India: Palaces, Culture, and the Spirit of Holi

Location: Asia
Duration: 13 Days
Price: From $7,795
Activity Level: Level 1 – Easy Pace

India: Palaces, Culture, and the Spirit of Holi

Location: Asia
Duration: 13 Days
Price: From $7,795
Activity Level: Level 1 – Easy Pace

Overview

AdventureWomen welcomes you to India where you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey through its vibrant culture and history. Begin in Mysore, exploring majestic palaces and the lush coffee plantations of Coorg, where yoga and coffee brewing await. In Varanasi, experience the spiritual heart of India with a serene boat ride on the Ganga, the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, and the early morning rituals at Assi Ghat. Travel in luxury on the Vande Bharat Express to Agra to witness the breathtaking Taj Mahal. Dive into Delhi’s bustling streets. Finally, celebrate Holi with locals, embracing the joyous spirit and iconic landmarks of India.

Main Attractions

Majestic Mysore & Coorg

Explore Mysore’s palaces and Coorg’s coffee plantations. Enjoy rejuvenating yoga sessions and hands-on coffee brewing in the lush, scenic landscapes.

Spiritual Varanasi

Experience Varanasi’s spiritual essence with a serene Ganga boat ride, mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, and early morning rituals at Assi Ghat, exploring vibrant streets and ancient temples.

Historic Agra & Delhi

Travel on the Vande Bharat Express to Agra’s iconic Taj Mahal, then dive into Delhi’s bustling streets.

Map showing a travel route in India, highlighting flights between major cities and arrows marking a path from Delhi to Agra, Varanasi, Bangalore, Bylakuppe, Coorg, and Mysore.
Woman traveler enjoying India
Two women wearing hats and blue clothing stand smiling in front of the Taj Mahal on a sunny day, surrounded by tourists.
Five people standing in a circle and smiling down at the camera. Three women wear casual tops, and two wear long-sleeved outfits. They are outdoors with a stone wall in the background.
Group of people celebrating Holi, covered in colorful powder, smiling and posing outdoors.
Hands covered in vibrant colored powders reaching into the center, celebrating the festival of Holi.

Itinerary

AdventureWomen Guests at Welcome Dinner, India

Arrive in Bangalore, transfer to Mysore

Arrive at Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore (BLR) by 9 AM today. Proceed on a scenic drive to Mysore, one of the most picturesque cities in the country. You’ll check-in to a charming heritage hotel that was once a royal palace. Enjoy a lively welcome dinner where you can connect with your fellow travelers this evening.

Meals dinner
Mysore Palace Interior

Mysore City Exploration and Mysore Palace Visit

Discover the vibrant charm of Mysore with a silk factory visit and a tour of the iconic Mysore Palace, a marvel of Indo-Saracenic architecture that combines Islamic, Rajput, and Gothic styles. Enjoy a specially organized lunch with an inspiring group of local women. Conclude your day with a stroll through the old market area sampling local delicacies. Enjoy dinner as a group.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lush Coorg India

Travel to Coorg

After breakfast, set out on a 3.5-hour drive to Coorg, Karnataka’s coffee haven and check into your luxury resort nestled among lush coffee plantations. Enjoy lunch with your group. Next, you can unwind with an Ayurvedic massage at the in-house spa (optional, can be booked after check-in, paid separately) or enjoy complimentary steam and sauna services (prior appointment required). Dinner will be on your own today.

Meals breakfast, lunch
Two women travelers in India

The Art of Coffee-Making

Begin your day with a rejuvenating walk. After breakfast, delve into the art of coffee-making with the Blossom to Brew experience where you’ll learn how flavors vary by region and plantation conditions. Choose, roast, and grind your own blend of coffee. Take a plantation or nature walk to explore the serene surroundings. After lunch with you group, enjoy an afternoon and dinner at leisure.

Meals breakfast, lunch
Bylakuppe, Karnataka, India

Travel to Bangalore

Enjoy an optional morning yoga session before driving back to Bangalore. En route, visit the Tibetan settlement at Bylakuppe to explore a serene Buddhist monastery. Lunch will be on your own. Arrive in Bangalore and stay overnight near the airport.

Meals breakfast, dinner
Varanasi Ghat

Fly to Varanasi, Witness Ganga Aarti on the Ganga

Catch a morning flight to Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India. Enjoy lunch on board. Upon arrival, check in and relax. You can opt for a henna session in the afternoon and savor an à la carte dinner with your group.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Banarasi Silk

Varanasi: Subah-e-Banaras Celebration

Start your day early with Subah-e-Banaras, a soulful celebration of morning rituals at Assi Ghat. Enjoy a boat ride exploring the ghats. Savor breakfast before taking a guided walk through the ancient lanes of Varanasi, visiting the weavers’ community, temples, and vibrant bazaars known for their Banarasi silk brocades and saris. Enjoy lunch with your group. Spend the afternoon and dinner at leisure or exploring the city. In the evening, An optional visit to the cremation ghats can also be arranged and can be decided today.

Meals breakfast, lunch
Sarnath Lion capital

Board the Vande Bharat Express to Agra

Spend a leisurely morning by the ghats or practice yoga. Alternatively, visit Sarnath, where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Explore the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, home to the Lion Capital and the Wheel of Dharma, both symbols of modern India. Lunch is on your own today. At around 3 PM, board the Vande Bharat Express, one of India’s fastest and most luxurious trains, for a 7-hour journey to Agra. Enjoy onboard dinner and arrive in Agra late in the evening. Check in to your hotel and relax.

Meals breakfast, dinner
Agra Fort

Sunset Visit to the Taj Mahal

After a leisurely morning, start your day with a visit Wildlife SOS, a sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating bears and elephants. Enjoy lunch with your group after exploring the majestic Agra Fort. End the day watching the sun set over the Taj Mahal from the serene Mehta Bagh.

Meals breakfast, lunch
Women celebrating Holi

Sunrise at the Taj Mahal; Holi Celebrations at Private Venue

Wake up early for a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, the epitome of love and architectural grandeur. Listen to its timeless stories as you admire its beauty in the soft morning light. After breakfast, participate in exclusive Holi celebrations at a private venue, playing with colors in a safe and joyous environment alongside locals and fellow travelers. Enjoy a festive lunch with your group and spend the evening at leisure.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Delhi, India

Drive to Delhi

After breakfast, participate in a hands-on marble-inlay workshop where you can try your hand at the intricate art and meet the artisans behind it. Next, drive to Delhi (approximately 4 hours). Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax. Lunch will be on your own. In the afternoon, go on an optional visit of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, one of the most prominent Sikh houses of worship in Delhi.

Meals breakfast, dinner
Lodhi Gardens, India

Iconic Delhi

Immerse yourself in Delhi’s rich history and diverse influences. Visit iconic landmarks such as Qutub Minar, India Gate, and Lodhi Gardens, along with the vibrant Art District. Explore the handicrafts and cuisines at Dilli Haat and shop for unique souvenirs at the Craft Museum. Enjoy a farewell lunch with your new AdventureWomen friends. Reflect on the cherished memories you’ve created and celebrate the conclusion of an amazing journey through this truly remarkable country.

Meals breakfast, lunch
Group of women travelers in India

Depart from Delhi

Transfer to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi (DEL) for your flight home at any time today, taking with you unforgettable memories of this rich and diverse experience. A group transfer to the airport will be provided when most guests depart. The exact transfer time will be determined closer to departure. Private transfers at other times are available for purchase.

Meals breakfast
Woman in Delhi, India

Accommodations

Please note that all amenities were current when written and are subject to change at any time.

Fortune JP Palace

Fortune JP Palace stands out as one of Mysore’s premier hotels, blending rich tradition with modern elegance. It features 108 spacious, tastefully furnished rooms equipped with a wide array of contemporary amenities.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, minibar, flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi

Tamara Coorg

Tamara Coorg

Set amidst 184 acres of coffee plantations, Tamara Coorg offers luxury amidst nature. You will be surrounded by greenry, breathtaking views, and sounds of birds, at 3,500 feet above sea level.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, bathrobes, hair dryer, coffee / tea maker, flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi, air conditioning

A modern multi-story hotel building with illuminated windows, viewed at dusk, featuring a lit outdoor swimming pool in the foreground.

Taj Bangalore

Taj Bangalore is a luxurious 5-star hotel located featuring sleek, modern architecture and 370 stylish rooms including 25 elegant suites, all designed to reflect Bangalore’s contemporary spirit and metropolitan hospitality. Guests can enjoy a tranquil spa and outdoor pool. The hotel’s lush boulevards, attentive staff, and sophisticated amenities create a memorable experience for every guest.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, minibar, flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi, air conditioning

Amritara Suryauday Haveli

Amritara Suryauday Haveli

Constructed by the Royal Family of Nepal in the early 20th century, this majestic Haveli graces one of the most picturesque ghats of Banaras, offering stunning views of the sacred Ganga River.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, safe, flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi, air conditioning

Courtyard Agra by Marriott

Courtyard Agra by Marriot

This luxurious 5-star hotel is conveniently situated near the iconic Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, with easy access to the railway station, ensuring a seamless and memorable stay.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi, air conditioning

Hyatt Regency Delhi (or similar)

Hyatt Regency Delhi offers a flagship luxury experience in the heart of India’s capital. Perfectly situated, the hotel provides convenient access to Indira Gandhi International Airport, major embassies, corporate districts, renowned landmarks, and premium shopping destinations. All seven floors offer a panoramic view of the city and the hotel’s landscaped gardens.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, minibar, coffee / tea maker, flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi, air conditioning

What People Are Saying

“Thank you for organizing such a wonderful adventure. Best vacation ever!! My trip exceeded my expectations, and I hope to do more trips with AdventureWomen. I felt very safe throughout and 100% confident in our guide.”

What People Are Saying

“I can’t wait to book my next AdventureWomen trip. Thank you for such an amazing time. Everything was top-notch and just fantastic!”

What People Are Saying

“I highly recommend an AdventureWomen trip to any woman looking for a safe, active, and enriching journey. The trips are not only about seeing beautiful places but also about women empowering each other and embracing the spirit of adventure.”

Dates & Pricing

Start Date End Date Availability Starting At Booking Link
Mar 13, 2027 Mar 25, 2027
Space Available
$7,795
Standard Double
$7,795 total, $800 deposit
Standard Single | Only 1 left
$10,495 total, $800 deposit

Arrival: Arrive in Bangalore, India (BLR) on Day 1 by 9:00 AM.

Departure: Depart from Delhi, India (DEL) on Day 13 at any time.

What's Included

  • Accommodations as per itinerary based on double occupancy
  • All meals as listed in the itinerary
  • All ground transportation
  • Domestic airfare
  • Guided sightseeing and activities as indicated in the itinerary
  • English-speaking guide(s) throughout the trip
  • One group transfer on arrival and departure
  • Bottled water and soft drinks in vehicles

What's Not Included

  • International airfare to and from India
  • Optional activities
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic beverages (unless otherwise specified)
  • Fees for passport, visas, immunizations, or travel insurance
  • Cost of hospitalization or evacuation
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Gratuities

FAQs

Absolutely! You belong here. AdventureWomen welcomes all women and individuals who identify as part of the women’s community. We celebrate all races, backgrounds, orientations, abilities, and ages. Our adventures reflect the vibrant diversity of our travelers.

You can process your registration on our online booking system or over the phone. Most deposits are $800. In many cases, and unless otherwise indicated, your deposit is transferable if you notify us in writing 120 before your trip departs.

Be sure to check the ‘What’s Included’ section of the trip you are interested in. Once you get to the departure city and meet the group, we often include most meals, all accommodations, all activities (although there might be an optional activity at an additional cost), transportation while on the adventure, qualified local guide(s) and some trips also include an AdventureWomen Ambassador. Our trips do not include airfare to/from the arrival and departure cities. Internal flights are included.

Absolutely! In fact, we encourage it! Many of the women who travel with AdventureWomen come solo. For those that do not choose a single supplement, we pair you with a roommate. Usually, when we change accommodations on a trip, we will change roommates if we can, so you get a chance to know others in our group. A limited number of single supplements may be available for an additional charge.

That depends entirely on the trip! AdventureWomen adventure travel trips are rated according to the physical fitness level demanded by the included activities.

  • Level One: Easy Pace Our Easy Pace trips are thoughtfully designed for women who enjoy gentle activity, cultural immersion, and plenty of time to savor the scenery. They feature light walking, easy terrain like cobblestone streets or flat nature trails, and optional activities such as city tours, wildlife safaris, and scenic boat rides. This level offers a relaxed pace with flexible itineraries and minimal physical exertion.
  • Level Two: Moderate For women who enjoy staying active, balanced with some downtime, our Moderate trips offer a blend of movement and relaxation. Activities may include walking on gently rolling trails, with occasional uneven terrain like forest paths or shallow creek crossings. With activities like beginner kayaking or short e-bike excursions, this level is perfect for those eager to explore while trying something new.
  • Level Three: Dynamic Designed for adventurous women ready for a challenge, our Dynamic trips feature regular activity on varied terrain with moderate elevation gains. Expect natural obstacles such as rocky paths and shallow creek crossings. From glacier walks and whitewater rafting to ziplining and kayaking in calm to lightly-choppy waters, this level is perfect for those with hiking and outdoor experience and a sense of adventure.
  • Level Four: High Energy Our High Energy adventures are designed for women who crave being on the go! You should be prepared for full days of hiking across rugged, moderate-altitude terrain. With some steeper inclines and rocky paths, these trips often feature back-to-back adrenaline-fueled activities like canyoneering, multi-day treks, and Class IV whitewater rafting—perfect for experienced adventurers and hikers with good stamina and a passion for pushing their limits.
  • Level Five: Challenging Our Challenging trips are crafted for seasoned adventurers ready to take on remote, high-altitude terrain, and full-day treks. These trips are demanding yet deeply rewarding and designed for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. You should be in excellent physical condition and be able to hike up to 14 miles per day with steep ascents, rugged trails, and elevations reaching 19,500 feet. These are strenuous trips that require endurance and a commitment to training before departure.

A trip extension is an optional add-on to your main AdventureWomen itinerary. Extensions allow you to explore a destination more deeply, visit nearby regions, or enjoy additional activities before or after your scheduled trip. You can request an extension by contacting your Trip Manager. We’ll confirm availability with our local partners and send you the details, pricing, and next steps. For more information about AdventureWomen extensions, please visit our FAQs.