India Inspiration
India is a vast South Asian country with diverse terrain – from Himalayan peaks to Indian Ocean coastline – and history reaching back five millennia. Culturally diverse and complex (with mainly rural, traditional and agrarian populations), it’s a nation undergoing significant political, economic and social change while facing various unique challenges to maintain many of its long-standing traditions and customs.
About India
Though somewhat arbitrary distinctions, India is often divided into four regions. The north includes Delhi, Punjab and neighboring states; the magnificent Himalayas; agrarian regions and a distinctive nomadic desert lifestyle. The east is made up of Kolkata (Calcutta), Orissa and other states. The west, which consists of Mumbai (Bombay), Goa and other states, is home to the Western Ghats (a step like mountain chain), verdant forests and sun-kissed beaches. Separated from the north by the Vindhya Mountain Range, the south comprises Chennai (Madras), Bangalore, Hyderabad, Thiruvananthapuram and much of the nation's coastline.
Most commonly visited, in the North you’ll find Mughal Empire landmarks including Delhi’s Red Fort complex, massive Jama Masjid mosque and Agra’s iconic Taj Mahal mausoleum. The southeastern states of Orissa and Tamil Nadu are best known for temples while lush Karnataka, the south central rainforest-strewn state of which Bangalore is the capital, offers glimpses of the ancient Vijayanagara Empire at Hampi, through thick rain-forest cover. The Ellora and Ajanta caves, both UNESCO protected groupings of ancient cave temples dating back to the second century, lie northwest of Mumbai in the district of Arangabad.
Experience India
Dine with Family
Enjoy dinner with a local Indian family in Delhi. To begin, say “Namaste” as they welcome you into their home, where dinner will be prepared. Experience the flavor of a homemade Indian meal, typically vegetarian, and gain a taste of the bold spices and aromatic herbs that make this cuisine so unique. You’ll learn about the traditional ingredients used to make everyday meals.
Spot the Elusive Tiger
Spotting one of these magical creatures in the wild is a rare but rewarding experience. Take a tiger safari in Ranthambhore Tiger National Park or Bandhavgarh National Park. Bandhavagarh was the former hunting preserve of the Maharaja of Rewa, and at present is a famous natural hub for white tigers. White tigers, now a major attraction around the world’s zoos, were first discovered in Rewa, not far from here.
Experience a Tribal Festival
Take part in the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, located in the north-east part of the country. It’s a tribal festival organized by the government where all the tribes of North East of India gather and showcase their dances and way of living. It’s a great opportunity to be exposed to the culture of India.
Tour Royal India
Take a multi-day tour in the “Golden Triangle” of Dehli, Agra and Jaipur. Visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World – the Taj Mahal, and other UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Fatehpur Sikri in Agra and Palace of the Winds in Jaipur. These sites have been wonderfully preserved for you to wander the architectural masterpieces while learning the intricate history of the area.
When to Go
The peak season is October through March. Although this is higher season and will likely be a bit more crowded and not the lowest rates - it truly is the best time to go. If you want to avoid the crowds, try July or August as the hot temps will have dipped slightly.
When to Book
We suggest booking 6 months in advance for this destination.
