2021 Jaipur Literature Festival

Welcome to incredible India and to the start of your writing journey. An Ekno representative will meet you at the airport and escort you to the hotel. After checking into the hotel, spend the rest of the day at your leisure exploring the local area and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. Sharon will be on hand at the hotel if you need any assistance or recommendations.

Overnight: Hotel, Delhi

Today you will step back in time with Sharon as she leads the group through the bustling and fascinating streets of Old Delhi. We’ll admire India’s largest mosque, the magnificent Jama Masjid; and enjoy a rickshaw ride through the ancient alley ways of Chandni Chowk bazaar. We’ll pass by the Red Fort before paying our respects at Raj Ghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. As we continue to weave our way back to New Delhi, we will pass British era landmarks such as India Gate, Rajpath, the President’s House, Parliament House & the Government Secretariat Buildings.

In the afternoon Sharon will lead the first writing workshop of the tour. After some creative introductory activities the focus for today will be on sensory writing. You will be encouraged to take your inspiration from colourful Old Delhi as you explore writing about place.

In the evening Sharon will take the group to one of her favourite restaurants in Delhi, specialising in delicious North Indian cuisine.

Overnight: Hotel, Delhi

After breakfast at the hotel we will drive to Agra, arriving by early afternoon. Agra is the former capital of the Mughal empire and home to a number of UNESCO World Heritage sites. This relatively small city is packed with history, which is testament to the power and wealth of the Mughal reign in India.

After checking into our hotel we will spend the afternoon exploring Agra’s Red Fort, one of the most beautiful forts in Northern India. The Red Fort was the main residence for the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638, when the Mughal capital was shifted from Agra to Delhi.

In the evening Sharon will lead a writing workshop focusing on mindful writing. You will be encouraged to think about your personal history as you write about a significant event from your past.

Overnight: Hotel, Agra

Rise and shine early to witness the once in a lifetime event of a spectacular sunrise visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal is India’s most-photographed monument, and today you’ll see why. Built between 1632 and 1653 in memory of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan’s beloved third wife, the Taj Mahal is world-renowned and widely admired as a wonderful photo opportunity.

After visiting the Taj we will return to the hotel for breakfast before setting off for Jaipur, the capital city of the desert state of Rajasthan. Sit back and enjoy the changing desert scenery and be sure to look out for elephants and camels on the road!

After checking into the hotel Sharon will host a writing workshop dedicated to travel writing and journeys.

Overnight: Hotel, Jaipur

For the next two days we will attend the Literature Festival in Jaipur. This yearly festival has grown to become a celebrated event with over 200 speakers from 20 different countries. Acclaimed writers and festival Directors Namita Gokhale and William Dalrymple handpick a diverse and exciting line up of speakers and performers every year in what is a global celebration of debate, creative expression and thoughtful dialogue. You will find it all here – from Man Booker prize winners to local activists, Nobel laureates and writers from the vast Indian diaspora.

During our festival experience Sharon will lead two writing workshops, focusing on travel writing and memoir.

There will also be the opportunity to visit some of Sharon’s handpicked sights in Jaipur, known as the ‘Pink City’. We will visit the majestic City Palace, Hawa Mahal; and the ancient Jantar Mantar observatory. In the evenings you will be able to explore the sights and colours of the Jaipur Markets including the famous Johari Bazaar (Jeweller’s Market), where Sharon will take you to her favourite gem and silver shops. In the evening you can visit the most iconic cinema in Jaipur, Raj Mandir, for a taste of Bollywood’s magical brand of entertainment. On your last night in Jaipur, why not visit the exclusive and historical Taj Rambagh Palace for a drink in the exclusive Polo Bar?

Overnight: Hotel, Jaipur

Today, you will travel back to Delhi by train. We will transfer you to the airport in time for your return flight home.