Introducing India

India is an intriguing yet overwhelming place. It is a melting pot of several religions, several hundred languages, and several million people. Due to its staggering size, it can be difficult to know where to start when planning a trip there. Luckily a helping hand isn’t far away. We’ve stripped India back to basics, compiling a list of India’s highlights and more importantly, how, where and when to see them. Exploring the nooks and crannies of its cities, discovering its ancient charm, experiencing its age old rituals, and falling under the spell of India’s irrepressible charm makes for an adventure you will never forget.

Indian festivals

India is a magical country which welcomes travellers with a chaotic and colourful assault on the senses. Never is this more prominent than during one of the many festivals. Below we have listed the dates for the major festivals in India in 2017. Speak to one of our specialists about incorporating one of these into a tailor-made itinerary.

India's cuisine

Only after stepping foot in India will you realise that Indian cuisine, as you know it, just doesn’t exist. To paint both the delicate and punchy flavours of India with the same broad brushstroke overlooks the smorgasbord of dishes on offer from north to south. Tried and tested recipes balance coriander, cumin and cardamom with almost scientific precision, guaranteeing a culinary experience you will never forget.

Toy Trains of India

With millions of passengers on the move every day, travelling on some 71,000 miles of track, India's intricate network of railways are the arteries of the country, connecting its bustling cities with its sleepy villages and everywhere in between. The sprawling rail network reaches the nooks and crannies of India which are otherwise impossible to find. Amongst the country's miles of train tracks are some of the most picturesque rail journeys in the world, most notable of which are its famed toy trains. Whilst perhaps not the most efficient way of getting from A to B, the experience is an absolute must to add to your India itinerary.

Rajasthan – 3 different ways

With its wild desert scenery, ancient sandcastle forts and pastel-coloured cities, Rajasthan is the romantic state of India. Rajasthan has a fantastic collection of must-see cultural sights including Jaipur’s Amber Fort, Udaipur’s Lake Palace, and Jodphur’s impressive Mehrangarh Fort – to name just a few! Aside from the charming cities, rural Rajasthan offers beautiful scenery and is home to one of the best national parks in northern India: Ranthambore.

Luxury Rajasthan

"Although the main focus for your holiday will be to visit Rajasthan’s cities, temples, palaces & deserts, Rajasthan also has a number of properties that really have the WOW-factor to give your holiday that added bit of luxury! In my opinion you cannot get much better than The Serai. Set in the Great Thar Desert this exuberant tented camp is one of the finest places to stay in northern India, without a doubt!" - Ric Duncombe, India specialist
For a luxurious Rajasthan holiday, Ric recommends our Classic Rajasthan itinerary.

Value Rajasthan

"For me, Rajasthan is all about the culture: the incredible sights and people; and the landscape. I wouldn’t go there to stay at an uber luxurious hotel (I’d go to the Maldives). However when it does come to choosing where to stay there are a number of fantastic properties that have real charm and don’t break the bank! A particular favourite is Jagat Niwas in Udaipur. Probably the best place to stay for views of the Lake Palace, Jagat Niwas is simple yet completely charming. Accommodation and sight-seeing combined!" - Ellis Valentine, India specialist
For a fantastic Rajasthan holiday that won’t break the budget, Ellis recommends our Heritage Havelis Rajasthan itinerary.

Rural Rajasthan

"In all honesty, my favourite part of Rajasthan is the rural areas. Don’t get me wrong I do enjoy strolling through the cities. However, being able to explore the rural villages and landscapes allows you to really get under the skin of Rajasthan. As well as affording you some peace and quiet (always much needed on a holiday!). For something a little different, I recommend staying within the walls of Nagaur Fort at the charming Ranvas Nagaur." - Ric Duncombe, India specialist
For a taste of all that rural Rajasthan has to offer, Ric recommends our Heritage Havelis of North India itinerary.