Vast, diverse, deeply spiritual and utterly unforgettable, India is unlike anywhere else on earth – a melting pot of ethnicities and religions, a treasure trove of history and culture, and a curious mixture of chaos and serenity. Stretching across more than three million square kilometres, it encompasses a staggering array of landscapes, vistas and environs, and offers unparalleled travel experiences – from the beautiful beaches of Goa, to the compelling craziness of Kolkata, the sacred Ganges river banks of Varanasi, the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in Kashmir and the ancient, exquisitely crafted temples dotted across the entire country. Not to mention the vibrant, friendly people, and the incredible cuisine.
India’s capital, New Delhi, lies on the Indo-Gangetic Plain, within the National Capital Territory of Delhi. Made up of the ancient walled city of Old Delhi and the more modern sector, New Delhi, the city encompasses a staggering array of beautiful buildings, including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the grand, sandstone Red Fort, striking Qutab Minar, and fascinating Humayun's Tomb. Architecture enthusiasts will delight in the iconic Lotus Temple. Hear ‘qawwalis’ (devotional music) at the dargah (tomb) of the Sufi saint Nizam-ud-din Auliya; or wander through the 17th century Chandni Chowk marketplace – still one of the city’s most popular retail centres today, famous for its traditional jewellery and saris. The gorgeous Sunder Nursery and Lodi Garden provide calm, flower-filled oases for picnicking.
Set in Uttarakhand’s picturesque Nainital District, roughly 22 kilometres from Nainital Town, Bhimtal is home to an extraordinary lake, an array of outdoor sports opportunities, and rich heritage. One of the largest in the district, the Bhimtal Lake provides an incredibly idyllic location for boating and enjoying sundowners at the restaurant on its island. The lush and serene forests at its edges and the large Victorian dam and flower garden at its end are perfect for leisurely strolls. With its ravines decorated with wild raspberry and dog rose, citrus trees and terraced fields, the area offers plenty more to explore - thrill seekers and photographers will enjoy activities such as paragliding and other adventure sports. Make sure to visit the fascinating Folk Culture Museum - also known as Lok Sanskriti Sangrahalaya - filled with ancient wooden artefacts, archaeological finds, and information about local sacred rituals.
Set in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, 25 kilometres from Almora, Binsar is a haven for nature lovers and an ideal destination for those seeking an escape. The breathtaking Himalayan panorama visible from the ‘Zero Point’ tower includes views of Kedarnath, Trishul, Nanda Devi, Panchachuli and more. The Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to over 200 bird species, as well as a diverse range of flora and fauna, is a must-see when visiting Binsar. One of the most popular activities here is hiking through the lush, evergreen forest, and it is also possible to camp, or take more leisurely nature walks. The Nanda Devi festival, where the goddess Nanda Devi is worshipped, is a spectacular three-week-long festival that provides a wonderful way to discover more of the Binsar culture.
This picturesque district in Kumaun offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Himalayas and is considered the cultural heart of the state of Uttarakhand. It was here in Almora that choreographer and dancer Uday Shankar set up his dance academy in 1938 that attracted many famous Indian and French dancers. Nature lovers can enjoy day trips to the Deer Park and Martola, both ideal picnicking sites, or take part in the Village Walk, which will introduce them to a slice of Almora village life as it winds through the town, along streams and through cedar and pine forests.
Own Arrangement
As previously described
Situated in northern India’s Uttarakhand State, Jim Corbett National Park forms part of the larger Corbett Tiger Reserve and is the oldest national park in India. This forested wildlife sanctuary is known for its rich variety of fauna and flora. Established in 1936 to protect the endangered Bengal tiger, the park is an ecotourism destination which offers visitors exhilarating wildlife safaris, rich biodiversity and breath-taking landscapes. It is home to an abundance of wildlife including: 110 kinds of trees, 50 species of mammals, 25 species of reptiles as well as over 600 species of birds such as the crested serpent eagle, blossom-headed parakeet and the red junglefowl. Visitors can enjoy several activities including jungle safaris, bird watching, trekking and fishing.
An important ancient and holy city south of Rishikesh, Hardiwar enjoys a picturesque position on the banks of the River Ganges in North India's Uttarakhand state. After its 253 kilometre journey from its source at the Gangotri Glacier in the Himalayas, Haridwar is the first town to meet the sacred river after its mountainous course. The town bustles with locals and renunciants who perform ritualistic bathing in the icy, fast-flowing waters to wash away their sins. The famous Har-ki-Pairi Ghat is a religious hub, where every evening, a sea of floating candles and flowers are sent down the river as Hindu prayer offerings. Due to its significance as a Hindi pilgrimage site, worshipers from far and wide flock to the city during major festivals, including the annual Kanwar Mela.
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Set on the banks of the Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh, Agra is a beautiful city famous for its incredible Taj Mahal building, one of the seven wonders of the world. Commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 15th century as a memorial to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this is an architectural masterpiece of exquisite craftsmanship and perfect proportions. The city boasts numerous other superb attractions, including the red-hued sandstone Agra Fort, built in the 16th century; the Shahi Jama Masjid mosque, a 17th-century congregational mosque located in the historic core of Agra, and Itmad-ud-Daulah’s tomb, with its white marble facade embellished with intricate inlaid designs, also called the' Baby Taj'.
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