India

India offers an array of experiences for every holidaymaker. These must-do activities will give you a deeper understanding of the country’s history and culture.

• See the Taj Mahal: Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Taj Mahal, a white marble mausoleum renowned for its architectural splendour and symbolic love story.
  
• Explore the ghats of Varanasi: Immerse yourself in the spiritual heart of India by witnessing the sunrise ceremony along the Ganges River in Varanasi. Observe the rituals and witness the serenity of this ancient city.
  
• Hike the Himalayas: Challenge yourself with a trek through the majestic Himalayas, encountering breathtaking mountain scenery, diverse flora and fauna and the rich culture of the mountain villages.
  
• Cruise the backwaters of Kerala: Glide through the tranquil backwaters of Kerala on a traditional houseboat. You’ll see lush greenery, unique local villages and abundant birdlife while exploring this serene network of canals and lakes.
  
• Discover the ruins of Hampi: Delve into the rich history of the Vijayanagara Empire by exploring the ruins of Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the architectural marvels like temples, palaces and bazaars scattered amongst the landscape.
  
• Seek blessings at the Golden Temple: Experience the spiritual significance of the Golden Temple in Amritsar, the holiest shrine for Sikhs. Soak up views of the gold-plated dome and the peaceful atmosphere as pilgrims immerse themselves in prayer.
  
• Learn yoga in the Rishikesh Valley: Unwind and learn the ancient practice of yoga in the spiritual centre of Rishikesh. Nestled along the Ganges River, Rishikesh offers a variety of yoga retreats and ashrams catering to all levels.

India is full of diverse regions with towns, villages and resorts each offering a unique experience.

• Agra: Home to the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra is a must-visit for anyone travelling to India. This historical city stuns visitors with its architectural marvels like Agra Fort, Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb and the Mughal Gardens. Beyond the monuments, explore the vibrant markets and bazaars, while experiencing the local culture.
  
• Jaipur, Rajasthan: Also known as the ’Pink City’ because of the dominant colour of its buildings, Jaipur is a bright and colourful city. Explore its majestic forts like Amber Fort and Jaigarh Fort, marvel at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) and get lost in the bustling streets of the old city. Jaipur is a shopper's paradise, famous for its gems, textiles and handicrafts.
  
• Udaipur, Rajasthan: Often called the ’City of Lakes’, Udaipur offers a romantic escape with its serene network of waterways, majestic palaces and charming gardens. Take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, visit the City Palace and Lake Palace, or wander through the Jagdish Temple complex.
  
• Goa: Goa is synonymous with stunning beaches, laid-back vibes and a lively nightlife scene. Explore the beaches of Calangute, Baga or Palolem, offering water sports activities, delicious seafood and beach shacks galore. Goa also has a rich Portuguese colonial influence, evident in its churches and architecture.
  
• Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: Experience the spiritual significance of the Ganges River in Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world. Witness the sunrise ceremony along the Ganges, observe the traditional rituals like aarti (prayer with offerings) and delve into the rich history and culture of this ancient city.
  
• Mumbai: Discover this buzzing city centre and explore the iconic Gateway of India, a historic arch monument built during the British Raj. Take a stroll along Marine Drive, a picturesque promenade along the Arabian Sea known as the Queen’s Necklace and check out the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.

India is a land full of flavours. The cuisine varies greatly across the country, with each region boasting its specialities and unique dishes.

• Fine dining with a modern twist: Indian Accent in New Delhi is a contemporary restaurant renowned for its innovative take on traditional Indian cuisine. Expect modern presentations, unexpected flavour combinations all within an elegant dining experience.
  
• High-end culinary journey: The Bombay Canteen in Mumbai is a popular spot for an upscale dining experience with a trendy vibe. Their menu offers a creative fusion of Indian street food favourites with a global influence.
  
• Goan paradise: Goa, a coastal state on the western Indian coast, is a paradise for seafood lovers. Enjoy fresh, succulent seafood dishes infused with the unique flavours at The Fisherman’s Wharf.
  
• Street-food paradise: For a true taste of Indian street food, explore the bustling streets of Mumbai, Delhi or any major city. Sample a variety of savoury and sweet treats from vendors, like samosas, chaat, dosa and jalebis.
  
• Kerala backwater feasts: While cruising the backwaters of Kerala, don't miss the opportunity to indulge in a traditional Keralan feast served on a houseboat. Freshly prepared dishes using local ingredients like coconut and seafood will tantalise your taste buds.
  
• Dhaba delights: Dhabas are roadside eateries, a common sight along highways in India. They offer simple yet flavourful meals, perfect for a quick and authentic taste of local cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to try their signature dal makhani and butter naan.
  
• Eat at local markets: Explore the vibrant local markets across India to discover a treasure trove of fresh ingredients, spices and regional specialities. Sample local snacks and street food for a delightful and affordable culinary adventure.

Family holidays to India

India’s stunning landscape and array of activities make it a great destination for families with children. Here are some top attractions you can’t miss on your next family holiday:

• Ride the toy train to Shimla: A ride on the historic toy train to Shimla is a must-do experience on a family holiday to India. Kids will love the charming narrow-gauge railway that winds through stunning mountain scenery and passes through 102 tunnels and crosses over 864 bridges.
  
• Take a historic India tour: You’ll get a taste for India’s culture through visits to historical sites like forts, palaces and temples. Places like Agra Fort, Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) or Meenakshi Temple offer stunning architecture, interesting stories and interactive elements that will capture children's imaginations.
  
• Learn about local crafts: Witness the work of skilled artisans across India. Watch carpet-weaving demonstrations or pottery making, or be mesmerised by the intricate details of miniature paintings. Many workshops even allow children to try their hand at these traditional crafts.
  
• Puppet shows and folk performances: Immerse yourselves in the vibrant world of Indian performing arts. Children will be captivated by colourful puppet shows, traditional dance performances and storytelling sessions that showcase India's rich cultural heritage.
  
• Enjoy the beaches: India boasts stunning coastlines with beaches perfect for families. Build sandcastles, go for a swim or learn to surf at beaches like Goa's Calangute Beach or Kerala's Kovalam Beach. Many beach resorts offer water sports activities, children's pools and other amenities to keep the whole family entertained.
  
• Visit an amusement park: India has several amusement parks offering a variety of rides, shows and attractions suitable for all ages. Popular options include Imagica near Mumbai or Wonderla in Bangalore, providing a fun-filled day for the whole family.
  
• Go on a rickshaw ride: Weave through bustling streets and vibrant markets on a rickshaw ride. It’s a great way to get a close up of everyday life and see ancient temples, colonial buildings and lively bazaars.
  
• Visit during India’s holidays: An unforgettable way to experience India is visiting during 2 key festivals: Diwali and Holi. You’ll see joyful celebrations, fireworks and delicious sweets during Diwali, while coloured powders fill the air along with music, dancing and communal celebrations during Holi.