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Fully Guided Tours & Trips in India

Find the right fully guided tour for you in India. There are 2366 trips to choose from, that range from one day in length, up to 50 days. The month with the most departures is May, making it the most popular time to visit India.

250+ Fully Guided tour packages in India with 9,067 reviews

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Indian Getaway

We enjoyed the cities we visited, even though Varanasi was flooded and we arrived super late to Agra. The heritage stay was nice and the optional tour added a great amount to understanding the area.

Golden Triangle

An amazing journey that I thoroughly enjoyed on The Golden Triangle Tour. I loved learning about the culture and seeing such beautiful architecture and hearing the wonderful associated stories. The Kite festival was brilliant, our tour guide 'Manu' was helpful and friendly at all times and added a personal touch to our group,he was very knowledgeable. I fully recommend the 'cooking class' in Jaipur and of course the highlight of the tour was the Taj Mahal. All the places we stayed were great except The Hotel Grand Park Inn, Delhi, the staff were lovely but the rooms were cold and damp with mould in the bathrooms, grubby linen and general cleanliness was lacking, as there was no communal area to go sit or meet others, I felt confined to my room, not the best place to start and finish an other wise great trip.

India's Golden Triangle

G was an amazing guide. He went above and beyond in every instance to ensure that EVERY passenger was catered for. A wonderful tour with heaps to see and do. The Taj Mahal was my absolute favourite - a dream come true.

5 Days Private Golden Triangle India tour from New Delhi

I have booked a Golden triangle tour of India for my self and 5 other friends from 3-7 March(5 days).. from the start of the booking to the end of our trip all was well organised and very efficiently managed. We had a very good driver Mr Yasmin for the all trip,who couldn’t do enough to be helpful and attentive,we had 4 tour guides in all,and all of them very helpful and professional..The tour company that organised the actual tour in India was based I think in Agra.. the in charge person I think was Ahil and always available for resolving any questions.Will be using tourradar in the future as I know they do tours all over the world..a 5 star experience..Thank you..Vincenzo

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Uncover India: High Deserts & Markets

Amazing experience. Our CEO Shivraj was the group backbone. Without him we wouldn't of enjoyed ourselves so much. From great restaurants to travel arrangements. You could kick back and really enjoy the Indian culture. As a result of the calming atmosphere; one is allowed to make great friends and memories! Thank you Shiv!

India's Bestseller - 5 Day Golden Triangle - Delhi, Agra & Jaipur (Guaranteed Departure)

Our adventure in India was great thanks to our great driver Sita Ram. He was our point of reference as this company has several customer service people. Our guides were all very knowledgeable and we enjoyed every single site. Trip and everything. Hotels were fine 3 star hotels with the exception of the one in Delhi, (Ajanta) that hotel was more like a one star hotel. The one in Agra and Jaipur were great. We loved Phatepur Sikri , Amazing place ! and Ali the tour guide there was one of the most professional guides I’ve ever known . We really learned everything about the place . Overall experience was great! I would definitely use KK holidays again to tour India.

Taj Mahal and Wildlife with Royal Stay at Castles

The tour went above and beyond my expectations. My driver and hotels were excellent.

Taj Mahal, Tiger and Pink City

We had a great time in India. The tour manager Mr. Amit was very responsive to all my questions and issues prior to the trip and was waiting for us to greet us at the first hotel. Our driver Mr. Vikram was great too. He was very professional and was always on time waiting for us each day. We absolutely loved our local guide in Jaipur. He was so professional, knowledgeable and quick that we felt we were very well taken care of. Now here’s the reason I can’t give 5 stars to this tour. It was the hotel in Jaipur and the local guide in Delhi. The hotel was not up to the standard of 3 stars at all. The bathroom was disgusting, moldy and gross. They called us around 10pm asking us to order room service both nights we stayed. It was the most horrible service that I have ever experienced at any hotels around the world. Now the local guide in Delhi, he made us decide to say goodbye after 3 hours. We never had a problem tipping people at all until the rickshaw ride (which was included in the tour). It was such a turn off moment for us when the guide asked us to tip them 200 for a 200 ride. He was also on the personal phone calls a lot, which made us feel that he really didn’t want to be there at all for us. We had to call it a day.

Premium India

Sensational in every aspect. Firstly our tour leader Chandra was exceptional in his knowledge, approachability and care for all 12 of us. The tour was enlightening culturally, stimulating from the history perspective and enjoyable as the group melded really well. Thanks to all involved in putting g Premiun India together.

Colorful India with Taj Mahal & Rajasthan

In general a fantastic experience! Will totally recommend the company to friends and family. I would have only like to have more activities to do like for example in Delhi, the tour end quite soon when there was still many places of interested to see. Gotta praise the punctuality of the drivers and guide tours!

Golden Triangle Tour With Ranthambore

Also wir haben die Tour als Part 2 unserer Indien reise gemacht - waren zuerst im Norden Indiens. Vorab die Tour Operator sind eigentlich immer erreichbar und versuchen alles in ihrer Macht euch eine gute Reise zu ermöglichen. Hier ein paar Eckpunkte. - 8 Tage sind nicht viel für Indien. - Mann ist sehr viel in Städten unterwegs. (Steht aber auch in der Tour Beschreibung) - Städte sind nicht mit europäischen Städten vergleichbar und können anfangs viel für einen sein. (Lautstärke und Gerüche) - Man sitzt viel im Auto (An Reisetagen von 3 -6h) -- Unser Fahrer war sehr nett und unglaublich freundlich. - Die Hotels sind bis auf eines (Lillypool Heritage - war so schlimm das wir das Hotel gewechselt haben) aus unserer Sicht sehr gut gewesen. (Uns war einfach nur wichtig das es sauber sein muss - insbesondere Dusche und Toilette) -- Das Essen in den Hotels war durchwegs sehr gut. Aus unserer Sicht war das Hotel "Royal Regent" hier das beste und hatte das zuvorkommendste Personal. (Subjekte Sicht) - Wenn man weiblich und blond ist oder generell weiß wird man angestarrt und ständig nach Fotos gebeten. -- Tipp für Frauen macht vielleicht nicht mit allen ein Foto ein "Nein" wird grundsätzlich verstanden. ( Es sind mit solchen Fotos nicht immer die guten Absichten im Vordergrund) - Unsere Tour guides waren alle sehr sehr nett - einige wussten mehr andere weniger das selbe im Sinne der englischen Sprache. -- Tipp für Bargeld --- erkundigt euch was wie viel man wem Tipp gibt --- wechselt euer Bargeld in kleine scheine 20/50/100 sind sehr wichtig. Trinkgeld wird grundsätzlich überall "vorausgesetzt" - Essen im allgemeinen -- in die Restaurants in die man "geführt" wird konnten wir gut essen und der Magen hat "gehalten" -- Tipp: Eier und Meeresfrüchte haben wir vermieden -- Wenn ihr Getränke bestellt immer in Dosen oder Flaschen (bei den Flaschen wirklich schauen ob es "knackt" - werden manchmal mit Leitungswasser nachgefüllt - war bei uns jedoch nie der Fall) - Die Safari war unser Highlight, der Nationalpark Ranthambore und unglaublich schön. Wir hatten das Wahnsinns Glück einen Tiger zu sehen. -- Tipp falls möglich immer mit einem Jeep und nicht mit einem "großen" (LKW verschnitt) die Touren zu machen. -- Im jeep seit ihr bis zu 4-5 Personen im LKW verschnitt 20 (mehr muss ich glaub ich nicht mehr sagen) Zusammfassend, bei dieser Reise bekommt man viele Eindrücke man sieht riesige Städte und unglaubliche Bauwerke. In den Städten sieht man weit nicht alles weil dafür sind ein oder zwei Tage einfach zu wenig. Man sieht ein paar schöne Monumente und ein wenig von der Stadt. Unser absolutes Highlight war die Safari, eine entspannende Abwechslung zu dem sonst so hektischen Geschehen in den Städten. Hier nur eine kleine Bemerkung am Rande schaut euch die Natur an und genießt es die doch so andere Natur zu sehen. Geht nicht mit der Erwartung rein Tiger zu sehen. Alles in allem eine gelungene Reise.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi

The tour was wonderful overall. The guides were all extremely knowledgeable and they and the drivers were very accommodating. The staff/tour operators were also perfectly responsive in answering all my questions before the tour (and which helped my confidence that I would be in good hands as I chose the tour only after finding tourradar/WTX randomly from a Google search online) as well as perfectly communicative with me during the tour so that I always knew who would be picking me up and when with the drivers’ contact info. always provided, etc. The only complaint I would have was I didn’t care for the frequent inclusion of stops at various shops in the itinerary as I often felt pressure from the shopkeepers to buy some of their items. While I didn’t mind seeing some of their merchandise I would have preferred simply observing that with no pressure to buy anything (unless I asked to) and even though they would typically say there would be no pressure I felt this frequently. In general though the tour was excellent and I was extremely happy with my experience with WTX.

Golden Triangle Tour - 3 Days

It was a great journey.

Luxury 3 Day Golden Triangle With 5 star Hotel

We just completed a GREAT three-day Golden Triangle tour of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. First, I have to say our driver, Khan, must have gotten his amazing driving skills in another world! He navigated the most difficult roads and situations with ease, making sure we were comfortable and safe the whole time. When visiting a new place, this is so important! He also pointed out a lot of sites and gave us additional points on Indian cultural, all is great English. The daily tour guides did an excellent job too. Each one had an incredible amount of historical, cultural, and societal knowledge and was happy to share with us. It’s was a fast trip, but we saw and learned a lot. I highly recommend this trip to anyone interested in seeing a slice on Indian life and learning about Indian culture.

Explore Golden Triangle

Amit was very helpful in planning a 2-day solo trip for me in Delhi and a 5-day Golden Triangle Tour for my sister and I. He suggested extra programs in Delhi (light and water show at Akshardham Temple), Agra (dance show or Sheroes Hangout Cafe and renting sarees to take pictures during the sunrise tour of the Taj Mahal), and Jaipur (food walk tour and visiting Nahargarh Fort and Jaigarh Fort). All communication with Amit was prompt and informative. Vikram, our driver, made us feel safe and secure. He was very attentive in providing extra bottles of water during the hot days, umbrellas during the monsoon rain, and in finding vegan food options for me and mild, non-spicy Indian food for my sister. Vikram went above and beyond and made us feel instantly welcome in India easing initial apprehension about traveling alone as women. The tour guides Neeraj in Delhi, Dilip in Agra, and Raj in Jaipur (please excuse any misspelled names) spoke excellent German and showed us the sights in the cities they love and know well. We saw everything that interested us and learned a lot. The hotels, we asked to upgrade to from 3 stars to 4 stars. Especially Shapura House in Jaipur was excellent - friendly staff, great accomodations with all amenities you can think of, and wonderful breakfast buffets with life cooking and many good options. We were pleasantly surprised to see a dance show and puppet show at Shapura House. Raj also took us to a textile place and my sister got to print an elephant with four different vegetable colors and stamps on fabric. We have recommended Yolo India Tours to friends and family and won't hesitate to book through them again.

What people love about Fully Guided Tours in India

Very informative,a bit of a challenge ,had a great time.

Although I LOVED everything about this trip, I have to say that the experience was 10 times enhanced by our amazing CEO, Manvendra. He went above and beyond and truly made this the trip of a lifetime

Toll organisierte Rundreise von Delhi über Jaipur und Agra retour nach Delhi. Indien erlebt man in dieser Woche vielseitig und der Tour Guide sorgte nicht nur für eine einwandfreie Organisation sondern hatte haufenweise Details und Geschichten über die indische Kultur zu erzählen.

Regions in India

• Northern India (1550)
• Rajasthan (883)
• Golden Triangle (388)
• Southern India (305)
• Eastern India (115)
• Western India (105)
• Karnataka (78)
• Kerala (68)
• Kashmir (63)
• Maharashtra (52)
• Central India (50)
• Gujarat (46)
• Himachal Pradesh (42)
• Leh & Ladakh (42)
• Tamil Nadu (41)
• Sikkim (30)

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India Tours & Vacations

There’s probably no other country on the planet that blazes its way into your memory like India.

Years later, you can still hear the morning calls of the chai wallahs; see smoke curling over the Ganges during a golden Varanasi sunrise , and smell the rich aromas of simmering curry. A lot of India tours rush from highlight to highlight, ticking them off in a blur of temples and tikka. But not us. Our India holidays are more about spotting Bengal tigers in Ranthambhore or Panna National Park, hanging with nomads in Jaisalmer, meeting the holy men of Pushkar, or hunting down the best street eats. This isn’t just the India you see on postcards. This is India as it is. Raw, bizarre and totally addictive.

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Popular local regions 

India at a glance, capital city.

Delhi (population, 32.94 million)

1.408 billion

Indian Rupees (INR)

Hindi, Urdu, Tamil, Bengali, Kashmiri, Kannada, Marathi, Gujarati, Telugu, English

(GMT+05:30) Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type D (Old British 3-pin) Type M (see D)

Learn more about India

Best time to visit india.

Due to India's size and topography, the climate varies from place to place but the best time to visit, generally speaking, is in the winter from December until early March. During the coolest months (December-January), temperatures can get quite cold in Delhi and in the north, especially at night. The whole country tends to get very hot from April onwards and most regions experience the summer from late May to around October. The summer offers hot and humid conditions, although this is considered one of the best times to visit Ladakh and the hills.

Learn more about the best time to visit India

Culture and customs

India is one of the world’s oldest civilizations with a culture steeped in ancient beliefs and traditions. Religion also plays a massive role in everyday life with 80% of the population practicing Hinduism while the remaining 20% is divided into Muslim (India has the world’s second-largest Muslim population), Christian, Sikhism and Buddhist populations.

At its core, India remains a deeply conservative nation; however, it has been touched by rapid modernization and Western influences in recent years. Some families still adhere to a traditional structure (especially in more rural areas) with generations living under the same roof, the eldest male at the head of the family and arranged marriages. But this is becoming less and less popular, particularly in larger cities, where Western ideas and societal shifts heavily influence the culture due to things like Bollywood films.

While some behavioral standards remain the same (public displays of affection are still taboo), it’s important to keep in mind that with more than one billion people speaking over 122 languages across 28 states and seven territories, it’s impossible to describe one unified culture for the entire nations and the character of India’s people can vary greatly from city to city.

Witness India's multi-faceted culture firsthand on a Delhi to Goa adventure - 15 days

Top places to visit in India

Surely there isn't a more iconic image of India than the Taj Mahal. It's spectacular and soul-stirring, but words simply aren't enough to describe the beauty of this immense mausoleum (even when it's packed with tourists). Best known as a monument to love and loss, the 17th-century building was built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a tomb for his second wife – a bold declaration of love, indeed! Wander around Agra on our 3 day Taj Mahal Extension or on our 15 day Real Kathmandu to Delhi tour.

2. Udaipur, Rajasthan

Welcome to Udaipur, India's most romantic city that could easily give Venice a run for its money. You'll undoubtedly fall in love as you explore its grand marble palaces, shimmering lakes, and winding alleys filled with cozy chai bars and dizzying bazaars. It's also a popular hub for Indian artists, dancers, and musicians whose talents will pull you deeper under Udaipur's spell. Get lost in the beauty of Udaipur on our 15 day Rajasthan Experience or on our 15 day Classic Rajasthan tour.

3. Ranthambhore National Park

Ranthambhore National Park was once a famous hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur, but these days it's a haven for wildlife. Jump into a 4WD and search for Bengal tigers, hyenas, jackals, deer, langurs, marsh crocodiles and more. You can also hike up to the stunning ruins of the 10th-century fort or experience the peace and tranquillity of the ancient Ganesh temple (one of the oldest temples in India). Go wildlife spotting on our 14 day Premium India in Depth tour or on our 10 day Northern India Family Holiday.

4. Kerala Backwaters

Surrounded by tea and coffee plantations and connected by a series of blissful, palm-shaded backwaters, Kerala is a peaceful oasis deep within India's colorful chaos. Float along the dreamy waters of rural Kerala on a houseboat, paddle over to an island village on a pole boat for an overnight homestay with a local family, and enjoy traditional Keralan food served on a banana leaf. Explore the Kerala Backwaters on our 13 day Premium South India tour or on our 13 day Classic South India tour.

5. Varanasi

Varanasi is a place that will be etched in your memory long after your time in India is over. Uncover the stories and secrets of this holy city with your local guide, get lost in the laneways, cruise along the golden Ganges at dawn, or witness ancient religious traditions and groups of pilgrims praying in the river. Even if all you do in Varanasi is sit along the ghats and watch life go by, you'll walk away with countless stories to tell. Experience Varanasi's holiness on our 4 day Varanasi Homestay Extension , on our 11 day India Getaway or on our 11 day Real North India adventure.

This holy desert city is one of the main pilgrimage destinations for Hindus. Explore the bustling ghats and temples around Pushkar Lake, watch devout rituals and worship at the Brahma Temple, share a meal with a local family while learning about their life and culture, or hike up the hill to the beautiful Savitri Temple for unbeatable sunrise views over the town. Embark on a pilgrimage on our 22 day North India Revealed tour or on our 15 day Cycle Rajasthan tour.

Get ready for delicious bites and lots of Bollywood. Some say Mumbai is the food capital of India, and you'll see, smell and taste huge culinary diversity here that celebrates regional cuisines from across the country. You might also like to watch life go by at Dhobi Ghat (the world’s largest outdoor laundry), check out the Bollywood Walk of Fame, or explore the sprawling Crawford Market selling everything from fruit to jewelry. Snack your way through Mumbai on our 15 day India Real Food Adventure .

8. Dharamsala

The mountainous Himalayan town of Dharamsala, also known as McLeod Ganj, is home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile. Tibetan culture is central to life here and it won't take long for the town's calming, grounding energy to wash over you. Sip chai and watch robed monks strolling between the monasteries, listen to the prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and visit the Dalai Lama’s temple. Soak up the Tibetan culture on our 13 day Mountains & Mystics of India tour.

9. Rishikesh

Not only is Rishikesh the yoga capital of the world, but it's also one of the best places to experience the sacred soul of the Ganges. Join a yoga or meditation class along the riverbanks, enjoy delicious vegetarian food in one of the many rooftop cafes, go white-water rafting down the Ganges for a different perspective of this holy river, or experience the nightly fire ritual known as Ganga Aarti at one of the city's dazzling temples. Meditate in Rishikesh on our 19 day Best of India tour.

Tinged with Portuguese influence (and flavors!), the state of Goa boasts lovely beaches, rich traditions, World Heritage-listed buildings and mouth-watering food. Kick back with a coconut (or cocktail), join a yoga class on the beach, visit a local spice farm to learn about some of the essential ingredients in Indian cuisine, or pick up fresh ingredients at the market and cook up a storm with a local Goan cook. Experience Goa on our 37 day Iconic India tour or on our 16 day South India Revealed tour.

The gorgeous pink stone buildings in Jaipur’s old town have earned the city its 'Pink City' nickname. Discover buzzing bazaars filled with handcrafted textiles and jewelry, dodge camel carts and rickshaws as you stroll through the streets, explore the oh-so-impressive Amber Fort, or visit the home of a local Brahmin family to learn about their culture and way of life over a delicious homemade meal. Marvel at Jaipur's pink-hued streets on our 8 day India's Golden Triangle tour or on our 12 day India Women's Expedition.

Home to the magnificent Mysore Palace and the birthplace of Ashtanga yoga, there's no denying Mysore is one of South India's most captivating cities. Lose yourself in the grandeur of the palace's ornately decorated rooms, marvel at the intricate Hoysala architecture of Keshava Temple, go on a hunt for the tastiest idli, or share a tasty biryani lunch with a local family. Explore Mysore on our 15 day Southern India tour.

Delhi is a place where ancient temples stand beside Bollywood billboard ads, people commute to work alongside sacred cows and monkeys, and pockets of peace exist within the chaos. The electric energy of India's capital city is palpable, and while it can take some getting used to, there's no denying the excitement of discovering new sights, sounds, tastes and smells at every turn – especially when you have a local leader by your side. Experience the chaos of Delhi on our 15 day Delhi to Kathmandu tour or on our 9 day North India Highlights tour.

14. Thar Desert, Rajasthan

Check another item off your bucket list as you travel across the pristine dunes of the Thar Desert on camelback, stopping at a few dhanis (small villages) along the way. When you reach your camp, enjoy dinner in the relaxing desert ambiance before sleeping in a comfy permanent tent under the stars. This desert safari is bound to be one of the main highlights of your adventure. Soak into the sand on our 16 day Real Rajasthan tour or on our 11 day Rajasthan Adventure .

Food and drink

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating. Whether you're sampling street food, savoring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. Indian food is one of the world's most favored cuisines, and travelers will be in for a real treat when visiting India. Relying heavily on spices and vegetables, vegetarians will be delighted with the multitude of meat-free dishes available and visitors will be able to notice marked differences in the cuisines of each region.

Read more about Indian food

Read more about Indian drinks

Geography and environment

India shares land borders with   Bangladesh ,   China , Pakistan,   Nepal ,   Myanmar   and   Bhutan , and also has wide stretches of coastline along the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean. As the seventh largest country in the world, India is home to a variety of terrains - the Himalayas of the north, the deserts and plains of the west, the fertile waterways of the south and the hills and forests of the east. Development is occurring at a rapid pace, with India's large, sprawling cities consisting of everything from five star hotels to shanty towns, and with modern malls and cinemas sitting comfortably alongside bazaars and street food vendors. A trip through India will reveal a diverse range of landscapes, villages, cities and environments.

History and government

Early history.

Humans have inhabited India for as long as 75,000 years, with early civilizations flourishing as early as 3300 BC. Over the centuries, India both influenced and was influenced by other nations and kingdoms, with far-reaching trade, conquest and migration spreading the subcontinent's culture far and wide. Empires rose and fell over the centuries, with the wealthy Mughal Dynasty ruling most of India by 1600. At the same time, different European nations started showing an interest in India after being brought to the area for trade. The Portuguese, Dutch, British and French all had vested interests in India, with the British East India Company being given the rights to trade in India in 1617. The 1857 rebellion and War of Independence culminated in the decline of Mughal rule and were considered the first movements against the British Raj's heavy-handed rule of the country.

Recent history

By the 1920s, India's independence movement had grown considerably with Mohandas Gandhi leading mass movements based on passive resistance and non-cooperation against the British Raj. Although it took decades, India finally gained independence in 1947. More recently, India has seen dramatic societal changes mainly due to modernization and globalization. A new wave of prosperity has seen the rise of the middle class, with men and women entering into new work roles in telecommunications, manufacturing and business. India's large cities are dealing with the mass migration of rural citizens, who are moving to the city to seek better employment, education and opportunities for their children.

Top 10 sensory experiences of India

1. potent pleasures.

Breathe in the intoxicating aroma of fresh spices while wandering through the bustling markets of India. Cardamom, coriander, cinnamon and nutmeg are classic spices of the subcontinent and aren't hard to find - the fresh scent envelopes markets across the country.

2. Fiery flavours

Treat your tastebuds to the spicy flavors of India with a traditional aromatic curry. Indulge in the heady mix of coconut milk, chili, ginger, ghee and spices, then cool down by sipping on a refreshing Lassi - the perfect antidote to the unrelenting heat of an Indian curry.

3. Colourful chaos

Experience the urban cacophony of Delhi - a unique collision of cultures, cattle and people. Hear the rumble of cars, trucks and buses, the frantic calls of street vendors and hawkers, the sizzle of food and the rustic ring of a cow's bell in this unforgettable and irrepressible city.

4. In the pink

Admire the dazzling pink hues of Jaipur. Watch the historic palaces, forts, temples and monuments of the 'Pink City' be bathed in a dusky pink glow as the golden sun sets over the dramatic Aravalli Range.

5. Rat race

Walk barefoot through the Karni Mata Temple as thousands of rats scamper across the marble floor. Just felt a furry rodent scurry over your feet? Fear not - it's a sign of good luck in this unique rat-worshipping temple.

6. Instant karma

Experience the multi-sensory wonder of an Aarti ceremony on the banks of the Ganges. Hear the clanging of bells, watch the luminous glow of fire, smell wafts of pungent incense and hear rousing devotional songs and mantras. Be immersed in the fire and prayer of this Hindu ritual and be changed forever.

7. Gorgeous Goa

Sit beachside in Goa and gaze into the sublime beauty of the ocean. Take a moment to kick back and soak up the clear skies and deep blue sea of this exotic island. Watch the sun's rays shimmer on the horizon and bask in the golden glow of this balmy retreat.

8. Silky sophistication

For a slice of extravagance, feel the soft, luxurious touch of traditional Indian silk. Made in a variety of vibrant colors and perfect for making everything from saris to prayer mats and decorative hangings to upholstery, the inimitable feel of finely crafted silk is a simple pleasure in life.

9. Answered prayers

Hear the flutter of prayer flags as they flap in the wind near the isolated monasteries of Dharamsala. In a stark environment of rugged, mountainous landscapes, quietness permeates the air, except for the unique sound of prayer flags collecting prayers and sending them to the heavens above.

10. Big screen brilliance

Be treated to a feast for the senses at a bombastic Bollywood movie screening. Covet the glamorous costumes, marvel at the energetic choreography and delight in the lively music. Revel in the razzle-dazzle of the whole spectacle and be swept away by the irresistible charm of India's triumphant cinematic phenomenon.

India's fragrant bazaars, modern boutiques and village markets are brimming with wares harnessing centuries of artistic traditions. With talented artisans and top quality items at low prices, India is a shopper's paradise. It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in India

From big, chunky ornate silver earrings to vibrant bangles and bold statement rings, India's silversmiths and jewelry makers ensure there are lots of pieces to choose from in the bazaars and shops.

2. Wraps, scarves and shawls

Whether you're looking for pricey pashmina, luxurious silk or colorful cotton, India has a huge variety of materials to wrap yourself in.

If you're lucky enough to be able to bring tea into your home country, then pick up some of the world's finest tea from the Darjeeling, Assam or Nilgiri regions.

Indian cotton sheets, embroidered bedspreads and colorful cushion covers can be picked up in bazaars at a fraction of the price paid elsewhere.

Many shops are open between 9 am and 7 pm, Monday through Saturday, though hours can vary at bazaars. Most shops are closed on Sunday.

Festivals and events in India

Many of India’s biggest festivals are religious and follow either the Indian lunar calendar or the Islamic calendar. The dates may change each year, but the fervor of celebration never does. Some of the best and biggest festivals to keep an eye out for in India are:

Holi (Festival of Colour)

Take a whole lot of colored powder and water, add thousands of happy people not afraid to get a little (or a lot) dirty and you have Holi – a technicolor Hindu celebration that marks the beginning of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Celebrations take place across India in either February or March.

Diwali (Festival of Lights)

India’s biggest festival – meaning ‘rows of lighted lamps’, people decorate their homes with colorful lights, candles are lit and firework displays take place across the country. The celebrations are particularly spectacular in Varanasi, where illuminated candles and earthen lamps are floated down the Ganges River as fireworks light up the sky. This five-day festival takes place every October or November.

Gujarat Kite Festival

Large, colorful and unusual kites flood the skies of Gujarat each January to commemorate the start of summer and the beginning of harvest. Purchase your own at Patang Bazaar, a famous kite market, or just watch the others dance through the sky.

Mumbai Ganesh Festival

The birth of the elephant-headed god, Ganesh, is celebrated for 10-days each August or September in cities across India, but Mumbai takes it to another level. An incredible energy can be felt throughout the city as people pack the streets for a massive party and an elaborate statue of Ganesh is paraded around.

Pushkar Camel Fair

Thousands of camels (and their owners dressed in their finest garb) descend upon Rajasthan's Pushkar for the annual camel fair. Camels are traded and raced, acrobats and performers entertain crowds at a nearby fair, while finely dressed males and bejeweled females take the chance to let their hair down.

Learn more about festivals in India

Further reading

Similar destinations.

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or, see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a variety of locations around India. The options below may be of interest:

Kathmandu to Delhi Tours From Delhi Tours to Delhi

India travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Is it safe to travel to India?

India can be overwhelming sometimes, but it's generally a safe country for travelers and many people enjoy their time without any problems.

Is it safe for women to travel in India?

India can be overwhelming sometimes but most travellers enjoy their time in India without any problems. That said, some regions experience ongoing issues, and there are several things a traveler should keep in mind when traveling through India to minimize their chances of running into any trouble.

Do I need a visa to travel to India?

Yes, all foreigners entering India will need a visa. Whether you can apply for an e-visa is dependent on your nationality, the duration of your India tour and how you plan on entering the country.

This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 22/06/2023

Is tipping customary in India?

While traveling through India, on a tour or otherwise, it’s expected one would tip porters, drivers, restaurant staff and other service workers given the low wages they earn.

What is the internet access like in India?

Internet access is generally very good in India, with most cafes, restaurants and accommodations offering free wi-fi, even in the more rural areas. There is also good phone coverage for data use if you choose to purchase a local SIM card to stay connected for the duration of your India tour.

If you do wish to purchase a local SIM in India, make sure your phone has been unlocked before your tour begins. There are quite a number of carriers that are all very competitive, but Airtel is probably the best option for travelers. You’ll need to a copy of your passport and visa to pick up a SIM, and the process can sometimes be a hassle, but rates in India are very affordable given the competition.

Can I use my cell phone while in India?

Yes, you’ll be able to use your cell phone while on an India tour, but only if you have activated global roaming or purchased a local SIM card.

What are the toilets like in India?

Squat toilets are the most common toilets in India. Always carry your own toilet paper and soap or hand sanitizer, as they are usually not provided. Flushable, Western-style toilets can be found in up-market restaurants, some higher-end hotels and in some tourist areas.

What will it cost for a...?

India’s unit of currency is the rupee:

• Cup of tea = INR 7-10
• Small bottle of beer = INR 150-350
• Meal at a local restaurant (thali, masala dosa or similar) = INR 100-200
• Meal in a tourist restaurant = INR 350-600

Can I drink the tap water in India?

India is notorious among travelers for sickness – we’ve all heard horror stories about Delhi belly. We do not recommend ever drinking tap water in India, and travelers should avoid drinks with ice and foods that haven’t been cooked or peeled. Salad is off the menu for now ­– let your inner child rejoice!

Are credit cards widely accepted in India?

Credit cards are being accepted in an increasing number of cafes, shops, restaurants and hotels in India, with Mastercard and Visa being the most common. That said, cash is still king, especially outside of cities like Kolkata, Delhi and Mumbai.

What is ATM access like in India?

ATMs are widespread across India in both cities and smaller towns. Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus and Maestro are the most commonly accepted cards, but of those Visa and Mastercard are more likely to have success. The daily withdrawal limit differs from bank to bank.

What is the weather like in India?

The weather in India varies from region to region, but it’s generally safe to say that December–February sees dry, cooler weather before the heat intensifies from March–May. June, July and August are the monsoon months, though the amount of rain differs across the country, while October, September and November see rainfall ease once more.

What public holidays are celebrated in India?

India has different classifications of holidays because of the multitude of faiths in the country. There are compulsory holidays and then various others chosen by government offices within each state. The following are the compulsory ‘gazetted holidays’ taken by government offices across India:

• 26 Jan: Republic Day
• Feb/Mar: Maha Shivaratri*
• Mar/Apr: Rama Navami*
• Apr: Mahavir Jayanti*
• Mar/Apr: Good Friday*
• May: Buddha’s Birthday*
• May: Eid ul-Fitr (end of Ramadan)*
• Jul/Aug: Eid ul-Adha*
• 15 Aug: Independence Day
• Aug/Sep: Janmashtami*
• Aug/Sep: Islamic New Year*
• Sep/Oct: Dussehra*
• Oct: Birth of the Prophet Mohammed*
• 2 Oct: Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday
• Oct/Nov: Diwali*
• Nov: Guru Nanak Jayanti*
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day

* Please note, India public holidays may vary.

Is India safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

The majority of Indian society is still conservative, and while most travelers will have a welcoming and hospitable experience, discretion is still advised for LGBTQIA+ travelers, particularly in more remote towns and villages which may be more conservative. The same advice is also given to heterosexual couples (and couples of all other sexual orientations) as public displays of affection other than hugging and holding hands are generally frowned upon.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

Is India accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to wear in India

What you decide to pack and wear in India will depend on where you are and what time of year it is. The weather across India usually follows the monsoon cycle, so it’s quite easy to plan what to pack when it comes to rain, but temperatures will vary quite a bit from the north to the south.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

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From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

How will I be traveling around India?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in India, you may find yourself traveling by Jeep.

Safari through jungles and national parks aboard a jeep, which is ideal for conquering the difficult terrain and offers supreme wildlife viewing opportunities.

Cruising the waterways of India is a revealing, inspiring experience. Whether it’s the iconic Ganges or peaceful Kerala backwaters, seeing India from the water is a must.

Traveling by train is one of the great experiences of India. It's a system which looks like chaos, but it works - and well.

Use the efficient metro to get around the sights and suburbs of Delhi.

Zip around the big cities of India by auto rickshaw.

What kind of accommodation will I be staying in?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in India you may find yourself staying in a homestay.

Make new friends, feast on authentic home cooking and receive kind hospitality while staying with friendly families in India.

With walks, wildlife spotting and adventure sports nearby, staying in a jungle resort is the perfect way to see another side of India.

From ex-royal palaces to historic hill stations and converted forts, India is full of heritage properties that have been turned into comfortable accommodation with an old-world touch.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip to India support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to India directly support our foundation partner, Positive Change for Marine Life. 

Positive Change for Marine Life

Positive Change for Marine Life nurtures ocean health with community-led conservation initiatives. Donations help them expand and implement vital programs in India that empower local communities, support sustainable fishing practices, restore marine habitats and drive policy change. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

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14 of India’s guides who will make you feel like a local in their city

By Jahnavi Bhatt and Ria Gupta

A place always looks different from an insider’s perspective. And across India, a few enthusiastic locals are taking it upon themselves to create experiences that let travellers experience their cities, states and towns like a local . Here are some of our favourite tour guides who will show you around their home turf beyond the classic landmarks, help you delve deeper into the culture of a destination and bring the city alive through its history, lore and lifestyle.

13 local guides in some of India’s top destinations

Gurinder singh johal - amritsar.

Gurinder Singh Johal

Gurinder Singh Johal has been roaming the bylanes of Amritsar since 1989. Born and brought up in the city, he nurtured a passion for the city’s history from an early age, learning its secrets while walking the streets, speaking with locals, visiting historical landmarks and reading books of history. In 2009, he took to conducting heritage walks, covering food, culture, craft and town planning of Amritsar’s walled city. Top tip : “Explore the city on foot, for any other way, you’ll remain far removed from the stories that brew in the tiny bylanes of the original, pre-colonial Amritsar .”

Hadlee Renjith - Munnar

Hadlee Renjith

Renjith knows the hills of Munnar like the back of his hand. Since he was discovered by a local touring company over 12 years ago, he’s spent days and nights exploring everything from the best ridges to spot a glorious sunrise to the grasslands where Munnar’s tiniest snakes and croakers hide. Over time, the naturalist has become known for bringing herping to the forefront of Munnar’s tourism through his company, Resplendent Experiences. In 2021, he made headlines for conserving the critically endangered Anaimalai flying frog in Munnar with the help of the Wildlife Trust of India. Top tip : “You can’t schedule a meeting with the wild. Explore without the expectation of results, and keep an eye out for all nature and wildlife, big and small.”

Stanzin Gurmet - Ladakh

Stanzin Gurmet

Stanzin was born and brought up in Ladakh when it was still an untouched cluster of villages. When he returned after his higher education, he got into wildlife tourism under the guidance of Rinchen Wangchuk (the late co-founder of Snow Leopard Conservancy India Trust), and in 2009, began leading wildlife and birding tours into the interiors of the territory. He continues to take travellers to villages that are still similar to the Ladakh he grew up in, and ties up with the locals to generate sustainable employment through tourism. Come winter, Gurmet takes small groups on snow leopard expeditions, with winter treks, cultural experiences and local interactions thrown into the mix. Top tip : “Ladakh can be magical in the peak winter months, but with the right gear and the right team. So choose wisely, as it can make or break your whole experience.”

Kunal Sanklecha - Mumbai

Kunal Sanklecha

Poorvi Singhal

Jahnavi Bhatt

Arundhati Ail

A Mumbai-based mountaineer and trekking guide, Kunal Sanklecha seeks to inspire travellers to experience a place through its people, by interacting with locals on a journey and choosing homestays wherever possible. One of his favourite places is Garbett Plateau, a steep trek that opens to a stunning view of Matheran; though he has done it hundreds of times in the past few years, each journey brings fresh perspective. Sanklecha enjoys exploring the bridge between self-development and travel and encourages on his nature treks to look inward as well. Top tip: “Use travel as a medium for self-growth.”

Prem Sagar - Himachal Pradesh

A love for literature and mythology is what drove Prem Sagar to become a tour guide. With a master's degree in English literature, he ran a bookstore in McLeodganj, Dharamshala where he chatted about local history and culture with the foreign travellers who dropped in. The casual conversations led him to start his own trekking agency, Eagle’s Height Hikers and Trekkers . Sagar now takes people on historical tours and heritage walks around Himachal Pradesh, as well as trekking expeditions and safaris beyond. Top tip: “Each place is multi-faceted. The history, the culture, the unique stories, there is a lot to a sight.”

Anwar Wain - Gulmarg

In the pre-Covid days, Anwar Wain would relish in taking tourists around Gulmarg every single day, sometimes for 12 hours at a stretch. The sole breadwinner of his family, he kept his chin up when business was slow in 2020 and patiently waited for the tide to change. He encourages tourists to pave their own path and explore lesser-visited destinations like Doodhapatri, Alpather Lake and Drang for their majestic landscapes. Top tip: “Explore more than the gondola rides—it's just a slice of what Gulmarg has to offer”

Maria Victor - Goa

Maria Victor

A management accountant, Maria Victor set up Make It Happen to show Goa beyond the “sun, sand and beer narrative”. She showcases insider experiences in Goa: connecting with local hosts, immersing yourself in vivid storytelling, trying delicacies and learning about the history, culture and architecture. Her guided tours take you from Panjim’s famous Latin quarter to Goa’s fishing hamlets. Top tip: “When you travel to a place, slow down and experience the local way of life.”

Abhishek Jamalabad - Mumbai

Every tourist makes sure to visit Marine Drive but very few actually take a close look at the coast. Marine biologist and researcher Abhishek Jamalabad co-founded the volunteer-driven project, Marine Life of Mumbai, propelled by the Coastal Conservation Foundation. They host free and paid shore-walks and take great pleasure and care in introducing Mumbai’s marine residents to the city’s humans. Top tip: “The community needs to come together to conserve marine life.”

Takpa Tanzin - Spiti

Tapka Tenzin

Evolving from a donkey-handler to a tour guide, Takpa Tanzin has learned on the job and taken mountaineering courses. He applies his knowledge of farming and cattle to acquaint tourists with the simple and calm life of Spiti. In the winter, he takes visitors on snow leopard expeditions. Top tip: “Embrace the culture of our town by living in homestays and eating the local cuisine.”

Deborah Dias - Goa

Deborah Dias

A great resource for spotting Goa’s hidden sights, Deborah Dias enjoys meeting new people and taking them to culturally rich and scenic spots. Her favourite site is Old Goa’s Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount, its pure white facade veiled by the trees. She also adores exploring villages, admiring the houses, watching coconut pluckers climb the tallest trees and visiting prawn farms. Top tip: “Dine and enjoy the vibe at one of Goa’s historic old mansions.”

Bharat Gothoskar - Mumbai

Bharat Gothoskar

Bharat Gothoskar quit his corporate job nearly two decades ago to start Khaki Tours , and he has never looked back. He takes travellers in a jeep around the city for an “urban safari”, one of Khaki Tour’s most popular offerings. The guests explore the city of dreams like a local, visiting museums and art galleries, trying out street food, learning about the city’s lesser-known stories. Khaki Tours also organises food trails, photo walks and sailing tours. Top tip: “More than the sights, it's the stories that make Mumbai special.”

Jayanti Rajagopalan - Hyderabad

Jayanti aka Jonty Rajagopalan

Showing travellers the road less travelled for over a decade, Jayanti Rajagopalan and her company, Detours India , offer a deeper understanding of Hyderabad’s history and food. Expect inside stories of Golconda Fort, visits to ancient temples and Sufi shrines, and similar offbeat tours in other Indian cities of India too. Top tip: “Learn to look below the surface of India. That’s where you will discover its beauty and uniqueness.”

Alisha Sadikot - Mumbai

Alisha Sadikot

Heritage expert Alisha Sadikot aims to help tourists relive Mumbai’s layered history during her guided walks. The founder of The InHeritage Project and Art Walks Mumbai, Sadikot switched to virtual tours during the lockdown to keep the conversation going between the city, its locals and visitors. Top tip: “Leave your car, and the main roads, and walk.”

Pallab Prakash Saikia - Kaziranga

Having grown up with elephants lounging in his backyard and rhinos in the fields of Kaziranga, Saikia has found his calling in connecting the next generation with wildlife and its conservation. Through wildlife tours through Kaziranga and other national parks of Assam, he is working to educate both tourists and locals about their biodiversity and tribal life. Top tip: “People around here are friendly, but knowing a bit of the local language can go a long way in enhancing your experience of the place."

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"I'll show you how to navigate the buzzing cities of India, and go beyond to find soul-stirring temples, beautiful mountains and irresistible food."

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Navigate the busy streets of Old Delhi on a rickshaw ride

The nation's capital rings to the sounds of car horns, chai stalls and the chatter of its 29 million inhabitants. Shuffle into an open-air rickshaw and ride through the streets of the Old Delhi, admiring traditional Havelis and stopping for a famous mango or pomegranate frozen kulfi to cool off in the summer.

Gaze at the sun-kissed Taj Mahal in Agra

Take a journey to Agra and be stirred by the ultimate symbol of fairy-tale architecture. Inlaid with precious gemstones, this ivory marble palace was originally commissioned by an emperor as a tomb for his wife, standing as a symbol of love and opulence since 1653.

Spot tigers in Ranthambore National Park

Clamber into the back of an open-top safari car and spot leopards, marsh crocodiles, hyenas and Bengal tigers wandering their natural habitat. Sprawling over almost 300km 2 , the Ranthambore National Park is also home to a 10th-century fort, giant banyan trees and many lakes.

Experience royal Rajasthan

Enthralling cities interrupt the inhospitable desert in Rajasthan, India's largest state. Home to around 30 royal palaces including the floating lake palace of Udaipur and the iconic peach palace of Hawa Mahal, you will be swept up by the regal heritage found in this part of India.

Visit one of the Bollywood studios in Mumbai

Take a journey into the metropolis of Mumbai to uncover the prestigious culture of the Indian film industry. Without knowing a word of Hindi or a single Bollywood film, you will be captivated by this passionate industry. Be guided past the homes of megastars and catch a glimpse behind the scenes as the cameras roll.

Our top 5 things to do in India

Let Trafalgar guide your India vacation through a majestic tapestry of landmarks and experience. From the Taj Mahal to the tiger parks of Rajasthan, these are just some of the soul-stirring moments waiting when you travel with us.

National Museum

India vacation tours get under the skin of the country's culture with a trip to the National Museum of New Delhi. Roam the halls and take in elaborate jewellery, ancient manuscripts and traditional miniature paintings on cloth. From the prehistoric to the modern, this expansive Indian museum is a must-visit.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya

The King Shivaji museum, or CSMVS, is a pride of Mumbai showcasing around 50,000 exhibitions within an impressive Indo-gothic building. After taking in archaeology, art and natural history, spend time in the tranquil, flower-filled gardens that contrast the bustle of Mumbai.

City Palace

Taking almost 400 years to be built, the City Palace of Udaipur is an architectural masterpiece beside Lake Pichola. Enter the museum section of the palace complex via the royal courtyard, allowing plenty of time to immerse in the artefacts of India's distant past.

Best museums in India

Step off the streets and find a moment of quiet in a spellbinding museum. Here are just a few of the places we will visit in India to peel back the many layers of culture.

A thin fried bread mentioned in 12th-century Sanskrit scriptures, paratha is part of India's cultural heritage. Try it stuffed with spinach, fenugreek and the cheese of paneer, or take it on its own for lapping up the leftover gravy from a delectable curry.

Varan Bhaat Diva

Popular along the sunny coastline of Goa, Varan Bhaat Diva is Indian comfort food of peas, beans, rice and many spices. Often given to those who are exhausted or sick, you will feel soothed by the warmth and turmeric in this family favorite.

Chicken cafreal

Inspired by the dishes brought from Portugal during colonial times, the herb coated chicken legs of cafreal will cement your infatuation with Indian cuisine. Shallow fried and often served with potato and wedges of citrus fruit, India tour packages aren't complete until cafreal is served.

Best food in India

Despite the many famous dishes that have journeyed far from the lands of India, this country still has culinary delights that will rouse your tastebuds. From warm bread to fragrant curries, we'll guide you through the secrets of this spicy land.

What to pack for India

A few good books

The Indian rail network chuffs for 65,000 kilometres around India. A geographically large company with relatively slow transport systems, a few books can keep you entertained between admiring scenery.

Light and modest clothing

Though India does get cooler than most expect, many parts of the year are intensely hot. Pack sheer, light clothing that covers you right to the ankles, wrists and neck so that you can respectfully visit religious sites without sweltering.

Medication for stomach upsets

Though our India group tours will see you largely protected from unsanitary food or water, it is still handy to keep a supply of medication on hand. Charcoal tablets can be taken daily as a preventive measure to ensure any nasties are quickly expelled from your system.

Water purification devices

The purification of water has come a long way in recent years. Make your way to a specialist travel shop to discuss bottles, gadgets and tablets that will ensure you stay hydrated without falling ill.

Wet wipes and hand sanitiser

True to its reputation, India can be a hot and messy place. Pack wet wipes and hand sanitiser to ensure you feel fresh when you're on the go.

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• India Tours
• Guided and Escorted Tours

India Guided Tours 2024/2025

Our India-guided tours offer an immersive adventure through a world of incredible wonders, where every step is guided by a skilled expert who reveals the hidden gems and renowned landmarks of this enthralling place. Experience the thrill of exploring renowned historical sites, vibrant cities, and breathtaking natural landscapes as your guide reveals fascinating narratives and untold stories. From partaking in local rituals and traditions to experiencing the real flavors of regional food, every aspect of your guided tour in India will be enhanced by the presence of a guide to offer you cultural context, answer your questions, and ensure that you make the most of every moment. Prepare to be immersed in India's intriguing culture, discover its beautiful landscapes, and meet warm-hearted people by joining one of our guided tours of India . Build a personalized itinerary according to your preferences with a customized trip to India . Or check out our guided tours of India below.

• Best Time To Visit India
• Things to do in India

339 guided tours in India

• Starts New Delhi, India
• Ends New Delhi, India

Classic Rajasthan

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Art and architecture & Shopping and Markets Art and architecture , Shopping and Markets , Wildlife safaris and game drives & Walking tours 'data-more-tripid='3347'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Tent
• Transport Train, Bus, Private Vehicle, Rickshaw, 4WD Jeep, Boat & Taxi
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,665
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 167
• Total Price from: US$ 1,498
• May 17 Only 2 seats left
• Jun 02 Only 8 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Golden Triangle With Udaipur City Of Lakes, Supersaver

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Art and architecture
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Transport Boat & Flight
• Age Range 6-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 858
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 129
• Total Price from: US$ 729
• Jun 08 10+ seats left
• Jun 15 10+ seats left

Taj Mahal & Wildlife with Royal Stay at Castles Tour

• Free cancellation
• Trip customizable
• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Boat, Jeep & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 1-79 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 850
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 85
• Total Price from: US$ 765

Golden Triangle Tour of India

• Activities Sightseeing Tours
• Accommodation Hotel & Home-stay
• Transport Private Vehicle
• Age Range 5-79 yrs
• Operated in English, French, Spanish
• Brochure Price: US$ 255
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 26
• Total Price from: US$ 229

Golden Triangle India Tour with Wildlife

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Wildlife safaris and game drives 'data-more-tripid='16823'>+1 more
• Transport Jeep & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 1-90 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 380
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 38
• Total Price from: US$ 342

North India Revealed

• Activities 4x4, quad and ATV trips & Cultural, religious and historic sites 4x4, quad and ATV trips , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Shopping and Markets , Rickshaw, cycle or local transport tours & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='3344'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Camping, Sleeper Train & Guest House
• Transport Train, Bus, Private Vehicle, Rickshaw, Jeep, Boat, Sleeper Train & Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,125
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 113
• Total Price from: US$ 1,012
• Jun 14 Only 8 seats left
• Jul 19 10+ seats left

India's Golden Triangle

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & Shopping and Markets 'data-more-tripid='3352'>+1 more
• Transport Bus, Private Vehicle & Rickshaw
• Brochure Price: US$ 990
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 148
• Total Price from: US$ 842
• May 13 Only 4 seats left
• May 23 Only 2 seats left

• Starts Chennai, India
• Ends Chennai, India

Southern India Coast to Coast Ride

• Activities Bicycle tours
• Accommodation Hotel, Hut, Bungalow, Home-stay & Resort
• Transport Boat
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Oct 13 Only 8 seats left
• Oct 20 Only 8 seats left

Taj Mahal & Rajasthan with Royal Stay at Fort Sardargarh

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & City sightseeing Cultural, religious and historic sites , City sightseeing , Culture shows and excursions & Wildlife safaris and game drives 'data-more-tripid='23162'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Resort & Lodge
• Transport Jeep, Boat, Train & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 5-80 yrs
• Operated in English, Spanish
• Brochure Price: US$ 998
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 100
• Total Price from: US$ 898

Indian Golden Triangle Tour

• Age Range 9-79 yrs

• Ends Udaipur, India

Royal Rajasthan Tour

• Activities Local culture & Cultural, religious and historic sites Local culture , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Local boat rides & Walking tours 'data-more-tripid='1390'>+2 more
• Transport Jeep, Boat & Private Vehicle
• Operated in English, French, German, Spanish

• Starts Darjeeling, India
• Ends Darjeeling, India

Darjeeling Singalila Ridge Trek

• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Climbing
• Accommodation Hotel, Hut, Camping, Home-stay, Guest House & Sleeping Hut
• Transport Jeep & Train
• Age Range 10-60 yrs
• Operated in English, Hindi, Nepalese

Highlights of Northern India

• Activities Local culture & Cultural, religious and historic sites Local culture , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Festivals and events 'data-more-tripid='7488'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Sleeper Train & Resort
• Transport Boat, 4WD Jeep, Sleeper Train & Train
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,648
• Special Deal (8%): - US$ 133
• Total Price from: US$ 1,515
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Luxury Golden Triangle Tour

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture
• Transport Boat & Private Vehicle
• Operated in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish

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India’s simply too vast and too complex to explore in a single trip. It makes more sense to focus on one, two or perhaps three regions, depending on your time frame. The following India itineraries showcase both the classic attractions and less well-known gems of six distinct areas, from the icy heights of the Himalayas to the sweltering tropical backwaters of Kerala.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for India, created by local experts

13 days  / from 1800 USD

A Trek Through Ladakh's Markha Valley

Trek through the Markha Valley, taking in the jaw-dropping Himalayan landscape, camp in traditional mountain villages, and discover hilltop monasteries. This unique journey combines the culture of the Buddhist faith with the natural beauty of the mountains and the hustle and bustle of Delhi.

15 days  / from 2745 USD

Rajasthan: The Land of Kings

Experience the Land of Kings in luxury.This trip around Rajasthan takes you to Jaipur's palaces, sacred pilgrimage sites and deep into the desert hills. Breathe in the excitement of Delhi and visit the Taj Mahal. Then come nightfall, lay your head to rest in former royal palaces and magical forts.

6 days  / from 785 USD

The Holy City of Varanasi

The flat, sunburnt plains of the Ganges River are India's breadbasket: a densely populated area, it is home to many of the country's greatest sights. See Delhi and all its treasures, then fly to Varanasi, the most sacred stretch of the Ganges and one of India's most intense and atmospheric places.

Recommended India itineraries

India, a land of diverse cultures, landscapes, and histories, offers an array of experiences, from the majestic Himalayas in the north to the serene backwaters of Kerala in the south. 

Our local travel expert, Ravi, says, ' India is not just a destination; it's a vibrant tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered. With our tailor-made trips, you get more than just a holiday; you embark on a journey curated just for you. '

If you are planning your travel to India, use these itineraries created by our travel experts as a starting point for inspiration.

Looking for an India itinerary by duration? 10 days - 14 days

India Itinerary 1 - The Golden Triangle - 1 week

No other region of India packs in as many awe-inspiring monuments as the so-called “Golden Triangle” connecting Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Allow at least a week to complete the circuit, with a diversion south to the tiger reserve at Ranthambore if you’ve time to spare.

• Delhi - Start out at Shah Jahan’s mighty Red Fort in the Mughal Old City, then work your way south through the medieval monuments of the southern suburbs.
• Agra - Cross the Yamuna River by boat in the early morning for an unforgettable view of the Taj just after sunrise, then spend the rest of the day ticking off the city’s other Mughal splendours.
• Fatehpur Sikri - Overnight at a guesthouse below the deserted capital of emperor Akbar to see its deep red sandstone architecture at its most ethereal, in the diffuse light of dusk and dawn.
• Keoladeo National Park - Bicycle safaris along the dirt tracks and banks that crisscross this teeming bird reserve offer a perfect antidote to the noise and traffic of India’s northern cities.
• Jaipur - Approach the ochre-walled palace of Amber Fort on elephant back, before spending a day in the textile and gemstone bazaars of the Rajasthani capital – a riot of quintessentially Indian colour.
• Shekhawati - Set on the fringes of the Thar Desert, the painted havelis (walled mansions) in the market towns of this once rich area make the ideal stopover on the journey back to Delhi.

India Itinerary 2 - Around the "Land of Kings" - 1 month

You’ll need at least a month to really do justice to India’s dazzling desert state, Rajasthan, or three weeks at a pinch.

• Jaipur - The Pink City, with its hectic streets and flamboyant Rajput architecture, is a real baptism of fire.
• Ranthambore - If sighting a tiger is a priority, aim to spend at least a couple of nights at a camp near this world-famous reserve.
• Pushkar - Ringed by the white domes and sacred ghats of Hindu shrines, Pushkar makes a perfect base for leisurely desert walks and souvenir hunts.
• Udaipur - Dine by candlelight on a haveli rooftop for the ultimate view of the Sisodia maharanas’ fairytale palaces.
• Jodhpur - Rajasthan’s most spectacular medieval fortress, Mehrangarh, towers above the warren-like old city painted a hundred shades of sky blue.
• Jaisalmer - A long trip across the Thar is rewarded by the sublime vision of Jai Sigh’s yellow-stone citadel floating above the sand flats.
• Bikaner - Quirky architecture and a temple where thousands of rats run free are two vestiges of this city’s former prominence on the trans-Thar caravan route.
• Nawalgarh - After a succession of big cities, this small town on the fringes of the desert makes an enjoyable base for trips to nearby forts and havelis.

Taj Mahal, India

India Itinerary 3 - The Deep South - 3 weeks

The Deep South offers dramatic landscapes and world-class monuments. You’ll need at least three weeks to cover this route comfortably, or two at a rushed pace with your own transport.

• Chennai - The old colonial hub of Fort St George is the standout sight of the Tamil capital, but there’s also a wealth of succulent southern cuisine on offer.
• Mamallapuram - Sculpted by the Pallava kings, Mamallapuram holds a tempting combination of ancient stonework and breezy tropical beaches.
• Puducherry - Soak up the lingering Gallic ambience of France’s former colony on the Coromandel Coast, ideally from the confines of a heritage hotel.
• Thanjavur - The mighty Brihadishwara Temple and collection of Chola bronzes in the town’s art gallery make Thanjavur the perfect springboard for the Kaveri Delta region.
• Tiruchirapalli (Trichy) - Gaze from the summit of Trichy’s exotic rock fort across the Kaveri River to the largest temple complex in India.
• Madurai - The shrine of the Fish-Eyed Goddess is Tamil Nadu’s greatest living monument, renowned for its multicoloured, deity-encrusted gateway towers.
• Periyar - Scale the Western Ghat range to enter Kerala’s Cardamom Hills, where the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary offers the chance to sight elephants.
• Alappuzha - This former colonial trading port provides the entry point for trips into the surrounding backwater region of Kuttanad – a watery world like no other in Asia.
• Fort Cochin - The heritage hotels, arty cafés and funky boutiques of Kerala’s historic harbour town are the ideal end point for a tour of India’s far south.

India Itinerary 4 - Himalayan odyssey - 2-3 weeks

Experience the contrasting landscapes of the world’s greatest mountain range with this two- to three-week journey from the northern plains to the fringes of the Tibetan Plateau and idyllic Vale of Kashmir.

• Shimla - Trundle on the toy train from Kalka through the foothills to this quintessentially Raj-era hill station.
• Manali - Lush forests of deodar cedars, apple orchards and giant, ice-dusted summits flank the hill resort of Manali, in the Kullu Valley – starting point of the trans-Himalayan highway.
• Leh - A breathless, two-day journey across a vast desert of scree and dizzying passes brings you to the capital of Ladakh, marooned in the high Indus Valley.
• The Ladakhi lakes - Charter a jeep for the trip southeast to the hypnotically beautiful altitude lakes of Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri.
• Kargil - Fairytale Buddhist monasteries and stupendous mountain scenery characterize the long haul to the mid-point on the journey to Kashmir.
• Srinagar - Laze on the deck of a houseboat sipping spiced tea while the shadows lengthen on the surrounding mountainsides and shikara canoes filled with fruit and flowers paddle past.

India Itinerary 5 - Rhododendrons and red pandas - 10 days

Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is the launch pad for this classic trip through the tea estates around Darjeeling to Sikkim, a beautiful, predominantly Buddhist region in the lap of the Himalayas. You could cover the route in a fortnight; with an additional week, consider a multistage trek into the high country further north.

• Kolkata - Join the flood of commuters crossing the Howrah Bridge, admire the spectacular monuments of the British Empire and discover one of India’s tastiest regional cuisines.
• Darjeeling - Amazing views of distant Kanchenjunga, a quaint Raj-era vibe and the famous Toy Train ride up from the plains account for the perennial appeal of India’s principal tea hub.
• Rumtek - A quiet alternative to nearby Gangtok (the Sikkimese capital), Rumtek is also the site of a spectacular Buddhist monastery.
• Maenam Sanctuary - Tackle the lung-stretching, 1000m ascent of Maenam mountain from Ravangla town for a tantalizing panoramic view of the snow peaks to the north.
• Pemayangtse - The poster boy for northeast Himalayan monasteries, Pemayangtse offers the added bonus of spectacular vistas of Kanchenjunga.
• Varshey Rhododendron Sanctuary - Travellers with a botanical bent shouldn’t miss the chance to trek through this tract of pristine rhododendron forest, home to red pandas and black bears.

India Itinerary 6 - The Deccan Trail - 3 weeks

Despite its extraordinary wealth of historic monuments, the Deccan region of central India sees comparatively few visitors. The rewards for those who do make it are considerable: a succession of astonishing temple sites, crumbling tombs, mosques and deserted capitals spanning sixteen centuries of civilization. Allow at least three weeks for this unforgettable trip.

• Hyderabad - The convoluted ruins of medieval Golconda, on the outskirts of the city, followed by a climb of the Charminar (“Four Minarets”) mosque and a slap-up Hyderabadi feast are the perfect preamble for what lies ahead.
• Bidar - Resembling a town on the Central Asian Silk Route, Bidar’s rambling fort-palace, madrasa, tombs and metal workshops recall this region’s medieval Persian roots.
• Vijayapura (Bijapur) - For three centuries, Bijapur served as the capital of the Deccan. An unparalleled crop of monuments survive from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, including India’s largest domed tomb, the mighty Gol Gumbaz.
• Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal - The Deccan’s ancient Hindu heyday is represented by this trio of wonderful sites – a feast of enigmatic rock-cut caves, monkey-infested temples and tumbledown forts – in the middle of nowhere.
• Hampi - Rent a bicycle to explore the expansive, beautifully carved remains of medieval India’s most splendid city, set amid a dreamy landscape of banana groves and boulder hills.
• Gokarna - This compact pilgrimage town on the Konkan coast holds plenty of traditional atmosphere, and a crop of gorgeous beaches around the headland to the south.
• Goa - For a self-indulgent spell soaking up the rays and surf of the Konkan, Goa’s hard to beat. Aim for one of the less-developed resorts such as Agonda or Patnem in the south of the state.
• Travelling across central India from Mumbai on the Arabian Sea to Puri on the Bay of Bengal gives you the chance to see some of the country’s most compelling attractions, relax by the beach, and then fly out from Kolkata. Realistically, you’ll need a month for this route, though it could be done in three weeks at a canter.
• Mumbai - Dynamic and exhilarating, this vast megalopolis bombards the senses with the extremes of urban India, and is an excellent place to sample some of the country’s finest dining.
• Aurangabad - A superb base from which to visit the breathtaking cave sculptures and carvings at Ellora and Ajanta. Check out, too, the city’s own “false Taj”, the Bibi-ka-Maqbara.
• Khajuraho - Hidden away in India’s very centre, this medieval temple complex is decorated with the most eye-popping array of erotica you’ll find on any religious building anywhere.
• Lucknow - Visit the now-ruined Residency in the capital of Uttar Pradesh, where a besieged British contingent famously held out for five months during the 1857 uprising. Don’t leave without sampling the city’s succulent dum pukht cuisine.
• Varanasi - The spiritual capital of India, and one of the oldest cities on earth, where you can see bathing and cremations by the sacred River Ganges, and watch the kids fly their kites from your terrace while monkeys scurry around the rooftops.
• Bodhgaya - The Buddha achieved enlightenment while sitting under a bodhi tree at Bodhgaya, one of a trio of sacred Buddhist sites within easy striking distance of Varanasi.
• Puri - Home of the famous annual Jagannath “Car Festival” (Rath Yatra), Puri is also a low-key beach resort, popular with Indian families and Western backpackers, and an excellent place to recharge your batteries.

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written by Andy Turner

updated 15.12.2023

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THE 10 BEST India Private Tours

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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Same Day Taj Mahal Tour from Delhi

2. Highlights of Mumbai Private Sightseeing Tour:Winner of TRAVELLERS CHOICE AWARD

3. Private Sunrise Taj Mahal Trip from Delhi all Inclusive

4. Four-Day Private Luxury Golden Triangle Tour to Agra and Jaipur From New Delhi

5. All Inclusive Day Trip to Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Baby Taj from Delhi by Car

6. Private Guided Tour to Skip the Line Taj Mahal Agra Fort E Ticket

7. All Inclusive Private Half-Day Delhi City Tour by Car

8. Private Mumbai Sightseeing Tour (Traveller's Choice Award Winner)

9. Full-Day Jaipur Private Sightseeing Tour by Car with Guide

10. (Mysuru) Mysore Day Out - A Royal Experience Private Tour from Bangalore

11. Elephanta Caves & Island Guided Private Tour

12. 3-Days Private Luxury Golden Triangle Tour to Agra and Jaipur From New Delhi

13. Full Day Visit to City of Dreams Mumbai in Private Vehicle

14. Taj Mahal Day Tour from Delhi by Train

15. Private Taj Mahal Tour from Delhi by Car

16. 4 Day Golden Triangle with Ranthambore Tiger Safari Tour from Delhi

17. Explore Munnar Day Trip From Cochin ( By Munnar Info)

18. Customized Half Day or Full Day Delhi Shopping Tour with Female Consultant

19. Night View of Delhi Tour - 4 Hrs

20. Private Half-Day Guided Shopping Tour with Transfer in Delhi

21. kochi to munnar A Private guided fullday tour with hotel pickup

22. Private Luxury Delhi - Agra - Jaipur Golden Triangle Tour - 3 Nights 4 Days

23. Private Tour of Jaipur's Most Instagrammable & Photogenic Spots

24. Full Day Sightseeing Tour of Hyderabad

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26. Total Chennai city tour in Private car with guide & lunch by Wonder tours

27. Private Elephanta Tour with Mumbai Sightseeing Including AC vehicle

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29. Delhi to Agra Taj Mahal Private Day Trip by Superfast Train

30. Ranthambore Day Trip from Jaipur with Jeep / Canter Safari

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Out of Your Comfort Zone

The art of backpacking & adventures to get out of your comfort zone – tips and advice, 13 best guided group tours to explore india (prices & itineraries).

Last Updated on February 23, 2024 by Talita

13 great and different guided tours around India. Tours with a variety of prices, days, destinations, themes, age, luxury level, and adventure.

India is one of the most fascinating tourist destinations in the world, offering a wealth of cultural, historical and natural experiences that delight visitors. With an ancient history and incredible diversity, the country has something to offer for all tastes and interests.

One of India’s most famous landmarks is the Taj Mahal, an architectural marvel that attracts millions of visitors every year. Located in the city of Agra, this white marble mausoleum is a symbol of eternal love and one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

India is also blessed with lush nature and stunning landscapes. In the north of the country, the region of Kashmir is famous for its picturesque lakes, mountains and valleys. Kerala’s backwaters in the south offer a peaceful and relaxing experience, while Ranthambore and Bandhavgarh National Parks are popular destinations for wildlife lovers, where you can spot tigers and other species in their natural habitat.

Indian cuisine is equally diverse and delicious, with varied dishes that vary by region. From the famous curry to the biryani, from delicious vegetarian dishes to savory sweets, Indian cuisine is a sensory experience that appeals to all palates.

However, when visiting India, it is important to keep cultural diversity in mind and the need to respect local traditions. Proper etiquette, appropriate dress and cultural sensitivity are essential when exploring this fascinating country.

From iconic monuments to stunning landscapes, vibrant festivals to delectable cuisine, India offers a unique experience that captivates and delights all who visit.

Table of Contents

• 1 Top 10 Tourist Attractions in India
• 2 Is it better to travel independently or on group tours in India?
• 3.1 Best India Tours and Itineraries for Guided Small Group Adventures
• 3.2 Best India Tours and Itineraries for Groups of Young Singles (18-35 Years Old)
• 3.3 Best India luxury and comfort tours and itineraries for small groups with guides
• 3.4 Tourradar’s Best India Tours (Best site to search and compare India tours of different lengths, styles, prices, and operators)
• 4 Concluding
• 6 Planning your next trip?

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in India

Before we delve into the central theme of this text, it’s important to highlight some of the most popular tourist destinations in India, in order to provide a foundation for searching for tours, itineraries, and trips that cater to your preferences.

India is an incredible country, full of cultural, historical, and natural treasures. Below, we present a list of 10 top tourist attractions and cities that are worth visiting in India:

• Taj Mahal, Agra: This iconic white marble mausoleum is a symbol of eternal love and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Its architectural beauty and poignant history make it an unmissable destination.
• Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: One of the oldest cities in the world, Varanasi is an important religious center for Hindus. Along the banks of the Ganges River, visitors can witness sacred rituals and Aarti ceremonies.
• Khajuraho Temples, Madhya Pradesh: These medieval temples are known for their intricate and detailed erotic sculptures. They represent the fusion of spirituality and art.
• Jaipur, Rajasthan: Known as the “Pink City,” Jaipur is famous for its palaces, forts, and vibrant bazaars. The City Palace, Amber Fort, and Hawa Mahal are some of the must-see attractions.
• Jaisalmer, Rajasthan: Also known as the “Golden City,” Jaisalmer is famous for its sandstone fortress and intricate ornamented havelis (mansions).
• Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), Amritsar: The Golden Temple is the most sacred temple of Sikhism. With its golden structure and the sacred lake surrounding it, it is a site of great spiritual significance.
• Palace of the Winds (Hawa Mahal), Jaipur: This uniquely facaded palace is a distinctive landmark of Jaipur. Its lattice windows allow the wind to flow, providing a cool respite in the desert heat.
• Red Fort, Delhi: One of Delhi’s most famous landmarks, the Red Fort is an imposing red sandstone structure that houses fascinating palaces and museums.
• Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan: A popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, the park is known for its tiger population in their natural habitat. Safaris here offer the opportunity to spot fascinating wildlife.
• Kerala Backwaters: The tranquil and serene backwaters of Kerala offer a unique experience of cruising in houseboats known as “kettuvallams.” These trips are an opportunity to relax and appreciate the beautiful landscapes and local life.

Is it better to travel independently or on group tours in India?

Regardless of which option you choose to travel to India, whether independently or in a group tour, each has its positives and negatives.

Opting for independent travel in India gives you greater flexibility to plan your own itinerary and choose activities according to your preferences. You will be free to decide when and how to carry out activities, allowing you to explore India at your own pace. Also, this option can be more economical as you can control spending according to your choices.

However, independent travel requires detailed planning, with research into accommodation, transport and activities. You need to be prepared to deal with any challenges, such as cultural and linguistic diversity, and take extra precautions regarding security, especially in lesser-known areas.

On the other hand, a group tour with a guide offers the company of other travelers and the opportunity to meet people with similar interests. Also, traveling in a group can provide a sense of security, especially if you are accompanied by an experienced guide who knows India well.

However, this option may somewhat limit your freedom to explore India independently as you will be following a pre-determined itinerary and schedules set by the group.

In summary, the choice between traveling independently or in a group in India depends on your personal preferences. Assess your interests, time availability, budget, and comfort level when making your decision. Both options have their benefits, and the important thing is to find the one that best suits your India travel needs and desires.

13 Best Tours and Itineraries to Explore India

Best india tours and itineraries for guided small group adventures.

   1. G Adventures – Essential India (15 Days)

From the intricate saris of Rajasthan to the beautiful symmetry of the Taj Mahal, this compact journey is a photographer’s delight and the perfect introduction to India. You’ll float through the Ganges River ghats to find the spiritual heart of Hinduism in Varanasi and venture off the beaten path, exploring carved stepped wells and picturesque temples in rural villages.

With the perfect mix of included activities and free time to explore the nation’s rich heritage, you’re sure to be swept up in India’s amazing tapestry of life.

   2. G Adventures – Golden Triangle (8 Days)

This short but spicy journey through India will introduce you to three very different northern cities and the colorful rural life of Rajasthan. From the hectic pace of Delhi with its bustling markets, magnificent monuments and colonial past, travel by private transport to Agra and the mesmerizing beauty of the Taj Mahal, one of the wonders of the world.

Find out why Jaipur is called the Pink City and get a taste of rural life in a Dhula village. Photography and culture lovers will not be disappointed in this classic adventure.

   3. Encounters Travel – Taj to Varanasi (12 Days)

This 12-day North India tour concludes with two days exploring the Holy City of Varanasi on the banks of the Ganges River after exploring Jaipur in rural Rajasthan and Agra, home to the Taj Mahal.

This tour of India begins in the capital city, Delhi, with tours of the ancient and modern sides of this bustling city, now home to over 18 million people. Then head south into the arid state of Rajasthan, home to imposing forts and palaces, colorful saris and dazzling jewelry, and fascinating Indian history.

It includes a visit to the Amber Fort, the City Palace and the Jantar Mantar Observatory in the “Pink City” of Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, as well as exploring its famous craft and product fairs. Next stop is the small and remote village of Tordi, where we will stay in a converted palace and explore the village and its surroundings, truly experiencing rural Indian life.

   4. Encounters Travel – North India Highlights (16 Days)

This is an intense two-week tour of North India, offering an incredible introduction to the contrasting and striking landscapes of North India, from the Himalayan hills to the arid plains of Rajasthan.

   5. Intrepid – Premium India in Depth (14 Days) 

From magnificent forts to wild forests and vibrant cities, Rajasthan has a lot to offer for those in search of adventure.

This 14-day Premium journey through North India reveals the best culture, landscapes and cuisine of the region, with the guidance of an experienced local leader. The legendary cities of Agra, Udaipur and Jaipur impress with their grandeur, while Mumbai and Delhi offer a true portrait of modern life.

Look for tigers in Ranthambore National Park, dine under the stars among the sand dunes of Pushkar and learn about life in Rajasthan in the homes of local families.

Best India Tours and Itineraries for Groups of Young Singles (18-35 Years Old)

   6. Contiki – Eternal India (12 Days) 

Old and new, color and chaos, bustling cities and lush mountain ranges… India is a wonderful cacophony that leaves an imprint on your memory long after you return home.

Ready to awaken your senses, bring your imagination to life and change your perception of the world forever? This is the trip for you.

   7. Contiki – Delhi to Kathmandu Quest (10 Days)

This journey takes you from the colorful chaos of Delhi to the bustling capital of Nepal, but it’s what you see and do along the way that will stick most in your memory.

You’ll witness the Taj Mahal, meet elephants at a rescue centre, explore the mystical bazaars of Lucknow, watch the sunrise light up the holy sites of Varanasi, and spot Bengal tigers and one-horned rhinos in Chitwan National Park before you even reach Kathmandu.

Filled with adventure, spirituality, natural beauty and delicious food, this trip showcases the best of India and Nepal.

Best India luxury and comfort tours and itineraries for small groups with guides

   8. Trafalgar – Uncover India: Delhi & Kerala (20 Days) 

All the riches of India in one epic journey. From the captivating energy of Delhi and Mumbai to the tranquil backwaters and lingering spice aromas of Kerala.

Venture into the wilds of Ranthambore, traverse the Golden Triangle and admire India’s legendary palaces, forts and monuments along the way.

   9. Trafalgar – Colours of Rajasthan With Mumbai (15 Days)

Royalty, romance and the immersive energy of Mumbai are the highlights of this journey through India. From the Golden Triangle to Rajasthan and beyond, delving into legends and legacies.

   10. Insight Vacations – Classical India With Nepal (12 Days) 

Embark on the journey of a lifetime as you meet the women who climbed Mount Everest in Kathmandu, step back in time to the Mughal Empire in Old Delhi and bargain for the best deals at the fragrant spice markets of Jaipur.

Enjoy a prestigious dinner at Dera Amer, a protected nature reserve near Jaipur that connects you to nature like never before, with elephants roaming freely across this vast reserve.

Travel from Jaipur to Agra, home to the famous Taj Mahal. Tour this architectural marvel and explore the nearby village of Kachhpura, where a stop at a rooftop cafe offers tea, pakora and stunning views of the Taj Mahal in the distance. In the Holy City of Varanasi, rise before dawn for a spectacular boat cruise along the Ganges River.

Tourradar’s Best India Tours (Best site to search and compare India tours of different lengths, styles, prices, and operators)

   11. Tourradar – Classical South India (11 Days)

Start in Chennai (Madras) and end in Kochi (Cochin)! On this tour you have an 11-day travel package that takes you to Chennai (Madras), India, and 7 other destinations in the country. Includes hotel accommodation, an expert guide, meals, transport and more.

   12. Tourradar – Ajanta and Ellora Caves: Maharashtra (4 Days)

Start and end in Aurangabad! With this tour you will get a 4 days travel package that will take you to Aurangabad, India and Ajanta. The package includes hotel accommodation, an expert guide, meals, transport and more.

   13. Tourradar – Heritage Tour of India (7 Days) 

Start and end in New Delhi! With this tour you have a 7 days travel package that takes you around New Delhi and 4 other destinations in India. Tour includes hotel accommodation, an expert guide, meals, transport and more.

India is a fascinating destination for those seeking cultural, spiritual and exotic experiences. With its rich historical heritage, diverse landscapes and vibrant mix of tradition and modernity, the country offers a unique and unforgettable journey.

When planning your trip to India, it is important to carry out careful research on available destinations, activities and accommodation options. Checking reviews from other travelers and getting detailed information about tour companies can help ensure a smooth and safe experience.

Whichever company you choose to organize your trip, India is sure to leave a lasting mark in your memory. Prepare to be captivated by the cultural richness, exotic flavors, enveloping aromas and warm hospitality of the Indian people.

Embark on this adventure through India and let yourself be enchanted by its vibrant colors, its deep spirituality and its cultural diversity. A journey through this unique country will truly be a transformative and unforgettable experience.

Planning your next trip?

 Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, our article with The 6 Best and Cheapest Websites to Find & Reserve Accommodation can help you out. You’ll also find some promotions and discount codes .

 Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at our page with 16 Tips to Save on Flights where you’ll also find the 4 best websites to buy your plane tickets. 

And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then surely our page with The 5 Best and Cheapest Websites to Compare and Rent Cars Around the World will help you choose the best rental car and find a good deal.

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Next stop….The DMZ, South Korea

The 15 most spectacular places to visit in India

Dec 11, 2023 • 14 min read

Expect fairy-tale-like drama against a desert backdrop in magical Jaisalmer, Rajasthan © Andrii Lutsyk/ Getty Images

India’s astonishing variety of sights has to be seen to be believed. Travelers have devoted lifetimes to exploring the famous places and forgotten corners of this incredible country, driven onwards by the certainty that there’s always more to see.

Mughal palaces, towering Hindu temples, mountain monasteries, lost kingdoms, cultured cities, and genteel hill stations in the foothills of the Himalayas all jostle for attention in a country that is proudly shaking off the legacy of colonialism and repositioning itself as a global superpower. With such incredible diversity on offer, there’s just one question – where do you start?

Well, our advice is to not take on too much during a single visit. Pick an area – the tropical south perhaps, or the northern plains, or the mountain valleys of the Himalayas – and give yourself time to pause and soak up the atmosphere as you work through your must-see list .

Wherever you go, you’re guaranteed a mind-expanding and exhilarating blast of color, soul-soaring splendor, earth-shaking history and moments of pure serenity. Equal parts magic and mayhem, this mix is what makes traveling to India such an intense and addictive experience.

While this was no easy list to compile, we’re proud to present our pick of the ten best places to visit in India.

1. Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Best for romantics and fans of Mughal history

At the top of everyone’s bucket list, the Taj Mahal is as glorious as people imagine it would be – a magnificent monument to lost love, executed in pearl-white marble. Views of the world’s most beautiful building framed by a Mughal archway or floating above the misty Yamuna River will be one of the defining moments of any trip to India.

But there’s more to the former Mughal capital than the Taj. Add on a couple of days so you can visit the architecturally stunning tomb of  Emperor Akbar , his rose-red sandstone former capital at Fatehpur Sikri and sprawling Agra Fort , one of India’s most epic fortifications. Thronged by millions of visitors, Agra is not always relaxing, but it’s eternally fascinating.

2. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Best for intense spirituality

There are few places as beguiling and bewitching as the sacred Hindu city of Varanasi . Millennia-old death rituals play out daily at the cremation ghats that line the bank of the sacred River Ganges, while the maze-like alleyways of the nearby old town reveal dizzying surprises at every turn. We defy anyone to visit without experiencing some internal soul-searching about their place in the universe.

Be ready for some challenges. The hard-edged realities of life and death and the inequalities that continue to cause hardship for many in India are obvious on the streets of the world’s oldest living city. But there are also moments of gentleness – rise at dawn and wander the ghats (riverside steps) and you’ll see Varanasi at its most spiritual, with its attention focused on the sacred river, before the tourist bustle changes the mood.

Planning tip: The best way to appreciate Varanasi’s famous ghats is from a rowboat. Boatmen offer their services from first light at boat stations along the west bank of the Ganges, providing views of a riverfront that has changed only superficially in seven centuries.

3. Mumbai, Maharashtra

Best for urban explorers and Bollywood hopefuls

Mumbai is the perfect place to take the pulse of modern India. The most densely populated city in the subcontinent is home to Bollywood film stars, enterprising market vendors, bankers and executives rushing to work in offices, and fishing families who can trace their origins back to the days when this mighty metropolis was just a humble village.

To understand more about the disparities of life in contemporary Mumbai, take a socially responsible tour through the city’s huge and disadvantaged Dharavi district with Reality Tours & Travel ; 80% of the profits go back to social projects providing opportunities for those left behind by Mumbai’s push for success.

The city’s can’t-miss excursion is the boat trip to the 1500-year-old, UNESCO World Heritage-listed rock-cut temples of Elephanta Island , but fantastic street food is the city’s great leveler. Don’t leave without sampling Mumbai's signature snack, bhel poori – puffed rice and fried dough with lentils, onions, herbs and savory chutneys, best sampled on the beach at Chowpatty or Juhu.

Detour: With time to spare in Mumbai, head to the northern suburbs, where Sanjay Gandhi National Park protects a sprawl of dry forest, home to leopards, deer, monkeys and serene Buddhist cave temples.

Best for an extraordinary taste of Tibet

In the far northwest of India, sheltered from the monsoon by the rain shadow of the Himalayas, the former Buddhist kingdom of Ladakh is culturally and geographically closer to western Tibet than anywhere in India. In this high-altitude moonscape, towering Tibetan monasteries melt into a landscape of barren rock and wind-sculpted hoodoos (don’t miss fabulous Hemis and Thiksey on the road linking Ladakh to Himachal Pradesh ). 

Most visitors start in the atmospheric capital, Leh , before roaming to neighboring valleys for homestay treks and trips to view turquoise salt lakes and colorful masked dances at ancient monasteries. Ladakh wasn't touched by China’s Cultural Revolution, so this is perhaps the closest independent travelers can come to experiencing the original culture of Tibet.

Planning tip: Getting to Ladakh is half the fun. Flights run to Leh even in the depths of winter, but the most enjoyable way in is overland, by road from either Srinagar in Kashmir or Manali in Himachal Pradesh. Buses and shared 4WDs run as long as the passes are open from June to the end of September, or you can tackle the route on a rented Enfield motorcycle.

5. Kolkata, West Bengal 

Best for culture vultures

The capital of colonial British India until 1911, Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) is India’s third-biggest metropolis and the country's intellectual and artistic capital. Spend a few days exploring the energetic bazaars, cultured museums and British-era landmarks, and you’ll soon fall in love with Kolkata’s irrepressible energy.

To really get to know Kolkata, sign up for a Bengali cooking course and visit the revered temple at Kalighat , where the goddess Kali is appeased with sacrifices. With more time to spare, book an overnight wildlife-watching tour to the nearby Sundarbans Tiger Reserve , a legendary stalking ground for royal Bengal tigers.

Planning tip: Try to time your visit to coincide with the festival of Durga Puja in September or October, when vividly colorful effigies of the goddess are displayed in pandals (ceremonial tents) all over the city.   

6. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Best for desert drama

The desert state of Rajasthan shows India at its most romantic and soft-filtered. Expect a mirage of camel caravans, ornate palaces, mighty forts, turbaned traders and intense colors, set against a backdrop of shifting desert sands. It’s unbelievably photogenic, but also firmly on the tourist map, so expect to share the experience with a crowd.

The pink-sandstone monuments of Jaipur , the ice-white lakeside palaces of Udaipur , and views of blue-hued Jodhpur from its lofty fort are all stunning experiences, but the city that delivers the biggest jolt to the senses is Jaisalmer , seeming sculpted from the living rock of the desert.

Its tangled lanes, towering fortress and beautifully ornate haveli (traditional houses) could have been plucked from the pages of One Thousand and One Nights , and the surrounding desert is the evocative setting for overnight camel safaris.

Planning tip: While it is possible to stay inside the fortified city, visitor numbers are having an impact on Jaisalmer’s historic heart. We recommend staying outside the walls instead – there are plenty of hotels and guesthouses within strolling distance of the fort.

7. The Kerala Backwaters

Best for lovers of slow travel

After the dusty, densely populated northern plains, tropical South India offers a lusher, more laid-back travel experience. The quintessential trip here is a slow-paced canal cruise through the emerald-green backwaters of Kerala , a 900-mile network of languid, coconut-fringed waterways, offering views of an ever-changing tableaux of South Indian life.

Hire a traditional houseboat in Alappuzha for a multiday trip, then settle in for a succulent Keralan seafood curry prepared by your personal chef as the sunset blushes over shimmering waters and silhouetted palm fronds. Post-cruise, it’s just a short hop up the coast to historic Kochi (Cochin) , with its cantilevered fishing nets and Kathakali dance theaters.

8. Bodhgaya, Bihar

Best for budding Buddhists

As the birthplace of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism (plus countless smaller faiths), India is defined by sacred geography. Even here, however, few places resonate more powerfully than the Bodhi tree where Prince Siddhartha Gautama achieved enlightenment to become the Buddha (Awakened One).

The town that has grown up around this sacred spot is home to dozens of Tibetan and Southeast Asian–style temples and monasteries, with a busy program of Buddhist teachings and courses. It’s the ideal destination for any spiritual explorer.

To get a feel for Bodhgaya ’s rhythms, come early to the Mahabodhi complex and settle in beside chanting Tibetan pilgrims to meditate on the nature of impermanence. Travel experiences don’t get much more profound than this.

Planning tip: Bodhgaya is just one stop on the so-called "Buddhist circuit," taking in key locations from the life of the historical Buddha. Local buses run to nearby Rajgir, the site of one of the first Buddhist monasteries, and Nalanda's ancient Buddhist university complex.  

9. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Best for a premium cup of tea with a view

Fanned by the cool breezes of the eastern Himalayas, surrounded by manicured tea estates and basking in front of epic Himalayan views, Darjeeling is easy to fall for.

For a perfect day, watch the dawn break over 8586m (20,169ft) Kangchenjunga, learn the difference between first-flush and white teas on a plantation tour, linger over an afternoon cuppa at the  Windamere Hotel , then learn about the Tibetan experience at the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre .

The classiest way to arrive is via the nostalgic, narrow-gauge toy train ; book tickets in advance and check to see if the steam service is running (the diesel train follows the same route, but has less charm). Don’t miss the Buddhist gompas (monasteries) dotted around the city. Below Darjeeling on the fringes of Ghum, historic Yiga Choeling Gompa has a special magic.

Planning tip: Darjeeling isn’t the only interesting stop in the area. Shared 4WDs buzz from Darjeeling to Kalimpong , another historic township with colorful Buddhist monasteries, Himalayan views and pretty flower nurseries. 

10. Hampi, Karnataka

Best for a full immersion in history

Between the 14th and 16th centuries CE, the capital of the Vijayanagar empire at Hampi was home to half a million people, but this ancient metropolis was almost completely abandoned, leaving 3700 stone monuments scattered across a surreal plain of boulders.

This is a place to linger, strolling between the boulders to find carved masonry, forgotten shrines and the handsome remains of some of South India’s most dramatic stone temples.

Glance up as you wander and you’ll see rock climbers tackling bouldering routes using chisel marks made by ancient masons. Rent a motorcycle or scooter and you can roam further afield, taking in the hilltop temple marking the spot where the monkey god Hanuman first met Lord Rama.

Planning tip: Hampi is a short bus ride from the town of Hosapete – get here by overnight train from Goa’s beaches, historic Hyderabad or the cosmopolitan southern city of Bengaluru .

11. Arunachal Pradesh

Best for stepping off the map

Tucked away near Bangladesh, the eight Northeast States – Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim – are India’s wild frontier. Until the 1990s, this region of rugged mountain valleys was mostly off-limits to foreigners, and visitor numbers are still small – people who travel here earn the right to call themselves proper explorers. 

Sikkim is the most famous destination in the Northeast States, but we’d encourage you east towards the forested foothills and jagged mountains of Arunachal Pradesh , where tribal communities follow a diverse range of traditional belief systems, from the Buddhist Monpa people of Tawang to the animist Apatani people of the Ziro valley. 

Planning tip: Travel takes a bit of effort in Arunachal Pradesh; you’ll need to apply for a permit to enter the state, and local transport is patchy. By far the easiest way to explore is with a chartered 4WD and driver (easily arranged in Guwahati in Assam).  

12. Amritsar, Punjab

Best for experiencing the power of devotion

India has pilgrimage destinations to spare, but few come close to the vibrant energy of the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The most sacred site for the Sikh religion is a gleaming jewel box, floating in a mirror-like sacred pool, thronged day and night by an unbelievable mass of pilgrims. You don’t have to be spiritually inclined to feel its powerful rhythms. 

Joining devotees at the Sri Harmandir Sahib – the gold-paneled shrine at the heart of the complex – is incredibly moving. Staying overnight in the pilgrims' hostels that flank the temple compound only adds to the intensity. A donation is much appreciated for accommodation if possible, though pilgrims of all means will be accommodated if space is available. You can also sit down for meals at the temple langar (kitchen), which provides cost-free nourishment to a staggering 100,000 people per day (again, a donation is appreciated if you have the means).

Planning tip: Don’t limit your explorations to the Golden Temple – the surrounding bazaars buzz with energy and atmosphere, with vendors selling everything from embroidered chappals (sliders) to brass and polished steel pots and pans.   

13. Mysuru (Mysore), Karnataka

Best for feeling like a Maharaja

The atmospheric South Indian city of Mysuru has multiple charms: towering temples, one of India’s most evocative marketplaces, and the almost impossibly extravagant crib that is Mysuru Palace , the ancestral home of the Wadiyar maharajas. No building conjures up the extravagant lives of India’s royal rulers quite so vividly – every room is a fantasy, every ornament an heirloom. 

Around the palace are busy bazaars, rewarding museums and a string of Hindu temples in the classic Dravidian (Southern Indian) architectural style. Devote several days to wandering the streets, hiking up to the Sri Chamundeshwari Temple on Chamundi Hill and feasting on fiery vegetarian  thalis (plate meals) in Mysuru’s restaurants.  

14. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Best for tiger encounters

The national parks of Madhya Pradesh are some of the best places on the planet to get close to royal Bengal tigers. Seeing one of these striped superstars loping out of the jungle will stay with you for a lifetime – as well as leaving you heartbroken at the thought of how few tigers still survive in the wild.

Everyone has their favorite tiger reserve, but we rate Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve near Jabalpur for the density of wildlife in its central Tala range. Around 70 tigers roam these dry forests, alongside leopards, monkeys, deer and gaur – India’s gigantic wild buffalo. There’s a high likelihood of sightings if you devote several days to 4WD safaris (elephant safaris should be avoided as riding can be harmful to these vulnerable animals). 

Planning tip: The best time to see tigers is first thing in the morning – safaris start at 5:30am to catch tigers before they stake out a shady spot in the undergrowth to sleep through the heat of the day. 

15. Madurai, Tamil Nadu

Best for religious splendor

South India's Hindu temples are a joyous celebration of the divine, decorated inside and out with vividly colorful depictions of deities and supernatural beings, both fearsome and sublime. In the southern city of Madurai , the towering gopurams (gateway towers) of the Meenakshi Amman Temple provide a three-dimensional guide to the main deities of the Hindu pantheon.

The current temple was constructed in the 17th century, but the site has been sacred to Meenakshi, the queen of the Pandya kingdom and an incarnation of the goddess Parvati, for at least 2000 years. Come early in the morning to watch sunrise bring the temple to life, then pop to the nearest branch of Murugan Idli Shop for some of the south’s best idli (steamed rice and lentil cakes).  

Detour: A short bus or train ride from Madurai, Tiruchirappalli – aka Trichy – is another top spot for temple enthusiasts. The looming Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is one of the world’s largest Hindu shrines, covering 155 acres (63 hectares) and topped by 21 deity-encrusted towers. More temples crown the rocky outcrop at the heart of the city, offering epic views over the rooftops.  

This article was first published Mar 20, 2022 and updated Dec 11, 2023.

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The best tour of india, it could all end tomorrow sale may 2 - may 16, annual spring sale apr. 4 - 18.

• Delhi - 5 Days
• Agra - 1 Day
• Ranthambore - 2 Days
• Jaipur - 3 Days
• Narlai - 1 Day
• Udaipur - 2 Days
• Aurangabad - 2 Days
• Mumbai - 2 Days
• Cochin - 2 Days
• Backwaters - 1 Day
• Eleven UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Guided Walk Through Four Ancient Bazaars
• Cycle Rickshaw and Tuk-Tuk Ride Experience
• An Amazing Museum and an Art Gallery
• Kathakali Dance Performance
• Backwaters Houseboat Cruise in Kerala
• Cooking Lesson and Home Dining Experience
• Sunrise and Sunset Boat Cruises on the Holy River
• Ancient Aarti Prayer Ceremony at Varanasi
• Sunrise and Sunset Visits to the Taj Mahal
• Three Wildlife safaris at Ranthambore Tiger Park
• Elephant and Camel Back Rides
• Rajasthani Village Walk
• Boat Ride on Lake Pichola
• Fisherman's Village Walk at Cochin

Day 1: Arrive at Delhi.        Overnight – Taj Palace, New Delhi

Most flights arrive either in the late evening or at night, and we recommend that our guests consider arriving a day earlier as this allows you to recuperate from jetlag and serves as insurance against international flight delays and cancellations. An additional night’s stay can be added at the time of reservation.

Welcome to India, home to incredible historical monuments, a plethora of natural wonders, and the world’s most colorful culture.

Welcome to India, home to incredible historical monuments, a plethora of natural wonders, and the world’s most colorful culture. You are greeted by as you exit the airport and ushered to a chauffeur driven vehicle. You are now driven to your hotel and assisted with your check-in if it is 3 pm or later. The next day’s plans are briefly reviewed. While you are here, we recommend that you take the time to enjoy the incredible facilities of your hotel, including their heated indoor and outdoor pools and their wonderful spa and its fascinating offerings. Yoga sessions are available in the mornings. (Overnight – Taj Palace, New Delhi)

Day 2: Delhi. (Breakfast and Lunch)       Overnight – Taj Palace, New Delhi

Qutab Minar. Start your exploration of New Delhi with a drive to the awe-inspiring 12th century Qutab Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Delhi has over 500 ancient structures strewn over its vast expanse, with many of them in various states of disrepair. For mankind’s achievements from about a millennium ago, the Qutab Minar is unmatched in its architectural brilliance and longevity. This 240 ft tall medieval tower is a symbol of victory and a spectacular example of Persian architecture, with intricate carvings and gorgeous inlaid calligraphy.

Qutab Minar

Iron Pillar. Within the Qutab complex, amidst the ruins of the Quwat-ul-Islam Mosque, stands the legendary 2500-year-old Iron Pillar. The pillar stands 23 feet and 8 inches tall, weighs about 7000 pounds, and has inscriptions that are still legible to a great extent. This massive cast iron structure is said to have been moved from its distant cave shelter to Delhi around the 12th century.

You will stop for a view of the exterior of the massive and awe-inspiring Rashtrapati Bhawan, which was known as the Viceroy’s House during the British era.

Lutyens’s New Delhi. From here you will proceed for a drive through some of Lutyens’ historic New Delhi. Your drive will take you through Delhi’s Diplomatic Enclave on tree lined avenues surrounded by embassies of the world’s major nations. You will stop for a view of the exterior of the massive and awe-inspiring Rashtrapati Bhawan, home to Inia’s President. From here one can enjoy a striking view of the India Gate at the other end of majestic and historic Rajpath, the former Kingsway. After a very short drive on Rajpath you will arrive at the India Gate, a War Memorial to the 84,000 British Indian Army soldiers who lost their lives in the First World War, and Indian casualties in other wars.

Front View of Humayun's Tomb

It is one of Delhi’s three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and its striking beauty and flawless proportions will captivate you.

Humayun’s Tomb (UWHS). After a break for lunch, continue with a visit to the magnificent tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. Delhi has such an abundance of amazing monuments that this Tomb Complex (1562 A.D.) does not quite get the acclaim that it deserves - its striking beauty and flawless proportions will captivate you.

Lodi Gardens. A short drive will bring you to the historic and beautiful Lodi Gardens. This massive garden complex is spread over 90 acres of priceless real estate in the heart of Delhi, and contains the tombs of various rulers of the Pashtun Dynasty that ruled much of Northern India during the 16th century. There are lush lawns and a plethora of flowers and plants mixed in with all the monuments.

Street Art District. Very near the gardens is the Lodi Art District, your last destination before returning to your hotel. Delhi isn’t famous for its street art and murals, and the large amount of street art found all over this upscale part of the city will both surprise and delight you. The subject matter ranges from quirky to distinctly ethnic Indian and there will be surprises around every corner. (Overnight – Taj Palace, New Delhi)

Day 3: Delhi. (Breakfast and Lunch)       Overnight – Taj Palace, New Delhi

Old Delhi: A slightly early breakfast will reward you with a lot less traffic on your way to see some of the achievements of one of our planet’s greatest ruling dynasties ever – India’s legendary Mughal Empire . For centuries, their shadow stretched over a vast region well beyond India, and you will experience much more than their 3 most famous creations, the Taj Mahal, Red Fort, and Agra Fort. North India’s cultures, cuisines, racial makeup, and a lot more is heavily influenced by the Mughal’s long rule. The result is an incredible fusion of cultures and styles in the cuisine, fine arts, architecture, social taboos, and a lot more.

Red Fort. Start your discovery of Old Delhi at the awe-inspiring Red Fort. The great city inside the massive sandstone walls of the Red Fort offers visitors a large number of architectural and historical attractions. The Red Fort was the seat of the Mughal Empire for more than two hundred and fifty years and is obviously a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an amazing example of a blend of Persian, Indian and European architecture. Both this fortified city and the Jama Masjid (that you will visit later today) were built by Shah Jahan, the Mughal Emperor who created the Taj Mahal.

Lunch. After this you will drive close by for lunch at the historic Curzon Room in the century old Maidens Hotel.

Chandni Chowk Bazaar. One of your most enduring memories of India will be your next experience as you walk through the ancient (from the time of the Mughals) Chandni Chowk Bazaar, home to the world’s largest spice market. The cacophony of sounds which have echoed through the centuries, the cries of hawkers and the animated bargaining, along with the incredible colors and the diverse smells emanating from the street food stalls and spice markets combine to make for an experience that is unique to this ancient bazaar.

Jama Masjid

Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Nobles), Red Fort

Jama Masjid + E-Rickshaw Ride. This will be followed by an e-rickshaw ride which ends at the Jama Masjid (1650 A.D.), the largest mosque in India. The Masjid is a magnificent example of Mughal architecture and is constructed of red sandstone and white marble. It is an active place of worship and its courtyard can hold 25,000 worshippers. Bare legs and shoulders are not permitted inside the mosque and we include rented sarongs and scarves. After exploring the mosque, you will avoid the worst of Delhi’s rush hour on the drive back to your hotel. (Overnight – Taj Palace, New Delhi)

Day 4: Delhi – Agra. (Breakfast and Lunch)        Overnight – IHCL Tajview Hotel by Taj Hotels

Drive. After a slightly early breakfast (so as to avoid Delhi’s notorious rush hour traffic which starts in earnest after 8:30am), you are assisted with your check-out from your hotel and now you proceed on the drive to Agra, much of which is on an elevated tollway that allows for interesting views of the farmland and villages surrounding it.

Agra Fort (UWHS). Arrive at Agra and you are driven to the first red sandstone fort of North India, the Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an amazing example of a blend of Persian, Indian and European architecture and was built in 1565 by India’s greatest Mughal ruler, Emperor Akbar. Its royal audience halls, immense stone courtyards, marble mosque and the private royal chambers give us a glimpse of the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. There are unique views of the Taj Mahal from a section of the fort, including the room where the Taj Mahal’s creator, Emperor Shah Jahan, was imprisoned during the later years of his life by his infamous son and successor, Aurangzeb.

Lunch and Check-in. will be at an acclaimed restaurant that offers great Indian cuisine and a small selection of very good western food options. After lunch you will return to your hotel and be assisted with your check-in. proceed to your hotel. At this moderately upscale hotel, you will stay in renovated larger rooms that offer some of Agra’s best views of the Taj Mahal.

Taj Mahal at midday

After exploring the fort you will proceed for a late afternoon visit to the Taj Mahal. Experience the amazing Taj and its surroundings in bright sunlight, culminating with an opportunity to admire the sun’s rays setting on the façade of the world’s finest monument.

Sunset at the Taj Mahal (UWHS). You will proceed nearby for a late afternoon visit to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the incomparable Taj Mahal. Experience the amazing Taj and its surroundings in bright sunlight, culminating with an opportunity to admire the sun’s rays setting on the façade of the world’s finest monument. The Taj Mahal was completed by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1653 A.D. as a memorial to his beloved queen Mumtaz Mahal. This spectacular white marble mausoleum was created by about 22,000 skilled craftsmen, many of whom were brought here from far away nations, and it took twenty two years to complete. (Overnight – IHCL Tajview Hotel by Taj Hotels)

Day 5: Agra – Ranthambore (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)       Overnight – IHCL Sawai Madhopur Lodge

Sunrise at the Taj Mahal. A sunrise visit as morning is the best time to experience it in terms of crowds - it is more expensive for Indian tourists to enter at this early hour and so the massive monument and its surrounding Mughal gardens have a lot fewer visitors than the rest of the day. As the rising sun’s rays illuminate the precious stones inlaid in the marble they will gleam momentarily and change colors.

Chand Baori Stepwell. Return to your hotel in time for breakfast and to prepare for the day’s journey, after which you are driven to the Chand Baori stepwell at Abhaneri, located just off the highway to Jaipur. The massive 10th century Chand Baori Stepwell is one of the most impressive in all of India and is located next to a charming Rajasthani village. The depth of the stepwell is that of a modern 7 story building, and there are stairs (no longer accessible to visitors) leading down to the bottom from three of the 100 foot plus wide (35 meters) sides, creating symmetry and beauty to the ancient structure.

Drive on to Ranthambore. After a stop for lunch, you will continue on with your journey to Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore National Park). Much of this drive is through rural Rajasthan and there are colorful villagers around you going about their daily activities. You will also encounter many camels and other livestock on this drive. Since 2006 Easy Tours of India has tracked the percentage of tiger sightings for our guests in Ranthambore National Park. More than 85% of our guests have had tiger sightings during this period, with most of them getting multiple sightings. (Overnight – IHCL Sawai Madhopur Lodge)

Day 6: Ranthambore (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)        Overnight – IHCL Sawai Madhopur Lodge

The Wildlife Sanctuary. Covering an area of 410 square kilometers, Ranthambore National Park runs along the eastern spur of the Aravalli Mountain range until it meets with the Vindhya ranges. Ranthambore was once the Jaipur rulers’ private hunting ground. In 1972 it was declared a Sanctuary and was brought under the Project Tiger Conservation platform. Dry deciduous forest covers most of the park, and the vegetation is lush around the many small lakes and ponds. The open grasslands that are the tiger’s favorite terrain account for much of the land on the higher slopes. This varied flora supports a large number of animals including a variety of deer and antelope, crocodiles, the sloth bear, over 320 species of birds, leopards and one of India’s highest densities of the Bengal Tiger.

Alpha Male Tiger at Ranthambore

Large Male Leopard at Ranthambore

Morning Jeep Safari. As in all of India’s National Wildlife Parks, safaris are operated by the Forest Department with their naturalists and department regulated drivers.

Afternoon Jeep Safari. Safaris are usually about 3.5-to-4-hour excursions from your lodge.

Ranthambore Fort. Guests who want can join their Guide for an earlier start after lunch and visit the Ranthambore Fort. The steps to the Fort are located next to the Park Entry Gate, and you will be able to board your safari vehicle after visiting the Fort.

This excursion does have a fairly steep climb with almost 300 stairs that are always surrounded by dozens of monkeys. The massive Fort is one of the finest examples of the ancient Hindu concept of Vana-Durg, or a fort protected by a jungle. The history of this Fort (built in 944 A.D.) is a chronicle full of tales of blood and valor. Successively occupied by the Muslims, Rajput’s and Mughals, the insides of the fort today lie partly in ruin. There are superb views of the park to be had from its ramparts. There is also an ancient temple located in the fort which attracts a continuous stream of pilgrims from the surrounding villages. A note of caution – a large number of aggressive langurs (a larger than average South Asian monkey) have made the Fort area their home and it is not advisable to have food or shiny objects visible as you tour the fort as such items will be aggressively snatched away, and this could cause injury. (Overnight – IHCL Tajview Hotel by Taj Hotels)

Day 7: Ranthambore – Jaipur. (Breakfast and Lunch)        Overnight – Jai Mahal Palace

Morning Jeep Safari. Enjoy your last jeep safari into Ranthambore in the morning. Return to your resort after the safari to freshen up and have breakfast. You are assisted with your check-out from your jungle lodge and then there is a break for lunch.

Drive to Jaipur (UWHC). After lunch you are driven to Jaipur. Arrive at Jaipur and you are assisted with your check-in at your beautiful and historic palace hotel. You are in the center of Jaipur, and most of your sightseeing is fairly easy to reach despite the city’s bustling traffic. (Overnight – Jai Mahal Palace)

Day 8: Jaipur. (Breakfast and Lunch)        Overnight – Jai Mahal Palace

Pink City Exploration. Begin your exploration of the walled pink city of Jaipur. You will start with a stroll through the fascinating main bazaar in the heart of the pink city, and watch the locals as they shop for pretty much everything a consumer can possibly want. This atmospheric and crowded bazaar has street sellers of vegetables, fruit and other goods occupying the curbs with their displays. There are stores selling spices, nuts, flowers, toys, footwear, hardware, and a lot more, mixed in with street food vendors and brick and mortar eating establishments. Byzantine alleys lead into inner courtyard shops.

Hawa Mahal. After a few minutes of walking, you will arrive at the most photographed of Jaipur’s monuments, the enchanting Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Wind). This intriguing facade was built in 1799 so that the ladies of the court could use its unique windows and observe the bustling bazaar without being visible to the people on the streets. There is a break for lunch in a top-rated restaurant nearby.

Jantar Mantar. After lunch you will proceed for a visit to the Jantar Mantar (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), a fascinating stone observatory built in 1728. Among other instruments, it includes a massive stone sun dial that is accurate to within 2 seconds.

City Palace. Located next to Jantar Mantar is the City Palace, the royal residence that was built in a delightful blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles. A part of this massive complex is still occupied by the Royal family and is not accessible to the public. Your Tour Director will regale you with stories of royalty as you admire their trappings. This immense complex also houses a number of museums that include displays of armor, miniature paintings, and a large and impressive collection of ancient royal garments and accoutrements. (Overnight – Jai Mahal Palace)

Day 9: Jaipur. (Breakfast and Lunch)        Overnight – Jai Mahal Palace

Albert Hall. Today will include three of Jaipur’s significant attractions, which also happen to be among the most wonderful opportunities for photography in India. First you are driven to a very scenic location in Jaipur adjacent to a public park, The Albert Hall Museum, which was completed in 1887 by the architect Samuel Swinton Jacob. You won’t enter the museum as this stop is solely for you to walk around and take-in the absolutely gorgeous Indo-Saracenic architecture. Rudyard Kipling (himself the son of a museum curator) on a visit was so impressed that he wrote "it is now a rebuke to all other museums in India from Calcutta downwards".

Part of Galtaji (Monkey) Temple Complex

Monkey Temple. Monkey Temple. From here you are driven to the ancient Hindu pilgrimage site of Galtaji, located in a crevice in the Aravalli Hills. This 15th century complex of temples here is sometimes referred to as the Monkey Temple by tourists because a large tribe of monkeys lives here and believes they own the complex. The picturesque complex of temples has seven ponds that are fed by springs on the surrounding hilltops, and Hindu pilgrims consider taking a dip in these to be purifying. The beautiful temple complex has been a retreat for a sect of Hindu ascetics since the 16th century. The monkeys agree and swim around the main pond with reckless abandon, and many of them can be seen diving into the tank from various vantage points. Enjoy a guided tour of the beautiful Galtaji Temple, which is crafted in pink stone. There are other ancient temples in the complex, and you will visit a couple of them, including the Balaji Temple. Monkeys are everywhere, and they are obviously in-charge! For someone not used to their social behavior and grooming rituals, observing them can be fascinating.

Amer Fort and Palace

Amer Fort (UWHS). From here you will be driven to the Amer Fort & Palace Complex, breaking for lunch as you approach the hilltop forted city. After lunch you will explore the awe-inspiring and massive Amber Fort and Palace Complex. This complex was completed in 1599 AD after 25 years of construction. You will be driven to the back entrance as Easy Tours does not offer elephant-back ascents up the ramparts of the complex. The massive forted city inside the complex is one of India’s finest examples of Rajput architecture. You will explore the gorgeous chambers and hallways, which are famous for their exquisite designs and handcrafted embellishments. Your Guide will regale you with the history of the various structures as you take in the amazing workmanship of the craftsmen who created them.

Optional Shopping Excursion. You will return to your palace hotel in the mid-afternoon, and those who are interested have the option of a shopping stop along the way. Guests who are not interested will continue on and enjoy their palace’s facilities in the late afternoon. Jaipur is India’s shopping mecca for all sorts of exquisite hand-crafted items, fabrics, carpets, as well as jewelery. If some guests choose this stop, your guide will accompany you and your vehicle will return shortly to pick you up for the drive back to the palace. (Overnight – Jai Mahal Palace)

Day 10: Jaipur - Narlai. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)        Overnight – Rawla Narlai

16th Century Narlai Village. After a slightly early breakfast, you are driven to historic Rawla Narlai, a 17th century Royal Lodge located right in the middle of a wonderful and authentic ancient village. Rawla means Royal Palace, Narlai is the name of the village. Much of the so-called rural tourism offered in Rajasthan is at locales that receive a constant stream of visitors and most of their guest experiences are, at least partially, staged. This large 16th Century village (almost 6000 residents) of Narlai is about as real as it gets for observing a relatively well-off village’s daily activities and people.

Rajasthani Village

Rawla Narlai. The ancient royal lodge has been meticulously restored by its owners, the Royal Family of Jodhpur, and calling it boutique would be a vast understatement. There are two wings – one being the original 17th Century hunting lodge, and a more modern wing that was built around two decades ago. Near the lodge and visible from various vantage points is a massive ancient volcanic granite boulder called Elephant Hill, with a historic small Hindu Temple at its peak, and many caves carved into its facade.

300 Year or 25-Year-Old Room? Please note although that the lodge rooms in the new wing are larger and have more modern conveniences and more natural light, we recommend the rooms in the ancient wing as their incredible historical charm is a unique experience not found elsewhere. However, if you prefer natural light and/or modern conveniences, we recommend the new wing. Rooms in both wings have upscale traditional Rajasthani artwork, furnishings and décor, and the heritage wing rooms obviously have more antiques. If you choose the new wing, you will still experience a lot of the 17th Century lodge’s original features. You will select your room preference soon after your tour reservation.

The cuisine served at the lodge is sourced from their own organic farms and orchards, as well as other farms surrounding the village. The chefs are attentive and will customize your meals to your preferences, and just like in every resort that you will stay in while in Rajasthan, there are live local cultural performances every evening.

Ancient Stepwell Magical Dinner Experience: After sunset you will be assisted in climbing aboard traditional bullock carts and transported through the dark countryside to a charming 16th Century stepwell. Your small group’s private magical dinner will be at the stepwell, accompanied by live local folk music and accented by hundreds of oil lamps adorning the steps of the stepwell. As you enjoy a multi-course dinner of local delicacies and the lodge’s attentive service, the oil lamps and countless stars will illuminate this amazing night. (Overnight – Rawla Narlai)

Day 11: Narlai – Udaipur. (Breakfast and Lunch)        Overnight – Taj Fateh Prakash Palace

Soft Adventure Options. Guests can select one of two activities for the early morning today, or choose to relax and sleep in. Couples and family/friends can temporarily separate to enjoy one or the other.

Climb Elephant Hill. The first option is to accompany one of the lodge stewards (they do this daily) up the 756 ancient hand carved steps that lead to the peak of Elephant Hill where you can enjoy the spectacular views and visit the small Hindu Temple. Your lodge steward will carry a hot beverage and snacks for your refreshment at the top of the boulder.

Large Male Leopard

Leopard Jeep Safari. The other option is to board one of the lodge’s jeeps with a lodge naturalist and head into the surrounding jungle in search of leopards, who are known to be elusive animals. Sightings of tigers at India’s better National Parks are much more frequent than leopards, but leopard sightings are fairly common around Narlai, which is not a National Park. At the least you will enjoy an adventure into small rural communities and the jungle. The ride is bumpy as you are traversing rough terrain.

In both cases you will return to the lodge to have a late delicious breakfast and then you can enjoy your fascinating surroundings for a little while. You will check out just before noon and, proceed on the drive to Udaipur, with a short diversion for a fascinating stop. A very short drive from Narlai will bring you to one of India’s least known architectural marvels, the 15th Century Ranakpur Jain Temple, which also happens to be an active place of worship.

Ranakpur Jain Temple. Explore the awe-inspiring marble temple complex. The main temple’s twenty-nine halls are supported by fourteen hundred and forty-four massive yet intricately carved marble pillars, and no two are of the same design. There is an abundance of intricate sculptures and friezes and the enormous scale of the monument and the exquisite details of its design have to be experienced to be believed.

Scenic Drive to Udaipur. You will break for lunch after exploring the temple complex. After lunch you will continue on with your journey to Udaipur. This is one of the most picturesque drives in all of India. As you go through the Aravalli hills there will be photo opportunities of village life and livestock, including many camels. The rolling landscape and the charm of the local villages and their colorful inhabitants will fascinate you during this 2.5-hour journey. Arrive at the City Palace of Udaipur, which is the city’s main attraction, and also your lakeside lodging.

Fateh Prakash Palace. The fabled City Palace Complex contains multiple old palaces and other structures. Your lodging, the Fateh Prakash Palace, is located on the complex’s picturesque lakeside. Your beautifully renovated historic rooms have traditional Jarokha windows that offer views of Lake Pichola and more. (Overnight – Taj Fateh Prakash Palace)

Day 12: Udaipur (Breakfast and Lunch).        Overnight – Taj Fateh Prakash Palace

Monsoon Palace. This morning you are driven to visit the Monsoon Palace, a small hilltop structure that offers amazing views of the picturesque city of Udaipur and its lakes and palaces. The journey up the hill takes you through a protected wildlife sanctuary and occasional small wildlife sightings can be experienced. After a few minutes exploring the historical structure, you will experience the spectacular view of the lakes and palaces of Udaipur, set picturesquely amidst the Aravalli Mountain range.

Udaipur Walk. Next up is an easy and delightful walk in the picturesque ancient part of the small city. With its small-town atmosphere, laid back Udaipur is one of India’s best places to explore on foot, and your guide will take you for walks in small local bazaars and other interesting parts of this charming city. A brief stop during the walk will be at a gallery where accomplished local artists create Udaipur’s famous and fascinating miniature paintings.

3-Wheeler Scooter Ride. You will also enjoy a slightly bumpy (there are no shock absorbers) three-wheeler scooter ride to your destination for lunch, which will be at the lakefront Sunset Terrace restaurant at the entrance of the massive City Palace Complex. Enjoy lunch while experiencing one of the best lake views in all of Udaipur.

City Palace Complex, Udaipur

City Palace. After lunch you will enter the fabled City Palace Complex which contains multiple old palaces and other structures. You will explore beautifully decorated rooms with thousands of exquisitely sculpted mirrors covering the walls, massive ivory doors (a dark reminder of Indian royalty’s passion for hunting), brightly colored stained-glass windows, expansive inlaid marble balconies, and the unique peacock courtyard. There are amazing views to be had from this structure, especially of Lake Pichola, the Lake Palace, and Jag Mandir Island.

Crystal Gallery. A highlight of the palace complex, you will enjoy a tour of the amazing Crystal Gallery which houses the world’s largest collection of priceless crystal. Marvel at pieces like the complete bedroom furniture set in crystal and the gorgeous crystal fountains in the courtyards.

Sunset Cruise. After exploring the complex, you will proceed to the palace jetty and board your boat for a private cruise on captivating Lake Pichola to enjoy wonderful views of Lake Pichola and magical Udaipur. Disembark from your cruise and walk back to your nearby room. (Overnight – Taj Fateh Prakash Palace)

Day 13: Udaipur – Aurangabad. (Breakfast and Lunch)        Overnight – Taj Vivanta

You are driven to the airport and assisted in boarding your late morning one-stop flight to Aurangabad. Your guide will assist you in transferring planes during the 3-hour layover at Hyderabad – your bags will have been checked through at Udaipur. Arrive at Aurangabad and you are driven to your comfortable hotel and assisted with check-in to your hotel.

The Ajanta & Ellora monuments and caves (both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites) near Aurangabad are widely recognized as India’s two most amazing archeological sites, and among the world’s most amazing achievements of ancient man. All our guests’ wonder why they are not part of other tours. Many guests have stated that, combined, they are more impressive than the monuments in the Angkor Region, not even taking into account that these two sites are twice as old! (Overnight – Taj Vivanta)

Day 14: Aurangabad. (Breakfast and Lunch)        Overnight – Taj Vivanta – Premium Suite

Ajanta Caves. After breakfast you will enjoy an excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ajanta. A choice of sandwiches and accompaniments that will be edible for a few hours is included from your hotel for this excursion. Buddhist monks and local craftsmen began excavating, sculpting, and painting at Ajanta in the 2nd century B.C. The incredible variety of paintings and sculptures were created in hard rock by using primitive yet ingenious lighting, tools and materials. These 28 caves are a testimony to the devotion of the Buddhists, as well as the talents of their skilled craftsmen.

2000 Year Old Wall Painting in Ajanta

Unmatched 2000-Year-Old Paintings. Of particular interest is the concept of Vertical Excavation. When your Easy Tours Tour Director passionately explains this concept and describes the processes, you will be awed by the achievements of the craftsmen. Although the caves themselves are very impressive in their design and massive volume of sculpturing and excavation, it is the art inside the caves that will take your breath away. The incredible artistry and colors of the paintings and sculptures is unique – such art has not been seen anywhere else, not just in India, but anywhere in the world. Ajanta's incredible paintings are even more impressive considering that the color and texture you're admiring today was created by artists about two thousand years ago. (Overnight – Taj Vivanta – Premium Suite)

Day 15: Aurangabad – Mumbai. (Breakfast and Lunch)        Overnight – The Trident Nariman Point

Ellora Caves. You are assisted with your checkout from your hotel after breakfast and you will leave your baggage with the bell desk. Proceed for an excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ellora. A choice of sandwiches and accompaniments that will be edible for a few hours is included from your hotel for this excursion. Explore the magnificently sculptured cave temples and monasteries of Ellora. There are 34 Caves here, and any one of them would individually be considered a significant attraction in most nations. They were built between 600 - 1000 A.D. and are devoted to Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism. Seventeen of these caves illustrate a resurgence of Hinduism in this area, as reflected by their Hindu themes, sculpture and art.

Kailash Temple at Ellora

Kailash Temple. The epitome of this is Cave 16, the awe-inspiring Kailash Temple. It was finished during the 8th century and is supposed to evoke one of the abodes of Lord Shiva, Mount Kailash in the Himalayas. The Kailash Temple is notable for its immense scale and detail; it is the most awe-inspiring of all of the amazing monuments at Ajanta/Ellora. More than 200,000 tons of rock was excavated and six generations of craftsmen worked for a hundred and twenty years to create this masterpiece.

Flight to Mumbai. Return to your hotel to pick up your baggage and use the facilities to freshen up. We recommend that you consider eating at one of the hotel food outlets before heading to the airport. At the appropriate time you are driven to Aurangabad airport in time to board your evening flight to Mumbai. Upon your arrival in Mumbai, you will be driven to your beautiful oceanfront hotel and assisted with your check-in.

Mumbai Bay & Ocean Views. Your hotel has one of the best locations in Mumbai and your room’s views of the massive bay, the Queen’s Necklace (Marine Drive), and the city of Mumbai, are spectacular. The area around your hotel is where middle class residents of Mumbai come in the evenings to enjoy the ocean breeze and socialize. It is a great place to walk on your own, as locals sit on the seaside promenade and street vendors hawk their wares to them, from street food to toys to foot massages! You can safely and comfortably explore the surroundings of your Mumbai lodging until the late evening. (Overnight – The Trident Nariman Point)

Day 16: Mumbai. (Breakfast and Lunch)        Overnight – The Trident Nariman Point

Heart of Mumbai Tour. The tour begins at the nearby Gateway of India, situated overlooking Mumbai’s harbor. This structure was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai and India in 1905. After this a short drive takes you to the impressive Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, previously known as Victoria Terminus. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is India’s finest example of Gothic architecture and one of the world’s busiest railway stations.

Gateway of India

Leisurely Introductory Walk. From here you will enjoy a walk-through Mumbai’s most interesting areas, stopping every few minutes to admire historic attractions while being surrounded by local residents going about their daily activities. The next 3 hours or so will be a fascinating experience during which you will end up walking just under 2 miles, with frequent stops at the multitude of attractions. You will stroll through busy street bazaars and public parks where cricket is being played on most days, stopping to take in the incredible architectural details of century plus old Gothic and Victorian buildings that were constructed during the British Raj.

Chhatrapathi Shivaji Terminus

Historical Attractions. You will admire the historic Flora Fountain, and then another short walk will take you to Horniman’s Circle. Next, after a 2-minute walk, is Mumbai’s Town Hall, situated by the Mumbai’s docks. After this you will take another short walk and stop to enjoy a brief tour inside the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, which was known as the Prince of Wales Museum until very recently. This is Mumbai’s premier museum, with beautiful Indo-Saracenic architecture, and includes sections of paintings, archeology, and natural history. Another 5 minutes of walking will end up with a break for an ala carte lunch at the iconic Leopold Café, a popular establishment that has been serving food to Mumbai’s residents since 1871 and was one of the targets during the 2008 Mumbai terrorism attack.

Dhobi Ghat. After lunch you will drive to Mumbai’s main Dhobi Ghat where you will observe the Dhobi’s doing Mumbai’s laundry by flogging the clothes on stone in the same manner that they have for more than a century. Over 100,000 pieces are laundered every day and hung to dry on seemingly unending clotheslines, then ironed, and delivered to far reaching areas of Mumbai. The profession is passed on from generation to generation.

Hanging Gardens. Continue your exploration by driving further on Marine Drive and go up Malabar Hill where the Hanging Gardens provide a panoramic view of the city and bay. In the middle of the afternoon, avoiding the infamous Mumbai rush hour traffic, you are driven back to your hotel to enjoy its surroundings, views, and extensive facilities. Please select your choice of packed breakfast with the hotel staff this evening. (Overnight – The Trident Nariman Point)

Day 17: Mumbai – Cochin. (Breakfast and Lunch)        Overnight – Brunton Boatyard

Flight to Cochin. You are driven to Mumbai Airport in the early morning (with your packed breakfast) for your morning flight to Cochin. Upon arrival at Cochin Airport, you are driven to historic Fort Kochi. Lunch will be on the way (1.5-to-2-hour drive) to Fort Kochi, or upon arrival there. After lunch you will be assisted with check-in to your wonderful boutique lodge.

Brunton Boatyard

This is by far the best lodging in the ancient historic seaport, and many of our guests rate their experience here higher than the ultra-lux hotels they have already stayed at.

Brunton Boatyard. You are at leisure to freshen-up and enjoy the facilities for a couple of hours. Your lodge serves amazing coastal Keralan cuisine, which is completely different from Indian cuisine most visitors have ever experienced and blends the flavors of the many foreign cultures that influenced this spice trading city in the past many centuries. There are great views, very good Ayurvedic massages, fascinating cultural walks, and a lot more.

Kathakali Dance. In the early evening your Guide will escort you to a local theatre where you will experience Kerala’s ancient performing art - a Kathakali performance. Kathakali literally means the art of storytelling through dance and it is an ancient forefather of many South Asian dance forms. (Overnight – Brunton Boatyard)

Day 18: Cochin. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)        Overnight – Brunton Boatyard

Fort Kochi Tour. This day will start with a 1-minute walk from your hotel to the trademark of Cochin’s attractions, popular as the Chinese fishing nets. Folklore will have it that these enormous nets (or at least their design) were brought here by famed Chinese explorer Zhang He about 600 years ago. Local fishermen manipulate these massive nets with an ease that comes from centuries of generational experience. Ownership of the net and its prized location is handed down from generation to generation. The lowering and raising of the nets, with the fishermen deftly walking up and down the angled wooden poles and manipulating them in and out of the water with thick, well-worn ropes, has a synchronicity and rhythm that is fascinating to observe.

Historic Walk. Continue exploring more with an 8-to-10-minute walk through historic Fort Kochi’s charming streets and alleys that are surrounded by Portuguese, Dutch and British architecture, and full of chic small cafes, boutique stores, art galleries, and a lot more.

Santa Cruz Basilica and St. Francis Church. Arrive at Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica and experience its impressive collection of colorful artworks. A 5 minute walk from here will bring you to the St. Francis Church, which was established by the Portuguese Franciscan Friars in 1503. This is the first European church built in India, and the famous Portuguese explorer, Vasco Da Gama, the first European to reach India by sea, was buried in its courtyard for a few years before his remains were returned to Portugal.

David Hall. A 2-minute walk will bring you to David Hall, a 17th century historic building that has been painstakingly restored and houses a rotating selection of art exhibits, mainly focusing on young artists. The excellent and popular small café in the building will be your stop for lunch, and you will order ala carte. The food is CGH Earth quality, but here the focus is on casual Indian and western cuisine and drinks, including woodfired thin crust pizza’s prepared in an Indian clay oven – we strongly recommend trying the seafood topped ‘Fort Cochin’ Pizza!

Mattancherry Palace. After lunch a 10-minute drive through Fort Kochi will bring you to the Dutch Palace which was actually built by the Portuguese in 1555 and is famous for its detailed carved wooden murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana and the Puranic legends. Also known as Mattancherry Palace, this is an unattractive squat building that bears no similarity to the opulence of other palaces, or even mansions, in India.

Paradesi Synagogue. Very near the palace is the Jewish Synagogue which was built in 1568 and is still an active house of worship for the few remaining Jews in the area. To get to the synagogue you will walk on Jew Street which runs through Jew Town – ancient street signs still identify these names! Fort Kochi’s ancient and colorful Jew Street now has antique stores and souvenir and art outlets. There was a Jewish presence in Kochi from 70 A.D. and the charming synagogue you will visit once was a busy house of worship for the locals.

Return to your hotel for some relaxation and their wonderful service and facilities, and those who want to enjoy a 15-to-20-minute walk through Kochi’s interesting streets can saunter back with your guide while the rest of the group is driven back.

Farewell Dinner: This evening you will join your fellow group explorers for a very special farewell dinner at your boutique hotel. Menu options will include delicious fresh seafood and a lot more. Since your last evening in India will be spent on houseboats on the backwaters, where all three meals are included, we orchestrate the farewell dinner a night earlier. (Overnight – Brunton Boatyard)

Day 19: Cochin – Backwaters. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)        Overnight – Deluxe Houseboat

Traditional Houseboat on the Backwaters

Backwaters Cruise. You are assisted with check-out from your boutique lodge in the late morning and are driven to the backwaters. Arrive at Alleppey and you are assisted in boarding your 2- or 3-bedroom houseboat. Most descriptions and photographs of the backwaters illustrate the incredible lushness and beauty of the vegetation around the fresh water canals, rivulets and lakes, with the charming water bodies and the abundance of coconut trees and other exotic plants creating a subtropical environment not found elsewhere on this planet. To many of our guests the most charming part of their cruise is the opportunity to be part of a unique way of life that hasn’t changed much for a few centuries, because you are literally seeing life as the locals have lived for a long time in this area.

Riparian Life. Although now there are small dirt and paved roads leading to most homes and other structures, the residents of this area have always depended on the waterways for most of their movement from one place to another, and this practice continues today. What appear as streams to you are their streets and alleys, and much of the time you are cruising through their backyards.

Farming and Fishing on Backwaters, Cochin

Folklore will have it that these enormous nets (or at least their design) were brought here by famed Chinese explorer Zhang He about 600 years ago.

Farming and Fishing. You will witness men, women and adolescents rowing themselves to their destination, children in crisp uniforms being rowed back from school, women doing their laundry and dishes by hand in the fresh water streams, fishermen and produce sellers rowing up to the backdoors of the small homes to sell their wares to housewives, farmers in their water-soaked fields, pier-stations with passengers waiting for the commuter longboats that ply these waters, children swimming and playing in the shallower streams, and a whole lot more. As you take in the amazing cornucopia of visual delights, the cook and other staff make sure that all your needs are taken care of, while serving you with freshly made local cuisine. (Overnight – Deluxe Houseboat)

Day 20: Backwaters Cruise - Delhi. (Breakfast and Lunch)        Overnight - Roseate House Aerocity

Departure Options. Please note that the vast majority of international flights depart from Indian airports either very late at night, or early in the morning. Depending on your international flight reservations, you will be either flying back to Delhi, or flying out from Cochin itself. For those boarding their international flight from Cochin, a nominal flight cost reduction will apply for your tours flight costs.

Vypin Island. Disembark from your houseboat after breakfast and you are driven to Vypin Island, which lies just off the route to Cochin Airport. Arrive and begin your exploration of Cherai Beach, starting with the 19th century Azheekkal Temple. Among other facets, the temple’s Ratha (Chariot) is unique and very impressive. After this you will briefly visit the oldest European structure in India, the Portuguese Fort, which was built in 1503. Another brief stop will be at the Pallipuram Church, completed in 1577 by the Portuguese. There are some interesting artifacts in the church. This exploration is followed by a break for lunch, after which a leisurely walk on Cherai beach will offer both the coastline and colorful fisherman going about a plethora of different activities.

Flight to Delhi. You will depart Vypin Island and head for the Cochin Airport in the mid-afternoon, before rush hour starts causing delays. At Cochin Airport you are assisted with your check-in for your flight to Delhi. Upon arrival at Delhi, you will be driven to your upscale airport hotel, where you will bid farewell to your India Connoisseur Guide. (Overnight - Roseate House Aerocity)

Day 21: Delhi Airport Hotel – International Flight. (Breakfast)

International Flight. Check-out at the appropriate time (your room is available until noon) and a private hotel vehicle will transfer you to the airport where you will board your international flight.

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Easy Tours will not include the charge for your international flights during the Tour Booking Process. Your Initial Deposit, or Full Payment if you are booking a tour that starts within 95 days from the Booking Date, does not include any costs for your international flights . The following facts, terms and conditions apply if you have chosen to book international flights through Easy Tours as part of your tour. Your international flight costs are temporarily guaranteed if you select them when you book your tour. An Easy Tours International Flight Specialist will contact you within 3 business days of your tour booking and verify your passport listed name and birthdate details, as any errors in these will lead to significant change costs for you. They will also provide you with your international flight details. Once this process is complete, you will have 3 business days to opt out of booking your international flights as part of your tour. Your opting out of booking the international flights will not, in any way whatsoever, affect the validity or cancellation terms of the tour that you have already booked. If you do not pay for your international flights within these 3 business days , that will be considered as you opting out of the international flight option . Easy Tours uses group booking rates which can often be higher than advertised airline specials . You are not bound, in any sense of the term, to book your international flights with Easy Tours, nor will you receive any preferential benefits during your tour, except for the arrival and departure airport transfers, for doing so.

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What Your COAP Means & Contains: The term COAP as used by Easy Tours as an abbreviation for Confirmation of Availability Package. This is the unique and secure binding and legal electronic contract between the guest(s) and Easy Tours. A personal link is e-mailed to each guest when they are finalizing their reservation, with a request to save your unique COAP webpage. Among other things, your COAP contains your detailed itinerary, the terms and conditions listed on this document, your balance payment details, a link to an alteration/cancellation form, and a secure payment link for your initial payment. If a tour itinerary is altered, a new revision of your COAP is issued for your acceptance. Until the new revision is accepted, the terms and conditions in the previous COAP remain in effect. Your COAP will be active and available to you until well after your tour is over, and we ask you to save it in your favorites for review at any time you choose. Once a guest electronically accepts their COAP and pays their initial deposit or full payment (if required due to proximity of travel dates), all the terms and conditions listed below apply, and are the sole terms and conditions that the contract between Easy Tours and the Guest will be governed by. Your acceptance of your COAP is your legal, binding, & unconditional acceptance of the preceding statement, both for yourself and on behalf of any and all fellow travelers listed on your COAP. Your Payments are Protected: Easy Tours transfers all guest payments into a trust account with Chase Bank. All guest payments go directly to this account. From there, payments are disbursed to the vendors providing different services during your tour/travel package. Easy Tours Liability Insurance:  We maintain a USD $3,000,000 Professional Liability Policy through Zurich (backed by AIG). Guest Travel Insurance:  We offer a variety of policies (to US residents) from one of the largest Travel Insurers in the United States, Allianz Global Assist, and are on their covered suppliers list, a distinction enjoyed by few companies. Allianz Global Assistance can offer you a variety of coverage options and we can guide you in selecting the plan that is best for you.  Bear in mind that cancellation of a tour requires a large amount of documentation which covers each hotel, flight, and ground service segment of your tour that got canceled. If you purchase insurance through us, we know what Allianz Global Assistance wants, and they are familiar with our documents, thereby saving you time and effort.  As with all types of insurance, terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Easy Tours’ Privacy Policy:  Easy Tours will not share your personal information with any outside person or agency, except for the purpose of (1) making various reservations for your tour; (2) processing your payments through the Banks and Credit Card transaction institutions (all located in the United States) that we deal with. Once every month or two we may send you information on our specials. You will always have the option to stop this whenever you choose. Visa Information:  there is a visa required to enter almost all the destinations we offer. Although Easy Tours’ does its best to provide the most current information on our site and in our correspondence when you book your tour, but we do not guarantee the accuracy of such information and it is solely the traveler’s responsibility to acquire their visa(s). Charges for the Visa or a current passport are not included in quoted tour costs. Your acceptance of your COAP is your legal, binding, & unconditional acceptance of the preceding statement, both for yourself and on behalf of any and all fellow travelers listed on your COAP. Applicable Laws during your travels: While traveling you and all other travelers listed on your COAP are subject to the laws, customs and regulations of the nation that you are visiting, and the relevant local Governments in the areas where these services are rendered. Guest Liabilities & Responsibilities: By accepting your COAP you are guaranteeing that you accept the sole responsibility of the fact that you, and everyone listed as a fellow traveler on your COAP, is in good enough health to participate in the tour/travel package. You also accept that you are aware that the infrastructure and other conditions in many nations are not as advanced as the United States and that you are consciously accepting, for you and everyone listed as a fellow traveler on your COAP, any and all risks associated with traveling in other nations. Facilities for the handicapped can be inadequate in some areas. Your acceptance of your COAP is your legal, binding, & unconditional acceptance of the preceding statement, both for yourself and on behalf of any and all fellow travelers listed on your COAP. International Airline Tickets:  If you arrange your own international air travel, we recommend that you arrive at least a day before your tour begins, and leave at least a day after the tour ends. This protects you in case of flight delays and cancellations and also allows you to spend additional time in your port of embarkation/disembarkation, giving you a chance to absorb the local culture and other attractions without the constraints of a fixed itinerary. We can offer you our pre-negotiated rates on your choice of accommodation for the extra days upon request. Easy Tours does not issue tickets for your international travel before and after your tour, unless the flights are listed on your Easy Tours itinerary and are a part of a multi-nation tour that we are facilitating. For your non-tour international travel, we have the expertise to offer you advice on the best combinations of airlines, travel durations, and values, for the regions we offer, and can introduce you to airfare consolidators who offer discounted pricing on international airfare in First & Business Class. Please note that Easy Tours is only providing advice and, upon a guest’s request, introducing you to international airfare consolidator(s). We accept no responsibility for the actions and inactions of the consolidator(s) or other service providers we refer you to, or for any changes in quality and/or service schedule by the airlines/flights that we recommend. Easy Tours does not accept commissions from airlines or consolidators. It is the guest's responsibility to confirm, pay for, and process all transactions concerning travel to and from your tour destination(s) directly with the service provider. Your acceptance of your COAP is your legal, binding, & unconditional acceptance of the preceding statement, both for yourself and on behalf of any and all fellow travelers listed on your COAP. Easy Tours and its affiliates are not responsible, in any sense of the term, for hardship or loss (financial or otherwise) caused by delays, cancellations, and any changes in the international flight or airline requirements, or by a traveler wanting to change or cancel their international travel and being unable to do so. Neither Easy Tours, nor any of its affiliates, are party to, or responsible for, any and all events or circumstances relating to this travel. Your acceptance of your COAP is your legal, binding, & unconditional acceptance of the preceding statement, both for yourself and on behalf of any and all fellow travelers listed on your COAP. Flight & Hotel Delays and Cancellations:  We strongly recommend that all our guests secure travel insurance for their tour. If your international arrival is delayed, there are no last-minute refunds for missed hotel nights. If you miss any domestic flights due to delays not caused by Easy Tours, the fares we book are nonrefundable. Also, please note that last minute ticket prices are going to be higher. Although Easy Tours only uses our destinations best airlines and makes every effort to use domestic flights that offer back-ups with later flights in case of a cancellation or significant delay, this is not always possible in every itinerary. Hotel nights lost due to domestic travel cancellations have no last-minute refunds for missed hotel nights. Travel insurance to cover such expenses is available and strongly recommended. Tours begin & end on the days specified. Airline & hotel reservations are made well in advance by Easy Tours. Please make sure that you make room for delays, both at the START, and the END of your tour. You can lose out on part, or all, of your tour (depending on how tardy you are). Any guest that is not at their chosen starting point (airport, hotel or similar location) at the scheduled time, is considered a "No Show"*. Your acceptance of your COAP is your legal, binding, & unconditional acceptance of the preceding statement, both for yourself and on behalf of any and all fellow travelers listed on your COAP. Prices:  All rates quoted are per person, based on double occupancy, and in US dollars. If not listed, single supplements are available upon request. All prices, except for booked guests, are subject to change at any time at the sole discretion of Easy Tours. Guest Payments: We require a payment of $1000.00 per person + on-tour flight costs as an initial deposit for most tours. If not listed, single supplements are available upon request in the 'Comments" section in each 'Reservation Inquiry Form'. Secure Card Processing. Our credit card processor, PayPal, uses the highest level of secure processes and servers to process your electronic payments. For online reservations the initial deposit can be made by credit card on the tour page’s reservation form. If you would rather use another form of payment for the initial deposit or any subsequent payment, please call us or use the contact us form. Final Payment. The balance of the cost of your tour is required at least 95 days prior to the start of your tour. Reservations made with less than 95 days remaining will require immediate full payment. Reservations that include any travel dates falling between December 20th and January 5th will require full payment 125 days prior to the start of the tour. Guest Failure to Pay Final Payment On Time: If Easy Tours does not receive, or is unable to process your payment on the contractual due date as outlined in your COAP (contract), we reserve the full right to cancel your reservation and process a refund of your payments after subtracting the agreed upon Cancellation Costs as listed in these Terms and Conditions. Quoted tour costs do not include: Hotel stays before and after your tour, unless specified on your individual itinerary. Those costs can be quoted on request. Small Group Tours include all breakfasts and lunches while touring, and usually a special dinner experience or more. Excess baggage charges are not included unless specified by us – it is the guests’ responsibility to ascertain that their baggage dimensions and weight comply with the airline requirements. Costs of Visas are not included. Cancellations by the Guest Process: Cancellations are processed as detailed below: A request for cancellation will only be valid if it is received through the Alteration/Cancellation Form on our web site. There is a link to the Form this near the top of your COAP (electronic contract). Within 2 business days of receiving your request for cancellation request, Easy Tours will send you a link to your Cancellation Agreement which details the exact amount contractually refundable to you, if any. Once we receive your acceptance of this agreement, Easy Tours will process your refund promptly as described in the  Refund  section in these Terms and Conditions. Cancellation Costs: On-Tour Air Travel Cancellation Costs  Airline tickets purchased by Easy Tours for travel that is part of your tour are partially refundable, and each flight’s refundability varies. Hence, cancellation costs for issued on-tour flights have to be calculated on an individual basis , partially based on when a guest cancels. We strongly recommend travel insurance for your protection. Land Tour Cancellation Costs (On-Tour Flights are nonrefundable) For travel dates not including any date between Dec. 20th – January 5th: (a) Cancellations received by us at least 95 days before your tour originates, are charged the higher amount (per person) out of US $500.00, or 7% of the total Land Cost of your visit + the significant cancellation costs of your on-tour flights. (b) Cancellations received by us between 95 days and 65 days remaining till your visit begins are charged the higher amount (per person) out of US $750.00, or 15% of the total Land Cost of your visit + the significant cancellation costs of your on-tour flights. (c) Cancellations received between 65 days and 35 days remaining till your visit begins are charged 35% of the total Land Cost of your visit + the significant cancellation costs of your on-tour flights. (d) Cancellations received between thirty-five days and seven days remaining till your visit begins, are charged 80% of the total Land Cost of your visit + the significant cancellation costs of your on-tour flights. (e) If less than 7 days remain, a cancellation is considered a "No Show"* and does not qualify for a refund. Land Tour Cancellation Costs for travel dates including any date between Dec. 20th – January 5th: If any of your travel dates fall between December 20th & January 5th, the following cancellations costs apply. In very few instances some lodging providers only offer non-refundable rates during this period. If a hotel has such restrictions, this will be clearly noted on your payment terms before you make a payment, superseding the below terms. (a) Cancellations received by us at least 125 days before your tour originates, are charged the higher amount (per person) out of US $500.00, or 7% of the total Land Cost of your visit + the significant cancellation costs of your on-tour flights. (b) Cancellations received by us at least 95 days before your tour originates, are charged the higher amount (per person) out of US $1000.00, or 25% of the total Land Cost of your visit + the significant cancellation costs of your on-tour flights. (c) Cancellations received by us between 95 days and 65 days remaining till your visit begins are charged 60% of the total Land Cost of your visit + the significant cancellation costs of your on-tour flights. (d) Cancellations received between 65 days and 35 days remaining till your visit begins are charged 80% of the total Land Cost of your visit + the significant cancellation costs of your on-tour flights. (e) If less than 35 days remain, a cancellation is considered a "no show"* and does not qualify for a refund. International Airline Tickets Cancellation & Change Costs: Your flights before and after your tour will incur Cancellation & Change Charges as specified by the Airlines & Consolidators in their direct communications and the travel documents they provide you. Certain airfares cannot be cancelled and are either non-refundable and do not permit any changes, or can be changed with an extra charge. If you asked Easy Tours to refer you to a consolidator or airline, we are in no way involved in any cancellation or change that you or the airlines/consolidators make and will not be involved in refunds or other compensation of any kind for the airline tickets or any other fees tendered to them. Pandemics & Other Similar Circumstances : The Covid-19 pandemic resulted in extremely significant losses to travel companies including Easy Tours. The main reason was the refusal to issue refunds by some hotels and airlines, even though their country was closed. Guests who were affected by such policies understandably feel aggrieved when travel companies pass the non-recoverable costs on to the guest if the guest only wants to cancel. We apologize, but we are unable to refund amounts that we cannot recoup from our suppliers in the case of a pandemic or other similar major disaster. Changes After Reservation : Additions (hotel nights and/or transfer services) to your tour package after your acceptance of the COAP (Confirmation of Availability Package) are done as available by Easy Tours. We ask all guests to consider adding additional night(s) upon arrival, and possibly departure, when reserving their tour. Very infrequently, small changes may be made to your itinerary, which we reserve the right to do so at any time, and we will advise you at the earliest possible date. These changes may be the result of Force Majeure or other similar reasons that are beyond our control, such as weather conditions, delays in departures, strikes or riots, overbookings or closure of a hotel, decisions taken by Tourist Organizations and/or State Governments, etc. This may result in an alteration of the itinerary, omission of a destination, or changing the time spent in a particular destination. Refunds When Guest Cancels:  All payments for transportation, or travel service, not provided to the passenger shall be promptly refunded, in accordance with the agreed-to terms and conditions, unless the passenger otherwise instructs the Easy Tours in writing. If you cancel your tour, or do not make payments as per the agreed upon schedule, Easy Tours shall process your refund (after deducting the agreed upon Cancellation Costs as listed in these Terms and Conditions, in less than 7 business days from the earliest of the following dates: (1) The scheduled date of departure. (2) The day the passenger requests a refund by cancelling as per the policy defined in the cancellation section. Tour Cancellation by Easy Tours & Refunds: In the extremely unlikely event that we are unable to provide the tour package due to force majeure, we will process the refund of all your payments within seven business days from the day that we become aware of this inability. In the event of cancellation due to unforeseeable circumstances beyond Easy Tours’ control (such as a natural disaster), Easy Tours will refund all your money within 14 business days of cancellation, after adjusting for any unrecoverable payments already tendered to our suppliers, for which we will provide you with concrete evidence. Financial Liability of Easy Tours:  Easy Tours Inc.'s liability in any and all cases will be limited to a refund of the payments made directly by you and/or your fellow travelers to us, subject to our cancellation and refund policies. Easy Tours Inc.'s liability in any and all cases will be limited to a refund of the contractually valid part of the payments made directly by you to us, subject to our cancellation and refund policies. Release of Liability Indemnifying Easy Tours: Besides looking after our guests’ comfort and enjoyment, Easy Tours does its best to ensure that you travel, explore, and reside in a safe and risk-free environment. However, Easy Tours is not responsible, in any sense of the term, for the safety, health, and/or condition, of any guest’s person, their wards, or their property. You, on behalf of yourself and each person on your tour as listed in your COAP, expressly acknowledge that you are cognizant of any and all risks that are involved in travel to other nations and the related arrangements for trips of this nature, and fully disclaim, waive and discharge Easy Tours (including its shareholders, management, directors, and employees) from any and all liability, claims. damages, loss, or responsibilities, including damage to or loss of your property, or injury or death to you and/or any and each person on your tour as listed on your COAP, with regard to the proposed tour and/or travel package, and arrangements made with respect thereto, even if caused by the negligence of any airlines, transportation companies, hotels, restaurants, or any other party providing services or accommodations included in the tour/visit. You, on behalf of yourself and each person on your tour as listed in your COAP, also expressly acknowledge and agree with the fact Easy Tours will not be liable for any claims, losses, damages for delayed or lost baggage or other property, or any loss of intangibles such as pleasure, or feelings of disappointment, distress, or frustration, whether mental or physical, which may have resulted from any act or omission of any party, including Easy Tours, providing services to you during your tour and/or travel package. Easy Tours is not responsible for any incidental expenses or consequential losses that you incur as a result of a cancelled booking, including visas, vaccinations, non-refundable flights or rail, nonrefundable car parking or other fees, loss of earnings, or loss of enjoyment. Guaranteed Small Group Departures. A departure date for a Small Group Tour offered by the Easy Tours will become a guaranteed departure when at least one booking secured by a valid deposit has been made on that departure. Easy Tours has No Minimum Group Size Requirements for our Guaranteed Departures. You may be the Only Traveler(s) on your Group Tour Departure Date. Easy Tours does not cancel our guaranteed departures once a booking has been secured and payments made for any Group Departure date. Where a significant element of a Tour as described cannot be provided after the departure date, Easy Tours will make suitable alternative arrangements. *No Show's*:  Are defined in our above terms and do not qualify for any refunds for any part of their tour. Your acceptance of your COAP is your legal, binding, & unconditional acceptance of the preceding statement, both for yourself and on behalf of any and all fellow travelers listed on your COAP. Site Content:  The descriptions and views expressed on this web site are based on the knowledge and opinions of the management of Easy Tours. There is no guarantee of accuracy, implied or otherwise, in these descriptions and views.

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India Local Tours

Hire The Finest Tour Guides & Tour Directors in India

• Posted 8 months ago

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Are you planning a trip to India and looking for a reliable and knowledgeable tour guide to accompany you? Look no further than India Local Tours! We are a leading tour agency in India, offering a wide range of tours and services, including the option to hire a private tour guide.

When it comes to exploring a new country, having a local guide by your side can make all the difference. Our team of government-approved licensed guides are well-versed in the history, culture, and hidden gems of all major tourist cities in India. From the bustling streets of Delhi to the serene backwaters of Kerala, our guides can enhance your travel experience with their expertise and insider knowledge.

At India Local Tours, we take pride in our diverse panel of guides who specialize in different aspects of travel. Whether you’re interested in art and history, wildlife, adventure, or culinary experiences, we have the perfect guide for you. Our panel ranges from Curator Walk leaders to Tour Directors, VIP tour guides, and Food Tour Specialists. Each guide has a minimum of 2-25 years of experience, ensuring you receive the highest quality of service.

How much does it cost to hire a Tour Guide in India?

Cost to hire a Tour Guide in India varies from city to cities. However, the typical cost to hire a local guide for a half-day tour ranges from INR 1500 to 2500, and for a full-day tour, it ranges from INR 2500 to 4000. However, the cost can go up to INR 8000-10000 (USD 100-130) per day for The Experienced Tour Directors and Celebrity/VIP Guides.

Note: These are the official rates agreed between the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) & Tourist Guide Federation of India (TGFI).

It may also concern you about how come the other online tour selling companies like GetYourGuide and Viator and TripAdvisor are selling the trips at cheaper price. Well in our experience we found that either their suppliers are using unofficial guides OR these suppliers are underpaying their guides & drivers.

Type of Tour Guides to Available to hire in India

When exploring the diverse and culturally rich country of India, having a knowledgeable and experienced tour guide can elevate your travel experience to new heights. Whether you are traveling with family, in a group, or as a solo female traveler, hiring a tour guide in India can ensure that you make the most of your trip. In this article, we will explore the different types of tour guides available, catering to various preferences and needs.

Private Local Tour Guides:

For families and individual travelers, private local tour guides are the ideal choice. These guides possess extensive knowledge about the cities, including the best places to eat, shop, and explore. You can rely on their expertise to create an itinerary that suits your interests, allowing you to experience the authentic essence of India.

Tour Directors/Leaders:

Perfect for small to large groups, tour directors or leaders are your go-to guides for a seamless journey from your arrival to your departure. With comprehensive knowledge about Indian culture, heritage, architecture, and the economy, these tour guides are essentially a one-person show, ensuring that every aspect of your trip is taken care of. We suggest you to book Tour Directors/Leaders in advance as they are high in demand.

VIP/Celebrity Tour Guides

These guides have extensive experience leading tours for high-profile individuals, including world leaders, celebrities, and diplomats. Their knowledge and expertise are unparalleled, and they can provide you with a truly unique and exclusive experience. From arranging private access to restricted sites to ensuring personalized service, VIP tour guides are dedicated to ensuring your trip is unforgettable. Such experienced guides are very few in numbers and works exclusively. Get in touch with us to book your tour for seamless experience.

Multi-Linguistic Tour Guides & Tour Leaders:

If you prefer having a guide who speaks your language, India provides an option for multi-linguistic tour guides. With proficiency in languages like German, French, Italian, Portuguese, Chinese, Korean, and Arabic, these guides ensure clear communication and a deeper understanding of the Indian culture and sites for travelers from around the world. Multi-Linguistic Guides are widely available for most of the European languages however booking them in advance is suggested as during the Peak Season it can be tricky to find them.

Female Tour Guides:

For solo female travelers or small groups of women, having a female tour guide can provide an extra level of comfort and safety. Our panel of amazing local female guides is passionate about delivering attention to detail and creating the best possible experiences for female travelers. Explore India’s wonders while feeling empowered and secure. Female travel guides are your true companion in India whether you are visiting historical sites, finding the best spots to eat or going on a Shopping Spree to the bustling bazaars in India.

Food Tour Specialists

If you’re a foodie seeking to indulge in the vibrant and diverse gastronomy of India, hiring a food tour specialist is the way to go. These guides have an inherent passion for local cuisine and are well-versed in navigating the food scene in their respective cities. They know the hidden food gems that may not be mentioned in guidebooks and can lead you to the best street food stalls, family-run eateries, and traditional restaurants. Whether it’s sampling delectable delicacies like butter chicken in Delhi or savoring the aromatic spices of biryani in Hyderabad, a food tour specialist will ensure you embark on a gastronomic adventure like no other.

Walking Tour Specialists

For those who enjoy exploring on foot and prefer delving into the heart of a city or neighborhood, hiring a walking tour specialist is the perfect choice. These guides possess an intimate knowledge of their surroundings, knowing every nook and cranny, and are skilled at showcasing hidden treasures and sharing fascinating stories that you won’t typically find in guidebooks. By choosing a walking tour specialist, you can expect an immersive and off-the-beaten-path experience, discovering the true essence of a place through its architecture, local markets, street art, and more.

Special Interest Tour Guide/Leaders

 These tour guides cater to specific interests and offer niche tours. Whether you are passionate about yoga, culture and heritage, architecture, art & craft of India, you can find a tour guide who specializes in your area of interest. These guides have in-depth knowledge and can provide you with a unique and personalized experience based on your preferences.

Adventure/Trekking/Wildlife Guides/Naturalists

India offers breathtaking landscapes and adventurous trails, making it a preferred destination for adventure enthusiasts. If you plan to embark on a trekking or adventure trip, hiring an adventure and trekking guide can enhance your experience. These guides are experienced in navigating the terrain, ensuring your safety, and providing you with insights about the local flora, fauna, and culture.

If you wish to explore the wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, and tiger reserves, hiring a wildlife guide is highly recommended. These experts can help you spot the elusive animals, identify bird species, and provide you with in-depth knowledge about India’s unique biodiversity.

Book Your Private Tour Guide Now

It is important to communicate your preferences, interests, and expectations to your tour guide before finalizing the arrangements. This will enable them to customize the itinerary and provide you with a memorable and fulfilling experience. Hiring a private tour guide in India offers you flexibility, personalized attention, and the opportunity to explore the country at your own pace.

Still have some questions and doubt about hiring a guide in India? Get in touch with us on Whatsapp here or email us at [email protected]

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13 Best India Travel Guide Books

• Travel Gear
• 13 Best India Travel Guide…

India is a vast country with diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes. From sandy shores of the Keralan coast, barren deserts of Rajasthan, the majestic snow-capped Himalayas, ancient temples, to buzzing modern cities, the country has it all. The stunning country also offers a rich mix of traditions, festivals, and spiritual beliefs. All these reasons make India a must-visit! For a memorable trip to India, what’s a better way to understand and learn more about the country than by getting yourself “lost” in the best India travel guide books? These guidebooks are more than helpful in planning your trip. Whatever you want to explore in this ancient country, these travel guide books India will help you make the most of your time in this exotic part of the world.

How To Choose The Best India Travel Guide Books?

Travel guidelines to India are all you need to arrange the perfect trip to India . With travel guidebooks, it’s easier to travel safely. That said, choosing travel guide books India also can be overwhelming. To get the best one, there are some basic things that you can consider before deciding to buy a travel guide book India. Let’s take a look at them one by one!

What’s Included In The Book

A travel guidebook to India should contain information about sights, accommodation, transportation, activities, and restaurants. Detailed maps and historical cultural information also make a good guidebook. Some India travel guide books even include phrases and glossary to help you interact with the locals. Colorful photos in the book would be a great feature for travelers’ inspiration.

Published Date

To avoid misinformation about the places you’re going to visit, we recommend getting the latest edition which published date is no later than a year apart. Hotels, restaurants, sights, and shops are ever-changing, so it’s important to get the updated information.

While traveling, you may not want to be weighed down by a thick travel guide book India. If so, a digital version is the best option for you. Meanwhile, some travelers may want to have a printed edition. This version can be useful along the way, such as for taking notes or using the maps without the need for GPS or gadgets.

Is India easy to travel around?

Well, since India is a huge country, getting around can be slow and require a bit of patience. However, it also offers extensive interesting and fascinating places. You’ll never get bored of traveling in India. If anything, your trip may turn into a fascinating adventure!

Is India dangerous for tourists?

You may have heard infamous rumors about India, but generally, India is considered a safe destination for tourists. That said, you should be aware of certain things like scams and pickpockets. So, don’t forget to bring your underclothing travel pouch for safety. Reading travel guidelines to India before you go, like The Essential Safety & Security Guide to Visiting India and Travel Fearlessly in India is also useful. These books provide useful tips, advice, and strategies on how to travel safely in India.

Is India expensive to visit?

Actually, India is commonly known as one of the best budget destinations for travelers in the world. You’ll find plenty of budget hotels and affordable transportation to get around. It’s a perfect destination for budget travelers.

Essential India Travel Guide

Essential India Travel Guide is

written by Mohan Kapoor. He’s a native Indian who was born in Bikaner, Rajasthan. When he was young, he left the country. But, he returned to India for work. His jobs required him to travel extensively through India. So, he shares his knowledge about the country, life, historical sights, and culture into a useful travel guide. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to travel to India.

Unlike other India travel guide books we have on this list, this book only covers cities and states with the most popular and important tourist attractions. But you’ll get an in-depth look and some fun facts of each city. It includes where to eat, what to see, where to go, and what to expect. It also gives you information about how to be respectful to each of the six main religions,, plus, how to be aware of the pickpockets, and more.

The thing we like the most about this book is that the author provides essential tips. These include what to expect, what type of travel agencies you can trust, important cultural aspects, what food choices are safe, and so much more. Plus, he also shares his own story. In a way, by reading this book you travel virtually to cities and states like Delhi, Goa, and Kolkata even before you arrive in the beautiful and colorful country!

Any type of travelers, including business travelers, backpackers, and party-goers.

The Essential Safety & Security Guide to Visiting India

Are you a solo traveler who yearns to travel to India, but has been disheartened by rumors or publicity about violence there? The Essential Safety & Security Guide to Visiting India will show you how to have a happy and safe trip. So, you’ll know how to survive and enjoy your stay in the great land of India. The author is a native-born Indian diplomat with extensive experience and knowledge of his native country.

The book contains general information, like geography and weather. Before you go, some chapters will help you prepare. Getting started, financial planning , and before you travel are some of them. Information about health, insurance, and getting local connections are also provided. Besides, it covers insightful cultural and historical narratives. You’ll find all this info in the chapter: An Introduction to India .

The author talks about safety and security during your time in India. He guides you on how to act, what to do, and how to handle unique situations to make sure you enjoy your stay. You’ll figure out how to travel safely within India by air and train. He also gives tips on how to obtain travel passage to restricted or protected regions. What’s more, there’s a piece of specific advice for female travelers, making it the best travel guide books India for female travelers.

Backpackers, adventurers, female travelers, and solo travelers.

India – Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture

Whether you’re traveling for work or planning a long-term trip to India, you’ll need travel guidelines to India. It will help you to understand the local culture. India – Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture is indeed a useful book. It helps you to learn important stuff about the country, whether it’s land and people, customs and traditions, or values and attitudes. Also, there are some tips on dos and don’ts and taboos. You’ll even get info about business in India!

This travel guide book India is written by Becky Stephen. She enjoys traveling and learning about cultures. Also, she studied Hindi at Banaras Hindu University and lived in Varanasi for years. The author shares her meaningful experience through a better understanding of the local culture. With this book, you’ll be aware of the essential values and behavioral norms, plus knowing how to make new friends and build relationships with the locals.

The book starts with the introduction and key facts about India. Meanwhile, the Land and People chapter contains several topics. These include a brief history of India, as well as its geography and climate. You’ll also find some information about places to eat, shops, and cultural activities. Besides, there’s a section for top places to visit and a map of India.

Long-term travelers, temporary residents, and business travelers.

Lonely Planet South India & Kerala (Regional Guide)

You’ll love Lonely Planet South India & Kerala . It’s perfect as your travel guidelines to India when visiting that particular region. The information on history and culture is very informative. Plus, there’s up-to-date advice on what to see and what not to see. So, you can discover both popular and off-beaten-path experiences. This makes the book the most comprehensive guide to South India and Kerala. It covers Goa, Kerala, Mumbai, Andaman Islands, Bengaluru, and more.

The authors have also packed the book with sights and experiences. It includes South India & Kerala’s Top 12. With this one of the best travel guide books India, you can choose activities that suit you. Do you prefer relaxing on a yoga retreat by the beach in Goa ? Or, floating along Kerala’s backwaters? This book has it covered. Meanwhile, the itineraries section helps customize your trip to your interests.

Get information on recommended accommodation, like hotels in Mumbai , and also places to eat, drinking & nightlife, entertainment, and shopping. There’s a section about how to travel with children for your next family trip. It gives you info about customs regulations, embassies, and consulates. Plus, full-color maps and images are also provided.

Family travelers, solo travelers, backpackers, business travelers, and long-term travelers.

Insight Guides India

You need to plan your trip to experience the best of India. Both paperback or digital editions of Insight Guide India can help you on your next adventure. It’s one of the best travel guide books India for travelers looking for a cultural experience. The book is written by local authors who have extensive historical and cultural backgrounds. Besides, they provide hundreds of stunning photos that capture the essence of India. Not to forget the detailed maps!

There’s a section that features India’s Top 10 Attractions. Also, it covers several regions, from Delhi in the north, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Goa, to Kerala. The information on independence, art, and architecture let you know more about the country.

You’ll find the editor’s choice for the most memorable India experiences. From seeing Hindu festivals, tasting the Indian food, to visiting Rajasthan fort. What’s more, the book includes practical information and travel tips. You’ll find about when to go and transportation. Moreover, this user-friendly travel guide book India provides invaluable maps. So, you could venture off the beaten track.

Any type of travelers, from backpackers, adventurers, business travelers, to photographers.

DK Eyewitness Delhi, Agra and Jaipur

Are you traveling to India for the first time or relocating temporarily to the capital city Delhi? Gear up with some information about the Golden Triangle for your adventures. It includes Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, India’s most visited cities. These cities are famed for their iconic monuments and frenetic energy. Also, these regions have much to offer, including plenty of things to do in Jaipur .

For all those reasons, DK Eyewitness Delhi, Agra and Jaipur can be your best India travel guide books. Unlike most travel guide books, it’s lightweight. So, you can take it wherever you go on your trip. Also, the book is available on Kindle. The information from the book makes traveling across the three cities easy.  Whether you want to glimpse the pretty pink Hawa Mahal or get the perfect shot of the Taj Mahal, the book includes all. Not only you’ll discover reasons to love Delhi , Agra, and Jaipur, but the book also makes you know about the cities.

Like other DK Eyewitness travel guide books India, this book comes with trademark illustrations. Besides, the book provides the best places to eat, drink, and shop. Recommended accommodation is also provided. Meanwhile, the selection of itineraries allows you to make your own. What’s more, get expert advice on how to stay safe, get around, and get ready. Like all DK Eyewitness guide, the book has plenty of beautiful pictures and diagrams. Plus, it includes detailed maps and a pull-out map of Delhi.

Long-term travelers, business travelers, backpackers, and adventurers.

Travel Fearlessly in India: What Every Woman Should Know About Personal Safety

Women who are traveling to India should have the best India travel guide books. Travel Fearlessly in India written by J D Viharini is important for your first or fifth trip to the beautiful country. The author is an American woman who has made India her home. She has traveled across India since 1980, mostly alone. From the tropical south to the remote Himalayas, visit ancient temples, and attend great festivals.

With her 30 years of familiarity with India, she shares important things in travel guidelines to India. She includes the issues ladies may come across in the country. Here, you’ll find out about the mindset of Indian men and how to have safe interactions with them. She also talks about how to understand the Indian perspective on non-Indian women.

The book gives uncommon sights into how to travel and live safely in India. These include cultural factors relating to women’s safety. You’ll find comprehensive information like finding safe places to stay and how to travel safely; how to deal with potential problems and what you need to do if you have to go to the police are also provided. Her many years’ experiences make the book a great read for every female traveler before traveling to India.

Female travelers, solo travelers, and family.

Chennai & Tamil Nadu Focus Guide, 2nd Edition

Looking for specific India travel guide books to Chennai and Tamil Nadu area may be a bit difficult. That’s why the second edition of the Chennai & Tamil Nadu Focus Guide is very useful for your next trip. The book provides you with the insightful and up-to-date information you need. Are you planning to visit and explore many grand Hindu temples? Maybe you want to stop and savor the smell of jasmine garlands piled up before the carved granite gods? The book covers them all.

Also, you don’t want to miss enjoying nature in the blue Nilgiri Mountains. The book also includes information on the region’s unique history, culture, and cuisine for a richer experience along the way. Another section features practical tips on getting there and around.

Besides, you’ll get recommended and comprehensive listings of hotels, a list of restaurants and activities, including horse riding and festivals. This travel guide book India is only available in a printed edition but is slim enough to fit in your pocket. It helps you get the most out of Tamil Nadu without weighing you down. What’s more, the book provides detailed street maps for important towns and cities.

Photographers, long-term travelers, temporary residents, and backpackers.

Bradt Travel Guide: Ladakh, Jammu & the Kashmir Valley

Having the right travel guide books India is essential for the best adventures in Ladakh, Jammu, and Kashmir. Bradt Travel Guide Ladakh, Jammu & the Kashmir Valley can be your best option. Though Ladakh is becoming a more popular destination for its epic Himalayan beauty, some other areas are still off the beaten path, like Kashmir Valley & Jammu, plus Zanskar. There are so many wonders to be discovered and so many  things to do in Ladakh . So, this book is essential for travel guide book India for that specific region.

This fully updated edition helps you explore the whole area. These include Leh, Srinagar, Gulmarg, Zanskar, The Kashmir Valley, and Jammu amongst others. There are plenty of activities you can do. You may want to relax on a houseboat or take a shikara ride in Srinagar. How about exploring Buddhist culture in Ladakhi monasteries? Or, traveling in a jeep along nerve-wracking mountains roads become your choice? You can also enjoy the views from the roof of the world at the breathless Khardung La mountain pass. For adventurers, you don’t want to miss hiking to the Himalayan!

From the book, you’ll find information about these regions. Plus, trekking information, trekking maps, and new travel routes. Other highlights, like the Mughal Road, the Buddhist monks at Thiksey Monastery, and the Buddhas of Kargil are included. Also, we love the color photographs and maps. On top of that, there are Urdu and Ladakhi phrases. Get this one of the best India travel guide books in paperback or Kindle edition.

Adventurers, backpackers, climbers, hikers, and trekkers.

The Rough Guide to India

Make the most of your traveling with The Rough Guide to India ! Whether you’re visiting the world’s greatest building Taj Mahal or visiting the dramatic landscape of home to glaciers in Sikkim, it has it all. Also, the book provides very detailed and extensive information. It makes the book a perfect travel guide book India, especially if you’re preparing for the first trip to India and traveling on a budget.

The book may be a bit thick, but the e-book included is a brilliant bonus. Plus, it’s easy to use. These travel guidelines to India cover India’s cities and states north, south, and east. These include Uttar Pradesh, The Andaman Islands, Gujarat, Punjab and Haryana, and more. From this book, you’ll find extensive listings of the best sights and top experiences.

Also, you can get practical advice about what to see and do. The essential pre-departure information is also provided. It includes getting around, food and drink, and accommodation. You’ll also get info about festivals, culture and etiquette, and more. The itinerary section helps you prepare your own routes, from popular tourist areas to off-the-beaten-track adventures. Besides, there’s a section that provides history, ethnic groups, religion, and wildlife. You’ll love the amazing full-color photography and practical full-color maps.

Backpackers, adventurers, and temporary travelers living in India.

Fodor’s Essential India

Get Fodor’s Essential India as your travel guide books India. It helps you plan the perfect adventure in India to be a trip of a lifetime. This guidebook is written by local writers and expert travel advisors who know the destinations better than anyone else. It’s perfect for travelers who want to travel in India but feel intimidated by the vastness of India. The travel guidelines to India are available in Kindle for a guidebook on the go. Meanwhile, the paperback is small enough to fit in your handbag and backpack.

The book starts with Experience India. This section provides the ultimate experiences you should try in India . Is it taking a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges or entering through the world’s largest door at Fatehpur Sikri? Maybe you want to wander the sprawling City Palace in Udaipur and party the night away at Goa? Meanwhile, you can have an overview of what to expect and where to go in the Travel Smart India section. It helps you with what you need to know before visit India. Also, it includes getting here and around and sample itineraries. Plus, you’ll get an explanation about history, culture, and travel tips.

This guidebook provides up-to-date coverage. From the capital city Delhi, home to Mother House Kolkata, to a financial center Mumbai . It also covers the largest Indian states Rajasthan and the coastlines of Kerala and Goa. It also includes information for side trips from Delhi. Each major city features planning, where to stay, what to do, etc. What’s more, the book provides lots of maps and illustrations to help maximize your time.

Adventurers, backpackers, photographers, and family.

Lonely Planet India

If you’re traveling to India quite often, Lonely Planet India is worth owning. It contains a lot of information about many corners of the country. Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Darjeeling, Chennai, are among them. Plus, it provides full-color maps and images. So, the book is perfect for a quick skimming before you do detailed planning and begin your journey in India. Do you want to listen to monks chanting in the shadow of the mighty Himalaya in Ladakh? Or, visiting top attractions in Agra , like the Taj Mahal? It has you covered!

The book may a little be thick, but it provides 4-easy use sections. So, you’ll find the most relevant and up-to-date advice and recommendations easily. It contains three main chapters: Plan Your Trip, On the Road, Understand, and Survival Guide. The Plan Your Trip is your planning tool kit to create the perfect trip. It provides useful information. From what you need to know, suggested itineraries, how to travel with children, to regions at a glance.

The book covers plenty of places in the country. You’ll find Agra, Goa, Bangalore, Tamil Nadu, Hyderabad, Kerala, in the On the Road section. Plus, you’ll find expert reviews, insider tips, and easy-to-use maps. Get recommended accommodation, restaurants, and shops with honest reviews. Also, there’s a special section about tips for women and solo travelers, plus scams. What’s more, you’ll find information about transportation and cultural insights. It helps you get a more rewarding travel experience.

Family travelers, business travelers, adventurers, and backpackers.

DK Eyewitness India

DK Eyewitness India can be your right choice for India travel guide books. It’s filled with information. Either you choose the printed edition or e-book, you can take this guidebook wherever you go. The design will make the most of your travels to discover and experience India. Also, the book has several main sections, including Discover India. This section is divided into some parts: Welcome, Reasons to Love India, and Exploring/getting to know India. Itineraries/India your way, and the Indian year and a Brief History.

The introduction gives an overview of India as a country. Its history, food, culture, nature, architectures are amongst others. Meanwhile, the section Experience India features cities, states, and unions. Also, this travel guide book India includes highlights of what you could experience. It’s whether you prefer to drink tea in Darjeeling or visit the unmissable Taj Mahal. Perhaps you want to escape to the beautiful Andaman Islands or hike the heights of the Himalayas?

You’ll also find 22 sightseeing areas, which contains some information. These include addresses, phone numbers, websites, and opening times. Stuck for inspiration for your schedules while in India? Worry not! There are recommended easy-to-follow itineraries. So, you could set up your plan, whether you’re staying for just a few days or few weeks. Also, there is info about the best places to eat, sleep, and transport information. Even before you’re arriving in India, you can imagine yourself there through its colorful maps and amazing pictures. What’s more, you’ll get expert advice on how to get ready and stay safe.

Backpackers, adventurers, and temporary business travelers.

Author:  John P

As a blogger, I have had the pleasure of exploring some of the most exclusive destinations, indulging in the finest cuisine, accommodations, and experiences that the world has to offer. From the chic streets Paris to the scenic beauty of the Amalfi Coast, readers luxury. my, tips on the most exclusive hotels restaurants, and activities, giving you a glimpse into the world of high-end travel. But luxury travel is not just about extravagance - it's also about immersing yourself in the local culture and experiencing the true essence of a destination. With a passion for art, history, and architecture, I seek out the hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences that make each destination truly unique. So whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, my blog is your guide to the ultimate European luxury travel experience. Join me on my journey as we explore the best that Europe has to offer, one luxurious destination at a time.

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When is the best time to visit India? Here’s your season-by-season guide

With its festivals of light and color, fragrant spices, and dreamy architecture, India will sweep you into its spirited embrace. Join one of our India tours to observe sacred ceremonies on the banks of the Ganges, soar over the Pink City in a hot-air balloon, and search for tigers—and leave with a new worldview and a full heart. Read on to find our season-by-season guide to traveling to India, one of our favorite tour destinations.

Go for kaleidoscopic revelry and tiger spotting

Early spring, in particular, is the best time to visit India if you want to immerse all of your senses in the joy of discovery. Join us on a springtime tour of India to welcome spring at a Holi festival, seek out the evasive Bengal tiger on a game drive, and explore the country’s gardens and cities before the summer heat sets in.

Months to experience spring in India:

March, April, and May

Spring events and things to do in India:

• Experience the technicolor joy of Holi. While there isn’t one best month to visit India, March can feel tough to beat. The dawn of spring is celebrated each year with Holi, the Festival of Colors—one of the most vivid world festivals to welcome spring . Celebrants take to the streets and douse each other in brightly colored powders and water in a joyful and vibrant display that dates back to at least the fourth century. We’re working to add more tours of India that visit during this colorful festival, so keep an eye out. (Just be sure to pack clothes you don’t mind getting color-drenched!)
• Spot the elusive Bengal tiger. India is one of our top destinations for responsible wildlife experiences . Although you can join us on a game drive regardless of when you book your tour, spring tends to be the best time to travel to India to see tigers. The warmer, dry weather draws them to watering holes, and it’s not yet so hot that they remain hidden during the day. Whether you visit Ranthambore National Park, one of the world’s top national parks , on our India: Delhi, Agra & Jaipur tour or the Panna Tiger Reserve on our new Highlights of Northern India: Delhi, Varanasi & Agra tour , you might increase your odds of spotting the majestic cats when you visit India in the spring.

The best places to visit in India in the spring:

• Any of the country’s flourishing gardens. There’s no bad time to visit India’s crown jewel, the Taj Mahal, but if you want to see its magical gardens in full bloom, join one of our tours of India in the spring. North of the famous ivory mausoleum lies the Mehtab Bagh, or Moonlight Garden. On moonlit nights, the water in the garden reflects the Taj Mahal in all its ethereal glory. If you can’t get enough of India’s fragrant blossoms, join us on our brand-new South India & Sri Lanka: Game Drives, Temples & Tropical Coasts tour to explore the exquisite gardens and fountains of the rainbow-colored Meenakshi Temple. Then, head to Madurai’s flower market to indulge in its vibrant colors and perfumed air.
• Jaipur… from above. The sunrise in the Pink City of Jaipur will take your breath away no matter where you’re standing, but we can’t think of a better way to view it than from the basket of a hot-air balloon. Embark on the Jaipur Hot-Air Balloon Ride excursion offered on our new Highlights of India & Nepal: Delhi, Agra & Kathmandu tour and India’s Royal Rajasthan: Udaipur, Jaipur & Agra tour to soar above the city and watch it awaken from a new perspective. The mild weather, clear skies, and blooming landscapes make spring an especially charming time to take flight.

Weather in India in the spring:

Spring in India starts off mild but can get quite hot and humid by May as monsoon season approaches. Temperatures drop as low as 50 F in northern India and can soar as high as 95 F in the north.

Go for glowing lights and fragrant spices

The post-monsoon season ushers in cooler temperatures, drier weather, and even more festivities. Autumn in India is mild and comfortable, with Diwali celebrations and the spice harvest infusing any trip to India with intoxicating magic.

Months to experience autumn in India:

September, October, and November

Autumn events and things to do in India:

• Celebrate Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. “Over two years ago, my husband expressed the dream of seeing the Taj Mahal for his next ‘decade birthday,’” said traveler Davara, who joined our India: Delhi, Agra & Jaipur tour . “Our tour took place at the time of the Diwali festival, the biggest and most important holiday of the year. We enjoyed the vividly colorful garlands, the strings of blinking lights, the tractors and trucks that had been washed and decorated, examples of Rangoli floor decorations, and viewing the sale of sweets, figurines, marigolds, lamps, and other holiday-related items.” Autumn is the best time to travel to India to experience the luminous cheer of Diwali, a five-day-long festival marked by feasts, fireworks, and millions of welcoming lights. Hop on the October 12, 2025, departure of our new Highlights of Northern India: Delhi, Varanasi & Agra tour to join the celebration!
• See the spice harvest. Join us on our South India & Sri Lanka: Game Drives, Temples & Tropical Coasts tour to visit the spice plantations surrounding Periyar National Park—a renowned wildlife sanctuary you’ll also visit. Here, you’ll see how the many tantalizing spices of southern India are cultivated and learn about how they’re the backbone of Indian cuisine. “I found some of the best and most interesting food I tasted in India while in the southern state of Kerala,” said staffer Lael. “With the variety of spices grown locally— cardamom, ginger, cassia, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, pepper, tamarind, curry leaf, and vanilla, to name a few—southern Indian food is very spicy and flavorful.” Autumn is the best time to visit India to see staples like cloves and cardamom being harvested.

The best places to visit in India in the autumn:

• The Kerala Backwaters. The serene beauty of Kerala’s backwaters is worth experiencing no matter the time of year, but the area is particularly lovely in the post-monsoon season when the waters are high and the vegetation is lush. Join our India: Delhi, Agra & Jaipur tour , our South India & Sri Lanka: Game Drives, Temples & Tropical Coasts tour , or add the Kerala extension to our India’s Royal Rajasthan: Udaipur, Jaipur & Agra tour to spend a night on a houseboat . Slow down as you wind your way through Kerala’s peaceful waters, enjoying local cuisine, fishing, or relaxing on the deck of the boat.
• The Ganges River. Just like there isn’t one best time to go to India, there’s no best time to see the Ganges, but we do think the pleasant temperatures and mild weather make autumn a uniquely appealing time to visit India’s sacred river. Join us on our Highlights of Northern India: Delhi, Varanasi & Agra tour to experience one of our favorite things to do in India, the Ganga Aarti. This daily ceremony takes place on the ghats, the bathing steps along the river banks, and is dedicated to Ganga, the river goddess. At dusk, locals gather by lamplight to chant, ring bells, and float candle-lit flower baskets down the river as an offering to the goddess. Want to experience a different side of the Ganges? Autumn is a fantastic time to board a boat and sail up the river, visiting sites like the holy city of Varanasi along the shore.

Weather in India in the autumn:

Temperatures in India begin to gradually decrease as the monsoon season ends, with lows ranging from 55-77 F, depending on the region, and highs in the low-80s to mid-90s.

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Go for mild weather and luminous sunsets.

Some of the best places to visit in India in December through February are places where the weather can get stifling in warmer months. Take advantage of cooler weather by heading to southern India and exploring sunny cities and seaside towns. “We went in January, and the weather was perfect up north and in the low 90s around Cochin,” said traveler Jim, who joined our India: Delhi, Agra & Jaipur tour .

Months to experience winter in India:

December, January, and February

Winter events and things to do in India:

• Honor Gandhi’s memory. Visit Raj Ghat, Delhi’s tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, on one of our India tours to see the eternal flame and black marble pedestal that stand on the site of the nonviolent activist’s cremation. Special commemorative prayers are held to mark his birth and death days on October 2 and January 30, respectively.
• Take a sunset cruise around Lake Pichola. Winter’s clear, dry skies make it the best time to visit India for a golden-hour cruise around Udaipur’s Lake Pichola. When you join us on our India’s Royal Rajasthan: Udaipur, Jaipur & Agra tour in winter, you’ll have clear visibility as you sail across the man-made lake. The sun’s low angle this time of year creates spectacular sunsets, bathing the palaces and temples on Pichola’s shores in a radiant glow.

The best places to visit in India in the winter:

• The Elephanta Caves. Explore the labyrinth of cave temples on Elephanta Island, also known as Gharapuri, when you join the Mumbai extension of our Highlights of Northern India: Delhi, Varanasi & Agra tour . Wandering through the island’s fruit tree forest and cave complex is among the best things to do in Mumbai . The island’s temples and soaring Shiva carvings date back to as early as the 5th century.
• Puducherry. Until 1954, the quaint seaside town of Puducherry was a French colonial settlement, as evidenced by its architecture and culture today. Explore the town’s dreamy streets and sherbet-colored buildings, then enjoy fresh seafood and French-influenced cuisine beachside when you visit on our South India & Sri Lanka: Game Drives, Temples & Tropical Coasts tour .

Weather in India in the winter:

While lows can drop to freezing in the Himalayan region, much of India sees lows between 45-60 F and highs between 56-85 F in the winter. You should expect cooler temperatures in the north and along the coast, with warmer weather in the southernmost parts of the country. “We were surprised at the coolness in the north in January and should have packed warmer clothes, especially for the tiger sighting in Ranthambore,” said traveler Sandra after joining our India: Delhi, Agra & Jaipur tour .

The best time to travel to India is as soon as you’re ready! Find your perfect India tour today.

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Exploring the Best Places to Visit in India: A Guide for Travelers

India, a land of diverse cultures, rich history, and stunning landscapes, offers an unparalleled travel experience for adventurers seeking an unforgettable journey. From the majestic Himalayas to the serene backwaters of Kerala, India beckons travelers from around the world with its myriad of attractions. For Australian travelers planning their next adventure, exploring the best places to visit in India promises an immersive cultural experience like no other.

India's vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery make it a top destination for travelers seeking to explore new horizons. From the bustling streets of Delhi to the tranquil beaches of Goa, there's something for everyone in this diverse and enchanting country. Whether you're an avid history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a food lover, India has countless treasures waiting to be discovered. So, let’s unravel the beauty of India!

1. Taj Mahal

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One of the best places to visit in India is the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. This magnificent marble mausoleum, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Its timeless beauty and intricate architecture attract millions of visitors each year, making it a must-see destination for travelers to India.

Another must-visit destination in India is the vibrant city of Jaipur, also known as the Pink City. Renowned for its stunning palaces, majestic forts, and vibrant bazaars, Jaipur offers a glimpse into Rajasthan's rich history and culture. Explore the magnificent Amber Fort, stroll through the bustling streets of the old city, and shop for colorful textiles and handicrafts at the local markets.

For nature lovers, the picturesque hill station of Manali in Himachal Pradesh is a paradise on earth. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and gushing rivers, Manali offers a tranquil retreat amidst nature's splendor. Whether you're trekking in the Himalayas, paragliding over the valleys, or simply unwinding amidst the serene landscapes, Manali is the perfect destination for a rejuvenating getaway.

4. Varanasi

No visit to India would be complete without experiencing the cultural extravaganza of Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India. Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges River, Varanasi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a pilgrimage site for Hindus. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, take a boat ride along the ghats, and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of this ancient city.

Kerala, often referred to as "God's Own Country," is a serene paradise nestled in the southwestern coast of India. Tourists flock to Kerala for its lush greenery, tranquil backwaters, and pristine beaches. Visitors can embark on a leisurely houseboat cruise through the scenic backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarakom, witnessing the picturesque landscapes dotted with coconut palms and traditional villages along the way.

Adventure seekers can trek through the dense forests of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse wildlife including elephants, tigers, and exotic bird species.

For those seeking relaxation, Kerala's tranquil beaches such as Kovalam and Varkala offer the perfect setting to unwind amidst golden sands and azure waters.

Ayurvedic wellness retreats abound in Kerala, where tourists can rejuvenate their mind, body, and soul with traditional therapies and massages.

Additionally, cultural enthusiasts can immerse themselves in Kerala's rich heritage by attending Kathakali dance performances, exploring historic forts and temples, and indulging in the region's delectable cuisine, known for its use of fresh seafood and aromatic spices.

6. New Delhi

New Delhi, the bustling capital city of India, is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity. Tourists visiting New Delhi can immerse themselves in a myriad of activities that cater to every interest.

History enthusiasts can explore the city's rich heritage by visiting iconic landmarks such as the magnificent Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and Humayun's Tomb.

Art lovers can indulge in the vibrant art scene at galleries like the National Gallery of Modern Art or explore the bustling lanes of Old Delhi, where centuries-old traditions come to life.

Foodies can tantalize their taste buds with a culinary adventure through the city's diverse eateries, from street food stalls serving spicy chaat to upscale restaurants offering gourmet Indian cuisine.

Shopping lovers can wander through bustling markets like Chandni Chowk and Connaught Place, where they can find everything from traditional handicrafts and textiles to trendy fashion boutiques.

7. Local Festivals in India

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Aside from visiting the best places in India, tourists can enhance their cultural immersion by participating in local festivals and celebrations.

Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, typically falls between October and November, marking the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It's celebrated with dazzling fireworks, vibrant decorations, and the exchange of sweets and gifts.

Holi, the Festival of Colors, usually takes place in March and heralds the arrival of spring. Participants joyously throw colored powders and water at each other, symbolizing unity and the triumph of love.

Durga Puja, honoring the goddess Durga, occurs in September or October, particularly prominent in West Bengal. Elaborate pandals (temporary structures) are erected, showcasing artistic idols of Durga and hosting cultural performances, rituals, and feasting.

Engaging in these festivals offers travelers a deeper understanding of India's rich cultural tapestry and creates lasting memories of their visit.

Travel Tips to India

As you explore the best places to visit in India, it's essential to embrace the cultural differences and customs of this diverse country. From the traditional attire to the spicy cuisine, India's rich cultural tapestry is a source of fascination and intrigue for travelers from Australia and beyond.

Embrace the warmth and hospitality of the locals, indulge in the flavors of authentic Indian cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant festivals and celebrations that showcase the country's cultural heritage. Sample the diverse and flavorful cuisine of India, from spicy curries to mouthwatering street food, in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata.

In conclusion, India offers a treasure trove of experiences for Australian travelers seeking an adventure of a lifetime. From the majestic monuments to the scenic landscapes, the cultural diversity to the warm hospitality, India captivates the hearts and minds of visitors with its timeless charm.

So why wait? Plan your trip to India today and go to the best places to visit India with Traveloka, your one-stop solution for booking activities, flights, and hotels. Let Traveloka take care of all your travel needs so you can explore the best places to visit in India without any worries. Bon voyage!

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15 Best Places to Visit in India, According to Travel Experts

F rom the alpine meadows of Kashmir to the palm-fringed beaches of Goa, these are some of the subcontinent’s most enchanting destinations.

As a former longtime Delhiite and frequent traveler to India, people often ask me what the country is like. I never know how to respond, for trying to sum up a nation as vast and diverse as India feels impossible. So, instead, I asked a few experts for their insights.

“If you visit India, you feel you have visited several countries, as every part is different,” says Mohd Shafi Billo, an inbound tour operator who specializes in helping international travelers plan their trips to the country. “It’s an exceptional destination, thanks to its culture, history, and inclusiveness of different people from different faiths, and it has everything to offer, from forts to mausoleums, wildlife tours to mountain adventures.”  

Shoba Rudra, founder and partner at hospitality consultancy Rare India , agrees. “The country is living a dynamic moment in history, ever-changing,” she says. “What's constant, however, is the vibrant culture lived through its festivals, cuisine, heritage, crafts, and performing arts.”

While it would take years to see it all, India is an approachable destination — if you can narrow things down. With that in mind, here are 15 of the best places to get you started on your sojourn to the subcontinent.

Stretching along the southernmost part of India’s Malabar Coast, the tropical state of Kerala entices visitors with its marshy backwaters, which most people visit on overnight houseboat adventures. These popular cruises “showcase lush landscapes and peaceful villages, and [give visitors] a glimpse into local life amid tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings,” says Billo. While the backwaters are a star attraction, the state offers much more to explore, from the tea plantations of Munnar, known for its cool climate and seemingly endless rolling hills, to the historic city of Kochi, celebrated in equal measure for its rich coastal history and contemporary art scene . The beaches aren’t too shabby, either. “North Kerala is also famous, as the Malabar Coast is where the spice trade flourished,” says Rudra. “The coastal area is picturesque and this region is still unexplored.”

On the opposite end of the country from Kerala, Kashmir offers entirely different — but equally captivating — landscapes. With its alpine climate, evergreen trees, and snowy winters, Kashmir is often likened to a mini Switzerland . Famed 13th-century Sufi poet Amir Khusrau once proclaimed in Farsi, “If there is a paradise on earth, it is this,” and he may have been onto something. At the heart of it all is Srinagar, Kashmir’s capital city, which is known for its elegant gardens and watery centerpiece, Dal Lake. “Highlights include staying on a houseboat or taking a shikara [traditional Kashmiri boat] ride,” says Billo, who hails from the area. Don't leave without indulging in wazwan , an opulent, meat-heavy feast that can feature up to three dozen dishes in one sitting. 

Occupying a high-altitude plateau in the northernmost reaches of India, Ladakh is characterized by otherworldly landscapes and big skies, punctuated by palatial stupas and monasteries. Many visitors come to Ladakh’s capital, Leh, during the short summer tourist season, but this surreal region offers plenty more to experience beyond the city. Billo suggests visiting the Nubra Valley, an isolated part of the old Silk Road that’s only accessible by crossing Khardung La, one of the world’s highest motorable passes. “The valley offers a glimpse into Ladakh's unique geography and cultural diversity with monasteries, quaint villages, and apricot orchards,” says Billo. The region is also rich with unusual wildlife, from elusive snow leopards to the scaled-down Bactrian camels that originated in the steppes of Central Asia.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

On the banks of the sacred Ganges River, the holy city of Rishikesh has held a place in the hearts of spiritually minded travelers — both from India and abroad — for generations. It’s the self-proclaimed “yoga capital of the world,” with a mix of traditional ashrams (spiritual rest houses) that cater largely to Hindu pilgrims and yoga centers that attract international visitors with teacher-training courses and meditation retreats. If you’re not into yoga, you’ll still find plenty to do here. Popular activities include visiting the ruins of the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram (dubbed the Beatles Ashram in honor of its most famous former residents) to whitewater rafting adventures on the mighty Ganges. It’s also a great place for a wellness getaway, and nearby Ananda in the Himalayas was voted one of Travel + Leisure readers' favorite international spas in 2023.

Auroville, Tamil Nadu

If you’re looking for a place that’s unlike anywhere else in India — or, frankly, the world — head to the intentional community of Auroville in South India. This UNESCO-recognized global township was founded in the 1960s with the goal of "realizing human unity," beyond the illusory divisions of creed or nationality, and it's home to generations of residents from around the world. Many visitors come for an hour or two, just long enough to view Auroville’s spiritual center — the golden, dome-shaped Matrimandir . However, it’s worth sticking around a bit longer to get a feel for what the community is about. As Akash Kapur, who grew up in Auroville and authored " Better to Have Gone " and " India Becoming ," puts it: "Come to Auroville if you're interested in alternative societies, sustainable living, or spirituality, but try not to just drop in for a few hours (as many do), and instead spend some time here, really getting to know the people and their work. The community rewards sustained immersion."

Andaman Islands

Although most people associate the crystalline waters of the Andaman Sea with Thai island getaways, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in this tropical region are under Indian control. This little stretch of paradise is full of gorgeous shorelines, but most visitors devote their vacations to the island of Swaraj Dweep (formerly known as Havelock). The most popular beach on the island is Radhanagar Beach , which offers just over a mile of white sand sandwiched between tropical jungle and warm, transparent waters. Getting to this remote island requires a bit of gumption: You'll need to fly from the Indian mainland to Port Blair on South Andaman Island, then catch a ferry or charter a seaplane for the final stretch. While visitors are welcome on many islands in the chain, a few — including secluded North Sentinel Island — are off-limits. 

While many travelers see India’s capital as a jumping-off point for visiting further-afield destinations, it’s worth sticking around for a while to truly appreciate what Delhi has to offer. There’s certainly never a dull moment in this busy metropolis, whether you’re shopping for handicrafts at one of its numerous markets or learning about medieval and Mughal history at one of its three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Humayun's Tomb, Qutb Minar, and Red Fort. Although Delhi is undeniably rambunctious, it also has a quieter, more peaceful side that you can find amidst the trees and 15th-century tombs of Central Delhi’s Lodi Gardens or in the quiet interiors of the Baháʼí Lotus Temple.

Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Many travelers to India put the 17th-century Taj Mahal at the top of their list. This white marble mausoleum is easily India’s most recognizable structure — and it’s one of the New Seven Wonders of the World . This popular attraction also has a romantic backstory. “This iconic symbol of love is renowned for its architectural beauty, intricate marble work, and the captivating story behind its creation by emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal,” notes Billo. The bodies of the emperor and his wife remain interred in the Taj to this day. 

Jaipur. Rajasthan

The capital of Rajasthan and one-third of North India’s popular Golden Triangle tourist route (which also includes Agra and Delhi), Jaipur is a must-visit for those who love architecture and shopping. “The Pink City, as it's nicknamed, offers a rich cultural heritage, stunning [landmarks] like Amber Fort, vibrant bazaars, and intricate handicrafts,” says Billo. Many of Jaipur's key attractions are found in the historic walled part of the city, which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. Highlights include Jantar Mantar (a collection of oversized — and fully functional — astronomical instruments dating to the 17th century) and Hawa Mahal, or Palace of the Winds, a honeycomb-shaped palace designed with tiny windows that allowed air to flow freely through its interior.

Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Dubbed the Blue City because of the cerulean-colored buildings that extend for miles through the oldest part of town, Jodhpur has long attracted travelers eager to explore the ramparts of the larger-than-life Mehrangarh Fort. It’s also home to the grandiose Umaid Bhawan Palace , which made headlines in 2018 when Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas tied the knot there. While Jodhpur’s beautiful, regal architecture is reason enough to visit, there’s more to the city than massive forts and grand palaces. “The area around the Toorji ka Jhalra stepwell in the old city is fun to explore,” says hotelier Sapna Bhatia, owner of Kaner Retreat and Jodhpur-area native. “For nature enthusiasts, there’s the Rao Jodha desert park near Mehrangarh Fort.”

Udaipur, Rajasthan

T+L readers' favorite city in Asia and second favorite city in the world , Udaipur very much fits the bill of a fairy tale destination. Nicknamed the City of Lakes, thanks to its seven lakes, this gorgeous destination is home to some of India's finest luxury hotels plus historic whitewashed palaces, including the magnificent City Palace, an 11-palace complex that houses hotels, a huge museum with an impressive collection of European crystal, and a royal residence. A short boat ride from the palace lies the 18th-century Taj Lake Palace, an opulent palace-turned-hotel in the middle of Lake Pichola. It’s a quick drive from The Oberoi, Udaivilas , a purpose-built palatial hotel with onion-domed cupolas and a moat-like swimming pool that directly connects to some of the rooms. 

If you’re looking for a less-frequented, but no less amazing, alternative to more touristed states such as Rajasthan, consider Gujarat. “Under-explored but culturally rich, this state in India is a tapestry of festivals, textiles, architectural heritage, communities, and landscape,” says Rudra. Gujarat was also the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, who led the Salt March, one of his most famous acts of peaceful protest, through the state in 1930. Rudra suggests visiting the National Salt Satyagraha Memorial , which “honors the activists through murals, installations, sculptures, art, and related film.” It's also worth checking out the Kutch district, known for its distinct metal bells , which were originally used for keeping track of livestock and are now popular as decorative wind chimes.

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

The northeast Indian state of Assam is home to a treasure for wildlife enthusiasts: Kaziranga National Park . This expansive, UNESCO-listed wildlife refuge near the borders of Bangladesh and Bhutan has the largest population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses on the planet, providing a home to roughly 2,000 of these massive beasts. Although rhinos are the star attraction on park safaris, all sorts of animals live here, including tigers, elephants, gibbons, sloth bears, and a small number of endangered Ganges River dolphins. 

Historic, glitzy, and positively gargantuan, Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay) is easily one of India’s most cosmopolitan destinations. This city by the sea is the nation's financial and entertainment capital, and while you’re unlikely to rub shoulders with Bollywood stars here, you're sure to see a lot of impressive attractions in very little time. Take a boat out to Elephanta Island to explore fifth– and sixth–century rock-hewn cave temples, marvel at the grand Indo-Saracenic architecture at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus , or see thousands of clothes hanging out to dry at Dhobi Ghat, the world's largest open-air laundry. Then, head to the sleek neighborhood of Bandra West, where many of Mumbai’s best restaurants and hotels are located, including Taj Lands End, voted T+L readers' favorite city hotel in India in 2023.

India’s smallest state, Goa, is arguably its top beach destination, where long days of swimming and sunbathing turn into longer nights of partying on the sand. While Goa has been known as a hippie haven since the 1960s, it's started to shed its reputation in recent decades. It’s still very much a party state, though it also draws in families and couples in search of sea and sun, sans nightlife. It’s a great place for history buffs as well, with numerous seaside forts and UNESCO-recognized churches that were built when Goa was under Portuguese rule. And while the destination has always been loved for its fiery dishes that combine traditional Konkani ingredients with Portuguese influences, it has also emerged as a culinary hot spot , where a new generation of chefs is showcasing everything from Japanese yakitori to jackfruit tamales.

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Amazon Prime Day 2024: Here's what to expect, tips, and tricks

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Amazon Prime Day has grown into one of the biggest sales events of the year, with discounts rivaling those of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. With so many retailers selling on Amazon, Prime members can save on just about anything, from viral beauty products to new unlocked smartphones.

The best Prime Day deals we saw last year included all-time lows on brands like Apple, Vitamix, iRobot, Dyson, Crocs, and, of course, Amazon-owned products like the Fire TV , Kindle e-reader , and Echo smart speakers . We expect to see more of the same this year as well.

It'll be the first major deal holiday of the year, so it's an awesome chance to score summer discounts on big-ticket items and household staples. The retailer's 10th Prime Day event has officially been announced to arrive in July, but the actual days are still unknown. In the meantime, we're keeping tabs on all of the latest Prime Day news, and we'll keep you updated with our findings here.

• Shop the latest deals at Amazon

When is Amazon Prime Day 2024?

Amazon Prime Day is officially coming this July, though the exact days have not yet been announced. In past years, it kicked off on the second Tuesday of the month. If Amazon follows the same trend, it will take place on July 9 and 10. We'll keep this story updated as more details are announced.

What is Amazon Prime Day?

Amazon Prime Day is the retailer's annual mega sale and one of the major benefits of Prime membership. It's a two-day sales event, usually during the summer, that features products from every category, from fashion staples to hot new tech. 

Though it used to be a deal holiday of a much smaller scale, Prime Day has grown exponentially since the first one in 2015. Now, you can find almost everything on sale for all-time low prices, matching discounts we see during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. 

What should I buy during Amazon Prime Day?

Everything is fair game to buy during Amazon Prime Day. Whether you've been holding out on a pricey new TV or just need to stock up on toiletries, Prime Day is a good time to make your move. 

Last year, we saw incredible prices on tech, including 4K TVs , Fire TV streaming devices , Apple products, Kindle e-readers , PC gaming accessories, Echo smart speakers , and top headphones picks. Prime Day tech deals featured brands like Logitech, Bose, Jabra, Sony, Roku, Samsung, TCL, and more. 

If you're looking for style and beauty deals during Prime Day, last year, brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Tatcha, Laneige, Levi's, Carhartt, Anastasia Beverly Hills, Adidas, and Marc Jacobs all featured products at rare low prices. That means skincare, makeup, shoes, men's clothing, women's fashion, and accessories will all be available for less. 

Home and kitchen products saw no shortage of Prime Day deals either, with big names like Dyson, Shark, iRobot, Philips, KitchenAid, Nespresso, Casper, Leesa, and OXO down to all-time lows for the event. So, whether you need an air fryer , robot vacuum , mattress , or just some sturdy mixing bowls, Prime Day is a good time to buy. 

You don't need to be focused on fancy new gadgets or treatments to shop smart during Amazon Prime Day either. We also catch tons of affordable household essentials available for even less every year, like toilet paper, dish soap, doggy bags, and makeup wipes. These deals are sweet, since they save you money on stuff you needed to buy anyway. 

How long do Prime Day deals last?

How long a Prime Day deal lasts differs between items, but in general, the best discounts will start during the event and end before the 48-hour holiday is over. Some will last the whole two days while others will only last one, so it's always wise to act on a good sale when you see it. Lightning deals especially go fast, the most popular of which dwindle away in less than an hour.

I always recommend buying a product you've had your eye on as soon as it's highlighted as a Prime Day deal. Regardless of how long it's set to last, oftentimes the best sales run out of stock, resulting in shipping dates being pushed out, or the deal no longer being offered at all. We'll be providing all of the deal context you need to shop confidently and quickly, so be sure to check our roundups of the best discounts when the event rolls around. 

Do you need to be a Prime member to shop Amazon Prime Day?

Amazon Prime Day is locked to Prime members only. It's one of the major benefits of subscribing to the service, in addition to other perks like free two-day shipping and Prime Video streaming. 

If you have yet to become a member, you can sign up for a free 30-day trial to test it out. Once the official Prime Day dates have been announced, you can even time your free period to overlap with the sale, but it's not a guarantee since sometimes retailers will lock out free members from shopping the best deals.

Do other stores participate in Prime Day?

Although Prime Day is an Amazon-specific event, it's grown so large that other major retailers have started kicking off competing sales to overlap with it. No one has announced a competing Prime Day sale just yet, but if past years are any indication, Walmart, Target, and Best Buy will likely be holding their own events.

These are definitely worth checking out; they often match the best deals on popular items you can find from Prime Day. We'll also be rounding these deals up so you can shop from the retailer that best suits you, whether you're a Target Circle cardholder, My Best Buy Plus member, or Walmart Plus subscriber. 

Is Prime Day an international event?

Prime Day occurs in several other countries, but not all of them. Here's a list of countries where Prime Day will be available to shop:

• Netherlands
• Saudi Arabia
• The United Arab Emirates
• The United States
• The United Kingdom

Want to see what Amazon has on sale right now? We've spotted some hefty price cuts on electronics, fashion, home, kitchen, laptops, and more on its main deals page .

• Main content

Air India Flying Returns: How to earn and redeem points, elite status and more

Air India is refreshing its identity. It has placed a massive aircraft order , rolled out new crew uniforms, adopted a new aircraft livery and begun installing refreshed seats .

Alongside a new website, the airline has also revamped its Air India Flying Returns loyalty program . Here's what you need to know about the updated Air India Flying Returns program.

What is Air India Flying Returns?

Air India Flying Returns is the loyalty program for Air India. You can earn and redeem reward points within the Flying Returns program and earn tier points toward elite status.

Air India is a Star Alliance airline , so you may be interested in its loyalty program even if you don't frequently visit India or fly on Air India.

Related: The best ways to fly to India with points and miles

How to earn Flying Returns points

Within the Air India Flying Returns program, there are two types of points: reward points and tier points. You can redeem reward points for award flights and upgrades, while tier points are what you need to earn Flying Returns elite status.

Reward points expire 24 months after you earn them, but you can extend the expiration date of all your reward points each time you fly on a paid flight operated by Air India.

Earn reward and tier points on Air India flights

You can earn reward and tier points on Air India flights. You'll earn reward points as follows on Air India flights:

• Red elite members : 6 reward points per 100 Indian rupees (about $1.20)
• Silver elite members : 8 reward points per 100 Indian rupees
• Gold elite members : 9 reward points per 100 Indian rupees
• Platinum elite members : 10 reward points per 100 Indian rupees

Plus, you'll earn 2 bonus reward points per 100 Indian rupees when you book using the Air India website or mobile app. You also earn 6 tier points per 100 Indian rupees spent on Air India flights regardless of your Flying Returns elite status tier.

Earn reward and tier points on Star Alliance flights

You can earn reward and tier points when you fly in eligible fare classes on Star Alliance airline partners. You'll earn reward points based on your flight distance and fare class, as shown on the partner airlines page . You'll also earn 1 tier point per 2 reward points when flying on Star Alliance partner airlines.

Other ways to earn reward points

You can also earn reward points (but not tier points) with select partners. Here's a quick overview:

• Air India credit cards : Residents of India can apply for an Air India credit card that earns reward points. There aren't currently any cobranded Air India credit cards available to U.S. residents.
• Convert transferable points : Some banks within India allow cardmembers to transfer rewards to Air India. However, Air India isn't a transfer partner for major U.S. transferable reward currencies.
• Stays : Several regional hotel brands and properties in India let Flying Returns members earn 5 to 20 reward points per 100 Indian rupees spent on stays.
• Car rentals : Three lesser-known car rental companies — Bookairportcab.com, Discover Cars and Zoomcar — let Flying Returns members earn 5 to 10 reward points per 100 Indian rupees spent.
• Experience and lifestyle purchases : Several merchants, including Antara River Cruises and Sherpa, let Flying Returns members earn 5 to 25 reward points per 100 Indian rupees spent. Meanwhile, one merchant offers a much lower 5 reward points per 4 euros (about $4.27) spent.

Unfortunately, most of these other ways to earn reward points won't help travelers who don't spend extensive time in India. Some are inaccessible if you aren't eligible for credit cards issued by Indian banks.

Related: Staying at the only Category 1 Park Hyatt: My review of the Park Hyatt Chennai

Air India Flying Returns elite status

The Air India Flying Returns program has four tiers, including an entry-level Red tier with no requirements. To reach the other tiers, you must meet specific requirements for tier points or flights with Air India and its Star Alliance partner airlines over the last 365 days.

Once you meet the requirements for a new elite status tier, you'll enjoy its benefits for one year. After that point, you'll be downgraded based on your activity within the last 365 days.

Qualification requirements for each Flying Returns elite status tier are as follows:

• Red : No qualification requirements
• Silver : 15,000 tier points (with at least 4,500 tier points on Air India) or 30 flights (with at least four flights on Air India)
• Gold : 30,000 tier points (with at least 9,000 tier points on Air India) or 60 flights (with at least eight flights on Air India)
• Platinum : 45,000 tier points (with at least 13,500 tier points on Air India) or 90 flights (with at least 12 flights on Air India)

The primary benefit of Flying Returns Red status is the ability to earn and redeem points. Here's a look at the primary benefits you can expect at each Flying Returns elite status tier above what you'd get at the previous tier:

• Silver : Star Alliance Silver status, 50% off on standard seats on domestic Air India flights, one upgrade voucher for a domestic Air India flight, priority check-in and boarding, less expensive change fees on domestic Air India flights, the ability to check 10 kilograms (about 22 pounds) more on Air India flights where the free baggage allowance uses a weight-based system and priority waitlist clearance
• Gold : Star Alliance Gold status, lounge access with one guest, free standard seat selection on Air India flights, two upgrade vouchers for domestic flights, Fly Early benefit on domestic Air India flights, the ability to check 20 kilograms (about 44 pounds) extra or one piece more on Air India flights and Star Alliance partner flights, one free change per ticket on domestic Air India flights up to 24 hours before departure (and on international Air India flights up to 72 hours before departure) and less expensive cancellation fees for domestic Air India flights
• Platinum : free seat selection on Air India flights, three upgrade vouchers for domestic flights, two free changes per ticket on Air India flights up to 24 hours before departure and waived cancellation fees on domestic Air India flights

If you don't frequently fly on Air India, the primary benefit of status will be the Star Alliance status you can get. However, you must reach Gold for Star Alliance Gold status before seeing any significant benefits.

Related: This 232-year-old fort is part of Hyatt's luxury Alila brand: Here's why I loved my stay

How to redeem Flying Returns points

You can redeem Flying Returns points for Air India flights, Star Alliance partner flights and upgrades on Air India flights.

Redeem points on Air India

You can redeem points for flights or upgrades on flights Air India operates. I haven't found an award chart for flights or upgrades, but you can check the rates for specific routes using the Flying Returns points calculator .

Here's the award flight and upgrade rates I found using the calculator for a few one-way routes (the calculator wouldn't give me the award cost for premium economy or business awards on these routes):

• Mumbai to Jaipur, India : 6,000 points for a Value economy award flight, 8,000 points for a Prime economy award flight and 12,000 points to upgrade from economy to business
• Mumbai to Delhi, India : 5,000 to 7,500 points for a Value economy award flight, 9,500 points for a Prime economy award flight and 15,500 points to upgrade from economy to business
• Bengaluru to Delhi, India : 7,800 to 8,000 points for a Value economy award flight, 12,000 points for a Prime economy award flight and 23,000 points to upgrade from economy to business
• Delhi to Chicago : 65,000 points for a Value economy award flight, 84,000 points for a Prime economy award flight, 42,000 points to upgrade from economy to premium economy and 110,000 points to upgrade from economy to business
• Delhi to San Francisco : 77,000 points for a Value economy award flight, 103,000 points for a Prime economy award flight, 47,000 points to upgrade from economy to premium economy and 108,000 points to upgrade from economy to business

Redeem Flying Returns points on Star Alliance partners

Air India claimed all Star Alliance partners would be bookable online when the revamped program launched in early April. However, the Air India website still notes that you can only book award flights operated by United Airlines, Lufthansa, Air Canada, Singapore Airlines, Air New Zealand and Austrian Airlines online. You must call to book award flights operated by other Star Alliance airlines.

You can only book one-segment awards on Star Alliance airlines, and there's no published award chart for Star Alliance partners. Instead, Flying Returns members are instructed to enter their flight details into the points calculator to see award rates. However, each Star Alliance partner route I entered into the calculator gave me a "No routes found" error.

Undeterred, I headed to the award booking tool and found I could book an economy award flight from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD) on at least one date for 5,500 points. I don't have 5,500 points in my account, so the website wouldn't let me see the taxes and fees on this award.

I also found a date on which I could book an economy award flight from EWR to Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) for 7,500 points.

You can also redeem Flying Returns points for upgrades on Star Alliance flights. However, with the points calculator not working for Star Alliance partner routes and without a potential flight to update, I couldn't see the upgrade rates.

Related: The best websites to search for Star Alliance award availability

Best credit cards to book Air India flights

Out of the cards available to U.S. residents, you'll want to use some of our best cards for airfare when booking Air India flights. My favorite is the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card , which offers 3 points per dollar spent on purchases in select categories, including travel (on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases each account anniversary year), trip delay protection and delayed baggage protection .

If you aren't eligible for a business credit card , here are some of the best personal cards and what they earn on flights:

• The Platinum Card® from American Express : 5 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar)
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® : 5 points per dollar spent on flights purchased through Chase Travel℠ and 3 points per dollar spent on other travel
• American Express® Gold Card : 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel
• Citi Premier® Card (see rates and fees ): 3 points per dollar spent on air travel
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : 5 points per dollar spent on flights purchased through Chase Travel and 2 points per dollar spent on other travel

These cards are great regardless of whether you're booking a paid flight or an award flight. Remember that it may be worth using a card with a lower earning rate if it offers better travel insurance benefits, especially in cases when you're only paying the taxes and fees for an award flight .

Related: The best credit cards with travel insurance

Bottom line

Air India didn't have the best reputation historically, as covered by TPG contributors in past stories about a honeymoon disaster and a horrendous transatlantic flight . Thankfully, it seems the airline and its loyalty program are improving, even though its points calculator and award search aren't as functional as I'd like.

Air India says it may add transfer partners and credit cards for U.S. residents in the future. But until then, there's little reason for most travelers based in the U.S. to utilize Air India Flying Returns.