grand tour india

Jeremy Clarkson Banned From India And Two Other Countries

Clarkson's global controversies: from india to argentina and beyond.

Ah, Jeremy Clarkson . A man of wit, sarcasm, and unmistakable charm, he’s made a name for himself by pushing the boundaries of television journalism with both Top Gear and The Grand Tour . However, while his humour has won millions of hearts worldwide, it hasn’t been universally appreciated, notably by a few nations where he’s seemingly not too welcome in. Let’s dig into the spicy saga of why Jeremy Clarkson is banned from India.

Table of Contents

• On ‘Who Wants To Be A Millionaire’, Jeremy Clarkson mentioned he’s barred from several countries, including India.
• Clarkson’s India ban possibly stems from controversial humour during the 2011 Top Gear India Special, which upset some in the Indian Government.
• The exact reason behind his visa denial is uncertain, with Covid-19 restrictions potentially playing a role.
• In Turkey, Clarkson faced criticisms following the Top Gear Middle East Special for making remarks deemed disrespectful by Turkish media.
• In Argentina, a number plate incident during the Top Gear Patagonia Special caused turmoil, as locals interpreted it as a reference to the 1982 Falklands War. Clarkson and the team had to flee the country amidst rising tensions.

Jeremy Clarkson’s ‘Who Wants To Be A Millionaire’ Admission

During an episode of ‘Who Wants To Be A Millionaire’, Clarkson brought the house down when confronted with a question about the Hindu god Ganesh. Helping the contestant choose the correct answer (which was ‘elephant’), Clarkson took a comedic detour, confessing that he’s barred from several countries, including India.

But why India?

Top Gear Was Behind Clarkson’s Banning From India

The memories hark back to the Top Gear India Special in 2011. Designed as a comical ‘trade mission’, the show witnessed Clarkson and his mates, James May and Richard Hammond, embark on Indian adventures that, unfortunately, ruffled some feathers.

Jeremy Clarkson is banned from India because the team’s humour during the Top Gear episode didn’t sit well with parts of the Indian community. Although it was in good jest, the satirical remarks made during the episode didn’t win him any favours with sections of the Indian Government. Still, whether this incident is the real reason behind Clarkson’s visa denial remains a topic of speculation.

With the onslaught of the Covid-19 pandemic and the stringent travel regulations it imposed, there’s also a possibility that Clarkson’s visa rejection was health-related. Given the showman that Clarkson is, whether he was truly ‘banned’ or merely faced a visa hiccup remains enveloped in mystery.

What Other Countries Is Jeremy Clarkson Banned From?

It’s not just India that seemingly has a bone to pick with Clarkson. The Grand Tour presenter is banned from Turkey after the country wasn’t too pleased with certain remarks made during The Top Gear Middle East Special from Series 16. While the trio’s stay in Turkey was brief, their comments about travel advisories and on-road behaviours drew sharp criticisms from Turkish media, with some outlets even accusing the show of ‘disparaging Turkey.’

And who can forget the notorious episode in Argentina during the Top Gear Patagonia Special? The country was in turmoil when locals interpreted the number plate on Jeremy’s Porsche 928 GT as a snide remark about the 1982 Falklands War between the UK and Argentina. Even though it was a mere coincidence, the incident culminated in attacks on the cars, forcing the Top Gear team to flee the country without their vehicles.

Jeremy Clarkson In the Spotlight

Jeremy Clarkson, never one to shy away from controversy, has managed to embed himself in multiple international incidents, each one adding to his ever-growing legend. From India to Argentina, his journeys, both hilarious and tumultuous, make one thing clear: wherever he goes, he ensures he’s the talk of the town.

While Jeremy’s escapades have occasionally landed him in hot water, they’ve also contributed to his global appeal. Always a magnet for attention, whether it’s on the racetrack or an international stage, Clarkson’s journey is nothing short of exhilarating. One can only wonder which country will be the next chapter in his colourful diary.

Clarkson’s India ban is possibly due to the humour in the 2011 Top Gear India Special which was not well-received by some in the Indian Government. Furthermore, Covid-19 restrictions might have played a role in his visa denial.

Jeremy Clarkson has mentioned being barred from India, Turkey, and Argentina due to various incidents related to his TV shows.

During the Top Gear Patagonia Special, locals interpreted the number plate on Clarkson’s Porsche 928 GT as a reference to the 1982 Falklands War. Despite it being coincidental, the misunderstanding led to the Top Gear team being attacked and forced to flee without their cars.

During The Top Gear Middle East Special from Series 16, certain remarks made by Clarkson and his co-hosts about travel advisories and on-road behaviours in Turkey were perceived as disrespectful by Turkish media, leading to sharp criticisms.

While these incidents have occasionally landed Clarkson in controversy, they have also amplified his global appeal and reputation as a fearless and candid television presenter.

Saajan Jogia

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The Grand Tour

Jeremy, Richard and James embark on an adventure across the globe, driving new and exciting automobiles from manufacturers all over the world. Jeremy, Richard and James embark on an adventure across the globe, driving new and exciting automobiles from manufacturers all over the world. Jeremy, Richard and James embark on an adventure across the globe, driving new and exciting automobiles from manufacturers all over the world.

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Censorship in India resulted in Episode 4 of The Grand Tour being cut in half

It has been revealed that Amazon has censored the fourth episode of The Grand Tour for Amazon Prime customers who reside in India, in an effort to avoid controversy. The company decided to heavily censor the episode in India, cutting down the hour long length to just 30 minutes.

Censorship is common in the country, with sex scenes often blurred out or cut from movies or TV shows entirely, but – with just over half a programme being cut – Amazon has received several complaints about The Grand Tour in particular, one report calling the censorship ‘heavy handed’. The segment in question that was cut included ‘cow body organs’ being placed on a car.

Amazon has since defended the censorship, revealing that the cuts were made with ‘Indian cultural sensitivities in mind’, cows being held in high stature by numerous Indian communities.

Amazon is a responsible company and we are here to entertain the Indian customer with award-winning content from the US along with blockbusters from Indian and regional makers,” the company told Mashable India in a statement. “We will keep Indian cultural sensitivities in mind while offering this content to customers.”

Freak accident on The Grand Tour set in Morocco

Audi q2 1.6 tdi se review, related posts, ‘funeral for a ford’ – the grand tour series 3 episode 14 preview, ‘survival of the fattest’ – the grand tour series 3 episode 13 preview, ‘legends and luggage’ – the grand tour series 3 episode 12 preview, james may is our man in…japan, ‘sea to unsalty sea’ – the grand tour series 3 episode 11 preview, ‘the youth vote’ – the grand tour series 3 episode 10 preview.

I already don’t like my country. This makes me hate it more .

Brilliant confirmed Christmas Namibia 2 part special on 30/31 of December . Glad we didn’t have to wait until episode 11 and 12

WTF is wrong with the bloody Indian government just because it’s got scenes of cows bones which were taken from restaurants doesn’t mean that it’s racist arseholes. Many Indians eat cows why don’t you call that racist bastards . Everything British is bad for India nowadays. How the mighty have fallen

I find this censorship unnecessary because Discovery shows Man vs Wild without any editing in India which you cannot watch while eating. Don’t get me wrong I really like Man vs Wild.

Amazon fear too much and that is unnecessary. The number of people who watch Grand tour in India is very less. Watching shows via the Internet is still infancy in India.

I am an Indian and I am not offended by this. I am also a vegetarian. Watched this via torrent and its okay (I also have an Amazon prime account).

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Spend a little longer in India with Distant Journeys, and delve deeper into the heart of this mystical and mesmerising country, with our Grand Tour of India.

From the foothills of the Himalayas to the palm-fringed beaches of Kerala, our Grand Tour travels the length of this beautiful, complex country and explores in depth the places, people and cultures that define India. We visit shimmering temples and golden palaces, see snow-capped mountains and fragrant spice plantations, vibrant, colourful cities and silent, sleepy backwaters.

Our Grand Tour also includes some very special experiences; a ride on the UNESCO Toy Train to Shimla, safaris in Ranthambore National Park and a night onboard a traditional Keralan houseboat.

There will be a maximum of 24 people per departure on our India touring holidays. As a guest in a small group, you will find both the space and time to enjoy a number of included special experiences that wouldn’t be possible within the confines of a larger group. Journey beyond the best-known sights and enjoy exclusive activities with your travelling companions, who will soon become friends as you make memories that will last a lifetime.

If you want to extend your stay a little longer, then our relaxing three night Keralan Beach Stay is the prefect way to bring your Indian adventure to a close.

Distant Journeys offer Private Touring on the Grand Tour of India, as with our other India tour itineraries. Surprisingly affordable, Private Touring includes the same wonderfully thought-out itinerary and carefully chosen hotels, with the added bonus of your own friendly and knowledgeable guides, your own private vehicle and your own choice of departure date.

Save up to £200 per person  on all India tours departing from September 2024 when you  book by 1st July 2024.

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In-flight meals and drinks

Delhi, 2 nights

After transiting in Abu Dhabi, we arrive in Delhi and transfer to either the heritage-styled Maidens Hotel, or the delightful Leela Ambience Hotel. This evening, we will enjoy a welcome drink with our Tour Manager and fellow travellers to become acquainted and learn more about our forthcoming adventures.

In-flight meals, drinks and dinner

Enjoy a full day of sightseeing as we explore Old and New Delhi. Begin the day with a pleasant rickshaw ride through Old Delhi; travel via the lavish Red Fort – palace of the Mughal Empire. Visit Jama Masjid, India’s largest and most spectacular mosque, and experience Chandni Chowk, the bustling and colourful market of the old city. It’s an action-packed morning, concluding with a street food walk in Old Delhi, showcasing a range of authentic Dilli food bursting with all sorts of mouth-watering flavours. We continue to New Delhi to visit the iconic India Gate and celebrated Parliament House, and continue to Humayun’s Tomb. Our tour concludes at a UNESCO World Heritage Site and 13th century masterpiece, Qutub Minar – India’s famed red sandstone and white marble minaret.

Breakfast and dinner

Shimla, 2 nights

Tour Highlight

After breakfast, we transfer to New Delhi Railway Station to board our train to Kalka. From Kalka, we board the UNESCO recognised Toy Train on its meandering journey through the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains towards Shimla, famed for being the summer retreat of the British colonial government in the 19th century. This distinctive train offers incomparable views of the surrounding landscapes. We spend our next two nights at the iconic Oberoi Cecil Hotel . Originally built in 1884, this beautiful grand heritage hotel continues to maintain its colonial charm and classic elegance.

Breakfast, packed lunch and dinner

Our day begins with a visit to Kufri, a tiny hill station located near Shimla, renowned for its wonderful views and walking trails. Later we enjoy a leisurely walking tour around Shimla, witnessing heritage buildings including the Gaiety Theatre, a restored Gothic construction extraordinarily adorned with papier-mâché! Our tour also visits the General Post Office, and Viceregal Lodge, the most historically significant colonial building of the region, displaying incredible architecture. Later, we have the option to join the Sleeping Beauty Trail , where more of Shimla’s history will be revealed.

Amritsar, 2 nights

Bidding farewell to magical Shimla we journey to Chandigarh in a series of smaller vehicles, which are best suited to the mountainous terrain. Following lunch, we continue in the afternoon to the heritage city of Amritsar, where its magnificent Golden Temple and beautiful blend of culture, history and tradition await. Our hotel for the next two nights is the Le Meridien Amritsar.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Undoubtedly our highlight today is a visit to the magnificent Golden Temple, one of the most spiritual places in India. We explore the complex, including the incredible community kitchens which produce up to 20,000 meals per day, all prepared by local volunteers. We continue to Jallianwala Bagh, a historic garden and memorial of great national importance. We also experience the Partition Museum – the world’s first museum dedicated to the Partition of 1947, telling stories through oral histories, personal artefacts, letters, photographs, and original documents of the millions affected during the Partition. This afternoon we drive out to the India – Pakistan border. Here we shall enjoy a musical spectacular known as the beating retreat ceremony who put on a mesmerising show that is bound to thrill!

Agra, 2 nights

After breakfast, we travel to the airport and board our flight to Delhi. On arrival, we drive to Agra, home to the magnificent Taj Mahal. Our home for two nights is the conveniently located, first class Agra Trident Hotel .

We start our day with a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, India’s most iconic monument. The Taj Mahal is carved from stunning ivory-white marble and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Mughals were at the peak of their power and wealth during Shah Jahan’s reign and it is believed that over 20,000 stone carvers, masons and artists were employed to build this monument to love and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Later, we continue to Agra Fort, a commanding 16th-century red sandstone fortress. The remainder of the day is at leisure, to relax or explore Agra’s many other delights.

Ranthambore, 2 nights

We depart Agra this morning bound for Ranthambore National Park. En route, we visit the famous Chand Baori Step Well, built over a thousand years ago. Enjoy lunch in the lush, rustic countryside setting of Umaid Palace. Spread over 20 acres of leafy land, this organic retreat is a relaxing indulgence far from the bustle of the city. We continue to Ranthambore, and our home for the next two nights, either the Ranthambore Kothi Hotel or The Tigress Hotel . This evening, we prepare for the exciting day ahead with a fascinating tiger talk by an expert local naturalist.

Ranthambore

We begin the day with an early safari in Ranthambore National Park by shared canter vehicles. Ranthambore is one of the largest national parks in northern India, and renowned for its majestic Bengal tigers. We hope to witness these magnificent and elusive predators roaming in their natural habitat. Later this afternoon we continue exploring the park further. Keep a look out for some of Ranthambore’s other wildlife including crocodiles, sloth bears, monkeys, sambar deer, and over 250 species of bird, whilst taking in the stunning scenery.

Jaipur, 3 nights

Enjoy a morning at leisure to spend as you please. After lunch we continue our journey to Jaipur, and the deluxe Trident Hotel . This evening enjoy a cooking demonstration and dinner at a local family home, providing a unique opportunity to experience traditional local life.

Following breakfast, we travel a short distance to meet our waiting jeeps, which will take us to a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the magnificent Amber Fort. Set amidst dramatic pink hills and overlooking Maota Lake, the nostalgic Amber Fort is a fabulous example of Rajput architecture. Our afternoon is at leisure to spend as we please. In the evening, why not take an optional guided walk and visit the old stables which were converted into a market? Closely observe the gathering of local milk-sellers, promoting their products for the production of delicious Indian sweets, or meander through the neighbouring eateries serving local delicacies.

We embark on a city sightseeing tour, visiting the stunning City Palace; the famed astronomical architecture dating back to 1734, Jantar Mantar; and a drive past the distinctive Hawa Mahal, an extraordinary pink and red sandstone palace, widely known as the ‘Palace of Winds.’ This afternoon we visit the Bollywood Theatre, Raj Mandir Palace, considered the finest cinema hall in Jaipur, and famed for its opulent interiors.

Udaipur, 2 nights

Following breakfast, we leave Jaipur behind and begin our journey to Udaipur, the crown jewel in the state of Rajasthan, and commonly known as the ‘City of Lakes’. Following lunch we continue our journey, arriving in Udaipur late afternoon. Our next two nights will be spent at the delightful Trident Hotel , or the charming Chunda Haveli.

Sightseeing today includes the City Palace, Rajasthan’s largest citadel; Jagdish Temple, a Hindu shrine dating back to 1651; and a drive around Fateh Sagar Lake and Sahelion-ki-Bari. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch of authentic local Mewari cuisine at the delightful Garden Restaurant. This evening we join a boat ride on Lake Pichola, whilst visiting Jag Mandir, the Lake Garden Palace.

Mumbai, 2 nights

After a leisurely morning exploring the beautiful Udaipur further, We fly to Mumbai. On arrival we transfer to the five-star Trident Hotel, Nariman Point , which will be our home for the next two nights.

This morning we take a short tour of Mumbai, visiting Mani Bhawan, a museum dedicated to Ghandi; the Prince of Wales Museum; Victoria Terminus, open-air Laundromat; Dhobi Ghat and the iconic Gateway of India. This afternoon we join a pleasant boat ride across the Bay of Mumbai to visit the Elephanta Caves, an intriguing UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to the Hindu God, Shiva.

Cochin, 2 nights

Today there is an optional pre-breakfast tour of Mumbai by dawn, where we take a special peek into the underbelly of working Mumbai – an insight into what makes this magnificent city tick – in the company of an expert guide. Following breakfast and a leisurely morning, we transfer to the airport boarding our flight to Cochin. Cochin is the Malabar Coast’s most historic port, and traditionally the place from where India’s invaluable spices were shipped to Europe. On arrival we transfer to the charming Trident Cochin Hotel .

Today in Cochin begins with a visit to see Mattancherry Palace’s exquisite murals. We also experience the entrancing Fort Cochin, where Chinese fishing nets – vast cantilevered contraptions that still work to this day – line the shore. This evening we experience a show with a 2,000 year old history, during a traditional Kathakali dance performance. Later enjoy an Anglo-Indian cookery lesson and dinner at a local family house.

Alleppey, Overnight

Our travels today take us to Alleppey for one of the true highlights of our tour – an overnight experience on a traditional, thatch-roofed ‘kettuvallam’ houseboat . Journey through the Keralan backwaters with their labyrinth of canals, waterways, coconut groves, rice fields, hidden temples and tiny islands. This incredible adventure is one you will savour for many years to come!

Thekkady, 2 nights

We bid farewell to our houseboat and begin our scenic journey to Thekkady. As we traverse through the mountainous countryside of thick jungle and vast carpets of tea bushes, the aroma of spices fill the air. Later we arrive at our hotel, the wonderful Spice Village , located in a spice garden within the cool highlands of Periyar. This evening experience a traditional, ancient Indian martial arts performance, prior to dinner.

This morning, we explore a spice plantation to discover the mysteries of the Indian tea and spice industry. After lunch we enjoy a tranquil lake cruise (subject to water levels) to take in the sights and sounds of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. We keep our eyes peeled for elephants as well as sambars, nilgiri langur monkeys, and the 260 recorded species of birdlife.

Cochin, Overnight

We return to the Trident Cochin, for our final night in India. Enjoy dinner as we bid farewell to our travelling companions of the last three and a half weeks.

Depart India / Arrive UK

Early morning, we travel to Cochin Airport for our flight with Etihad Airways, which travels via Abu Dhabi. We arrive into our chosen airport later today.

Breakfast, in-flight meals and drinks

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Departure dates & prices

SAVE up to £200 per person!  Book this tour departing from September 2024, or any of the holidays featured in our India & Sri Lanka brochure, and save up to £200 per person.  Offer ends 1st July 2024.

To allow you to obtain a greater appreciation for the fascinating sights that you will see, we limit the group size on this tour to a maximum of 24 guests. For a really intimate touring feeling, you could travel with your own party as a private touring group. Private Tour Supplements to the main tour price for private tours are available here

Prices Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin or double room.

Single occupancy supplement September 2023: £995. October 2023: £1,245. January – March 2024: £1,345. September 2024: £995. October 2024 – March 2025: £1,245. September 2025: £1,095. October 2025 – March 2026: £1,295.

Deposit £500 per person if travelling Economy Class and £1,500 per person for Business Class.

Flight upgrades Etihad Airways upgrade to Business Class from £2,895 per person return.

Visa information A Tourist visa is required for travel to India. For more information on applying for your visa and the associated costs, please refer to our  FAQ’s  page.

Important information Our holiday prices are subject to fuel surcharges and the availability of flights in the lowest fare booking class. The correct price will always be confirmed to you before you book, and once you have booked, our Price Promise will guarantee there will be no further increases. For full terms and conditions see our  terms and conditions   page.

Private Touring Supplements

Should you prefer to take the Grand Tour of India as a private tour, please add the relevant supplement below to the main tour price.

Guests choosing a private tour may select their own departure date.

Please note, alternative airlines may be considered or further supplements may apply in certain periods when international flight prices are higher.

So much included

From start to finish, each of Distant Journeys escorted India tours are meticulously planned and offer exceptional value. We include return international flights from the UK, overseas transport in modern air-conditioned coaches, hotel porterage for your luggage, all pre-payable airport and resort taxes, the services of a knowledgeable Tour Manager and all the entrance fees to the many incredible places and monuments you will visit. Great food is a highlight of any tour of India, and we make sure you have plenty of opportunity to taste the country’s finest cuisine by including dinner every day, as well as daily breakfast and several lunches too.

Small group touring

• Maximum only 24 passengers

Flights with leading scheduled airlines

• Return economy class flights
• Fly with Etihad Airways via Abu Dhabi from London Heathrow. Flights from Manchester may be possible
• All domestic flights within India
• All airport charges, security charges and any applicable fuel surcharges
• UK Air Passenger Duty

Carefully selected hotels

• First class and deluxe hotels in great locations
• All hotel porterage
• Applicable hotel taxes

Many meals worth £919 per person

• Daily breakfast
• Seven lunches
• Dinner each evening

Unforgettable experiences

• Sightseeing tours in Delhi, Shimla, Amritsar, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Mumbai and Cochin
• Travel to Shimla onboard the UNESCO Toy Train
• The Golden Temple of Amritsar
• Wagah-Attari border ceremony
• Visit the iconic Taj Mahal
• Naturalist tiger talk and safaris in Ranthambore National Park
• Experience dinner at a local family home in Jaipur
• Jeep ride and tour of Amber Fort, Jaipur
• Boat ride on Lake Pichola, Udaipur
• UNESCO World Heritage Site of Elephanta Caves, Mumbai
• Ango-Indian cookery lesson, Cochin
• Explore the Keralan backwaters on board a kettuvallam houseboat

On the ground

• Services of an experienced local Tour Manager
• All overseas transfers
• Modern, air-conditioned coaches throughout

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• Your holiday is fully ATOL protected

Hand-picked hotels

All the hotels on our tours to India are carefully selected by our travel experts to ensure they meet the high standards that they understand are essential to the enjoyment of a touring holiday. Throughout your tour, you will stay in a fine selection of hotels, all of which have been chosen for their location and standard of accommodation, but which all have a certain special something that sets them apart from the rest.

• Maidens Hotel, Delhi
• The Oberoi Cecil, Shimla

Trident Hotel, Agra

Ranthambore kothi hotel, ranthambore, the tigress, ranthambore, trident hotel, jaipur, trident hotel, udaipur.

• Trident Hotel Nariman Point, Mumbai

Trident Hotel, Cochin

Houseboat, alleppey, spice village hotel, thekkady.

Heritage Maidens Hotel, Delhi

The Oberoi Cecil Hotel, Shimla

Trident Hotel, Mumbai

Make the most of your free time in India and explore further with our selection of optional excursions. For the majority of experiences you don’t have to decide before you leave the UK – you can let your Tour Manager know what you’d like to do while you are on holiday.

Shimla: Sleeping Beauty Trail

One of the seven hills that surround Shimla, Elysium Hill is the highest point in Shimla and an amazing vantage point for splendid views of the city. Our walk on Elysium Hill is known as the Sleeping Beauty Trail, and during this insightful tour we will learn how Shimla has evolved over the years.

Udaipur: Meet the Women of Sadhna

Sadhna is a social enterprise established in 1988 to provide alternative means of livelihood for women in Udaipur’s rural and impoverished areas. Starting with just a small group of 15 women, it has grown to a large family of 714 women artisans, who create exquisite traditional handicrafts.

Mumbai: Mumbai By Dawn

It is a rare privilege to see the beginning of the day in a city as busy and crowded as Mumbai; to witness the underbelly of Mumbai as it greets the dawn, and to gain an insight into what makes this magnificent city tick.

Why not finish your Indian adventure with a relaxing three-night stay with a Keralan Beach Stay?

Kerala Beach Stay - Grand Tour of India

3 nights from £495pp

Find out more >

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