A country of 1.3 billion people and 1.3 million square miles can never be seen in one trip – or even in several. Best to select a target and enjoy the carnival of colour and controlled chaos which defines it – Delhi with its Victorian architecture; Goa and its lovely beaches; rising Kolkata (Calcutta) with a food scene that surprises; calmer Kerala, all waterways and houseboats in the dreamy south; glorious Rajasthan with its temples and palaces in Jaipur and Jodhpur. Even these only scratch the surface of a truly sensational destination.
Must see: India's biggest and most populous metropolis, Mumbai lives up to its image as a maze of culture, clutter and charm. This is the glamorous home of Bollywood, but my lasting memories of the city are more humble – shopping for shirts and saris in Colaba, drinking tea in Iranian cafe Britannia & Co, savouring the sunset upon Chowpatty Beach.
This 8-day extravaganza will take you through the fascinating, ever-changing vistas of an ancient and vibrant India from its capital in Delhi to its leading metropolis of Mumbai. Explore the glorious Taj Mahal in Agra, the sparkling city of Jaipur, the lakes and the glorious palaces at Udaipur and the stunning monuments of Vadodara.
From the lush green valleys of Darjeeling’s tea gardens, travel overland to marvel at Sikkim’s superb landscapes and a spectacular view of the Himalayas. Cross into Bhutan’s southern border at Phuntsholing. Head north to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, to begin an in-depth immersion into the culture and traditions of this remote Himalayan kingdom.
From the lush green valleys of Darjeeling’s tea gardens, travel overland to marvel at Sikkim’s superb landscapes and a spectacular view of the Himalayas. Visit the exquisite nurseries in Kalimpong before crossing into Bhutan’s southern border at Phuntsholing. Head north to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan.
From the Bay of Bengal coast to the backwaters of Kerala, discover the delights of South India by road and private houseboat. Explore ancient Shore Temples, see Dravidian art and architecture at Mahabalipuram, historic palaces, and wild elephants in Periyar National Park.
North India is home to some of the finest and the rarest wildlife and wildlife sanctuaries. The suggested itinerary takes you to the wildlife sanctuaries in North India; Corbett National Park, Ranthambore National Park, Kanha, and Bharatpur National Park. The best time to visit India for wildlife safaris is from October to March.
Explore some of northern India’s most famous cities. Take a walk into the old city of Varanasi, witness an Aarti on the banks of the Ganges, see erotic temples, visit Orchha's temples before spending time in India's famed Golden Triangle. This itinerary allows you to experience Northern India's greatest monuments, culture and traditions.
Lose yourselves in this fascinating tour of Rajasthan with your private guide and driver. See the golden sands of the beautiful Thar desert, rugged forts, beautiful palaces and serene lakes. Catch a glimpse of the Royal Bengal tiger at Ranthambore, enjoy the soulful music and lively Rajasthani dances.
Experience the sights and sounds and colours of railway travel in India as you take the express from Delhi to Kalka. Board the Toy Train and witness timeless, magical scenes as the narrow gauge line winds 100km along precipitous mountain ledges, up through tunnels and over fairy-tale bridges to the hill station.
The South Indian style of temple architecture is called the Dravida Style of Temple Architecture. The Vimana and the Gopurams characterise this style of architecture. As with all our India holidays, this is a private tour with your personal driver/guide and can be amended in any way to incorporate your specific interests.
Explore Cochin’s colonial buildings and Fort Cochin’s narrow streets. Learn all about tea at the Munnar tea plantations, join a boat safari to explore Periyar’s wildlife. Learn to make your own stationery, indulge in an Ayurvedic massage before relaxing on one of the glorious beaches of Kerala, truly God’s own country.
