Incredible India
October 11 - 21, 2025
Taj Mahal, Tigers & Diwali Festival!
Come with us on an incredible adventure to India!
On this 11 day adventure, you’ll explore the three cities known as the Golden Circle; New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. This area is known for featuring some of the country’s most spectacular sites and we will be visiting forts, palaces, temples and of course, the Taj Mahal. We will also make a stop to visit one of Northern India’s treasures, Ranthambore National Park, where we will have the opportunity to see the Bengal tiger in its natural habitat. To top it off, we will finish our trip by celebrating Diwali, the festival of lights, India’s biggest and most important holiday of the entire year!
We will visit Taj Mahal for sunrise, explore Asia’s largest spice market, wander through centuries old palaces, forts and temples, learn to cook local dishes, head out on a safari and more. We think India is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered and we can’t wait to share this amazing country with you!
Day 1:
Welcome to INDIA!
Your trip begins with your arrival at the New Delhi International Airport (DEL). Most flights arrive after midnight, in the early morning hours.
You will be greeted by our driver who will be waiting for you and your fellow travelers with a Women Who Explore sign. You will be taken to your hotel for the evening to settle in and rest up before our incredible adventure begins!
Day 2:
New Delhi - markets & Monuments
Good Morning!! Start your day with a fresh cup of chai tea and traditional breakfast with the group before we head out to explore India’s capital, New Delhi. With a history that goes back centuries and as the second most populous city in the world, there is much to discover here.
In the morning we will be picked up by our driver in a traditional rickshaw for a ride through the city as we make our way to Old Delhi where we will explore its labyrinth of narrow lanes, traditional Havelis and colorful bazaars. We begin with a stop at Asia’s largest spice market dating back to the 17th century where our senses will be dazzled with delicious fragrances. Next our rickshaw driver will take us to visit Jama Masjid before we stop for lunch.
In the afternoon we will visit a few historical monuments including Humayun’s Tomb and Gandhi Smriti.
Tonight we will enjoy a group dinner where we will be delighted with fresh, traditional and flavorful Indian dishes. After dinner we will head back to the hotel for a good night’s rest.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Day 3:
AGra & Methab Gardens
Rise and shine - it’s chai time. After enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we will hop in the car with our personal driver as we make our way to Agra, home to one of the 7 Modern Wonders of the World.
As our journey begins, you will leave the bustling city and head into the countryside where you will get to experience a completely different side of this fascinating country. We will stop to enjoy lunch along the way. The drive is approximately 4-5 hours depending on traffic - gotta watch out for cows!
Once we arrive in Agra, we will enjoy lunch before we head to the hotel to check in, unwind, and freshen up. Later that afternoon our local guide will pick us up for a visit to Methab Gardens where we will have our first up close view of the stunning Taj Mahal.
We have one more stop to meet local artisans whose skills and craftsmanship have been passed down through generations dating all the way back to the time of the Mughal empire in the 1500s. Our evening finishes with a group dinner before heading back to our hotel and snuggling into bed for the evening.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Day 4:
Taj Mahal-wonder of the modern world
Today is a HUGE BUCKET LIST DAY!!! Our driver and guide will pick us up in the wee hours of the morning. Our guide will delight us with stories of the Taj Mahal, what it represents, and how it was created. After hearing its magical story and taking all the photos, we will make our way back to the hotel to enjoy breakfast.
Enjoy free time before today’s optional visit to Sheroes Hangout Cafe. This cafe is run by women who are survivors of acid attacks and started to give survivors a place to find acceptance, community, confidence and a means of income. You can learn about their mission and support their cause through the purchase of local crafts, coffee, snacks or they may even be offering henna. We’ll spend some time here before heading back to the hotel where you’ll have the rest of the day to relax by the pool, read a book, or enjoy a spa treatment. Dinner is at your own leisure tonight.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5:
to ranthambore national park
Today wake up and enjoy breakfast at your leisure. Today we check out and hit the road again as we make our way to Ranthambore National Park.
The journey to our next stop will take 5-6 hours. Along the way we will stop to explore Fatehpur Sikri, the first planned city of the Mughals.
After admiring the ornate architecture and learning about the fort’s history, we will stop to enjoy lunch before we finish our drive for the day.
After arriving at our beautiful resort, you’ll have time to settle in and enjoy the property. The rest of the evening is yours to relax. Dinner is included on site to enjoy at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 6:
it’s tiger time!
Wake up sunshine - it’s tiger time!! Today we have another incredible adventure for you!! Today we are heading out in search of the Bengal tiger!
We will be up before sunrise so we can begin our safari drive through Ranthambore National Park, a sanctuary famous for its wildlife. Said to have one of India’s friendliest tigers, it is also considered to be the best place in the world to photograph Bengal tigers in their natural habitat. While our goal is to find a tiger, two, or three, other animals that call this beautiful space home include the leopard, nilgai, wild boar, sambar, sloth bear and striped hyena to name a few. This sanctuary is also home to one of the largest banyan trees in all of India. We think this place is pretty incredible and it will give you some serious Jungle Book vibes!
After a morning safari, we will head back to the hotel for a delicious breakfast and the rest of the day is yours to rest until our next safari. In the late afternoon, we head out again for a second safari in hopes of spotting a majestic tiger at sunset.
We will return to the property after where you are able to enjoy dinner at your leisure, relax and catch up on some sleep.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 7:
jaipur-rajasthan’s capital + Cooking class
Today we will pack our bags after breakfast for our final drive of the trip. After a short 3 hours, we will arrive in Jaipur which is also known as the Pink City.
Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, is a vibrant blend of both old and new as it has been ruled by Rajput kingdoms for many centuries. This city has a lot to offer such as dazzling forts and palaces, art and textiles, colorful festivals and vibrant bazaars and so much more. Here there are endless places to explore!
Once we arrive, we will check in to our hotel and enjoy a light lunch. After a little down time to relax and settle in, we will meet at 4 p.m. for today’s main activity - a hands-on cooking class. Our local chef will take us to visit a local market to show us how and where locals shop. Once we pick up our ingredients, we will head back to the kitchen to learn about the spices and how they are used in local cuisine. We will use the ingredients we purchase at the market to make several delicious dishes that we will enjoy for dinner.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Day 8:
leopard safari + Street food tour
Today offers another BUCKET LIST adventure - a leopard safari! This is an optional activity and an early wake up call. Before the sun comes up, your driver will take you to the Jhalana Leopard Safari Park. This park is home to 30-35 leopards, and of that 6-7 leopards have their territory in the tourism area. This otherwise shy cat is the apex predator here and does not have much competition for survival here which makes them more confident and therefore sightings are more likely. This park is becoming a favorite destination to spot leopards in the wild. Sightings are frequent but cannot be guaranteed. If you choose to take the optional safari, you will leave before sunrise and you will be back at the hotel to enjoy a late breakfast.
Today’s morning is a free morning - you can relax with a massage, try a Bollywood dance class, adorn yourself with henna, or head out to shop for Diwali at one of Jaipur’s incredible jewelry or textile shops. This is your time so choose to spend it however you want and our guide is happy to help arrange anything you’d like to do!
In the afternoon around 3 p.m., sign up to join optional activity hand-block print workshop. Here you will learn how textiles are created and have the opportunity for hands-on experience to create your own print block fabric to take home with you. Jaipur is known for its textiles and designers from around the world come here to hand pick and even create their own fabrics so this is sure to be a fun and unique experience.
Tonight if you are up for a foodie adventure, join the group for a trip to Raja Park for a guided street food tour. Here you will have the opportunity to see and taste 10 different local’s favorite dishes! If you prefer to skip the tour you can enjoy dinner at a place of your choice, Jaipur is full of exquisite restaurants with beautiful patios and stunning decor.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Day 9:
diwali - the festival of lights
Today is another BUCKET LIST day and one you will always remember - it’s Diwali festival!
Our morning begins with another guided city tour visiting Amber Fort and a few other hidden gems in the city. After hearing the fascinating stories of Jaipur’s royal families, both past and present, we will take a break to enjoy lunch at the Curry Spoon restaurant, a restaurant that will make you feel like a royal.
In the afternoon you will have some free time to relax and prepare for the evening where fireworks will light up the sky tonight as the city celebrates Diwali festival.
Jaipur is known as one of the best places in India to celebrate Diwali festival. Diwali generally symbolizes the victory of light over darkness. For Hindus it is custom to light diyas, small earthenware lamps filled with oil, on the night of the new moon to invite the presence of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. Homes are decorated and floors inside and out are covered with rangoli, consisting of colorful and elaborate designs made from colored rice, sand or flower petals.
We will enjoy a traditional feast tonight as a group along with some delicious mithai, sweet Indian desserts, that are a staple of Diwali. Tonight will finish with a bang, literally as the sky lights up with a celebration of light, love and a new beginning.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Day 10:
jaipur - pink city tour
Wake up and enjoy a hot cup of chai. After breakfast our day begins with a visit to Jaipur’s famous flower market, Phool Mandi, where wholesalers from all over the city and surrounding villages come to sell their fresh flowers everyday. After wandering through the market and meeting locals, we will head to the most famous Lassi in Jaipur for a tasty treat.
The next stop on our adventure is a visit to the stunning architectural sites of Jantar Mantar and City Palace as we learn about the history and stories that make these places so special. Entrance to Chiva Niwas is not included but optional for those who would like to visit. After we will walk over to Hawa Mahal to enjoy an iconic view with a refreshing drink and snack at the Tattoo Cafe.
After a busy morning, you’ll have time to enjoy the rest of the afternoon as you’d like. Sign up for an optional activity, relax with an ayurvedic massage treatment, enjoy a walk in Central Park, or head out to one of the bazaars for some last minute shopping. This is your time to explore Jaipur and fulfill your bucket list wishes and our guide is happy to help arrange anything you’d like to do!
Tonight there will be an optional group dinner at a local rooftop restaurant. Enjoy a final meal with your new friends as you reminisce on all the memories you’ve created together on this incredible adventure!
Meals: Breakfast
Day 11:
namaste india, until we meet again!
It’s our final morning in Jaipur. Before we part ways on our journey back home, we will enjoy breakfast together. If you want to squeeze in one more adventure before you go, we have a BUCKETLIST activity for you - a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Aravalli Mountains in the countryside.
This exciting adventure calls for another early morning. This optional experience is an incredible way to end your trip in India as you enjoy this beautiful country from a very unique perspective floating over local villages, spectacular forts, breathtaking landscapes and hidden palaces. After the balloon ride, we will head back to the hotel for breakfast before packing up our bags and checking out of our hotel.
Airport transfers for anyone flying to New Delhi airport from the Jaipur airport will be provided on an as needed basis. For those flying back to New Delhi, we suggest booking a direct one hour flight from Jaipur International Airport (JAI) and arriving at New Delhi International Airport at least 3-4 hours before your departure flight.
As an alternative, a private car can be arranged for a transfer to DEL airport. It is approximately a 4-5 hour drive from Jaipur depending on traffic and we suggest arriving 3 hours before your departure time. If you need any help extending your travel plans, we are happy to help!
Meals: Breakfast
Ready to Book?
Ready to Book?
Questions? Please reach out to Us at info@womenwhoexplore.com
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$3,695 double occupancy in 4-star and 5-star hotels, havelis and guesthouses. Solo upgrade available.
If you are traveling solo, you will be assigned roommates upon request.
A deposit is due at booking to hold your spot with regular monthly payments. Additional payments may be applied to the trip balance prior to payment due dates.
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• 11 days / 10 nights accommodations in 4 star hotels, havelis, and guesthouses
• Private airport transfers from New Delhi International Airport (DEL) and to Jaipur International Airport (JAI)
• A local English speaking guide for tours in New Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur
• Ranthambore National Park guided morning and afternoon Bengal tiger safari
• Rickshaw ride (tuk tuk) and guided tour of Old Delhi and New Delhi monuments
• Visit Methab Gardens and Shereos Hangout Cafe in Agra
• Guided tour Taj Mahal at sunrise
• Guided visit to Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Amber Fort, and other hidden gems in Jaipur
• Experience Diwali festival and celebrate with locals
• 3 hour hands-on cooking class including a visit to a local vegetable and spice market
• Guided street food tour with a local tasting 10 unique dishes in Jaipur
• Stunning views and sunset at Nahargarh Fort
• Henna tattoo by local artist
• Time to visit local and shop at local bazaars and textile, pottery and jewelry shops
• Private driver and transportation in an A/C car between domestic destinations, to tours, etc.
• Meals - 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 7 dinners. Bottled water provided at hotel and refreshments are also provided by your driver and guide.
• All monument entrance fees and national park fees (Chhavi Niwa fee not included)
• All government taxes, tolls, parking fees and interstate taxes
• Women Who Explore trip leader with you and available for support 24/7
• Trip checklists, detailed packing list and pre-travel support provided in a private Facebook and WhatsApp group
• WWE Swag to take home with you!
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• Hot Air Balloon Ride - $350
• Elesafari Experience - $60
• Leopard Safari - $50
• Hand-Block Print Class - $30
All the excursions are available to add-on at the time of booking. Each option includes transportation to/from the activity and an English-speaking guide.
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• International flights to/from New Delhi International Airport (DEL)
• Transfer from Jaipur at end of trip to next destination
• Airport transfers if arriving outside of designated arrival and departure dates and locations
• Alcohol, additional beverages, snacks, and meals as noted above
• Tips and gratuity for local guides and driver (at the discretion of the guest)
• Any additional excursions or optional activities not included in the above
• Visa if applicable U.S. citizens and Canadian citizens are required to apply for an E-Visa ahead of time. Cost is $30 USD per person. Learn more here.
• Any travel related medical expenses such as immunizations, vaccinations, or required Covid-19 testing (not required for India as of 2/2023)
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses not included in the itinerary such as additional accommodations, transportation, souvenirs, etc.
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All meals will be provided as noted in the itinerary. Please share any food allergies/sensitivities at the time of booking or reach out to share with the trip host. We always do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions but cannot make any guarantees.
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This trip requires a minimum number of ladies to register in order for it to be confirmed. Once the trip reaches the minimum participant number, you will receive a trip confirmation email and a link to be added a private WhatsApp group just for trip guests. In this group further trip details will be provided along with pre-travel support.
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Please see our Terms of Service for our full cancellation policy.
All deposits are non-refundable at the time of booking, but may be transferable if done so within the timeframe outlined in the Terms of Service. Please make sure you are purchasing adequate travel insurance at the time of booking to ensure you are covered in case you need to cancel.
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Women Who Explore guests will be required to follow the local Covid-19 guidelines and requirements as set forth by the local governing body of the destination being visited.
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Travel (and medical) insurance is required for anyone traveling on a Women Who Explore adventure. Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. Your insurance policy should also include specific Covid-19 cover, including cancellation and curtailment cover if you or a close relative are diagnosed with Covid-19.
For recommended travel insurance providers click here.
If you purchase a Travel Select plan within 15 days of your initial trip deposit made (and insure your full trip cost), you would have two added eligible benefits for no additional premium: financial default and the pre-existing conditions waiver.
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Please note that the itinerary provided for your adventure is subject to change. While we strive to adhere to the proposed plan, unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, safety concerns, or other factors beyond our control may necessitate adjustments to the itinerary. We prioritize your safety and enjoyment throughout the adventure, and any modifications made will be done with careful consideration. We will make every effort to inform you in advance of any changes and provide suitable alternatives to ensure a fulfilling experience.