15 Day Inspired India - A Women's Only Journey

Welcome to Delhi! India's vibrant capital is a dynamic blend of history and modernity, where centuries-old monuments stand alongside striking contemporary architecture. From the bustling lanes of Old Delhi to the grandeur of New Delhi, the city offers a captivating introduction to India's rich cultural tapestry. Upon arrival, a local representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel, conveniently located for easy access to the city's many attractions. Special Information Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed. If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.

After breakfast, take part in a brief cultural orientation led by your female tour leader, covering etiquette, safety, and an introduction to the journey ahead. Then, explore the bustling streets, vibrant markets, and historic architecture of Old Delhi, including a drive past the Red Fort and a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk. Enjoy a short metro ride in the women-only compartment, offering both comfort and safety for female commuters while giving you a glimpse into daily urban life. After lunch, immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, where you may participate in langar, the communal meal that reflects Sikh values of equality and service. Continue with a drive past Delhi's most famous landmarks, including India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan. Visit Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that inspired the design of the Taj Mahal, and take a leisurely stroll through its serene gardens. In the evening, conclude the day with a welcome dinner at an Indian speciality restaurant featuring à la carte service, celebrating local flavours and warm hospitality. Inspiring Highlights Old Delhi Rickshaw Ride Sikh Gurudwara Bangla Sahib Ride the metro with local women in the women-only compartment, offering an authenticwindow into everyday urban life

Begin your day with an early morning personalised yoga session (45 minutes) in the serene surroundings of Lodhi Garden, a lush oasis in the heart of the city. Amid centuries-old tombs and peaceful greenery, connect with traditional wellness practices under the guidance of an expert female yoga instructor. Return to the hotel for breakfast before transferring to the airport for your morning flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to rest and refresh. One of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, Varanasi is the spiritual heart of India. Set along the sacred River Ganges, it is a place where ancient rituals, winding lanes, and vibrant ghats weave together into a powerful tapestry of culture and devotion. From sunrise ceremonies to timeless temple traditions, Varanasi offers an unforgettable glimpse into India's sacred soul. Before sunset, witness the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat—a mesmerising ritual performed on the banks of the sacred river—accompanied by a female cultural guide who will share insights into its spiritual significance and local traditions. You will also have the opportunity to participate in the ceremony by gently releasing earthen lamps onto the water, creating a beautiful and deeply personal moment of connection. Enjoy the evening at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Yoga session guided by a female yoga instructor at the serene Lodhi Garden Experience the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, accompanied by a female cultural guide who will share the stories, symbolism, and traditions behind this sacred ritual Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours. Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 20kg, and one 7kg carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be escorted. Your flight documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour leader.

Start the day with a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, observing morning rituals along the ghats as the city awakens to the river's timeless rhythm. A local musician will accompany you on board, playing the flute or sitar to elevate the serene atmosphere, while you savour a cup of Varanasi chai served in a traditional kulhad (earthen cup). Later, disembark at Manikarnika Ghat and walk through the temple corridor to view Manikarnika Ghat and the Kashi Vishwanath Temple from the outside. Return to the hotel for breakfast. Afterwards, drive to Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. In the afternoon, meet female Banarasi silk weavers, observe their demonstrations, and engage in conversations about craft preservation and the vital role of women in sustaining these traditional arts. Enjoy your evening at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Sunrise River Ganges Boat Ride Meet women artisans safeguarding centuries-old crafts, and enjoy an intimate glimpse into their techniques and stories

Rise early for a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, the ultimate symbol of love and architectural brilliance, before returning to your hotel for breakfast. Later, depart Agra for Jaipur, stopping en route at the Abhaneri Stepwell (Chand Baori)—an architectural marvel that highlights ancient water-management techniques. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Jaipur, where you will check in to your hotel in the late afternoon. Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is a vibrant blend of royal heritage and bustling markets, adorned with majestic forts, palaces, and colourful streets. Renowned for its rich arts, crafts, and architecture, the city offers an immersive journey into Rajasthan's regal past. Enjoy your evening at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Taj Mahal Sunrise Abhaneri Stepwell Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

After breakfast, start the day with a jeep ride up to Amber Fort, where you can explore its magnificent architecture and soak in panoramic views of Jaipur. In the afternoon, drive past the Hawa Mahal before visiting City Palace and Jantar Mantar, two iconic landmarks that reflect Jaipur's royal heritage. Conclude the day with a Rajasthani folk performance accompanied by dinner in a heritage setting. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon, and enjoy the evening at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Amber Fort City Palace Jantar Mantar

After breakfast, begin your day with a rickshaw ride with The Pink City Rickshaw Company, a not-for-profit organization creating new aspirational employment opportunities for 200 women from low-income households in Jaipur. The rickshaws are driven by women, offering a unique perspective on urban mobility and empowerment. Later, participate in a block-printing workshop led by women artisans, where you can learn hands-on techniques and gain insight into the social and cultural context of this traditional craft. The artisans will explain the history and significance of the designs, which often draw inspiration from traditional Indian motifs like paisleys, florals, and geometric patterns. It's a fantastic way to engage with local culture and support the craftsmanship of these talented women. Enjoy lunch and the afternoon at leisure. In the evening, enjoy a Rajasthani Folk Performance & Traditional Dinner. End your day with a colourful folk performance of music and dance in a heritage-style setting. Enjoy a traditional dinner featuring local delicacies, offering an authentic taste of the region's rich culinary traditions. Inspiring Highlights Take a Pink City rickshaw ride driven by women, for a unique cultural experience that also promotes local empowerment Support women-led traditional arts while experiencing Jaipur's cultural heritage hands-on

After breakfast, embark on a jeep safari through rural villages, visiting local households of the Bishnoi community to gain insight into daily life, traditional crafts, and community practices. Hear the inspiring story of Amrita Devi, a Bishnoi woman who, in 1730, courageously embraced a khejri tree to prevent it from being cut down. Her bravery inspired hundreds of villagers to stand with her, leaving a lasting legacy of environmental stewardship and reverence for all living beings. The afternoon is at leisure, allowing time to relax by the pool or explore the village. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel in a heritage-style setting. Inspiring Highlights Bishnoi Community Jeep Safari

After breakfast, drive to Udaipur, stopping en route to admire the Ranakpur Jain Temples and their intricate architecture. Arrive in Udaipur in the late afternoon and check into your hotel. Known as the City of Lakes, Udaipur enchants visitors with its serene waters, grand palaces, and timeless royal heritage. The city's romantic architecture and vibrant culture offer a captivating glimpse into Rajasthan's regal past. Enjoy dinner and relax for the night, ready for another exciting day of sightseeing tomorrow. Inspiring Highlights Ranakpur Jain Temples Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours.

After breakfast, explore City Palace, Jagdish Temple, and Saheliyon-ki-Bari in the morning. Then, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola to Ambrai Ghat. The afternoon is at leisure, allowing time for shopping, spa treatments, or relaxation at the hotel. In the evening, participate in a cooking class at Deolia House with a female chef. The experience includes a market visit to select fresh vegetables and ingredients, hands-on preparation, and culminates in enjoying the meal you have created together with your fellow travellers. Inspiring Highlights City Palace Jagdish Temple Saheliyon-ki-Bari Lake Pichola Boat Ride Participate in a cooking class with a female chef, including a market visit to select fresh ingredients, hands-on preparation, and enjoying the meal you've created

Enjoy your morning at leisure before your transfer to Udaipur Airport for your flight to Delhi. Upon arrival in the afternoon, check into your hotel located near the airport.Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours.Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 20kg, and one 7kg carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be escorted. Your flight documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour leader.

Unfortunately, today marks the end of your incredible tour through India. At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport to board your flight home. Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience. Special Information Departure transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.