India holidays

See the iconic Taj Mahal, a world-famous monument to Mughal Emperor Shahjahan's love for his late wife Queen Mumtaz Mahal. This magnificent monument's architecture and garden design, painting, and calligraphy embody the wealth and luxury of Mughal art. You'll also discover Agra Fort, a spectacular citadel with marble palaces, ornate alcoves and terrace pavilions.

Depart early on board the Shatabdi Express train from Delhi (2 hours). Upon arrival in Agra, travel out of the city to explore the fascinating city of Fatehpur Sikri, a ghost city built from scratch yet abandoned after only 14 years of occupation. Enjoy lunch before visiting the iconic Taj Mahal followed by a visit to the often overshadowed but no less impressive Agra Fort. Your return journey leaves Agra in the evening ahead of a late arrival back in Delhi.

Journey from Kumarakom to Alleppey for a fascinating walking tour, during which you'll learn about the area's rich history. Your guide will lead you through the Gujarati Quarter, the canal banks and an old wholesale market before you enjoy an authentic Keralan lunch with a local family.

Amber’s fort-palace was built by Raja Man Singh and used by the Rajputs as their stronghold until Sawai Jai Singh II moved to the newly-created Jaipur. You’ll see Diwan I Am (Hall of Public Audience), Kali Temple, Jai Mandir (Hall of Victory), and Sukh Niwas (Hall of Pleasure). Next, tour the city, visiting the Jaipur’s walled City Palace – a former royal residence that occupies one-seventh of the city’s area – and the intricate Jantar Mantar Observatory, the oldest in India.

Take a jeep ride up to the impressive fort, which is perched high on a hill overlooking the city below. Known for its artistic palatial interior in contrast to its foreboding exterior, the fort was built by Raja Man Singh and used by the Rajputs as a stronghold to command the area.

This relaxing ride along beaches, country roads and backwaters takes you through small villages where you’ll see coconut husk being processed and made into coir ropes and mats. After being driven from Kumarakom, you’ll cycle towards Alleppey accompanied by a cycling guide and support car. Then after lunch, it’s back in the saddle as you pedal towards Marari Beach.

See spectacular backwater scenery on this wonderful cruise. As you float along, spot birds and watch local people along the banks of Vembanad Lake. Meandering through canals and backwaters, you'll see ravines and rivulets, virgin landscapes and winding waterways dotted with tiny hamlets and lush paddy fields. You'll also enjoy a traditional Keralan lunch.

Embark on a leisurely houseboat cruise through the quaint backwater villages that punctuate the banks of the canals and rivers criss-crossing Ashtamudi Lake. After this magical journey, you’ll journey to the beautiful coastal town of Varkala for lunch, followed by some sightseeing.

Tour one of India's best-loved cities, nicknamed Garden City thanks to its lush greenery and pleasant climate. You'll visit sights including Lal Bagh Botanical Garden with its famous glass house, the magnificent seat of state Vidhana Soudha, and Nandi Temple, dedicated to the sacred bull.

Discover the desert city of Bikaner, the main trade centre on the ancient silk route in the 1500s. Dating back to 1486 AD, the barren city’s highlight is Junagarh Fort and you’ll visit some of this complex’s beautiful palaces, such as the red sandstone Lal Gar. You’ll also visit the famous Karni Mata, a Hindu temple that was built in honour of the Rat Goddess and today is home to over 20,000 rats! Rats are considered holy animals, and worshippers travel from all over India to pay their respects.

Varanasi is a pilgrim city of great culture and antiquity that famous American writer Mark Twain once said was ‘older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together’. During this boat ride on the holy Ganges you’ll see worshippers at bathing ghats and pass traditional cremation sites.

Go behind the scenes of the vibrant Bollywood film industry on this full day tour. Visit BIG ND Studios and Balaji Studios and watch the magic unfold before your eyes on a live shoot. After the studio tours, you can either try your hand at Bollywood-style dancing or visit the post-production module to see editing and dubbing.

Formerly called Madras, Chennai is India’s fourth largest city and home to over six million people. This trade centre blends modern growth with traditional charm and its diverse culture contrasts British and Tamil-Hindu influences. Visit Fort St George, which boasts a museum with relics of British rule. Continue to Mylapore, a cultural hub that was occupied by the Portuguese in the 1500s, and visit San Thome Church, named after Christian disciple Saint Thomas who lived and taught here in the first century.

Discover Cochin, a cluster of islands located on tranquil Vembanad Lake. Dubbed the Queen of the Arabian Sea, the seaport city boasts a stunning natural harbour where the lake opens out into the sea. Cochin is a melting pot of cultures – the influences of Arabian, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and British traders and explorers linger on. On this intrepid tour see the Jewish synagogue, Dutch palace, Chinese fishing nets and other examples of European and Asian architecture which blend seamlessly to create a wonderfully traditional city.

Your evening begins with a greeting and welcome drink at the home of a local family, before moving to the kitchen for an interactive demonstration of the ingredients and techniques used in preparing a traditional dinner. You can then sit down to enjoy your delicious feast.

Savour mouth-watering platters of authentic Kashmiri cuisine and street food classics at renowned Indian restaurant Chor Bizarre, which also has a branch in London's prestigious Mayfair. Enjoy your delicious meal in a setting festooned with Indian bric-a-brac and featuring an intoxicating ambience and sublime old-world service.

Indulge in an authentic feast at award-winning restaurant Khyber, where you'll be served a delicious set menu dinner. With its nostalgic atmosphere, old oil lanterns and frost-weathered woodwork, this elegant eatery perfectly combines India's rich heritage with modern comforts for an unforgettable eveming. Dine on exotic delicacies prepared with fresh, fragrant ingredients to the soft music of thumris and ghazals.

Travelling to a local home, your evening will begin with a greeting and welcome drink with the family before joining your host in the kitchen. After an interactive demonstration of the ingredients and techniques used to prepare a delicious dinner, you'll sit down to enjoy a feast of local flavours.

Elephants are treasured by the people of Kerala. On this fascinating tour, journey to the village of Paravoor to visit an elephant camp, where you’ll have the chance to feed, bathe and ride these majestic creatures – a truly magical experience. After lunching in Varkala, you’ll take in the rich artistry of Janardhana Temple and the breathtaking Papanasham Beach, both steeped in legend.

Discover Fatehpur Sikri, a magnificent fortified ghost city built by Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th Century to honour the Sufi saint Sheikh Salim. Abandoned soon after its construction when local wells went dry, the wonderfully preserved city has remained much in its original condition. See Hindu and Persian architecture including stunning palaces and mosques as you journey back in time at this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After a presentation on the Alleppey’s history, your guide will walk you through the Gujarati Quarter, canal banks and an ancient wholesale market. Join a local family for an authentic Keralan lunch, prepared using tropical produce, as you gain a unique insight into the history of Kerala’s backwaters.

Fly over India’s renowned ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur, a city renowned for its striking monuments, rich history, stunning gardens, havelis, grand palaces and forts. From above, you’ll be mesmerised by the vibrant cocktails of sights and colours.

On this full day tour, your first stop is the imposing Government Buildings of New Delhi. Then ride the Metro to the Old City for a rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes and to explore the spice market and Jama Masjid mosque. Return to New Delhi for lunch before a visit to a fashion designer’s studio and a walk in Lodi Gardens.

Discover intimate aspects of the vibrant city of Mumbai. At Churchgate Station, watch ‘dabbawallas’ unpack the city’s lunch boxes before delivering them throughout the metropolis, a service established during British rule for officials who didn’t trust food that wasn’t cooked by their wives or mothers. Next you’ll travel to Mahalaxmi to see Dhobi Ghat (open-air landry), followed by the charming village of Khotachi Wadi and bustling Bhuleshwar Market. After lunch in a local restaurant, continue to Fort Bombay and the David Sassoon Library.

Explore Rajasthan's capital, the 'Pink City' of Jaipur. Visit the City Palace before seeing the 17th-century Jantar Mantar Observatory, built by astrologer Jai Singh and featuring a 900-foot sundial. Take in the Central Museum, which houses antiques, and drive past the Palace of Winds with its intricate pink sandstone carving.

Discover Jaisalmer Fort, where people still live and work. Inside the complex’s walls you’ll see the Jain Temples, which date back to the 1100s and 1400s and are dedicated to hermits; the Maharaja’s Palace, bursting with intricate carvings and home to a small museum; Laximinath Temple, where Hindu worshippers chant devotional songs; the Patwon Ji ki Haveli, built for a rich trader’s five sons; and Nathmal Ki Haveli, built by two brothers who each created on one side, resulting in each looking slightly different.

Tour the walled 'Blue City' of Jodhpur, which sits on the edge of the Thar Desert and dates back to 1459 AD. The city's people prize colourful outfits and have a strong tradition of folk art. You'll see the impressive Mehrangarh Fort, perched on a rocky cliff with breathtaking views and home to magnificent palaces full of royal artefacts. Another highlight is Jaswant Thada, a group of white marble cenotaphs created in 1899 AD.

This dance-drama is unique to Kerala and its intricate hand gestures, exaggerated facial expressions and highly choreographed movements originate from an ancient form of martial art. During the performance, gods and demons act out tales from the three major Hindu Epics. The evening culminates in the spectacle of dancers ‘becoming’ their character as they don ornate costumes in an emotional and highly-charged atmosphere.

A luxurious overnight escape from Jodhpur in the midst of the Thar Desert's burnt dunes, Khimsar Dune Village is a secretive hideaway where idyllic thatched cottages nestle around a tranquil oasis.

Sprawled along the River Vaigai’s rocky banks in Tamil Nadu, learning and pilgrimage hub Madurai is one of south India’s oldest cities and is famous for its temples. Make your way to Meenakshi Temple in the heart of the old town, a spectacular complex with labyrinthine corridors and halls. Witness a beautiful night-time ceremony at this baroque monument, whose towers are covered in colourful images of gods, goddesses, animals and mythical figures. You’ll also visit the 17th-century Tirumalai Nayak Palace, where daily dance drama concerts are performed.

Explore Mysore, visiting the majestic Maharajah’s Palace. Built at the turn of the 20th century, this magnificent structure blends Hindu, Muslim, Rajput and Gothic styles and was once the official residence of Mysore's former royal family. With its elegantly carved halls and ornate gilded columns, today it is home to a wonderful collection of Indian and European sculptures and artefacts.

Explore New Delhi, built by the British to replace their capital, Calcutta, in 1911. Also known as Lutyen’s Delhi after its architect, this incredible city is full of historic sites. Pass the President House and drive down a wide avenue lined with ornamental canals, fountains and gardens. At one end sits India Gate, built in memory of the 70,000 Indian soldiers who died in World War I, while the other end is framed by magnificent presidential palace Rashtrapati Bhawan. Visit Humayun’s Tomb, which inspired other monuments such as the Taj Mahal. Set in a beautiful garden, the square tower is topped by a glorious marble dome and screened by high walls.

Embark on a jeep drive, seeing farmers at work and visiting their homes. Stop at the intricate Magarmandi Mata Temple, which was constructed in the 9th Century before being destroyed and rebuilt. Next visit Kheda, a small shephard settlement home to only one family of each trade such as silversmith, clay potter, carpenter, cobbler and blacksmith. Your safari travels through their grasslands, spotting antelopes and migratory birds at the lake.

Discover colourful Delhi on this tour of this diverse city. In Old Delhi see the bustling bazaars of Chandni Chowk and India’s biggest mosque, Jama Masjid. Drive past Red Fort, an imperial citadel named after its red sandstone battlements, before exploring New Delhi. Pass the President House, see India Gate and Visit Humayun’s Tomb, which inspired other monuments such as the Taj Mahal. Set in a beautiful garden, the square tower is topped by a glorious marble dome and screened by high walls.

Discover colourful Delhi on this fascinating morning tour, taking you through the buzzing streets of this diverse city. Old Delhi is an atmospheric walled city designed by Shah Jahan’s favourite daughter in the mid-1600s. Discover the bustling bazaars of Chandni Chowk and India’s biggest mosque, Jama Masjid, as you get a glimpse into everyday local life. End your tour with a drive past Red Fort, an imperial citadel named after its red sandstone battlements.

A cruise through the lush Keralan backwaters is one of the most enchanting ways of experiencing Keralan life. Kettuvallams, made completely from natural materials including wood and thatch, were the original transport of the region. Pass through rice fields and weave through tiny villages in your own private one, two or three bedroom houseboat, complete with a small crew.

Embark on a fascinating walk through diverse habitats as you explore Periyar’s beautiful landscape. Spotting birds, butterflies and other wildlife, follow nature trails that often weave through forest and marshy grassland. Your excursion lasts up to three hours and is accompanied by a trained tribal guide.

This plantation in Thekkady is one of Kerala’s major spice producers. Spices have always been important business here, especially since Europeans discovered their delights centuries ago. In Kerala, these captivating farms cultivate different spices in different areas, so you’ll wander through a rich variety of heady scents. As well as pepper, there’s cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, ginger, turmeric, curry leaves, and tea and coffee. You’ll also have the chance to try and buy.

The glistening white marble Taj Mahal is an exquisite monument to eternal love, created by Shah Jahan in response to his adored wife - Mumtaz Mahal's dying wish was that he should 'build a tomb in her memory such as the world had never seen before'. Nearby, the impressive Agra Fort is a city of palaces within massive walls, perhaps unfairly dominated by its neighbour. Both will leave you awe-struck.

The Taj Mahal is a magnificent monument to love and one of the world’s most recognised buildings. One of the best ways to view this iconic landmark is at sunrise, marvelling as the first rays of morning light bathe it in a pearly pink glow. A magical and truly unforgettable spectacle.

Depart early on board the Shatabdi Express train from Delhi (2 hours). Upon arrival in Agra, travel out of the city to explore fascinating Fatehpur Sikri, a ghost city built from scratch yet abandoned after only 14 years of occupation. Enjoy lunch before visiting the iconic Taj Mahal followed by a visit to the often over-shadowed but no less impressive Agra Fort. Your return journey leaves Agra in the evening ahead of a late arrival back in Delhi, thus completing a memorable trip.

Just 22 of the original 85 majestic Temples of Khajuraho remain today. The most famous in the western group is Kandariya Mahadeva, which features beautifully carved friezes depicting the sensual aspects of life. While the eastern group boasts fine examples of both Jain and Hindu temples.

Peep into the past as you learn about the Mannans, one of Periyar Tiger Reserve’s oldest indigenous groups. You’ll visit the tribal heritage museum – home to artifacts including fishing kit, hunting weapons and indigenous medicine – and trek through the tribal hamlet.

On this half day tour of Udaipur you'll visit the City Palace, Rajasthan's largest palace. This intricate marble and granite structure overlooks Lake Pichola and is a must-see. Continue to the complex's Fateh Prakash Palace to see the stunning Crystal Gallery, which houses a spectacular collection of royal crystal artefacts.

For a more personal experience, it is recommended that you pre-book upgraded game drives in a canter. These only carry six passengers, ensuring a quieter, more comfortable experience as well as superior wildlife viewing. Seats on canters are limited so book well in advance.

For a more personal experience, it is recommended that you pre-book upgraded game drives in a 4x4 jeep. These only carry six passengers, ensuring a quieter, more comfortable experience as well as superior wildlife viewing. Seats on jeeps are limited so book well in advance.

Formerly known as Benares, Varanasi is a pilgrim city of great culture and antiquity that famous American writer Mark Twain once said was 'older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together.' On this wonderful tour you’ll visit Sarnath, allegedly the site of Gautam Buddha’s first sermon about Buddhism’s basic principles. See stupas, monastery ruins and the museum, which houses the Ashokan pillar with its four-sided lion’s head and a plethora of Buddhist sculptures.

You'll be driven to Assi Gath to board a boat for a cruise down the River Ganges. Arrive at the main gath and take a walking tour of the Old Town before visiting Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Then return to the main gath to witness the evening aarti ceremony, then embark on a rickshaw ride before returning to your hotel.

Set off on a magical cruise in the dawn light and see your surroundings from a different perspective. Float down the Ganges past ornate ghats in a small rowing boat, watching the first stirrings of activity as the sun rises higher in the sky and another busy day begins.