Diwali Special
Northern India Tour 2025

Day 1

​

We'll meet you at the airport and take you to the hotel to relax for a while. In the afternoon, we'll meet for a welcome lunch and then we’ll head out to Old Delhi for an exhilarating cycle rickshaw ride. We'll also take a stroll through Khari Baoli, Asia's largest spice market. The evening is free to relax and have an early night with the option to meet for a drink at the local pub close to our hotel.

​

Hotel: Florence Inn

​

Day 2

​

After breakfast, we set off for Agra, the proud home of the iconic Taj Mahal. Once we arrive, relax at the hotel or take a refreshing swim in the pool. As the sun begins to set, enjoy an authentic tuk-tuk ride to a rooftop restaurant, where you'll experience your first breathtaking view of the Taj Mahal – a moment to treasure on your India tour.

​

Hotel: Hotel Amar

​​

Day 3

​​

Rise early today – we’re off to the Taj Mahal to witness its breathtaking beauty at sunrise, long before the crowds arrive. After soaking in the magnificence of this iconic masterpiece, we’ll return to the hotel for a well-earned breakfast. Enjoy some time to unwind before we head out for lunch at a heartwarming NGO-run café. Later, our guide will lead us on a fascinating exploration of Agra Fort.

​

Hotel: Hotel Amar

​

Day 4

​

Today, we embark on our first Indian railway adventure! With an early start and a long journey ahead, it’s the perfect opportunity to connect with your fellow travellers and share stories. When we arrive in Rishikesh, a spiritual gem on any India tour, the evening is yours to relax and embrace the peaceful surroundings.

​

Hotel: Laxmana by the Ganges

​​

Day 5

​​​

Rishikesh, the world capital of Yoga, offers the perfect start to the day with an optional morning yoga class. After breakfast, we’ll take part in a sacred Hindu ritual led by a Priest by the holy River Ganga. The afternoon is yours to explore – shop for unique treasures or visit the iconic Beatles Ashram. After the sun has set, we’ll gather by the river to witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti, a timeless spiritual ceremony and an unforgettable highlight of your India tour.

​​​

Hotel: Laxmana by the Ganges

​​

​Day 6

​​

Today, we rise before dawn to journey into the mountains for a breathtaking sunrise at a sacred Goddess Temple. As temple bells ring, the sun slowly emerges over the majestic mountain skyline. Enjoy this serene moment with a warm cup of tea before we head back to Rishikesh for breakfast. The rest of the day is free for optional activities, perfect for those looking to make the most of their India tour – whether rafting on the Ganga, taking a cooking class, or hiking to a nearby waterfall, the choice is yours.

​

Hotel: Laxmana by the Ganges

 

​​Day 7

​​

After breakfast, we’ll drive out of Rishikesh, following the River Ganges to a tranquil resort nestled along a Ganga tributary, where we’ll unwind for the next two days. Take a refreshing dip in the pool, relax on the lush lawns, or lose yourself in a good book. It’s time to embrace the true holiday vibe and unwind. In the evening, join us for a lively games night hosted by Paul – the perfect way to end a day of relaxation on your India tour.​​

​​

Hotel: Samsara Resort

​​

Day 8

​​

Today is all about relaxing and slowing down. After a leisurely morning, we’ll make our way to the Neelkanth Temple, nestled high in the mountains of Rishikesh. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and a deep spiritual atmosphere, making it a must-see on your India tour. It’s the perfect place to reflect and appreciate the tranquillity of the region.

​

Hotel: Samsara Resort​

​

Day 9

​

Enjoy one final leisurely morning at the resort, soaking in the peaceful surroundings before another long travel day. We’ll leave around midday and make our way to Amritsar, arriving by 10 pm. Once we reach the Holy City, we’ll check into our homestay for a restful night, marking the end of a long but fulfilling day on your guided tour in India.​​

​​

Hotel: HK Clarkes Inn

​​

Day 10

​​​

After breakfast, we’ll set off to explore the famous sights of Amritsar. Our day will include a visit to the Golden Temple, where you can soak in its spiritual serenity, followed by a stop at Jallianwala Bagh, a historic site of great significance. We’ll also explore the Partition Museum, where the powerful stories of India’s past come to life, offering a deep insight into the country’s history during your India tour.

​​

Hotel: HK Clarkes Inn

​

Day 11

​​

After breakfast, we’ll visit a small Punjabi village to experience the true essence of Punjabi culture. You’ll assist with daily chores such as milking cows, riding a tractor, and cooking on a traditional open fire. We’ll also try on turbans and take part in Bhangra dancing, embracing the vibrant local traditions. In the evening, we’ll make our way to the Wagah Border for the dramatic closing ceremony, an unforgettable highlight of your time in Amritsar.

​

Hotel: HK Clarkes Inn

​​

Day 12

 

It’s time for our final Indian railway adventure as we journey back to Delhi, gearing up for the Diwali celebrations. The train ride will take most of the day, but we’ll arrive in the capital by early evening. Once we’re back, the rest of the day is yours to unwind and prepare for the exciting festivities ahead.

​

​Hotel: Florence Inn

​

Day 13​​​

​

Today is Diwali! The festivities typically begin in the afternoon and continue into the evening, leaving most of the day free for you to relax or take a tuk-tuk ride to explore Delhi at your own pace. In the evening, we’ll join a local Delhi family to experience a traditional Diwali celebration in their home, filled with warmth, lights, and festive spirit.

​​

​Hotel: Florence Inn​​​

​​

Day 14

​

Sadly, the end of our tour has arrived, and it’s time to say goodbye. We’ll take you to the airport for your flight home, marking the conclusion of an unforgettable journey through India. Safe travels, and we hope to see you again on another adventure.

​

Included:

​

Airport pick up and drop off

Accommodation in 3* hotels

Three Indian Railway experiences

Transportation in all destinations

Entrance fees

Diwali celebrations

Tour guides

Breakfast everyday

Most lunches and some dinners

​​

Not included:

​

Flights

Visas

Travel Insurance

Optional activities such as hiking and rafting in Rishikesh

Drinks

Some lunches and dinners

Tips

Any Covid incurred expenses

​​

A non-refundable deposit is required to book a place on the tour and the final balance is due 2 months before the tour starts.