A country of 1.3 billion people and 1.3 million square miles can never be seen in one trip – or even in several. Best to select a target and enjoy the carnival of colour and controlled chaos which defines it – Delhi with its Victorian architecture; Goa and its lovely beaches; rising Kolkata (Calcutta) with a food scene that surprises; calmer Kerala, all waterways and houseboats in the dreamy south; glorious Rajasthan with its temples and palaces in Jaipur and Jodhpur. Even these only scratch the surface of a truly sensational destination.
Must see: India's biggest and most populous metropolis, Mumbai lives up to its image as a maze of culture, clutter and charm. This is the glamorous home of Bollywood, but my lasting memories of the city are more humble – shopping for shirts and saris in Colaba, drinking tea in Iranian cafe Britannia & Co, savouring the sunset upon Chowpatty Beach.
From the Bay of Bengal coast to the backwaters of Kerala, discover the delights of South India by road and private houseboat. Explore ancient Shore Temples, see Dravidian art and architecture at Mahabalipuram, historic palaces, and wild elephants in Periyar National Park.
Often overlooked by most travellers, East India offers an incredible mix ofor the senses; from the energy of Kolkata, to the peaceful waterways of the Sunderbans, to the spiritual Sikkim Buddhism of the Himalayas there is so much to see and do. In just over two weeks experience the best of East India staying in comfortable boutique hotels.
Sao Domingo’s is a small, simple, family-run hotel and offers a great choice for those wishing to explore the beautiful beaches of South Goa.
Focusing on the northern part of the state rather than the more touristy south, this holiday lets you explore Kerala in a unique way. Cruise through the back waters on a converted rice barge. Explore the eclectic Cochin city with its mix of architecture, cuisine and history. Enjoy a spot of luxury camping boasting some of India's best birdlife.
Experience the sights and sounds and colours of railway travel in India as you take the express from Delhi to Kalka. Board the Toy Train and witness timeless, magical scenes as the narrow gauge line winds 100km along precipitous mountain ledges, up through tunnels and over fairy-tale bridges to the hill station.
Follow the footsteps of Rudyard Kipling and embark on an extraordinary journey across Madhya Pradesh. Visit the wildlife park that inspired The Jungle Book, Pench National Park; spot a living Shere Khan tiger and see the cheeky monkeys in their natural environment.
From the lush green valleys of Darjeeling’s tea gardens, travel overland to marvel at Sikkim’s superb landscapes and a spectacular view of the Himalayas. Cross into Bhutan’s southern border at Phuntsholing. Head north to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, to begin an in-depth immersion into the culture and traditions of this remote Himalayan kingdom.
Set directly on the beach in lush manicured gardens filled with tropical flowers and coconut palms, the Taj Exotica more than lives up to the quality reputation of the Taj group name.
Lose yourselves in this fascinating tour of Rajasthan with your private guide and driver. See the golden sands of the beautiful Thar desert, rugged forts, beautiful palaces and serene lakes. Catch a glimpse of the Royal Bengal tiger at Ranthambore, enjoy the soulful music and lively Rajasthani dances.
This exciting off-the-beaten-track overland trip takes you on a journey through Karnataka, visiting the key cities of Mysore and Hampi - both with their own world heritage sites.
