Watching the sun set over the world's greatest monument to love ‘Taj Mahal’ is one of the most memorable moments on an Indian sojourn. Here at Tailored Journeys, this is just one of the unique experiences we offer on our cultural tours of a diverse and rich land with a great reminiscence of the British Raj.
India is one of the oldest existing civilisations and the most diverse country in the world. Culture in India is an amalgamation of numerous languages, architecture forms, religions, century old customs & traditions, varied cuisines and amazing people.
Our cultural holidays put a strong emphasis on providing a tailored experience to the discerning traveller and offer something for everyone. The trips are meticulously planned with utmost attention to detail and many a times provide exclusive access.
The itineraries take in Rajasthan’s royal palaces and Forts, ancient Hindu temples, sacred cities of Varanasi & Haridwar, the magnificent art & architecture of Mughals where Taj Mahal is the finest example in a north India tour.
In Lucknow you can trace the British Legacy from the ‘Indian Mutiny of 1857’ and marvel at the colonial architecture in Kolkata. The south has the abandoned but incredible ruins of Hampi, traders and temples in Tamilnadu, French Pondicherry and the famous Keralan cuisine.
Visiting India for the first time or simply looking to return, our India specialists are here to help you make your India holiday special.
Tell us more about your India travel plans, and we'll create a tailor-made holiday, just for you.
Call us: 01442 617 777
SUGGESTED CULTURAL HOLIDAYS IN INDIA:
THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE
8 NIGHTS
New Delhi / Agra / Jaipur
The famous Golden Triangle is a classic introduction to the diverse and beautiful India. Architectural wonders, historic sights and the colourful countryside awaits you, as you embark on an epic journey. This is perhaps the best tour to start with if you have never been to India.
GOLDEN TRIANGLE & VARANASI
10 NIGHTS
New Delhi / Varanasi / Agra / Jaipur
Combining India's famous Golden Triangle with the holy city of Varanasi, this itinerary is a classic blend of history, culture and religion. Begin with visiting the imperial city of Delhi, learn about the Hindu religion in Varanasi before moving on to Agra to see the magnificent Taj Mahal and finally ending in the Pink city of Jaipur. This is the cultural heart of India and you can immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the country.
GOLDEN TRIANGLE & TIGERS
10 NIGHT
New Delhi / Agra / Sawai Madhopur / Jaipur
This classic journey combines India's Golden Triangle with thrill of spotting the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger in the wild. The ultimate tour of India takes in Delhi, India's magnificent capital, the stunning Taj Mahal in Agra, Ranthambore which has a thriving population of tigers. This itinerary blends some of the most spectacular cultural sights of India with a wildlife experience.
CLASSIC GOLDEN TRIANGLE & KERALA
17 NIGHTS
New Delhi / Agra / Jaipur / Kochi / Thekkady / Alappuzha / Kumarakom / Mararikulam
This classic Golden Triangle and Kerala holiday combines the unforgettable cities and sights of the celebrated Golden Triangle in the north, with exploration of one of the country’s most beautiful and lush states, Kerala, in the south.
RAJASTHAN IN STYLE
10 NIGHTS
New Delhi / Agra / Jaipur / Udaipur / Gurgaon
With this itinerary you experience the cultural & vibrant Golden Triangle and the romantic Udaipur staying at some of the best hotels in India. Designed for the first time traveller, this holiday takes you through India's Golden Triangle visiting stunning monuments including Taj Mahal and some of the most beautiful forts & Palaces in Jaipur.
IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE RAJ
14 NIGHTS
New Delhi / Agra / Chambal Valley / Lucknow/ Varanasi / Kolkata
On this holiday you will embark on a journey following the footsteps of the British Raj in India. The bespoke itinerary explores the reminiscence of the Colonial rule and the legacy left behind in the country.
FORTS & PALACES OF RAJASTHAN
15 NIGHTS
New Delhi / Agra / Jaipur / Rajasthan / Jodhpur / Narlai / Udaipur
This is a fantastic tour that combines rural Rajasthan with some of the popular cities in the region. After visiting the famous Taj Mahal and colourful bazaars of Jaipur you move into the heartland of Rajasthan to stay at hidden gems of Barli & Narlai. The royal forts and palaces are combined with village walks, wilderness safaris, to make you experience the traditional village life. The thrill of spotting a leopard in the wild and taking a cruise on the picturesque Lake Pichola are sure to make this holiday memorable.
CENTRAL INDIA, AJANTA CAVES & MUMBAI
14 NIGHTS
New Delhi / Gwalior / Orchha / Bhopal / Indore / Maheshwar / Aurangabad / Mumbai
This journey through the heart of India discovers many hidden jewels. The historic heart of India has sights steeped in heritage, culture & history. Starting from the stunning fort in Gwalior, we travel to the sleepy settlement of Orccha and the city of shimmering lakes Bhopal.
RAJASTHAN - FORTS, PALACES & LEOPARDS
15 NIGHTS
New Delhi / Agra / Jaipur / Nimaj / Jodphur / Bera / Udaipur
The best way to experience Rajasthan is to combine big cities with the rural towns and villages of the princely state. This itinerary focuses on the many rural gems off the beaten track. From royal mansions to luxury tented camps, forts to hunting lodges, this is a leisurely journey through traditional India. From Delhi continue to see the magnificent Taj Mahal, busy bazaars of Jaipur and the lovely retreat of peaceful Chhatra Sagar. Learn about the Rajputana valour in Jodhpur, chase leopards in the wilderness before ending in the most romantic Udaipur.
RURAL RAJASTHAN
14 NIGHTS
New Delhi / Agra / Sapotara / Jaipur / Shahpura / Udaipur
Traverse beyond the bustling cities of Rajasthan and explore the countryside on this tour. Immerse yourself in some of the most pretty villages, forts and homestays that offer an authentic experience of a gentle village life. Begin your journey at the popular cities of Delhi & Agra before heading towards untouched Ramathra to stay at at the beautifully restored 350 year old Fort and Jaipur with its colourful bazaars. From here delve deeper into Rajasthan and stay in Shahpura - an oasis away from the chaos of big cities. Finally end in royal Udaipur where you wander through the markets, visit the stunning City Palace and enjoy the sunset over Lake Pichola.
CLASSIC SPLENDOURS OF INDIA
11 NIGHTS
New Delhi / Agra / Gwalior / Orchha / Panna National Park / Varanasi
This journey through the heart of India combines the magnificent Taj Mahal, stunning Gwalior fort, the amazing temples of Khajuraho and the spiritual Varanasi to give you a memorable experience of the diversity of India. See the contrast when you move from the quiet Panna to religious Varannasi. The experiences on this tour will leave you wanting more and wanting to start planning your next trip!
GOLDEN TEMPLE & HIMALAYAN FOOTHILLS
10 NIGHTS
Amritsar / Dharamshala / Pragpur / Shimla / New Delhi
This wonderful itinerary travels through the foothills of Himalaya. Start in the frontier city of Amritsar which is the epicentre of Sikh religion with the stunning Golden Temple, the tour ends in the Summer Capital of Shimla. On the way stop in the Tibetan settlement of Mcleod Ganj and picturesque Dharashala, home to the exiled Dalai Lama. Travel further into Kangra valley to explore the heritage of Pragpur before spending last few days in Shimla to experience the 'Toy Train'.
KOLKATA, TEA ESTATES OF DARJEELING & EASTERN HIMALAYA
13 NIGHTS
Kolkata / Kalimpong / Gangtok / Peling City / Darjeeling / West Bengal
Often less visited and unexplored, East India is an incredible place to visit. This exciting journey uncovers the different shades of Kolkata before exploring the state of Sikkim, its spellbinding scenery, flower nurseries and stunning monasteries. The region is incredible with an old Buddhist culture, quaint hill towns, breath-taking views and friendly people. Then its down to the colonial hill station Darjeeling to experience sunrise over the third highest mountain in the world and an exciting journey on the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
TRIBES & TEXTILES OF GUJARAT
12 NIGHTS
Ahmedabad / Dasada / Bhuj / Gondal / Sasan / Bhavnagar / Mumbai
This itinerary visits Gujarat which has a culture similar to Rajasthan but is less visited. Travel beyond the big cities and step off the tourist trail to the westernmost state of India. Start with the old city of Ahmedabad known for its Indo-Islamic architecture and bustling markets, visit the salt plains of Kutch where rare wild asses roam in the wilderness. Sample some of the finest Hindu & Jain Temples of Modhera and Palitana, impressive step wells of Adalaj and Rani ki Vav showcasing and the fascinating Calico Museum. Also visit the colourful & attractive tribal settlements around Bhuj with their decorated houses, textiles, jewellery and amazing people who always wear a smile. This tour is truly captivating with some of the most usual sights!
SOUTH INDIA - TOY TRAIN, BACKWATERS & BEACHES
12 NIGHTS
Mysore / Kabini Forest Reserve / Ooty / Coonoor / Kochi / Alappuzha / Mararikulam
Travelling through one of the most historic & beautiful regions of India, this is a memorable journey from princely Mysore to the beautiful spice town of Kochi. Start in Mysore exploring the palaces before spending time chasing wildlife in the Nagarhole National Park - arguably the finest in south India. From here drive up in the hills to the charming colonial settlement of Ooty. Wander through the tea estates that surround the hill station before travelling on the famous ‘Toy Train’ down the western ghats. From Cochin head towards the tranquil backwaters to cruise on your private houseboat and finally relax beside the Arabian Sea on the beautiful Keralan coast.
CLASSIC KERALA
9 NIGHTS
Kochi / Munnar / Thekkady / Alappuzha / Mararikulam
Tropical Kerala is India's most tranquil and unhurried state. The region has an abundance of tea plantations, forested hills, swaying palms and backwaters. The southern state is an excellent introduction to India. This classic journey begins in the historic city of Cochin with its colourful spice markets to the rolling hills and tea plantations of Munnar. From here travel to the spice plantations of Periyar, where some rare wildlife can be spotted. Explore the backwaters on a rice barge before staying on one of the most famous beaches for relaxation.
CULINARY JOURNEY THROUGH SOUTH INDIA
16 NIGHTS
Mysore / Kabini Forest Reserve / Wayanad / Thalassery / Kochi / Thekkady / Alappuzha / Mararikulam
Indian food is as diverse as its culture & heritage and this journey is an 'insider's experience' to the amazing diversity and flavours of southern India with a culinary passage through a variety of cuisines that differ from region to region. Into On this tour sample some of the most spectacular sights, learn cooking practices passed on from one generation to the other, trek through the spice plantations, shop in the local markets for key ingredients and learn to cook some very traditional dishes. Start in the historical Mysore and continue through the western ghats into Kerala and its backwaters. Each day on this tour provides a fascinating peek into the culinary traditions. Before relaxing on the shores of Arabian Sea.
KERALA - A FAMILY ADVENTURE
10 NIGHTS
Kochi / Kerala / Kumarakom / Alappuzha / Mararikulam
This holiday to tropical Kerala meanders slowly through the lush countryside. From the port city of Cochin, to the lovely homestay in rural Kerala run by a local family, you will visit farm lands, visit villages, enjoy cooking demonstrations and much more. Head to the backwaters to stay in a village, before boarding your private houseboat to experience the unhurried life along the banks. Finally relax on the sandy beaches of a fishing village.
KERALA & THE MALDIVES
10 NIGHTS
Kochi / Munnar / Thekkady / Alappuzha / Maldives
Travelling across the most beautiful state of Kerala, followed by a relaxing stay on the pristine beaches of the Maldives this holiday is perfect for both exploration and relaxation. Start your travels from the bustling port city of Cochin, head up to the hills of Munnar with its rolling tea estates to explore the tea plantations and beautiful valleys. From Munnar drive down the western ghats to Periyar Tiger Reserve and its spice gardens. Next stay on a private houseboat on the backwaters and witness some of the spectacular scenery. The last few days are spent on the white sandy beaches of the Maldives.
EXPLORING HAMPI & THE DECCAN PLAYEAU
10 NIGHTS
Aurangabad / Hyderabad / Hampi / Bangalore
Located away from the popular tourist trails, Aurangabad, Hyderabad and Hampi are amazingly diverse that only a few people visit. This journey of rediscovery visits the hidden gems of Ajanta & Ellora in Aurangabad, followed by opulent palaces and atmospheric markets of the Old city in Hyderabad. A heady mix of history and culture, this special itinerary travels to the ancient city of Hampi where remarkable empires flourished and declined. The architectural legacies can still be seen even today and are explored on this holiday.
LADAKH IN STYLE
9 NIGHTS
New Delhi / Ladakh / Diskit
Ladakh is a land like no other. Bounded by two of the world’s mightiest mountain ranges, the Great Himalaya and the Karakoram, Ladakh is a high-altitude desert area located at the western edge of the Tibetan plateau. Its awe-inspiring landscape has been modified and sculpted into its spectacular shape by wind and water over the millennia. The moon-like scenery is extraordinary: stark and barren but interspersed with isolated settlements of green oases full of swaying poplar trees, apricot orchards and cultivated farmland. Despite the rugged terrain and high altitude, the people of Ladakh exhibit a natural Joie de vivre and their customs and lifestyle are a continuum from the past; these friendly and gentle people will all contribute to make your visit to this stunning area both fascinating and memorable. Explore this magical adventure in style and in ultimate luxury.
Build Your Tailor-Made Holiday to India
As well as luxury holidays, we've also built many different India itineraries for families and honeymoon couples who want to see the best parts the country has to offer.
The holiday itineraries above are examples of ones we have created previously in India, and give you a good idea on the time needed to see many of the idyllic places mentioned above. If you would like more information on a specific area, or a certain hotel, please get in touch with us.
Perfect for:
Adventure, culture, cities, beach, family
Time difference:
GMT+ 4.5 hours
When to go:
October to March
International Airports:
Mumbai(BOM)
Delhi(DEL)
Flight duration:
8 hours approx
Vaccinations:
Some are recommended or required by the Centres for Disease Control and the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Tailored Journeys is about helping you explore one of the most fascinating and beautiful regions on earth, in style. Even if – especially if – you don’t know where to start, call us now to talk about creating your own Tailored Journey – and let the dream begin.
