India Tours & Vacations

Due to India's size and topography, the climate varies from place to place but the best time to visit, generally speaking, is in the winter from December until early March. During the coolest months (December-January), temperatures can get quite cold in Delhi and in the north, especially at night. The whole country tends to get very hot from April onwards and most regions experience the summer from late May to around October. The summer offers hot and humid conditions, although this is considered one of the best times to visit Ladakh and the hills.

Learn more about the best time to visit India

As one of the world’s oldest civilizations, India’s culture is steeped in ancient beliefs and traditions. About 80% of the population is Hindu, and its religious traditions permeate daily life. The world’s second-largest Muslim population can also be found in India, as well as notable Christian, Sikh and Buddhist populations.

While India is a deeply conservative nation, it has been touched by rapid modernization and western influences. Traditionally generations lived together, with the eldest male at the head of the family and marriages arranged between families, but these practices have gradually fallen out of favor, particularly in urban cities. Bollywood films – notorious for their elaborate dance sequences and lengthy run times – have played a role due to the increasingly risque choice of wardrobe and choreography. However, for all of India’s changes, public displays of affection are still taboo.

The country that brought the world yoga and Ayurveda medicine continues to place a high value on spirituality. Family ties, though changing in nature, continue to be important as well. But it’s important to keep in mind that with more than one billion people speaking over 122 languages across 28 states and seven territories, it’s impossible to describe one unified culture for the entire nation, and the character or ‘culture’ of its people can vary greatly from city to city.

1. Agra

Surely there isn't a more iconic image of India than the Taj Mahal. It's spectacular, it's soul-stirring, but words simply aren't enough to describe the beauty of this immense mausoleum (even when it's packed with tourists). Best known as a monument to love and loss, the 17th-century building was built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a tomb for his second wife – a bold declaration of love, indeed!

Taj Mahal Extension, 3 days

North India Highlights, 9 days

Real Kathmandu to Delhi, 15 days

2. Udaipur, Rajasthan

Welcome to Udaipur, India's most romantic city that could easily give Venice a run for its money. There's no doubt you'll fall in love as you explore its grand marble palaces, shimmering lakes, and winding alleys filled with cozy chai bars and dizzying bazaars. It's also a popular hub for Indian artists, dancers, and musicians whose talents will pull you deeper under Udaipur's spell.

Delhi to Goa, 15 days

India Real Food Adventure, 15 days

Rajasthan Experience, 15 days

Classic Rajasthan, 15 days

3. Ranthambhore National Park

Ranthambhore National Park was once a famous hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur, but these days it's a haven for wildlife. Jump into a 4WD and search for Bengal tigers, hyenas, jackals, deer, langurs, marsh crocodiles and more. You can also hike up to the stunning ruins of the 10th-century fort or experience the peace and tranquility of the ancient Ganesh temple (one of the oldest temples in India).

Premium India in Depth, 14 days

Classic Rajasthan, 15 days

Northern India Family Holiday, 10 days

4. Kerala Backwaters

Surrounded by tea and coffee plantations and connected by a series of blissful, palm-shaded backwaters, Kerala is a peaceful oasis nestled deep within the colorful chaos of India. Float along the dreamy waters of rural Kerala on a houseboat, paddle over to an island village on a pole boat for an overnight homestay with a local family, and enjoy traditional Keralan food served on a banana leaf.

Iconic India, 37 days

Premium South India, 13 days

Classic South India, 13 days

Southern India, 15 days

5. Varanasi

Varanasi is a place that will be etched in your memory long after your time in India is over. Uncover the stories and secrets of this holy city with your local guide, get lost in the laneways, cruise along the golden Ganges at dawn, or witness ancient religious traditions and groups of pilgrims praying in the river. Even if all you do in Varanasi is sit along the ghats and watch life go by, you'll walk away with countless stories to tell.

Varanasi Homestay Extension, 4 days

Northern India Highlights, 9 days

India Getaway, 11 days

Real North India, 11 days

6. Pushkar

This holy, desert city is one of the main pilgrimage destinations for Hindus. Explore the bustling ghats and temples around Pushkar Lake, watch devout rituals and worship at the Brahma Temple, share a meal with a local family while learning about their life and culture, or hike up the hill to the beautiful Savitri Temple for unbeatable sunrise views over the town.

Delhi to Goa, 15 days

Classic Rajasthan, 15 days

Real Rajasthan, 16 days

North India Revealed, 22 days

Cycle Rajasthan, 15 days

7. Mumbai

Get ready for delicious bites and lots of Bollywood. Some say Mumbai is the food capital of India, and you'll see, smell and taste huge culinary diversity here that celebrates regional cuisines from across the country. You might also like to watch life go by at Dhobi Ghat (the world’s largest outdoor laundry), check out the Bollywood Walk of Fame, or explore the sprawling Crawford Market selling everything from fruit to jewelry.

India Real Food Adventure, 15 days

Delhi to Goa, 15 days

8. Dharamsala

The mountainous Himalayan town of Dharamsala, also known as McLeod Ganj, is home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile. Tibetan culture is central to life here and it won't take long for the town's calming, grounding energy to wash over you. Sip chai and watch robed monks strolling between the monasteries, listen to the prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and visit the Dalai Lama’s temple.

Mountains & Mystics of India, 13 days

Best of India, 19 days

9. Rishikesh

Not only is Rishikesh the yoga capital of the world, but it's also one of the best places to experience the sacred soul of the Ganges. Join a yoga or meditation class along the riverbanks, enjoy delicious vegetarian food in one of the many rooftop cafes, go white-water rafting down the Ganges for a different perspective of this holy river, or experience the nightly fire ritual known as Ganga Aarti at one of the city's dazzling temples.

Mountains & Mystics of India, 13 days

Best of India, 19 days

10. Goa

Tinged with Portuguese influence (and flavors!), the state of Goa boasts lovely beaches, rich traditions, World Heritage-listed buildings and mouth-watering food. Kick back with a coconut (or cocktail), join a yoga class on the beach, visit a local spice farm to learn about some of the essential ingredients in Indian cuisine, or pick up fresh ingredients at the market and cook up a storm with a local Goan cook.

Delhi to Goa, 15 days

Iconic India, 37 days

South India Revealed, 16 days

India Real Food Adventure, 15 days

11. Jaipur

The gorgeous pink stone buildings in Jaipur’s old town have earned the city the nickname the 'Pink City'. Discover buzzing bazaars filled with handcrafted textiles and jewelry, dodge camel carts and rickshaws as you stroll through the streets, explore the oh-so-impressive Amber Fort, or visit the home of a local Brahmin family to learn about their culture and way of life over a delicious homemade meal.

Northern India Highlights, 9 days

India's Golden Triangle, 8 days

Northern India Family Holiday, 10 days

Indian Getaway, 11 days

India: Women's Expedition, 12 days

Premium India in Depth, 14 days

12. Mysore

Home to the magnificent Mysore Palace and the birthplace of Ashtanga yoga, there's no denying Mysore is one of South India's most captivating cities. Lose yourself in the grandeur of the palace's ornately decorated rooms, marvel at the intricate Hoysala architecture of Keshava Temple, go on a hunt for the tastiest idli, or share a tasty biryani lunch with a local family.

South India Revealed, 16 days

Southern India, 15 days

13. Delhi

Delhi is a place where ancient temples stand beside Bollywood billboard ads, people commute to work alongside sacred cows and monkeys, and pockets of peace exist within the chaos. The electric energy of India's capital city is palpable, and while it can take some getting used to, there's no denying the excitement of discovering new sights, sounds, tastes and smells at every turn – especially when you have a local leader by your side.

Delhi to Kathmandu, 15 days

Real Kathmandu to Delhi, 15 days

North India Highlights, 9 days

Rajasthan Experience, 15 days

14. Thar Desert, Rajasthan

Check another item off your bucket list as you travel across the pristine dunes of the Thar Desert on camelback, stopping at a few dhanis (small villages) along the way. When you reach your camp, enjoy dinner in the relaxing desert ambiance before sleeping under the stars in a comfy permanent tent. This desert safari is bound to be one of the main highlights of your adventure.

Rajasthan Experience, 15 days

Real Rajasthan, 16 days

North India Revealed, 22 days

India: Women's Expedition, 12 days

Rajasthan Adventures, 11 days

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating. Whether you're sampling street food, savoring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. Indian food is one of the world's most favored cuisines, and travelers will be in for a real treat when visiting India. Relying heavily on spices and vegetables, vegetarians will be delighted with the multitude of meat-free dishes available and visitors will be able to notice marked differences in the cuisines of each region.

Read more about Indian food

Read more about Indian drinks

India shares land borders with Bangladesh, China, Pakistan, Nepal, Myanmar and Bhutan, and also has wide stretches of coastline along the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean. As the seventh largest country in the world, India is home to a variety of terrains - the Himalayas of the north, the deserts and plains of the west, the fertile waterways of the south and the hills and forests of the east. Development is occurring at a rapid pace, with India's large, sprawling cities consisting of everything from five star hotels to shanty towns, and with modern malls and cinemas sitting comfortably alongside bazaars and street food vendors. A trip through India will reveal a diverse range of landscapes, villages, cities and environments.

Early History

India has been inhabited by humans for as long as 75,000 years, with early civilizations flourishing as early as 3300 BC. Subsequent civilizations showed advanced technology and infrastructure, with drainage systems and houses made of brick appearing sometime between 2600 and 1900 BC. Over the centuries, India both influenced and was influenced by other nations and kingdoms, with far-reaching trade, conquest and migration spreading the subcontinent's culture far and wide. Trading with the Romans, Persians and Greeks ensured that Indian culture had an impact on civilizations that seemed worlds away. Empires rose and fell over the centuries, with the wealthy Mughal Dynasty ruling most of India by 1600. At the same time, different European nations started showing an interest in India after being brought to the area for trade. The Portuguese, Dutch, British and French all had vested interests in India, with the British East India Company being given the rights to trade in India in 1617. The 1857 rebellion and War of Independence culminated in the decline of Mughal rule and were considered the first movements against the British Raj's heavy-handed rule of the country. India's independence movement continued to grow and soon changed the face of India's future.

Recent History

By the 1920s, India's independence movement had grown considerable momentum with Mohandas Gandhi leading mass movements based on passive resistance and non-cooperation against the British Raj. Although it took decades, India finally gained independence in 1947. More recently, India has seen dramatic changes in society mainly due to modernization and globalization. A new wave of prosperity has seen the rise of the middle class, with men and women entering into new work roles in telecommunications, manufacturing and business. India's large cities are dealing with the mass migration of rural citizens, who are moving to the city to seek better employment, education and opportunities for their children. Delhi successfully hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2010, further putting India on the map as an increasingly cosmopolitan, modern country.

Top 10 Sensory Experiences of India

1. Potent Pleasures

Breathe in the intoxicating aroma of fresh spices while wandering through the bustling markets of India. Cardamom, coriander, cinnamon and nutmeg are classic spices of the subcontinent and aren't hard to find - the fresh scent envelopes markets across the country.

2. Fiery Flavours

Treat your tastebuds to the spicy flavors of India with a traditional aromatic curry. Indulge in the heady mix of coconut milk, chili, ginger, ghee and spices, then cool down by sipping on a refreshing Lassi - the perfect antidote to the unrelenting heat of an Indian curry.

3. Colourful Chaos

Experience the urban cacophony of Delhi - a unique collision of cultures, cattle and people. Hear the rumble of cars, trucks and buses, the frantic calls of street vendors and hawkers, the sizzle of food and the rustic ring of a cow's bell in this unforgettable and irrepressible city.

4. In The Pink

Admire the dazzling pink hues of Jaipur. Watch the historic palaces, forts, temples and monuments of the 'Pink City' be bathed in a dusky pink glow as the golden sun sets over the dramatic Aravalli Range.

5. Rat Race

Walk barefoot through the Karni Mata Temple as thousands of rats scamper across the marble floor. Just felt a furry rodent scurry over your feet? Fear not - it's a sign of good luck in this unique rat-worshipping temple.

6. Instant Karma

Experience the multi-sensory wonder of an Aarti ceremony on the banks of the Ganges. Hear the clanging of bells, watch the luminous glow of fire, smell wafts of pungent incense and hear rousing devotional songs and mantras. Be immersed in the fire and prayer of this Hindu ritual and be changed forever.

7. Gorgeous Goa

Sit beachside in Goa and gaze into the sublime beauty of the ocean. Take a moment to kick back and soak up the clear skies and deep blue sea of this exotic island. Watch the sun's rays shimmer on the horizon and bask in the golden glow of this balmy retreat.

8. Silky Sophistication

For a slice of extravagance, feel the soft, luxurious touch of traditional Indian silk. Made in a variety of vibrant colors and perfect for making everything from saris to prayer mats and decorative hangings to upholstery, the inimitable feel of finely crafted silk is a simple pleasure in life.

9. Answered Prayers

Hear the flutter of prayer flags as they flap in the wind near the isolated monasteries of Dharamsala. In a stark environment of rugged, mountainous landscapes, quietness permeates the air, except for the unique sound of prayer flags collecting prayers and sending them to the heavens above.

10. Big Screen Brilliance

Be treated to a feast for the senses at a bombastic Bollywood movie screening. Covet the glamorous costumes, marvel at the energetic choreography and delight in the lively music. Revel in the razzle-dazzle of the whole spectacle and be swept away by the irresistible charm of India's triumphant cinematic phenomenon.

India's fragrant bazaars, modern boutiques and village markets are brimming with wares harnessing centuries of artistic traditions. With talented artisans and top quality items at low prices, India is a shopper's paradise.


It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in India

1. Jewelry

From big, chunky ornate silver earrings to vibrant bangles and bold statement rings, India's silversmiths and jewelry makers ensure there are lots of pieces to choose from in the bazaars and shops.

2. Wraps, Scarves and Shawls

Whether you're looking for pricey pashmina, luxurious silk or colorful cotton, India has a huge variety of materials to wrap yourself in.

3. Tea

If you're lucky enough to be able to bring tea into your home country, then pick up some of the world's finest tea from the Darjeeling, Assam or Nilgiri regions.

4. Linen

Indian cotton sheets, embroidered bedspreads and colorful cushion covers can be picked up in bazaars at a fraction of the price paid elsewhere.

Many shops are open between 9 am and 7 pm, Monday through Saturday, though hours can vary at bazaars. Most shops are closed on Sunday.

Many of India’s biggest festivals are religious and follow either the Indian lunar calendar or the Islamic calendar. The dates may change each year, but the fervor of celebration never does. Some of the best and biggest festivals to keep an eye out for in India are:

Holi (Festival of Colour)

Take a whole lot of colored powder and water, add thousands of happy people not afraid to get a little (or a lot) dirty and you have Holi – a technicolor Hindu celebration that marks the beginning of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Celebrations take place across India in either February or March.

Diwali (Festival of Lights)

India’s biggest festival – meaning ‘rows of lighted lamps’, people decorate their homes with colorful lights, candles are lit and firework displays take place across the country. The celebrations are particularly spectacular in Varanasi, where illuminated candles and earthen lamps are floated down the Ganges River as fireworks light up the sky. This five-day festival takes place every October or November.

Gujarat Kite Festival

Large, colorful and unusual kites flood the skies of Gujarat each January to commemorate the start of summer and the beginning of harvest. Purchase your own at Patang Bazaar, a famous kite market, or just watch the others dance through the sky.

Mumbai Ganesh Festival

The birth of the elephant-headed god, Ganesh, is celebrated for 10-days each August or September in cities across India, but Mumbai takes it to another level. An incredible energy can be felt throughout the city as people pack the streets for a massive party and an elaborate statue of Ganesh is paraded around.

Pushkar Camel Fair

Thousands of camels (and their owners dressed in their finest garb) descend upon Rajasthan's Pushkar for the annual camel fair. Camels are traded and raced, acrobats and performers entertain crowds at a nearby fair, while finely dressed males and bejeweled females take the chance to let their hair down.

Learn more about festivals in India

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or, see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a variety of locations around India. The options below may be of interest:

Kathmandu to Delhi

Tours From Delhi

Tours to Delhi