India is a country of big contrasts and memorable experiences. Busy cities, ancient landmarks, mountain landscapes, wildlife and centuries of tradition all sit side by side, making every part of the journey feel different.
On our India adventure holiday, you’ll experience the famous sights of the Golden Triangle before heading towards the Himalayan foothills for hiking, yoga and a safari in Jim Corbett National Park.
There’s a lot to pack into one trip. Here are some of the highlights to look forward to when you visit India.
Explore Delhi: Old and New
Delhi is a city of contrasts, and you’ll see that as you make your way between Old and New Delhi. Old Delhi is busy, noisy and full of character, with narrow streets, markets and the constant sound of traffic.
One of the best ways to experience it is by rickshaw through Chandni Chowk, where shops, food stalls and everyday city life fill the streets around you.
New Delhi brings a change of pace, with wider, greener avenues and reminders of the city’s more recent history. You'll see children playing cricket in Princes Park, while Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers an introduction to the Mughal architecture that would later influence the Taj Mahal.
Forts, mosques and historic landmarks add even more to see as you get to know the Indian capital.
See the Taj Mahal in Agra
It’s one of India’s most recognisable sights, but seeing the Taj Mahal in person is something else entirely.
Commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the 17th-century mausoleum is built from white marble and decorated with intricate inlay work using semi-precious stones.
Set beside the Yamuna River in Agra, the Taj Mahal is the standout sight on India’s Golden Triangle route. Visit as the light changes across the marble and take some time to appreciate the scale and detail of one of the world’s best-known landmarks.
Visit Jaipur, India’s Pink City
Jaipur, Rajasthan’s colourful capital, is known as the Pink City for its distinctive pink-hued buildings and historic architecture.
One of its most recognisable landmarks is the Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds. Its distinctive five-storey façade was built in the 18th century, allowing women of the royal household to observe life on the streets below without being seen.
Then there’s Amber Fort, sitting high above the surrounding landscape. Inside, you’ll find courtyards, grand rooms and the Sheesh Mahal, or Hall of Mirrors, where thousands of tiny pieces of mirror and coloured glass cover the walls and ceiling.
Practice Yoga and Hike in the Himalayas
Leaving the cities behind, the scenery changes as you make your way towards the foothills of the Himalayas.
Rishikesh sits on the banks of the River Ganges and has long been associated with yoga, meditation and spiritual traditions. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to slow things down with yoga while also getting out into the surrounding landscape on foot.
Guided hikes take you along forest trails, riverside paths and into the hills. One highlight is the hike to Kunjapuri Devi Temple, a Hindu temple set high above Rishikesh, with far-reaching views towards the Garhwal Himalayas.
Go on Safari in Jim Corbett National Park
India isn’t only about its cities and historic landmarks. A safari in Jim Corbett National Park brings a completely different experience to the trip.
Established in 1936, it is India’s oldest national park and an important habitat for wildlife, including the Bengal tiger.
Head out on an early morning game drive through forests, grasslands and riverbeds, keeping watch for deer, wild boar, monkeys, elephants and a wide variety of birdlife. Tiger sightings are never guaranteed, but there’s plenty to keep an eye out for along the way.
Taste Traditional Indian Food
Food is a big part of travelling around India, and each stop brings something different to try. Indian cuisine varies considerably between regions, with different combinations of spices, ingredients and cooking traditions.
Vegetarians will find plenty of choice, with meat-free dishes forming an important part of Indian cuisine. In Rajasthan, even simple dishes such as potato curry served with bread give you a taste of local cooking.
Eating at local restaurants is also a great way to try regional dishes and get another perspective on the places you’re visiting.
Experience India’s Culture and Local Life
Some of the most memorable parts of travelling in India can happen between the major sights. Markets, neighbourhoods, places of worship and conversations with local people all give you a closer look at everyday life.
India is home to a wide range of religious and cultural traditions, with Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism and Jainism among the faiths practised across the country. As you travel, you’ll see how these traditions are reflected in architecture, festivals, food and daily life.
Take the time to look around, ask questions and listen to your local guide. There’s always something happening, particularly in India’s cities, and experiencing that everyday rhythm is all part of the trip.
Take an India adventure holiday
Want to experience the Golden Triangle and go beyond India’s best-known sights? Our India adventure holiday combines Delhi, Jaipur and the Taj Mahal with hiking and yoga in the Himalayan foothills and a safari in Jim Corbett National Park.
Flights, transfers, accommodation, excursions and a local expert guide are included, so the practical details are taken care of. You can focus on experiencing India and everything packed into the journey.
