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 Our annual India Holi Festival gay tour is a royal journey through Rajasthan. India—and especially the province of Rajasthan—is chaotic and colourful. While the country is laden with lavishness, it can also exasperate and confound the unprepared traveller. This all-gay tour of India fills a decadent 12 days with a 7th Wonder of the World, the Pink City of Jaipur and huge clouds of colour that define the world-famous Holi Festival. Please stand by for fiery feasts, local accommodations and a truly unique culture.
• Celebrate Holi, the Festival of Colour!
• Witness the lighting of the Holika (huge bonfire) on the eve of Holi at Udaipur’s City Palace
• Marvel at (and photograph) the Taj Mahal twice: in the afternoon and again at sunrise
• Appreciate India’s glorious architecture including India Gate, Agra Fort, Chand Baori and Mehrangarh Fort
• Discover the madness of India’s famous bazaars
• Learn about Rajasthan’s sweeping history during walking tours of Delhi, Jaipur and Jodhpur
• Enjoy a slew of Indian and Rajasthani dinners
• Learn about, and visit with, the region’s nomadic Bishnoi tribes
Day 1
Namaste! Welcome to New Delhi. Rebuilt seven times over the centuries, today Delhi marries modern hustle with historic highlights. After clearing customs and immigration at DEL Airport, an Out Adventures rep will transport you to our hotel, where a traditional Indian welcome awaits. We’ll have a kickoff meeting this evening at 5PM, followed by a decadent Welcome Dinner.
Hotel: The Leela Palace New Delhi Hotel, Delhi
Day 2
For the first full day of our tour we’ll begin in Old Delhi with a visit to Jama Mosque. One of the world’s most beautiful Muslim temples, it was built by Shah Jahan in 1656. We’ll enjoy a walking tour as well as briefly drive past Red Fort. With our appetites revved up, a traditional Kashmiri lunch awaits, then we’ll hit up Humayun’s Tomb in New Delhi before enjoying another walking tour. We’ll be sure to swing by Presidential Palace (Rashtrapati Bhawan) and India Gate (this war memorial honours 90,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives in WWI). This evening we meet with a prominent journalist and LGBT activist at the hotel, then he joins us for an optional dinner.
Hotel: The Leela Palace New Delhi Hotel, Delhi
Day 3
The day kicks off with a 4.5-hour drive to Agra, the second capital of the Mughal Empire. After checking-in and grabbing a bite, we’re off to Agra Fort, an imposing structure nearly two miles long. Featuring palaces, audience halls and mosques within, it flaunts both Islamic and Hindu architecture. Today’s final stop is the world’s ultimate tribute to love. Lacy white and mesmerizing, the Taj Mahal was built by the Shah Jahan for Mumtaz Mahal, his favourite wife. Tonight we head out for an included Indian dinner!
Hotel: ITC Mughal, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa , Agra
Day 4
So magical is the Taj Mahal we’ll return to view it this morning as the sun rises. After breakfast and checking out, we’ll drive to Jaipur stopping along the way for lunch and an incredible photo opportunity at Chand Baori, the largest stepwell in the world. It was originally built in honour of the Goddess of Joy and Happiness. This evening we’ll enjoy a group dinner at the hotel followed by free time to explore.
Hotel: The Leela Palace Grand Villa Jaipur Hotel, Jaipur
Day 5
Enjoy a full day in the Pink City of Jaipur (the rosy glow arose thanks to a visit from King Edward VII in 1876 – almost all of the city was freshened up with a coat of paint). We’ll take a guided tour this morning, visiting City Palace where we’ll even get to enter the royal family’s private chambers. Other stops can include the city’s Observatory as well as Hawa Maha and the Johari Bazar. This evening we discover the city’s main attraction: Amer Fort. Overlooking Maoto Lake, the fort is famed for its decorative Hindu style and immaculate landscaping. We’ll arrive at dusk to ensure epic photos of the structure lit up. After we’ve explored the landmark we head off for a delicious al fresco dinner.
Hotel: The Leela Palace Grand Villa Jaipur Hotel, Jaipur
Day 6
Enjoy a leisurely morning before we depart the hotel to visit the stunning Nahargarh & Jaigarh Forts nestled atop the Aravalli range. From here, cast your view on the city below, and imagine yourself as a Maharaja centuries ago. We’ll return to the hotel in time for an optional lunch and free time. This is a great opportunity to get some shopping done in the city. Early this evening we’ll have dinner at the hotel and rest up for our long journey tomorrow morning.
Hotel: The Leela Palace Grand Villa Jaipur Hotel, Jaipur
Day 7
Today we journey to Jodhpur, about an 8-hour drive away. After checking in to our 5-star hotel, you’ll have some time to relax before dinner at the hotel.
Hotel: Taj Hari Mahal Hotel, Jodhpur
Day 8
A full day of sightseeing awaits, beginning with a visit to the royal cenotaphs (tombs) and Jaswant Thada, a memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, on the banks of a nearby lake. To wrap up the morning we visit the majestic Mehrangarh fort, where we’ll enjoy an optional lunch after the tour. We’ll have a bit of free time at the hotel before driving approximately one hour to Rohet where we’ll learn more about the Bishnoi tribes on a village safari, even visiting their homes and partaking in their customs. Dubbed the ‘Premier ecologists of the world’, the Bishnoi have protected nature for more than 500 years, and have ensured the survival of species like the Black Buck antelope. We’ll enjoy an exclusive and private dinner tonight in the dunes, with local folklore to accompany the night’s sky.
Hotel: Taj Hari Mahal Hotel, Jodhpur
Day 9
Today we journey to Narlai, just 3 hours away. This afternoon you are free to enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this tranquil village. Tonight we are treated like royalty as we visit an ancient stepwell and feast on a lavish dinner, surrounded by the twinkling lights of lamps and the stars above us.
Hotel: Rawla Narlai Luxury Heritage Hotel , Narlai
Day 10
We’re off to Udaipur, with a visit to Ranakpur Jain Temple en route. This massive monument on the Magai River was built between the late-14th and mid-15th century AD. It has over 1444 marble pillars—carved in exquisite detail—with no two pillars the same. We’ll have an included lunch, then continue to our hotel on the outskirts of Udaipur (a former palace) where we’ll check in and get ready for tonight when we’ll bear witness to the Holika Dahan, a bonfire ceremony that represents the triumph of good over evil. Dinner will follow tonight—at the palace, no less.
PLEASE NOTE: On occasion the local authorities in Udaipur change the dates for Holika Dahan and Holi. In this event the itinerary will be adjusted to fit with the new dates.
Hotel: Aurika Udaipur – Luxury by Lemon Tree Hotels, Udaipur
Day 11
Today is the highlight of our holiday: Holi, the festival of colour! We celebrate the festival at a local Indian family’s private home. Lunch will be served before we let loose—Holi is a free-for-all where participants run around and shower each other with coloured powders and water. After this unicorn of a battle is over, we’ll unwind poolside at the hotel before enjoying an incredible Farewell Dinner.
Hotel: Aurika Udaipur – Luxury by Lemon Tree Hotels, Udaipur
Day 12
Today is our final day and we wish everyone safe travels home. From the whole Out Adventures team, we’d like to extend a royal thank you for joining us in India. Your local guide will help arrange your included departure transfer to the airport. Safe journey!
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• Arrival & departure transfers to/from joining/finishing point hotel
• 4-Star Hotels (4 nights), 5-Star Hotels (6 nights)
• Breakfast daily, 4 Lunches and 10 Dinners
• Air-conditioned transportation
• Gratuities for tour leaders, drivers, hotel staff and included meals
• Village safari by jeep in Rohetgarh
• Entrance fees to monuments mentioned
• Holi Festival celebrations in Udaipur
• Bottled water, soft drinks and wet wipes on bus
• Basic porterage at hotels & airports
• A donation to an LGBTQ+ charity in India
• A $50 USD Rainbow Railroad donation to help resettle LGBTQ+ refugees.
• International Airfare
• Meals & Activities not mentioned
• Gratuities for Group Leader (budget approximately $150 – $240 USD)
• Travel insurance is mandatory for all travellers.
• Alcoholic beverages during meals
• Camera/Video Fees at the monuments
• All items of a personal nature (laundry, drinks, etc.)
• Visa fees
India Visa
A visa is required for most nationalities, and can be obtained online. There may be exceptions, and all visas are the responsibility of the traveller.
Culture Shock
India is unlike any country we know (and we know many). The poverty and pollution can be overwhelming, but so can the beauty and opulence. You can count on friendly locals, but we ask that you in turn respect local customs when visiting sacred sites (we’ll prime you in advance). Since most meals will be at hotels and tourist-style restaurants, please rest assured proper hygiene will be practiced.
Local LGBT Scene
India generally condemns homosexuality. For this reason, it’s wise to avoid public displays of affection, for the safety of yourself and fellow travellers.
Weather
During February/March the days are normally warm to hot and the nights are often mild. Daytime temperatures can be expected to be around 27C/80F, with evening lows around 16C/61F. Humidity is usually low and little or no rain can be expected.
Required Vaccinations
Based on entry requirements, no vaccinations are needed for entry unless your home country, or a country you are travelling to before or after this tour, has restrictions in place. To determine if you should take preventative measures to reduce the risk of illness, consult with your doctor or a travel medical clinic. We cannot provide vaccination recommendations.
Electricity
You will need an international travel plug/adapter for type D/G sockets.
Connectivity
All of our hotels will have Wi-Fi access, so feel free to tweet, pin, post, and generally be the envy of your friends and family back home.
Travel Insurance
For everybody’s peace of mind, medical travel insurance is required on all Out Adventures tours. At a minimum, your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident, death, medical expenses, emergency repatriation and personal liability, with a minimum medical coverage of US $200,000.
Meals
To keep things flexible, not all meals are included in the trip price. While we typically dine together so everybody can taste everything, feel free to explore restaurants on your own…your guide will always have solid recommendations.
Money
Local currency is the Indian Rupee, with USD widely accepted. While credit cards are accepted at most upscale restaurants and hotels, we recommend carrying local currency for little purchases. We also recommend carrying about $400 USD, only to be used in an emergency, or if your credit/ATM cards are placed on hold.
Tipping
If you are happy with services throughout your trip, a tip is recommended. Details will be provided in your final trip documentation, though we recommend budgeting about $150 USD.
What to bring
Our adventures entail carrying your own luggage on occasion. And while you’ll never schlep far, things can quickly get costlier than a celebrity breakup if you don’t keep your baggage under 20kg/44lb thanks to costly surcharges on domestic flights. You should also bring something smaller for day trips to carry water, your camera, and any souvenirs you find along the way.
Optional Activities
Every Out Adventure offers optional excursions that are not included in price of this trip. Please see the daily itinerary in your final pre-trip packet to learn what’s available.
How We Travel
Out Adventures is all about good times with likeminded guys. Whatever’s on the itinerary – from fireside camping to five-star decadence – our goal is to make the experience magical. We’re also committed to supporting the communities we visit by hiring local guides, staying at locally-owned accommodations when possible, and celebrating local cuisine. It all adds up to a great way to immerse yourself in the culture.
Your Guide
All Out Adventures are led by a gay (or gay-welcoming) guide. Whenever possible, we hire destination locals. And we can also connect you with the right people if you’d like to delve deeper into the local culture. If you’re pleased with your guide, we recommend a tip of US $5-10 per person, per day…they’ll certainly appreciate it!
Flying Solo
If you’ve never travelled on your own, it’s an amazing way to get to know yourself while making new friends along the way. We can arrange for you to share a room with people in your age range at no charge, or you can pay a supplement for your own room. If there’s an odd number of solos, we’ll rotate a single room on a random basis.
Important Note On Markets
Indian markets and bazaars are a whirlwind adventure in themselves.
Please note, shop owners use high-pressure sales tactics and the unprepared traveller can often feel overwhelmed. If you choose to visit a market, it’s best to put your ‘Go with the Flow’ pants on and have fun with it.
Important Note On Accommodations
Like the country itself, Indian hotels and accommodations vary from absolute opulence and lavishness to cozy and historical. This Out Adventure uses a range of hotels that reflect this variance. In Delhi for example, we stay at one of the country’s finest hotels we’re aware of. Meanwhile the bulk of the tour features 4-Star Hotels (which may feel more like an American 3-Star) as well as Local Accommodations (Unique residential buildings that have been converted into hotels and B&Bs).
Please Note: Local Accommodations offer an unsterilized, authentic look into the India. Travellers should expect properties that seem stuck in time, but offer plenty of charm and character.
Starting Point Hotel
The Leela Palace New Delhi Hotel, Delhi
Located in New Delhi's Diplomatic Enclave, The Leela Palace New Delhi is a blend of Lutyen's architecture and the royal Indian culture. A pampering spa, 4 dining options and free parking are available. It is 10 km from popular landmarks such as Red Fort, Lotus Temple and shopping hubs such as Chandni Chowk and Connaught Place and 2.5 km from Embassy of the United States of America.
The Leela Palace New Delhi is less than 10 minutes' drive from the India Gate. Indira Gandhi International Airport is 15 km while the Domestic airport is 13 km.
Elegantly decorated, air-conditioned rooms feature a high-definition flat-screen TV with a DVD player, floor-to-ceiling windows and wooden furnishings. A 2nd flat-screen TV in the bathroom is a mirror when turned off.
The exclusive Spa at The Leela offers an Ayurveda inspired day spa menu created for both women and men while rooftop temperature-controlled swimming pool offers the panoramic views of the city's skyline. Guests can also approach the 24-hour front desk to rent a computer or a car.
Finishing Point Hotel
Aurika Udaipur – Luxury by Lemon Tree Hotels, Udaipur
In the heart of the City of Lakes, sitting atop its own hill, is the majestic Aurika, Udaipur. Spread across 5 acres of undulating hilltop, this resort is one of the best upscale hotels in Udaipur. As you arrive through the Bastion Gate, aptly titled Antara (meaning “to pause”), you can stop and breathe in the enchanting air that surrounds the resort.
While walking through the resort, with its grand courtyards, terraced gardens, and richly gilded interiors, you will feel like you have stepped back a few centuries in time. Located just 40 minutes from Udaipur’s Maharana Pratap Airport, the hotel is near the city’s main attractions, like Lake Fateh Sagar, Lake Pichola, Sajjangarh Palace and City Palace.
The 139 aesthetically designed rooms and suites offer modern amenities and facilities, including high speed WiFi, spacious bathrooms, a Smart TV and a high-tech entertainment platform, as well as unparalleled views of the picturesque city. Aurika, Udaipur features some of the most extensive fine dining and banqueting options in Udaipur, including an exquisite multi cuisine restaurant, Mirasa and a stylish bar, Ariva. There are many unique banquet and conference halls, as well as exclusive venues for private dining experiences, including a ballroom, a meeting room and multiple outdoor terraces.
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