- 18-26 March 2027
- 10 Nights / 11 Days
- Weather 24 - 31 C
- Fitness - Med - walk up to 5km a day
The Colours of India 2027 - Holi Festival Tour
*This tour starts in Mumbai and ends in Delhi. Option to add Varanasi *
Immerse yourself in a tapestry of colour, culture and timeless charm on this extraordinary Indian journey. Begin in Mumbai, the glittering City of Dreams, where Bollywood glamour mingles with bustling bazaars and sunset views along the Arabian Sea. Then, revel in the magic of Holi in Jodhpur—the enchanting Blue City—where ancient forts and vibrant streets burst into a joyous riot of colour. Escape to the tranquil countryside for an intimate Bishnoi homestay, offering a rare glimpse into rural traditions and heartfelt hospitality. Finally, let Jaisalmer—the Golden City—cast its spell as you wander through honey-hued palaces and sweeping desert dunes beneath starlit skies. For those seeking a spiritual crescendo, extend your adventure with three nights in Varanasi, where the sacred Ganges whispers stories of eternity.
Oh the places we'll go ......
Mumbai is a vibrant, fast-paced city where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly. From the iconic Gateway of India to the colourful bazaars and the historic heritage of Colaba and Fort, the city is full of life and energy. Wander along Marine Drive at sunset, explore Bollywood culture, or savour world-famous street food like pav bhaji and vada pav. As India’s cultural and financial capital, Mumbai offers travellers a dynamic mix of art, architecture, cuisine, and coastal charm. It’s a destination that pulses with creativity, ambition, and unforgettable experiences.
Mighty Mehrangarh, the muscular fort that towers over the Blue City of Jodhpur, is a magnificent spectacle and an architectural masterpiece. Around Mehrangarh’s base, the old city, a jumble of Brahmin-blue cubes, stretches out to the 6-mile-long (10km), 16th-century city wall. The Blue City really is blue! Inside is a tangle of winding, glittering, medieval streets, which never seem to lead where you expect them to, scented by incense, roses and sewers, with shops and bazaars selling everything from trumpets and temple decorations to snuff and saris. Jodhpur is famous for its vintage furniture.
Nestled in the heart of Rajasthan’s countryside, Bishnoi Village offers a serene escape into the rhythms of rural life. Known for its deep-rooted commitment to nature and sustainability, the Bishnoi community lives by principles of harmony that date back centuries. Here, you’ll experience authentic hospitality, traditional mud homes, and the gentle pace of village life, far removed from the bustle of the cities. Discover age-old crafts as you watch skilled artisans shape pottery by hand and weave intricate carpets—a testament to the artistry and heritage of this remarkable community. A stay in Bishnoi is not just a visit—it’s a glimpse into a way of life that treasures simplicity and cultural tradition.
The fort of Jaisalmer is a breathtaking sight: a massive sandcastle rising from the sandy plains like a mirage from a bygone era. No place better evokes exotic camel-train trade routes and desert mystery. Ninety-nine bastions encircle the fort’s still-inhabited twisting lanes. Inside are shops swaddled in bright embroideries, a royal palace and numerous businesses looking for your tourist rupee. It’s hard not to be enchanted by this desert citadel.
Varanasi is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities and the spiritual heart of India. Located along the sacred River Ganges, it offers profound cultural experiences, from sunrise boat rides to evening Ganga Aarti rituals. The city’s maze-like lanes, ancient temples, and ghats reflect centuries of devotion, tradition, and daily life. Travellers come to Varanasi for its soul-stirring energy, rich rituals, and deep sense of spirituality. It’s a place that stays with you long after you leave.
Trip Highlights
- Visit sites of significance in Mumbai including Dhobi Ghat, Dharavi & India Gate
- Partake in High Tea at the Taj Hotel
- Take a stroll around Colaba Markets and visit Leopolds Cafe for the book Shantaram
- Visit the magnificent Menargh Fort and Museum
- Take a ricksahw ride through the Blue city and early morning walk to a sunrise lookout
- Enjoy Holi Festival
- Explore Blue City in Jodhpur
- Cook up some lunch with the Spice Girls
- Shop for some Vintage Indian Furniture
- Pass through many desert villages of the Thar Desert
- explore Jaisalmer Fort, the Jain Temple and Patwa Haveli
- Shop for silver and textiles in Jaisalmer
Book your Colours of India Tour
- Twinshare – $3150 AUD
- Single Room – $3845 AUD
*FLIGHTS NOT INCLUDED
This tour requires a $500 deposit, followed by two installment payments.
The first installment is due 6 months before the start of the trip.
The second installment is due 75 days prior to departure.
Enjoy guided travel with our Escorted Tours, fully led by a certified, English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the journey, sharing their extensive knowledge and passion for the destination.
For groups of eight or more, a Vibrant Women Travel Host will join the tour to provide additional support and ensure a seamless travel experience.
Inclusions
- 9 nights accommodation
- Airport transfers on the 19th and 28th of March 2027
- All transport by private vehicles (pickup and drop off at Delhi, Udaipur airports).
- Entrance fees to sights
- All breakfasts and some lunches and dinners as per the itinerary
- Services of an English speaking Indian guide throughout the tour, plus local guides at each site, (we like you to have the best local experience and knowledge) plus a Vibrant Women Host will also be present
What is not included
- International Airfare (Airfares to and from India).
- Indian Visas
- Travel Insurance (compulsory) is not included
- Extra night's accommodation in Mumbai or Delhi
- Some lunches and dinners are not included. Allow $15 - $20 per meal (does not included drinks) India food is heavy often 2 meals a day is enough
- Tipping we suggest $20 a day = $160 AUD this covers porters, guides, drivers, etc but not restaurant tips at your discretion. We suggest you pay tips prior to arriving in India ask us and we can add to your invoice. Or they will be collected on day 1 in Rupiah approx. 8665Rp
Requirements:
This sightseeing tour has several walking tours and many stairs, you require a moderate level of fitness to attend. We can walk around 5km a day so you really need to be prepared. Please note you must wear practical and comfortable walking shoes or sandals for your own safety, road and paths are very uneven.
Travel Itinerary
This day is set for arrivals only.
On arrival our driver will be waiting at the airport for you.
If you are arriving before 2pm or please consider what you will do with this time. Check in time for the hotel is 2pm.
**Please note there are no activities planned for this day.
Overnight Mumbai
Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay), is famous for its chaotic streets. For bargains and people-watching, outdoor bazaars top the list of attractions. Popular waterfront destinations are Marine Drive, where visitors go to watch the sun set over the Arabian Sea, and the carnival-like Juhu Beach.
9am- depart for Dharavi the largest slum in Asia and see the way people have turned their difficulties into enterprises. We will then lunch at “The Wine Rack” restaurant owned by Australian Masterchef contestant Sarah Todd. This afternoon sees us exploring the contrast between this mornings challenges and this afternoons consumerism at a Mega glitzy mall!
After lunch we head to the Dhobi Ghat the largest outdoor laundry in Mumbai. Then on our way back to our accommodation we hit the hanging gardens, terraced gardens perched at the top of Malabar Hill, on its western side, just opposite the Kamala Nehru Park. They provide sunset views over the Arabian Sea and feature numerous hedges carved into the shapes of animals. Lets finish our day with a stroll along Marine Parade to watch the sunset.
The world is full of amazing contrasts and there is nowhere that highlights this more than India.
Overnight Mumbai
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, you will start your tour in Colaba.
Colaba is an area of contrasts, the energy and liveliness here is undeniable. There’s plenty to discover in this metropolis, be it the rich colonial history, glamorous Bollywood, or the daily life of the incredibly diverse millions who call Mumbai home. We start today with a visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Museum, a heritage structure in its own right. The museum showcases several collections of ancient artworks, sculptures and artifacts.
Heading for lunch at Leopold’s a Colaba institution and cafe from the book “Shantaram” they have something for everyone. We then make our way though the very famous Gateway of India to catch a 1 hour boat ride to Elephanta Caves. This has hiking up a lot of stairs to see this UNESCO wonder (don’t worry onthe way down you get to shop).
On arriving back to Colaba we head to the famous Taj Hotel for an early dinner/High Tea *approx $50pp. then on the way back to our accommodation we walk off high tea at the local markets, famous for leather goods, bags, shoes, clothes and silver jewellery.
Overnight Mumbai – Grand Hotel Mumbai
Meals: Breakfast
Fly from Mumbai to Jodhpur.
First stop mighty Mehrangarh Fort, the muscular fort that towers over the Blue City of Jodhpur, is a magnificent spectacle and an architectural masterpiece. Around Mehrangarh’s base, the old city, a jumble of Brahmin-blue cubes, stretches out to the 10km-long, 16th-century city wall.
The Blue City really is blue! Inside is a tangle of winding, glittering, medieval streets, which never seem to lead where you expect them to, scented by incense, roses and sewers, with shops and bazaars selling everything from trumpets and temple decorations to snuff and saris.
After the tour of the Fort we head to the old part of the city and our lovely old Haveli with its spectacular rooftop view. The afternoon you can free time to explore the local bell-tower and Sadar Bazaar, one of the oldest markets in India, for handicrafts and antiques. The diversity of what’s on offer is impressive.
Dine in our rooftop restaurant, get ready and extincted for tomorrow festivities.
Overnight Jodhpur – Hotel Haveli Inn Pal
Meals: Breakfast
Today, get ready for playing Holi with our fellow travellers, local family and people in our immediate vicinity. Don your white gear and take a before photo before heading out at 10am to take some of the most colourful pictures ever (please protect expensive cameras). How you participate is up to you, just enjoy the fun and festivities this may also be an opportunity to usher in a new you.
Late afternoon head to the Spice Girls home for cooking class and dinner.
Overnight Jodhpur Havali Inn Pal or similar
Meals – Breakfast
Bishnoi Village Homestay
Just a 1 hour drive from Jodhpur we visit several villages famous for animal husbandry and crafts and then conclude with an overnight homestay experience. This is truly authentic India hospitality!
Shepherds Village – where you can visit to families of shepherds people. See how shepherds live in traditional way and only working with animals like goat, ship, Camel etc…….
Salawas (Weavers village) – Salawas, a land magic carpets; a land where fantasy and reality joins forces to keep alive one of its most famous traditions: the durry (Rugs). The durry (Rugs), weather weaved out of cotton or wool, spreads colorful tradition and heritage from its primitive form of weaving in the villages of Rajasthan. Make your home a cosier place by adding to it the magical of India, with the colorful folklore of the durry (Rugs).
Potter’s Village – Famous for pottery, tourists can see people making pottery, and try their hand too.
Overnight Chhotaram Prajapat HomeStay. Simple mud brick huts come with a fan and attached bathroom with hot and cold water.
Meals – Breakfast, lunch and Dinner
Visit the Ghost town of Kuldhara, a 300 year old ruin reported to be haunted on our way to Jaisalmer, The Golden City.
On arrival in Jaisalmer we enjoy lunch and some jewellery shopping and then we head to our lovely hotel, perhaps a swim in the pool
Overnight Jaisalmer
Meals: breakfast
After breakfast we visit Jaisalmer Fort, situated in the city of Jaisalmer. It is believed to be one of the very few “living forts” in the world, as nearly one fourth of the old city’s population still resides within the fort. For the better part of its 860-year history, the fort was the city of Jaisalmer.
After visiting the Fort we wander the laneways of the old city in search of bargains and lunch, plenty of opportunities for both abound.
Late afternoon relax by the pool, enjoy a henna tattoo to take home with you.
Meals – Breakfast
Overnight Jaisalmer
Today marks the final day of our Holi festival Tour. We’ll be travelling from Jaisalmer back to Delhi. For guests completing their journey here, you’ll be dropped off at Delhi Airport for your onward flights.
For those joining us for the optional Varanasi add-on, you’ll continue with a connecting flight from Delhi to Varanasi, where a whole new adventure awaits.
Thank you so much for following along we’ve loved sharing this journey with you
3 Nights Extension Tour to Varanasi
If you want to make the most of your adventure you can join our beach extension trip in Varanasi.
If you choose to extend your trip, add an extra $1100AUD for a Single and $900AUD for a Twinshare all-in for the 11Nights/12 Days Colours of India Tour.
Please see the itinerary for the Varanasi extension tour below.
After you arrive to Delhi airport fly to Varanasi, the most holy city in all of India.
On arrival at Varanasi airport, meet your local guide and driver to hotel for check in. Spend the rest of the afternoon sightseeing in the main Ghat area before retruning to our accommodation to freshen up before the evening Artie ceremony on the banks of the Ganges and some great local pizza.
Varanasi is the India of your imagination. One of the most colourful and fascinating places on earth, surprises abound around every corner.
This is one of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities, and one of the holiest in Hinduism. Pilgrims come to the ghats lining the Ganges to wash away sins in the sacred waters or to cremate their loved ones. It’s a particularly auspicious place to die, since expiring here offers moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth).
Most visitors agree Varanasi is magical – but not for the faint-hearted. Intimate rituals of life and death take place in public, and the sights, sounds and smells on the ghats – not to mention almost constant attention from touts – can be intense. Still, the so-called City of Light may turn out to be your favourite stop of all. Walking the ghats and alleyways or watching sunrise from a boat can be unforgettable. Varanasi is the ultimate culmination of India, of all experiences rolled into one.
Overnight Local Homestay
Before breakfast we embark on a sunrise boat ride along the Ganges to see if from a different view and in the early morning light when the city is waking up, we then walk along a newly created path uncovering hidden temples by the government, just stunning.
Today we have the option to visit an ayurvedic shop to stock up on oils, a silk factory, Varanasi is know for its silk, one of my favourite book stores, India’s books are very reasonably priced compared to Australia, and if you like music we can visit the musicians street and pop into a family home to hear some classical folk music *$20pp.
This afternoon for those who are interested we can arrange a local Hindu priest to perform a puja or prayer ritual on your behalf on the banks of Ganga Ji. This may be because you have a wish, yet unfulfilled, or a hope, dream or vision unrealised, or something you are grateful for, a loved one who has passed over.
Your ceremony can be arranged to meet your specific needs. This is a very special opportunity for those who are interested approx. *$50pp.
Overnight Varanasi – Local Homestay
Varanasi Extension Inclusions
- Pickup and drop off at Varanasi airport
- 3 nights accommodation with breakfast
- 2 days tour of Varanasi and 1 day at Sarnath
- Local guide in Varanasi for 2 days
What is not included
- Airfares to and from Delhi
- Indian visas
- Travel Insurance (compulsory)
- Lunch and Dinner
- Tipping and personal expenses
Did we mention SHOPPING!!!
During our Colours of India Tour we visit a few of Jodhpur’s incredible Vintage furniture showrooms. Imagine finding Ishka-style furniture at half the price, and even with a 15% import tax, you can have it shipped home and it’s still a steal!
Jodhpur furniture is famous for its intricate carvings, bold colors, and stunning teak wood craftsmanship. You won’t believe the level of detail and beauty in each piece, from the intricate inlay work to the Industrial-style distressed timber furniture. And let’s not forget about the famous Bone and mother of pearl inlay! Whether you have a traditional or modern home, these stunning pieces will make a statement like no other. Trust us, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that you won’t want to miss. So get ready to shop!
What our guests say about our Colours of India Tour
Vibrant Women with a heart ♥
Please know that $25 of your booking goes towards supporting our charity Samadhan Dwarka and the amazing work they do in supporting children with an intellectual disability in India, so THANK YOU!
FAQ's
Read more about our Booking Process and why we have the cancellation policy we do HERE
- Up to 180 Days Before Tour Start: A $500 non-refundable, non-transferable deposit will be retained.
- From 180 – 75 Days Before Tour Start: 25% of the tour cost, plus the non-refundable, non-transferable deposit, will be forfeited.
- From 75 – 45 Days Before Tour Start: 50% of the tour cost, plus the non-refundable, non-transferable deposit, will be forfeited.
- Less Than 45 Days Before Tour Start or No Shows: The entire amount 100% of the tour cost will be retained, as we would have already incurred costs for accommodation, transport, flights, and activities, which cannot be refunded to us.
- After Tour Commencement: No refunds will be issued.
This is why travel insurance is compulsory. We suggest taking out travel insurance within 2 weeks of booking your tour.
Circumstances that do not qualify for a refund
Failure to Read Terms and Conditions
– Refunds will not be issued if you have not read and understood our Terms and Conditions, Website General Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, or the specific Fine Print for your tour.
Change of Mind
– Refunds will not be issued if you change your mind after paying your deposit, regardless of the reason.
Cancellation Within 45 Days of Travel Date
– Refunds will not be issued if you cancel within 45 days of your travel date.
Unmet General Expectations
– Refunds will not be issued if the tour experience did not meet your general expectations, regardless of the reason.
Inability to Travel Due to Personal Reasons
– Refunds will not be issued if you are unable to travel due to a medical condition or any other personal reason. Cancellations on medical grounds should be covered by your travel insurer.
No-Show
– Refunds will not be issued if you fail to show up or the suppliers (airline) decide to cancel your booking.
Please Note: All dietary requirements must be disclosed at the time of booking. We cannot accommodate restrictions shared after booking or during the tour. Participants must be able to manage their own dietary needs throughout the experience.
If you are unable to consume ingredients such as gluten, tomatoes, onions, garlic, dairy, nuts, or others, it is essential to inform us upfront. In many countries, managing complex dietary needs can be challenging, and late disclosures may affect your well-being and place undue pressure on our guides and hosts.
Thank you for your understanding.
Our rates do not include any kind of travel insurance and each guest must make sure to arrange their own necessary insurance prior arrival. We will do everything possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. However, all travel involves some degree of risk we strongly recommend that you take out appropriate travel insurance for your adventure.
Your insurance protection should include cover for cancellation, medical, delays, personal injury and accident, death and loss of personal baggage and money and personal liability. Insurance cover offered by credit card companies or reciprocal medical cover agreements are often not comprehensive please check this before travelling. Or contact our preferred Travel Insurance provider CoverMore.
Please read our Terms and Conditions HERE. You will be asked to sign your agreeance to these terms and conditions upon booking.
A. We have both single and twinshare rooms available. The single room has the supplement included. If you choose twinshare and are not travelling with a friend we will do our best to find you a roommate however in the event no one else is seeking a twinshare roommate, then the single room rate will apply. We hope you understand.
*Please note that snorers, smokers or people who wear CPAP machines when sleeping must disclose this when booking as this could impact other peoples sleep and they need to be aware of this.
**Also please note we cannot guarantee compatibility of roommates, for example you may be of different ages or nationalities, have different habits, snore etc. however mostly when we do match people up they get on well and its only for a short period of time. Some people have even made lifelong friendships.
A. The food is Indian haha and I think most people know what this is like. Yes, its spicy but we can ask to tone it down. Keep in mind that when you ask, “Is this spicy?” and the waiter says, “No Maam” his taste buds are not like yours and it will be spicy. India is heaven for vegetarians, all that delicious dahl, spinach and paneer, mushrooms with tomatoes and cauliflower and fresh green peas, potatoes with cumin seeds, koftas and the list goes on, India is my favourite food destination.
A. Note above we do not suggest you come early or stay longer unless you have something specific in mind or another person with you. We would not recommend women travelling on their own venture out in large Indian cities unaccompanied. If you desire a longer stay in India we suggest contacting https://www.thedelhiway.com/.
A. Well, that depends on your shopping habits! You will need to allocate around $15/$20 per meal lunches and dinners and then add on extra for personal spending. Alcohol is always more expensive in countries where people don’t drink and is taxed highly. I tell people to budget around $500AUD a week. You can use ATM’s to get money, credit cards for larger purchases and bring a few hundred dollars either USD or AUD to exchange.
A. The most convenient and cheapest way to get your visa is online e-Visa – To complete online choose E-Visa Application. https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html
The online application can only be completed between 4 and 120 days prior to travel. Make sure you don’t apply too early so that your visa is expired by the time you want to depart, 30 days in advance is enough, previously it has taken 1 week to receive the E-Visa. This cost is between $10 and $50USD, prices change all the time sorry but just to give you a guideline.
You will receive a document on how to complete your VISA application after we receive your booking and deposit. Its a step by step process with images
To ensure a safe and healthy journey, it’s important to be up-to-date with your vaccinations. We recommend consulting with a healthcare professional or visiting a travel health clinic for personalised advice based on your travel itinerary. For comprehensive information on required and recommended vaccinations, please visit Travel Doctor. They provide expert guidance to help you stay protected while exploring the world.
Our tours are designed to provide a rich and immersive experience, which includes walking tours on some days. Participants will encounter uneven footpaths, stairs, and other elements that require good mobility. Therefore, we recommend that women joining our tours have a medium level of fitness. You should be able to walk up to 7km a day to fully enjoy all the activities and explore the beautiful destinations with ease.
