The magic of India... illuminated.

There are trips you take... and then there are moments that stay with you forever. This is one of those.

This women’s-only journey is your invitation to experience India at its most alive, during Diwali, the country’s most magical celebration. Picture thousands of glowing diyas lighting up homes and streets, the hum of celebration in the air, and being welcomed into a local family’s home where you don’t just observe, you participate. You’ll light candles, share a meal, learn traditions passed down through generations, and experience this incredible holiday from the inside.

And you’ll do it alongside a group of adventurous, open-hearted women. There’s something special that happens when women travel together. Conversations go deeper, laughter comes easier, and the journey becomes just as much about the people beside you as the places themselves.

But there's far more to discover besides Diwali; this adventure unfolds across some of India’s most iconic and unexpected places. Stand in awe at sunset at the Taj Mahal, wander the colorful spice markets of Old Delhi, explore the royal forts and palaces of Rajasthan, and connect with inspiring local communities, from Jaipur’s women-led pink rickshaws to the impactful work of Sambhali Trust. Then... shift gears completely as you head into the rugged landscapes of Jawai for a leopard safari and a magical night under the stars.

This is India in full color. Immersive, meaningful, exhilarating, and thoughtfully curated for women who want more than just a vacation. You want connection, discovery, adventure, and the kind of memories that stay with you long after you return home.

Join us.

OPTIONAL EXTENSION: Want to keep the peace flowing? Join our optional 2-night extension in Rishikesh at a traditional Indian ashram, where you’ll enjoy guided meditation, yoga sessions, nourishing vegetarian meals, and time to reflect along the banks of the sacred Ganges River. 

TRIP OVERVIEW  

Trip Dates: October 26-November 6, 2027  

Start Location: Delhi, India

End Location: Delhi, India

Accommodation: 11 nights

Optional Extension: November 6–8, 2027 | 2 nights | Rishikesh

• Celebrate Diwali with a local family in Jaipur

• Experience the Taj Mahal glowing at sunset

• Explore Old Delhi's spice markets and winding lanes by rickshaw

• Discover Rajasthan's magnificent forts, palaces, and markets

• Ride through Jaipur aboard women-driven pink rickshaws

• Connect with the women of Sambhali Trust in Jodhpur

• Safari through Jawai in search of elusive leopards, followed by a night of glamping

• Cruise Lake Pichola and experience the beauty of Udaipur

This journey is for women who want more than just a vacation. It’s for those who want to feel something, learn something, and share it all along the way.

It’s for you if:

• You love the idea of traveling with a group of like-minded women who are open, curious, and ready to connect

• You value meaningful experiences over checking boxes

• You’re excited to step into local culture, not just observe it

• You enjoy a mix of adventure and ease… full days balanced with time to soak it all in

• You’re the kind of traveler who says yes to trying new things, tasting new foods, and embracing the unexpected

• You want to feel comfortable, supported, and free to be yourself while exploring a new part of the world

• You believe the people you travel with can be just as important as the places you go

This is a women’s-only journey, thoughtfully designed to create a space where connection comes easily, conversations go deeper, and the experience becomes something truly shared.

This trip is not for everyone… and that’s by design.

It might not be the right fit if:

• You prefer to travel completely independently without group dynamics

• You’re looking for a luxury, hands-off experience with minimal interaction

• You’re uncomfortable with busy cities, sensory-rich environments, or stepping outside your comfort zone

• You want a highly structured, rigid itinerary with little flexibility

• You’re not interested in engaging with local culture or trying new foods

• You’re traveling as a couple or looking for a mixed-gender group experience

This journey is intentionally created for women who are open, engaged, and excited to be part of something a little deeper than a typical vacation.

Activity Level is MODERATE. This journey includes active days with several miles of walking while exploring markets, forts, palaces, and historic sites. Expect stairs, uneven streets and pathways, time on your feet, and getting in and out of rickshaws and safari vehicles. There are also several longer travel days by road.

You don’t need to be an athlete or have any trekking experience, but you should be comfortable with a full day of exploring, warm temperatures, busy streets, and the wonderfully sensory nature of India.

At The Nomadic Network, we believe group travel should give you the best of both worlds: a wonderful group of people to share the experience with, and the freedom to still travel like yourself.

Our small-group tours are designed for curious travelers who enjoy experiencing a destination together, sharing meals and adventures, and getting to know the people they're traveling with. But you don't have to do everything together. There’s always room to recharge, wander on your own when time allows, or simply enjoy a little space. No forced fun here.

We travel thoughtfully and with curiosity, taking time to learn about the places we visit, support local communities and businesses, try the food, understand the history, and experience more than just the major sights.

Our hope is pretty simple: that you come home having experienced an incredible part of the world, learned a few things, laughed a lot, and maybe even made some wonderful new friends along the way.

PAYMENT OPTIONS. We offer payment plan options! Pay in full and save $100, or just pay a deposit now and pay the rest over time with no interest.

POTENTIAL FEES. A 3% platform fee applies to all bookings. Additional fees may be charged by your bank if you pay by credit card. No extra fees when paying directly from your bank account.

DISCOUNTS. Only one promo code per booking. Must be used at checkout—no retroactive discounts.

CARBON OFFSET. We care about the future of our planet, so our customers have the option to contribute towards carbon offsets at checkout. Thank you for your support.  

PHOTOS. We love to share our photos! Enjoy a shared photo gallery of pooled photos after every trip.

GRATUITIES. Gratuities are not required but greatly appreciated by locals in the tourism industry. For your convenience, we work to handle most tipping for you. See "What's Not Included" for specifics.

FLEXIBLE CANCELLATION. We offer a flexible cancellation policy: Read the full details in our Terms & Conditions.

Namaste & Welcome to India!

Your journey begins in Delhi, India's fascinating capital. Upon arrival, you'll be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel, where you'll have time to settle in and relax after your travels.

This evening, we'll meet our fellow travelers and tour leader before heading out for our first dinner together. Over a delicious Indian meal, we'll get to know one another and toast to the incredible journey ahead.

Meal: D

Today we dive into the sights, sounds, flavors, and everyday life of Old Delhi!

We’ll travel like locals on the Delhi Metro, where the first car is reserved for women, before stepping into the winding lanes of historic Old Delhi. Along the way, we’ll visit an 18th-century Sikh temple, explore the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk, sip chai from a local shop, and hop aboard a rickshaw for a ride through the heart of the neighborhood. We’ll also wander through Khari Baoli, Asia’s largest spice market, surrounded by towering sacks of colorful spices and incredible aromas.

After some free time this afternoon, we’ll head outside the city center for one of our favorite kinds of TNN experiences: dinner with a local family. We’ll spend the evening learning about everyday life and Indian wedding traditions, try our hand at cooking, dress in traditional clothing, enjoy music and dancing, and share a delicious home-cooked meal together.

It’s an incredible first full day in India, filled with history, food, local life, and connection.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, we’ll journey to Agra in our private air-conditioned vehicle. For those interested, there will be an optional opportunity to visit Sheroes Hangout, a café run by acid attack survivors that provides community, employment, and support to women. Enjoy lunch while learning more about their mission and the important work they are doing.

We’ll also step into the world of traditional Indian craftsmanship with a rug-making demonstration, where local artisans will share the intricate techniques and generations of artistry behind these beautiful handmade works. Watching the process come to life offers a fascinating glimpse into one of India’s treasured artistic traditions.

Later in the day, prepare for a true bucket-list moment as we visit the Taj Mahal at sunset, when the marble glows in soft golden light. Seeing one of the world’s most iconic monuments in person is extraordinary. Experiencing it as the sun begins to set makes it even more memorable.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, we’ll journey to the famous Pink City of Jaipur, a destination bursting with color, history, and energy. Known for its magnificent forts, bustling bazaars, and intricate craftsmanship, Jaipur is one of India’s most visually stunning cities. It has long been celebrated as a center for exquisite jewelry and gemstones, where generations of artisans have perfected their craft. Along the way, we’ll enjoy a block printing demonstration and gain insight into one of Rajasthan’s most treasured artistic traditions.

But today is about something even bigger.

Tonight, we experience Diwali. ✨

Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is one of the most important and beloved celebrations in all of India. Homes glow with thousands of flickering diyas, families gather in celebration, sweets are shared, fireworks light up the sky, and the entire country feels absolutely electric with joy, tradition, and togetherness. For many travelers, witnessing Diwali is a lifelong dream. Experiencing it from inside a local home is something far more rare and meaningful.

This evening, we won’t simply observe the celebration; we’ll become part of it. Welcomed into the home of a local family, we’ll light diyas together, share a festive meal, learn about the traditions and symbolism behind the holiday, and celebrate alongside the people who know it best. Expect color, warmth, laughter, connection, and memories that will stay with you forever.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Today we continue exploring the many layers of Jaipur with a morning visit to the stunning Amer Fort, also known as Amber Palace. Set high above the city and overlooking Maotha Lake, this historic fort is one of Rajasthan’s most impressive landmarks. Built from red sandstone and marble, the palace is filled with intricate details, sprawling courtyards, colorful archways, and beautifully decorated rooms that reflect a blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. As we explore, we’ll learn more about the royal history of Jaipur and the artistry that helped shape this remarkable place.

Later in the day, we’ll experience Jaipur in one of the most memorable ways possible... aboard the city’s famous pink rickshaws driven by local women. This inspiring initiative was created to provide meaningful employment opportunities and greater independence for women in Jaipur, and it has become one of the city’s most beloved experiences. We’ll wind through lively market streets, pass the glowing Albert Hall Museum, and stop for street chai at one of the most iconic spots around, while taking in the evening energy of the Pink City.

For those interested, there may also be time to get henna from local female artists or catch a classic Bollywood movie at the famous Raj Mandir cinema!

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, we’ll journey deeper into Rajasthan as we make our way to the legendary Blue City of Jodhpur. Today’s longer drive gives us a chance to slow down and watch the landscape change along the way, from colorful villages and desert scenery to glimpses of everyday life unfolding outside our window.

Jodhpur is famous for its sea of blue-painted homes, rich history, and striking architecture rising at the edge of the Thar Desert. Once we arrive, the evening is yours to relax and settle into the slower rhythm of this beautiful desert city. Enjoy dinner, unwind at our hotel, and recharge before tomorrow’s adventures begin.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Today we’ll explore one of Rajasthan’s most striking cities, beginning with a visit to the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort. Towering high above the Blue City, this massive fort is known for its incredible architecture, rich royal history, and sweeping panoramic views across the sea of blue-painted homes below. As we wander through its ornate courtyards, detailed carvings, and beautifully preserved rooms, we’ll get a deeper glimpse into the history and culture of Rajasthan.

Afterward, we’ll head into the lively heart of Jodhpur to explore Sardar Market, where colorful textiles, spices, handicrafts, and everyday local life create an energetic atmosphere around the famous clock tower. We’ll also visit one of the city’s historic stepwells and have time to relax at one of Jodhpur’s charming cafés while soaking in the unique character of the Blue City.

In the evening, we’ll experience one of the most meaningful moments of the journey with a visit and dinner at Sambhali Trust, an inspiring organization dedicated to empowering women and girls in Rajasthan. Through education, vocational training, self-help programs, and advocacy, Sambhali works to create greater independence and opportunity for women facing social and economic barriers.

This special visit offers the chance to learn more about the organization’s impact, connect with local women, and support a program creating real change within the community.

Meal: Breakfast, Dinner

Today we leave the cities behind and head into one of Rajasthan’s most unique and exciting regions for an experience that feels completely different from everywhere else on the journey!

After breakfast, we’ll travel to the remote village region of Jawai, known for its remarkable coexistence between local communities and wild leopards. This is not your typical safari destination. Jawai is rugged, peaceful, dramatic, and still largely undiscovered by mainstream tourism.

The landscape is stunning, with giant granite boulders, hidden caves, open grasslands, winding riverbeds, and quiet rural villages scattered throughout the countryside. We’ll also experience a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Rabari shepherd community, whose connection to the land spans generations.

After arriving at our beautiful glamping camp, we’ll enjoy a fresh local lunch and some time to relax before the real adventure begins. We head out on safari in search of Jawai’s elusive leopards! The open rocky terrain makes every sighting feel especially thrilling and wild. As the sun sets over the landscape, we’ll stop for high tea with unforgettable views before returning to camp for a bonfire, delicious dinner, and a magical evening under the stars.

Ahhh… THIS is the kind of travel we live for. ✨

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, High Tea at Safari, and Dinner

After breakfast, we’ll leave the wild landscapes of Jawai behind and make our way to Udaipur, Rajasthan’s beautiful City of Lakes, also lovingly referred to as "the Venice of the East".

Surrounded by the Aravali Hills and known for its shimmering lakes, whitewashed buildings, colorful markets, and grand palaces, Udaipur has a wonderfully relaxed feel after our adventures through Rajasthan.

And if parts of the city look familiar, there’s a reason! Scenes from The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel were filmed here.

After checking into our hotel, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Lunch is on your own, with time to wander the markets, find a café, do a little shopping, or simply relax and enjoy the lakeside setting.

This evening, we’ll come together for a traditional Rajasthani folk performance featuring music, dance, and cultural traditions passed down through generations.

Meal: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, we’ll visit the stunning City Palace, one of Rajasthan’s most impressive royal palaces. Overlooking Lake Pichola, this sprawling complex blends Rajput and Mughal architecture with ornate balconies, colorful courtyards, intricate details, and sweeping views across the city and water below. Still partially home to Udaipur’s royal family, the palace offers a fascinating glimpse into Rajasthan’s royal history.

The rest of the day is all about enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of Udaipur. We’ll take a scenic boat ride across Lake Pichola, with time to explore the colorful markets, browse textiles and handmade goods, relax at a café, or simply enjoy the beauty of the City of Lakes.

In the evening, there will be an optional hands-on cooking experience with a local woman who empowers others through traditional Rajasthani cooking classes, offering a wonderful opportunity to connect through food, culture, and conversation.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, we’ll fly back to Delhi, where the afternoon is yours to relax, repack, or enjoy a little downtime before our final evening together.

Tonight, we’ll gather for a special farewell dinner and one last meal as a group. After nearly two weeks of Diwali celebrations, palaces, markets, local families, leopards, and plenty of adventures in between, we’ll raise a glass to an incredible journey through India and the women who shared it with us.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

It will be so sad to say goodbye! If you're not staying on for the optional extension (below), after a last hearty breakfast you will transfer back to the airport for your flights home. Thank you for joining us on this wonderful adventure!

Meal: B

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OPTIONAL 2-NIGHT RISHIKESH ASHRAM EXTENSION

Not ready to go home just yet? After the color, excitement, and energy of our journey through India, spend two peaceful nights at a serene ashram in the foothills of the Himalayas.

In Rishikesh, known as the birthplace of yoga and a sacred center for spiritual seekers, we’ll slow things way down. Each day begins and ends with guided meditation and gentle yoga led by experienced teachers, with nourishing vegetarian meals shared communally and plenty of time to relax, reflect, journal, or simply enjoy the peaceful setting along the Ganges.

You don’t need to be an experienced yogi to love this. The atmosphere is welcoming and wonderfully peaceful, making it a beautiful way to decompress, reconnect, and end our time in India.

Meal: D

Today is yours to settle fully into the peaceful rhythm of ashram life. Begin and end the day with guided meditation and gentle yoga sessions led by experienced teachers in a beautiful open-air hall.

All meals and scheduled activities are included, but how much you participate is entirely up to you. Join the sessions that appeal to you, spend time reflecting or journaling, take a quiet walk, or simply relax and enjoy having nowhere you need to be.

Whether you’re an experienced yogi or simply curious about ashram life, today is all about slowing down, recharging, and soaking in this wonderfully peaceful setting.

Meals: B, L, D

We’ll have one final morning to soak up the peaceful rhythm of the ashram before saying goodbye to Rishikesh. Enjoy breakfast, join a final yoga or meditation session, or simply savor a little quiet time before we depart around lunchtime for Delhi.

This evening, it really will be time to say goodbye! All transfers are taken care of, with a private, air-conditioned vehicle transporting you directly to the Delhi airport for your flight home.

Not quite ready to leave India? If you’d like to spend another night in Delhi, we’re happy to help make those arrangements for you.

Meal: B