India, known as the land of infinite variety, has virtually infinite appeal as a holiday destination. From the mountains of the north, to the western deserts of Rajasthan, to the beaches and swaying palms of the south, it embraces a huge range of cultures, landscapes, cuisines and thrilling adventures. A fascinating tour of the highlights is best finished off by a relaxing spell on an unspoiled beach.
In a nutshell
This is a country that will keep you coming back again and again, whether it's to see more of the magnificent temples, to spend longer by the sea or to catch another sight of a proud tiger in its natural habitat. If you're interested in culture and heritage, you couldn't choose a better destination. Stunning forts and palaces will keep you spellbound, while the people you meet in towns and villages bring their culture to life for you. The country's varied wildlife offers spectacular sights of a rather different, but no less thrilling, kind - camels, tigers and elephants will keep you gasping. Eating out is an experience in itself, whether you're tucking into fish fresh from the sea or trying local specialities in a traditional restaurant. And you won?t come home empty-handed - markets, shops and boutiques are full of bargains to fill your suitcase. After all the excitement, a pristine beach will be just the ticket!
Sightseeing ideas
Touring in India
Our 3 escorted private tours take you to the best that Northern India has to offer. The Golden Triangle takes in the incomparable Taj Mahal and the great city of Jaipur, capital of Rajasthan. On the Tigers of Corbett you have a chance to meet India's exotic wildlife, the real Jungle Book! Whilst our Highlights of India tour takes you from Delhi to Mumbai via the Taj Mahal, the tigers of Ranthambore, Jaipur and Udaipur. You even get a chance to tour the Bollywood film studios. In addition to the north, we take to the backwaters of Kerala in the south, with the chance to overnight on a houseboat.
Extras to Note - there are camera charges at most sites and monuments; these charges are not included and must be paid locally. Sometimes accommodation in India gets heavily booked up and at times we may have to substitute your accommodation from the one named in the brochure. You will be accompanied by an English-speaking driver guide. All tours operate with a min of 2 passengers.
Getting there
Flight Details - Virgin Atlantic flights to Delhi and Mumbai depart daily from London Heathrow. Emirates flights to Cochin depart daily from London Heathrow, Gatwick or Manchester (via Dubai with a change of aircraft).
Flying Time - Approx 8 hours 30 min to Delhi Approx 9 hours to Mumbai Approx 11 hours to Cochin, plus a stop in Dubai
Flight Upgrades - Premium Economy is available from £239 per person each way. Upper Class is available from £625 supplement per person each way with Virgin Atlantic.
Time Difference - GMT +5 hours
Currency - Rupee (Rs)
Visa - British citizens require a visa.
Additional info
Culture
India's cultural riches know no bounds. Among the people themselves, from city snake-charmers to village-shop owners, there are some fascinating characters. Festivals, held in the streets and in stunning temples, add even more colour. In Delhi and Mumbai the pace of life is fast - enjoy the bustle of cities both modern and ancient. Goa has its own share of history and heritage, but life here is more laid-back.
Wildlife
From the birds that soar above the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, the elephants that live and work in the dense jungles of the south and the camels that take visitors across Rajasthan's deserts, India is home to some amazing animals. For a truly thrilling wildlife experience, sanctuaries and national parks such as Corbett and Ranthambore, offer the chance to catch a breathtaking glimpse of tigers in the wild.
Beaches
With miles of shimmering sands fringed by graceful coconut palms, frothy waves breaking over the rocks, brilliant blue skies and dramatic sunsets, India's beaches - especially those along the western Konkan and Malabar coasts - are something like paradise on earth. You're spoilt for choice in Goa, but some of the best spots are north of Panjim, the lively state capital, in Calangute, Baga and Anjuna.
Cuisine
Indian food is more than just 'curry'. Richer, meatier dishes in the north are replaced in the south by lighter, subtly spiced vegetarian food. In coastal areas, fresh fish is a speciality, and spicy pork is traditional in Goa. South India's thali is a pick 'n' mix of vegetarian dishes, rice and chapattis, sometimes served on a plantain leaf. More will keep coming until you tell the waiter to stop.
Forts and Palaces
A highlight of any trip to India is seeing its spectacular forts and palaces. There's the famously beautiful monument to love, the Taj Mahal, and in Jaipur you can ride an elephant up to the Amber Fort. In Jodhpur, there are some amazing fortresses, and in Udaipur is the Lake Palace of Octopussy fame. At many of these sights you will find expert local guides who will help you get even more out of your visit.
Shopping
You won't have any trouble finding souvenirs in India! Bustling markets, street stalls and colourful shops fill every town and city. A stroll through the lively Crawford Market in Mumbai or Delhi's Pahar Ganj district is unmissable. Bargaining is all part of the fun - never accept the first price. But remember that many stallholders survive on these sales, so it doesn't matter if you pay a little over the odds.
Weather and climate
