• Overview

  • Day by day

  • What's included

  • Travel notes

  • Not included

  • Your questions answered

Colour takes over each March as Holi unfolds across northern India, a festival of energy, ritual, and release. This is not a celebration observed from a distance, but one experienced from within. Our journey begins in Delhi, where the early signs of Holi appear in markets, temples, and daily life, before moving closer to its spiritual and cultural heart in Vrindavan and Barsana, where the celebrations take on a deeper meaning.

As the festival approaches, the atmosphere builds. Traditions rooted in the stories of Krishna and Radha come to life through music, colour, and community. In Barsana, the playful chaos of Lathmar Holi unfolds in a centuries-old exchange of ritual and theatre, while in Vrindavan, the festival reaches its peak as colour fills the air and the streets transform into a shared space of celebration.

Experience highlights

  • Explore Old Delhi through a guided street food journey
  • Witness the theatrical energy of Lathmar Holi in Barsana
  • Step into Holi celebrations in Vrindavan as colour fills the streets
  • Experience temple rituals and the spiritual traditions behind the festival
  • Unwind in Udaipur with a sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola

Holi is a celebration of colour, ritual, and renewal, but also of release. Throughout the journey, moments of intensity are balanced with space to slow down and absorb what has been experienced. From the sacred energy of Vrindavan to the quieter lakes and palaces of Rajasthan, the journey moves between immersion and reflection.

It’s a celebration of colour, ritual, and release, experienced from anticipation to immersion.

Limited to just 12 travellers to keep the experience intimate.

This journey moves through the cultural and spiritual heart of northern India, following the rhythm of Holi from its earliest preparations to its most vibrant expressions. Beginning in Delhi, we step into the everyday life of the festival before travelling to Vrindavan and Barsana, where Holi is not just celebrated, but deeply lived through ritual, story, and community.

As the journey unfolds, the intensity of Holi gradually gives way to quieter landscapes, slower mornings, and moments of reflection. The movement between chaos and calm is intentional, allowing space not only to witness the festival, but to absorb its meaning.

Our itinerary is intentionally designed around the lunar calendar and local traditions, allowing us to experience Holi in its most meaningful settings. As with all journeys shaped by living traditions, the flow may gently adapt to honour cultural timing and ensure each moment remains authentic, immersive, and true to place.

Itinerary

Day 01 | Delhi

Date : 18/03/2027

First Impressions | The Heart of Old Delhi

Green tuk tuk driving through the lively evening streets of Old Delhi during a guided neighbourhood walk     Street food vendor cooking traditional Indian noodles at a busy night market in Old Delhi

Highlights

Old Delhi by tuk tuk • Chandni Chowk food journey • Rooftop chai at sunset • Welcome Dinner

Along the way

Old Delhi comes alive amongst the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk, where centuries of history, colourful markets, hidden courtyards and everyday life unfold around every corner. Travelling by tuk tuk, we weave through the organised chaos that has shaped this remarkable neighbourhood for generations.

Street food has been at the heart of Old Delhi for centuries, and throughout the afternoon we pause to sample much loved local favourites while discovering the stories behind each dish. As golden hour approaches, we climb above the busy streets for traditional chai, watching preparations for Holi begin to appear across the old city before gathering for our Welcome Dinner.

Behind the design

Arrival days are designed to land softly. Guests often arrive at different times after long international journeys, so rather than launching straight into sightseeing, our Three Tenths Signature Welcome brings everyone together through local food in a relaxed and informal setting. It creates natural conversation, allowing strangers to become travelling companions before the journey truly begins. Old Delhi's remarkable street food and vibrant neighbourhoods provide an immediate introduction to the energy, culture and traditions that shape northern India.

Inclusions

Airport transfer • Old Delhi tuk tuk experience • Guided Chandni Chowk food journey • Rooftop chai • Welcome Dinner • Accommodation in Delhi

Day 02 | Delhi

Date : 19/03/2027

Community and Colour | Preparing for Holi

Visitors walking toward Gurudwara Bangla Sahib Sikh temple in New Delhi, India during the morning     Traditional Holi colour powders displayed in market stalls in India before festival celebrations

Highlights

Breakfast • Gurudwara Bangla Sahib visit • Langar experience • Guided market exploration • Accommodation in Delhi

Along the way

Thousands of volunteers prepare and serve free meals each day at Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, one of Delhi's most important Sikh temples. As we explore its peaceful courtyards and reflective pools, we discover the Sikh tradition of seva, or selfless service, before taking our place in the langar to share a small meal alongside the local community. Lunch is included afterwards, allowing us to continue our day while honouring the spirit of this remarkable tradition.

Returning to the bustling streets of Old Delhi, Holi preparations are now impossible to miss. Colourful powders, flower garlands, festive sweets and busy market stalls fill the neighbourhood as our local guide shares the traditions and customs behind India's most joyful festival.

As anticipation continues to build across the city, we gather for dinner knowing tomorrow marks the beginning of our own Holi celebrations beyond Delhi.

Behind the design

Before the celebrations begin, we've chosen to experience the traditions that bring communities together. From sharing a meal at the langar to watching Delhi prepare for Holi, today offers a deeper understanding of the people and customs behind the festival.

Inclusions

Breakfast • Gurudwara Bangla Sahib visit • Langar experience • Lunch • Guided market exploration • Dinner • Accommodation in Delhi

Day 03 | Vrindavan

Date : 20/03/2027

Colours with Meaning | Journey to Vrindavan

Hands holding bowls of bright Holi powder colours used during Holi Festival celebrations in India     Street decorated with Holi powder colours and festival garlands in Vrindavan, India

Highlights

Artisan colour workshop • Journey to Vrindavan • Guided orientation walk • Krishna and Radha storytelling

Along the way

The vibrant colours of Holi begin long before the celebrations themselves. During our artisan workshop, we discover how flowers, herbs and spices have been transformed into traditional powders for generations, while learning the symbolism behind each colour, revealing a richer story behind India's most joyful festival.

As we travel to Vrindavan after lunch, our guide shares the timeless stories of Krishna and Radha, whose playful spirit and enduring devotion remain at the heart of Holi. Their story brings new meaning to the temples, streets and celebrations waiting for us over the coming days.

Vrindavan is already alive with anticipation when we arrive. Decorated temples, flower markets and colourful streets signal that the celebrations are almost here as we enjoy a relaxed orientation walk before gathering for dinner ahead of tomorrow's festivities.

Behind the design

Before experiencing Holi, we've chosen to introduce the traditions, stories and symbolism behind the festival. Arriving in Vrindavan the day before the celebrations also gives you time to settle in and experience the town as anticipation quietly builds.

Inclusions

Breakfast • Artisan colour workshop • Lunch • Private transfer to Vrindavan • Guided orientation walk • Dinner • Accommodation in Vrindavan

Day 04 | Barsana and Nandgaon

Date : 21/03/2027

Lathmar Holi | Where Legends Come to Life

Festival crowd surrounded by pink Holi powder during celebrations in India     Large crowd celebrating Holi Festival inside a historic temple courtyard in India

Highlights

Barsana • Nandgaon • Lathmar Holi • Guided cultural immersion

Along the way

The neighbouring towns of Barsana and Nandgaon become the stage for one of Holi's most extraordinary traditions, where women playfully chase men with long bamboo sticks, recreating the legendary teasing between Radha and Krishna. Accompanied by our local guides, we discover how centuries of history continue to shape the colourful celebrations of Lathmar Holi.

Music echoes through the streets as flower petals and brilliant clouds of colour fill the air. Temple courtyards become the heart of the festivities, while rooftops and narrow lanes reveal unforgettable views of the celebrations unfolding below. Along the way, our guides share the traditions and local significance behind every ritual, creating a richer understanding of one of India's most iconic festivals.

Returning to Vrindavan as evening falls, there's time to reflect on an unforgettable day before Holi reaches its vibrant finale tomorrow.

Behind the design

Lathmar Holi isn't simply about throwing colour. It's a centuries old celebration rooted in the playful stories of Krishna and Radha, with each town contributing its own traditions to the festival. Experiencing both Barsana and Nandgaon alongside knowledgeable local guides reveals a deeper understanding of the customs, history and communities that make Holi unlike anywhere else in India.

Inclusions

Breakfast • Guided excursion to Barsana and Nandgaon • Lunch • Festival access • Dinner • Accommodation in Vrindavan

Day 05 | Vrindavan

Date : 22/03/2027

Holi | The Festival of Colour

Festival crowd celebrating Holi Festival with red coloured powder in India     Men walking through colourful Holi powder smoke in the streets of Vrindavan, India

Highlights

Temple Holi celebrations • Guided Holi experience • Colour play • Cultural immersion

Along the way

Temple bells, devotional songs and showers of flower petals fill the streets of Vrindavan before the festivities gradually erupt into the vibrant colours that have made Holi famous around the world. With traditional powdered colours provided, you'll have the opportunity to become part of the celebration, sharing in the joy, laughter and unforgettable spirit of one of India's most remarkable festivals.

There is no fixed route through the day. Instead, we move with the natural rhythm of the celebrations, pausing where the atmosphere invites us to stay a little longer and stepping away when quieter moments present themselves. Throughout the day, our trusted local guides are on hand to help us experience the festival respectfully, safely and with confidence.

As the colours begin to settle and the excitement gently fades, we gather once more for dinner, sharing stories from a day that will stay with us long after the last traces of colour have disappeared.

Behind the design

Holi is best experienced by being part of it, not simply watching from the sidelines. By exploring alongside trusted local guides, you'll have the confidence to embrace the celebrations while gaining a deeper understanding of the traditions, faith and community spirit that make this festival unlike any other in the world.

Inclusions

Breakfast • Guided Holi experience • Lunch • Festival support throughout the day • Dinner • Accommodation in Vrindavan

Day 06 | Vrindavan

Date : 23/03/2027

A Taste of Mathura | Slowing the Pace

Traditional market street in Mathura filled with colourful textiles, handicrafts and local artisan stalls.     Entrance courtyard of Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple in Mathura with ornate marble architecture and symmetrical archways.

Highlights

Taste of Mathura experience • Local markets • Traditional peda tasting • Chai stop • Yamuna River ghats • Free time to explore

Along the way

A leisurely breakfast and unhurried start ease us gently into the day before we make the short journey to Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna. One of India's oldest continuously inhabited cities, its lively markets, centuries old temples and family run sweet shops reveal another side of the Braj region where daily life has changed little over generations.

Rather than rushing between landmarks, we experience Mathura as the locals do. Colourful bazaars invite us to browse, a traditional chai stop offers time to pause, and the city's famous peda introduces us to a sweet that has become synonymous with the region.

Along the banks of the Yamuna River, pilgrims gather at the ghats as temple bells echo across the water and everyday life quietly unfolds. Returning to Vrindavan later in the afternoon, there's time to relax before we continue west towards Rajasthan tomorrow.

Behind the design

After the excitement and energy of Holi, we've deliberately designed today at a gentler pace. A later start after a leisurely breakfast allows time to rest and recharge before discovering the quieter side of the Braj region through the traditions, flavours and everyday life of Mathura. It's the perfect transition before we continue west towards Rajasthan.

Inclusions

Breakfast • Private transfer to Mathura • Guided walking experience • Traditional peda tasting • Chai stop  • Dinner • Accommodation in Vrindavan

Day 07 | Jaipur

Date : 24/03/2027

From Colour to Stillness | Taj Mahal and the Pink City

Traveller walking toward the Taj Mahal through morning mist in Agra, India     Historic stepwell architecture in Rajasthan, India with geometric stone stairways

Highlights

Sunrise Taj Mahal • Breakfast overlooking the Taj • Chand Baori Stepwell • Rooftop dinner in Jaipur

Along the way

The first light of day slowly reveals the Taj Mahal, where soft morning light and quieter pathways offer a very different experience from the busy crowds that arrive later. As the marble changes colour with the rising sun, there's time to appreciate the extraordinary craftsmanship, symmetry and timeless beauty that have made it one of the world's most celebrated monuments.

Breakfast overlooking the gardens continues the unhurried pace before we travel west into Rajasthan. Along the way, Chand Baori reveals another architectural masterpiece, where more than 3,500 perfectly symmetrical steps descend thirteen storeys below ground, demonstrating the remarkable ingenuity of ancient India.

By late afternoon, Jaipur's distinctive pink façades and bustling streets announce our arrival in Rajasthan's royal capital. As evening settles across the Pink City, we gather for dinner on a rooftop overlooking the city, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in our journey.

Behind the design

Some experiences are worth setting the alarm for. Rather than visiting the Taj Mahal with the large crowds arriving from Delhi later in the morning, we've positioned ourselves in nearby Vrindavan and set off before sunrise. The early start rewards us with one of the world's most iconic landmarks at its most peaceful, creating a far more memorable experience before continuing into Rajasthan.

Inclusions

Sunrise Taj Mahal visit • Breakfast overlooking the Taj • Chand Baori Stepwell • Lunch • Private transfer to Jaipur • Rooftop dinner • Accommodation in Jaipur

Day 08 | Jaipur

Date : 25/03/2027

Craft and Palace | The Art of Rajasthan

Historic palace courtyard with reflective water feature in Rajasthan, India     Hands creating traditional Indian block print textiles during a cultural workshop in Rajasthan

Highlights

Amber Fort • Artisan workshop • Time to enjoy Jaipur

Along the way

Perched high above Jaipur, Amber Fort showcases the extraordinary craftsmanship of the Rajput rulers through mirrored halls, painted gateways, peaceful courtyards and intricate carvings. As we explore with our guide, stories of royal life, remarkable engineering and artistic vision reveal why this hilltop fortress remains one of Rajasthan's greatest architectural treasures.

That same spirit of craftsmanship continues throughout Jaipur today. Meeting local artisans, we discover how generations of textile printers, gemstone cutters, potters or block printers continue to preserve skills that have shaped the city's creative identity for centuries. Rather than simply watching demonstrations, there's the opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation for the patience, precision and pride behind each handcrafted piece.

With time to explore at your own pace, colourful bazaars, hidden cafés and lively streets invite you to experience Jaipur beyond its famous landmarks before another relaxed evening dinner in the Pink City.

Behind the design

Jaipur is often celebrated for its magnificent palaces and forts, but its greatest treasures are equally found in the workshops of local artisans. We've deliberately paired Amber Fort with a traditional craft experience to reveal how the creativity that shaped Rajasthan's royal past continues to thrive in everyday life today.

Inclusions

Breakfast • Amber Fort visit • Artisan workshop • Dinner • Accommodation in Jaipur

Day 09 | Udaipur

Date : 26/03/2027

Lakes and Light | The White City

Traditional green tuk tuk driving through Udaipur Old City in Rajasthan, India     Evening dinner inside a historic palace courtyard in Rajasthan, India

Highlights

Flight to Udaipur • Tuk tuk food exploration • Old City discovery • Luxury heritage stay

Along the way

Travelling by tuk tuk with our local guide, we weave through Udaipur's colourful Old City, discovering lively markets, family run eateries and neighbourhoods that many visitors never experience. Along the way, a series of local tastings introduces the flavours that have shaped the City of Lakes' culinary identity for generations.

After our guided exploration, there's free time to enjoy Udaipur at your own pace before we check into our beautiful heritage property overlooking Lake Pichola. Dinner together marks the beginning of our final two nights in one of Rajasthan's most elegant settings, where timeless hospitality and lakeside views provide a fitting finale to our journey through India.

Behind the design

After the colour, energy and excitement of Holi, we wanted the journey to finish somewhere truly deserving of the memories you've created. From the moment we discovered this beautiful heritage property overlooking Lake Pichola, it felt like the perfect finale. Elegant interiors, lakeside views and timeless Rajasthani hospitality create a setting where the journey naturally slows, allowing you to reflect on everything you've experienced before returning home.

Inclusions

Breakfast • Flight to Udaipur • Tuk tuk food exploration • Dinner • Luxury heritage accommodation overlooking Lake Pichola

Day 10 | Udaipur

Date : 27/03/2027

Stillness After Colour | A Gentle Farewell

Peaceful spa retreat with arches overlooking water in Rajasthan, India     Sunset over Lake Pichola with traditional boats in Udaipur, Rajasthan

Highlights

Traditional Indian spa ritual • Time to explore Udaipur • Sunset cruise on Lake Pichola • Farewell dinner

Along the way

A traditional Indian spa ritual invites us to slow down and savour our final full day together, drawing on centuries of wellness traditions that reflect the gentler pace of Rajasthan. Afterwards, there's free time to enjoy Udaipur at your own pace before we reunite on the lake.

As the afternoon light begins to soften, we board our sunset cruise across Lake Pichola. Historic palaces, elegant ghats and the surrounding Aravalli Hills are reflected in the still waters, creating one of Udaipur's most beautiful and memorable experiences as day gently gives way to evening.

Our farewell dinner overlooking the lake brings the journey to a fitting close. Sharing favourite memories, new friendships and the remarkable experiences of the past ten days, we celebrate everything that has made this adventure through India so unforgettable.

Behind the design

Every journey deserves time to reflect before it ends. Rather than filling the final day with more sightseeing, we've chosen experiences that encourage you to slow down, celebrate the friendships you've made and appreciate the beauty of Udaipur before heading home.

Inclusions

Breakfast • Traditional Indian spa ritual • Sunset Lake Pichola cruise • Farewell dinner • Accommodation in Udaipur

Day 11 | Delhi

Date : 28/03/2027

Phir milenge | Until We Meet Again

Suitcase waiting in a hotel lobby during departure day in India     Coffee and travel journal beside airport window before departure from India

Highlights

Farewell breakfast

The journey draws to a gentle close this morning as we gather for one final breakfast together before beginning our journey home. There's time for one last conversation, another cup of coffee, and a final opportunity to reflect on the colourful celebrations, timeless traditions and warm hospitality that have shaped our time in India.

Over the past eleven days, we've experienced India through its remarkable contrasts, from the bustling streets of Old Delhi and the joyful energy of Holi to the royal heritage of Rajasthan and the peaceful beauty of Udaipur. We hope you'll carry home a deeper understanding of India's traditions, the warmth of its people and the incredible diversity of its cuisine.

When the time comes, we travel to Delhi for our onward international departures. While our journey together may be coming to an end, we hope the experiences we've shared continue to inspire new adventures for years to come.

Inclusions

Breakfast • Domestic flight to Delhi with support

Delhi and Holi preparations

  • Guided Old Delhi street food experience
  • Rickshaw journey through Chandni Chowk
  • Rooftop chai experience overlooking Old Delhi
  • Visit to Gurudwara Bangla Sahib and langar experience
  • Artisan Holi colour workshop and cultural storytelling
  • Guided exploration of Delhi’s markets, temples, and early Holi preparations

Signature Vrindavan and Holi experiences

  • Journey into Vrindavan during Holi celebrations
  • Temple Holi celebrations and cultural immersion
  • Lathmar Holi experience in Barsana and Nandgaon
  • Guided insight into Holi traditions, rituals, and symbolism
  • Supportive guided experience throughout major Holi events

Agra and Rajasthan experiences

  • Sunrise Taj Mahal experience
  • Guided visit to Chand Baori stepwell
  • Amber Fort cultural exploration
  • Artisan workshop exploring block printing, textiles, or traditional crafts
  • Guided exploration of Jaipur’s markets, neighbourhoods, and historic spaces

Udaipur and reflection

  • Tuk tuk exploration through Udaipur’s Old City
  • Food tastings and local cultural experiences
  • Traditional Indian spa therapy experience
  • Sunset boat experience on Lake Pichola
  • Farewell lakeside dinner in Udaipur

Food and dining

  • 10 included breakfasts
  • 6 included lunches
  • 10 included dinners
  • While many are shared experiences, selected evenings offer the flexibility to enjoy dinner independently if you prefer to discover somewhere of your own
  • A selection of local restaurants showcasing regional cuisine and seasonal specialities
  • Experiences ranging from street food and local tastings throughout Rajasthan to refined Udaipur dining

Accommodation

    • 2 nights in Delhi
    • 4 nights in Vrindavan
    • 2 nights in Jaipur
  • 2 nights in Udaipar at our signature stay
  • Accommodation is minimum 3-star standard, with exceptional unrated properties chosen when they offer a more memorable experience
  • All rooms are private and include en-suite bathrooms

Our signature stay

  • As the journey draws to a close, the final two nights are spent in one of Udaipur's historic heritage properties overlooking the waters of Lake Pichola. Ornate interiors, lake views, and a farewell dinner in one of Rajasthan's most beautiful settings provide a fitting conclusion to the colour and energy of Holi

Historic Taj Lake Palace hotel on Lake Pichola in Udaipur at sunrise Courtyard pool and outdoor dining area at at the Taj Lake Palace hotel in Udaipur, India Rooftop terrace overlooking Lake Pichola and the historic city of Udaipur at sunset Twin bedroom with lake views at a heritage Taj Lake Palace hotel in Udaipur, India

Transport and logistics

  • Airport transfers on arrival and departure days
  • Domestic flights within India included:
    • Jaipur to Udaipur
    • Udaipur to Delhi
  • Private transport between destinations, experiences and excursions included
  • Entrance fees and logistical arrangements handled throughout

Guidance and support

  • Fully guided throughout by a dedicated tour leader and knowledgeable local hosts
  • Cultural insight and thoughtful guidance woven throughout the journey
  • Local support during Holi celebrations and major festival days
  • Seamless coordination throughout, allowing you to stay present in the experience

The Three Tenths Promise

  • Maximum 12 guests • Every journey is limited to twelve guests, or fewer
  • Inclusive pricing • All gratuities for guides, transport and activities are included throughout
  • No "optional" up-selling • Every experience is included because we believe it belongs in the journey
  • Thoughtfully paced • Structure when it matters. Freedom when it doesn't
  • Hand selected stays • Every stay is personally visited before it's included because where you stay shapes how you experience a destination

Our accommodation

  • Our accommodation throughout the journey has been carefully selected to reflect both the intensity and contrast of the experience, balancing energetic festival settings with quieter stays for rest and recovery
  • In Delhi, properties are chosen for their atmosphere, comfort, and proximity to the cultural neighbourhoods and experiences explored throughout the opening days of the journey
  • In Vrindavan, accommodation places us close to the heart of the Holi celebrations, allowing easier access to festival activity while still offering space to step back from the intensity of the streets
  • In Jaipur and Udaipur, properties reflect the softer rhythm of Rajasthan, balancing heritage character, comfort, and atmosphere as the pace of the journey gradually slows
  • Across all locations, accommodation has been selected not for excess, but for warmth, comfort, atmosphere, and ease throughout the journey
  • All rooms are private and include en suite bathrooms

Arrival and departure days

  • Airport transfers are included for all guests arriving on Day 1 and departing on the final day of the journey
  • Arrival day is intentionally designed with flexibility in mind, allowing time to settle into the hotel, explore the surrounding neighbourhood, or simply pause before the journey begins
  • Our first shared experience takes place in the late afternoon on Day 1, allowing guests arriving earlier in the day time to comfortably transfer from the airport and settle in before meeting the group
  • Hotel check in is typically available from 3:00pm onwards. Guests arriving earlier may store luggage with the hotel prior to check in
  • Your tour host will be waiting to welcome you at the hotel on arrival day, offering assistance with check in and luggage storage where needed, along with recommendations for exploring the surrounding neighbourhood before the journey begins
  • On departure day, no activities are planned beyond breakfast, allowing flexibility for onward travel arrangements
  • We recommend booking onward departure flights from Delhi from 3:00pm onwards on the final day. Your included domestic flight from Udaipur is expected to arrive around midday, providing a comfortable connection window before international departures.

Festival timing

  • March marks the arrival of spring across northern India, when Holi celebrations unfold throughout cities, temples, and villages
  • Festival dates follow the Hindu lunar calendar, with celebrations building gradually before reaching their peak during Holi itself
  • Our journey is intentionally timed to experience both the anticipation leading into Holi and the major celebrations in Vrindavan and Barsana
  • The atmosphere evolves significantly throughout the itinerary, beginning with preparation and ritual before moving into large scale colour celebrations and community gatherings
  • Travelling during Holi offers a rare opportunity to experience India during one of its most emotionally expressive and culturally significant festivals

What to expect

  • Holi celebrations can be energetic, crowded, noisy, and highly immersive, particularly during the festival days in Vrindavan and Barsana
  • Coloured powders, music, dancing, and spontaneous celebration are natural parts of the experience throughout Holi festival areas
  • Some festival environments may feel overwhelming at times, particularly for travellers unused to large crowds or intense sensory experiences
  • Throughout the journey, there are also quieter moments designed for rest, reflection, and recovery between more energetic festival days
  • Many experiences included in the itinerary are seasonal and only take place during the Holi period

Why March is the best time to go

  • Holi takes place only once each year and transforms northern India in a way that cannot be experienced during any other season
  • Vrindavan and Barsana are among the most significant destinations in India for Holi celebrations, where traditions connected to Krishna and Radha remain deeply woven into daily life
  • March brings warmer spring temperatures before the extreme heat of later months arrives across northern India
  • Rajasthan begins to soften into warmer evenings and golden light during March, creating ideal conditions for the slower final days of the journey
  • Travelling during this period allows guests to experience India at a time of celebration, renewal, ritual, and seasonal transition

Seasonal weather

  • March temperatures across northern India are generally warm and comfortable, with Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Udaipur typically ranging between 18°C to 32°C / 64°F to 90°F
  • Evenings and early mornings can occasionally feel cooler, particularly in Rajasthan
  • Festival days often involve long periods outdoors, including walking through crowded streets, temple areas, and village celebrations
  • Conditions are generally dry during March, with strong daytime sunlight common throughout the journey
  • Indoor spaces, restaurants, and hotels are widely air conditioned throughout the itinerary

Visa requirements

  • Visa and entry requirements vary depending on your nationality, passport, and country of residence
  • Guests are responsible for ensuring they meet all passport, visa, transit, vaccination, and entry requirements for India
  • We recommend checking official government travel advice and visa information well in advance of departure, as requirements can occasionally change without notice
  • India may require visa applications, online pre registration, proof of onward travel, accommodation details, or minimum passport validity periods
  • Your passport should generally have at least 6 months validity remaining from your date of arrival, have sufficient pages for entry and exit stamps, and generally be in good condition (unless otherwise stated by local authorities)
  • Once your booking is confirmed, additional guidance and supporting travel information will be provided where relevant
  • Official visa information for India can be found here

Practical considerations

  • This journey includes extended walking through busy streets, temple areas, markets, and festival gatherings
  • Comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle are strongly recommended
  • During Holi celebrations, guests should expect coloured powder on clothing, shoes, bags, cameras, and personal items
  • Clothing worn during Holi festival days should ideally be lightweight, comfortable, and suitable for colour exposure
  • Protective covers for phones and cameras are recommended during festival celebrations
  • Some roads and public areas may operate differently during Holi celebrations due to increased crowds, local processions, and festival activity
  • Our itinerary is designed to balance immersive celebration with structured guidance and support throughout the journey

Flights and arrival

  • International airfare to and from India: Single city international airfare required
    • Arrive: Delhi (DEL)
    • Depart: Delhi (DEL)

Travel requirements

  • Travel insurance (required for participation)
  • Relevant visas where applicable (see Travel notes section)

Personal expenses and free time options

  • Meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary
  • Personal purchases and incidental expenses
  • Optional activities during periods of free time

Holi is intentionally colourful, and some staining to clothing, shoes, or bags is possible during the festival days.

We recommend bringing lightweight clothing that you are comfortable fully embracing the experience in. Phones, cameras, and valuables should ideally be protected with simple covers or waterproof pouches during major celebrations.

The coloured powders used throughout the journey are typically natural festival powders commonly used during Holi celebrations.

Holi can feel energetic, crowded, and highly immersive, particularly in places such as Vrindavan and Barsana.

Throughout the journey, experiences are carefully planned with trusted local support, structured guidance, and thoughtful pacing to help guests feel comfortable within the intensity of the celebrations.

Our role is not only to guide you through the festival itself, but also to create balance, support, and space throughout the experience.

Absolutely. In many ways, this journey has been intentionally designed for travellers experiencing India for the first time. The itinerary balances the energy and intensity that make India so unforgettable with quieter moments, slower pacing, comfortable accommodation, and thoughtful guidance throughout the experience.

From the movement of Old Delhi to the colour and emotion of Holi, there will certainly be moments that feel vivid, immersive, and outside everyday comfort zones, but that is also part of what makes India such a powerful place to experience.

Throughout the journey, guests are supported by a dedicated tour leader and trusted local guides who help navigate everything from logistics and cultural context to the smaller practical details along the way. The experience is designed to feel immersive without ever feeling unsupported.

No. While Holi has deep roots in Hindu tradition and spirituality, the experience of the festival extends far beyond religion alone. Throughout the journey, we explore the stories, rituals, music, symbolism, and community traditions connected to Holi in a respectful and accessible way.

Many moments during the trip take place in temples and culturally significant spaces, but no religious participation is expected. The journey is designed for culturally curious travellers who want to experience India thoughtfully, whether spiritual, religious, or simply interested in the traditions and atmosphere surrounding the festival.

Holi is joyful, loud, emotional, chaotic, playful, spiritual, and unlike almost anything else in the world. Streets fill with music, dancing, colour, celebration, laughter, and movement as communities gather throughout temples, courtyards, and neighbourhoods.

At times the experience can feel intense and overwhelming in the best possible way, particularly during the major celebration days.

The journey is intentionally designed to balance these more intense moments with quieter periods of rest, reflection, and slower cultural experiences.

Not at all. Some travellers fully immerse themselves in every celebration, while others prefer quieter observation at certain moments. There is no pressure to participate beyond your own comfort level. The experience is designed to allow space for both active celebration and simply witnessing the atmosphere unfolding around you.

Bottled or filtered drinking water is readily available throughout the journey, including during transfers, hotel stays, and daily experiences.

Your tour leader will also provide practical local guidance throughout the trip, allowing guests to settle comfortably into the experience.

Not at all. Indian cuisine is incredibly diverse, and many dishes throughout the journey are mild, fragrant, and balanced rather than intensely spicy. The food experiences included throughout the itinerary are designed to introduce guests to a variety of traditional dishes and regional cooking styles at a comfortable pace.

There is always flexibility throughout the journey, and guests are encouraged to explore new flavours in a way that suits their own comfort level. Many restaurants and dining experiences can also accommodate milder preferences when requested.