India
Delhi, Udaipur, Jodhpur,
Pushkar Jaipur, Agra, Varanasi
Folk dances of India
Folk Dancing, Folk Music, Culture, History, Art, and Adventure!
When: January 25-Febuary 8, 2025
Price: Land Only: $4995
(To see our 3 choices of payment method, click here.)
I can’t wait to go! Reserve my place with my $200 deposit per person.
Discover India’s Rich Cultural Heritage, Folk Dance esthetic & melodramatic story:
Join us on this mesmerizing journey and let the rhythm of India’s folk dances captivate your soul. Book your spot today and prepare to be enchanted by the magic of India’s cultural wonders!
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of India’s cultural tapestry with our exclusive Folk Dance Tours. This tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant and diverse folk dances of India, each telling a story of the region’s heritage, traditions, and way of life. From the energetic Bhangra of Punjab to the graceful Bharatanatyam of Tamil Nadu, immerse yourself in the rhythm and soul of India’s rich artistic legacy.
Throughout the tour, engage in interactive workshops and meet local dancers and artisans who will share their knowledge and passion for their craft. Learn the basic steps of these folk dances and understand the significance behind each movement and costume.
**Itinerary Highlights**
Your adventure begins in the bustling capital city of Delhi, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modernity. Visit historic landmarks such as the Red Fort and Qutub Minar, and enjoy a traditional Kathak dance performance, known for its intricate footwork and expressive gestures.
Delhi – The Cultural Melting Pot** Republic day celebration Rise early this morning and take the pre reserved VIP seats to photograph the colorful parade. The parade along the city’s ceremonial boulevard Raj Path, showcases Indian culture and the country’s achievements in the fields of science and technology. The celebrations, which mark the day the Indian constitution Comprising over 25 marching and mounted contingents in their colorful uniforms, battalions on decorated camels, horse cavalry, President’s ceremonial guards, The military parade is followed by a colorful cultural parade. India’s rich cultural heritage is depicted in the form of tableaus from various states. Each state depicts its unique festivals, historical locations and art. This exhibition of diversity and richness of the culture of India lends a festive air to the occasion. In addition to cultural performers and 1200 schoolchildren, India’s Republic Day Parade in New Delhi is the most spectacular regular parade in the world. You will also have the opportunity to photograph thousands of people who come from all parts of India to see the parade in their traditional costumes.
- Rajasthan – The Land of Royals**
Next, travel to the regal state of Rajasthan, where the folk dances reflect the grandeur of its royal past. In Jaipur, witness the vibrant Ghoomar dance, traditionally performed by women in flowing dresses, and the energetic Kalbeliya dance, performed by the nomadic tribes. Experience the lively Bhavai dance, performed with earthen pots balanced on the dancer’s head, showcasing incredible balance and agility.
- Varanasi- land of music gharana**, also known as Kashi or Benares, is not only one of the oldest living cities in the world but also a vibrant epicenter of music and folk dance in India. Nestled on the banks of the sacred Ganges River, Varanasi is a city where spirituality, history, and culture converge, creating a rich tapestry of artistic expression. Renowned for its classical music and diverse folk dance traditions, Varanasi is truly a melting pot where the past and present harmoniously blend to create a unique cultural symphony. A Hub of Classical Music and dance :Varanasi has been a cradle for some of the most revered musicians and singers in Indian history. The city is synonymous with Hindustani classical music, which has flourished here for centuries. The sacred ghats and temples of Varanasi often resonate with the soulful sounds of sitars, tablas, and the powerful vocals of renowned artists.
Itinerary
Day 1: Saturday, January 25:
ARRIVE DELHI
Arrive in Delhi, sprawling on the banks of the River Yamuna, the capital of India, typifies the soul of the country. The legacy of that past survives in the many monuments left behind by the regents, each a chronicle of the glory of its time and an imprint of each ruler’s character. Meeting representative on arrival and transfer to HOTEL
Day 2: Sunday, January 26: DELHI – Breakfast & Dinner
Breakfast at Hotel. Morning at leisure to adjust with time difference etc. Afternoon tour of New Delhi includes a drive along Rajpath to photograph the Parliament House, President’s Palace and India Gate, a memorial to India’s soldiers. Your final stop is at the Qutab Minar and ruins of Hindu temples destroyed during the Qutabshahi period. Folk dancing participation and learning. Bhangra: One of the most popular dances of North India, Originally, Punjabis performed Bhangra to celebrate the success of the harvest. Giddha: is Punjab’s most famous folk dance for women. Giddha is a freestyle dance with spontaneous and creative movements displaying the excitement and high-spirited mood of the moment. Haryana Dhamyal: The folk dance of Haryana is known as the ‘Dhamyal’ or the ‘Duph’. The dance can be performed by men alone as well as with women. Phag: The dance done basically in the lunar month of Phalgun seeks to celebrate the colorful festival of Holi.
Day 3: Monday, January 27: DELHI – MUGHAL HISTORIC HERITAGE WALK (OLD DELHI) – Breakfast & Lunch
Mughal Historic Heritage Walk in Old Delhi Experience the newest Delhi attraction- metro train to Chawri Bazaar in old Delhi. Board tricycle rickshaw to Khari Baoli (spice market). The market has been operating since 17th century. Walk in Chandni Chowk area, first stopping at the Town Hall, built in 1865. Visit Gurudwara Shishganj Sahib: where the 9th Sikh Guru Teg Bahadur was beheaded during Aurangzeb’s reign. On to Ballimaran, past Mirza Ghalib’s Haveli (Museum). Ghalib was the great India poet who wrote in Urdu and Persian. Pass through narrow streets full of shops doing brisk business. Watch how merchandise is sold only in Specific Street as the Indian merchants have long practiced guild trading. Board our bus to visit Mahatma Gandhi Memorial at Raj Ghat; Jama Masjid before returning to Hotel. This evening enjoy folk dancing.
Day 4: Tuesday, January 28: DELHI / UDAIPUR – FLIGHT
Transfer to airport to board flight to Udaipur, “Venice of the East.” This lake city is perhaps the most romantic of all the Indian centers. Late afternoon, boat trip around the Lake Pichola and visit the Jagmandir, an island palace on the lake. Overnight at hotel Udai Kothi.
Day 5: Wednesday, January 29: UDAIPUR
After breakfast proceed for city tour of Udaipur visiting Sahelo Ki Bari (Royal garden), Crystal Art Gallery / Museum and City Palace. Evening visit Bagore Ki Haveli to see the dances ( Dharohar Dance show).
Day 6: Thursday, January 30: UDAIPUR / JODHPUR via RANAKPUR
Morning after breakfast drive to Jodhpur via Ranakpur. visit the fabulous 500 year old Jain Temple of Ranakpur. The temple is superbly preserved in perfect condition. The most distinctive features are the 29 halls of the main temple, some octagonal and many more than one story high and over 1,400 beautifully hand carved pillars each distinctively different from other. Later proceed to Jodhpur. Arrive and check into hotel for meals and overnight stay.
Day 7: Friday, January 31: JODHPUR
Morning visit Mehrangarh Fort built by Maharaja Man Singh to commemorate his victories over Jaipur and Bikaner armies. From the courtyard you will see beautiful latticework that covers the sandstone walls and balconies. See the beautifully decorated Dancing Hall, Royal Bedroom, Jewel-Studded Robes, Ornate Baby Cradles, Silver Elephant Seats and Palanquins. After lunch excursion to Bishnoi Village by Jeep, to learn about their 19 principles. You will meet the village elders and witness an opium ceremony. Famous for pottery, they will demonstrate their skills; if you wish you may participate in the ceremony. Next stop will be at Gudha Village to see Antelopes, Fazelle, Dumessille Crane and much more. Next, visit the Salaws, known for their weaving of magic carpets. Your last stop will be at a Shepherd’s Village; a perfect place to photograph traditional village life. After the tour return to the hotel. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 8: Saturday, February 1: JODHPUR / PUSHKAR
After breakfast travel to Ajmer, a popular pilgrimage centre for the Hindus as well as Muslims. Especially famous is the Dargah Sharif-tomb of the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, which is equally revered by the Hindus and Muslims. Continue to Pushkar. Pushkar is situated at the foot of the hills which add to its beauty. Five rivers, Suprabha, Kanaka, Prachi Nanda, and Saraswati flow here and make the place more beautiful and serene. Explore Pushkar, there are many sites that you can visit. Witness and photograph the various competitions like camel racing, turban tying and long mustaches competitions among others. Pushkar is also home to the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma. Nov 14 is full moon day and pilgrims come to bathe in the lake. It is considered to be the most auspicious day of the fair. Prayer ceremonies are organized in the evening at the temple, which you will be able to experience and photograph.
RAJASTHANI FOLK DANCES: The vast unending expanse of burning hot sand that makes up the Thar Desert of Rajasthan hosts one of the most vibrant and evocative music cultures of the world. The heady, hypnotic combination of rhythm and melodies sung and played by the Langas and Manganiars are part of the eternal appeal of this mysterious and wondrous land. Rajasthan has great variety of dances, which are simple expressions of jollity and festivity. The dancers, the dances and costumes have made Thar the most colorful desert in the world. Each province adding its own form of dance styles and performer. There are a dance that follows a lineage of age old traditions, adhere to sacred consequence, display their daring attitude as well as complimenting various fairs and festivals. During your stay you will be able to see, learn and participate on some of the folk dances of Rajasthan Dandi Gair is a popular traditional welcoming dance in Rajasthan.
Day 09: Sunday, February 2: PUSHKAR /JAIPUR
Travel by road to Jaipur, owing its name to the great warrior, astronomer, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Meeting assistance and transfers to Hotel. This evening enjoy a Rajasthani dinner & folk dances presentation. Overnight at Raj Palace hotel. RAJASTHANI FOLK DANCES: The vast unending expanse of burning hot sand that makes up the Thar Desert of Rajasthan hosts one of the most vibrant and evocative music cultures of the world. The heady, hypnotic combination of rhythm and melodies sung and played by the Langas and Manganiars are part of the eternal appeal of this mysterious and wondrous land. Rajasthan has great variety of dances, which are simple expressions of jollity and festivity. During your stay you will be able to see, learn and participate on some of the folk dances of Rajasthan.
Day 10: Monday, February 3: JAIPUR
Breakfast at Hotel. Visit the ancient capital of Amber, ascending the Palace Fortress on the back of a gaily caparisoned elephant. En route to Amber, photograph the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) built in 1799 AD. This afternoon tour the City Palace, once the formal residence of the royal family, built in a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Continue to Jantar Mantar, the largest of Jai Singh’s remarkable observatories.
Day 11: Tuesday, February 4: JAIPUR / FATEH PUR SIKRI/ AGRA : DRIVE
Travel overland to Agra, Stop en route at Fatehpur Sikri, a deserted capital city, built by Emperor Akbar in 1569. Continue to Agra, a place where no other historical monument has evoked as much admiration as the Taj Mahal. After settling in at the Hotel, visit the Taj Mahal, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1631-52, as a memorial to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal (Jewel of the Palace). Extended stay allows you time to view and photograph Taj both during day light and sunset. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 12: Wednesday, February 5: AGRA / DELHI /VARANASI : FLIGHT / CONNECTING FLIGHT
S
ee Agra Fort built by three of the greatest Mughal emperors. Then fly to Khajuraho, a city of living temples, of the Indo-Aryan type and generally classified as ” Nagara ” or North Indian. These temples were built during the Chandela period, a dynasty that survived for five centuries before falling to the onslaught of Islam. This evening visit the eastern group of temples comprising mainly the Brahamin and Jain shrines close tothe present Khajuraho village. Overnight at Radisson Khajuraho hotel.
Day 13: Thursday, February 6: VARANASI
Early morning boat ride on the holy river Ganges to see the devout praying and bathing on the Ghats (Banks), with funeral pyres burning in the distance. After breakfast, we do a half-day city tour of Varanasi visiting the Temples and by lanes. Rest of the morning is at leisure. Kathak dancing workshop with local teacher including transport by tricycle rickshaws! (Bus cannot go to the dance studio in old city.)Afternoon excursion to Sarnath, a place where Buddha preached his first lessons on Nirvana. Later visit the museum with its fine collection of Buddhist artifacts.
Day 14: Friday : February 7 : VARANASI
Morning breakfast at the hotel. Later walking tour of Varanasi into lanes and bylanes of Varanasi to typical of the city. Even witness Ganga Aarti from Dashaswamedh Ghat one of the highlights of the Varanasi tour. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 15 : Saturday, February 8: VARANSI / DELHI/ DEPART : FLIGHT
Transfer to airport for flight to Delhi and onward connection to your international flight.
FOLK DANCES PARTICIPATION & LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES :
Bhangra: One of the most popular dances of North India, Originally, Punjabis performed Bhangra to celebrate the success of the harvest. Now people perform Bhangra at wedding parties, receptions and other happy occasions. Persons of all types of social classes perform Bhangra together.
Giddha: is Punjab’s most famous folk dance for women. Giddha is not performed with any rigid set pieces or sequences. It is a freestyle dance with spontaneous and creative movements displaying the excitement and high-spirited mood of the moment. In recent times Giddha is performed as a choreographed dance, and still has the same high-spirited energy. Brightly colored costumes and elaborate jewelry enhance the performance further, it’s hard not to join in or at least clap along.
These days, Giddha and Bhangra are associated with each other and performed together by men and women of all ages. Thanks to the infectious beat of the dhol drum the Panjabi folk dances, Bhangra & Giddha have been a making inroad on to American dance floors over the last several decades
Haryana Dhamyal: The folk dance of Haryana is known as the ‘Dhamyal’ or the ‘Duph’. The dance can be performed by men alone as well as with women. The Duph, after which the dance form is derived, is a circular drum, played nimbly by the male dancers, as they dance.
Phag: The dance done basically in the lunar month of Phalgun seeks to celebrate the colorful festival of 
Holi. The dancers come together to the sound of ‘Tasha’, ‘Nagara’ and ‘Dhol’. The men come running & singing the traditional songs of ‘Phalgun’, followed by women carrying ‘Koraras’, the knotted lengths of cloths. They run about the men hitting with the ‘Koraras’ while men defend themselves as best as they can with ‘Shuntis’.
REGISTRATION FORM:
Enclosed is my registration deposit of $200 per person. Single supplement: $995. Additional charges: $185 hotel taxes and service. Gratuities and drinks during meals not included. Program subject to change without notice. Cancellations 90 days prior to departure: Total refund. Less than 90 days: No refund. Travel insurance recommended. Total balance due October 15, 2025
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