Witness breathtaking Himalayan views from scenic passes like Dochula and trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
India is a world in one country. A wonder to behold. Exhilarating, energising, humbling and unforgettable.
At Experience Travel Group, we don’t believe in off-the-shelf holidays. We design bespoke packages that break away from the norm. Whether you want to veer off the beaten track as you explore the Golden Triangle to spot wildlife in the Chambal Valley, or drift along Kerala’s quieter backwaters and stay in a gorgeous coastal retreat, every element is curated around your interests and style.
Our immersive approach opens doors to real people and real places, so you’ll experience the India that few tourists see. This includes little luxuries, like being welcomed into a heritage fort by down-to-earth royalty. Every trip we design is crafted to leave both you and the places you visit better for the experience.
All Experience Travel Group holidays are designed for delight, not decision fatigue. Hand over the planning admin to our trusty Travel Team who’ll curate your own bespoke package.
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…
Showing 11 Featured Itineraries
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Agra
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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Alleppey
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. Finish on a remote beach to round off your journey through ‘God’s Own Country’.
Highlights
Cruise the backwaters
Get a real feel for life on the backwaters as you cruise through the canals on a houseboat for two nights, watching local life pass by
Birdwatching
Wake up on the banks of the river Periyar where you’ll have the chance to spot over 120 species of birds
Safaris
Track elephants and tigers on safaris and boat rides through the Nagarhole National Park
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Darjeeling
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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Gujarat
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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Agra
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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Delhi
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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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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Delhi
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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Delhi
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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Agra
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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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
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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.
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.
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.
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.
Different types of
India holidays
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.
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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.
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Kolkata, India
The Kolkata City Experience
On this tour you will start with a visit to Kolkata’s most famous monument, the Victoria Memorial, which is set in beautiful grounds. You’ll then take a walking tour of the vibrant and diverse city of Kolkata, starting at BBD Bagh, formerly known as Dalhousie Square. Much of Kolkata’s finest colonial architecture is in the BBD Bagh area, which houses the secretariat of the state and is the central business hub of the city.
Then visit the Writer’s Building, the General Post Office, St John’s Church and several other Raj-era buildings. Next, drive north to visit a traditional bazaar in “Black Town”, as well as the potter’s colony of Kumartuli. Lunch will be at a fantastic local restaurant, after which you will take a short journey on the historical tram, which is the oldest operating electric tram in Asia, running since 1902. The carriages are basic and you can stay on for as little or as long as you like.
Kolkata is a town to experience, rather than just tick off the sites.
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Varanasi, India
Early Morning Ganges Boat Ride
Early this morning take sunrise boat excursion on the holy River Ganges. At dawn when it is full of pilgrims it’s an amazing place to witness the living traditions of one of the world’s oldest and most important religions. See Varanasi come alive along the banks of the river. See people bathing in the holy water and worshiping the rising sun. Witness the conclusion of life at the riverbank holy cremation grounds. It is believed, if you die in Varanasi, you go straight to heaven.
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Uttar Pradesh, India
Temples, Ghats & Wildlife in the Chambal Valley
The calm waters of the Chambal River are best explored by boat and a river safari provides a great opportunity to view the wildlife. The Chambal Safari boatmen are exceptionally skilled at manoeuvring as close to the birds and animals as possible without disturbing them, and the trained naturalists who accompany you will provide expert information about everything that you see. Opportunities to go on Crane and blackbuck safaris are also available in this beautiful, remote region.
Alternatively the ancient temple complex at Bateshwar on the river Yamuna, 10 km from the Chambal Safari Lodge, consists of more than a hundred temples dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. The ravines surrounding the temples and river are home to a number of Naga sadhus (snake worshipping ascetics) who have carved out little caves and temples within the mud walls. The local Ghats and aarti ceremonies provide a calmer and quieter experience to that of frenetic Varanasi too.
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Delhi, India
Old Delhi Street Food Tour
Take a street food tour of Old Delhi, negotiating the noisy labyrinthine lanes of Chawri Bazaar and Chandni Chowk by cycle rickshaw. Visit selected food stalls to sample the myriad of dishes on offer such as thick and juicy jalebis; aloo chaat crispy fried potato cutlets dipped in chutneys; and parantha flatbreads generously stuffed with vegetables, spices or even dried fruits. For dessert, try the deliciously creamy phirni which is served in earthenware pots, and end your walk with an exotic fruit-flavoured Kulfi ice cream. This is a wonderful chance not only to experience some true culinary delights but also to go behind the scenes and meet some of the chefs, bakers and families who have been providing fabulous food here for generations.
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Madhya Pradesh, India
Gwalior Fort
This massive fort, 3km in length, has dominated Gwalior since it was built in the 15th century and to this day can be seen from every point in the city.
Long regarded as the most impregnable of central India’s impressive array of Imposing forts, Gwalior Fort was built at a vantage point 100m above the rest of the city and has huge thick sandstone walls, enclosing the palace within.
Emperor Babar who was inspired by this imposing structure described it “the pearl amongst the fortresses of Hind.” To see whether you agree with the great emperor, your local guide will bring the magnificent fort to life, with some telling anecdotes and a cunning route around the fort.
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Madhya Pradesh, India
Satpura National Park Safari
If you enjoy visiting wildlife sanctuaries without the crowds, Satpura National Park, deep in Madhya Pradesh, could be a great option. It’s very much the wildlife connoisseurs choice: access is not easy and there are only a few accommodation options (though they are very good!).
Satpura is the only park in India where a variety of safari options are available to you. In addition to the usual Jeep safari; canoeing and boating safaris are also possible, as are walking safaris through the core area of the park. This, combined with the fact that the park attracts very few other visitors, means that you’ll get a much richer and more immersive wildlife experience.
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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.
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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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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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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
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The Curious Traveller’s Guide to India
This is our experts’ edit of experiences and hotels, plus a detailed breakdown of popular regions and advice.
You’ll receive five emails from us as well as the guide you requested. They will be inspiring, helpful content about this country. You’ll then be added to our weekly newsletter list, but you can always unsubscribe using the link in any of our emails.
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.