Experience the astonishing diversity of India on this highlight-packed adventure that encompasses both the pulsating North and chilled-out South. We start by exploring the three cities that form the Golden Triangle: frenetic Delhi; Agra, home to the Taj Mahal; and the Pink City of Jaipur. We then fly south to gaze over vast tea estates, cruise the Kerala backwaters and spot wildlife with an indigenous guide. A hand-picked selection of accommodations and off-the-tourist-track adventures make this trip ideal for anyone who wants to experience everything India offers.

This trip includes eight nights in premium hotels, three nights in heritage stays, two nights in epic stays and one night on a houseboat.



The hotels used are premium or heritage quality (four to five-star, local rating). Our heritage stays have original features and offer a unique step back in time. We include two epic stays, one in the north and one in the south: the medieval Neemrana Fort-Palace and CGH Spice Village. It's worth noting that in Neemrana Fort-Palace, no two rooms are alike due to the building's ancient and protected history. The property layout is unchanged and keeps it's charm from when it was once an active Fort-Palace.



The deluxe houseboats have spacious air-conditioned bedrooms with en suites, plus a sundeck and separate dining area, although the style/layout can vary from boat to boat. Accompanying you on board will be a cook, driver and assistants. Expect traditional Keralan meals prepared for you using local produce. Houseboats have two to five twin-bedded rooms. Larger groups may be split over several boats; however, the group will come together for riverside stops and the overnight anchor point where your leader will be on-hand.



Please note, the gas water heaters on some houseboats are open-flued systems, as used in many parts of India. While this complies with Indian law, it does not meet UK standards and therefore we must inform travellers that there is a risk (while minimal) of carbon monoxide emissions. We have asked our leaders, where applicable, to install a carbon monoxide alarm, and to brief your group about keeping their rooms ventilated at night (ie window open) to ensure sufficient air circulation.