Holi holiday in India. Expedition from the ocean to Rajasthan.
15 DAYS
19 PEOPLE
2790 EURO
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Invitation to an Authentic Eastern Experience: Ethno-Diving into the Most Fascinating and Diverse Corners of India.
This two-week route is a grand triangle, connected by flights, trains, boats, and rickshaws.
From the western coast—with its Ayurvedic spas and kayaking in the jungle at dawn—we travel to the heart of the country, where we will witness the end of life by fire in Varanasi and the beginning of life in the temples of the Kama Sutra.
We will experience the romance of Indian Railways, and then find ourselves in the north, wandering through the colorful streets and markets of Rajasthan.
We will enjoy the Taj Mahal at sunset and sunrise.
The culmination of the expedition will be celebrating Holi—the most vibrant and significant event in the Hindu calendar.
So, are you ready for a full Shantaram experience?
МАРШРУТНИЙ ПЛАН
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airport transfers (if you arrive and depart on the dates exactly in accordance with our travel program);
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Accommodation: most nights in cozy 4-star hotels, a few atmospheric 3-star locations, and a few stops at the best 5-star hotels.*
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Meals: all breakfasts and several lunches/dinners;
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All local transportation along the expedition route (air, train, boat, rickshaw);
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all entrance fees, activities and excursions according to the program;
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Ayurvedic massage in Kerala;
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access to the balcony for photographers at the Banke Bihari temple during Holi celebrations;
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support by the author of the itinerary from Paganel Studio.
PROGRAM
Day 1
02.03.2025
Morning arrival at Trivandrum International Airport. Border and customs formalities. Transfer and check-in at the hotel.
If you would like to spend more time by the ocean, plan to arrive on March 1st or 2nd.
Our expedition begins in the state of Kerala – the birthplace of Ayurveda. So, after our long journey, we will enjoy a range of spa treatments provided by professionals.
Another must-see for the day is the lighthouse at Varkala Beach. We will climb the spiral stairs to the top, where a picturesque view of the coastline awaits us. Afterward, we will embark on a sunset boat ride with stops for swimming in the warm ocean.
Day 2
03.03.2025
We rise early, have breakfast, and take the morning train to Alappuzha.
As we pass by lush tea plantations and coconut groves, we can observe the locals starting their day: women in colorful saris carrying baskets of fruit on their heads or engaged in washing, while men call out to customers at their stalls, rickshaws, or boats.
Alappuzha, known for its canals and waterways, is often called the Venice of India.
We will embark on a ferry for a river cruise through the Alleppey backwaters. A captivating landscape of floating cottages, rice paddies, and towering coconut trees leaning over the water will unfold around us.
During the cruise, we will stop at a local village to enjoy a lunch of Kerala delicacies. By the way, eating here is traditionally done with your hands.
After lunch, we will return to the ferry to continue our journey through the Alleppey backwaters.
Accommodation will be in a lakeside hotel.
As the sun sets, we will gather for a traditional “Paganel Meet and Greet” evening, with the distribution of expedition T-shirts and badges.
Dinner with live music follows. Relaxation.
Day 3
04.03.2025
Early morning wake-up.
As darkness yields to the soft rays of the morning sun, we set off for a kayaking adventure, navigating through the winding and serene canals.
We will see a variety of local birds—from colorful kingfishers to majestic white egrets.
During the kayaking trip, we will stop at a rice plantation to observe how local farmers tend to their crops. Here, we can learn about traditional rice cultivation methods and the importance of this crop in local life.
We will also visit a local village, discuss daily life and customs with its residents, and sample some coconut toddy.
Transfer by bus to Kochi. Check-in at the hotel.
We will visit a Kathakali dance and mime theater performance.
Kathakali originated in Kerala around the 15th century and is noted for its unique combination of intricate dance, dramatic acting, and live music.
Performers wear elaborate costumes adorned with intricate details and lush makeup, transforming them into characters of divine heroes, goddesses, and demons.
Each movement, each gesture, even facial expressions—all have meaning and tell a story that captivates the audience without the need for words.
We will conclude the evening at a restaurant with live music.
Day 4
05.03.2025
For those interested, we can rise early again to stroll along the morning promenade before transferring to the airport. At this time, we can watch local fishermen operating Chinese fishing nets—large, spider-like contraptions that slowly lower into the water to catch fish.
Breakfast. Transfer to the airport.
In about 4 hours, we will arrive in the City of Light, the City of the Dead, one of the oldest cities in the world—Varanasi. Here, we will get to know the authentic, non-touristy India!
We will check in at a hotel near the sacred Ganges River and set off for a walk through the streets of Varanasi.
We will experience a genuine journey through time, where every step immerses us in the culture and history of one of the oldest cities in the world. Narrow, winding streets, ancient temples, Brahmins and Dalits—this is the true India.
After sunset, we will board a boat on the Ganges to the banks where funeral pyres are burning day and night—symbols of farewell to the physical world and honoring the soul.
These rites are part of a profound spiritual practice, rooted in the Hindu belief that cremation on the banks of the Ganges helps the soul escape the cycle of rebirth and achieve moksha—liberation.
Upon disembarking, we will witness a cremation—the main ritual in the life of every Hindu.
Return to the hotel. Rest.
Day 5
06.03.2025
At dawn, we board the boat once more and head to the main ghat square—where the Aarti ceremony takes place daily. This sacred ritual involves priests in traditional attire performing magical rites in honor of the gods, lighting candles and holding flaming lamps that reflect on the water.
The Aarti ceremony symbolizes the greeting of the new day and the farewell to the one that has passed. It provides a sense of tranquility, reminding us of the beauty of life and the value of each day.
Return to the hotel. Breakfast.
The Golden Temple of Shiva, or Kinaras Vishwanath, is one of the most significant shrines in India, located in Varanasi.
This place merges faith, tradition, and culture. The temple is dedicated to Shiva—the city's favorite deity, known as the transformer.
The architecture of the golden shrine impresses with its beauty. Tall spires covered in gold gleam in the sun. As you enter, you are greeted by the sounds of prayers, the aroma of fresh flowers, and the smoke emanating from lamps and idols. Numerous pilgrims perform rituals, offering milk, honey, flowers, fruits, and other gifts to the deities.
After the temple, we will visit the evening Aarti ceremony once again.
Dinner. Return to the hotel. Rest.
Day 6
07.03.2025
We wake up, have breakfast and rush to the airport. Flight to Khajuraho.
The complex of Kama Sutra temples is waiting for us.
This architectural ensemble, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, reflects not only the skill of its builders but also deep philosophical and spiritual concepts intertwined in Indian art.
We will enter a world where every element—from the entrance gates to the roofs—tells its own story. Each temple is dedicated to a specific deity and features unique narrative scenes.
These sculptures represent the concept of the Kama Sutra not only as a guide to erotica but also as a philosophy encompassing all aspects of human relationships. Walking here provides an opportunity to view the history of love, beauty, and harmony in human relations through the lens of ancient Indian wisdom.
A memorable part of the visit will be the surrounding nature—green gardens and trees encircling the temples create an idyllic atmosphere for contemplation and meditation. It is the perfect time to reflect on modern relationships and understand the importance of balancing spirituality with physical and emotional closeness.
We will have Mehndi, or henna painting, for all those interested.
After the henna application, it is important to let it dry. This can take from 30 minutes to several hours. The longer the henna stays on the skin, the darker and more intense the design will be.
Today we have one more flight ahead of us. We head to the airport and transfer to New Delhi.
Transfer and check-in to the hotel for 2 nights.
Day 7
08.03.2025
Today we can sleep in a bit longer. We will take our time getting ready, have breakfast, and head to the main shopping street of the Indian capital.
Main Bazaar is the place for those who want to experience the authentic vibe of Delhi, try street food, and shop without the tourist markups.
The lively atmosphere of India surrounds you: the sounds of trading, the aromas of spices and samosas, crowds of people walking between stalls, cows munching on garbage, rickshaws weaving through it all…
Once accustomed to this chaos, you can check out the shops. Main Bazaar boasts a wide range of goods—from traditional clothing, jewelry, textiles to souvenirs and home decor.
Remember the importance of bargaining. It is part of the shopping culture in India. You can always try to lower the price or get a better deal, adding some fun and adrenaline to your experience.
After getting tired of the bazaar’s hustle and bustle, we will head to India Gate—a memorial honoring Indian soldiers who died in World War 1.
Cozy alleys surround the park around India Gate, and conveniently placed benches invite you to sit and enjoy the view of the colossal arch, which is illuminated at night, creating a romantic atmosphere.
Return to the hotel. Rest.
Day 8
09.03.2025
We have breakfast and go to the airport again. Flight to Jaisalmer.
After reaching Jaisalmer, we continue our journey deep into the golden sands of the Thar Desert!
In 40 km from Jaisalmer, the landscape turns from a semi-desert into a real sandy desert with dunes where your feet sink to the ankles. The sand is very pleasant to the touch, silky
We will spend the sunset in the middle of the dunes. Afterwards, we will have a delicious Rajasthani dinner, as well as traditional folk dances and music.
Dress warmly - at night, and especially in the morning, it is very cold in the desert!
After dinner, we will admire the starry sky in the desert. This is an incredible sight that will take your breath away. The absence of light pollution allows you to see even the smallest celestial bodies. The stars look closer, and the moon, if it is in the sky, adds even more magic to this atmosphere.
An ideal time for reflection, communication with nature, or simply enjoying the beauty of the universe.
Rest in a comfortable tent.
Day 9
10.03.2025
We wake up early in the morning before sunrise. We will have a dawn ride on camels.
Dawn in the desert is as impressive as the sunset. Here is the red disk of the sun rising above the horizon, and the dunes flash with bright golden light. And the best part is that it gets warm!
We have breakfast, pack our things and return to Jaisalmer.
Jaisalmer, located in the heart of the Thar Desert on the border with Pakistan, was named the “Golden City” due to the distinctive yellow color of its houses and fortress walls made of yellow sandstone.
This exotic gem has become an important point on the routes of camel caravans that have been passing through here for centuries.
Through the market rows and nooks of the old town we will go up to the Jaisalmer Fort (Sona Kila), one of the largest fortresses in the world.
The fort was built in 1156 by the ruler Pao Jaisal. It consists of 99 bastions, 92 of which were built between 1633 and 1647. The height of the fortress walls is 9.1 meters. The palaces of the rulers of Jaisalmer are located on the top of the hill behind the main entrance.
Jaisalmer Fort is one of the few forts that even 1000 years after its foundation has not turned into a lifeless museum, but continues to serve as a home and shelter for the townspeople. Today, more than 2 thousand people live inside the fort.
In addition, inside the fortress there are havelis - traditional merchant houses, as well as 7 ancient Jain temples and the Maharajas' palace.
These sandstone buildings are decorated with exquisite carvings, famous for their elegance and weightlessness. Sandstone lends itself perfectly to processing, and it seems that all these openwork ornaments are carved from wood, not stone.
After taking a few dozen photos and tens of thousands of steps, we check into the hotel. Rest.
Day 10
11.03.2025
This day promises to be as full as the previous one. We wake up, have breakfast, and rush to the morning train to Jaipur.
We check-in at the hotel, where we will spend the next two nights.
After lunch, we will visit the Monkey Temple in Jaipur, also known as Galtaji Temple. This is not only an important religious site but also a unique place where you can interact closely with monkeys.
When feeding the monkeys, it is important to remember a few rules: do not get too close to them and be cautious with your personal belongings, as monkeys are often curious and may try to take items that catch their interest.
After enjoying the monkeys, we will head to our final destination for the day.
Nahargarh Fort was built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, as a defense for the city and his residence. The name “Nahargarh” translates to “City of Leopards.”
The fort offers stunning panoramic views of the city, and when the lights come on at night, Nahargarh takes on a special charm and beauty.
We will order a large thermos of spicy masala from a local café and, sitting on the fort’s walls, watch as the sun slowly sets behind the horizon of the Pink City.
Return to the hotel. Rest.
Day 11
12.03.2025
This morning, we can sleep in a bit longer and take it slow. We will dedicate the first part of the day to shopping. Have breakfast and head to local shops in search of the most beautiful saris, dhotis, and kurtas.
We will put on our new outfits and take stunning photos in the heart of the Pink City.
The City Palace in Jaipur is a complex of buildings, structures, and gardens, some of which are now open to tourists and used as museums and galleries. Its private section still serves as the home of the last ruling royal family.
The palace combines elements of Indian, Turkish, and European styles—elegant spires, luxurious balconies, and colorful stained glass. Make sure to capture moments as you pass by elegant inner courtyards with fountains and greenery.
Time to move on.
Our next stop is the Chokhi Dhani ethnic village. Here, we will experience a blend of authentic culture, traditions, folklore, and Rajasthani cuisine.
It is time to taste various traditional dishes and enjoy an incredible fire dance performance.
After a day full of impressions, we will return to the hotel and relax.
Day 12
13.03.2025
Today brings a new day and a new journey. We wake up early, have breakfast, check out of the hotel, and head to the train station. We have a few hours ahead on a train to Agra.
Upon arrival in Agra, we check into the hotel, freshen up, and change into traditional Indian attire for our visit to the Agra Fort.
Agra Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The fortress walls stretch for 2.4 km, constructed primarily from red sandstone with marble additions. During Shah Jahan’s rule, much of the interior used white marble, adorned with intricate patterns of gold and precious stones. Notably, the entire fort, when it is viewed from above, is shaped like a crescent moon.
The fort was once deemed impregnable due to the dense jungle with aggressive wildlife, such as tigers, and a crocodile-infested moat surrounding its outer walls.
Agra Fort is less than an hour’s drive from the famous Taj Mahal.
We will watch the sunset in the picturesque garden behind the Taj Mahal, known as Yamuna Bagh. As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in vivid shades of orange, pink, and purple, we will witness the stunning reflection of these colors in the Yamuna River, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.
At this moment, the Taj Mahal appears even more majestic: its marble walls glow with the warmth of the setting sun. We will take many beautiful photos to remember this beauty.
Return to the hotel and rest.
Day 13
14.03.2025
Today, we will experience what brings hundreds of thousands of tourists to India each year. We rise with the sun and head to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
The Taj Mahal is a mausoleum-mosque built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
The Taj Mahal is one of the most symmetrical structures in the world. Its minarets, walls, rooms, and even gardens are perfectly identical, except for the tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal.
The Taj changes color three times a day: white in bright daylight, pink at dawn, and silver under the moonlight.
After capturing these wonderful moments in our memories and taking countless photos, we continue our journey to new discoveries.
WE return to the hotel, have breakfast, check out, and take the train to Mathura.
Upon arrival, we will hire a rickshaw and head to Vrindavan, located 15 km away.
A motor-rickshaw, or tuk-tuk, is a fun way to travel and allows you to enjoy the atmosphere of real India.
Arriving in Vrindavan, we will visit an ashram where we will spend the night. Rest and, if you desire, take an evening stroll around Vrindavan.
Day 14
15.03.2025
Today, we will be part of one of the most vibrant and joyous festivals in India, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of spring—Holi.
We wake up, have breakfast, and we put on white clothes, which we will later throw away without regret. It is also a good idea to apply cream or oil to your skin to make it easier to wash off the colors, and to place your phones in waterproof covers.
When you search for “Holi,” you will likely find photos of synchronized color throws at festivals in the U.S. or Europe. But today, it will be the real deal.
Let us dive in and have fun!
Colors will be everywhere! You will be showered with colors from around corners, from windows, and even directly in your face. From higher floors, colored water or just plain water will be poured down.
We relax, let go of all inhibitions, and fully immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere. You will be painted, and you will paint others! Smile and greet everyone with festive cheer!
Along with the crowd, we will head to the main Banke Bihari Temple, where the Holi celebrations reach their peak. We will ascend to the second level, where reserved seats await us. This is where the most impressive photos are taken.
We return to the hotel to clean up and restore our appearance, as foreigners and guests are called here—sagibs.
Day 15
16.03.2025
Breakfast. Transfer to New Delhi, from where we fly home (flights from New Delhi depart no earlier than 15:00).
Two weeks in India have passed like a flash.
The Paganelli expedition is over, but we don't say “Goodbye”, we say “See you soon!”.
WHY WITH PAGANEL?
We are unique
For many years, we have been traveling the world to our small planet's most remote and unusual places. We do not use the services of domestic travel agencies. The trips we invent and carry out are always unique and have their unique zest, charm, and adventurous spirit.
Creation
The first thing that interests us is creativity in everything. During the expeditions, we shoot a lot of videos, take pictures, write stories, draw pictures. If you are interested in a creative approach to life and travel, then WELCOME... we are very happy to meet you!
Interest
By joining our team, you join a kind of club family, which already consists of several hundred people who are interested in discovering the world with us.
Since most of the expenses for organizing a trip – air tickets and travel documents for other modes of transportation, accommodation, excursions, services of local companies and guides, etc. – are made by us in advance, long before the trip, the prepayment or payment for the trip is non-refundable in the event of cancellation.
Since most of the expenses for the organization of the trip are air tickets and travel documents for other types of transport, accommodation, excursions, services of local companies and guides, etc. are not refundable in case of your cancellation of the trip. We simply have no way to return it.
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