Embrace the vibrant culture of India by painting the streets with splashes of colour during the iconic Holi Festival of Colours, symbolising the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring . The festivities are a delight for all senses, with the air filled with laughter, music, and the tantalising aromas of traditional Holi delicacies. During this time, India is a canvas of joy, unity, and love, and combining the celebrations with a tour of the famous Golden Triangle sights of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur will make this an unparalleled cultural experience.
During Holi, participants throw colourful powders at each other, drench each other with water guns, and dance and sing on the streets, transforming the country into a lively tableau of hues. In addition to this, mouth-watering traditional sweets and dishes are savoured, adding a gastronomic delight to the occasion. Holi is not just a festival; it embodies the spirit of unity, love, and festivity, making it a truly unique and immersive cultural experience.
As well as the magic of Holi, discover the mesmerising beauty of India with the iconic Golden Triangle Tour. This popular tourist circuit provides an excellent snapshot of the country’s diverse culture, rich history, and architectural grandeur. The tour comprises three of India’s most charming cities – Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Delhi, the capital city, offers a mix of historical and modern attractions, from the regal Red Fort to the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk. Agra is home to the immortal Taj Mahal, a symbol of love and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Jaipur, known as the ‘Pink City’, enchants with its stunning palaces and forts that echo the stories of its royal past. The Golden Triangle Tour is an unforgettable journey through the vibrant and diverse landscape of India, promising a treasure trove of experiences.
Itinerary
20th March 2024, Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
Upon arrival into Delhi, the capital of India, you’ll be welcomed by our representative at the airport with flower garlands and transferred to your hotel, where a welcome drink will greet you.
21st March 2024, Day 2: Discover Old Delhi
Spend your first full day in India discovering the history and heritage of Old Delhi with a visit to Jama Masjid the largest Mosque in India, a Rickshaw ride through the busy streets of Chandni Chowk and a pass by the splendid Red Fort for a visit to 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. Visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a Sikh temple that is still in active worship, before visiting Qutab Minar, fine examples of Indo-Islamic architecture.
22nd March 2024, Day 3: Journey to Agra
After breakfast, transfer by road to Agra and check-in to your next hotel. This afternoon, visit the splendid Agra Fort, build of red sandstone, encapsulating magnificent palaces, halls of public and private audience, and beautiful gardens. Finally, visit Itmad-ud-daulah and Mother Teresa’s orphanage before returning to your Agra hotel for the night.
23rd March 2024, Day 4: Taj Mahal visit & transfer to Jaipur
At dawn, visit the iconic Taj Mahal to witness the surreal views, sparkling under the brilliant rays of the Indian sky. The palace is an eternal symbol of love, built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal – appreciate the intricate designs and symmetries that rhyme like a poem written in marble.
Afterwards, head back to the hotel for breakfast before your transfer to Jaipur, with a visit to Fatehpur Sikri, the crowning glory of Emperor Akbar’s architectural legacy, en-route. Built in red sandstone, its many palaces, halls and structures exemplify the creativity of the ancient Mughal emperors.
Upon arrival into Jaipur, check-in to your next hotel, before a sunset visit to the Birla Temple to witness the Aarti ceremony. Jaipur – 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, and is one of the best planned cities in India, built in nine rectangular sectors that symbolise the nine divisions of the universe, according to Indian cosmology.
24th March 2024, Day 5: Explore Jaipur
After breakfast at your hotel, venture out to visit Amber Fort, accessed on the back of elephants, to visit the palace, the Jagmandir, Jai Mahal and the Kali Temple, with its glorious gardens. The descent will be in 4×4 Jeeps.
Later on, visit the City Palace complex, which reflects the architectural exuberance of Jaipur. The constant complex of a variety of museums and a part of the palace remains the royal residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur. Also, visit Jantar Mantar, the ancient astronomical observatory and enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through the bazaars of the old city.
25th March, Day 6: Celebrate Holi!
Today, enjoy the wonderful celebration of Holi in Jaipur! The celebration includes a welcome reception at the palace with the chung, a traditional music instrument that is played especially during the festival, and a welcome non-alcoholic drink. You’ll then be escorted to an exclusive spot to witness the celebration with other visitors, and a snack and drink service. Later on, you’ll be able to play and enjoy Holi with ‘Gulal’ colour made from an organic cornflower base, and enjoy a dance show (there will also be opportunities to join in!).
26th March, Day 7: Transfer back to Delhi & fly home
Sadly, you’ve reached the last day of your Indian adventure. After breakfast at your hotel, transfer back to Delhi by road to catch your international flight home.
If you want to witness the incredible Holi Festival of Colours, contact info@savilerowtravel.co.uk, call +44 1491 575 987 or pop into our Henley-on-Thames office in Gardiner Place (next to Gails). Remember, we can alter this sample itinerary to perfectly fit your dates, requirements and desires.