Investment
- Twinshare – $3450 AUD
- Single Room – $3950 AUD
- 2-11 March 2025
- 8 Nights / 9 Days
- Weather 24 - 31 C
- Fitness - Med - walk up to 5km a day
The Best Exotic Marigold India Adventure
As Evelyn Greenslade says,
“Initially you’re overwhelmed. But gradually you realize it’s like a wave. Resist, and you’ll be knocked over. Dive into it and you’ll swim out the other side.” – Evelyn Greenslade
If you wake up everyday feeling kind of ‘beige’, then maybe it’s time to let fate whisk you away.
Immerse yourself in the glorious colour and excitement of Mother India, as you paint your next life chapter…
On this exotic odyssey, we follow in the footsteps of Dame Judi Dench and Bill Nighy—the irresistible stars of the movie—through some of the most romantic locations in India.
This is an opportunity to plunge in—to rediscover the vibrancy of life that India offers and to reinvigorate your senses. And with our host Nitin and Danielle leading this inspirational journey in style and comfort, you’ll gently recover your sense of adventure among India’s timeless rhythms…
Start packing—see you at the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel in 2024!
For the Elderly and Beautiful
Oh the places we go ......
Delhi
Udaipur
Jaipur
Agra
Delhi
Steeped in history yet overflowing with modern life, colorful, cacophonous Delhi pulsates with the relentless rhythms of humanity like few other cities on Earth.
Visit our chosen charity – Samadhan Dwarka, an NGO for children with an intellectual disability living in Delhi whose families are living in poverty.
Taste – Masala Dosas – Dosa is a crepe made using fermented rice and lentil batter. It’s a crisp, aromatic, flavourful crepe with a potato filling. These crispy crepes are quite addictive and delicious.
Ride – take a crazy rickshaw ride around Chandni Chowk “Old Delhi”.
Udaipur
Udaipur has a romance of setting unmatched in Rajasthan and arguably in all India – snuggling beside tranquil Lake Pichola, with the purple ridges of the Aravalli Range stretching away in every direction.
Hear – The lively chanting at Jagdish temple if you can walk the 50 steps.
See – The ethnic folk dances of the tribes of the Rajasthan region at the Dharohar Cultural Show
Experience – A palm reading by local astrologer and see your future through the eyes of an Indian Mystique.
Jaipur
The city’s colorful streets ebb and flow with a heady brew of old and new. Buses dodge dawdling camels, cycle-rickshaws leisurely hold-up swarms of motorbikes, buzzing autorickshaws hawk for unhurried walkers. In the middle of this cacophony, the splendors of Jaipur’s majestic past are islands of relative calm evoking a different pace and another world.
See – The splendid Amber Fort, sitting majestically in its pride of place built of yellow and pink sandstone.
Enjoy – A local puppet performance.
Ride – The train from Udaipur to Jaipur and enjoy the scenery along the way.
Agra
The magical allure of the Taj Mahal draws tourists to Agra like moths to a wondrous flame. And despite the hype, it’s every bit as good as you’ve heard.
Experience – The crown in the Jewel of your tour, the one, the only “Taj Mahal”. Words cannot describe you will have to see for yourself.
View – The craftsman who create the beautiful marble inlay work famous in the Taj Mahal.
See – Agra Fort where the Moghul who built the Taj Mahal was imprisoned by his son under house arrest with only a view of the Taj from across the river from his room until he died.
Trip Highlights
- Visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a Sikh Temple that feeds over 10,000 people a day.
- Head off to The Lotus Temple - a beautiful Baha'i Faith Temple reminiscent of the Sydney Opera House
- Visit our local charity or children with Intellectual disabilities - Samadhan Dwarka
- Cruise around Lake Pichola
- Stay at "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel"
- Enjoy Henna Tattoos and Sari Dress-Ups
- Visit the magnificent Amber Fort and the City Palace of Jaipur
- Have morning tea on the lawn of the Viceroy Club from the Marigold Movie
- See local artisans at work in carpet, gemstone, block print and marble workshops
- Sunrise Visit to the Taj Mahal
Book your Marigold India Adventure
*FLIGHTS NOT INCLUDED
This tour has a $500 deposit and the remainder is due 75 prior to departure.
Inclusions
- 9 Nights accommodation
- Domestic Flight Delhi to Udaipur
- Airport transfers on 2nd and 11th of March 2025
- All transport by private vehicles (pickup and drop off at Delhi, Udaipur airports).
- All breakfasts and some lunches and dinners as per the itinerary (note most meals we provide to you in your package lunches or dinner as vegetarian)
- Entrance fees to sights - e.g. Taj Mahal, Lake Palace, Amber Fort
- 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 nights accommodation on the 17th of February can be arranged for $250 per room
- 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
Itinerary
2 March 2025
3 March 2025
4 March 2025
5 March 2025
6 March 2025
7 March 2025
8 March 2025
9 March 2025
10 March 2025
11 March 2025
2 March 2025
Day 1 – Arrive to Delhi
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.
*Airport transfers are included on the 2nd and 11th of March 2025 only.
Meals – no meals
Accommodation – Blooms boutique Hotel or similar
3 March 2025
Day 2 – Delhi Day Tour
Meet for breakfast in the hotels cafe at 8.00am.
8.30am Introduction Information Session.
9am Departure
Today we will visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a Sikh Temple that feeds over 10,000 people a day, followed by a visit to our local charity – Samadhan for differently abled children.
We then head off to The Lotus Temple – a beautiful Baha’i Faith Temple reminiscent of the Sydney Opera House.
Finishing the day with a crazy bicycle rickshaw ride though Chandni Chowk, the oldest part of Delhi, going past the amazing and iconic Red Fort. We will stop along the way for lunch en-route probably to the Lotus Temple. We like to stay flexible given the craziness of the traffic and eat when we are hungry, (and go somewhere where we know we can use the loos ;))
7pm – Opening night dinner at a local Punjab Restaurant.
Overnight Delhi
Meals – Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation – Blooms boutique Hotel or similar
4 March 2025
Day 3 – The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
After breakfast we make our way out of the old city and on the road to “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” in a small town called Khempur, where the film was shot. 1 hour drive from the airport
Check in and then enjoy a visit to the local village of Kemphur, spend the afternoon swimming in the pool and sampling some of local life, including *optional henna tattoos and sari dress ups before dinner and then the opportunity to watch the movie, (again I know how many times have you seen it!).
Overnight Kemphur
Meals – Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation – Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
5 March 2025
Day 4 – Transfer to Udaipur
After breakfast take a walk around the local village of Kemphur then upon arrival to Udaipur, transfer to your hotel in the Old City, overlooking Lake Pichola.
In the afternoon, explore the laneways of the Old City and perhaps have a palm reading or get a Kurta custom made by a local tailor.
Udaipur, also known as the City of Lakes, is one of India’s most picturesque cities. Palaces surround the city, the most famous being The Lake Palace, which covers an entire island and was featured in the James Bond film Octopussy. The city was founded in 1559 and was the capital of the Mewar kingdom. There’s no doubt you’ll enjoy this relaxing, seductive city.
Before check in have lunch and then spend the afternoon exploring.
Depart from the hotel approximately 5:30pm for Bagore-ki-Haveli, near Gangaur Ghat in the heart of the old city to see a one hour local dance performance. After the dance performance enjoy dinner at a roof top restaurant overlooking the stunning Lake Pichola, the City Palace and enjoy the sweeping views and many treasures housed inside.
Overnight Udaipur
Meals – Breakfast
Accommodation – Kankarwa Haveli Udaipur or similar
6 March 2025
Day 5 – Explore the beautiful city of Udaipur
This morning head to the rooftop for to take in the beautiful view and enjoy some quiet time before indulging in a leisurely breakfast.
Then we explore this beautiful city firstly with a visit to a local Hindu Temple (no shoes and bring scarf).
Head to the City Palace for a guided tour with its many splendorous rooms and glimpses into the era of this opulence. After this we take a leisurely stroll to board our boat for a cruise around Lake Pichola.
We conclude with lunch on Jagmandir Island.
Free afternoon for more exploring, shopping and collecting items made by the tailor and then meet up for dinner at a local restaurant on the lake.
Accommodation – Kankarwa Haveli Udaipur or similar
Meals – Breakfast
7 March 2025
Day 6 – Travel to Jaipur by Train
Early departure we catch the train to Jaipur approximately 7 hours. *Please pack light you need to be able to get your bag on and off the train and stowe it. *Breakfast and lunch included.
In the afternoon brave the crazy local Jaipur bazaar for some textiles, silver jewellery or copper pots, or sit in the courtyard of our Haveli, book a massage or just relax.
Meals – Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation – Hotel Alsisar or similar
8 March 2025
Day 7 – Jaipur – Amber Fort
Today we visit the magnificent Amer Fort. Located high on a hill, Amer fort was built in 1592 and its’ name is said to derive from the many jewels that are used for decoration inside. The views and splendor of the mirrored rooms will leave you speechless.
After visiting the fort, you’ll have an opportunity to visit a block printing and carpet factory, gemstone and jewellery store, and City Palace.
Relax in the evening and enjoy some traditional Rajasthani cuisine.
Meals – Breakfast
Accommodation – Alsisar Hotel or similar
9 March 2025
Day 8 – Jaipur to Agra
After breakfast leave for Agra. Its a long bus trip today (approx. 7 hours) however will break it up with a stop on the way for morning tea at the Viceroy Club so well known in both movies now the “The First and Second Best Marigold Hotel” (locally known as the Castle Kanota).
Meals – Breakfast and Morning Tea
Accommodation – Clarkes Shiraz Hotel or similar
10 March 2025
Day 9 – Taj Mahal
Sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal is India’s most-photographed monument, and today you’ll see why. Built between 1632 and 1653 in memory of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan’s third wife, the Taj Mahal is world-renowned.
After the Taj Mahal, return to the hotel for breakfast.
Visit the marble workshop, beautiful products created by the descendants of the craftsmen of the Taj Mahal.
We have chosen to stay close to the airport on the last night for the convenience of guests. If you are staying past check out time 12pm you can store your bags before going to the airport.
Meals – Breakfast
Accommodation – near to airport (TBA)
11 March 2025
Day 10 – Departure Day
Finish your last day with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before being taken to the airport, check out is 12pm, or if you are joining our Colours of India Tour then you have a free day to relax, get laundry done and repack.
*Please note no Hosts/Organisers will be available to assist you after 12pm however your airport transfer will be arranged in advance for you. If you are staying later than check out time, please consider what you will do with this time.
Meals – Breakfast
“Everything will be all right in the end and if it’s not all right, then it’s not yet the end!” – Sonny Kapoor
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.
Your Host - Danielle and Nitin
Danielle Harvey – Host
Danielle is your lovely caretaker during this journey. She loves photography, nature, walking, exploring, travel, music, India and her children. She is also pretty fond of coffee, chocolate and wine. She is an extra pair of hands to support you and Nitin on this holiday.
Nitin Jangra – Tour Manager
Nitin is in charge of the logistics of your tour. He has arranged everything so you can have a seamless journey. From accommodation, to transport to guides, he has everything under control. Cool, calm and collected he hails from Chandigarh in Northern India and was previously the manager of the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel!
What our guests say about our Marigold India Tour
5/5
The different foods and cultural experiences. The traffic chaos. . I would never have done these experiences by myself. 100% go for it!! It was so amazing.
For somewhere I never thought I would go, I definitely want to go again!
Marlies H.
Marigold 2024
5/5
Sweet heart, dont think about it ... Just Book It... the thinking has been done for you.
You will experience, see the best of India. What we did in 8 fabulous days would take a self tour organiser 3 weeks and a lot of getting lost and frustrated. The quality lives on long after the price is forgotten.
JanMaree B.
Marigold 2024
5/5
I meet beautiful people. The tour was a good mix of fun. It slowed at times to help catch my breath. It allowed me to experience India in a safe, comfortable group of like minded women. I loved older hotels, previously residences of the wealthier community.
. Life begins where our comfort zone ends, is such great advice.
Virginia
Marigold 2023
5/5
Danielle and Nitin were fantastic hosts. They were extremely thoughtful and caring and nothing seemed too much. Couldn't thank them enough. Very well organised and fitted in so much. Took all the hassle out of solo travelling. Good size group.
Lyn
Marigold 2023
A $500 non-refundable non-transferable payment is required for this tour. Up until 75 days before the start of the tour a $500 non-refundable deposit will be retained. For between 75 days and 45 days, 50% will be forfeited in addition to the non refundable deposit. For less than 45 days or for no shows the entire amount will be retained as we would have already had to pay for accommodation, transport, flights and activities, and this money will not be returned to us. Once the tour has commenced no monies will be returned to you. This is why travel insurance is compulsory.
Our rates do not include any kind of travel insurance and each guest must make sure to arrange their own necessary insurance prior to arrival in India. 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, in particular Coronavirus and repatriation expenses, 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
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 a 30 day visa can only be applied for 30 days prior to travel unless you want a 12 month visa. 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 3 days 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. We will also provide you with an info sheet on how to compete your visa application, separate to your trip notes.
Some further details – India Mission is where your application will be lodged ie Canberra, Sydney etc the office closest to you. You can use these contact details for hotel and reference in India sections. Royal Plaza Hotel Delhi, Address: 19, Ashoka Rd, Janpath, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, India Phone: +91 11 4355 5555. Your reference in Australia is your emergency contact. It seems there is no other option but to request a 6-month visa and for 60 days even though you may only be travelling for 9 days. “Double Entry” means you can depart and re-enter India twice on this visa, you will not to use this option. When you receive your visa application confirmation email you will see this comment under the dot points section – Please confirm that your ETA status is shown as GRANTED on our official website (https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html ) prior to commencement of your journey. If you go to this link you can print off your visa with a barcode and your photo attached, otherwise the email visa works fine too. Good Luck and welcome to Indian Bureaucracy!
You can view an example of a completed form on the link here, keep in mind this is a 2020 visa application so you will need to adjust dates and this is Tammie’s application so please complete your own person details.
All travellers are limited to two items of luggage each; a suitcase with a maximum weight of 20kg and one piece of hand luggage with a maximum weight of 7kg as well as your handbag.
It is essential that your luggage is lockable. Please note that Indian authorities will only allow bottles onto the aircraft if they have been checked in as main baggage. Bottles in hand luggage maybe confiscated.
Domestic airlines within India have recently reviewed their checked luggage limits, as such all airlines have now implemented a maximum checked luggage limit of 20kg. Please keep this in mind when packing for your upcoming trip. Any excess luggage charges incurred will be at the expense of the passenger.
NB* Please make sure when you pass through security that all of your hand luggage has a tag and security stamp including your handbag, otherwise when boarding the plane, you will be asked to return to the scanning section to have your tag stamped.
Tourists should consult your Family GP or Travel Health Clinic at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to allow time for your vaccines to take effect.
Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate complex dietary issues on our tours. If it is something you an manage yourself that is fine. But we cannot be responsible for peoples health and wellbeing in regards to food in foreign countries as sometimes things get lost in translation. WE hope you understand. WE don’t ever want our guests to become unwell whilst travelling with us.
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!
