Tour Introduction
Experience the incredible diversity of India as we journey from bustling Delhi and spiritual Varanasi to the magnificent Taj Mahal, the royal cities of Rajasthan and the blue streets of Jodhpur. Along the way we'll enjoy unforgettable cultural encounters, search for Bengal tigers on safari and celebrate the vibrant Holi Festival in a joyful explosion of colour. It's an adventure that will awaken your senses and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.Highlights
Celebrate the spectacular Holi Festival in a joyful explosion of colour
Witness sunrise and the mesmerising Ganga Aarti on the sacred River Ganges
Marvel at the breathtaking Taj Mahal, one of the world's most iconic monuments
Search for Bengal tigers on safari in beautiful Panna National Park
Discover the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples of Khajuraho
Explore the colourful Pink City of Jaipur and the enchanting Blue City of Jodhpur
Enjoy an authentic Rajasthani cooking experience with a local noble family
Experience India's rich culture through immersive workshops and local encounters
Explore Jaipur aboard inspiring women-driven Pink City Rickshaws
Explore magnificent forts, palaces, temples and bustling bazaars
Be captivated by the spectacular Sound and Light Show at Khajuraho
Stay in a handpicked collection of premium heritage and luxury hotels
Friends for Company!
Inclusions
Hosted throughout by a Sisterhood Womens Travel Tour Hostess, ensuring a smooth, supported and memorable travel experience
Return Economy airfares ex Melbourne (other departure cities available on request / Business Class Upgrade available on request)
National English-speaking tour escort throughout India
All transportation as per itinerary including domestic flights, train travel and private air-conditioned coach
Meals as per itinerary
All accommodation as specified in the itinerary
All sightseeing as per itinerary including entrance fees
Willing to share option (subject to availability)
Zoom Meet and Greet before departure
Notice
Activity Level:
This tour is designed for travellers with a good level of fitness, mobility and stamina who enjoy immersive cultural experiences and active sightseeing. Throughout India we'll explore bustling cities, ancient forts, magnificent temples, colourful markets, heritage villages and sacred sites on foot, while experiencing the unforgettable Holi Festival and the fascinating culture of northern India.
Travellers should be comfortable walking more than 10,000 steps on many sightseeing days, often over uneven footpaths, cobblestones, temple steps, railway platforms and busy streets while maintaining the group's pace. The combination of long sightseeing days, warm temperatures, crowded environments and repeated walking tours makes this a physically active journey requiring good endurance and mobility.
Activity Factors
✔ Regular guided walking tours throughout the itinerary
✔ More than 10,000 steps likely on many sightseeing days
✔ Walking through bustling markets and busy city streets
✔ Heritage walks through historic towns and villages
✔ Exploring forts, palaces and temples with numerous steps
✔ Uneven pathways, cobblestones and natural surfaces
✔ Walking tour through Old Delhi with NGO guides
✔ Rickshaw rides requiring easy boarding and disembarking
✔ Guided exploration of the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort
✔ Walking through Fatehpur Sikri and ancient archaeological sites
✔ Holipura Heritage Walk
✔ Heritage Walk and evening food tour in Lucknow
✔ Dawn boat cruise and walking along the ghats of Varanasi
✔ Death & Rebirthing Walking Tour in Varanasi
✔ Walking through Sarnath and the Weavers District
✔ Warm temperatures and extended periods outdoors
✔ Boarding and disembarking coaches, trains, boats and aircraft independently
✔ Independent luggage handling when required
✘ No compulsory hiking or trekking
✘ No sustained mountain climbs
✘ No technically challenging terrain
Addional Meal Allowance:
Breakfast is included daily, together with a generous selection of lunches and dinners throughout your journey. This leaves several opportunities to experience India's incredible culinary diversity, from traditional thalis and street food to rooftop restaurants and elegant heritage hotels. As a general guide, allow approximately USD5–10 for a casual lunch and USD10–20 for dinner at a local restaurant. Dining in international hotels, enjoying alcoholic beverages or choosing premium restaurants will naturally cost a little more. For comfortable budgeting, we recommend allowing approximately USD350 per person for lunches and dinners not included, together with coffees, bottled water, drinks, snacks and incidental treats throughout the tour. Travellers wishing to enjoy regular alcoholic beverages, premium dining experiences or additional café visits may wish to allow a little extra.
Tipping:
Tipping is customary throughout India and forms an important part of how local guides, drivers and many service staff earn their income. To make things simple and stress-free, Sisterhood Womens Travel operates a group tipping kitty. At the beginning of the tour, each traveller contributes to the kitty, which is managed by your Sisterhood Tour Hostess. Tips are then distributed throughout the journey to local guides, drivers, hotel staff, porters, restaurant staff where appropriate and other service providers on your behalf. This means you won't need to worry about carrying cash or deciding when and how much to tip, allowing you to simply relax and enjoy your holiday. The estimated contribution to the Sisterhood tipping kitty for this tour is USD120 per person. The final amount will be confirmed in your final travel documentation.
Visa Information and Travel Advice:
Australian Passport Holders required a visa to enter India. CLICK HERE for all the details. Please visit: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/india for all destination advice.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Friday 12 March 2027
Australia - Delhi (Meals Inflight)
Today our incredible Indian adventure begins. Meet your fellow Sisterhood travellers before boarding our international flight to Delhi, the vibrant capital of India. As we settle in for our journey, there's plenty of time to get to know one another, relax and dream about the colourful experiences awaiting us. From sacred ceremonies and magnificent palaces to bustling markets, wildlife safaris and the unforgettable Holi Festival, this promises to be a journey unlike any other.
Day 2 - Saturday 13 March 2027
Welcome to India
Namaste and welcome to India!
Upon arrival in Delhi we'll be warmly greeted by our local team before transferring to our beautiful heritage hotel in the heart of Old Delhi. The sights, sounds and aromas of India immediately awaken the senses as ancient traditions blend effortlessly with modern life.
India's vibrant capital is a fascinating blend of old and new, where ancient Mughal monuments stand proudly alongside modern skyscrapers. Bustling bazaars, colourful laneways, magnificent mosques and incredible street food create an energy unlike anywhere else in the world. From the historic charm of Old Delhi to the grand boulevards of New Delhi, this captivating city is the perfect introduction to India's rich culture, history and traditions
Overnight - Haveli Dharampura (or similar)
Day 3 - Sunday 14 March 2027
Delhi Sightseeing (B, L, D)
Today we discover Delhi through an extraordinary Five Senses experience designed to immerse us in the city's rich culture.
We'll wander through the bustling laneways of Chandni Chowk by traditional rickshaw, admire the magnificent Humayun's Tomb and Jama Masjid, visit Bangla Sahib Gurudwara and enjoy fascinating cultural workshops. Along the way we'll savour authentic local flavours and experience the vibrant energy that makes Old Delhi so captivating.
Tonight we're treated to an enchanting Kathak dance performance accompanied by beautiful classical music before enjoying dinner together at our hotel.
Overnight - Haveli Dharampura (or similar)
Day 4 - Monday 15 March 2027
Sacred Varanasi (B)
After breakfast we fly to Varanasi, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities and India's spiritual heart.
Widely regarded as the spiritual heart of India, Varanasi is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Set along the sacred River Ganges, its ancient ghats, colourful ceremonies and centuries-old temples offer an extraordinary glimpse into Hindu beliefs and traditions.
As dusk settles over the River Ganges we'll board our boat to witness the mesmerising Ganga Aarti Ceremony. Flickering flames, rhythmic chanting, ringing temple bells and drifting incense combine to create one of India's most powerful and unforgettable cultural experiences. Watching this sacred ritual unfold from the water is truly magical.
Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - Taj Ganges (or similar)
Day 5 - Tuesday 16 March 2027
Sunrise on the Ganges (B)
Rise early for an unforgettable sunrise cruise along the sacred River Ganges as the city slowly comes to life. Watch pilgrims gather along the ancient ghats, priests perform morning rituals and locals begin their daily routines beside one of the world's most revered rivers.
Later we'll explore Varanasi's famous temples, including the New Vishwanath Temple and Bharat Mata Temple, before this evening embarking on a fascinating walking tour through hidden laneways. Discover the traditions, beliefs and ceremonies surrounding life, death and rebirth in one of the most spiritual places on Earth.
Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - Taj Ganges (or similar)
Day 6 - Wednesday 17 March 2027
Into the Heart of Khajuraho (B)
After a leisurely morning we fly to Khajuraho, renowned for its beautifully preserved medieval temples. Celebrated for their extraordinary architecture and intricate carvings, these magnificent monuments showcase the artistic brilliance of the Chandela dynasty. Surrounded by peaceful gardens and rich history, Khajuraho offers a fascinating contrast to India's bustling cities.
Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these magnificent temples are celebrated not only for their intricate carvings but also for their extraordinary architecture and artistic brilliance. The remainder of the afternoon is ours to relax and enjoy our beautiful accommodation.
Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - The Lalit (or similar)
Day 7 - Thursday 18 March 2027
Tigers & Timeless Temples (B, L)
Rise before dawn as we journey into the breathtaking wilderness of Panna National Park, one of India's most important tiger reserves. Accompanied by expert naturalists, we'll venture deep into the park in search of Bengal tigers, elusive leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, deer and an incredible variety of birdlife. As the morning sun rises over rugged hills, forests and the tranquil Ken River, every turn of the trail offers the thrill of spotting wildlife in its natural habitat.
After returning to our hotel for lunch and some time to relax, we'll visit the magnificent Khajuraho Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its extraordinary architecture and beautifully detailed stone carvings. Built over 1,000 years ago by the Chandela dynasty, these remarkable temples are considered among India's greatest artistic and architectural achievements.
As evening falls, we'll return to the temple complex for the spectacular Sound and Light Show, where music, narration and dramatic lighting bring the fascinating history of Khajuraho vividly to life beneath a canopy of stars. It's the perfect finale to another unforgettable day in India.
Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - The Lalit (or similar)
Day 8 - Friday 19 March 2027
From Mughal Majesty to the Pink City (B)
After a leisurely morning, we'll make our way to the railway station to board our train to Agra. Travelling by rail is one of the most authentic ways to experience India, offering a fascinating glimpse into everyday life as we journey through ever-changing landscapes, bustling towns and rural villages. Relax in your comfortable seat, enjoy light refreshments served onboard and watch the colourful tapestry of India unfold beyond your window.
By evening we'll arrive in Agra, the former capital of the Mughal Empire and home to one of the world's most celebrated monuments. Rich in history, culture and magnificent architecture, Agra has welcomed travellers for centuries with its timeless beauty and royal legacy. After checking into our hotel, the remainder of the evening is yours to unwind and enjoy the hotel's facilities or simply relax in anticipation of tomorrow's unforgettable sunrise visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal—one of the true highlights of our Indian adventure.
Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - ITC Mughal Resort & Spa, Agra (or similar)
Day 9 - Saturday 20 March 2027
Sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal (B)
Before sunrise, we make our way to the Taj Mahal, where the soft morning light gradually reveals one of the world’s most celebrated architectural masterpieces. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this extraordinary monument took more than two decades to complete. Its graceful symmetry, white marble, delicate inlay work and changing colours create an experience far more moving than any photograph can capture.
We have time to appreciate both the famous views and the intricate craftsmanship found up close before returning to our hotel for breakfast.
Later, we take part in a creative Mughal Motif Workshop led by an art historian. We learn how traditional geometric designs are developed from numerical sequences and used throughout architecture, clothing and decorative arts, creating our own painted canvas to take home.
Our exploration continues at Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the residence of Mughal emperors for three generations. Its impressive walls contain elegant pavilions, gardens, mosques and audience halls blending Islamic and Hindu design. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure.
Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - ITC Mughal Resort & Spa Agra (or similar)
Day 10 - Sunday 21 March 2027
After breakfast, we depart Agra and begin our road journey to Jaipur, stopping along the way at Fatehpur Sikri. Commissioned by Emperor Akbar and used as the Mughal capital for only a short period, this beautifully preserved fortified city is built in warm red sandstone. As we explore its palaces, courtyards, temples and pavilions, we gain a vivid sense of the scale, ambition and architectural refinement of the Mughal court.
We then continue towards Jaipur, Rajasthan’s celebrated Pink City, surrounded by rugged hills and crowned by formidable forts. Jaipur’s palaces, mansions, gardens and timeless bazaars reveal a rich royal past that remains woven into modern city life.
After arriving, we check in to our hotel and prepare for a special evening at Barwara Kothi. Each of us is gifted a saree, with assistance provided to help us drape it in the traditional style. Wearing our beautiful sarees, we share a delicious Rajasthani thali dinner together. It is a warm and colourful introduction to Jaipur’s hospitality and a memorable evening of culture, friendship and fun.
Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - ITC Rajputana, Jaipur (or similar)
Day 11 - Monday 22 March 2027
The Magic of Holi (B, L)
Today brings one of the most joyful and unforgettable experiences of our journey as we celebrate Holi, India’s famous Festival of Colours. After breakfast, we dress in traditional kurta and pyjamas provided especially for the occasion and make our way to the celebration venue.
Holi marks the arrival of spring and is embraced across India as a time of happiness, renewal and togetherness. Bright clouds of pink, blue, green, yellow and purple powder fill the air as music, laughter and playful celebrations bring everyone together. Coloured water may also join the fun, helping the powders cling and ensuring we emerge with vivid reminders of the day. Traditionally, colours were created from flowers and plant materials, and each shade carries its own associations within Indian culture.
During the celebration, normal social boundaries fall away as friends, families and strangers share in the festivities. Afterwards, we enjoy snacks and refreshments before returning to our hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure, and we remain within the hotel to relax, clean up and relive the wonderfully chaotic, colourful and laughter-filled memories we have created together.
Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - ITC Rajputana, Jaipur (or similar)
Day 12 - Tuesday 23 March 2027
Jaipur's Hidden Treasures (B
After an early breakfast, we discover Jaipur from a fresh perspective on the Great Exotic Flower Tour. We begin at the wholesale flower market, where marigolds and other blooms arrive before dawn to be traded and distributed throughout the city.
Following their journey, we visit a temple to see how flowers are used in daily devotion, then continue to a local design studio where blooms that have completed their sacred purpose are transformed into natural dyes for block-printed textiles. The experience concludes with hands-on workshops, including making laddus with edible flowers.
We then explore the magnificent City Palace, a beautiful complex of courtyards, gardens, decorative art and royal collections, before walking to the remarkable Jantar Mantar astronomical observatory. A photo stop at the Palace of Winds is followed by a ride through the old city in pink e-rickshaws driven by local women, an inspiring initiative supporting women from low-income households.
Later, we travel to Amber Fort, ascending by local jeep to explore its courtyards, halls, paintings and dazzling Sheesh Mahal, where countless tiny mirrors reflect even a single point of light.
Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - ITC Rajputana, Jaipur (or similar)
Day 13 - Wednesday 24 March 2027
From the Pink City to the Blue City (B, D)
After breakfast, we leave Jaipur and travel by road through Rajasthan towards Jodhpur, a journey of approximately five to six hours. Known as the Blue City, Jodhpur is the historic gateway to the Thar Desert and was once the capital of the princely state of Marwar. Its skyline is dominated by the mighty Mehrangarh Fort, while a maze of blue-painted homes spreads across the old city below.
On arrival, we check in to our hotel and have time to settle in before a wonderfully personal culinary experience.
This evening, we are welcomed into the home of a local noble family for an interactive cooking demonstration featuring traditional Rajasthani dishes. Our hosts share recipes passed through generations and explain the spices, condiments and techniques that give the region’s cuisine its rich, hearty flavours. We watch the dishes come together, learn some of the family’s closely guarded kitchen secrets and hear fascinating stories of life in Rajasthan and the nearby Thar Desert.
Afterwards, we sit down together to enjoy the meal, sharing good food and conversation in the gracious company of our hosts.
Overnight - Ajit Bhawan (or similar)
Day 14 - Thursday 25 March 2027
Forts, Flavours & Fine Craftsmanship (B, L)
Our exploration of Jodhpur begins at the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, which rises dramatically above the Blue City. Built and expanded between the 15th and 20th centuries, its massive walls, ornate palaces and elevated position reflect the power and ambition of Rajasthan’s former rulers.
We continue to Jaswant Thada, an elegant 19th-century royal cenotaph crafted from white marble, before walking through the lively Sadar Bazaar, where local commerce and traditional ways of life unfold around us.
After lunch at a local restaurant, we travel to nearby Rohet for a hands-on Kashidakari embroidery experience. Working alongside skilled artisans, we discover this centuries-old craft and observe intricate floral and geometric patterns created using the traditional aari, or hooked needle, technique. We then try the delicate embroidery ourselves, gaining a new appreciation for the precision, patience and artistry behind every motif. A souvenir from the workshop provides a lasting reminder of the experience.
Later, a local henna artist shares the traditions of this decorative art and creates a personalised design on our hands before we return to our hotel for a relaxed final evening in Rajasthan.
Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - Ajit Bhawan (or similar)
Day 15 - Friday 26 March 2027
Jodhpur - Delhi (B, D)
After breakfast, there is time to reflect on our journey or take in a final glimpse of the Blue City before we transfer to the airport. We board our flight to Delhi for our last night in India.
Upon arrival we'll have the remainder of the day free coming together for our farewell dinner to celebrate magic moments with new friends for company.
Overnight - Delhi (TBA)
Day 16 - Saturday 27 March 2027
Delhi - Home (B)
After breakfast, we farewell Delhi, to begin our journey home.
As our Indian adventure draws to a close, we leave with memories of an extraordinary country experienced in many different ways. We have watched sacred rituals unfold on the River Ganges, searched for wildlife in Panna National Park, stood before the Taj Mahal at sunrise and celebrated Holi in a joyful explosion of colour. We have explored ancient temples and royal forts, travelled by train, shared meals in welcoming homes and discovered the skills of local artists and craftspeople. Just as importantly, we have experienced it all together, forming friendships through moments of wonder, laughter and discovery.
Day 17 - Sunday 28 March 2027
Welcome Home
Thank you for travelling with Sisterhood Womens Travel. We hope you return home with a heart full of memories and a collection of stories to share. We look forward to welcoming you on your next adventure and creating more unforgettable experiences together.