Bella (bellaandherbackpack) - Diwali Trip to India

Day 1 – Welcome to India! Our adventure begins in the heart of the capital, Delhi. Once everyone has landed and settled in, we’ll spend the day getting to know each other and soaking in the buzz of this electric city. In the evening, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner — a beautiful moment to kick off this journey, share intentions, and officially begin what’s bound to be an unforgettable two weeks together.

Day 2 – Get ready to dive into the heart of Delhi. Today’s all about settling in and visiting through the city’s iconic landmarks via the capital’s lifeline : Delhi Metro — from the towering minarets to timeless monuments  (Optional : you can choose what you want to visit). In the evening, we’re heading to the chaos and charm of Old Delhi for a lip-smacking food tour — a true deep dive into Indian cuisine. Expect spice, history, and stories in every bite.

Day 3 – An early morning train takes us away from the city and into the serenity of the Himalayan foothills. After arriving in Dehradun, we drive to our offbeat escape — a rustic retreat tucked away in nature. With lunch and dinner served fresh from the mountain kitchens, today is all about unplugging and breathing in that crisp mountain air.

Day 4 – Wake up in the clouds! After breakfast, explore the area at your own pace. Those seeking a challenge can take on the Nag Tibba Peak trek, while others can enjoy shorter hikes or immersive farm experiences right around the village. We’ll eat all our meals here — homestyle, nourishing, and made with local ingredients.

Day 5 – Today we head to Rishikesh, the spiritual town cradled by the Ganges. After checking in, it’s time to explore the colorful streets and charming cafés. As the sun begins to set, we’ll gather for our first Ashtanga Yoga session right by the river. It’s the perfect grounding start to our three-day yoga immersion.

Day 6 – This morning, choose your adventure. For the thrill-seekers, an optional white-water rafting session awaits on the Ganges. Prefer to take it slow? Opt for a sunrise yoga class or a long, cozy sleep-in. Later, we explore the Beatles Ashram, quirky markets, or just wander freely. In the evening, we meet again for another magical yoga session on a white-sand Ganges beach. (P.S. Expect sore muscles — but the good kind!)

Day 7 – We’ll start the day with a short, scenic hike to a hidden waterfall and secluded riverside beach. After a relaxed afternoon, we conclude our yoga series with one final session — soak in the progress, the calm, and the connection you’ve built over three days.

Day 8 – Time to chase one of the wonders of the world. We catch a morning train to Agra, and by afternoon we’ll catch our first view of the Taj Mahal from the peaceful Mehtab Bagh gardens across the river. Tonight, we dine at Sheroes Café, run by survivors of acid attacks — an inspiring and heartening experience of resilience.

Day 9 – We rise early to witness the Taj Mahal at sunrise, with a guided walk through this monument of love. After breakfast, we explore Agra and later board a train to Ajmer, reaching just in time to settle in and rest before Diwali eve begins.

Day 10 – Happy Diwali! Today we celebrate India’s biggest festival in the most authentic way — with family, food, laughter, and lights. Expect diyas (oil lamps), sweets, festive music, and a sense of home, even thousands of miles away. The highlight? A Diwali dinner hosted with a local family. This is celebration, connection, and cultural immersion at its finest.

Day 11 – After the festive fun, we explore Pushkar — a holy desert town known for its sacred lake and vibrant energy. As the sun sets, we board our train to Jaipur, the Pink City, and check in for a restful night.

Day 12 – Get ready to fall in love with Jaipur. Today is packed with iconic landmarks, stories of royalty, and architectural marvels. We’ll explore palaces, forts, and local crafts — learning what makes this city so magical.

Day 13 – The morning is yours to hit the bazaars, snap dreamy pink-hued photos, or hunt for treasures. In the afternoon, we dive into a block-printing workshop, learning the centuries-old craft and creating our own custom stoles — a one-of-a-kind souvenir and guaranteed conversation starter.

Day 14 – We return to Delhi by train and check into our hostel for our final evening together. Departure transfers will be arranged based on your flights. For those continuing on to Varanasi, take a breath—something completely different awaits.

Day 15 – An early train takes us to Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities on Earth. After we settle in, we’ll experience our first boat ride on the Ganges — a surreal way to witness life on its ghats (riverfront steps).

Day 16 – We start the day early again! With a sunrise boat ride along the Ganges. Later, a guided walk through narrow lanes and hidden temples offers a deep dive into the city’s myth, culture, and spiritual essence. In the evening, we witness the Ganga Aarti — a powerful fire ceremony on the river. The food, too, will be unforgettable — sweet, spicy, and sacred.

Day 17 – It’s time to say goodbye. Departure transfers will be arranged as per your flights. Carry the city’s energy, the laughter of new friends, and the glow of Diwali with you—this isn’t just a trip, it’s a piece of your story now.