flight other than specified airports in the itinerary
Laundry, camera fees (minimal) and personal purchases
India Tourist Visa
Discretionary tip for Indian Guide (budget $250)
Items of a personal nature & any item not speciﬁed

Minimum – 8 travellers

Maximum – 16 (plus host)

Your choice of commencement date may dictate the best possible airline. Please call to discuss your individual flight requirements.

Recommended Routings to Delhi : Singapore Airlines via Singapore | Qantas via Melbourne & Bangalore | Air India DIRECT to Delhi [Domestic add on flights available]

Terms and conditions apply – please click here for full details.
This tour departs with a minimum of 10 people and a maximum of 17 people (plus host).
A single-room supplement of AUD 2,200 applies if you are travelling solo and wish to secure your own room on the main tour, and an additional AUD 890 applies for a single room in Varanasi.
The price is subject to change due to currency fluctuation and unforeseen changes beyond our control.
We reserve the right, due to situations beyond our control, to substitute any hotel or boat with another of comparable quality – this would be advised as soon as possible.
All quoted airfares & taxes are subject to change at any time prior to, or at the time of, ticketing.
Australian & New Zealand passport holders require a visa for India for a stay of up to 30 days. A visa must be obtained online prior to arrival. If you do not travel on an Australian or New Zealand passport please be sure to let us know.

Hosted by...

Sarah Hoyland

Sarah is the Founder of our Journeys for Women collection and co-Director of The Classic Safari Company. Over the years she's travelled to all seven continents, visited over 63 countries, forged global lifelong friendships and honed her haggling skills to perfection! In her own words 'I am happiest when I am lost in a souk, on safari in Africa, travelling with my daughters or when I have the privilege of viewing wild and wonderful places afresh through the eyes of the ladies I host on our women-only soirees!'.

Let's talk more

My daughter and I had a fabulous trip to Egypt. Loved every minute and might have to do it again in 2023!

Amanda

A big thank you & a tick for the bucket list to Sarah for bringing together 17 women and taking us on a trip of a lifetime - friends for life!

Mary

Egypt delivered on every level. So did The Classic Safari Company's Journeys for Women. Love my fellow travellers and especially Sarah!

Wendy

Loved my journey - what a fab adventure with great women!

Sharon

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