It’s hard to go wrong with the forts in India. All that history and battle-ready architecture is a sure-fire hit, especially with kids! These forts also tend to have grounds that are great to let your child role-play in!
Gwalior Fort
Across the country’s vast expanse, there are so many of them that it’s actually difficult to tell exactly how many forts are in India. Exploring the beautiful forts of India is one of the best family vacation ideas, with each one telling a more interesting story than the last.
1. The Red Fort, Delhi
At the top of the list is one of the best-preserved forts in India. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Red Fort is also one of the most beautiful forts of India. And also a great answer to the question: ‘what can kids see in Delhi?’. Built-in 1639, it served as the seat of the Mughal empire for over 200 years. It’s majestic red sandstone walls and ornate ramparts, make it the perfect location for the Prime Minister of India to address the nation every Independence Day.
Red Fort, Delhi
2. Mehrangarh, Jodhpur
Rajasthan has some of the most opulent palaces and forts in India, and Mehrangarh is a prime example. Towering 400 feet above the Jodhpur skyline, it is also a popular ziplining destination, ticking another box for great family vacation ideas. Showcasing varied forms of architecture, the fort and its palaces were built and renovated over 500 years. There are many galleries exhibiting valuable artefacts.
Mehrangarh is a treasure trove of information and a great learning experience for children if they’re so inclined. And if they aren’t, you can tell them that scenes from The Dark Knight Rises were filmed here!
Mehrangarh Fort
3. Golconda, Hyderabad
Golconda Fort asks for a good deal of your time with a boundary wall about 10kms long. The region is famed for having produced some of the world’s most famous diamonds, including the Koh-I-Noor and the Hope diamond. The fort itself is an absolute marvel of architecture, with astounding acoustics. A clap at the entrance of the Fateh Darwaza can be clearly heard a kilometre away at the Bala Hisar pavilion. It’s a trick that never fails to awe children! It also happens to be one of the most beautiful forts of India, so you’ll have a good time exploring it as well.
Golconda Fort
4. Chittorgarh, Rajasthan
Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Chittorgarh is said to be the largest fort in India, spread over a mind-boggling 691 acres. Although it has a rather gruesome claim to fame – that of women committing mass immolation following the defeat of the fort’s rulers – there’s a lot more to Chittorgarh than just that. Palace complexes, temples, memorials and water bodies dot the vast expanse, and exploring them can be quite fruitful. Of particular note are the two intricately carved towers, the tower of victory (Vijaya Stambh) and the tower of fame (Kirti Stambh).
Imagine arriving at a fort astride an elephant. Well, that is exactly what you can do at the Amer Fort. That it is situated in Jaipur, which already boasts of marvels like the Hawa Mahal and the City Palace, takes nothing away from the grandeur of the Amer Fort (though admittedly, your kids might enjoy the elephant ride the most!). Of particular significance is the Sheesh Mahal, or Palace of Mirrors, which as the name suggests, has walls and ceilings adorned with countless pieces of silvered glass. With a number of other sights to see, including the Ganesh Pol, the Diwan-i-Aam, and the Sila Devi temple among others, the Amer Fort is also one of the most beautiful forts of India.
Amer Fort aka Amber Fort
6. Sindhudurg, Maharashtra
Now, most forts are built on land to guard against marauding armies. But Sindhudurg was built to protect the coastline from naval attacks. Constructed between 1664 and 1667, it is a testament to the foresight of Shivaji Maharaj, who commissioned its construction. A walk
along the ramparts is a delightful experience, with the expanse of the Arabian sea stretching before your eyes. This is also a nice scuba diving site, making a visit to Sindhudurg is one of the preferred family vacation ideas.
Sindhudurg Fort
Bonus:
With sparse historical records available, it is difficult to prove beyond doubt which the oldest fort in India is. Qila Mubarak in Punjab, said to date back to a period between 90 – 110 AD, and the Kangra Fort in Himachal Pradesh, even further back to 3,500 years ago. Either way, a visit to both would be well worth your time if you and your family love history!
Having trouble putting together a family vacation to India? We’re here to help! Get in touch with us and we’ll sort things out for you.
About 50 million years ago, India, an island that had separated from the Pangea supercontinent, collided into the Eurasian plate. But the subcontinent is still surrounded by water on three sides. Bound to the East by the Bay of Bengal, to the west by the Arabian Sea, and to the South by the Indian Ocean. India has a massive coastline extending almost 8,000 kms (5,000 miles). And this presents some wonderful opportunities for scuba diving tours in India.
Additionally, most of the best places to go scuba diving in India are relatively quite cheap. These are our top picks:
Dive into the ocean for an amazing experience (Photo Credit – Skeeze)
The Andaman Islands
When talking about scuba diving in India, Andaman is the first name that comes to mind. And quite rightly so. With visibility of up to 45 meters, turquoise blue waters, beautiful coral reefs, and, of course, stunning aquatic life makes the Andaman archipelago one of the best places to go scuba diving in India. There are different dive sites to choose from, like Havelock, Neil, and Cinque islands to name a few.
Life underwater is beyond our imagination (Photo Credit – Tatonomusic)
Lakshadweep
While Andaman is off the south-east coast of India, Lakshadweep is towards the south-west. And like the Andamans, it is one of the best spots for scuba diving in India. It being another archipelago, Lakshadweep has many similarities to the Andamans, with great underwater visibility being just one of them. Bangaram, Kadmat and Agatti Islands are the more popular dive sites here.
Although very popular with the tourists for a number of reasons, when talking about scuba diving in India, Goa often gets left out. Which is a shame, because there are some wonderful dive sites here. Just off the coast of Mormugoa, which is quite close to the Goa airport, and hence very accessible, is Grand Island.
Also referred to as Ilha Grande by locals, it has few of the best spots for scuba diving in India. Suzy’s Wreck and Davy Jones Locker, a couple of shipwrecks nearby, are ideal for slightly more experienced divers, while Uma Gumma reef is a great place for beginners.
Scuba Diving in Goa (Photo Credit – Frederick Noronha)
Netrani Island, Karnataka
Also known as Pigeon Island, this uninhabited island off the coast of Karnataka boasts of a beautiful coral reef with its attendant species of spectacular fish. The visibility here also rivals that at Andaman and Lakshadweep, making Netrani Island a guaranteed fixture for scuba diving tours in India.
Scuba Diving in Netrani Island, Karnataka (Photo Credit – Sebastian Pena Lombardi)
Pondicherry
This former French colony is another destination that is already popular with the tourists. And this is without adding scuba diving to its many attractions. Apart from the marine life, the range of diving options here firmly places it among the best places to go scuba diving in India.
Coral Shark Reef, for example, has a depth varying from 5 meters to 23 meters, which caters to divers of all expertise, while The Hole is 30 meters deep, making it perfect for advanced divers.
There are also plenty of other options here, including the Aravind Wall and 4 Corners. The diving school here has also constructed an artificial reef. This makes Pondicherry scuba diving India’s best upcoming destination.
If you need any assistance while planning your trip to India, please do get in touch with us, we would be happy to help you plan a memorable trip!
Scuba Diving in Pondicherry (Photo Credit – Tanguy Sauvin)
If you are thinking of visiting India with kids or planning a family vacation to India, read this article first. Planning a family holiday, especially if you’re travelling with younger children, can be very stressful. There are so many factors that you have to consider, like transit times, food preferences, activities and sightseeing options. It can seem pretty overwhelming, especially when planning a family getaway to India, which is such a large, diverse country. While our country is definitely wonderful to travel through, we’re the first to acknowledge that it can be intimidating and often difficult. In fact, the very things that make India such an intriguing option for some travellers – her vivaciousness, the surprises she throws – can make it seem like it’s not the best option to travel to India with kids.
But India actually has so much to offer to families! You can read more about some of our favourite family travel destinations in this article. And, to make the rest of it easier, we’ve put together this guide on some things to consider while planning a family vacation to India.
Travelling to India with kids is not as difficult as one might believe (Photo Credits – ybenyaacov)
Where should you stay on a family vacation to India?
Picking the right hotels can make or break a family vacation. In India, you’ll find that some destinations have more of a range to pick from than others, but most places that attract tourists will have stay options that work well for children. Depending on how old your kids are, homestays can be a great choice, especially if the host family also lives on site or close by.
If you’re travelling with really young kids, you might need access to a kitchen, for which homestays work well. On the other hand, if you have slightly older kids, homestays will give your young ones a chance to interact with local children and make new friends to play with. This can make the experience a whole lot more relaxing and enjoyable for all of you! Most hosts are very accommodating and will be happy to help you take care of the little ones’ needs! And, they’ll also be full of suggestions of what you can do with the kids to make sure that the holiday doesn’t get boring or full of adult experiences.
And, of course, you will find many family-friendly resorts and hotels in major cities and destinations likeRajasthan, Kerala and Goa. These hotels often have entertainment areas for children, and some even offer babysitting services if you need a bit of a break. A high-end hotel or a resort will often have a swimming pool as well, which is perfect if you have older children who want to burn off some energy. India is quite prepared to welcome families to her beauty, so read on.
Homestays can make travelling to India with kids a great, warm experience (Photo Credits – travelwayoflife)
Is Indian cuisine child friendly?
The cuisine is definitely a big point when it comes to a family trip in India or elsewhere. Children can be extremely fussy about food, and the new smells and flavours might make them reluctant to try anything. A good way to get around this is to try and introduce them to some Indian foods if you have access to any in your home country before you travel.
However, you will also find international staples in almost all cities and towns across India so you don’t have to panic. Additionally, because there’s such a large variety of flavours in Indian food, you’ll surely come across something that they’ll enjoy eating as well. Milder flavoured dishes like South Indian idlis and dosas are a great choice for those that aren’t familiar with too much spice. Additionally, these are dishes that are easily available in most parts of the country. And, of course, if you’re staying at a homestay, you could make special requests and they’d be happy to help out.
Another concern is also making sure that none of you fall sick from the new food that you’re going to be trying here. We’ve got a blog on avoiding Delhi Belly that you can check out for some tips and tricks. Some basic things to keep in mind include being careful of the water that you drink, and eating only hot food that’s prepared fresh, and avoiding street food that has been standing out for a long time. Having said that, it’s also important to remember to stay hydrated, as being out and about and sightseeing can drain you faster than you think, especially in a new environment!
Delicious idlis are a great food option when travelling to India with kids (Photo Credits – mcthrissu)
Getting around India with kids
This is one of the biggest things to consider while charting out your family trip to India. Distances in this country are large, and getting from one place to the other can be cumbersome, especially if you’ve got kids with you. And some regions, like Rajasthan, will often involve long road journeys between stops, and others, like the mountainous regions up North, will mean spending time on winding roads.
You can plan your route carefully to make sure that you aren’t going to be spending more time in transit than you and your children will be able to handle, as being on the road for extended periods can get boring. A good alternative is to mix in train journeys with the drives. There are many overnight train journeys you can opt for, to get a different experience. Plus, this is a fantastic way to meet other travelers, both Indian and international!
The famous tuk-tuks are an Indian mode of transport your kids are sure to enjoy!
How to plan your days
As tempting as it is to do as much as you can while you’re on holiday, packing too much into the schedule isn’t a great idea when you’re toting tots about. Try to keep things slower-paced, and include at least one thing a day that will be of interest to your children. And that doesn’t mean that you won’t be having fun, either. Forts can be exciting for kids to play explorers in, for example, and wildlife experiences are always a big hit. And, of course, you can spend some time on the beach as well – who doesn’t love the sea?
Our wonderful guest Shawna Brashears & her family had a great time on the Kerala houseboats
No matter which part of India you visit, you will always find an ideal destination for a family trip. There are many things to do for families in India – trying out adventure activities in the mountains, visiting the Taj Mahal in the North, spotting tigers in the national parks in Central India, trekking in the Himalayas and the Western Ghats, or enjoying the pleasant weather of the hill stations in South India.
The Mountains
The mighty Himalayan foothills are home to many beautiful regions perfect for a family vacation. Explore the beautiful states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand – you will find many family-friendly treks and trails here, with views of the gorgeous snow-capped peaks in the distance. You can also have a glamping experience in the forests of this region.
If you visit during the winter months from December to March, you could try adventure activities like skiing, snowboarding, and paragliding. In the spiritual city of Rishikesh in Uttarakhand, you could try river rafting!
Ladakh is a beautiful family destination in the northernmost part of India. While most of India witnesses the monsoon season from June to September, Ladakh actually opens up for tourism in June.
If you are a wildlife enthusiast, you can visit the renowned Jim Corbett National Park, where you can spot a variety of flora and fauna in an exciting jeep safari!
The Himalayas
The Golden Triangle
The Golden Triangle (Delhi – Agra – Jaipur) is one of the most popular routes in India, and ideal for a family vacation. This route covers the popular destinations in North India while providing varied cultural experiences.
Begin your journey by landing in New Delhi. Visit the India Gate, the Red Fort, and the Lotus Temple. If you love shopping, you have to visit Sarojini Market, where you can get great deals on clothing and accessories. Stroll through the lanes and markets of Old Delhi to get a completely different vibe.
Then make your way to Agra to see the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. This majestic monument was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The white marble had an inlay work of precious and semi precious stones, and is considered a symbol of love.
The last stop of the Golden Triangle route is Jaipur, the Pink City. Visit the Hawa Mahal and the City Palace in this beautiful city. If you have more time, you can also extend the Golden Triangle route to Rajasthan or Varanasi, both family-friendly destinations.
Taj Mahal, Agra
North India
If you want to visit some more offbeat places in North India than the Golden Triangle has to offer, there are many other places in North India. For a spiritual experience, visit the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The temple has the largest free kitchen (langar) in the world and serves food to up to 3,00,000 people every day! Do not miss a meal here, and if you wish to, you can also volunteer to serve meals at the temple. You could also visit Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh in the North.
Golden Temple, Amritsar
Rajasthan
Rajasthan is one of the most beautiful family destinations in India, and is steeped in culture and tradition. Mighty forts and majestic palaces adorn this historic city, making it a perfect place for a grand family vacation. Visit the Amber Fort in Jaipur, the Pink City. Visit the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, the Blue City, or relax at Udaipur, the City of Lakes, with many grand palaces and lakes surrounding you. You can even take a serene boat ride in the lake in Udaipur. If you want a luxury family vacation, you can even stay in one of the many royal palaces that have been converted into hotels and resorts. The Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur is a luxury hotel, a part of which is still home to the royal family of Jodhpur! Take a camel safari in the Thar desert and sleep under the stars while camping in the desert!
If you are interested in national parks or are a wildlife lover, you must plan a wildlife safari in Ranthambore National Park, one of the largest habitats of the Royal Bengal Tiger in the world.
Udaipur, Rajasthan
Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh is India’s oldest city to be continually inhabited, and a religious site. The holy River Ganges flows through this city. Walk through the bylanes of Varanasi, with temples on every street, and participate in the aarti (chants) at the Ganga ghats in the morning and evening – it will be a surreal experience unlike anything you have experienced.
The river Chambal flows through the tripoint of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. The National Chambal Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh is home to the endangered gharial (small crocodile), red-crowned roof turtle, and the Ganges river dolphin.
Ganga Aarti, Varanasi
North east India
The North east part of India is a lesser-frequented tourist destination, with untouched landscapes and magical forests. Visit the live root bridges and the cleanest village in Meghalaya, encounter rhinos in Kaziranga National Park in Assam, and explore tea gardens in the beautiful hill station of Darjeeling.
Living root bridges, Meghalaya
Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh is a haven for nature and wildlife lovers, with many national parks like Panna Tiger Reserve, Kanha National Park, and Pench National Park. You can take wildlife safaris here and you will have a great chance of spotting Bengal tigers and other wildlife in these sanctuaries. You can also visit the ancient temples of Khajuraho, dating back to the 10th century.
Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
Western India
Visit Mumbai, the city that never sleeps, in Maharashtra in Western India. This financial capital of Mumbai is famous for its stunning architecture of the British era, Marine Drive, and Bollywood, one of the major film industries in India. You can go to art galleries, museums, and beautiful cafes here – there is always something happening in this vibrant city.
The Western Ghats have many easy to moderate treks perfect for families interested in trekking.
Goa may be renowned as a party destination, but it has many family friendly places you can visit. The clean beaches of Goa are amazing for beach activities, such as swimming, building sandcastles, parasailing, and indulging in other water sports. Old Goa has many historic sites such as churches, temples, and forts that you can visit.
Western Ghats
South India
South India has some stunning destinations you can visit with your family. Visit the ancient temples and ruins of Hampi, a kingdom dating back to the 14th century, in Karnataka, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you love animals, you can also visit the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary in this state.
If you want to witness the traditions of South India, Tamil Nadu is full of ancient temples, museums, and historical monuments, perfect for families. Visit Marina Beach, the longest in India and the second-longest in the world!
Kerala, God’s Own Country, is the perfect tranquil escape from the chaos of the cities. The natural beauty, lush greenery, cultural experiences, and the Backwaters of Kerala make this state a must visit in India. Kerala is also home to national parks like Periyar National Park, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve. Visit the tea estates of Munnar, relax at Marari Beach, or stay on a houseboat in the backwaters in Alleppey.
The hill stations in South India have their own charm – visit the tea estates of Munnar in Kerala, the coffee plantations of Coorg in Karnataka, and the lush landscapes of Ooty and Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu.
Kerala Backwaters
Islands of India
India has some beautiful islands that are a perfect destination for families. The Lakshadweep Islands in the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Arabian Sea offer a relaxing vacation with beautiful beaches, historic sites, and many water sports and outdoor activities. Swim with elephants, try snorkeling, and see the coral reefs from glass-bottomed boats! Learn about India’s freedom struggle in Port Blair.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Things to Remember while traveling to India with kids
India is a very chaotic country, and you will find it crowded with citizens and tourists alike, especially if you are visiting during peak season. So make sure to stay safe and cautious during a trip to the country. That being said, India is a treasure trove of different cultures, traditions, local life, and cuisines. If you have never visited an Asian country before, you may get a culture shock, but try to go with the flow and enjoy every moment.
While authentic Indian cuisine is something you should not miss, keep in mind that India is not the most hygienic country. India is home to some of the best street food in the world, but only consume food that is prepared fresh and hot in front of you. Similarly, tap water in India is not potable. Only drink packaged, bottled water, or purified water. If at all you do not have access to bottled water, try boiling water before drinking it.
In India, you will often find multigenerational families all under one roof – joint families are quite common in India. If you do get a chance to interact with such families, don’t miss it. You will learn a lot about vastly different customs and traditional practices.
The Indian rupee cannot be taken out of India, so make sure you spend all your currency before leaving.
So, parents, if you find this article helpful, it is time to start planning your family trip to India! Although putting together a family vacation in India can seem daunting, our team of travel specialists is here to help, and we’ve got plenty of ideas for great family getaways.Get in touch and we’ll help you plan the perfect vacation in India for you and your family!
Incredible history and culture? Check. Amazing wildlife experiences? Check. Diverse natural beauty? Check. Mouth-watering food? That one’s most definitely got a big check! Just thinking about all the reasons why holidays in India are a great idea that makes us want to hit the road again.
We understand that coming to India can be a bit daunting (and that’s why we’re here!) – it is a vast country that you could spend a lifetime travelling across. But the fact is, no matter what sort of holiday you’re looking for, you’ll certainly find it here.
A vacation in India can be rewarding in unimaginable ways – it’s a place that invites you to reconnect with nature, and to reconnect with yourself. Each part of the country is unique and special in its own way.
Here’s why we think India should feature on your must-visit list
Indian women in fields (Photo Credit – Free Photos)
We do colour (and chaos!) like no one else!
Whenever we think – ‘why India?’ this is the first thing that comes to mind. It’s overflowing with cultural experiences, and in every direction you look, there’s bursts of colour and vibrance!
There’s always a festival to witness, and even everyday life offers plenty of stimulation to your senses. This can get overwhelming at times, so it’s a good thing, then, that.
Festival of colours – Holi! (Photo Credit – Shekharchopra85)
There’s peace to be found
Coming to India is what people do when they’re looking to find themselves, and we can see why! From some absolutely tranquil places, like the mountainscapes of Ladakh and the verdant green hills of Munnar, to the thread of spirituality that runs through life in India, peace and calm is up for the taking here.
You can retreat from the world to a secluded getaway when you’ve had enough of the clamour and chaos of the cities. You can sign up for yoga classes and centre yourself. Cleanse your body and soul with an Ayurveda program. The options are endless!
Check out our articles on Spirituality in India for more.
Stunning views of the snow-capped mountains
It’s like visiting a new country every day
Crossing state lines in India invariably means discovering a whole new culture – everything is different! Clothes, food, architectural styles, even languages vary in different regions of the country, and it’s an amazing thing to experience.
As you journey from place to place, you get glimpses into a variety of new worlds, all interlinked, but yet unique in their own ways.
Pushkar Camel Fair, popular opportunity to witness an old traditional style Indian festival (Photo Credit – Ashish Sangai)
The food is incredible and diverse!
Another reason why India should be on the top your list is the food! Indian food might be limited to curries and kebabs when you’re outside the country, but the food that you get once you’re here is a whole other story. Like we said before, each region has its distinct culture, and the foods display that oh-so-well!
Each part of the country embraces ingredients that are local to that area and suited to the climate as well. Acordingly, you’ll get light, fresh, coconutty meals towards the South, and richer, denser flavours as you travel Northwards.
In fact, we think that exploring the country through its diverse food offerings is one of the best ways to understand it. A lot of traditional Indian foods are very seasonal. The recipes have been crafted keeping in mind what’s best for the body at different times of the year, along with what’s locally available.
Yes, we’ve been doing that for centuries now! And, we know how to cook vegetables like no one else, if we may say so ourselves.
Swathes of India are covered in forests, and they’re rich in a wide variety of wildlife. India has so much to offer apart from the majestic tiger, which is what most visitors want to see. There are rhinos, bears, elephants of course, and plenty of other creatures big and small. It’s also a great destination for bird-watching. With a huge range of avifauna, both resident and migratory, that can be seen.
The jungles in the middle of the country are tiger land, the Northeast is home to the rhinos, the South to leopards and elephants, and the Himalayas are home to the majestic snow leopard, red panda, and much more. There’s even the Western Ghats, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is classified as a hot-spot of biological diversity. No matter which part of the country you visit, there’s something wild to be seen!
Most beautiful white Bengal Tiger (Photo Credit – Juda M)
Best Time to Visit India
The sheer size of the country means that you’re bound to have a good time in some part of the country. This is irrespective of when in the year you visit. But, the general consensus is that the best time to visit India is in its winter months, from November to March.
It’s when the weather is at its most pleasant (though the more mountainous parts get snowbound). Also, there are plenty of festivals at this time of year, too. However, as this is peak tourist season, be prepared for higher prices and more crowds.
With the advent of the internet, you now have the ability to book hotels and flights at the snap of a finger. But with such technology comes a problem that we are sure everyone faces, the problem of too much information. 100 review websites, each one with a different opinion. Which can make travelling these days rather stressful. There are just so many options out there, that you don’t know where to look! Is this the best way to get around, am I missing out on some great flight deal? How will I know if I’ve done everything I should? Trip planning, especially for a country as vast and varied as India is, can be, quite frankly, intimidating. So here is a quick explanation of why a personalized trip to India is easy with a little help from us.
So, when you plan a holiday to India, you might wonder whether you should sign up for a group trip or a personalized one. The case with group travel is that it seems easy, there’s definitely comfort in numbers and everything’s already charted for you.
However, here’s why we think a customized trip to India is the way to go:
Indian Women in the fields (Photo Credit – Free Photos)
You’re in control
The biggest plus of a personalized itinerary (and it’s a really big one!) is that you’re the boss. You get to decide when you will go, how long you spend in each place, and what you see and do once you’re there. You’re not tied down by what the group’s departure date is, or what the planned schedule looks like – it’ll only have what you want on it, after all! Which leads us to our next point…
Take the opportunity to experience local things while you are in India
It isn’t as expensive as you think
It’s widely believed that customizing your vacation requires deeper pockets than a group trip, but that’s not necessarily the case! We not only help you plan your holiday to India, but we’ll also make it work within the budget you have. That’s the beauty of personalized travel, after all – you get the benefits of both, a group package and travelling independently. That’s why we say…
Local Indian vegetable market (Photo Credit – Pau Casals)
It’s not difficult!
All you need to do is tell us what you want to do, and what sort of holiday you’re looking for. We’ll figure out all the details for you, and our travel planners will make sure that they give you all the information you might need for your trip. We’ve got plenty of reading material right here, as well. And, we’re also always a quick email or a call away if there’s something we’ve not covered – before you leave, and while you’re on the road. So clearly…
Evening boat ride Varanasi (Photo Credit – Ton W)
You don’t need large groups to stay safe
While planning a trip to India, you might come across articles discussing safety for the traveller. And yes, of course, anyone travelling to a new destination must always be aware of the social norms and cultural cues of the country they’re going to see. Having said that, you won’t ever be completely alone! Like we said earlier, we can be easily reached if you need us, but we’ll also give you the freedom to explore and experience our beautiful country just the way you want to.
View of Mehrangarh Fort from our favourite homestay in Jodhpur
So to conclude if you would like a customized trip to India, we at India Someday would be happy to help plan your trip to India. Just get in touch and we will get back to you with some thoughts and questions.
India is a vast country teeming with stories, and has long been the subject and setting for them. They give you a glimpse of life in the country through the eyes of the characters and the pages of books. How could you possibly hear them all? Remember that what you see in certain Oscar winning movies and music videos is not the real deal. To get a deeper hold on the slippery psyche of our country, here’s a list of books to read before travelling to India! Be warned though, nearly all of them are the size of a well -fed child, sometimes two. We’ll list them in order of page count so you can choose wisely.
Travelling to India to visit God’s own country? Slip through the pepper-cloaked coconut trees of Kerala, dip into it’s rushing streams, feel the spice dust tickle its way up your nostrils through the evocative descriptions of Roy’s only novel. This book will make you sob in pain and giggle at the antics of the twins joint at the hip as their idyllic world is torn apart by a sudden death. A must-read before visiting Kerala, it brings the mannerisms and predicament of its people to life.
356 pages
A must-read when visiting Kerala, this one makes it to our list of books to read before travelling to India- Credit: Gaurav Dhwaj Khadka
City of Djinns by William Dalrymple
Planning on dropping by our capital city? Then this one goes on your list of books to read before travelling to India. Indraprastha, Lal Kot, Tughlakabad, Red Fort, East India Company’s Delhi and Lutyens’ Delhi. They all stood where the Indian capital now stands, living on in pigeon holes and strains of sufiana drifting across the terraces in the evening. Watch as the gifted Dalrymple unravels the city, sifting through its architecture, its people and its lore asking if we can ever truly put the past behind us. An added bonus is a thorough breakdown of Delhi’s treacherous weather that’ll give you some great packing tips.Â
360 pages
City of Djinns will give you some great tips before visiting Delhi – Credit: Mayank Austen Soofi
Great Indian Novel by Shashi Tharoor
A plotline lifted straight from the Indian epic ‘Mahabharatha’ and recast with the most prominent political figures from the country’s Independence struggle. Knock off mythology and history in one fell swoop carried on the wings of Tharoor’s singing prose. The MP returned to Indian politics after nearly three decades in the UN and is no stranger to open criticism of the status quo. You’ll find beneath the puns and poetry startling opinions and thought-provoking questions, both of which you will also come across when travelling to India. These expose the layers of the Great Indian Denial that is our political situation.
423 pages
A great novel for those interested in Indian history and politics-Photo Credit Steffi Pereira
The City of Joy by Dominique Lapierre
A foray into the gritty underbelly of Kolkata and the saints that call its run-down hospitals home. It has been rumoured to be the source of the city’s now popular nickname. This makes for a great factoid to know when travelling to India! The book puts joyous leper weddings, kite flying marathons and unadulterated goodness in the spotlight, without hesitating to discuss the dilapidated surroundings in which these joys are borne.
544 pages
A novel based on the grittiness and joy of living in Kolkata- Photo Credit Prasanna Kumar
Maximum City by Suketu Mehta
Mumbai the city of dreams delivers it’s harsh reality in Maximum City. Almost overpowering in the intensity of each story, it transcribes one man’s struggle to reconcile with the city he once called his own. It delves into its darkest drug dens and deepest political infestations to make sense of a city of wanton chaos. Power hungry fundamentalist rub shoulders with glamour-struck film stars in a city famously said to be built on dichotomies.
600 pages
Read about the city of dreams and it’s harsh realities- Photo Credit Elaine Howlin
Midnight’s Children by Salman Rushdie
Voted the best among 25 years worth of Booker Prize winners, this is a bitingly humorous epic tracing the lives of those bone on and around the fortuitous stroke of midnight on the 14th August 1947. Each has been gifted with shades of magic that carry them through the treacherous shifting ground of a massive nation in unrest. Read it for the beauty of the words, and the magic of the characters. Sink into the history of a country too large to hold laced with a sugary sprinkle of absurdism.
672 pages
A humourous epic tale- Credit: Jabiz Raisdana
A Suitable Boy by Vikram Seth
A volume of this size can only be for the serious readers out there. But, the delicacy of Seth’s words is for everyone. Simple, straightforward and gut-wrenchingly lyrical, he moves at the same placid pace as the small town of his creation. Gently, he ekes out star crossed lovers, religious tensions, filial frustration and the shifting paradigms of a country newly reborn, drawing you deeper and deeper into his characters minds and hearts. This book is immersive and comprehensive. It would probably be our first recommendation for anyone who really wants to understand the continuously contradicting loyalties that fuel each new generation of Indians.
1,552 pages
If you’re still pondering if India is meant for you, we guarantee it is meant for every type of traveller out there. As varied as our list of books to read before travelling to India, it is mesmerising and exciting, all in one. We can help you plan a trip to India that feels just like you’re a part of your own Great Indian Adventure! For more information or assistance in planning the perfect trip, get in touch with us !
Travelling solo is a thrill like no other, particularly if you choose to solo travel in India. Move at your own pace, tailor-make your itinerary, and maybe you’ll discover more along your journey than you set out to. Travelling can be a monumental decision, both mentally and financially, and it’s pretty hard to get even your closest friends to go along with you. Arguments break out over where, when and how, until it is time to break free and decide to do your own thing. Relatives and close friends will scorn and fret, ‘it’s not safe’, they’ll say, ‘you’ll get bored alone’. And if you tell them it’s India you’re heading to, you might as well just save them the time and check yourself into the mental asylum.
So why would you travel to India alone? It’s a crazy, chaotic country exploding with myriad experiences, from lazy Goan afternoons to deafening Mumbai markets. Each day will throw a million different options at you that makes you want to either linger or run away, and it’s hard to do that when you have to take a dozen other people’s interests to take into account. With so many things to do and see in so very little time, it’s nice to have full control over your choices and the freedom to chase your own experiences. It is good to worry about your safety, especially for women, because it helps you prepare better and be alert.
At India Someday we take a personal interest in our client’s welfare so you will never truly be alone in this great big country. That relationship starts here, with these tips for all those who want to drop the baggage and fly solo.
Travel solo around India with these top ten tips!(Credit_neverbutterfly)
1. Travel light
You only have one back to carry those bags on, and you don’t want to be seen struggling and vulnerable. Take only what you absolutely need, and you can pick up the rest along the way. That said, there’s a couple of essentials you’ll need to fall back on—a portable charger with a full battery, a legal safety mechanism like pepper spray or a whistle, hard copies of your information and itinerary with contact details of all the places you’ll be staying at, and of course, cash.
Pack lightly with usable things (Credit_Stefan Coders)
2. Prepare, prepare, prepare
There are a few tricks to remember when you’re at the booking stage. Try to arrive in each new city during the day so you have some time to get the lay of the land. If you must arrive late, arrange for private transport to take you directly from the station, airport to your hotel, and make sure the hotel knows exactly when you’re arriving. Ask for a contact number at the hotel and call them when you get into your taxi, give the license plate number and ETA.
When booking sleeper trains you can ask for an A/C section for more privacy, or stick to the general sleeper for safety in numbers and a chance to meet some great people. Always request an upper berth, it provides a safe place to stow away your bags during the day and keeps you out of the reach of mischievous hands by night.
3. Take a course
If you have to opt for hotels over hostels for most of your stay, you might find yourself craving human contact. But solo travel in India does not mean that you have to feel alone. Classes can help with that. Learn cooking, pottery, yoga, kite-making, tribal art; go camping, dancing or cycling and you will find there is a lot of socialising so you don’t feel like you’re alone the whole time. It will help you to make a couple of friends in the city too. You can even opt for a couple of group tours for the first day until you get used to the place.
You can make pottery (Tom Maloney)
4. Have a backup
Put your documents on a dropbox or google drive so you can access them from anywhere. Consider a money belt for your passport and credit cards, although if your hotel has a locker you should consider leaving them there. If you have access to a safe then lock important possessions in there for when you leave your hotel room. Carry photocopies on your person of your passport and visa. Always have more than one copy in case you lose something.
Always carry photocopies of your visa and passport (Credit_Antigone_gone)
5. Keep in touch
Once you have your plans and tickets in place, give your schedule to a loved one. Make sure to provide the contact numbers and addresses of your hotels as a just in case. Set up a time to check-in each day, regardless of where you are. Invest in an international SIM card with internet services, it’ll serve you well. This is not very expensive. For three months, it will cost you around INR 600 and enables you to around 2 GB of internet with unlimited domestic calls. It is helpful when you need to search the internet but you don’t have wifi.
Local SIM cards are easy to obtain and make your life easier in a foreign country
6. Listen to experience
The internet gives you the choice of crowdsourcing your research so take advantage of it. Read reviews, access forums like Wegosolo for more tips and personal experiences. This site has great tips on solo travel in India, particularly for women. Also read articles and books on where you are going. We offer a great list of books to read that can enhance your knowledge of India before arriving, but also research on your own accord as you may find some gems that are specific to your trip.
Research into the areas you are visiting (Image by StockSnap from Pixabay)
7. Lie a little
Solo travel in India is all about exuding confidence. Don’t hesitate to make a fake call to establish that you’re not alone in the city, or make up a spouse or friend waiting for you back in the hotel. India has a lax attitude towards a women stating her independence and you may have to make up a boyfriend or husband to ward off unwanted attention. You may feel a little guilty about having to misrepresent yourself, but seriously guys, prioritize.
solo female traveller by exuding confidence (Credit_Tom Maisey)
8. Spread out your cash
Put a little in your bag, a little in your belt, a little in your shoe etc. Slash proof bags are also a great new option in the market to stay one step ahead of the pickpockets. The bonus is finding money you forgot about and feeling a sudden wave of richness. Take more than one debit or credit card so that you always have a back-up. Use different pouches in your bag for certain amounts of cash so that if you are unfortunately pickpocketed then they will only take one section of your cash rather than all of it.
India has a closed currency, meaning that you cannot get rupees from home, so you will have to get money once you arrive. This will not be a problem as there are many ATMs dotted around the cities. If you are going to a more solitary area then you can exchange money at the airport once you arrive.
Carry cash as well as card as some places may not have card machines at hand
9. Be alert
The most important thing if you choose to solo travel in India is to always be alert! Make sure that you are paying attention to what is going on around you so that you are alert of any danger. Wear only one earphone when you’re listening to music. Take your bags with you go to the toilet, or at least your important documents and cash. Stay awake in public places, no matter how tired you are, until you’ve secured your baggage.
When taking any cabs or auto rickshaws, follow the route on Google maps so that you are aware of any divergence. Frequently opt for pre-paid transport like Uber or Ola Cabs that come with GPS in the car. You can also share your location on Whatsapp for a certain period of time so that other people can see that you have arrived safely to your destination.
Always check navigation (Image by Dariusz Sankowski from Pixabay)
10. Tech it up a notch
We live in a great age of high-speed internet and segways, it’s time to put it to use. There’s a host of apps aimed specifically at solo travellers like Outbound and Wandermates that connect travelers. Google Translate will help you communicate and offers a good local offline map. And obviously, keep us on speed dial.
Map out your journey to India
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