POP-UP

For a thrilling, fun-filled cultural experience, pop-up itineraries take advantage of the country’s rich festival calendar.

From October 28-31 this year, Ravishing India has scheduled a four-day, three-night trip to Amritsar, in the northwestern state of Punjab, to coincide with Diwali, the “Festival of Lights”. Those who visit are guaranteed a mesmerizing experience, for a popular Punjabi adage says that “home-cooked food and Amritsar’s Diwali have no parallels.”

While guests will wander the bazaars and go sightseeing by day, the true magic of Diwali begins after nightfall on the 30th. Amritsar’s spectacular Golden Temple, the holiest pilgrimage site for Sikhs, is draped in a host of colorful lights, and gigantic firecrackers are burst open by specialists called aatishbazi. The temple complex takes center stage for a fireworks display at 7 p.m., and guests will join tens of thousands of Sikhs and Hindus in one of India’s largest Diwali celebrations.

Guests can also join an eye-opening journey to the state of Nagaland in India’s less-visited northeast from November 29 to December 12. The itinerary centers on the annual Hornbill Festival, in which the 16 warrior tribes of Nagaland congregate for a colorful pageant showcasing their traditional religious ceremonies, performances, sports such as archery and wrestling, crafts, and cuisine.

For much of the trip, travelers will stay at Kohima Camp in Angami Naga country. Set in the foothills of Japfu Peak—the second-highest mountain in Nagaland at 3,048 meters—the camp is only open for 10 days each winter to coincide with the Hornbill Festival. Here, glamping brings you closer to the land without compromising on creature comforts. The tented accommodation is individually designed, with en-suite bathrooms, crisp linen, and butler service included.