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Holidays in India

Immersive, bespoke trips designed for you

AITO

Our Unique Holidays in India

Relaxing, immersive, life-affirming adventures that show you the best of the destination. Packed with experiences that connect you to the country and are kind to its people and environment. Your holiday can be as adventurous or as luxurious as you choose, as every trip will be turned into your own bespoke package.

Here are some ideas to spark your curiosity…

Bhutan River

Bhutan, India

Tea & Happiness in Darjeeling & Bhutan

17 Days
Wildlife

Delhi, India

Wildlife Wonders of Ladakh

14 Days
Luxury

Delhi, India, Jaipur

Ultimate India

20 Days
Tiger, Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris), in Bandhavgarh National Park in India
Culture

Agra, Central India, Delhi

Less Discovered Northern India

14 Days
Culture

Central India, Delhi, India

Less is More in Madhya Pradesh

14 Days
Culture

Central India, East & North East India, India

Temples, Jungles & Trains in India

16 Days
Rann,Of,Kutch,,District,Kutch,,Gujarat,,India.
Culture

Gujarat, India, Mumbai

Rural Gujarat & Rajasthan

15 Days
Culture

East & North East India, India, Kolkata

The Plains of Bengal

13 Days
Classic

Agra, Delhi, India

Tigers & Taj: India Highlights

15 Days
Hutheesing,Jain,Temple,,Consecreted,In,1848,,Is,One,Of,The
Culture

Central India, India, Madhya Pradesh

Off the Beaten Track Gujarat & Madhya Pradesh

16 Days
Rhino at Diphlu river lodge
Wildlife

East & North East India, India, Kolkata

Rivers, Rhinos and Culture

18 Days
Culture

Coorg, Goa, Hampi

Wild Karnataka and Beach

17 Days
Wildlife

Central India, Delhi, India

Wildlife & Adventure in Rudyard Kipling's India

14 Days
Culture

Delhi, East & North East India, India

Footsteps of The Raj

15 Days
Culture

Coorg, Hampi, India

Varied Landscapes of South India

16 Days
Tamil Nadu
Culture

Chennai, Chettinad, India

In-depth Tamil Nadu

15 Days
Culture

Delhi, India, Ladakh

Culture & Arts of Ladakh

14 Days
Luxury

Agra, Delhi, India

Regal Residences of Rajasthan

16 Days
Culture

Alleppey, India, Kerala

Kerala Encompassed

23 Days
view from glenburn penthouse
Culture

Darjeeling, East & North East India, India

Highlights of East India

17 Days
Hutheesing,Jain,Temple,,Consecreted,In,1848,,Is,One,Of,The
Off the Beaten Track

Gujarat, India

Gujarat In Depth

17 Days
Himalayas
Culture

Agra, Delhi, India

The Golden Triangle & The Himalayas

15 Days
Varanasi Ganges river ghat with ancient city architecture as viewed from a boat on the river at sunset.
Culture

Delhi, India, Kolkata

East to West: Highlights of the Gangetic Plain

14 Days
birdlife of sri lanka
Wildlife

India, Kerala, Mysore

Birds of South India

14 Days
Wildlife

Delhi, India, Mumbai

The Birdlife of North India

17 Days
Off the Beaten Track

Delhi, India, Madhya Pradesh

A Journey through Madhya Pradesh

17 Days
Rajasthan
Culture

Agra, Delhi, India

Classic Rajasthan with the Taj Mahal

15 Days

Bhutan, India

India's Golden Triangle & Bhutan’s Natural Beauty

15 Days
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Bhutan River
17 Days

Bhutan

Tea & Happiness in Darjeeling & Bhutan

Explore colonial architecture left by the British Raj and a 17th Century monastery said to have been left by Guru Rinpoche, who flew in on a tigress!

This one of a kind itinerary will really feed the appetite of curious travellers who love to experience new cultures whilst taking in awesome scenery and historical contrasts. Visit the Himalayan tea plantations of Darjeeling in West Bengal, then embark on an adventure in the neighbouring Buddhist Kingdom of Bhutan – a country that is literally governed by a philosophy of happiness! You’ll also take in India’s vibrant, eclectic cultural capital, Kolkata.

Highlights

Darjeeling Mail Train

Snaking through West Bengal on the overnight Darjeeling Mail Train

Tiger’s Nest monastery

Taking on the challenge of hiking to the spectacular Tiger’s Nest monastery in Bhutan, with the option to camp along the way

Himalayas

Sipping fresh hand-picked tea whilst gazing out to the Himalayas from your heritage hotel in Darjeeling

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Wildlife
14 Days

India

Wildlife Wonders of Ladakh

Venture into the heart of the Himalayas for a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife adventure. Look out for the elusive snow leopard, the mighty Himalayan Brown Bear, and the majestic lynx in one of the world’s most remote regions.

March and April are the prime time for snow leopard and brown bear sightings, when the landscapes are breathtaking, snowy in the high-altitude areas, and bursting with wildflowers in the bear territories. This unique journey immerses you in the wild beauty of Ladakh, offering an experience that blends adventure with nature’s serenity.

In addition to extraordinary wildlife experiences, you’ll enjoy many moments of tranquillity and awe in remote villages and historic sites. Whether you’re tracking wildlife across snow-covered valleys or experiencing Ladakh’s rich culture, each day brings you closer to the wilderness that few have witnessed. 

Highlights

Snow Leopards

Track elusive snow leopards in their natural habitat at Rumbak Lodge

Brown Bears

Spot Himalayan Brown Bears using telescopes from Drenmo Lodge, where wildflowers bloom in the surrounding valleys

Trekking

Embark on thrilling wildlife treks to encounter lynx, ibex, and Tibetan wolves in their unspoiled environment

Gaze up the stars above

Under Ladakh’s clear, high-altitude skies, away from city lights

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Luxury
20 Days

India

Ultimate India

Indulge in the luxury and culture of India on a journey that takes you from the bustling streets of Delhi to the serene palaces of Rajasthan, with a side of adventure in the heart of Ranthambore. This expertly crafted itinerary blends world-class accommodations, unforgettable experiences, and the chance to explore India in all its beauty—off the beaten path, but with every comfort you could wish for.

Stay in the finest luxury properties, enjoy curated local experiences, and see the Golden Triangle’s most iconic landmarks in the most immersive way possible. Get up close to India’s royal history, sensational landscapes, and vibrant culture as you explore majestic cities and hidden gems.

Highlights

The Taj Mahal

Take in an ethereal sunrise over the Taj Mahal, one of the world’s most renowned landmarks

Ranthambore National Park

Set off on a private game drive through Ranthambore National Park in search of tigers and other wildlife

Jodhpur’s Blue City

Discover the magic of Jodhpur’s Blue City, and visit the mighty Mehrangarh Fort

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Tiger, Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris), in Bandhavgarh National Park in India
Culture
14 Days

India

Less Discovered Northern India

This two-week itinerary is ideal for culture, food, and wildlife lovers who want to go to an area of India which is well off the trodden path, and it will immerse you into two completely different states: Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh.

You’ll have six nights of wildlife and rural village experiences in Corbett and Dudhwa national parks, ideal for those who like to invest time and energy into getting the most out of their national park experience.  You’ll also visit bustling Delhi and Lucknow, and finish with the iconic Taj Mahal.

Highlights

The Taj Mahal

Immerse yourselves in the bazaars of Aminabad, Lucknow for a unique food tour with an expert local guide

Ranthambore National Park

Explore the three sanctuaries in Dudhwa national park, looking for tigers, rhinos, dolphins, and turtles from your luxury lodge

Jodhpur’s Blue City

Finish with the iconic Taj Mahal and a ride to Delhi

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Culture
14 Days

India

Less is More in Madhya Pradesh

Taking in a small slice of central India, at a leisurely pace, this itinerary allows visitors to discover the central heartlands of India.

From the little known but beautiful national park at Satpura to the culturally rich city of Bhopal with its line of female Muslim rulers (the Begums of Bhopal) to sleepy, magical Maheshwar on the banks of the sacred Narmada River; there is such an incredible variety of scenery, wildlife, culture, history and daily life to discover in this small slice of Madhya Pradesh.

Highlights

Satpura National Park

Explore Satpura national park at your own pace – by jeep, on foot, by boat or even by bike

Bhopal City

An incredible city walkthrough Bhopal, an overlooked gem of a city, rich in history

Stay in a historic fort

Stay at a 250-year-old fort on the banks of the sacred Narmada River, steeped in history and romance

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Culture
16 Days

India

Temples, Jungles & Trains in India

Traverse India taking in the incredible history and temples of Odisha, the jungles and national parks Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh before flying home from the thriving metropolis of Mumbai. On this journey, you’ll take an overnight train, get an insight into remote tribal life and how human and animal populations live together. Get well away from the tourist trail, whilst not spending too much time travelling and more time focusing on just four locations in order to really get under the skin of each destination…and relax whilst doing so!

Highlights

Overnight Train Experience

Board an overnight train and journey through a remote part of East and Central India

Kanha National Park

Get up close and personal to the wildlife in Kanha National Park on foot or by jeep with a naturalist guide

Tribal Villages and Jungles

Explore the tribal villages and jungles of beautiful and remote Chhattisgarh by foot or bike

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Rann,Of,Kutch,,District,Kutch,,Gujarat,,India.
Culture
15 Days

India

Rural Gujarat & Rajasthan

See three contrasting sides of India on this journey from vibrant Mumbai into Gujarat and on through rural Rajasthan. Gujarat sits mid-way between Mumbai and Rajasthan, and this itinerary incorporates both into the trip.

Set off on an adventure through Mumbai’s vibrant cityscape, delve into Gujarat’s historical treasures and sample its diverse cuisine. End your adventure in Udaipur, where lakes and palaces create an unforgettable backdrop.

Highlights

The White Rann

Stay in the cultural hub of Bhuj, and explore the surreal landscape of the White Rann

Kutch Wildlife Spotting

Go wildlife spotting in Kutch to see the endangered Indian Wild Ass

Lake Pichola Boat Trip

Take a scenic boat trip across Lake Pichola in the romantic city of Udaipur

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Culture
13 Days

India

The Plains of Bengal

An intriguing holiday that will appeal to India second-timers who want to explore a fascinating and off-the-beaten-track region. Spend time on The Ganges, explore multicultural Kolkata, take in some incredible monuments, and discover the rich history of the area. You’ll explore the sights with knowledgeable guides and, while staying in heritage hotels, you’ll likely encounter fascinating owners who have a passion for the life and history of Bengal.

Highlights

Unique Stay

Stay in fabulous characterful properties such as a recently refurbished palace that evokes a bygone era

Historic Monuments

Explore a wide array of well-maintained monuments dating back hundreds of years

Enjoy Local Flavours

Experience an array of flavours with delicious local cuisine and afternoon tea on the Ganges

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Classic
15 Days

India

Tigers & Taj: India Highlights

This holiday suggestion is perfect for first-timers to India. It combines the principal highlights of India: the Taj, tigers at Ranthambore, and the majestic forts at Jaipur, but at a pace that allows time to relax at a beautiful and unique retreat.

Imagine India’s fascinating history, thrilling wildlife, and warm hospitality. From the chaos of Old Delhi to the serenity of Ranthambore’s jungles and the rustic opulence of Ramathra Fort, this journey brings the essence of India to life in vivid detail.

Highlights

The Taj Mahal

Marvel at the ethereal beauty of the Taj Mahal

Ranthambore National Park

Experience the thrill of spotting tigers and other wildlife in Ranthambore National Park

Jaipur

Explore Jaipur’s architectural marvels, from the Amber Fort to the intricate Hawa Mahal

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Hutheesing,Jain,Temple,,Consecreted,In,1848,,Is,One,Of,The
Culture
16 Days

India

Off the Beaten Track Gujarat & Madhya Pradesh

Discover the soul of India travelling west to east from Gujarat into rural Madhya Pradesh—an enchanting fusion of vibrant culture, ancient history, and untouched landscapes.

Highlights

UNESCO City of Ahmedabad

Explore UNESCO Ahmedabad’s cultural gems, from bustling streets to tranquil temples

The Black Buck Sanctuary

Discover India’s smallest national park, teeming with blackbuck antelopes and diverse bird species

Stay in a 250 year old fort

Unwind in a remote 1800s fort, blending regional history with Narmada River serenity

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Rhino at Diphlu river lodge
Wildlife
18 Days

India

Rivers, Rhinos and Culture

Experience the sights and sounds of West Bengal and Assam on this in-depth itinerary. This varied trip takes you through lesser-visited but bustling cities, rural villages, and thriving natural parks to create a holiday packed with unusual and exhilarating experiences.

Highlights

Kolkata

Explore the colourful city of Kolkata with visits to the botanical gardens and the home of a renowned art dealer

River Ganges Cruise

Discover the vibrant culture and rich history of life on the River Ganges with a 7-day cruise

Kaziranga National Park

Spot wildlife on a private safari in the Kaziranga National Park, including rhinos, tigers, and hundreds of bird species

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Culture
17 Days

India

Wild Karnataka and Beach

This exciting off-the-beaten-track trip takes you on a journey through Karnataka, visiting Mysuru and Hampi – both with their own world heritage sites – and then getting away from it all at two beautiful boutique hotels in the plantations of Coorg and Chikmagalur.

Nagarhole National Park offers plenty of opportunity for wildlife experiences, and the adventure closes with some relaxation at the beach in Goa.

Uniquely, this holiday is designed using alternatives to domestic flights. This makes for a fantastic way to absorb the country’s atmosphere and scenery in a way that many visitors miss out on.

Highlights

Karnataka Train Journey

Rattling through wild Karnataka on a local train journey from Hospet to Goa

Chikmagalur Coffee Plantation

Walking around the first coffee plantation in India in rural Chikmagalur

Nagarhole National Park

Bumping around in a jeep as you explore Nagarhole National Park with its herds of elephants and deer

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Wildlife
14 Days

India

Wildlife & Adventure in Rudyard Kipling's India

Follow the footsteps of Rudyard Kipling and embark on an extraordinary journey across Madhya Pradesh. Visit the wildlife park that inspired The Jungle Book, Pench National Park; spot a living Shere Khan tiger and see the cheeky monkeys in their natural environment. With cycling, trekking and camping adventures to boot, this is a holiday of a lifetime.

As well as paying homage to Kipling’s wildlife experiences in India, this itinerary includes cycling in Kanha to heading out on boat and kayaking safaris in Satpura; there are plenty of fun outdoor activities.

Highlights

Pench Tiger Reserve

Tiger spotting in the Pench Tiger Reserve: give yourself the best chance to observe the king of the Indian jungle in his natural habitat.

Satpura National Park

Boating safaris in Satpura National Park – with only 6 jeeps for the park, you’ll be guaranteed an exclusive experience.

Trekking

An extraordinary trekking adventure into the heart of the countryside.

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Culture
15 Days

India

Footsteps of The Raj

This unique itinerary takes in the North of India including Delhi and the former summer capital of the British Raj, Shimla. In the countries east, you’ll explore multi-cultural Lucknow and Kolkatta, the former capital of British India.

Countryside adventures will take you to the Himalayas in the North and rural West Bengal in the east, giving you a flavour of the diversity of landscape found in India combined with a taste of its urban diversity as influenced by the British Empire.

Highlights

Kolkata

Explore Kolkata, the former capital of British India, on an insightful walking tour through its historic streets

Himalayas

Journey aboard the narrow-gauge “toy train”, winding through forested hills and charming hillside villages

Shali Tibba

Trek to the summit of Shali Tibba in the Himalayas, surrounded by sweeping mountain views

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Culture
16 Days

India

Varied Landscapes of South India

Stray from the typical South India tourist trail and immerse yourself in an array of landscapes and local experiences as you travel west on this two-week journey.

You’ll begin in the fascinating city of Hyderabad and end in India’s largest, most cosmopolitan city, Mumbai. With local guides in each place, you’ll delve into the different cultures of each area and experience an array of landscapes with time to relax in a variety of luxurious accommodation. After exploring the outskirts of Hyderabad, fly direct to the boulder-strewn horizons of Hampi, spend time in lush spice plantations and the rugged Western Ghats before relaxing on the beaches of quiet Nileshwar.

Highlights

Charminar

Explore the markets surrounding the Charminar in central Hyderabad, taste the local biryani and tour the ancient forts and tombs that surround the city

Hampi

Get to know the splendour of the Vijayanagara Empire and the stunning boulder strewn landscape of Hampi

Northern Kerala Beaches

Relax on the quiet beaches of Nileshwar in Northern Kerala

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Tamil Nadu
Culture
15 Days

India

In-depth Tamil Nadu

On this two-week privately guided holiday you’ll experience the southern state of Tamil Nadu only with its deep-rooted religious beliefs, incredible temple sites, remote plantations and the coastal regions of Pondicherry and Mahabalipuram.

You’ll move every couple of nights and travel by train, plane and your private car; we designed this trip for more active travellers who likes to keep the holiday varied, but balanced. Three days towards the end will give you some downtime on the beach.

Highlights

Chettinad

Hunting for antiques with your guide in Chettinad, where you feel like you’ve stepped back in time

Sri Meenakshi temple

Watching the evening puja ceremony with pilgrims at Sri Meenakshi temple

Pondicherry

Walking around the white town area of Pondicherry with your local guide

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Culture
14 Days

India

Culture & Arts of Ladakh

Step into a land where ancient traditions, vibrant arts, and breathtaking landscapes intertwine. Ladakh is a cultural treasure trove, where Buddhism, Islamic influence, and the natural world come together in remarkable harmony. This journey takes you deep into the heart of Ladakh’s artistic heritage, where every monastery, market, and village has a story waiting to be discovered. From intricate murals to vibrant local crafts, this is the trip for those who want to see and experience the cultural soul of the Himalayas. 

Delve into the art, history, and traditions of this remote region while visiting peaceful monasteries, bustling villages, and striking landscapes. Each stop on your journey brings you closer to the traditions that have shaped Ladakh for centuries, offering an experience unlike any other. 

Highlights

Experience a private dinner with the king at Yabgo Palace. 

Wander through Ensa Monastery, marvelling at its ancient mural art.

Discover traditional Ladakhi craftsmanship, from copper to mok-mok-making.

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Luxury
16 Days

India

Regal Residences of Rajasthan

This is a far cry from the tired old route that almost everyone takes through India’s Golden Triangle. We know that you’re not everyone. Veer off the tourist trail into the heartlands of Rajasthan to feel the true essence of timeless and, yes, incredible India.

You’ll still be able to experience the manic magic of Delhi, the warm pink hues of Japiur and the magnificence of the Taj Mahal. But you’ll also experience so much more by staying in some of the country’s best heritage properties, brought to life by charismatic hosts. You’ll get the best of both worlds – and be amazed that the rest of the world doesn’t seem to be in on the secret. Shhh!

Highlights

Chambal River

Explore magnificent and lesser-visited sites on the banks of the Chambal River

Heritage properties

Experience a flavour of rural and royal Rajasthan in two contrasting rural palaces

Taj Mahal

Admire the marble magnificence of the Taj Mahal

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Culture
23 Days

India

Kerala Encompassed

Gain a great insight into the variety Kerala has to offer as you travel south to north over three weeks. You’ll have the opportunity to stay in different types and styles of accommodation, ranging from tea bungalows to a plantation mansion, houseboat, treehouse and tents, to name a few.

Spend your days among tea and spice plantations, relaxing in rural settings, spotting wildlife, cruising along the Alleppey backwaters, visiting local markets and getting to know the towns that make Kerala tick. Relax on a remote beach to round off your holiday through ‘God’s Own Country’.

Highlights

Cruise the backwaters

Explore the canals on a houseboat for two nights, watching local life pass by

Birdwatching

Wake up on the banks of the Periyar River, where you’ll have the chance to spot over 120 species of birds

Safaris

Track elephants and tigers in Nagarhole National Park

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view from glenburn penthouse
Culture
17 Days

India

Highlights of East India

Little visited and often overlooked, East India is an incredible place: from the spellbinding contrasts of Kolkata to the sleepy waterways of the Sundarbans, the Buddhist culture of Sikkim and the mighty Himalayas.

This journey will enable you to explore Kolkata in depth, before heading south for a lovely tranquil experience in the Sundarbans National Park. While you’re unlikely to spot one of the park’s many tigers, there is a plethora of wildlife here, and it’s a lovely place to spend a few days.

Then it’s back up to Kolkata for an overnight train deep in the Himalayas. East India is an incredible region: the heart of Buddhist culture in India, a land of monasteries, sleepy hill towns, friendly people and breathtaking views.

Highlights

Kolkata

Explore Kolkata, the former capital of British India and a riot of colour, a hub of Bengali culture and an incredibly vibrant place.

Incredible culture

Discover timeless Buddhist monasteries and a highly distinct Sikkim culture.

Khangchendzonga Mountain

Being inspired by the view of the mighty Khangchendzonga Mountain, the third-highest in the world, soaring above the horizon

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Hutheesing,Jain,Temple,,Consecreted,In,1848,,Is,One,Of,The
Off the Beaten Track
17 Days

India

Gujarat In Depth

Go beyond the usual India routes on this 17-day adventure through Gujarat, a region where ancient civilisations, wildlife sanctuaries and traditional crafts still thrive. From the heritage streets of Ahmedabad to the stark beauty of the Rann of Kutch, this itinerary blends history, wildlife and cultural immersion. You’ll meet master artisans in Bhuj, witness blackbuck deer leaping through the grasslands of Velavadar, and step back in time at World Heritage sites like Patan and Modhera.

 

Highlights

Ahmedabad

Explore an array of astounding world heritage sights in Ahmedabad and beyond 

Wildlife spotting

Spot impressive birds and wildlife like the Asiatic lion and blackbuck deer in Velavadar, Sasan Gir Park and the otherworldly Rann of Kutch  

Artisan heritage

Contribute towards the preservation of an array of special traditional arts and crafts by visiting the artisan villages around Bhuj 

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Himalayas
Culture
15 Days

India

The Golden Triangle & The Himalayas

This is a proper adventure, taking in the riches of Rajasthan before venturing deep into the Himalayas to explore the off-the-beaten-track Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. After tiger-spotting in Corbett, escape to the unspoiled Kumaon region in Uttarakhand. Here, colonial-era hill stations and quiet Himalayan villages offer a slower pace and extraordinary views,  far from the tourist trail.

 

Highlights

Iconic sights

Seeing the best of Rajasthan (think the Taj, tigers and terrific forts, palaces and handicrafts)

Unique accommodation

Staying in haveli hotels and warm and welcoming luxury homestays with fascinating histories

Himalayan views

Ending the holiday on a (literal) high in the Himalayas, venturing into the Kumaon region that most tourists miss

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Varanasi Ganges river ghat with ancient city architecture as viewed from a boat on the river at sunset.
Culture
14 Days

India

East to West: Highlights of the Gangetic Plain

This holiday is for travellers with an adventurous spirit who like to get away from the tourist trail; people who have a desire to explore eclectic, busy and ever-evolving Indian cities, but who also want to contrast immersive city life with some unique, rural experiences.

Take time to delve into Kolkata and Varanasi with our signature experiences in each. You’ll journey by car, train and minimal internal flights so that you can experience the beautiful rural life and landscape of the Gangetic Plain as you move around.  You’ll spend four days exploring northern Madhya Pradesh and three days in a remote valley of Uttar Pradesh; allowing completely different rural and wildlife experiences in each.

 

Highlights

Lunch with an art collector

Taking lunch with an art collector in his home in Kolkata

Sunrise at the River Ganges

Watching the sunrise from your private boat on the River Ganges

Chambal Valley

Experiencing life in remote hamlets of the Chambal Valley

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birdlife of sri lanka
Wildlife
14 Days

India

Birds of South India

Discover lesser-visited but beautiful areas of Southern India during this two week holiday. There is a particular focus on the region’s abundant birdlife, exceptional for casual and serious aficionados. Visit several sanctuaries and travel through the lush western ghats, known as a treasure house of endemic species, as well as the strictly protected wildlife of Bandipur National Park.

 

Highlights

Rangananthittu Bird Sanctuary

End your journey with a visit to the Rangananthittu Bird Sanctuary, home to some 170 exquisite bird species

Valparai

Explore Valparai’s remote landscapes through forest treks in an area full of wildlife, including some of the most endangered varieties of hornbills

Bandipur National Park

Spot elusive big game on sunrise and sunset safaris in Bandipur National Park

 

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Wildlife
17 Days

India

The Birdlife of North India

This two-week itinerary takes you around North India to see for yourself the wide variety of bird species and animals that call these rugged, scenic landscapes home. Keen birders and the more intrepid travellers will particularly enjoy this holiday, with plenty of opportunities for birdwatching, hiking and safaris through national parks, along rivers and in sanctuaries.

 

Highlights

Corbett National Park

Staying deep in the heart of Corbett National Park in a forest lodge, an incredible setting for wildlife sightings

Chambal River

Cruising along the Chambal river on safari with a naturalist guide, providing expert information about the birds and animals you spot

Birding throughout

Plenty of birding opportunities in varying locations, from national parks to bird sanctuaries and a conservation reserve

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Off the Beaten Track
17 Days

India

A Journey through Madhya Pradesh

Prepare to be wowed by incredible history, architecture, and wildlife, before finishing the holiday on the sacred Narmada river at Maheshwar.

Highlights

Alternative Delhi

Explore alternative Delhi with a walk of the old town led by a former street kid turned expert guide

Satpura National Park

Get up close and personal to the wildlife in Satpura National Park on foot, by jeep and even on a boat

Maheshwar

Relax in one India’s most beautiful and most off-the-beaten-track fort hotels in Maheshwar, one of the most magical towns in India

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Rajasthan
Culture
15 Days

India

Classic Rajasthan with the Taj Mahal

Our ‘Classic Rajasthan with the Taj’ itinerary idea takes in all the must-see sites of India’s Golden Triangle and beyond, such as Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur. You’ll also experience a change of pace and a glimpse at an older, more rural Rajasthan with its impossibly romantic desert forts, dramatic scenery and wildlife.

We’ve suggested mixing opulent city hotels, perfect for escaping the clamour outside, with peacefully charming but quirky heritage properties in converted Rajput residences, used for entertaining visitors from time immemorial.

 

Highlights

Iconic sights

Marvel at the timeless magnificence of the Taj Mahal, the disorderliness of Delhi and colourful Jaipur

Fort Barli

Escape the madness into the gorgeous surrounds of Fort Barli and the Rajasthani countryside

Lake Pichola

Stay on the banks of Lake Pichola in romantic and laid-back Udaipur

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15 Days

Bhutan

India's Golden Triangle & Bhutan’s Natural Beauty

Over two weeks, you will venture from the bustling, colourful cities and historical sights of India’s Rajasthan to the peaceful towns and scenic valleys of Bhutan. You’ll really get a feel for the contrasting cultures, pace of life and varied landscapes as your local guides take you off the beaten track and reveal the stories and secrets of each location to you.

In India’s Golden Triangle, you will enjoy the must-see highlights, both cultural and architectural, before flying to Bhutan to immerse yourself in the well-preserved culture and pristine natural beauty across the country. Along the way, we have suggested some charming and comfortable accommodation options in great locations and you’ll have time each day to relax at your hotel.

Highlights

Iconic India

Explore India’s Golden Triangle, including the Taj Mahal, Jaipur’s palaces, and the vibrant streets of Delhi.

Magical Bhutan

Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s serene landscapes, from Punakha’s dzongs to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

Cracking views

Witness breathtaking Himalayan views from scenic passes like Dochula and trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

In Our Travellers’ Words

Immersive India

A relaxed yet comprehensive introduction to India's many different shades, customs, history, beliefs, cuisine and societal strata. Meeting people from all walks of life and trying different foods. A well-thought-out tour offering a range of environments all backed up by fabulous hotels and supportive team.
Charles
24 October 2024

India, exceeded all expectations

A trip taking in the Golden Triangle... rest and relaxation at Ramathra Fort and a beach resort in Kerala. Great planning... everything went perfectly and we felt we experienced all aspects of India.
Ian
28 February 2025

Tigers and the Himalayas

We had a bespoke tour to Jim Corbett park and then up to Nainital and Binsar. The travel arrangements were excellent, and having the same driver throughout made it so much easier. Lola at ETG came up with a great itinerary for us.
Debra
29 March 2025

Why India?

Colourful, complex, and captivating, India rewards the curious traveller in spades.

  • Time Travel through Heritage Sites: Step into mighty forts, restored palaces and old cities that carry the wonder (and weight) of past empires.
  • Wondrous Wildlife: Track tigers in Ranthambore and beyond (our India specialists know the quieter, lesser-known parks that others overlook), spot leopards in Jawai or birdwatch in Kerala’s reserves. Experience India’s wild side without the crowds.
  • Ever-Changing Landscapes: From the Himalayas’ towering peaks to Rajasthan’s sun-baked deserts, Madhya Pradesh’s dense forests to Kerala’s glassy backwaters, revel in India’s natural drama.
  • Contrasting Cuisine: Taste legendary street snacks from trusted stalls, home-cooked regional dishes, and refined tasting menus with our insider tips.
  • Genuine Hospitality: Chats over chai, unexpected invitations to weddings, and hosts who treat you like family. Magical moments, made possible through our local connections.

Explore Experiences in India

Immersive experiences sit at the heart of ETG. Each one is specially designed to confound preconceptions and share magical, memorable, and truly exceptional moments.

Ladakh, Northern India, India

Balti Cuisine Experience in Baltistan

Ladakh, Northern India, India

Farm-to-Table Picnic in Nubra Valley

Ladakh, Northern India, India

Dining with the King at Yabgo Palace

Ladakh, Northern India, India

Turtuk Village & Balti Heritage Museum

Ladakh, Northern India, India

Weaving Workshop in Baltistan

Ladakh, Northern India, India

Tracking Himalayan Brown Bears & Snow Leopards

India

Corbett National Park Wildlife Safari

Gujarat

Gir Wildlife Safari

Munnar, Kerala

A Day in Munnar's Tea Lands

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Balti Cuisine Experience in Baltistan

Go on a culinary adventure in the remote Baltistan region, where the flavours of Balti cuisine are as unique and rich as the culture itself.

Dish by dish, you’ll get a feel for the region’s history. Shaped by Tibetan and Central Asian influences, Balti cooking has a character all its own. As Sara from ETG put it: “It’s like nothing I’ve ever tasted before.”

Meals typically feature fresh vegetables, lovely apricots and nuts, and hearty dishes like stews and hand-rolled breads.

You might eat in an orchard surrounded by trees or beside a rushing river, with the mountains in view — a peaceful setting that adds to the experience.

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Farm-to-Table Picnic in Nubra Valley

Get a real taste of life in Nubra via this wonderful farm-to-table experience, led by the people who live and farm in the Nubra Valley.

You’ll spend time in their fields, learn how they grow food in tough conditions, and share a delicious meal made from what they’ve produced.

Set against greenery, sand dunes and snow-capped peaks, it’s every bit as atmospheric as it sounds.

As ETG’s Sara put it: “It’s humbling to see how resilient these farmers are, surviving in such an unforgiving environment — and still producing some of the tastiest food I’ve ever had.”

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Dining with the King at Yabgo Palace

Step into Yabgo Palace, in the village of Turtuk — once part of Pakistan, now one of the northernmost towns in India — for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the King of Baltistan.

You’ll be welcomed into his centuries-old wooden residence and invited to sit down to a traditional Balti meal. Then, shoes off, you’ll step into the throne room, where the king shares his heritage and reflections on the history of the Baltistan kingdom.

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Turtuk Village & Balti Heritage Museum

If you’ll allow us the cliché, Turtuk really is like stepping back in time.

One of the northernmost villages in India, it carries the weight of a unique cultural history shaped by Tibet, Pakistan, and Ladakh. The old ways of life still thrive here.

The village’s rich apple orchards and traditional farming methods make it the perfect spot to experience a side of Ladakh that few get to see.

A visit to the Balti Heritage Museum offers insight into the stories of this fascinating region. As Sara from ETG describes it, it’s “one of the most unexpected, magical places I’ve ever visited”.

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Weaving Workshop in Baltistan

Enter the world of ancient craftsmanship with a traditional weaving workshop in Baltistan.

Ladakh’s textile heritage runs deep, and this experience allows you to connect with some of the people who’ve kept it alive for generations, revealing the cultural significance of their art. The weavers of Baltistan are masters of their craft, with designs that tell stories passed down through generations.

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Ladakh

Tracking Himalayan Brown Bears & Snow Leopards

Set off on a one-of-a-kind wildlife adventure, looking out for the majestic snow leopard and elusive Himalayan brown bear in the high-altitude wilds of Ladakh.

These animals roam across some of the most striking, rugged landscapes in the world. As Sara at ETG vividly described, “It felt like stepping into a wildlife documentary as we followed expert trackers through pristine wilderness in search of these incredible creatures.”

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Uttarakhand, India

Corbett National Park Wildlife Safari

Corbett National Park, once the nobility’s favoured northern hunting ground, is nestled between the Himalayan foothills and the ancient Shivalik Hills, and was the first reserve to be established in 1936 as a national park. It is a green and lush region which extends over 1,300sq km, and is made up of grassland and forests. The Ramganga River bisects the forest and forms a reservoir at its centre. The park protects wild elephants, tigers and sloth bears, nearly 600 domestic and transitory birds, and remarkably rare reptiles.

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Gujarat, India

Gir Wildlife Safari

Set off on a captivating safari into the Gir National Park, a sanctuary that has evolved into the last bastion for the endangered Asiatic lion since its establishment in 1965. The heart of the park, a 259-sq-km core area declared a national park in 1975, serves as a haven for these majestic creatures and has a remarkable success story of lion conservation – numbers surged from less than 200 in the late 1960s to an impressive 674 in the 2020 census.

The park’s dense forests and rolling hills create a picturesque backdrop for an immersive safari experience. Traverse the undisturbed landscapes, keeping watch for the revered Asiatic lions and a diverse range of wildlife, including chital deer, four-horned antelopes, gazelles, crocodiles, and the elusive leopard. The park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts with over 300 species of endemic and migratory birds.

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Kerala, India

A Day in Munnar's Tea Lands

An opportunity today for you to explore the picture perfect tea plantations that swathe the sloping hills of the Western Ghats. As you walk along the paths that separate the tea plants, past tea pickers in colourful saris, you will see the importance of tea in this area as a cash crop, a way of earning a living and a cultural institution. As well as tea, plenty of coffee, pepper and cardamom can be seen growing in this lush and fertile area. You will also have the chance to visit the local markets where the herbs, spices and tea are traded and sold. Always a colourful and sometimes a raucous affair, local markets in this part of India are fantastic places to mingle with the locals. You may also like to visit the local tea museum in Munnar.

Meet Our Experts

“I always say: go slow. India’s doesn’t shine when you’re rushing from landmark to landmark – it’s best when you sink into your surroundings. Stick to fewer places and you’ll find the real magic in the everyday.”

Sara
India Specialist

Explore Our Hotels & Havelis in India

Wherever you go, and whatever you do, at the end of every day you can always be sure of a comfortable rest. Every location on our list of hotels is handpicked, and in its own way, shares the history, the hospitality, and the soul of India. Below are some examples of the different hotels we use — they’ll live long in your memory.

A pool pavilion at Amanbagh hotel

India - Ultimate

Amanbagh

Pool at Aramness Safari Lodge

Gujarat - Luxury

Aramness Safari Lodge

Communal space at Bagh Van

India - Deluxe

Bagh Van, Pench Tiger Reserve

Agra - Superior

Trident Agra

East & North East India - Deluxe

The Oberoi Grand

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A pool pavilion at Amanbagh hotel

Rajasthan, India

Amanbagh

Enclosed within high stone walls and surrounded by the rugged Aravalli hills, Amanbagh feels like a hidden garden in the desert. Located in Rajasthan’s Alwar region, just two hours from Jaipur, this serene retreat offers a refined pause between India’s busier cities.

Highlights

Highlights

Desert serenity,

Private courtyards

 

Best for

Couples

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Pool at Aramness Safari Lodge

Gujarat, India

Aramness Safari Lodge

Set on the edge of Gir National Park, Aramness Safari Lodge is a world-class wildlife retreat offering luxury in the heart of Gujarat’s teak forests. Surrounded by lions, leopards, and over 300 species of birds, the lodge provides an extraordinary window into one of India’s richest ecosystems

Highlights

Highlights

Teak forest setting,

Private plunge pools

Best for

Families,

Couples,

 

 

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Communal space at Bagh Van

Madhya Pradesh, India

Bagh Van, Pench Tiger Reserve

Set beside the wild teak and sal forests of Pench, Bagh Van Jungle Lodge captures the magic of Kipling’s jungle in a luxurious and intimate setting. Named after the Hindi word for “tiger forest”, the lodge blends classic safari style with open courtyards, shaded terraces, and the freedom to spot wildlife right from your doorstep

Highlights

Highlights

Wildlife-rich setting,

Elegant forest suites

Best for

Couples,

Solos

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Uttar Pradesh, India

Trident Agra

Just a few minutes’ drive from the Taj Mahal, Trident Agra offers a functional and reliable stay with good facilities and generous green space. Though not the most characterful option in town, it’s a practical choice for families or anyone after a comfortable overnight base.

Highlights

Highlights

Stone’s throw from the Taj Mahal,

Refreshing pool

Best for

Families,

Couples

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Kolkata, India

The Oberoi Grand

A Colonial-era landmark in the heart of Kolkata, The Oberoi Grand combines stately charm with comfort, providing a welcome sanctuary from the city’s chaos. Set on Chowringhee Road, the hotel offers elegant interiors, excellent service, and a central location perfect for exploring Kolkata’s cultural highlights.

Highlights

Highlights

Peaceful courtyard,

Heritage charm,

Iconic bar with live jazz

Best for

Couples,

Solos,

Culture seekers

Important FAQs about India

At ETG, we’re all about quality, not quantity India. Our immersive holidays, with just the right touch of adventure, are designed around meaningful moments — an early-morning exchange at the fish market, a spontaneous street-side “HOWZAT!”, a shared grin over something sizzling at a food stall.

There’s far more to India than a checklist of big-ticket sights.

Because let’s be honest: “see-it-all” India doesn’t exist. Not in one trip. Possibly not in ten. Despite what some tour operators might promise, the country’s simply too vast, too vibrant, too endlessly fascinating to rush.

So we take it slow. We go deeper. We create holidays that prioritise genuine connection, fresh perspective and rich experiences with the people and places that make India what it is.

Hand-made holidays of a lifetime — built from the ground up, and shaped entirely around you.

The best time to visit India depends on the region:

October to March is ideal for most of the country, with cooler, dry weather that’s perfect for exploring Rajasthan, Delhi, and the north.

April to June is hot but good for the Himalayan regions.

June to September is monsoon season, bringing vibrant greenery to Kerala and southern India, though travel can be trickier.

For a classic north India experience – Rajasthan, the Golden Triangle, and cultural highlights – November to February offers the most comfortable conditions.

Every ETG holiday to India is carefully designed to be seamless, immersive, and stress-free. Your journey typically includes international flights (if requested), guide throughout and accommodation in hand-picked, characterful hotels.

You’ll enjoy incredible, immersive experiences unique to you, all planned by dedicated India specialists, with the added reassurance of 24/7 in-country support from our local team.