Discover North India, from the bustling capital city of New Delhi to spiritual, soulful Varanasi with its ancient funeral ghats beside the sacred Ganges River, and the grandeur of the Raj palaces; North India is a land of incredible contrast that will leave you spellbound.
Explore the famous Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Admire the beautiful Taj Mahal – a monument to love – at sunrise, discover the majestic forts and impressive palaces of Rajasthan, or relax by the shimmering Lake Pichola in Udaipur, and marvel at the light reflecting off marble-domed temples. Whether you’re witnessing moving performances and humbling ancient rituals or enjoying immersive cultural excursions, you’ll find there are not enough words to describe the sense of wonder you will feel during your holiday of a lifetime.
Tropical and laid back, with lush coastlines and palm-lined beaches, South India is a complete contrast to the north. Whether you want to get back to nature, admire amazing architecture, delight your tastebuds or reconnect with your spiritual side, you’ll find South India offers plenty for everyone.
Explore the fascinating Kerala Backwaters by houseboat and let your cares drift away as you soak up nature at its finest. Visit the cities of Bangalore and Mysore to learn more about their British colonial history, and Puducherry for its French history. As well as boasting the finest beaches in the country, South India is also home to the Western Ghats, mountains whose slopes support tea, coffee and spice plantations. These mountains also offer a refuge for all manner of wildlife, with sanctuaries and national parks such as Periyar, home to elephants, langur monkeys and tigers, as well as an array of colourful birdlife
You'll find that the wonders of India are even more delightful when you're ensconced in the comfort and luxury of the region's most prestigious hotels. In Agra stay at the Oberoi Amarvilas, only 600 metres from the Taj Mahal, or the eco-friendly Evolve Back Resorts in Coorg and Kabini. Enjoy authentic heritage accommodation at the former hunting lodge of Rawla Narlai or Ranvas in Nagaur Fort. Feel like royalty at the Taj Jai Mahal Palace in Jaipur or the Suryagarh Jaisalmer. In Puducherry, stay at the Palais de Mahe, a tribute to the town’s French legacy, or relax at the colonial-style Brunton Boatyard in Kochi.
Southern India’s Kerala Backwaters are a unique network of canals and lakes linked by 44 rivers to create a water navigation system stretching over 450 kilometres. The only way to truly explore this lush world is by staying overnight on board a Kettuvallam, a traditional houseboat. Originally a thatched roof rice barge, these vessels have been converted into luxurious air-conditioned houseboats. Offering a unique way to explore the backwaters, you’ll have the chance to stop along the route to meet the locals before returning to feast on delicious local specialities prepared on board. Voted one of the 50 destinations of a lifetime by National Geographic Traveller, after spending a night on board in this unique region, we're sure you’ll agree.
