Diwali in India

After landing at Indira Gandhi International Airport and checking into your hotel, spend the rest of your afternoon getting a taste of the bustling capital territory of Delhi, India.

Head to Hauz Kauz Village, a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood known for it’s galleries, boutiques, and ultra-hip restaurants. Enjoy your evening strolling through the Village and tasting your first of a variety of Indian sweets.

Today we will explore the attractions and contrasts of Old and New Delhi. Marvel at the tall minaret towers and gorgeous domes of Jama Masjid, one of the oldest and largest mosques in India. Visit Humayun’s tomb, a spectacular mausoleum and UNESCO World Heritage site built in the memory of Emperor Humayun, the second Mughal ruler to ascend the throne. Catch a break from the bustle of the city in the peaceful surroundings of Raj Ghat, the site of Mahatma Gandhi’s cremation.

In New Delhi, stroll through the tree lined streets of Rajpath, past the city’s government buildings to the memorial arch known as India Gate. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture the massive arch that was constructed to pay tribute to the 90,000 Indian army soldiers who died in WWI.

Depart Delhi early in the morning for Agra, the historic city in northern India home to the iconic Taj Mahal. Take your time wandering the corridors of what many consider to be the most beautiful building on the planet. Soak in the wonder as you stroll the the mosque’s gorgeous surrounding gardens. You’ll soon understand why the Taj Mahal has been deemed one of the Seven Wonders of the World!

Rise early for a morning tour of one of the finest Mughal forts in India, Agra Fort. Walk from courtyard to courtyard in the palatial red-sandstone and marble fortress, marveling at it’s sheer size and scale.

We’ll depart Agra for your next destination, Karauli. Home to some of the most significant Krisha temples in the world, Karauli will charm you with it’s beauty and rich history.

Spend your afternoon touring the City Palace, a magnificent 14th-century palace decorated with intricate stone carvings and lattice work. Make your way through the surrounding city’s winding streets, ducking into cafes and shops for locally-made goods and handicrafts. When evening falls, witness the elaborate rituals of the palace’s aarti ceremony for a truly unforgettable experience.

Spend your morning exploring the massively popular Hindu temple of Kaila Devi. Located on the banks of the Kalisil River, this temple will captivate you with it’s white marble walls and colorful floors.

From here, we’ll travel to the vibrant “Pink City” of Jaipur, one of the most exciting places to celebrate Diwali. Explore the historic center of Jaipur for views of the stunning Hawa Mahal, or Palace of the Winds. End your day watching the city’s spectacular Diwali fireworks display.

Start your day with a tour of the beautifully serene Birla temple, and it’s three breathtaking marble domes. From here you’ll explore the nearby shops and surrounding gardens that are lined with thousands of twinkling lights in celebration of Diwali.

Later, make your way to the stunning 16th century Amber Fort, for a tour of the stately interior and manicured grounds. When evening falls, the celebration continues in Jaipur with another night of Diwali festivities

After one last breakfast and stroll through the busy streets of Jaipur, spend the rest of your day traveling back to Delhi to catch your return flight home.