The scent of incense drifts through the air, lamps and lanterns glow in the night, and music and laughter spill into the streets. Coloured powders swirl during Holi, fireworks blaze for Diwali, and in Nepal, Tihar and Dashain bring families together in joyful celebration.

Our tailored festival tours place you at the heart of these vibrant traditions, from joining Holi in Jaipur as part of a Golden Triangle journey, to sharing a festive meal during Diwali, or taking part in family rituals in Nepal.

Your bespoke tour will include an air-conditioned car with an English-speaking driver, as well as local tour guides for any sightseeing trips.

Our holidays are protected by ABTA and flights by ATOL. Contact the team for more information on 01792 315499 or email info@aitholidays.com.

Why spring is a great time to visit India Holi

Holi – The Festival of Colours

Holi marks the arrival of spring with a riot of colour, music and dancing. Participants gather to throw brightly coloured powders, share festive sweets and enjoy the infectious sense of unity this celebration inspires.

Suggested Festival Tour:

  • Holi celebrations in Jaipur with a festival lunch
  • Evening dinner with a local family in Jaipur
  • Visits to Delhi, Agra and Jaipur’s iconic landmarks on a Golden Triangle route

Forthcoming Dates:

4 March 2026
22 March 2027
11 March 2028
The Golden Triangle Tour – Diwali Special

Diwali – The Festival of Lights

Diwali is a five-day festival symbolising the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Streets and homes are lit with oil lamps, fireworks fill the skies, and families gather to exchange gifts and enjoy traditional sweets.

Suggested Festival Tour:

  • A special Diwali dinner with festive dishes
  • Visits to markets and homes to see decorations and rangoli designs
  • Join a local family for part of the celebrations

Forthcoming Dates:

20 October 2025
8 November 2026
29 October 2027
Tihar Festival candles

Tihar – Nepal’s Festival of Lights

Tihar, celebrated over five days in Nepal, is similar to Diwali but with unique traditions. Each day honours a different animal or deity, from crows and dogs to cows and oxen, with offerings, garlands and blessings.

Suggested Festival Tour:

  • Visit a family in Kathmandu to take part in a Tihar day, such as Kaag Tihar or Kukur Tihar
  • Festival food preparation with your hosts
  • Guided evening walks to see street decorations and lights

Forthcoming Dates:

8–12 November 2026
27–31 October 2027
Highlights of Nepal Holiday Package – Vijaya Dashain Festival

Vijaya Dashain – Nepal’s Biggest Festival

Dashain is Nepal’s most significant festival, celebrating the victory of good over evil. It is marked by family gatherings, blessings and offerings. On Vijaya Dashami, families exchange tika and spend the day together in celebration.

Suggested Festival Tour:

  • Join a local family on Vijaya Dashami to receive tika and blessings
  • Share a home-cooked family dinner featuring traditional Dashain dishes
  • Optional market visit to see festival preparations and rituals

Note: On Maha Ashtami and Maha Nawami, animal sacrifices are common in some areas, and visitors may wish to avoid these days if sensitive to such practices.

Forthcoming Dates:

6–12 October 2026
17–23 October 2026