India
India is one of the most diverse, exciting countries on earth. It has a colourful way of life, with vibrant cities, amazing temples and scenery you just won’t believe which is why one holiday there just isn’t enough.
On the initial ‘bucket list’ would be Rajasthan and the Golden Triangle in the north. A trip to India really wouldn’t be complete without visiting Agra and the Taj Mahal, or a balloon ride over Jaipur or Udaipur on the shores of Lake Pichola.
There is a lot more to the country through, with stunning scenery – especially in the Himalayas, spotting Tigers in the Ranthambore National Park, or in the South with the Keralan Backwaters, the French colonial town of Puducherry or the ornate architecture in Mysore.
Essential Information
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Through the Winter, from October to April
FLIGHT TIME
Around 9 hours to either Delhi or Mumbai, longer for connecting flights through the country, or alternative connecting hub in the Middle East.
TIME ZONE
GMT/BST +4.5
CURRENCY
Indian Rupee
IDEAL FOR
Culture, history and wildlife – including some of the best places in the world to view Tigers in the wild.
HOW TO GET THERE
Direct flights are available daily from Heathrow to both Delhi and Mumbai, as well as regular services to Bangalore, Chennai and Amritsar.
LANGUAGE
Hindi is spoken by 40% of the population, with the remaining 60% speaking over 30 different languages.
IDEAL TO COMBINE WITH
Combine the cultural triangle in the north with a beach stay in Goa or Kerala, or maybe combine with nearby Sri Lanka.
Our Favourite Places in India
Suggested Itineraries
Classic India
16 day holiday
Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi, Jodhpur, Udaipur
This 16-day Classic India itinerary begins in Delhi, where guests settle in and explore the city’s rich contrasts—from the vibrant lanes of Old Delhi to the wide boulevards of Lutyens’ New Delhi. Highlights include a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, visits to Jama Masjid, Raj Ghat, and the historical Qutb Minar. From there, the journey continues to Varanasi, one of India’s most sacred cities. Here, travellers experience the spiritual Ganga Aarti ceremony, an early morning boat ride on the Ganges, and explore nearby Sarnath, a significant Buddhist site.
The itinerary then leads to Lucknow, known for its grand colonial-era architecture and vibrant culture. A train ride brings the group from Varanasi to the city, where they visit the Residency Complex, Islamic shrines, and traditional bazaars. Next, the group travels to Agra to witness the Taj Mahal at sunrise, followed by visits to Agra Fort and the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daula. On the way to Jaipur, stops include Fatehpur Sikri and the Chand Baori stepwell. In Jaipur, the group explores the hilltop Amber Fort, City Palace, and the astronomically aligned Jantar Mantar.
Travellers then venture west to Jodhpur, home to the towering Mehrangarh Fort and the lively Sadar Bazar. A scenic drive through the Aravalli Hills includes a visit to the intricately carved Jain temples at Ranakpur before reaching Udaipur, known for its serene lakes and elegant palaces. After sightseeing in Udaipur’s old town and City Palace complex, guests return to Delhi for an overnight stay before departing for home.
RAJASTHAN: LAND OF KINGS
15day holiday
Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Manvar, Udaipur
This 15-day journey through northern India begins in Delhi, where travellers enjoy a welcome dinner and a full-day city tour showcasing the contrasts between the historic Old Delhi and the more elegant architecture of New Delhi. From there, the group travels to Agra to visit the grand Agra Fort and the intricate tomb of Itmad-ud-Daula, with a sunrise viewing of the iconic Taj Mahal the following day. The route continues to Jaipur, with en route visits to the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri and the remarkable stepwell at Abhaneri. In Jaipur, guests explore Amber Fort, the City Palace, and other landmarks of the ‘Pink City’.
The journey moves deeper into Rajasthan with a visit to Bikaner and its imposing Junagarh Fort before heading west to the sandstone city of Jaisalmer. Here, travellers explore the striking hilltop fort and its maze of alleys, merchant homes, and temples, followed by a desert experience at Manvar, complete with traditional folk music under the stars. Jodhpur, known as the ‘Blue City’, is next. Highlights include a jeep safari to meet the Bishnoi tribes and a visit to the dramatic Mehrangarh Fort and royal cenotaphs at Jaswant Thada.
The final leg of the journey leads to the scenic city of Udaipur via the Jain temples at Ranakpur. In Udaipur, known for its lakes and palaces, guests enjoy a guided city tour including the opulent City Palace complex and a serene sunset cruise. The itinerary concludes with a return flight to Delhi for an overnight stay before onward departures the next day.
Golden Temple and the Himalayas
11 day holiday
Amritsar, Dharamsala, Pragpur, Shimla, Delhi
This 11-day itinerary begins in Amritsar, where guests settle into their hotel and enjoy a welcome dinner. The following day includes a guided tour of the old city, a moving visit to Jallianwala Bagh, and time at the Golden Temple, the most important site in Sikhism. Visitors can also experience the unique langar community meal. In the afternoon, the group travels to the India-Pakistan border at Wagah for the famously theatrical flag-lowering ceremony.
The journey continues north into the Himalayan foothills to Dharamsala, home of the Dalai Lama. Highlights include a visit to the Norbulingka Institute and a day exploring the Tibetan quarter of McLeod Ganj, with its monasteries and temples. After a scenic drive to the heritage village of Pragpur, guests enjoy leisurely walks through cobbled lanes, a picnic lunch, and a visit to a nearby tea estate. An optional ride on the Kangra heritage railway is also available.
From Pragpur, the route climbs into the Shivalik Hills to Shimla, once the summer capital of British India. Over three nights here, the tour includes visits to colonial-era landmarks such as the Vice Regal Lodge, Christ Church, and the lively Mall Road. A short ride on the iconic toy train adds a nostalgic touch. There’s also free time to relax, with the option of a round of golf at the Naldehra course. The journey concludes with a scenic train ride from Kalka to Delhi and an overnight stay before departure.
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We would be delighted to talk about your holiday arrangements over the phone. You can contact us between 8am and 10pm every day (outside of office hours may not be immediate).
01442 879787
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Our office is open 9:30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday (excluding Bank Holidays). If you wish to make an appointment, please either call or send a message, although it’s not compulsory.
