Diwali 2026: Spiritual and Festive Tour
in the Heart of Maharashtra

Itinerary summary

Day 1: Arrival in Mumbai, welcome and check-in at the hotel.

Day 2: Visit to Wai.

Day 3: Transfer to Kolhapur.

Day 4: Visit to Kolhapur.

Day 5: Visit to Phaltan.

Day 6: Visit to Jejuri Temple.

Day 7: Visit to Pedgaon.

Day 8: Visit to Ahmednagar

Day 9: Transfer to Aurangabad and visit to a himro workshop

Day 10: Participation in the Bokud Jalgaon celebrations

Day 11: Visit to the city of Ambad and participation in the Diwali ceremony

Day 12: Visit to the Ellora Caves

Day 13: Visit to Vetavadi Fort and Anwa Temple

Day 14: Visit to the Ajanta Caves

Day 15: Visit to three ancient capitals

Day 16: Return to Mumbai

Experience the Magic of Diwali:
India’s Festival of Lights

Diwali, or Deepavali, is not just a festival; it is an essential spiritual and cultural experience in India. Every year, millions of Hindu households light up to honour the goddess Lakshmi, symbol of wealth, prosperity and light triumphing over darkness.

Far from the tourist clichés, Akvin Tourism invites you to discover the authentic soul of this festival of light through an exclusive 16-day tour of Maharashtra, a land of fervour and Marathi history. Prepare for a total immersion, combining spirituality, historical treasures and community joy.

16-Day Itinerary: From Fervour to UNESCO Treasures

Our journey begins with a warm welcome in Mumbai, the bustling capital of the state. From there, we have mapped out a route specially designed to immerse you in the ancestral traditions of Maharashtra:

Marathi Heritage & Devotion (Kolhapur & Wai):

We will make an enchanting stop in Wai, the ‘City of Temples’, to admire ancient shrines and local architecture.

The highlight will be Kolhapur, the former capital of the Marathi Empire. You will witness the exceptional fervour that animates the Temple of Shri Mahalakshmi (Ambabai), the most revered sanctuary in Maharashtra and a key location for Lakshmi celebrations. You will also be amazed by the splendour of the palaces in this historic city.

Vibrant History and Spirituality (Phaltan & Jejuri):

Discover the understated elegance of Phaltan, a former princely state during the British colonial era.

On the road to Ahmednagar, immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the Khandoba Temple in Jejuri. Prepare for an unforgettable sensory experience as you witness traditional blessings where devotees throw turmeric, the queen of spices, in an explosion of golden yellow colour.

The Heart of Diwali (Aurangabad & Ceremonies):

We will reach Aurangabad, the former capital of the Nizams. It is here that the enchantment of Diwali reaches its peak.

Experience the Candle Ceremony in Ambad: the magical spectacle of thousands of lit lamps (diyas) and candles guarantees a moment of pure contemplation and wonder.

Then, the highlight of the show: a lively and colourful Diwali celebration in the village of Bokud Jalgaon. A rare opportunity to dance, share a meal and exchange moments of joy with the villagers, offering an unparalleled glimpse of Indian hospitality.

Cultural Finale (Ajanta & Ellora UNESCO Sites):

To end on a high note, explore the architectural gems of the region: the famous Ellora and Ajanta Caves, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A final immersion in ancient Buddhist, Jain and Hindu art.

This 16-day tour is a mosaic of experiences: festive, deeply spiritual, historical and cultural. It is the ideal trip for those seeking to understand the true essence of India.

At Akvin Tourism, your comfort and peace of mind are our top priority after a day full of discoveries. We take meticulous care in selecting each stage of your trip.

For this tour, we guarantee rigorously selected, high-quality accommodation with a minimum of 3 stars. Each hotel has been chosen for its quality of service, strategic location and authenticity.

To ensure your well-being, all single and double rooms are equipped with:

• Private bathroom (exclusive to your room).
• Western-style toilets (an essential comfort requirement for our customers).

Travel with peace of mind: focus on the experience, we’ll take care of your comfort.

Examples of hotels offered :

In Bombay (Mumbai): Bentley Hotel or similar

Phaltan- Hotel Jackson Inn or similar
Kolhapur- Hotel Krishna Palace or similar
Ahmednagar- Hotel Radiant or similar

In Aurangabad: Amapret or similar

Competitive Rates (Per Person, Based on Double Room)

At Akvin Tourism, we reward group bookings. The rate for this exceptional tour is on a sliding scale and includes premium quality service:

Number of People in the Booking	Price per person	Your Advantage
2 to 4 person	1890 €	Guaranteed departure with a minimum of 2 participants
5 to 10 person (Max.)	1690 €	Savings of €200 per person

Important Note: The tour is guaranteed to depart with a minimum of two participants. For bookings of 5 or more people, please contact us directly to finalise your registration and benefit from the group discount.

Guaranteed Price at Booking: The price agreed upon at the time of booking is firm and final, protecting you from any subsequent increases.

What’s Included: The Akvin Tourism Peace of Mind Package

We have included all the essentials to guarantee you a worry-free trip and complete immersion:

• Accommodation: Double room accommodation in minimum 3-star hotels (see Accommodation section).
• Meals: Daily breakfast and lunch (except on the first day, arrival day).
• Special dinners: Two festive dinners included during the Diwali celebrations in Ambad and Bokud Jalgaon.
• Local transport: All internal transport required for the tour (trains, buses and taxis).
• Culture & Sites: Entrance tickets to all monuments, sites and caves mentioned in the programme (including the UNESCO sites of Ajanta and Ellora).
• Accompaniment: Services of experienced local English-speaking guides throughout the trip.
• Preparation: Access to the Essential Tips Guide for preparing for your trip (downloadable PDF format).

What is not included: Personal expenses and insurance.

For complete transparency, here are the items that remain your responsibility:

• Meals: Dinners not mentioned above.
• Logistics: International flights and airport taxes.
• Formalities: Visa fees for India.
• Safety: Repatriation assistance insurance (compulsory for all our travellers).
• Personal expenses: Drinks, personal purchases, tips.

Included in this tour :

• Accommodation in a double room
• Breakfast and lunch every day except the first day (vegetarian meal)
• Transportation (plane, cab, train, and bus)
• Entrance fees to monuments
• Guides throughout the trip
• Dinner at Shendurwada, Ambad and Bokud Jalgaon (vegetarian meal)
• Essential travel tips (PDF download)
• Price guaranteed on booking

Excluded from this tour:

• Dinners (except at Shendurwada, Ambad and Bokud Jalgaon)
• Personal purchases, drinks and tips
• International flights and airport taxes
• Visa fees
• Repatriation assistance insurance
• Everything not included

Day 1: Arrival in Mumbai and First Immersion in Colaba

• Arrival and Welcome: Personalised welcome at Mumbai International Airport. Quick check-in at your hotel in the afternoon.
• First Discovery: Short guided tour of the historic Colaba district. Immerse yourself immediately in the vibrant atmosphere of the ‘city that never sleeps’ and discover the iconic colonial architecture of southern Mumbai. (Depending on arrival time)

Day 2: Wai, the ‘City of Temples’

• Journey to the Interior: After breakfast, departure from Mumbai.
• Architectural Treasures: Visit the sacred temples of Wai, a town located on the banks of the Krishna River. You will be amazed by the ghats and ancient shrines, witnesses to the former religious splendour of Maharashtra.

Day 3: Drive to Kolhapur, Satara Temples and the Magic of Rankala Lake

• Spiritual Journey: Early morning departure for Kolhapur. On the way, we will make a significant stop in the Satara region.
• The Shrines of the Krishna River: Visit several ancient temples nestled along the sacred banks of the Krishna River. This stop offers a moment of calm and contemplation, allowing you to admire the typical architecture of rural Maharashtra and the fervour of the faithful in a picturesque setting.
• Arrival in Kolhapur: Check into your hotel in the afternoon.
• Enchanted Evening: The day ends with a relaxing walk to the beautiful Rankala Lake. Admire the spectacle of lights reflecting on the water, a perfect night-time introduction to this royal city, the former capital of the Maratha Empire.

Day 4: Kolhapur: Devotion, Palaces and Old Town

• Spiritual fervour: A must-see visit to the Shri Mahalakshmi (Ambabai) Temple, the most revered shrine of the goddess Lakshmi in the region. Witness the fervour of the devotees during the month of Diwali.
• Royal heritage: Explore the majestic palaces of Kolhapur before strolling through the bustling alleys of the old town, discovering its unique crafts and local markets.

Day 5: Phaltan, the former princely state

• Journey through time: Drive to Phaltan. Visit this former princely state, which has retained its charm and discreet history. Discover its unique architectural heritage, far from the crowds.

Day 6: Jejuri and the Turmeric Ceremony

• Explosion of colours: Visit the famous Khandoba Temple in Jejuri. Prepare yourself for a unique and vibrant spiritual experience.
• Authentic Ritual: You will witness traditional blessings where turmeric (Haldi) is thrown into the air, creating a mystical and spectacular atmosphere. A highlight for lovers of Indian culture.

Day 7: Pedgaon and Historical Architecture

• Hidden Sanctuaries: Discover Pedgaon and its historic temples. This site offers a fascinating glimpse into the medieval architecture of the region, often overlooked by traditional tours.

Day 8: Ahmednagar, Capital of the Nizam

• Muslim Heritage: A day dedicated to exploring Ahmednagar, the former capital of the Nizam Shahi Sultanate.
• Treasures: Visit the palaces, mosques and tombs of the rulers. Our visit will include Ahmednagar Fort (if accessible) and the Tombs of Salabat Khan, true treasures of Indian Islamic architecture.

Day 9: Transfer to Aurangabad and Himroo Craftsmanship

• Towards the Heart of Diwali: Transfer to Aurangabad, our base for the days of celebrations.
• Craftsmanship: In the afternoon, visit a Himroo workshop. This local textile art, a blend of cotton and silk, is famous for its intricate patterns. It is the perfect opportunity to discover the craftsmanship of the Deccan.

Day 10: Rural Immersion and Festivities in Bokud Jalgaon

• Local Celebration: Participate in the colourful Diwali festivities in the village. A total immersion to dance with the villagers, share their traditions and experience their hospitality.

Day 11: Ambad, Temples and Deepotsav Ceremony

• Hidden Heritage: Visit the city of Ambad, renowned for its ancient temples and magnificent old mansions (wadas), witnesses to its past prosperity.
• The Climax of Diwali: Participation in Deepotsav (Festival of Lights) in Ambad. Witness the magical and spiritual spectacle of thousands of lit candles and diyas, a moment of pure magic and contemplation.

Day 12: Ellora Caves (UNESCO): Religious Mosaic

• UNESCO Wonder: Full day dedicated to visiting the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Fusion of Faiths: Explore this unique collection of 36 caves, bringing together temples, monasteries and sacred sites of the three major Indian religions: Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism. The Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) is a breathtaking architectural masterpiece.

Day 13: Local Discovery and Homestay

• Historical Adventure: Visit Vetavadi Fort and Anwar Temple, offering panoramic views and a dive into regional history.
• Authentic Experience: Visit the village of Undangaon for a total immersion in rural life in Maharashtra.

Day 14: Ajanta Caves (UNESCO): Masterpieces of Painting

• Millennial Art: Visit the famous Ajanta Caves, also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Cave Paintings: These caves are world-renowned for their exceptional cave paintings and frescoes. These Buddhist works, executed between the 2nd century BC and the 4th century AD, are among the best preserved in the world and a highlight for art and history lovers.

Day 15: The Historical Triangle of Aurangabad

• Impenetrable Fortress: Visit Daultabad Fort (or Deogiri), once the capital of the Delhi Sultanate. Its ingenious design and impenetrable fortress make it a fascinating site.
• Sufi Spirituality: Explore Khuldabad, the capital of Sufism in the 14th century, a place steeped in religious history.
• Conclusion in Aurangabad: We will end the day by discovering the last treasures of Aurangabad, the former capital of India in the 17th century under the Mughal Empire.

Day 16: Departure for Mumbai

• End of the trip: Transfer to Aurangabad railway station to take the night or day train (depending on the schedule) to Mumbai. Our services end upon arrival in Mumbai.

Highlights of the Tour: Why Choose Akvin Tourism?

The Magic of Diwali: Three Ways to Celebrate the Event

Our tour is specially designed to give you an authentic and varied experience of Diwali. Far from the celebrations, we guarantee total immersion by allowing you to actively participate in two distinct and unforgettable festive events. You will share in the community’s joy by dancing and interacting with the locals during a warm celebration in a remote village. You will also be overwhelmed by the spiritual magic of Deepotsav, where thousands of lit candles (diyas) transform the city into a luminous and contemplative tableau.

Historical Journey: World Heritage and Jewels of India

Akvin Tourism offers you an itinerary rich in major historical discoveries, going beyond the beaten track. The highlight of this cultural exploration is a visit to the unmissable Ellora and Ajanta Caves, two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, world-renowned for their rock art and ancient architecture. In addition, you will explore a multitude of exceptional sites in Maharashtra, including ancient Maratha palaces steeped in history, sacred temples along the Krishna River, and historic forts such as Daultabad, offering you a comprehensive overview of India’s rich past.

Multidimensional Approach: Cultural, Historical and Spiritual

The richness of our tour lies in its wide variety of visits, guaranteeing a captivating experience for all types of travellers. Each day is a carefully orchestrated mix of historical (forts and palaces), cultural (homestays and Himroo craft workshops), and spiritual (revered temples, rituals at Jejuri and the Deepotsav) experiences. This varied and balanced approach makes this trip ideal and accessible to as many people as possible, whether you are passionate about history, seeking a profound spiritual adventure, or eager to have authentic human encounters.

Booking Conditions and Transparent Cancellation Policy (Akvin Tourism)

Booking and Payment Terms

Booking Confirmation

Your booking is confirmed upon payment of a deposit equal to 10% of the total cost of the tour. This deposit guarantees your place in the exclusive group of 10 people. The balance of your trip must be paid in full no later than two months (60 days) before the scheduled departure date.

Refund Policy in Case of Force Majeure

Cancellation due to Border Closures or Force Majeure

Akvin Tourism is committed to maximum flexibility in the event of unforeseen circumstances (such as border closures or travel restrictions imposed by the Indian or British governments).

Refunds will be made according to the following conditions:

Cancellation Period	Amount Reimbursed	Details
Up to 15 days before departure	Full price (100%)	Full refund at no cost.
Less than 14 days before departure	Full price minus administrative fees	A flat-rate deduction of approximately €100 for administrative costs already incurred.

Politique d’Annulation du Fait du Client

Cancellation at the Traveller’s Initiative

In the event of cancellation on your part for any reason other than force majeure, cancellation fees are calculated based on the time remaining before departure. We remind you that the 10% deposit (down payment) is non-refundable, in accordance with our general terms and conditions of sale.

Time before departure	Percentage of Price Refunded	Applied restraint
30 days or more	100% of the price refunded	Retention of the 10% deposit paid.
Between 29 and 15 days	50% of the total price	Retention of 10% deposit + additional 40%.
Less than 14 days	No refunds	100% of the tour price will be retained.