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Himalayas
Culture
15 Days India Itineraries

The Golden Triangle & The Himalayas

Most suited for
Couples, Families
Ideal time to visit
December- May

Trip Highlights

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

courtyard at samode haveli

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

Beautiful view of the Himalaya mountain range in Kasardevi Almora Uttarakhand India

Ending the holiday on a (literal) high in the Himalayas

The Golden Triangle & the Himalayas

As with all our holidays, this itinerary is just a starting point. We will create a bespoke package which will be completely unique for you. 

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Day 1

Your adventure begins in Delhi

Fly to Delhi. On arrival, dive into an evening street food tour of Old Delhi, navigating the narrow lanes by cycle rickshaw. Enjoy jalebis, paratha flatbreads, and creamy phirni. Our local guide will take you behind the scenes to meet some chefs who’ve been creating fabulous food here for generations.

The next day, there is time to explore New Delhi with your guide by car, tuk-tuk, and on foot. Visit Gandhi’s assassination site, the Dhobi Walas laundry, and finish at United Coffee House. In the afternoon, join a tour led by the Salaam Baalak Trust to meet and hear stories from street children, an enlightening and memorable experience.

Days 3 - 5

Jaipur

You’ll have plenty of time in Jaipur to enjoy your palatial hotel and dig into some delicious local food experiences. We recommend including a walking tour with a local guide through the old city’s trading communities. This journey into the rich tapestry of life, craftsmanship, and architecture defines this vibrant area. The historic chowkri holds a special connection to the Modi trader communities. Full of havelis, temples, public edifices, and artisanal hubs, it stands as a distinctive embodiment of the city’s living heritage. The craftwork here in Jaipur is world-class.

courtyard pool at samode haveli
Day 6

Agra and the Taj Mahal

You won’t want to leave Jaipur without visiting Amber Fort. Start at Jaigarh Fort for a scenic view; admire the mix of Hindu and Mughal architecture against a backdrop of rugged hills and the fairytale terraces and ramparts reflected in Maota Lake.

It’s then a 20-minute walk to the fort itself: close up, marvel at the striking red sandstone and marble exterior, and explore the carvings, colourful murals, and mirrors that adorn the inside. Explore Agra Fort’s palatial mosques and palaces. After lunch, visit the iconic Taj Mahal, marvelling at its intricate paintings, calligraphy, and marble work. Spend time absorbing the beauty of this magnificent site.

Beautiful scenery of Taj Mahal and a body of water.
Day 7

Uchagaon

Break up the journey with an overnight at the quirky Fort Uchagaon. Enjoy a village walk to discover local crafts and visit the vibrant ghats on the Ganges riverbank.

Days 8 - 9

Corbett National Park

Visit Corbett National Park, renowned for its lush landscapes and wildlife. Enjoy two thrilling game drives, where you may spot tigers, elephants and birdlife in the park’s diverse ecosystem. We suggest including two safari drives to maximise your chances of catching sight of a tiger.

tiger running for hunting prey at dhikala zone of jim corbett national park or tiger reserve, uttarakhand, india
Days 10 - 11

Nainital

Transfer to the colonial-era hill station of Nainital. Participate in informal walks and activities, including a culinary experience, a market visit, and an early morning guided walk to a local viewpoint. Take a historical walk or enjoy bird watching. Golf is also an option with advance notice.

Days 12 - 14

Binsar National Park

Travel from Nainital to Binsar via Almora. Explore Almora with a local guide, visiting Golu Devta Temple, Almora Fort, and the State Museum.

After lunch, travel to Nine Furlongs in Binsar National Park, enjoying stunning views of the Himalayas. Walk or trek as much or as little as you like, from gentle strolls to full-day treks. This region has everything you’ll want for a good walk, and the scenery, views, and gentle pace of life in the villages will be something you’ll remember for a long time. Slightly further afield, you can visit the famous temple at Kasar Devi, where countless spiritual luminaries have meditated, or the Neem Karoli Baba Ashram at Kainchi Dham and experience the famous magnetic field, which is said to give this region its spiritual force. We recommend stopping at Lakhudivar Caves to see the Mesolithic cave paintings there.

nine furlongs exterior
Day 15

Fly home

Take a train to Delhi from Kathgodam. Stay overnight in Delhi before waving goodbye and boarding your flight home.

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

Excellent850 Reviews

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What’s included:

With ETG, what’s included goes well beyond the basics. From the moment your trip begins to your final farewell, the essentials are already taken care of, leaving you free to immerse, explore and enjoy without the hassle of hidden extras.

Here’s what comes as standard in all of our holidays:

All flights (unless you’ve booked your own!)
Expert guides and drivers
All accommodation
Many meals and snacks
Immersive experiences throughout
All regional transfers
Tips
24/7 In-Country support
Personal travel consultant throughout

Pricing:

As every holiday is bespoke, prices vary depending on destination, flights, hotel choices, inclusions and travel dates. We aim to include as much as possible upfront, so you know exactly where you are. As an approximate guide:

Bespoke Holidays £4,500 - £8,500pp
Bespoke Luxury Holidays £8,500 - £14,500pp
Bespoke Family Holidays from £4,000 - £7,500pp

Meet Our India Experts

With over a decade of experience, Sara knows how to blend India’s vibrant energy with luxurious, personalised touches. Her itineraries balance historic cities, serene countryside retreats, and cultural experiences that stay with you forever.

“This suggested itinerary is ideal for those who want a real sense of India, from the grandeur of Rajasthan’s palaces to the wild beauty of the Himalayan foothills. We have designed it for curious travellers who love mixing honeypot sights with hidden gems.

Sara
Regional Expert

Explore Our Hotels & Villas

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 the destination. Below are some examples of the different hotels we use.

India - Homestay

Abbotsford Heritage Homestay

elephants at jim's jungle retreat

India - Superior

Jim's Jungle Retreat

nine furlongs exterior

India - Superior

Nine Furlongs

pool at samode haveli

India - Superior

Samode Haveli

Agra - Superior

Trident Agra

entrance to the imperial

Delhi - Luxury

The Imperial New Delhi

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Uttarakhand, India

Abbotsford Heritage Homestay

Perched in the Kumaon Hills of Uttarakhand, Abbotsford Heritage Homestay offers a slice of colonial-era mountain life. Built in 1876 and still family-owned, the property exudes warmth, character, and literary charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Charm & character

Best for

Couples

 

 

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elephants at jim's jungle retreat

Uttarakhand, India

Jim's Jungle Retreat

Set on the edge of Corbett National Park, Jim’s Jungle Retreat is a thoughtfully designed wildlife lodge built in traditional Gujar style. Surrounded by sal forests and grasslands, it’s an immersive base for safaris and nature-based adventures in Uttarakhand.

Highlights

Highlights

Wildlife safaris,

Jungle sleepouts,

Forest-view lodges

Best for

Families,

Couples,

Solos

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nine furlongs exterior

Uttarakhand, India

Nine Furlongs

Perched high in the Himalayan foothills of Binsar National Park, Nine Furlongs is an intimate mountain hideaway with a storied past. Reached by a short forest trail or rugged drive, the property rewards intrepid travellers with remarkable views of the Nanda Devi range and an atmosphere of serene detachment. This is a place to soak up nature, history and horizon-stretching skies.

Highlights

Highlights

Epic Himalayan views,

Characterful cottages

Best for

Adventurers,

Couples,

Solos

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pool at samode haveli

Rajasthan, India

Samode Haveli

A tranquil hideaway in the heart of Jaipur, Samode Haveli is a charming heritage hotel set in a former nobleman’s residence. Restored in the Indo-Saracenic style, the property features secluded courtyards, shady verandas, and an original elephant ramp built for a royal wedding—offering a romantic sense of old-world grandeur.

Highlights

Highlights

Traditional Indo-Saracenic design,

Central location,

Peaceful courtyards

Best for

Couples,

Families,

Culture Seekers

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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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entrance to the imperial

Delhi, India

The Imperial New Delhi

Right in the heart of Connaught Place, The Imperial is one of Delhi’s most iconic hotels: a grand, colonial-era landmark full of stories. Its rich history, vibrant public spaces, and striking heritage architecture offer guests a classic yet energetic experience in India’s capital.

Highlights

Highlights

Colonial heritage,

Central Delhi location,

Fine dining

Best for

Couples,

Solos,

Culture Seekers

Experiences in India

Crafting bespoke packages is the heart of what we do. Each holiday is specially designed to confound preconceptions and share magical, memorable, and truly exceptional experiences.

India

Corbett National Park Wildlife Safari

Old Delhi (4)

Delhi

Old Delhi Street Food Tour

Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

Craft & Heritage Walk of Old Jaipur

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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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Old Delhi (4)

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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Rajasthan, India

Craft & Heritage Walk of Old Jaipur

Although most tourists visit Jaipur to view its incredible forts and palaces, there are many visitors who come to purchase some of the astonishing range of handicrafts for which the city is famous for producing.

On our exclusive and privately guided walking tour, explore the fascinating Old Quarter, where you will find most of the city’s master tradespeople. There is an incredible energy around this part of Jaipur as the locals and the incoming buyers take their shopping here extremely seriously. Walking around you will notice Indians who have been coming from far and wide to buy everything they need for their extravagant weddings.

Important FAQs about India

India is a place of contrasts and deep cultural richness, and travelling here with ETG ensures you experience it in a way that is authentic, seamless, and meaningful.

We craft holidays that go far beyond the typical tourist trail: think hand-picked boutique hotels, private guides with expert local knowledge, and immersive experiences that give you genuine insight into India’s diverse traditions and landscapes. From the calm of rural Rajasthan to the chaotic charm of Delhi, our holidays are designed to be both inspiring and stress-free, with 24/7 in-country support so you can focus on the magic of the moment.

India is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on the region and your interests. For most of northern India, the cooler, drier months from October to March are ideal for exploring cultural sites, cities, and wildlife reserves. The southern states, such as Kerala and Tamil Nadu, are also wonderful during these months, while the Himalayan regions are best visited in the warmer months from April to June. If you’re looking for fewer crowds, travelling in the shoulder seasons—September or April—can offer a great balance of pleasant weather and quieter

 

Every ETG holiday to India is designed to feel seamless, immersive and stress free. We’ll arrange international flights (if you’d like us to), your drivers and guides, and stays in characterful hotels we know and trust.

You’ll experience India in a way that’s completely bespoke to you – from quiet moments to big adventures – all planned by our India specialists. And while you’re away, our local team is on hand 24/7, so you’ll always feel well looked after.