Home India Is it worth hiring a guide in India?

Is it worth hiring a guide in India?

by Guest Post & Amelia Curran

India is a vast country, with a colourful and sometimes chaotic way of life. For even the most well-travelled visitor, exploring the country can seem a little daunting. This is where the benefit of a guide (and driver!) becomes clear.

India driver guide

Founder Sam and family with their driver

Whilst travelling in India, you’ll usually have a driver who speaks basic English and can take you between experiences on holiday. They’re there to help you with logistical issues such as finding ATM machines and suggesting nice places to eat. Our drivers have been vetted and generally have a good basic grasp of English and can tell you stories along the way. They will also be able to take you to more remote hotels that the average driver just wouldn’t be able to find.

When you reach a point of interest, you can arrange to have a local specialist guide to take you round; it’s no exaggeration to say he really will add an extra dimension to your experience and bring the place to life.

Guides can really help you get under the surface of Indian culture. They’re not just knowledgeable about the country’s history and heritage, they can also be expert at knowing all the ways to avoid big crowds and how to experience the country at its best. Our guides, for instance, are trained to give twists on the classic excursions; they combine a tour of the iconic Amber Fort early in the morning with a visit to nearby Meena tribal village in the afternoon. Just one example of how a guide can maximise your experience, they can take you on an inspiring journey that no guidebook can really compare with.

Another good example can be seen in Delhi. Many guides give cookie cutter tours of the main sights but we’ve thrown everything up in the air and started again. With our guides, you start in New Delhi where it’s a bit quieter and more suburban. Then you hop on a tuk-tuk so you can get around quickly and visit less obvious highlights like the magnificent stepwell, Agrasen ki Baoli. The following day there are various walking tours on offer, each themed differently and letting you get a flavour of all the contrasting districts in the city. Without top notch, flexible and fun guides this experience just wouldn’t be possible.


If you want to discuss your holiday to India with one of our travel experts, do get in contact on 020 3627 3086 or via email here. For more inspiration for your holiday, have a look at our example itineraries, and please note they can all be tailored to suit your exact needs and preferences – they’re just a starting point. 


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