India has over one million square miles to explore, its breathtaking landscapes coupled with bustling cities and rural gems make it such an exciting touring destination.
To truly experience the dynamic culture and geography of India, it must be travelled through, not just passed by, and our itineraries are designed to embrace each authentic aspect of the country.
Travelling through India by rail opens the journey up to a colourful map of culture and panoramic views. Modelled on the imperial carriages once used by the Maharajas, the Deccan Odyssey is complete with silk furnishings and opulent decor that promises a rail experience to remember. As part of both our Grand Heritage and Cultural Discovery tours, travelling on the Deccan Odyssey is the perfect way to explore the Agra landscape, the expansive Ranthambore forests, and pay a visit to the Taj Mahal, a true wonder of the world.
Shorter journeys present their own enchantment too. The Toy Trains to Shimla and Ooty, (UNESCO World Heritage lines), glide across hilltops and whisk through forests as we ride in charming vintage carriages. We experience this first-hand on many of our tours, with the opportunity to also travel on modern express trains like the Gatimaan to connect us to fascinating locations like the Agra Fort.
Our rail journeys provide front row seats to India’s living landscape, as we see locals waving from village crossings, tea stalls steaming, and mustard fields glowing in the golden afternoon sun.
To truly uncover some of India’s most enchanting sights, take the journey off land and slow the pace with a voyage down the Brahmaputra River. Our privately chartered riverboat meanders past islands, rural landscapes and villages, lending itself to India’s quieter beauty and allowing access to remote areas. As we cruise, absorb life along the riverbank and disembark to explore historic sites, ancient temples and visit one of Assam’s famous tea estates.
On shore, we also go in search of the wildlife of Kaziranga National Park on a jeep safari, with its One-horned rhinoceros and Bengal tigers, and encounter culturally rich Majuli Island, where we witness music and dance performances used in worship.
Further south, in Kerala, the backwaters around Alleppey offer a similarly intimate excursion. Boarding a private houseboat, crafted from bamboo and coir, we embark on a journey floating through coconut palms, mirror still canals, and lakeside churches. India by boat is unhurried, shaped by the ebb and flow of the water.
In Thekkady, Periyar Lake is home to a vibrant ecosystem, surrounded by the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Admire the views and exotic inhabitants, from elephants to Sambar deer, as we enjoy a relaxing cruise on the lake.
Of course, India’s true spontaneity comes to life on the open road, where every journey unveils something unexpected. The hustle and bustle of city hotspots like Delhi and Amritsar allow for unique discoveries, the once in a lifetime experiences that put you in the right place at the right time. Our rickshaw ride through Old Delhi immerses you in the city’s history, with views of the Red Fort and a visit to the Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India.
Our carefully created routes pair convenience with cultural depth as we’re led by expert drivers and local guides that ensure we arrive not just informed, but connected to our surroundings. From a street-side thali served on a banana leaf to glimpsing the Brihadeshwara Temple rising from Tamil Nadu’s sacred soil, we are fully immersed in the rhythm of local life. Comfort always comes first, with modern air-conditioned coaches taking us to each new destination, enjoying the scenic drives as we journey through the landscape.
Many itineraries also feature jeep tours that embrace our Indian adventure, from going in search of Bengal tigers in Ranthambore to spotting rare Asiatic lions in Gir National Park, these thrilling safari experiences add a fascinating dimension. A guided jeep tour also provides a unique way to visit UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Amber Fort, where we experience the Indian terrain and approach this historic monument against the backdrop of picturesque pink hills.
Did You Know?
The Deccan Odyssey is one of India’s most prestigious trains, inspired by the décor of carriages that hosted royalty and aristocrats in years gone by. The deep blue train features plush suites, an onboard spa, gourmet dining, and a lounge bar – all while gliding through the country’s diverse landscapes.
Our Grand Tour of India weaves together all three travel styles – rail, road, and sail – for a truly immersive 25-day journey into the heart of the subcontinent.
The Brahmaputra is one of the few major rivers that changes names and flows through three countries
– it’s called Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet, Brahmaputra in India, and Jamuna in Bangladesh.
India is home to more than 1,600 spoken languages, making it one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world.
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