With its extreme culture shock, contrasting landscapes, fiery cuisine and blaring cities, India is a thrill to the senses and a travel experience like no other. Its pulse-pounding streets are exhilarating, fascinating and overwhelming all at once. Its dramatic mountain ranges and exotic beaches are worlds apart, accentuating the incredible variety of life in this epic country. The ancient and traditional collide with the modern world, with India firmly a part of both. From bustling railway journeys and raucous rickshaws rides, to uncovering awe-inspiring monuments and encountering the endless scents of spices and incense, this incredible, vast chunk of Asia is the perfect place for a real adventure.
Travelling to India
India has a large number of international airports and is a relatively easy journey from the UK with direct flight times to New Delhi and Mumbai hovering around the 9 hour mark. These are the most popular entry points, with lots of connecting flights available to onward destinations such as Goa and Kerala. New Delhi is a good choice for travel to northern India and Rajasthan, whereas Mumbai is better if you are heading down south. Lots of Indian cities are served by top airlines and student/youth fares are available on many routes.
When To Visit India
India has marked differences in weather depending on the time of year. The winter months see pleasant temperatures generally around the mid twenties (although the central regions can be higher) meaning this is prime time for beach destinations. Northern India sees colder temperatures however, in particular up in the Himalayas. April through to June sees a steady increase in temperatures as the sizzle begins. There is some respite up in the Himalayas however. The end of June sees in the beginning of the Monsoon season, which means heavy rain storms are prone to occur, particularly in the Himalayas and tropical southern tip. Accommodation can be quieter however during the summer months as many are put off by the rains so it can save you a few pennies travelling at this time.
Top Places To Visit
AGRA & RAJASTHAN
From Agra’s world renowned Taj Mahal to the sensational Amber Fort in Japur. From the blue hues of Jodhpur’s maze-like streets to the beautiful palace of Udaipur. And let’s not forget the dramatic desert city of Jaisalmer and pretty little Pushkar, both of which burst with activity during the annual Camel Fairs. This is where those magical images of India conjured up by the imagination come alive.
THE HIMALAYAS
The Himalayas mean getting totally off the beaten track. Visit Ladakh in the north for an out of this world experience of tranquillity and isolation. Shimla and McLeod Ganj are great stops, the former famous for its scenic train journey, the latter for being home to the Dalai Lama. Manali and Rishikesh are known for their stunning surroundings, and Darjeeling in the east is perfect for tea lovers.
Mumbai & Delhi
These vast cities hit visitors with a bang. Both the capital Delhi and its rival Mumbai are thrilling, deafening, captivating – kaleidoscopes of people, colour, traffic and bric-a-brac. Paharganj is the backpacker hub of Delhi and great for perusing the bazars for top local crafts. And Mumbai isn’t just about Bollywood, it has some of the best street food in all of India, so tuck right in!
Varanasi & the Ganges
One of India’s holiest cities, Varanasi and its Ganges shores are a chaotic mix of sounds and scents, rituals and daily to-dos. One of the most important centres of Hinduism, it’s considered an incredibly sacred cremation place and family scenes along the river are a daily occurrence. The city is a striking insight into India’s powerful religious culture and always leaves everlasting impressions.
Goa & Kerala
Once a Portuguese outpost then a top hippie-hangout, Goa is one of India’s best beach destinations, perfect for relaxing along its exotic shores, not forgetting exploring its colonial old city. Further south, Kerala is famed for its idyllic backwaters, lush hills and again, pristine beaches. Moreover, southern India boasts sensational foods featuring sweet curries and seafood, so prepare to feast!
Getting Around India
India can be overwhelming for first time visitors due to its hectic pace and complex culture, so many travellers opt to join a group tour. Want to do something a little different? How about volunteering in India? Or perhaps a Tailor Made trip following your own perfect itinerary. Or if you’re in the mood to let out your wild side, we’ve got the perfect rickshaw adventure for you!
Tours & Rail Adventures
We know that trying to take on India alone can be challenging, so why not take the stress out of your trip and join a group adventure. Meet fellow travellers, see the highlights of the country, get off the beaten track learn about local life with your group leader.
Goa Beach Breaks
Want to get away from it all? Fancy a top-notch mix of beaching around interspersed with some epic culture? Then Goa is the place for you! Our Tailor Made team can hook you up with an epic Goan beach package and take care of all the details so you don’t have to.
Mini Adventures in India
Got your India trip more or less planed but want a cheeky add-on or two? Check out our top packages and ensure you have the complete Indian experience. From camel safaris to yoga retreats, we’ve got your Indian adventure covered!
Tailor Made India
Have a specific itinerary in mind? Want something extra special? Our Tailor Made India team can put together your perfect trip, tailored to your needs. From accommodation to transport and guides, let our Tailor Made team complete your Indian experience.
Volunteer in India
From teaching to helping local communities, volunteering in India will give you an incredible insight into local living and could be a life changing opportunity. Not only will you be giving valuable assistance to those in need but you’ll be gaining some amazing experience too, perfect for building your CV.
The Rickshaw Run
Want to do something completely different? Want to impress your friends with tales of a wild adventure? Then the Rickshaw Run is for you! Find out more about this crazy escapade now…