Hidden Holi Gujarat Photography Expedition

Today you start your adventure with an (often evening) flight from your home airport to Ahmedabad, the vibrant capital of Gujarat.

Upon arrival at Ahmedabad Airport, you will be welcomed by our English speaking driver, who will take you to your 3* hotel.

The afternoon is at leisure, giving you time to rest and acclimatize. You can explore the area, or simply enjoy a moment of relaxation.

In the evening, you’ll meet your fellow travelers, as well as Parvez and Nicole, your guides for this unique photography journey.

It’s a relaxed moment to get to know each other, share your expectations, and start building the connection that will enrich the experience over the days to come.

After breakfast, depart from Ahmedabad to Chhota Udepur, located in a tribal region with limited tourism infrastructure.

You will stay in a neat, no-frills hotel that offers a clean and authentic experience.

In the afternoon, enjoy some relaxed time to connect with your fellow travellers and ease into the rhythm of the journey.

Join an informative session with Parvez and Nicole to learn about the tour’s focus, approach, and practical tips including answers to frequently asked questions.

Early this morning, you’ll drive to Kavant to witness the vibrant and emotional Kavant Festival, a celebration of transitions, family bonds, and a successful harvest, expressed through color, music, and dance.

On the way, you’ll see groups of tribal people making their way to the festival, on foot or in shared transport, dressed in striking traditional attire.

Women from each village wear coordinated dupattas and skirts, while men sport matching turbans and skirts, each subgroup expressing its identity.

Both genders are adorned with bold silver jewelry and carry accessories like sunglasses, lighters, and radios — a unique visual experience that reflects the spirit and pride of the Rathwa community.

This morning, you’ll visit a vibrant village market where local men prepare for the Kavant Festival, surrounded by tribal crafts, traditional goods, and festive energy.

In the evening, witness Holika Dahan, the symbolic bonfire marking the start of Holi.

Rathwa villagers gather in ritual dress, singing and drumming as they light pyres and offer grains and flowers for blessings.

Watch as men apply ceremonial face paint, preparing for the sacred festivities ahead.

A powerful and rare glimpse into Holi through the eyes of the Rathwa tribe.

This morning, you will take part in a photo review session with Parvez to analyze your shots, receive personalized feedback, and refine your visual storytelling.

In the afternoon, visit the Tribal Museum of Chhota Udepur, which showcases objects, tools, traditional costumes, and dwellings of the Rathwa and Nayaka communities, offering a valuable immersion into their cultural heritage.

In the evening, you will experience an intimate Holi celebration with the Rathwa community: ancestral rituals such as walking barefoot on embers, ritual dances, tribal music, and local drinks — a powerful and authentic moment, far from mainstream festivities.

This morning, you’ll join photographer Parvez for a photo review session to refine your visual storytelling.

Late in the morning, you will set out to explore the surrounding villages, where the Rathwa community celebrates Holi with drums, folk songs, and vibrant dances.

A highlight of the day is the spinning pole ritual, where two men suspended from a wooden beam spin at high speed — a spectacular display of strength and ancient tradition.

Soak up the festive atmosphere, interact with the locals, and discover traditional tribal art before returning to your accommodation in the evening.

In the morning, take time to rest and reflect.

Later, visit a Rathwa home to see vibrant Pithora paintings, ritual wall art created to invite health, fortune, and ancestral blessings, filled with symbolic figures like horses, elephants, and goats.

In the late afternoon, explore Singala, a sacred site central to Rathwa spirituality, offering a deeper understanding of their beliefs and rituals.

Early morning, visit the lively Saturday cattle market in Chhota Udepur, where tribal groups like the Rathwas, Bhils, and Nayaks gather.

Men in red turbans and women in colorful skirts and silver jewelry trade vegetables, grains, and livestock.

It’s a vibrant glimpse into tribal culture and the local economy.

Check out from your hotel this morning.

You’ll have some free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing at your own pace.

You will be picked up approximately four hours before your return flight and transferred to Ahmedabad Airport for your departure.

Arrival at your home destination airport.