Delhi, the capital of India, awaits you with its splendid blend of ancient and modern architecture, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage. As you arrive at Delhi International Airport, you will be greeted by our friendly staff and taken to your hotel in a private vehicle. During your stay in this historic city, you will discover its charm through its monuments, designs and cuisines, which offer a range of styles and flavours to please every palate. You will also experience the religious diversity of the country by visiting places like Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, a Sikh temple that boasts the largest kitchen in the city, or Jama Masjid, which happens to be the biggest mosque in India.

Meals:   B | – | –
Accommodation:  Golden Haveli

Our journey west from Delhi takes us to vibrant Rajasthan, where we reach Jaipur, the Pink city that greets us with its splendid architecture and culture. We marvel at the grandeur of this regal city, visiting its impressive palaces, forts, showrooms and markets that showcase its rich history and skill in various fields such as textiles, jewellery, pottery and painting. We also get a chance to mingle with a hospitable Rajasthani family, learn their culinary secrets, and taste their delicious homemade food that reflects their customs and tastes. We enjoy their warm hospitality and learn about their lifestyle and values. We also get exclusive access to the studios of well-known designers, where we witness their creativity and innovation. We take a trip to the countryside to see the traditional indigo dyeing process and learn about the art’s natural history. We witness skilled block printmakers in action and marvel at their intricate designs and patterns. We also purchase authentic textiles from the craftsmen, appreciating the quality and authenticity of their work.

Meals:   B | – | –
Accommodation:  Ikaki Niwas

After a hearty breakfast at the homestay, we drive to Agra, the city of love and history. We will visit the Sheroes cafe, where we will meet some amazing women who have survived acid attacks and turned their trauma into strength. They run a social enterprise that supports other women and educates people about violence against women. We can talk to them and hear their stories and vision. Later, we will marvel at the Taj Mahal, one of the world’s wonders. This stunning mausoleum was built by Shah Jahan for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. A knowledgeable guide will show us its beautiful architecture and gardens and tell us about its history and significance. We will end our day at a heritage property in Agra, where we will admire the architectural beauty of India’s colonial past. We will also watch a puppet show that showcases India’s rich culture and folklore through colourful puppets and music.

Meals:   B | – | –
Accommodation:  Grand Imperial

Meals:   B | – | –
Accommodation:  Chambal Safari Lodge

In the old part of Lucknow, we will stroll through narrow streets and witness artisans practising different types of embroidery such as Chikan, Zardozi, and Aari. These intricate patterns adorn clothes and fabrics. We will also witness block printing that uses wooden stamps to create colourful designs, metal crafts that shape brass and copper into utensils and ornaments, perfumeries that use local rose petals to make fragrant attars, and costume jewellery making that creates dazzling accessories with beads and stones. We can sample local specialities that range from sweet to savory whenever we feel like it.

As guests of the royal family of Mahmudabad, who live in a splendid palace an hour away from Lucknow, we will have the opportunity to visit one of their projects empowering local women who make beautiful embroidered materials using traditional techniques. We will hear their stories and skills and have an opportunity to buy unique souvenirs supporting their livelihoods.

Meals:   B | L(1) | –
Accommodation:  Radisson

The fragrance of incense and the smoke-filled air provide a unique sensory experience that is exclusive to Varanasi, leaving an indelible impression on guests, who often return to relive the experience. The markets of Varanasi are filled with colourful items such as silk sarees, wooden toys, brassware, and beads. We will visit the weaver’s village to observe the making of the famous Banarasi silk sarees with their intricate brocade work.

Meals:   B | – | –
Accommodation:  TBA

Meals:   B | – | –
Accommodation:  TBA

Our ‘AIDJ Varanasi’ Tour has come to an end, and we hope you enjoyed the journey with us. It brings us great pleasure to have introduced you to the peaceful and delightful experiences of Central India. We appreciate your participation in promoting the value of handmade crafts and textiles in India. Your airport transfer service and assistance at the Delhi International Airport are included in the package for those heading home today. We eagerly await the opportunity to provide you with another exciting AIDJ + ATI Travel NZ experience. Thank you for travelling with us. Namaste!

Meals:   B | – | –
Accommodation:  TBA

Prices are per person, based on twin-share
Package Price for 18 days: NZ$10860 per person on a twin share basis
A mandatory tipping fee applies for a group of 9 or less: NZ$200 per person
Single Supplement: NZ$2925 Per Person