The Indian Subcontinent in one word is ‘diversity’. After all, it lays claim to both the Himalaya at the roof of the world and the Maldives, which lie flush against the lapping ocean. Our specialists can plan your India and the Himalaya vacation to make the most of the medley of experiences available. Even getting around can be an adventure — we can recommend river cruises, multi-day treks and mountain railway journeys to show you the region from another vantage.
Indians have a saying, ‘atithi devo bhava’ (‘guest is god’), and you’ll be warmly welcomed whether you’re staying in a converted palace, jungle camp or Keralan family home. This remains constant wherever you are, be it the deserts of India, Nepali mountains, Bhutanese monasteries or the tropical idylls of Sri Lanka and the Maldives. And, as a home to more than 2,000 ethnic groups, here you’ll encounter a range of cultures in a subcontinent where traditions remain strong and religion is part of day-to-day life.
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Trip ideas in India & the Himalaya
These itineraries will give you a starting point for what your trip could entail. They cover routes that we've found work particularly well and feature some of our favorite places to stay. Treat them just as inspiration, as each trip is created uniquely for you and there are many more options available.
Our expert guides to exploring India & the Himalaya
Capturing our specialists’ extensive travel experience in India & the Himalaya, these guides share inspiration, recommendations and our honest advice for how to enjoy the best of what the region can offer in the most authentic ways. From the wealth of options we describe, you can narrow down the choices and start to shape your own trip.
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Summer in India: Ladakh ![Thiksey Monastery in Leh, Ladakh]()
Summer in India: Ladakh
Summer in India: Ladakh
Considering India between June and September? India specialist James explains that, while much of the country is too hot or wet to visit, it’s the ideal time of year to explore mountainous Ladakh, a region of high-altitude deserts, Buddhist monasteries and sheer-sided mountains.
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India’s western foothills ![Amritsar's Golden Temple]()
India’s western foothills
India’s western foothills
With sacred Hindu and Sikh temples, remnants of British colonialism and a thriving Tibetan community, India’s western Himalaya hold a raft of experiences. India specialist Andy gives his take on visiting the region, from the hill town of Shimla to the holy city of Haridwar.
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What to do in Kerala: our highlights guide ![Alleppey Backwaters, Kerala]()
What to do in Kerala: our highlights guide
What to do in Kerala: our highlights guide
Kerala’s slow pace of life is a gentle introduction to India, with tranquil backwaters, manicured tea plantations and fishing villages to explore. India specialist Tara lends her advice for how to make the most of your time there.
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Which island? An Indian Ocean comparison guide ![Mauritius]()
Which island? An Indian Ocean comparison guide
Which island? An Indian Ocean comparison guide
Deciding between the Indian Ocean’s Maldives, Seychelles and Mauritius can be a challenge. Our specialists compare the trio in this guide, concentrating on what sets each destination apart, as well as tips for couples, honeymooners, families and those eager to snorkel or dive.
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Spirituality in India: witnessing India’s major faiths ![Aarti prayer ceremony, Haridwar]()
Spirituality in India: witnessing India’s major faiths
Spirituality in India: witnessing India’s major faiths
India specialist Sophie explores one captivating facet of India: its spirituality. She suggests where to witness India’s faiths, and outlines a journey that could take you from the mosques of Delhi to Himalaya foothills and the banks of the Ganges.
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India’s wildlife: our safari guide to the central parks ![A mother tiger with her adolescent cub in Bandhavgarh National Park]()
India’s wildlife: our safari guide to the central parks
India’s wildlife: our safari guide to the central parks
India specialist Samantha explains why central India’s national parks are ideal for a wildlife vacation. She recommends how to experience the best tiger safari, and where you might glimpse sloth bears and leopards.
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River cruises in India ![Varanasi, India]()
River cruises in India
River cruises in India
Take in the history, wildlife and culture of northeast India on a river cruise. Our India specialist Sarah shares some of her favorite things to see and do while cruising along the Brahmaputra, Ganges and Hugli rivers.
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Festivals of Bhutan ![Paro tsechu, Bhutan]()
Festivals of Bhutan
Festivals of Bhutan
Festivals are very important to Bhutanese people, they're a great excuse to celebrate and socialize. We can highly recommend incorporating a festival into your tailor-made trip to Bhutan, as an ideal way of immersing yourself in the country's culture.
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Luxury train journeys through India ![The Maharajas' Express Train]()
Luxury train journeys through India
Luxury train journeys through India
India specialist and former Mumbai resident Alison shares her experiences of luxury train journeys in India. She has picked out some of the most interesting routes and explains why they’re a fascinating way to explore India.
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