India Holidays
India is quite literally a feast for the senses: a vast land of mountains, deserts, rivers and national parks blessed with a rich and colourful culture unrivalled anywhere else in the world. From exquisite temples to the mighty Mughal forts, the delightful tranquility of the Kerala Backwaters and the bustling populations of India’s great cities – everything in this country is on a huge scale and to witness this colourful land at first hand is an unforgettable experience.
Agra & the Taj Mahal
Once the bustling capital of the Mughal emperors during the 16th and 17th Centuries, Agra was the scene of much fighting for many years as different empires battled for its control.
Agra has since developed as an industrial centre boasting a thriving cottage industry of carpet makers, leather workers and stonemasons.
However the city is more famous as the site of one of the world’s most romantic, graceful and photographed buildings, namely the Taj Mahal, completed in 1653. Built as a mausoleum for Mumtaz Mahal by her husband, the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, it took twenty thousand labourers over twenty years to construct and no expense was spared in the exquisite craftsmanship from around the world that was used throughout the building.
Another Mughal legacy is the huge Agra Fort that was started in 1565 and consists of a fascinating blend of palaces, mosques, gates and towers. The deserted Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri is another remarkable architectural feat that was built of red sandstone in just 15 years and was then abandoned almost overnight. Consisting of forts, palaces, gates and mosques, this is a captivating place to visit nearby to Agra.
Our preferred hotels in Agra include:
Oberoi Amarvilas
ITC Mughal
Trident Hilton
Gateway Hotel
Cochin
With its large, natural harbour set around a series of islands and channels, Cochin has long been a port of great importance and was once the hub of the spice trade along the whole of the Malabar Coast.
Although still a busy port and large naval base, Cochin has retained its charm with a great wealth and mixture of architecture and cultural sites that are the legacy of centuries of rule by different European powers ranging from the Dutch and British to the Portuguese.
Some of the highlights include the Mattancherry (or Dutch) Palace which houses some of the finest original murals in India, the Church of St Francis which is the oldest European church in India built in 1503, a delightful Jewish synagogue and the accompanying Jewtown with its shops and nearby spice markets, and the Kathakali dancing performances which date back over 500 years.
Our preferred hotels in Cochin include:
Brunton Boatyard
Malabar House
Le Colonial
Trinity
Delhi
As the political capital and the principal gateway to the largest democracy in the world, Delhi’s importance is assured, but its cultural past is no less important as a city steeped in history with a whole host of empires that used it as their capital over the last 3000 years.
Up to eight different cities have been built here through the centuries, a fact that has inevitably resulted in a wealth of architectural gems from forts and palaces to mosques and museums.
The Mongols, Persians and Mughals all had their capitals here and it was the British who named New Delhi as their capital, thus splitting the city into two halves. The fascination for this unique and beautiful city remains unabated and with so much to see, it is the perfect place to either start or end a visit to India.
Our preferred hotels in Delhi include:
Imperial Hotel
The Claridges
The Maidens
The Oberoi, Gurgaon
Kerala Backwaters
Hugging the coast of Kerala is a complex network of lagoons, lakes, rivers and canals that make up this fragile ecological system. A distinct way of life has evolved around this watery world, which acts as a source of food, irrigation and method of transport. The best way to experience the area is to step aboard a houseboat, beautifully converted from an old rice barge, and escape the daily noise and frenetic pace of modern India.
Life glides by as the fishermen check the catch in their cantilevered Chinese nets; rice barges float along laden down with people, cashews, coconuts or bricks; and you can watch the daily rituals of the people from a unique angle as they go about their lives on narrow spits of land. A houseboat on the backwaters offers a special insight into a peaceful and serene world.
There is also the option of enjoying one of the spectacular temple festivals of Kerala. These grand processions consist of beautifully decorated elephants and colourful chariots accompanied by hundreds of musicians and thousands of dancing devotees. Other festivals include vibrant, pulsating races of snake boats on the backwaters. Luxury tented camps are erected at the site of each festival for a two nights’ stay – please contact us for further details.
Our preferred boats on the Backwaters include:
Sauvar Nigam
Discovery
Lotus
Our preferred hotels on the Backwaters include:
Kumarakom Lake Resort
Purity
Philipkutty’s Farm
Coconut Lagoon
Neeleshwar Hermitage
Khajuraho
Although it is now a relatively small and sleepy town, Khajuraho was once a thriving capital of the Chandela dynasty, during which a huge number of some of the most remarkable temples in India were built. They were constructed about 1000 years ago and all within a single century, which is a phenomenal achievement for that time, involving huge numbers of labourers and craftsmen alike.
The temples themselves have survived well and remain exquisitely carved examples of Indo-Aryan architecture. However they are undoubtedly most famous for the fact that they are generously embellished with explicit sexual images along the lines of the Kama Sutra.
Our preferred hotels in Khajuraho include:
Taj Chandela
Lalit Temple View
Ladakh
Ladakh is located at the very northern tip of India in between the western Himalaya and the Tibetan Plateau. The culture is Buddhist with very close ties to Tibet and has in the past been described as ‘Little Tibet’. There are some excellent trekking routes around the Ladakh and Zanskar Valleys which will bring you into contact with some wonderful stompas, pastures, mountain passes with some stunning views. The best time for trekking here is from July to September when the weather is generally very pleasant and there is no snow blocking the mountain passes.
Our preferred hotels in Ladakh include:
Caravan Serai
Shakti Village Walks
Mysore
Famous for its good climate and beautiful, lush countryside, Mysore has long been a charmed and popular city both to live in and to visit.
Mysore was also the seat of the ruling Maharajahs who, on account of their huge princely state and their resulting wealth, were one of the most extravagant of all India’s ruling families.
The vast and exquisite Indo-Saracenic palace in the heart of the city where their descendants still live to this day, and also the glimmering white summer palace (now the Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel), are just part of the rich historical legacy that remains in Mysore. An ideal place to shop for the city’s famous silks or to wander around the colourful and bustling fruit and vegetable markets with a pervading perfume of sandalwood and other incenses lingering in the air, Mysore is one of southern India’s most charming cities.
Our preferred hotels in Mysore include:
The Windflower
Lalitha Mahal Palace
Rajasthan
A vast land stretching almost from Delhi westwards through the Thar Desert and to the border with Pakistan, Rajasthan was the land of the great Rajput kings and their warriors. For centuries the Rajputs fought to stay in control of this region, until finally the British forced them into submission.
The Maharajahs were allowed to stay on as leaders in their own princely states until modern times, when socialist India forced them to give up their often outrageously extravagant lifestyles. Since this time many of the former royal families have turned their ancestoral forts and palaces into stunning boutique properties where one can really explore the rural side of this vast state.
However their cultural and architectural legacy in Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Jaiselmer is unparalleled and the forts, temples and palaces of the area make Rajasthan one of the most attractive regions of India.
The Palace of Winds in Jaipur, the Meherangarh Fort of Jodhpur, the Lake Palace of Udaipur and the fort of the Golden City of Jaiselmer are just a few of the gems that await any visitor. On account of its proximity to the Thar Desert and its rich tradition of festivals and fairs, Rajasthan can offer a number of other exciting options. Jeep or camel safaris into the desert can be arranged with mobile deluxe camps, as can visits to the Camel Fairs in Pushkar or Bikaner to witness two of the world’s most extraordinary and colourful trading events.
Jaipur – our preferred hotels include:
Samode Palace
Samode Haveli
Rambagh Palace
Oberoi Rajvilas
Amanbagh
Jodphur – our preferred hotels include:
Raas
Umaid Bahwan Palace
Taj Hari Mahal
Udaipur – our preferred hotels include:
Devi Garh
The Leela
Oberoi Udaivilas
Lake Palace
Jaiselmer – our preferred hotels include:
The Serai
The Gateway Hotel Rawalkot
Other properties in remote Rajasthan:
Ramathra Fort (between Agra and Jaipur)
Bainsrogarh Fort (Between Kota and Udaipur)
Shahpura Bagh (between Jodphur and Udaipur)
Ranvas (between Jaipur and Jaiselmer)
Chhatra Sagar (between Ajmer and Jodhpur)
Deogarh Mahal (between Jodhpur and Udaipur)
Rohet Garh and Mihir Garh (south of Jodphur)
Sikkim
Sikkim is a wedge of land in the foothills of the Himalayas, squeezed between Nepal to the west and Bhutan to the east. A world of mountains and monasteries, forests and butterflies, Sikkim is one of the most beautiful places in India in which to go trekking.
The birdlife is prolific and the montane wildflowers grow in profusion; in springtime (March/April) the hills also come alive with the vivid colours of the flowering rhododendrons. The best months to trek here, as in Nepal, are October and November or mid-February to April.
Our preferred hotels in Sikkim include:
Norkhill Hotel
360 Leti
Shakti Village Walks
Varanasi
One of India’s holiest cities, Varanasi is also reputed to be one of the oldest living cities in the world. It has been an important city of learning for thousands of years, but its principal fame lies in the fact that it is located on the banks of the sacred River Ganges.
Every day, Hindu pilgrims come to Varanasi to wash away their sins in these holy waters or even to die, for it is considered an auspicious place from which to pass on directly to heaven instead of continuing in the constant cycle of rebirth.
It is a remarkable city with some beautiful buildings and temples, but the most striking element of any visit is to witness the Hindu pilgrims themselves. Whether bathing or attending the burning ghats the most private rituals of life and death are played out in public, leaving any visitor with a strong sense of humility.
Our preferred hotels in Varanasi include:
Nadesar Palace
Taj Gateway Hotel Ganges
Radisson Hotel
Wildlife National Parks
With a diversity of environments ranging from deciduous forests to savannah grasslands, Himalayan wilderness to coastal swamps and plains, India has some of the most stunning National Parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the world, playing host to a remarkable variety of flora and fauna.
Although the species differ in each park, leopard, tiger, lion, spotted deer, sambur deer, elephant, monkeys, gaur, sloth bears and a dazzling array of birdlife are some of the species that may be seen.
Wildlife activities include elephant-back rides, game drives in jeeps and boat rides, allowing safe and excellent viewing at all times. Sightings of any particular animal or bird can never be guaranteed, especially of the elusive leopard or Royal Bengal tiger, but the months from January until March when most of the country becomes drier and water becomes more scarce, is a good time to visit (some Parks are closed during the monsoon period, normally from July until October).
Ranthambore – our preferred camps & lodges include:
Aman-i-Khas
Vanyavilas
Sawai Madhopur Lodge
Sherbagh
Bandhavgarh – our preferred camps & lodges include:
Samode Safari Lodge
Mahua Kothi
King’s Lodge
Bhandav Vilas
Treehouse Hideaway
Kanha – our preferred camps & lodges include:
Shergarh
Banjaar Tola
Khana Jungle Lodge
Flame of the Forest
Pench – our preferred camps & lodges include:
Baghvan
Pench Jungle Camp
Panna – our preferred camps & lodges include:
Sarai at Toria
Pashan Garh
Satpura – our preferred camps & lodges include:
Forsyth’s Lodge
Reni Pani
Nagarhole – our preferred camps & lodges include:
Orange County
Kabini River Lodge
The Bison
Amarvilas, Agra
Location: Situated a mere 600 metres from the mighty Taj Mahal in the centre of Agra
Rooms: 102 rooms & suites
Facilities: 2 restaurants, bar, swimming pool, Oberoi spa, fitness centre, Wi-Fi, 24 hour butler service
Activities: City tours
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: The best and most exclusive hotel to stay at in Agra and a member of the Small Leading Hotels of the World group but it is expensive. Always worthwhile upgrading to a room with a balcony view of the Taj Mahal
Baghvan, Pench
Location: Baghvan Lodge is located by a lovely stream, surrounded by forest, on the edge of the sprawling Pench National Park
Rooms: 12 suites
Facilities: Dining facility, library, laundry, swimming pool, safari shop, spa services
Activities: Twice daily game drives, guided nature walks, tiger viewing from elephant back, bird watching,
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: A delightful lodge a mere 10 minute drive from the main park gate and one of the & Beyond / Taj properties so impeccable service is guaranteed
Brunton Boatyard, Cochin
Location: Situated in the centre of bustling Fort Cochin with delightful gardens overlooking the harbour
Rooms: 22 rooms & suites all with harbour view
Facilities: 2 restaurants, bar / lounge, delightful outdoor swimming pool, rooftop terrace, library and complimentary WI-Fi in ublic areas
Activities: City tours, sunset and history harbour cruises, guided cycling / walking excursions
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: A really lovely property in an excellent location – beautifully designed and owned by CGH Earth so excellent eco-credentials, food and service
Chhatra Sagar, Nimaj
Location: Located 120kms east of Jodhpur on top of a dam on the shores of a lake
Rooms: 13 Luxury tent, 11 on the dam & 2 on the hillside
Facilities: Dining tent, camp fire, lakeside sun bathing area
Activities: Nature walks, village safaris, bird watching, boating, star gazing, hillside sundowners
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: Lovely accommodation in a delightful spot, this property offers excellent guided bird watching excursions and fascinating village visits.
The Claridges, Delhi
Location: Great location on the Janpath just south of Connaught Circus
Rooms: 137 rooms & suites
Facilities: 4 restaurants including “Sevilla” an award winning Tapas bar, swimming pool, health & beauty centre, bar, club floor and patisserie
Activities: There are many tourist attractions near to the hotel including India Gate, the Eternal Flame, Humyan’s Tomb, the National Museum and National Art Gallery
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: A great location and excellent value for money
Deogarh Mahal, Deogarh
Location: 300 Year old palace found halfway between Jodhpur and Udaipur
Rooms: 50 rooms and suites
Facilities: 2 restaurants, bar, swimming pool, gym and ayurvedic massage
Activities: Vintage car drives, waling, steam train excursion, horse riding, bird watching, boating and cycling
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: An extrememly impressive palace with lots of wonderful sitting areas and quirky rooms in the lovely town of Deodar
Devi Garh, Udaipur
Location: Situated approximately 45 minutes’ drive north of Udaipur in the Aravali Hills
Rooms: 39 rooms and suites
Facilities: Restaurant,numerus wonderful prvate dining venues bar, lovely green marble swimming pool, L’Occitane Spa, fitness centre
Activities: Udaipur city visits, village walks, palace tours, horse and camel safaris, nearby temple visits
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: This 18th century Palace is simply stunning and beautifully designed. We would always recommend the Aravali or the Palace Suites
Forsyth Lodge, Satpura
Location: Forsyth Lodge is situated near the village of Sarangpur, just one kilometre from the northern edge of the Tawa Dam. Located within 44 acres of mostly untouched jungle, the focus here is on the wildlife
Rooms: 12 cottages
Facilities: Dining area, bar and lounge, swimming pool, night vision telescope, bonfire in the evening
Activities: Game drives, walking, safaris, boating, picnics, excursions
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: A wonderful property offering extremely comfortable accommodation, wonderful staff and excellent guides
The Imperial, Delhi
Location: Very centrally located on the Janpath close to shops, restaurants, landmarks, thetres and right next to a metro stop
Rooms: 235 guest rooms including 43 suites
Facilities: Swimming pool, squash courts, beautiful spa, gardens, numerous dining options including the excellent “Spice Routes” restaurant, bar, tea lounge, fitness centre, luxury boutiques, complimentary morning newspaper, 24 hour butler service
Activities: Art and historical tour of the hotel, city tours, nature walks in the gardens, yoga classes & shopping
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: By far our favourite of all the Delhi hotels – impeccable style and service in a beautiful and historic building with a great location
ITC Mughal, Agra
Location: Situated close to the city centre & the Taj Mahal and set in 35 acres of beautiful gardens
Rooms: 233 rooms and suites
Facilities: 3 restaurants, bar, swimming pool, spa and fitness centre, complimentary internet useage at the business centre
Activities: City tours
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: Good location and very reasonably priced for the standard of accommodation and service
Kabini River Lodge, Nagarhole
Location: Kabini River Lodge is located in the southern fringes of the Nagarahole National Park in Karnataka
Rooms: 12 cottages
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, swimming pool. shop selling, night vision binocular, bonfire in the evening, ayurveda treatment
Activities: Safaris, coracle ride, nature walks, boating,
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: Once the hunting lodge of the Maharajah of Mysore this property still retains much of its historical charm
The Leela, Udaipur
Location: Located on the banks of Lake Pichola in Udaipur
Rooms: 80 rooms and suites
Facilities: 2 restaurants, bar, ESPA tented spa, swimming pool, croquet lawn
Activities: City tours and boat rides,yoga, lamp lighting ceremony, cooking classes, private astrology session
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: With each room offering lovely views of the lake this brand new hotel is our favourite in central Udaipur
360′ Leti, Uttarakhand
Location: Situated at over 2400m, 360’ Leti sits on promontory almost in the middle of nowhere. It’s an hour’s walk to the nearest road and there is no modern communication links with the outside world
Rooms: 4 cottages
Facilities: Hot water bottles, wood burning stove, dining room
Activities: Trekking and walking, star gazing, yoga, meditation,
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: Pristine & remote – this property gives new meaning to the phrase “hideaway hotel”
The Maidens Hotel, Delhi
Location: Located to the north of the city in Old Delhi close to the university
Rooms: 55 guest rooms in total
Facilities: Huge swimming pool, gardens, coffe shop, bar and A la Carte restaurant
Activities: City tours
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: One of the oldest hotels in Delhi offering excellent service and very spacious rooms and still exuding that colonial charm. We always request rooms on the newly refurbished 3rd and 4th floors as they are the best. Due to its location it is a good hours’ drive from the International Airport
Malabar House, Cochin
Location: Fort Cochin – very close to main square, fishing nets etc. Very funky & contemporary with lots of bright accent colours
Rooms: 17 rooms and suites
Facilities: Small swimming pool, Ayurvedic Spa, bicycles, restaurant & excellent Tapas bar
Activities: Guided walking/cycling tours, sunset cruises, city tours
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: A really funky and contemporary option in the middle of the old town
Mihir Garh, Rohet
Location: Situated approximatel 1 hours’ drive south of Jodhpur in the Thar desert
Rooms: 9 suites with either private plunge pool or private jacuzzi
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, sunset deck terrace, swimming pool, Tulsi spa
Activities: Camel cart safaris, Equestrian prgrammes, village visits, royal picnics, cookery demonstrations and cassses
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: An unbelievably luxurious and beautiful property. One of our favourite anywhere in the world!
Nadesar Palace, Varanasi
Location: Nadesar Palace is located in the north of Varanasi in lovely gardens
Rooms: 10 rooms and suites
Facilities: Restaurant, astrologer, Jiva spa, swimming pool, 4 hole golf course
Activities: City tours, buggy rides, nature walks, yoga
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: The only heritage hotel in the city – once the guest lodge for the Maharajah of Varanasi & still containing much of his original furniture. Elegant and understated.
Neeleshwar Hermitage, Kerala
Location: On the Arabian Ocean in Northern Kerala
Rooms: 18 individual cottages
Facilities: Swimming pool, beautiful spa offering yoga and ayurveda, gardens, two restaurants, bar
Activities: Backwaters houseboat, cookery classes, nearby forts excursions, yoga classes, hiking, cycling, turtle spotting and bird watching
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: A truly exquisite retreat in this untouched part of Kerala and a member of Relais & Chateau so offering excellent accommodation, facilities and service
The Oberoi Gurgaon, Delhi
Location: Brand new, modern, purpose built hotel conveniently situated just 20 minutes drive from the airport
Rooms: 283 rooms & suites
Facilities: 2 excellent restaurants, bar, cigar lounge, enormous outdoor swimming pool, 24 hour spa and gym
Activities: City tours
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: Beautifully designed and contemporary property offering huge rooms and superb service. A truly world class hotel
Purity, Lake Vembanad
Location: Situated on the shores of Lake Vembanad, this is a colonial style villa set in wonderfully spacious and verdant gardens
Rooms: 8 rooms and suites
Facilities: Distinctive artwork and antiques, swimming pool, spa, lakefront pavilion
Activities: Yoga, ayurvedic spa treatments,cookery classses, backwater cruises, village visits
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: The latest addition to the Malabar Escapes stable – beautifully designed and excellent service
Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
Location: The former residence of the Maharaja the property is located in central Jaipur next to the polo ground
Rooms: 79 rooms and suites
Facilities: 3 restaurants, 2 bars, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, Jiva Spa, fitness centre, walking trail, mini-golf, table tennis & croquet
Activities: City tours, polo, birdwatching, astrology, historical tours of the palace
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: Elegance personified set in beautiful gardens with a fascinating history
Raas, Jodhpur
Location: The only boutique property within the walled old city of Jodhpur
Rooms: 39 rooms and suites
Facilities: 2 restaurants, outdoor pool, jodhur blue autorickshaws for sightseeing, Serena Spa
Activities: City and fort visits, shopping in the bazaars
Children: Minimum age is 1 year
Our view: A fantastic mix of uber-contemporary design and traditional charm with phenomenal views from some of the rooms of the looming Mehrangarh Fort
Ramathra Fort, Karauli
Location: Near Karauli in rural Rajasthan, 5 hours from Jaipur and 2 hours from Ranthambore
Rooms: 6 rooms and suites
Facilities: Restaurant, bar area
Activities: Village walks, hiking, bird watching, boating, day trips to Ranthambore
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: A dreamy little hotel with incredible views – sundowners on the battlements is a truly unique experience
Ranvas, Nagaur
Location: This stunning hotel lies within the ramparts of Nagaur’s magnificent Ahhichatracharh Fort.
Rooms: 33 rooms
Facilities: 2 restaurants, swimming pool (spa, hammam and library to be opened soon)
Activities: Walking on the ramparts, historical tours of the fort complex, city and market tours, camel and jeep excursions, Sufi festival in February
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: An undiscovered gem of a property – live like a Rani in style and comfort
The Serai, Jaisalmer
Location: Situated in desert scrubland 45 minutes’ drive east of Jaisalmer
Rooms: 21 tented suites
Facilities: Fine dining, swimming pool, spa, sitting and bar area, shop
Activities: Bird watching, camel-back safaris, guided tours of the region, sundowners on the sand dunes
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: A gorgeous tented camp decorated with beautiful campaign furniture. We’d always recommend upgrading to the tents with their own private plunge pool
Sarai at Toria, Panna
Location: Located on the banks of the River Ken very close to the main park gate
Rooms: 6 cottages
Facilities: Dining and lounge area, safari shop, spa services
Activities: Game drives in Panna National Park, birding, boat rides and fishing, star gazing, nature walks and village visit
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: A delightful small and rustic lodge with the emphasis on nature
Samode Safari Lodge, Bandhavgarh
Location: Situated just a few minutes’ drive from the newest and most peaceful park entrance at the south of Bandhavgarh National Park
Rooms: 12 bungalows
Facilities: Dining room, art gallery, spa, swimming pool
Activities: Game drives, safaries, ayurvedic massage, bird watching
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: A really beautful lodge – our favourite at Bandhavgarh
Samode Palace, Jaipur
Location: A majestic 475 year old palace situated on a hill in the eastern reaches of the Aravalli Hills, just north of Jaipur
Rooms: 43 rooms and suites
Facilities: 2 restaurants, 2 swimming pools, spa, outdoor jacuzzi, sauna & fitness centre
Activities: City tours, horse riding, jeep & camel safaris, village walks
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: An absolute winner in our minds. A fantastic property which retains all of it’s heritage and charm with excellent service. Please note that it is a 45 minute drive north of Jaipur.
Shergarh, Kanha
Location: Just 3 kms from the Mukki Entrance gate of Kanha National Park.
Rooms: 6 luxury tents
Facilities: Dining room, library of wildlife refrences
Activities: Game drives, mountain biking, nature walk trails, village & community projects
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: A very special camp with fantastic eco-credentials, great guiding and exceptional hosts
Sher Bagh, Ranthambore
Location: At the edge of the Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan a ten minutes drive from the main entrance of the reserve
Rooms: 12 Luxury tents
Facilities: Dining tent, swimming pool, bar cafe, boutique
Activities: Game drives, ayurvedic massage, horse safaris, community profect visits, birdwatching
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: Our favourite property in Ranthambore and exceptionally good value for money
Tikli Bottom, Delhi
Location: Situated 50kms south of Delhi in the state of Haryana off the Delhi-Jaipur highway only 45 minutes from the airport
Rooms: 4 bedrooms in a family run “haveli”
Facilities: A hosted stay in the home of Martin and Annie Howard – all meals and drinks included, swimming pool
Activities: Walking, local village with a school & organic farm, birdwatching and a nearby 18 hole golf course
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our view: A peaceful, private guest house away from the hubub of the city but close enough for day trips to the sights
Description
India boasts a staggering variety of wildlife, including the rare Royal Bengal tiger and a prolific number of birds, both resident and migratory. To spend a few days in a selection of the national parks provides a fascinating insight into its rich and unique wildlife heritage. Those seeking to escape the normal hustle and bustle of everyday life can easily do so by travelling to the Thar Desert of Rajasthan or trekking in the Himalayan foothills of Ladakh or Sikkim. Culturally, artistically and scenically, India is without doubt one of the most diverse, dynamic and exciting countries on earth.
Hill Stations of the Raj
Highlights of this itinerary:
• Calcutta – India’s most compelling city
• The Himalayan Mountain Kingdoms of Sikkim & Darjeeling
• The classic hill station of Shimla
• Experience the hustle & bustle of Old & New Delhi
This is a suggested itinerary and all arrangements can be tailored to your specific requirements
Day 1 – Fly from London
Day 2 – Arrive Calcutta – Oberoi Grand – 2 nights
Day 3 – Full day sightseeing
Day 4 – Fly to Bagdogra, drive to Gangtok – Norkhill Hotel – 2 nights
Day 5 – Full day guided tour of the area
Day 6 – Drive to Darjeeling – Mayfair Hill Resort – 2 nights
Day 7 – Full day sightseeing
Day 8 – Fly to Delhi – Imperial Hotel – 1 night
Day 9 – Train to Chandigarh, drive to Shimla, The Cecil – 3 nights
Days 10 & 11 – Two full days sightseeing
Day 12 – Drive back to Chandigarh, train to Delhi – Imperial Hotel – 2 nights
Day 13 – Full day sightseeing
Day 14 – Transfer for flight to London
2013 price from £1,854 per person
(Price based on two people sharing a twin/double room excluding the cost of international flights London/Calcutta & Delhi/London).
Southern Traders
Highlights of this itinerary:
• Cochin – the most important port for the Malabar Coast ancient spice trade
• Bamboo rafting in Periyar National Park
• Drift serenely along the tranquil Backwaters in your exclusive houseboat
• Immerse yourself in the Arabian Ocean on the untouched beaches of Northern Kerala
This is a suggested itinerary and all arrangements can be tailored to your specific requirements
Day 1 – Fly from London
Day 2 – Arrive Cochin – Brunton Boatyard – 2 nights
Day 3– Half Day sightseeing tour
Day 4 – Drive to Cardoman Hills – Paradisa Plantation – 3 nights
Day 5 –Half day tour of Periyar Game Sanctuary and elephant orphanage visit
Day 6 – At leisure
Day 7 – Drive to Allepey – Houseboat – 2 nights
Day 8 – Cruising the Backwaters
Day 9 – Train to Mangalore – Neeleshwar Hermitage – 5 nights
Days 10 – 13 – At leisure
Day 14 – Flight to Mumbai to connect to departure flight to London
Day 15 – Arrive London Heathrow
2013 price from £1,987 per person
(Price based on two people sharing a twin/double room excluding the cost of international return flights London/ Mumbai/London).
Rajasthan Revealed
Highlights of this itinerary:
• The cities and villages of remote Rajasthan
• Staying at some of the most exquisite heritage properties in the state
• Being hosted by Ravis and Ranis
This is a suggested itinerary and all arrangements can be tailored to your specific requirements
Day 1 – Fly from London
Day 2 – Arrive Delhi – The Imperial – 2 nights
Day 3 – Full day sightseeing
Day 4 – Drive to Jaipur – Samode Palace – 2nights
Day 5 – Full day city tour and Amber Palace
Day 6 – Drive to Ramathra Fort – 2 nights
Day 7 – Optional activities / At leisure
Day 8 – Drive to Bhainsrorgarh- 2 nights
Day 9 – Optional activities / At leisure
Day 10 – Drive to Shapura Bagh – 2 nights
Day 11 – Optional activities / At leisure
Day 12 – Drive to Devi Garh – 2 nights
Day 13 – Morning city tour of Udaipur
Day 14 – Fly to Mumbai, connect to departure flight to Heathrow
2013 price from £1,989 per person
(Price based on two people sharing a twin/double room excluding the cost of international flights London/Delhi/London).
Untouched Splendour of Assam
Highlights of this itinerary:
• Explore this almost undiscovered region of North-East India
• Experience life with the tribes people of Nagaland
• 7 night luxury cruise on the mighty Brahmaputra River
• Visit Kazaringa – India’s largest but least visited National Park
This is a suggested itinerary and all arrangements can be tailored to your specific requirements
Day 1 – Fly from London
Day 2 – Arrive Calcutta – Oberoi Grand – 2 nights
Day 3 – Full day sightseeing
Day 4 – Fly to Dibrugarh, drive to Mon, Nagaland – Camping – 2 nights
Days 5 & 6 – In depth exploration of the tribal villages of the area
Day 7 – Embark the M/V Mahabaahu for a 7 night cruise on the Brahmaputra River
Days 8 – 13 – Cruise of the river including Kazaringa National Park, temples and villages
Day 14 – Fly to Calcutta – Oberoi Grand – 1 night
Day 15 – Transfer for flight to London
2013 price from £2,471 per person
(Price based on two people sharing a twin/double room excluding the cost of return international flights London/Calcutta).
Legacy of Empires
Highlights of this itinerary:
• Accommodation in India’s most luxurious heritage properties
• The historical Rajput kingdoms of Rajasthan
• Immerse yourself in the hussle of the sacred city of Varanasi
• Marvel at the incredible carved temples of Khajuraho
This is a suggested itinerary and all arrangements can be tailored to your specific requirements
Day 1 – Fly from London
Day 2 – Arrive Mumbai – Taj Mahal Hotel – 1 night
Day 3 – Flight to Udaipur – Lake Palace Hotel – 2 nights
Day 4 – Full day sightseeing
Day 5 – Drive to Jodphur, via Ranakpur – afternoon sightseeing – Umaid Bahwan Palace – 2 nights
Day 6 – Full day sightseeing
Day 7 – Drive to Jaipur – Rambagh Palace – 2 nights
Day 8 – Full day sightseeing
Day 9 – Drive to Agra via Fatehpur Sikri – ITC Mughal- 1 night – city tour and evening visit to the Taj Mahal
Day 10 – Train to Jhansi, drive to Khajuraho via the Orchha Temples – Taj Chandela – 1 night
Day 11 – Morning tour of the temple complex, flight to Varanasi – Nadesar Palace – 2 nights
Day 12 – Full day sightseeing
Day 13 – Flight to Delhi – Imperial Hotel 2 nights
Day 14 – Full day sightseeing of Old & New Delhi
Day 15 – Transfer to the airport for flight to London
2013 price from £2,746 per person
(Price based on two people sharing a twin/double room excluding the cost of international flights London/Mumbai & Delhi/London).
A Jungle Odyssey
Highlights of this itinerary:
• The sacred city of Varanasi and the carved temples of Khajuraho
• Go in search of the Royal Bengal Tiger in four of the lesser known Central India Tiger Reserves
• Accommodation in delightful lodges and camps
This is a suggested itinerary and all arrangements can be tailored to your specific requirements
This private, tailor-made itinerary will take you by train, air and road from the historical and cultural wonders of Delhi, Varanasi and Khajuraho to the wonderful and lesser known Central Indian wildlife reserves in search of the Royal Bengal tiger. .
Game viewing is best throughout the dry season between October and May, and especially recommended from January to April when most of the countryside is dry and the vegetation thin.
Day 1 – Fly from London
Day 2 – Arrive Delhi – The Imperial – 2 nights
Day 3 – Full day sightseeing
Day 4 – Fly to Varanasi – afternoon city tour – Nadeshar Palace – 2 nights
Day 5 – Sunrise visit to the Ghats, afternoon at leisure
Day 6 – Fly to Khajuraho – afternoon temple tour – Taj Chandela – 1 night
Day 7 – Drive to Panna National Park – The Sarai at Toria – 2 nights
Day 8 – Game activities
Day 9 – Drive to Bandhavgarh National Park – Samode Safari Lodge – 2 nights
Day 10 – Game Activities
Day 11 – Drive to Khana National Park -Shergarh for 2 nights
Day 12 – Game Activities
Day 13 – Drive to Jabalphur – train to Satpura – Forsyth’s Lodge for 2 nights
Day 14 – Game activities
Day 15 – Drive to Bhopal – Fly to Mumbai – The Leela Kempinski – 1 night
Day 16 – Transfer for flight to Mumbai and on to London
2013 price from £3,177 per person
(Price based on two people sharing a twin/ double room excluding the cost of international flights London / Delhi and Mumbai / London).