Combine a tour of the famous Golden Triangle with the vibrant Festival of Light, Diwali. Celebrate the victory of light over darkness as India illuminates with colourful lights, lanterns and liveliness aplenty.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Delhi
Saturday 26th October 2024. On arrival in Delhi you are met at the airport and transferred to our hotel. The rest of today is free to explore India’s capital at leisure before meeting the group and guide at the hotel at 18:00 for a Welcome meeting.
For those able to arrive very early today or the day prior, why not get off the beaten track and explore Old Delhi with us on our optional 'Backstreets of Delhi' add-on tour. You will get to relish the taste of various street foods, from savoury to sweet. Along the way, visit Khari Baoli, the largest spice market in India and the colourful Bazar Matia Mahal, located opposite the majestic Jama Masjid Mosque. The tour will combine a mixture of metro, electric rickshaw and walking to get around.
Overnight: Delhi
Old & New Delhi
Delhi - Agra. This morning we enjoy a packed day of sightseeing in Old and New Delhi. Check out the UNESCO-listed Humayun’s Tomb and Jama Masjid - India’s oldest and largest mosque. Visit the iconic Sikh temple Gurudwara Bangla Sahib and its community kitchen feeding 25,000-30,000 people daily. We also enjoy a thrilling rickshaw ride around the Chandni Chowk bazaar and explore New Delhi. Walk down the Rajpath, formerly known as the ‘King’s Way’ and see the famous India Gate monument.
This afternoon, we will drive to Agra. After checking into the hotel, enjoy a group Namaste dinner for departures in 2024. Please note there is no dinner included for departures in 2025.
Overnight: Agra | Breakfast
Taj Mahal
Agra. Today we will tour of the legendary Taj Mahal, India’s most famous site. This iconic white monument was built by the Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century in memory of his beloved wife. It is perhaps the most extravagant symbol of love the world has ever seen and has no rival. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch the sunrise or sunset over the magnificent mausoleum so make sure to take plenty of photos!
We will also visit the impressive Agra Fort, which boasts some of India's finest Mughal buildings behind its fortified walls.
Overnight: Agra | Breakfast
Karauli or Dholpur
Agra - Karauli/Dholpur. This morning, we drive to either Karauli or Dholpur. In Karauli, we will stay in the beautiful Palace Bhanwar Vilas. An eclectic melding of both Oriental and Art Deco architecture, the heritage-listed hotel was built in 1938 as a family home of the Maharaja of Jaipur. In Dholpur, we will stay at the magnificent Raj Niwas Palace, which is known for its red sandstone, traditional Rajisthani architecture, and European-style ceramics. It's said that this heritage-listed hotel was built by the Maharaja to welcome HRH Albert Edward, who visited in 1876.
Spend the afternoon at your leisure exploring the grounds, perhaps check out the vintage cars or take a dip in the swimming pools. This evening, you can also opt to attend the evening Aarti (prayer).
Please note: Lunch will be included in 2024. Please note there is no lunch included for departures in 2025, instead you will have time to enjoy lunch at your own expense.
Overnight: Karauli or Dholpur | Breakfast, Dinner
Jaipur
Karauli/Dholpur - Jaipur. This morning we hit the road towards the vibrant UNESCO listed Pink City of Jaipur. On arrival, we will spend the afternoon on a tour of the illustrious City Palace and the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar Space Observatory, which features 19 separate astrological instruments.
Overnight: Jaipur | Breakfast
Jaipur
Jaipur. What better way to kick off the day with an optional hot air balloon ride over the bustling city of Jaipur?
Afterwards, enjoy a breezy jeep ride to Amber Fort, a 16th century fortress laid out over four levels, and overlooking the glistening Maota Lake. Known for its artistic architecture, the palace is built with pearly-white marble, and pale yellow and pink sandstone. The remainder of the day is at your own leisure, why not opt to explore the Johari Bazaar in the Old Pink City.
Overnight: Jaipur | Breakfast
Diwali in Delhi
Jaipur - Delhi. Today we drive back to Delhi. This is what you've been waiting for - the Festival of Lights, Diwali. Diwali is a Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of light over darkness, so you can be sure to see every market and building adorned with colourful lights and lanterns. There's plenty to do - from perusing the markets, to visiting the nearby temple, where locals will be offering prayers to their deities.
After visiting a local temple, we enjoy a traditional Indian dinner at a local restaurant or at the hotel and soak up the Diwali experience.
Overnight: Delhi | Breakfast, Dinner
Delhi
Saturday 2nd November 2024. Our Indian adventure comes to an end today. A departure transfer is included today for departures in 2024. If you are travelling in 2025 this can be booked for an additional supplement if required.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. Room sharing is not available on this tour.
Extra Prices
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Royale Regent Hotel, Agra
The stylish Royale Regent hotel offers views of the magnificent Taj Mahal from its rooftop pool, so guests can gaze at this World wonder while sipping on a cocktail and retreating from the hustle and bustle of the city. Each comfortable air-conditioned room features a minibar with tea and coffee making facilities, satellite TV as well as excellent en-suite facilities. Guests can also enjoy an array of flavours in the onsite garden or mutli-cuisine restaurant.
Royale Sarovar Portico, Agra
Experience the best of Agra's offerings at Royale Sarovar Portico, located just a 10-minute drive from the iconic Taj Mahal. Indulge in rejuvenating massages or pampering manicures and pedicures. Enjoy delectable meals at Hibiscus, where breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served. Unwind in the outdoor pool, socialize at the bar/lounge, or stay active at the fitness center. With free Wi-Fi throughout the property, this upscale property offers massage services, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center for a fulfilling stay.
Bhanwar Vilas Palace, Karauli
Built in 1938, this stunning property is the residence of the Maharaja (181st in the Royal Dynasty) and Maharani of Karauli. Both the architecture and furniture have been designed in fitting with colonial styles and the property offers a fantastic insight into the history and elegance of a bygone era. The property offers deluxe rooms and luxury suites, each including a range of modern amenities such as a mini bar, a well-appointed ensuite and a plush king-sized bed. In the evenings, guests can tuck into an array of regional specialties as well as international cuisine in the hotel's restaurant.
Raj Niwas Palace, Dholpur, Karauli
With vibrant history and a rich heritage, Dholpur Palace also known as Raj Niwas Palace, is a mesmerizing journey back in time. Once home to generations of Royals, this converted palace still reflects the magnificence of the Rajasthani architecture of that era. Guest rooms offer a refreshing mix of Indian heritage and modern facilities including air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and a mini bar. Set in 13 acres of garden, the Palace grounds are full of peacock and bird life that nip over from the National Chambal Sanctuary nearby.
Royal Orchid Central, Jaipur
The regal and grand Royal Orchid Central in Jaipur offers modern and elegant accommodation with a stunning rooftop pool an award winning Chinese restaurant. The comfortable rooms overlook the city skyline and are furnished in a contemporary fashion. Wi-Fi is available throughout and there is also an onsite coffee shop. Perfectly located in the centre of Jaipur close to the railway station and other transport hubs.
Park Inn by Radisson New Delhi, Delhi
Set in the heart of one of the most popular neighbourhoods of Delhi, the Park Inn by Radisson offers a comfortable stay in India’s bustling capital. With contemporary guestrooms which feature en suite bathrooms, high speed Wi-Fi, air conditioning and flat screen TVs. Enjoy al fresco dining and drinks at the 24-hour RBG Bar & Grill, which serves tasty traditional Indian fare and international cuisine. After a busy day of sightseeing, unwind with a swim in the hotel's sparkling pool or work up a sweat in the fitness centre. Ideally located just 20 minutes from the airport and a short walk from a metro station, it's easy to reach popular sites such as the Lotus Temple, India Gate and Connaught Place.
The holiday was amazing, from beginning to the end. Yusof was so knowledgeable about the history and present time India. Nothing was too much trouble for him. He was still answering questions 10 o clock at night. He made the Diwali festival so enjoyable, he took us to a restaurant with entertainment, with dancers and fireworks. Yusof was brilliant.”
Yusuf was one of the best part of the whole trip. He was knowledgable, professional and nothing was ever too much trouble. ”
Dear Charlie,
I would like to say that I had a wonderful time in India with on the Go Tours and that Sammi was an excellent tour guide, he gave us lots of useful advice, an insight into Indian life and customs, and furthermore he also went out of his way to accommodate some people's needs. In addition, the people I shared the tour with were truly lovely.
It was my first tour ever and I was truly happy with my choice, I will definitely recommend your company and Sammi. ”
Sammi was the perfect tour guide. I found his attentiveness very comforting and his knowledge of India really heightened my overall experience.
He was always there to answer questions anyone had, and he was always very accommodating to the whole group. There were a few things that didn't go to plan but he always came up with alternatives that accommodated the group very well. He was very charming, polite and I enjoyed the stories he had to tell. I had a situation where my phone was lost on the last leg of the trip, and when the phone was found he arranged to have it delivered back to me. I was astonished by his efficiency and hospitality in this instance.
On free time he was able to arrange any extra things we wanted to do and was happy to give any advice he thought we may have needed. I always felt safe and well looked after. Overall if I was to have Sammi as a guide again I would not be disappointed. If I was to choose to tour India again I would happily request Sammi as my guide.
The tour itself was good for the amount of days we were on. The hotels were all of a good standard and I was happy of the amount I was able to see in such a short amount of time.
All tour guides had a good knowledge of what was on the agenda and transport to and from locations was good. I would recommend this trip to others who wanted to see India on a budget and a short time frame. ”
Our guide, Yusef, was terrific. He was extremely knowledgeable, gracious, and helpful. He was well organized and the arrangements were excellent. Similarly, the driver, Mr Singh was excellent. The bus should have curtains to provide shade from the sun. I would have liked less time in Delhi and more in Jaipur. The hotels improved during the tour, I believe a higher class Delhi hotel for an increase in cost would be well received by future guests, we thought the Delhi hotel acceptable, but could have been improved.”
Incredible tour. We really enjoyed it and will defiantly use On the Go again. Yusuf, our tour guide, was amazing and really helped to make it such an enjoyable week. We learnt and saw so much, will recommend to family and friends. ”
I thought the tour was absolutely fantastic - a perfect balance between activites and chill out time and the number of sights and experiences that we had was phenomenal. I was especially impressed with Yusuf, he was a fantastic tour leader, very knowledgable and approachable with a good sense of humour. He really went the extra mile to ensure that we had a fantastic Diwali experience. I cannot praise him highly enough. ”
The tour was great! It was exactly what I had expected in terms of accomodation, transportation, and itinerary. We did so much in 8 days, but never felt rushed and had enough free time to explore on our own.
Our tour guide, Yusef, went above and beyond expecations. He was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful as a guide. He helped create a wonderful experience for all of us, especially for our first time in India.”
The tour was great! It was exactly what I had expected in terms of accomodation, transportation, and itinerary. We did so much in 8 days, but never felt rushed and had enough free time to explore on our own.
Our tour guide, Yusef, went above and beyond expecations. He was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful as a guide. He helped create a wonderful experience for all of us, especially for our first time in India.”
Yusuf was very knowledgable on the areas we visited, he was also very good with assisting us with what to expect before we stepped off the bus and very good at assisting wtih purchases from local sellers and where to buy food for lunch etc.
The only negative feedback: one night we did a tour of a local area not usually visited by tourists. We were a large group with lots of staff helpers and a guy with a video and a very bright light on the vid camera. It felt kinda like going to visit a zoo as we were escorted around enmasse, no opportunities to purchase or to interact wtih the locals. Not a comfortable feeling. Also, photos and video taken on this part of the tour, what were they to be used for? It would have been nice to have been asked/had this explained to us before a camera with a very bright light was put in my face several times, hence why I covered my face with my hand so I didnt show in any video footage.
I booked an additional activity on the first night of Bollywood Dancing, video and photos were taken on this night be neither myself nor Holly have received these. I have emailed the dancing academy directly but have not had a response. ”
At a Glance
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The holiday was amazing, from beginning to the end. Yusof was so knowledgeable about the history and present time India. Nothing was too much trouble for him. He was still answering questions 10 o clock at night. He made the Diwali festival so enjoyable, he took us to a restaurant with entertainment, with dancers and fireworks. Yusof was brilliant.”
