experiences

For 35 years, Trans India Holidays has been crafting unforgettable travel experiences across India and the sub continent. As we celebrate this milestone and reflect on over three decades of specializing in experiential journeys, our team of travel experts has curated a list of must-see festivals to add to your bucket list.

India and the Indian sub continent pulsate with a vibrant energy, undeniably one of the most festival-loving regions on the planet. From joyous street parties and lavish feasts to sacred religious ceremonies and breathtaking traditional dances, there is an adventure to captivate every traveler. Rich in diverse customs and steeped in ancient traditions, this region is truly a land of festivals. These annual celebrations serve as a vibrant testament to the enduring spirit and passionate adherence to cultural heritage. Prepare for a sensory explosion! Dazzling displays and a pulsating energy will ignite your senses.

Feast your eyes on intricate, flamboyant costumes and a kaleidoscope of captivating colors. Indulge your palate with delectable flavors – savor aromatic curries, fiery stir-fries, and hot noodle soups, alongside golden buttered naan, flavor-bursting spring rolls, and the comforting warmth of spicy Chai tea. The infectious rhythm of local music and mesmerizing dance displays often extend late into the night, while dramatic light displays, romantic lanterns, and candlelight cast a warm glow over the festivities. Experience the magic firsthand – the warm Asian hospitality and infectious spirit will undoubtedly leave you with lifelong memories.

We invite you to immerse yourself in the crowd, feel the energy, and share in the authentic experiences. You only live once!

1. Holi, Festival of Colors, India

Holi, a vibrant Hindu festival celebrated in India, is affectionately known as the Festival of Colors. This energetic two-day celebration marks the arrival of spring and symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. Taking place in March, Holi is a joyous occasion filled with vibrant colors. In a grand display, massive crowds of merrymakers toss a kaleidoscope of colorful powders into the air, coating everyone in a rainbow glow. Holi is also said to commemorate the enduring love between Lord Krishna and Radha.

    2. The Durga Pooja, India

In Eastern India, the ten-day Durga Puja is a vibrant celebration dedicated to Goddess Durga. Each day of this festival has its own unique traditions and local adaptations. One such distinctive practice involves the creation of intricate Goddess Durga images using mud collected from the sacred River Ganga and her tributaries, as well as mud brought down from the Himalayas. These magnificent creations are meticulously crafted by different communities and displayed in elaborate tableaus within large tents, known as pandals. A spirit of friendly competition often arises as each pandal strives to outshine its neighbors. As the festival concludes, the divine images are ceremoniously returned to the river, where the mud dissolves and continues its journey to the sea, symbolizing the cyclical nature of life and the ever-flowing divine energy.

    3. Diwali -Festival of Lights, India

Diwali, a major Hindu festival in India, is widely known as the Festival of Lights. Considered by many to be the most significant festival in Hinduism, Diwali is celebrated with great fervor in October/November. During this time, millions of twinkling lights, candles, and lanterns illuminate homes and streets across the nation. This dazzling display honors Lakshmi, the Goddess of Prosperity, and commemorates the triumph of light over darkness, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.

   4. Kataragama Perahera, Sri Lanka

The Kataragama Perahera is a vibrant and colorful festival procession in Sri Lanka. Held annually in July/August, this pilgrimage draws both Hindu and Buddhist devotees who journey on foot to the sacred town of Kataragama to honor the God Skanda.

   5. Vesak Day, Sri Lanka

Vesak Day, a significant observance in the Buddhist calendar, is also known as Buddha Day or the Celebration of Vesākha. Falling on the first full moon of May, this sacred day witnesses a captivating transformation along the shores of Beira Lake in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Elaborate light displays illuminate the lake, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Lord Buddha.

   6. Shivrartri, Nepal

Shivaratri, a major Hindu festival, stands in contrast to most Hindu celebrations, which primarily occur during the day. Revered as the Night of Lord Shiva, this significant festival honors Lord Shiva, the deity believed to have saved the universe from darkness and ignorance. It also commemorates his sacred marriage to Parvati Ma. Falling on the sixth night of the Phalgun month (February or March), Shivaratri is considered the holiest night of the year. Devotees observe a strict religious fast and maintain a jaagaran, an all-night vigil of worship. Thousands flock to Kathmandu's revered Pashupatinath Temple to partake in a customary dip in the holy Bagmati River before embarking on a long procession towards the sacred shrine.

   7. Thimphu Tsechu, Bhutan

The Thimphu Tsechu, held annually in October, is Bhutan's most celebrated festival, attracting visitors from across the globe. This vibrant spectacle is a captivating blend of Bhutanese culture and faith, featuring ornate costumes, ancient rituals, and mesmerizing sacred dances. Among the most renowned are the "Dance of the Black Hats" and the "Dance of the Terrifying Deities," offering a unique and unforgettable cultural experience.

Delhi is a city unlike another. The capital city of India is a city of charismatic contrasts. The layers of history, culture, architecture and people have created an unique charm that few remain untouched by its one-of-a-kind bliss. The starting point of most India tours and most importantly the coveted Golden Triangle Tours in India, Delhi is truly unmissable! 

Bringing two worlds together, the old and the new, Delhi has eight cities to its name, the oldest one dating back 3000 years back. With passing time the city went on adding layers to it, creating a colorful kaleidoscope. Explore the Mughal charm in Old Delhi or the days of the Raj in the New Delhi and with ruins of empires in the Qutub Complex, Purana Qila, Siri Fort and Lodhi Gardens. Savor the mouthwatering taste of street food or the fine dining restaurants. Enjoy the comforts of luxury living at the hreiatge hotels or one of the best resorts in the city.

To make your Delhi tour all the more amazing, here is all that you can add to your itinerary.

Old Delhi Heritage Walking Tour

Navigate the fascinating bylanes of Old Delhi soaking in the rich heritage on a walking tour. A well-informed guide will help you relive the history of this ancient city. Explore historical mansions, bustling bazaars, beautiful temples and shrines. Stop at the colourful stalls to observe the craftsmanship of local artisans at work.

Old Delhi Street Food Walking Tour

Embark upon a foodie adventure through the bylanes of Old Delhi. Make your evening special as you savor the best of street food delights of the city in the original nooks and corners of Chawri Bazaar and Chandni Chowk. An expert will guide you to the popular eateries, reputed for their authentic delicious fares along with hygiene and superior quality. Relish delectable kebabs, mouthwatering butter chicken, juicy jalebis, ghee oozing aromas, crispy aloo chats drenched in a miscellany of chutneys, refreshing glass of masala chai, selection of sweet kulfis and more. For even the largest appetite the quantity of the food is satisfying.

Gandhi’s Delhi Tour

For those interested in knowing the history of Mahatma Gandhi, the “Father of our Nation”, this tour, visits the sites in Delhi that played an important role in the life and death, of Mahatma Gandhi Accompanied by an expert guide who will regale you with stories, stops include the poignant Gandhi Smriti, his last residence and the scene of his assassination and the National Gandhi Museum, where many of his personal effects are on display, including the dhoti and shawl he was wearing when he died. Finally head to Raj Ghat, on the banks of the Yamuna River, where a simple marble platform with an eternal flame marks the spot where he was cremated in 1948.

High Tea at The Imperial Hotel

An icon of Delhi, The Imperial Hotel finds its place among cherished sights of the city, especially their award winning tea lounge, The Atrium. The classy heritage setting of the lounge sets the ambiance for a luxurious high tea experience. Savor a classic three tiered high tea or a mouthwatering buffet spread, complemented with an array of teas. Spend moments of bliss with some of India’s finest teas.

Cooking Class /Demo of Gourmet Indian food

An excellent half day out for those interested in Indian Cuisine.  Enjoy a cooking class alongwith a sumptuous meal with Jyoti and her family at their home in Delhi.  A delicious home cooked meal prepared by you and Jyoti together during the class.  Chat with her and get a glimpse of contemporary India in urban cities.

Akshardham Tour

The Akshardham temple complex is said to be one of the largest Hindu places of worship in the world. In the complex, in addition to the main Swaminarayan temple, there are delightful gardens, musical fountains, as well as audio and video shows showcasing India’s history and religion.

Bicycle tour of Old Delhi

This tour take you into the 17th century city built by the Shah Jahan of Taj Mahal fame. You ride into the once glorious city comprising the impressive Jama Masjid, Red Fort, Chandni Chowk, Spice Market, and Chawri Bazar. The tour offer you more than the monuments by providing you a real life experience of this old town waking up in the morning by taking the off beaten paths and lanes of this unique city. It also offer you a chance to have the same Chai (Tea) that local wake up to before heading out to their respective job. The tour end with a stumptous breakfast to prepare you for your next adventure.

Dinner at Bukhara Restaurant at Hotel ITC Maurya in Delhi

The Bukhara Restaurant , known for it’s North Western Frontier cuisine, is one of New Delhi’s most famous and celebrated restaurants, which has played host to various celebrities and Heads of State. A culinary delight not to be missed, Bukhara is famous for it’s Kababs , leg of Lamb and it’s Tandoori breads.

Fixed Menu Dinner at Indian Accent Restaurant at Hotel Lodhi in Delhi

One of New Delhi’s most famous restaurants, run by the renowned Chef Manish Mehrotra, Indian Accent has been featured in the World's 50 Best Restaurants in 2018. It been awarded the San Pellegrino Best Restaurant Award in India by Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2019 for the fifth consecutive year. It has also been rated as the No.1 Restaurant in India by TripAdvisor for 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018. Indian Accent has been awarded the Number 1 Restaurant in India by Condé Nast Traveller and Himalayan Sparkling Top Restaurant Awards.  Indian Accent showcases inventive Indian cuisine by complementing the flavours and traditions of India with global ingredients and techniques.