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North India Holi Festival with Ananda in the Himalayas

Tour Info

Duration

12 days

Tour Type

Heritage & Culture

Best time to travel

9 – 20 March 2025

Destinations

Delhi, Agra, Jaipur & Rishikesh
Overview

Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of North India with Timeless Heritage Tours on this 12-day adventure, which takes you through the iconic cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, and culminates in the serene surroundings of Ananda in the Himalayas, Rishikesh.

Begin your journey in Delhi, where you’ll explore historical landmarks and bustling markets, delving into the city’s diverse cultural heritage. Visit the grand India Gate, the imposing Red Fort, and the spiritual Jama Masjid, all while experiencing the lively atmosphere of the capital city.

Travel to Agra, home to the world-renowned Taj Mahal, a symbol of love and architectural splendor. Explore the Agra Fort and other significant sites, gaining insight into the rich history and heritage of this enchanting city.

In Jaipur, the Pink City, you’ll witness the grandeur of its palaces and forts. Celebrate the Holi festival with the locals, participating in traditional rituals, vibrant colors, and joyous festivities. This celebration offers a unique opportunity to connect with the cultural essence of the region.

Finally, unwind at Ananda in the Himalayas, a luxury wellness retreat nestled in the serene surroundings of Rishikesh. Here, you’ll rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul with a range of holistic therapies, yoga sessions, and meditation practices, all while enjoying the tranquil ambiance of the Himalayan foothills.

This 12-day tour promises a perfect blend of cultural exploration, festive celebration, and holistic wellness, offering an enriching and memorable experience of North India with the expertise of Timeless Heritage Tours.

 

Highlight: 

Delhi: Old Delhi Bazaar Walk

Explore the bustling streets of Old Delhi with a guided bazaar walk. Navigate through narrow lanes filled with vibrant shops, aromatic spices, and colorful textiles. Experience the lively atmosphere as you interact with local vendors and discover hidden gems in one of the oldest markets in the city. 

Agra: Visit the Taj Mahal at Sunrise

Witness the mesmerizing beauty of the Taj Mahal at sunrise. Marvel at the changing hues of the white marble as the first light of day illuminates this iconic monument. Learn about the history and significance of the Taj Mahal from your knowledgeable guide and capture stunning photographs of this architectural wonder. 

Jaipur: Walking Tour of Old Jaipur

Go on a walking tour of Old Jaipur, also known as the Pink City. Explore the historic streets lined with beautiful havelis, bustling bazaars, and traditional artisans’ workshops. Visit landmarks like the Hawa Mahal and City Palace, and gain insights into Jaipur’s rich cultural heritage. 

Jaipur: Holi Festivities with a Local Family

Celebrate the vibrant Holi festival with a local family in Jaipur. Participate in traditional rituals, play with colors, and enjoy festive music and dance. This unique experience offers a deep cultural connection and an opportunity to create joyful memories during the festival of colors. 

Rishikesh: Rejuvenation at Ananda in the Himalayas

Unwind and rejuvenate at the luxurious Ananda in the Himalayas retreat in Rishikesh. Experience holistic wellness therapies, yoga sessions, and meditation practices in a serene setting. Enjoy the tranquility of the Himalayan foothills and find balance for your mind, body, and soul. 

These highlight experiences, curated by Timeless Heritage Tours, ensure an enriching and memorable journey through North India’s cultural and festive wonders.

 

Itinerary

Day 01: 9 March 2025, Sunday: Arrival in Delhi

Upon your arrival at the international airport in Delhi, Timeless Heritage Tours representatives will greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. Take some time to relax and unwind after your journey. 

Evening Visit to Lakshmi Narayan Temple – Birla Temple In the evening, visit the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir, commonly known as the Birla Temple. Situated to the west of Connaught Place, this temple, built in 1938, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. 

Overnight in Delhi 

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: The Oberoi Delhi

Day 02: 10 March 2025, Monday: Exploring Delhi

After breakfast, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Delhi with Timeless Heritage Tours.

Old Delhi Begin your tour with a visit to Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. Drive past the Red Fort and continue to Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s largest mosques. Enjoy a rickshaw ride through the bustling bazaars of Old Delhi. 

New Delhi Explore the contrasts between New Delhi and Old Delhi. Visit the Qutub Minar, the tallest stone tower in India. Drive past the imposing India Gate, the Parliament building, and the President’s residence (Rashtrapati Bhawan). If time permits, visit the Lotus Temple, an ideal place for meditation and obtaining peace and tranquility. 

Iskcon Temple Visit the Iskcon Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in India, dedicated to Lord Krishna. 

Evening at Akshardham Temple In the evening, visit the recently built Akshardham Temple on the banks of the River Yamuna. 

Overnight in Delhi 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: The Oberoi Delhi

Day 03: 11 March 2025, Tuesday: Delhi to Agra

After breakfast, drive to Agra and check into your hotel. 

Exploring Agra In Agra, visit the iconic Taj Mahal, a white marble mausoleum built by Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Explore the Agra Fort, built by Emperor Akbar, and visit the Baby Taj (Itimad-ud-Daulah), known for its intricate interiors. 

Overnight in Agra 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: The Oberoi Amarvilas

Day 04: 12 March 2025, Wednesday: Agra to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri

After breakfast, drive to Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted red sandstone city built by Emperor Akbar. Explore its pristine ruins and visit the Buland Darwaza, the largest gateway in the world.

Arriving in Jaipur Continue your journey to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Check into your hotel and visit the Birla Temple to experience the Aarti Ceremony, a Hindu ritual involving the lighting of oil lamps. 

Overnight in Jaipur 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: The Oberoi Rajvilas

Day 05: 13 March 2025, Thursday: Jaipur Sightseeing Tour

After breakfast, visit Amber Fort, where you can enjoy an elephant ride to ascend to the fort.

Amber Fort Palace Explore the stunning Amber Fort Palace, a blend of Mughal and Hindu architectural styles. 

City Palace Visit the City Palace, a delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture. 

Jantar Mantar Explore Jantar Mantar, the largest and best-preserved observatory built by Jai Singh II. 

Hawa Mahal Drive past the Hawa Mahal, also known as the “Palace of Winds,” with its ornate façade of sandstone plastered pink. 

Spend the evening shopping or exploring at your leisure. 

Overnight in Jaipur. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: The Oberoi Rajvilas

Day 06: 14 March 2025, Friday: Jaipur – Holi Celebrations

As part of the Timeless Heritage Tours experience, you will have the unique opportunity to celebrate Holi with a local family in Jaipur. This immersive experience allows you to participate in the traditional rituals, play with colors in a warm and welcoming environment, and enjoy a festive meal with your hosts. The hospitality and warmth of the local family will make this celebration even more special and memorable. 

Holi is a festival that transcends barriers and brings people together in a spirit of joy, unity, and celebration. Participating in the Holi festivities with Timeless Heritage Tours ensures an authentic and enriching experience, allowing you to truly connect with the cultural essence of India. 

Enjoy the vibrant colors, the infectious energy, and the joyous spirit of Holi as you create cherished memories during this festival of colors. 

Overnight in Jaipur

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: The Oberoi Rajvilas

Day 07: 15 March 2025, Saturday: Jaipur to Delhi

After breakfast, bid farewell to Jaipur and drive back to Delhi with Timeless Heritage Tours. Check into your hotel in Delhi and spend the evening at leisure. 

Overnight in Delhi 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: The Oberoi Delhi

Day 08: 16 March 2025, Sunday: To Rishikesh - Ananda in the Himalayas

Early in the morning, drive to Rishikesh after breakfast, with an en-route visit to Haridwar.

Haridwar Haridwar, the gateway to the four pilgrimages in the Uttarakhand region, is located at the foothills of the Shivaliks. It is on the banks of the River Ganga, where the river leaves the mountains and enters the plains. 

Proceed to Rishikesh Continue your journey to Rishikesh, an ideal destination for those interested in meditation, yoga, and Hinduism. Rishikesh is also known as the “Yoga Capital of the World” and a starting point for trekking expeditions in the Himalayas. 

Ananda in the Himalayas Arrive at Ananda in the Himalayas, a luxurious spa resort offering a harmonious integration of vegetation, fresh mountain air, and Himalayan spring water. The resort focuses on traditional Indian sciences of Yoga and Ayurveda, providing personalized therapies to meet individual health goals such as de-stress, detoxification, deep relaxation, anti-aging, and weight loss. The resort’s 20 treatment rooms are specialized for Ayurveda, Oriental, and European holistic health systems. 

Relax and Unwind Check-in and relax for the rest of the day. 

Overnight in Rishikesh 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ananda in the Himalayas

Day 09: 17 March 2025, Monday: Ananda in the Himalayas

Spend the day at leisure. In the evening, enjoy a tour of Rishikesh ashrams and attend the evening prayer ceremony at the River Ganges. 

Overnight in Rishikesh 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ananda in the Himalayas

Day 10: 18 March 2025, Tuesday: Ananda in the Himalayas

Enjoy another day at leisure, taking advantage of the spa and wellness treatments available at the resort. 

Overnight in Rishikesh 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ananda in the Himalayas

Day 11: 19 March 2025, Wednesday: Drive back to Delhi

After breakfast, spend the day at leisure. In the afternoon, drive back to Delhi with Timeless Heritage Tours. Check into a hotel near the airport and spend the evening at leisure. 

Overnight in Delhi 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: JW Marriott Aerocity

Day 12: 20 March 2025, Thursday: Departure

Today, Timeless Heritage Tours will transfer you to the airport for your flight back home, concluding your enriching 12-day journey through North India. 

Meals: Breakfast

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