India through the Eyes of Women
w/ Diwali Festival
Discover the diverse appeal of India’s great cities: Delhi, Jaipur and Mumbai. Watch the sun rise over the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal. Find out why Jaipur is known as the Pink City. Celebrate Diwali, the annual Festival of Light. This is the India that awaits, full of color and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Learn more about the history and culture of the world's most populous country. This tour includes many hands-on experiences such as a folk-art workshop, a painting workshop and even learning a few Bollywood dance steps. From captivating tales of hiding behind veils to inspiring stories of women empowerment, India will fascinate.
India through the Eyes of Women
October 24 - November 2, 2027Highlights
- Explore the great cities of Delhi, Jaipur and Mumbai
- View the Taj Mahal at Sunrise
- Celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights
- Learn to Dance Bollywood-style
- Let your Senses be Wowed
- Time to explore personal interests
- Suggestions for things to see and do
- And More... See itinerary for details
Activity
Read more about WTT Activity Levels
- 10% Easy
- 70% Moderate (multiple walking tours, cobblestone and uneven surfaces, crowding, hot weather, dry and dusty conditions)
- 20% Strenuous (stairs at museums, underdeveloped infrastructure, driving distances, time change)
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
Itinerary
Sunday, 24 October 2027: Arrive Delhi, India
Schedule your arrival into Delhi at your convenience. Several grouped transfers are provided from the airport to the hotel. As most flights arrive late evening, there are no organized activities planned for this day. The tour officially begins the morning of day 2 over breakfast. Overnight Delhi - 3 nights
Monday, 25 October 2027: Welcome Meeting; New Delhi City Tour; Sikh Temple (B,D)
We begin early with our official Welcome Meeting as we enjoy breakfast at our hotel. Be ready to depart directly after for a full-day guided tour of Delhi. Our tour begins with a storytelling walk through the Nizamuddin Basti neighborhood. Meet inspiring women and hear stories of how they broke barriers by pursuing education, careers and leadership roles. We visit Humayan's Tomb which honors India's second Mughal Emperor, Humayan. Built in 1570 by his widow, the tomb was the first garden tomb on the Indian subcontinent and is still one of Asia's finest today. This afternoon we continue with a visit to Gurudwara, a Sikh Temple, to admire the beautiful architecture and witness the devotion of the Sikh community while observing their unique rituals and traditions at this sacred site. Please note: When visiting Gurudwara, it's important to wear modest clothing that will cover your arms and legs. You will also want a have a scarf on hand to cover your head. We'll enjoy dinner together tonight at a local restaurant.
Tuesday, 26 October 2027: Old Delhi; Chandni Chowk Bazaar; India Gate; Local Market (B)
Today we'll embark on a journey through the vibrant streets of Old Delhi, learning more about the tales of women from the Mughal Empire era. The Mughals were a Muslim dynasty that once ruled over the majority Hindu population and were one of the longest-reigning dynasties in India, before the colonization by the British. We'll visit the bustling Chandni Chowk (Moonlight Square) market designed by Jahanara, the daughter of Shah Jahan, and explore this historic square by rickshaw. We'll meander down narrow streets past one of Asia's largest spice market, to awaken our senses with its colors and aromas. We continue with a drive through the posh neighborhood of Lutyens with a stop at India Gate, a World War I Memorial dedicated to the 70,000 Indians who died while serving in the British Army. With a visit to Gandhi Smriti, we learn about the philosophy of Mahatma Ghandi plus the role of women in India's freedom movement. In the afternoon, we visit Shahpur Jat, a unique market that has become the go-to destination for wedding planners and is known for its artistic studios and boutiques. Some tailors here are known as the best in the world. After a relaxing cafe stop, we return to our hotel late this afternoon.
Wednesday, 27 October 2027: Travel to Agra; Fort & Gardens Tour; High-Tea with a Local Family (B,O)
Agra was once the capital city of the might Mughals and much of its majesty can be attributed to the vision and power of Akbar the Great and his grandson Shan Jahan. It is our destination today and the scenic drive through the countryside takes about 4 hours. Upon arrival, we'll enjoy a guided tour of Agra Fort. This UNESCO World Heritage site was built in 1565 with red sandstone and marble and is a stunning example of architecture from the Mughal era. The sprawling complex has a collection of exquisite palaces, courtyards, gardens, pavilions and mosques. Each ruler who called this home left his unique touch. Late this afternoon we are treated to tea with a local family. The rest of the evening is yours to relax as you wish at the hotel. Overnight Agra - 1 night
Thursday, 28 October 2027: Sunrise Tour of the Taj Mahal; Travel to Jaipur (B,D)
We're up very early this day. Considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the incomparable Taj Mahal is extraordinary in the first light of day. Watch the sun come up at this outstanding monument. The early morning light showcases its exemplary beauty and creates an unforgettable memory. This architectural masterpiece, made from white marble, was built to enshrine the remains of Queen Mumtaz Mahal. We'll then return to the hotel for a late breakfast before continuing on to the "Pink City" of Jaipur, one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of India. In contrast to other Indian cities, Jaipur was built with a plan. It was designed with broad avenues in perfectly straight lines with cross-cutting streets and is home to fascinating bazaars and marvelous palaces. This is a long, 6-hour drive, so after arriving at our hotel, we'll enjoy dinner together. Overnight Jaipur - 3 nights
Friday, 29 October 2027: Craft Markets Walking Tour; Free Time; Diwali Celebration with Local Family (B,D)
Jaipur offers a dazzling immersion into the riches of India. Since its foundation, the royal families and nobles of Jaipur patronized market craftsmen and artisans. We enjoy a walking tour of the local bazaars and learn more about the rich artistic traditions of the Pink City. The variety of trades found at the markets is mind-boggling. The afternoon is free to explore further or relax at the hotel. We regroup for a special evening as we join a local family to learn the traditions of readying a home for Diwali, the festival that symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, new beginnings, and the supremacy of knowledge over ignorance. We'll enjoy a simple meal with the family.
Saturday, 30 October 2027: Amer Fort; City Palace Museum (B)
Today we explore Jaipur. We pass the Hawa Mahal (the Palace of Winds), an architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Krishna. Glimpse the honeycomb facade, which was constructed following the principle of "purdah", where royal women were forbidden to be seen by strangers. This intricate latticework allowed women to observe the streets without showing themselves. We then visit Amer Fort, sometimes called Amber Palace. Perched high upon a fortified hill, this UNESCO site offers rich history and architectural beauty. With its large ramparts, series of gates and cobbled paths, the fort overlooks a large lake. We'll be transported via jeeps up to the entrance and then enjoy a guided tour of its courtyards. This afternoon, we visit the City Palace Museum complex, which also houses the residences of the current royal family of Jaipur. Be captivated by the beautifully painted doorways, exquisite paintings, art exhibits, and jewelry. There will be time to explore the colorful Jaipur bazaar.
Sunday, 31 October 2027: Fly to Mumbai (B)
Enjoy a slower-paced morning before we transfer to the airport for our approximate 2-hour flight to Mumbai. Formerly known as Bombay, Mumbai is the financial and commercial hub of India. It is a city of dreams and a gleaming magnet for India's millions of go-getting entrepreneurs. Upon arrival we settle in to our hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight Mumbai - 3 nights
Monday, 01 November 2027: Markets at Dawn; Mumbai City Tour; Mani Bhavan (B)
We wake early to experience the incredible atmosphere of this magical city at dawn. We'll explore markets at first light and be enchanted by morning prayers as our guide takes us to emblematic places where we'll be immersed into the authentic feel of life here in the city before returning to the hotel for breakfast. After a brief rest, we'll regroup and continue our sightseeing as we visit the highlights of Mumbai. See Gateway Victory Arch, built as a symbol of the power of British rule but also marks the end of it. Our guide takes us to the Kala Ghoda neighborhood, the city's premier arts district. Then we visit Mani Bhavan, where Mahatma Gandhi lived for nearly 20 years during and launched various political campaigns. Now a public museum, we learn how the Gandhian view is still relevant today.
Tuesday, 02 November 2027: Bollywood Dancing; Warli Painting Workshop; Farewell Dinner; Return Home from Mumbai (B,D)
Feel your creativity this morning as we participate in two creative pursuits. We begin with Warli art, one of India's unique tribal art forms that dates to 2500 BC. It uses basic shapes - a circle, a triangle and a square to depict human life. After creating our own artwork, we get to shake things up. Bollywood, Mumbai's enigmatic film industry, is the largest producer of movies in the world and its stories are often told through dance. We will learn a few basic steps and easy hand movements at a contemporary Bollywood Dance workshop. We will celebrate our adventure with an early Farewell Dinner and reminisce about our Indian adventures. Grouped transfers from the hotel to the airport are provided today based on the departure times you provide to WTT. The airport is approximately an hour from the hotel. Most flights to the US depart in the overnight hours. NOTE: Since most flights depart overnight and we have to check out early, you may elect to purchase the WTT Late Departure Optional so you can stay in your hotel room. This optional cost is a the full cost of a hotel night, it's not prorated by departure time.
India through the Eyes of Women
October 24 - November 2, 2027Pricing
Room Share
$4,751.00Single Room
$6,111.00Non-Members
ADD $100.00Status of this Tour
Space Available
Tour Pricing Includes
- All meals and activities expressly listed in the itinerary, PLUS...
- Tipping of drivers and local guides who lead one-off tours
- Grouped Airport Transfers
- Internal flight from Jaipur to Mumbai
- WTT Tour Director to enhance the individual & group experience
- Arranged room sharing with another solo traveler
- Travel Dollar credits (a benefit of WTT membership) toward future travel with WTT
Not Included In The Price
- Airfare or other transportation to and from the tour
- Meals and activities not specified in the itinerary
- Beverages other than coffee, tea & still water, unless otherwise noted
- Any personal expenses or expenditures
- Any pre- or post- tour arrangements
- Visa and/or passport fees
- Gratuity for in-country escorts who accompany the group (budget $40- $50)
- Any gratuities for the WTT Tour Director
- Travel Cancellation/ Interruption Insurance
- Mandatory Emergency Medical / Evacuation Insurance
NOTE: Mandatory Emergency Medical/Evacuation Insurance is required to take this trip. See "Insurance Reminder" section for suggested companies that sell this insurance.
Payment Dates -and- Cancellation Terms for This Tour
You have 3 days to cancel and receive a refund. Thereafter, the amount required at time of reservation is non-refundable and the following cancellation penalties will be enforced.
Tuesday, 27 Apr 2027: Last day $500 deposit can be converted to a credit for use on a new reservation; thereafter the deposit is forfeited.
Wednesday, 9 Jun 2027: Balance Due. Cancellation after this date but before Wednesday, 11 Aug 2027 results in a cancellation penalty of 75% of your Total Tour Cost.
Wednesday, 11 Aug 2027: Cancellation on or after this date results in a cancellation penalty of 100% of your Total Tour Cost.
Using Parked Credits: If traveler cancels during the 3-day cancel without penalty period, used credits will be re-parked with the original expiration date(s). Thereafter, cancellation will result in forfeiture of the total amount of parked credits used. If applicable, additional cancellation penalties will be assessed based on date of cancellation.
To Cancel: Should you need to cancel after your space on this tour is confirmed, you must use the Cancellation Form. Cancellation penalties are based on the date we receive your cancellation form. No other method of communicating a cancellation will be accepted.
Insurance Reminder
Standard health insurance plans often do not cover medical emergencies in other countries. As a solo traveler, insurance is essential to provide support and care coordination in the event of a medical emergency. It must cover air-evacuation from the destination as a result of a medical emergency during the trip.
Suggested companies for Emergency Medical/Evacuation Insurance are: Allianz Travel Insurance and World Nomads.
Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance is not included in the cost of the tour. It is your responsibility to determine the amount and type of coverage you require to recoup some or all of your travel investment, whether you cancel, are unable to complete the tour, or the tour cannot operate. Section 4.0 of WTT Terms & Conditions explains what will happen to your payments in the unlikely event that your tour cannot operate. You can purchase travel insurance from any provider you choose. To get an idea of rates, please go to NTA Travel Protection Plan (Enter 206063 for the "Tour Operator Location #") or TravelGuard.
India through the Eyes of Women
October 24 - November 2, 2027Flights, Transfers & Lodging
Documents Required for this Tour
Passport: Travelers are required to have a valid passport. Most countries require your passport to be valid up to six months after your RETURN date, and have at least two consecutive blank pages.
VISA: US Citizens entering India will require a VISA. All other passport holders should check with the Country's Embassy website to determine if they need a VISA. VISA requirements are based on your country of residence.
WTT will provide US citizens VISA Instructions shortly after Final Payment.
Arrival & Departure Information
Travelers will make their own air arrangements as follows:
When searching for flights for this trip, be sure to search "Multi-city" or "Multiple Destinations."
Arrival Airport: DEL - Delhi, India (Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport)
Arrival Date: Sunday, October 24. Arrive at your convenience.
Arrival Transfer: Grouped transfers included based on flight arrival times. Details will be provided in your Final Travel Instructions.
Departure Airport: BOM - Mumbai, India (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj)
Departure Date: Tuesday, November 2nd. Schedule your return flight no earlier than 8:00pm.
Departure Transfer: Grouped Transfers provided based on flight departure times. Details will be provided in your Final Travel Instructions.
When to Book Your Air
Once you have booked your flights (or other transportation arrangements), use the Travel Arrangements Form to send WTT your flight details. Use the same form to update your information should it change.
Airport Transfer Information
When arrival transfers are included: The Final Travel Instructions will list the transfer arrangements including who is in your transfer group, where to meet the driver, and who to contact in the unlikely event you cannot locate the driver.
Don't Worry. We're Expecting You: One of the reasons we ask for your travel arrangements is so we know when you're arriving and can approximate when you should be at the hotel. Your Final Travel Instructions will have instructions on what to do and who to contact if your flight is delayed.
Lodging / Hotels
Delhi: Le Meridien - Delhi, India
Agra: Taj Agra Hotel
Jaipur: InterContinental Jaipur
Mumbai: President Mumbai Hotel - India
Whenever possible, we choose hotels that are near the city center and/or where there are things to do and places to eat within walking distance of the hotel. When the chosen hotel is not within walking distance of much, transportation options, at the traveler's expense, are typically available.
International Tours: Please be aware that hotels outside the US may have smaller room sizes, may involve steps to enter the hotel and may not have air conditioning. While WTT strives to find hotels that are similar to US standards, we cannot guarantee it.
In the unlikely event WTT is unable to provide the hotel accommodation(s) listed, for whatever reason, WTT will substitute similar quality accommodation(s) at no additional cost to the traveler.
Want to Arrive a Day Early?
- Room (standard check-in times apply)
- Breakfast the following morning
- Transfer from airport to hotel
- Optional activity suggestions prior to tour
$206.00 Roomshare $387.00 Single
Early Arrival Hotel: This tour uses the same hotel used on the first night of the tour.
Optional Purchases For This Tour
In addition to the Early Arrival Optional Package - available on all WTT tours - this tour offers the following optional purchases.
- Late Departure, Single Room Only $343pp
CANCELLATION TERMS: Cancellation of Optional Purchases, which become part of your Total Tour Cost, are subject to the same cancellation terms as the main tour.
India through the Eyes of Women
October 24 - November 2, 2027Destination Information
What do others say about this tour and traveling with WTT?
How Does Room Sharing Work?
On the Reservation Form there are 3 choices regarding room-sharing.
Note: Certain room-types may be unavailable at the time you make your reservation. If a room-type is unavailable the choice will be greyed out.
- Select "Yes, I want to share a room" and WTT will assign you a roommate when Final Travel Instructions are sent.
- You can specify a roommate by entering her name where indicated. If your named roommate is not on the tour, for any reason, WTT will assign you a roommate unless you pay to have your own room, if available.
- Select "No, I do not wish to share a room" if you want to have your own room. Additional costs apply.
- All shared rooms have 2 beds
- All shared rooms are non-smoking
- No special requests about your roommate can be accommodated
- See "Frequently Asked Questions" TAB for more details
How Active is this Tour?
- 10% Easy
- 70% Moderate (multiple walking tours, cobblestone and uneven surfaces, crowding, hot weather, dry and dusty conditions)
- 20% Strenuous (stairs at museums, underdeveloped infrastructure, driving distances, time change)
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
What is the Group Size?
You will be introduced to the WTT Tour Director when you receive your Final Travel Instructions, about 2-3 weeks before the tour begins.
Learn about your fellow travelers after final payment by visiting MyWTT. Room sharing assignments will be listed in the Final Travel Instructions.
What meals are included and how are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Each day of the itinerary lists the included meals for that day (B,L,D,O=Other). When a meal is not included, the WTT Tour Director will have suggestions for where to eat.
You do not have to dine alone unless it is your personal choice. You'll most likely be dining with new acquaintances you've made, or you can join the Tour Director.
Dietary Restrictions on International Tours: WTT has limited to no control over food selections or variety from meal-to-meal, especially at hotels. While we do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions and ensure variety of options, we cannot guarantee either.
What clothing and items should I pack for this trip?
In general the temperature, rainfall and humidity levels vary based on the time of the year. We suggest you monitor weather apps leading up to the time you depart for the most current information.
For this Trip You will Need—
- Scarf—for covering your arms when required
- Light-weight clothing that covers your arms and legs when visiting temples
- Shoes that are comfortable for walking—They will get dirty
- Refillable water bottle
You May Also Want—
- Walking sandals
- Long skirt (or maxi dress)
- Summer-weight long pants or capri pants
- Lightweight long-sleeved shirt—To beat the heat
- Swimsuit with cover-up
- Portable phone charger
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
Good Packing Habits—
- Bring what you need to get a good night's sleep, such as ear plugs, white noise generator, sleeping aids, etc. Unfamiliar noises of all types can disrupt your rest.
- Pack a limited amount of comfortable, casual clothing that layer and coordinate. Your fellow travelers will not mind or even notice – seeing you in the same clothing.
- Bring only two pairs of everyday shoes: one pair of well-broken-in walking shoes, and a second pair that could do double-duty as a walking shoe or a slightly dressy shoe.
- Pare down your beauty regimen to the bare minimum and always pack travel-sized toiletries.
- Pack medication in your carry-on and pack only as much as needed for the duration of your tour plus a few extra days as a precaution.
What are the luggage restrictions for this tour?
On every WTT tour, our policies regarding luggage restrictions are driven by the physical space limitations of the vehicles we use, the requirement that all travelers be able to manage their own belongings without assistance and the restrictions imposed by other forms of transportation such as small planes.
- It is best to travel as lightly as possible. Most travelers regret when they have packed too much.
- You may bring one suitcase plus a personal carry-on bag.
- We recommend your suitcase be no larger than 26 inches high (i.e. the medium size, more-or-less, in a 3-piece luggage set) to make it easy for you to handle yourself.
- Keep in mind that you will be traversing airports as part of this itinerary and will need to handle your own luggage through customs. You will need to pay any and all charges you may incur by the airlines from overweight luggage.
- You are responsible for managing your own belongings. We expect you to take your belongings from the coach to your room and to bring it back to the coach on days we change hotels. We do not provide luggage pulls; they are not safe and are inconvenient.
- Steps exist at most hotel entrances. On occasion the coach must unload passengers and luggage some distance from the hotel entrance.
What are the health recommendations for this tour?
Do NOT drink water from the tap in India. Drink bottled water and ensure that the lid was properly sealed before drinking. Ice is generally made from purified water in larger city hotels and is safe to drink. It is recommended that one avoid street vendors, make sure you wash your hands thoroughly and choose well-cooked meals.
The possibility of contact with mosquitoes exists in India, especially during the rainy season (this trip is not scheduled during the rainy season). It is good practice to avoid being bitten. You can significantly reduce the chance of being bitten by wearing protective clothing (long sleeves and pants) and using a quality mosquito repellent. Consumer Reports recommends brands containing 20% Picaridin or 25% DEET as the best defense against all types of mosquitoes and biting insects. Avoid natural or herbal based repellents as they do not provide adequate protection from being bitten.
What are the phone and internet recommendations for this tour?
- You should understand what your current cell phone plan includes in terms of data and minutes. Some, like certain T-Mobile plans, include an international package.
- Contact your cell phone service provider before departing about adding an international calling plan. Most carriers have flat daily rates which will allow your US-based phone to be functional upon arrival in a foreign country.
- Managing data while traveling internationally is important. Using WiFi when available and communicating through apps like What's App help you manage data usage while traveling.
- Learn how to make an international call BEFORE you leave. Consult your cell provider and check out the website www.HowtoCallAbroad.com.
What are the electricity requirements for this tour?
You may wish to purchase a universal adapter which supports a wide variety of sockets/plugs, or simply purchase inexpensive plug adapters for the countries you plan to visit. Be sure to check your electronic devices for voltage compatibility. Many countries operate on 220V or 230V, which differs from most of North America. Most of today's electronics (tablets, laptops, phone chargers etc.) are multi-voltage and will work worldwide. Consult your owner's manual for further details.
How much money should I bring on this tour?
Only you can determine the optimum amount of cash to take on tour. When budgeting for out-of-pocket expenses, there are several aspects to consider: whether the country you are visiting is a cash-based society, the number of meals you are responsible for, your individual shopping interests and habits, and tipping expectations.
- The official currency of India is the Indian Rupee.
- It is difficult to exchange Rupees outside of India, so plan to exchange money at an authorized establishment at the Delhi airport. You will want to keep your exchange receipt as you will need it to reconvert Indian Rupees back to US Dollars at the end of your stay.
- You can also exchange money at banks and large hotels.
- ATMs are available, especially in more established tourist areas. If using a debit card, it is good practice to limit the amount of cash available in the account and simply transfer money from another account if you need more at any point on tour. Always use caution when withdrawing money.
- Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in large cities in India like Delhi and Mumbai.
- Notify your credit card issuer that you will be traveling and provide dates of travel.
- If a merchant gives you the choice between making your transaction in USD or the local currency, always choose the local currency, to avoid dynamic currency conversion which includes a conversion fee.
What are the tipping guidelines for this tour?
All tips to drivers and local guides who join the tour to lead individual activities will be paid on your behalf.
- You are responsible for Tipping the In-Country Escort who travels with the group. Budget $5-$7 per day.
- We suggest you read up on tipping culture in the various places you will be visiting so you can show your appreciation for any personal service provided with an appropriate gratuity.
- It is customary to tip in India. Plan to tip around 10-15%. Workers earn low wages in India, so tips are always appreciated.
- You are responsible for tipping waitstaff, porters, or other individuals who provide a service to you at the hotel, or other public locations.
- You may want to tip your WTT Tour Director for an outstanding job. The amount is entirely a personal preference. If you'd like a guideline, consider $8-$10 per day.
Can I transfer my deposit to another tour?
To get off this tour and register for another tour, you must follow these steps - in the order shown:
2) WAIT before submitting your new reservation! You must receive the Cancellation Confirmation email before submitting your new reservation. This can take up to 2 business days. The Cancellation Confirmation email will list the amount of parked credits from this tour that are now available to use on a new reservation.
3) COMPLETE the new Reservation Form and USE the parked credits towards your deposit on the new tour.
Note: If you used Parked Credits to pay the deposit on this tour, these credits cannot be used a second time and are not eligible to be transferred.
What happens if I need to cancel this tour?
India through the Eyes of Women
October 24 - November 2, 2027SPACE RESERVATION REQUEST
If becoming a member and signing up for a tour at the same time, you only need to fill out this form.

Our Promise to You
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