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Introducing India

From the food to the rhythms of life in India, travelers who seek the renowned cultural experience of visiting this country rich in history and culture find an unpredictable yet unparalleled experience.

When is the best time to visit?
India is an enormous country with diverse weather patterns, but usually the best time to travel to India is from October to March. Learn more
 
Where to go in India?
If strapped for time or visiting India for the first time, travelers usually opt to explore the Golden Triangle, the cultural hubs of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Visitors who want a less traditional vacation should consider the temples of North and Central India, the Goan beaches of the south, and the mountains and outdoor paradise near the Kullu Valley or Rishikesh. Balance the hustle and bustle of the big cities with time spent in the countryside away from the crowds. Learn more

How many days do I need?
2 weeks is the bare minimum to spend in India, but if possible, travelers should budget about a month to see the country, perhaps broken up into several visits. Learn more

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

India Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Ranganathaswamy Temple
Map of Tamil Nadu Temple Tour - 10 Days
Tamil Nadu Temple Tour - 10 Days

Hit the temple trail to visit some of the stars of South India on this 10-day itinerary. You'll experience the modern culture of the state of Tamil Nadu alongside ancient Indian history and mythology, touring some of the world's most impressive and intricately carved temples and taking in the natural views along the Bay of Bengal.

Discover Rajasthan
Map of Best of Rajasthan Tour - 10 Days
Best of Rajasthan Tour - 10 Days

With its colorful culture and rich history, Rajasthan is a splendid display of a unique Indian heritage. This trip focuses on spectacular sights of India’s largest state, including the palaces and temples of Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur. This itinerary not only showcases the traditional architecture characteristic of the region, but also allows you to understand the depth of India’s past, making for an unforgettable experience.

Ladakh lake
Highlights of Ladakh: Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso - 7 Days

With a week to visit Ladakh, you'll have the chance to see all of the region's highlights, from ancient Hemis Gompa to the blue-green waters of Pangong Tso and the beautiful Nubra Valley, whose Tibetan name means "valley of flowers." You'll see Leh's colorful markets and stunning mountain landscapes, and learn about the area's unique Himalayan culture over the course of your seven-day vacation.

Stay a night on a houseboat for the ultimate Kerala experience
Map of Highlights of Kerala - 10 Days
Highlights of Kerala - 10 Days

This exciting 10-day itinerary introduces travelers to South India's serene state of Kerala. Kicking off in the historic city of Cochin, located on the Arabian Sea, you'll set off for lush plantations, protected parks, and hill towns in the Western Ghats. Next, cruise your way through the area's glittering backwater canals before finishing the adventure with some relaxed beach time, fresh seafood, and a taste of Ayurveda. 

Jama Masjid Mosque, Old Delhi
Map of Golden Triangle Tour - 6 Days
Golden Triangle Tour - 6 Days

Perhaps the most popular route in India, you'll visit the three famous sites of India's northwest—Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur—known as the Golden Triangle. You'll travel by road or train over the course of six days, exploring each city's cultural and historical heritage. This is a great tour for people's first visit to India if you're looking to see the main highlights.

This area of South India is known for its palm-lined network of canals
Map of Discover Kerala Tour - 6 Days
Discover Kerala Tour - 6 Days

This exotic itinerary is the ultimate introduction to South India's state of Kerala—an up-and-coming destination for savvy travelers. Kick off with an Arabian Sea sunset in Cochin before a private guide drives you through lush, hilly interiors peppered with tea and spice plantations. Continue the journey with an overnight cruise through infamous waterways, followed by a tour of Fort Kochi (by tuk-tuk) to finish the adventure.

Make the Most of Your Time in India

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Humayun's tomb in Delhi
How Many Days to Spend in India

In India, there are itineraries to suit every traveler, from short sightseeing sprees to months-long backpacking trips. Whether you're on a quick, history-packed jaunt to tick...

Row of ocean fishing boats in the canals of the Kerala backwaters
1 Week in India - 5 Regional Itinerary Ideas

With only a week to visit India, maximize your time by sticking to a single region. Opt for a tour of the popular Golden Triangle—New Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur—or take in the...

The high-altitude town of Manali in northern India
10 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Ten days in India is enough to go beyond the highlights of one region, enjoying off-the-beaten-path sites or remote locales that wouldn't be possible with a shorter trip. Pair a...

Elephant showering himself in Periyar National Park
Map of 2 Weeks in India - 2 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in India - 2 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in India, travelers will have enough time to get intimately acquainted with a handful of key cities and sites. To get the most from your stay, you'll want to...

India Travel Essentials

All you need to know to get started planning the perfect trip
When to Visit India: Travel Tips for Every Season
Best Time of Year to Visit India

With pounding monsoons, piping hot summers, and (in certain places) snowy winters, India is a country of extremes. Spring and fall tend to be the mildest and most temperate, but...

Camels in the desert at sunset
Top 10 Things to Do in India

From tasting Mumbai's rich culinary creations to being doused in brightly hued powder during the country's colorful Holi festival, a visit to this ancient land is a feast for...

India Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
Colorfully dressed dancers performing at a street fair in Kolkata
24 Hours in Kolkata

Kolkata offers a rich mix of Hindu, British, and Bengali culture that you won't find anywhere else in India. Once the capital of the British Raj, it has enough to keep you busy...

Neela Gumbad structure, near Humayun's Tomb
24 Hours in Delhi

One day just isn't enough to cover everything in sprawling Delhi—but you’ll find that 24 hours is plenty of time to fall in love with this beautiful and surprising city. ...

The Taj Mahal bathed in pink light
Planning Your Honeymoon in India

From the famously erotic temple carvings at Khajuraho to star-crossed lovers in today’s Bollywood films, India is in love with romance—and it has the honeymoon spots to show for...

Hawah Mahal
Family Travel in India

With delicious food, rich cultures, and stunning scenery, India has plenty of opportunities for unforgettable family adventures. You can meet rescued elephants in an animal...

Our Latest India Content

Experience the otherworldly salt marshes of Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
Map of 9 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
9 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With nine days in India, you can visit four or five destinations if you move at a reasonably fast pace. First-timers and families can combine the Golden Triangle with tiger safaris in Ranthambore or a deeper dive into Rajasthan. Foodies can taste their way around the north and even take a cooking lesson in a palace. Couples will enjoy romantic activities on the "Heritage & Cuisine of Rajasthan" itinerary, while those looking to get off the beaten path can explore the dunes of Thar or join wildlife lovers on safari in Gujarat.

At the edge of Kerala's Athirapally Waterfall in Cochin
Map of 6 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
6 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In six days, you can cover a few of India's cities to experience a brief introduction to the diverse country. Those looking to take in its most iconic sights can explore the highlights of the famed Golden Triangle of Delhi-Agra-Jaipur. Nature lovers wanting to take a deep dive into India's flora and fauna will enjoy the tours to the southern states of Kerala and Goa. Finally, those looking for insights into spirituality can explore the Hindu temples of Varanasi and the Buddhist center of Sarnath on a spiritual tour.

A group of camels crossing the Thar desert
Map of 13 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
13 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In 13 days, you can cover major highlights in a few states, like on a classic tour of Rajasthan and the Golden Circle, or go off-the-beaten-track to Shimla and Leh mountain towns on the Himalaya border. Alternatively, seek out Bengal tigers and other wildlife in four of northern India's national parks or visit tribal villages, Hindu and Buddhist temples, and national parks in central India. See the epic Taj Mahal, ride a camel in the Thar desert, and explore hill forts, lakeside palaces, tribal villages, and Buddhist monasteries.

India Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
India map: 2 Weeks in India - 2 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in India - 2 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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India map: 12 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
12 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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India map: 8 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
8 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for India
Travel specialist Priya Dikshit

Priya Dikshit

Traveling is about making memories. Though traveling around and exploring new places is one of the best things you can do for yourself, it is always important to explore places and meet people who...

read more...
Travel specialist Ravi Tickoo
active 15 hours ago

Ravi Tickoo

World traveller, professional mountaineer and passionate adventure entrepreneur, Ravi has over 25 years of experience conducting adventure, experiential and culture tours across the length and...

read more...
Travel specialist Jay Kajaria
active 15 hours ago

Jay Kajaria

I am an avid traveler, wildlife enthusiast, excellent photographer and have been to more than 30 national parks, 20 nature hotsposts and numerous heritage destinations in India and sub-continent. I...

read more...
Travel specialist Mandeep Gill

Mandeep Gill

I have a passion for exploring new regions of my country, embracing different cultures and enjoying local food and drinks! The diversity of India intrigues me, which drives me to learn more and...

read more...

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Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan

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Local support during your trip

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A portion of every kimkim trip goes toward the removal of carbon from the atmosphere. Learn more
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Kimkim is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.

Seller of Travel Registration number: CST #2136279-40.
Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.

Trip Reviews for India

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

AMAZING Golden Triangle, Ranthambore and Varanasi Trip
India | Dec 16 - Dec 30, 2022

M
Maya K.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Jan 08, 2023

Overall FANTASTIC trip!

Jay and the Bespoke Team exceeded our expectations from the moment we landed in India. Simply magical from start to finish and one of the best/if not the best trip we have ever been on!
I am of Indian origin and have traveled several times to Southern India. This was our first trip to the North and my husband/daughter's first trip to India. Jay helped us plan a trip to the Golden Triangle (New Delhi, Agra, Jaipur) + Varanasi and Ranthambore. He was very easy to... read more

Overall FANTASTIC trip!

Jay and the Bespoke Team exceeded our expectations from the moment we landed in India. Simply magical from start to finish and one of the best/if not the best trip we have ever been on!
I am of Indian origin and have traveled several times to Southern India. This was our first trip to the North and my husband/daughter's first trip to India. Jay helped us plan a trip to the Golden Triangle (New Delhi, Agra, Jaipur) + Varanasi and Ranthambore. He was very easy to work with and considered all our requests and concerns. We were met at every location by the company representative who helped us check in, reviewed the itinerary plan and start time. Guides were always early and greeted us each morning.

Driver---BEST DRIVER EVER!! Mr. Balbir Singh Rana was an absolute dream of a driver and we could not thank him enough for making this trip perfect. He was always smiling, so peaceful, pleasant and calm while navigating the insanity of Indian driving/traffic/animals and all forms of transportation found on the roads. He kept the car clean and guided up to wonderful rest stops while en route to all the sights. 

New Delhi--saw the Red Fort, Raj Ghat (Gandhi cremation site), Jama Masjid, Chandi Chowk, Humayun's Tomb and Qutub Minar. Our favorite was the rickshaw cycle ride through the streets of Chandi Chowk. Lunch was excellent at Kwality restaurant.

Varanasi--excellent guide Mr. Singh who took us for a boat ride to see the Ganga Aarti and funeral ghat to experience the cremations. Saw the Aarti from rooftop seating which gave us a great vantage point thanks to Mr. Singh. Really enjoyed the morning boat ride to see life on the Ganges, Lord Shiva temple and walk thru the old streets of Varanasi, Bharat Mata temple, Durga temple, Tulsi Manas temple and especially Sarnath temple/museum and the gorgeous Lion Capital of Ashoka located. 

Agra--excellent guide Mr. Briijesh Joshi. Great trip to the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, "Baby Taj" and fantastic Mughal Heritage Kachhpura Village walk. Lunch was in a beautiful garden with great food per suggestion of Mr. Joshi. Village walk and view of the Taj from a roof top across the river was a highlight!

Ranthambore--beautiful Sawaii Villas was a stunning hotel we loved staying at. Did 2 safari's (am and evening) and saw the male tiger "Rocky" on our evening safari in zone 4. Hotel gave blankets for the morning safari which was so important as it was freezing. Being in the wild and seeing a bengal tiger was a once in a lifetime experience!

Jaipur--fantastic guide Mr. Ajit Singh! BIG thanks to Ajit for taking us to the Hawa Mahal in the morning with less crowds and the sun shining onto the building facade--got great pics! Saw Amer Fort, Panna Meena ka Kund (stepwell), Jaigarh Fort, Jantar Mantar, City Palace and Nahargarh Fort. Highlight was Dera Amer -- spending time with rescued elephants and lovely organic home cooked dinner. 

Hotel Reviews
Taj Palace Delhi
New Delhi

Fantastic stay at the Taj Palace, New Delhi! Service was great from check-in! Room was clean, spacious, with a great bathroom making it easy to bath kids. Food for breakfast was perfect, so many choices and friendly servers. Best breakfast we had on our 2 wks in India. Will stay again when back in Delhi

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Radisson Varanasi
Varanasi

VERY POOR experience--NOT A 5-STAR HOTEL Stayed for 2 nights in December 2022 for a family trip to India, specifically here to see Varanasi. Hotel check in was challenging, you have limited internet access for devices, and street is not easy to walk to/poor location. Very noisy street all day long. Room: VERY VERY BAD SMELL AND FILTHY. I immediately found hair/dust/other dirt all over the floor. Went to the front desk and they had someone "clean" the room with almost no change--remained dirty. SMELL IS HORRIBLE.... most reminded me of ammonia tat was constant. Very humid in the room, water all over the windows. Had to ask for towels several times even though we were 3 people in the room. Food: Two good on-sight dining options for dinner as we did not want to venture out for food. The breakfast was good as well but service is POOR. You have to find someone for water, coffee and tea. Silverware was dirty and had to find clean ones.

Authenticity & Character
Location
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ITC Mughal
Agra

Beautiful Hotel! Great service and greeting while checking in, escorted to the room and room overall. Clean, quiet and nice rooms. Breakfast was great, lots of choices, good lcoation for visiting the Taj Mahal.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Novotel New Delhi Aerocity Hotel
New Delhi

Stayed here <12h before a flight from Delhi to Chicago Check-in was challenging as there was not a clear line and as it goes in India, people have no sence in forming a cue. Recommend clear markings for lines and cues. Room was nice, clean and perfect for our stay. Only issue was the hair dryer was broken and started to burn my hand and smoke. We called the front desk, had it removed BUT they did not replace one. Food: good luck finding a cheap, quick option. Food buffet was expensive and more than we needed for the quick stay. We ended up going to the little cafe in the lower level but did NOT have a good experience. Lady did not write the order down, got it all wrong, chef was new and did not follow the menu. After discussing with the managers how the $13 hot dog was wrong, he comped a free dessert which our daughter loved. Overall--good for a quick stay before a long flight home

Authenticity & Character
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Staff
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Sawai Vilas
Sawai Madhopur

Gorgeous Hotel...5-star experience!! Just stunning grounds, pool is a dream and designed like a step well, gardens are lush and blooming. Great service on check-in, greeted with such kindness and showed to our room. All meals were amazing, service was excellent and lots of options for adults, vegetarians and kids. Staff made it easy to find our safari guides in the morning and evening. Provided warm blankets for the safari in the AM which was life saving. Rooms: beautiful inside, clean and spacious with lots of storage. Nice out door area for sitting. Only CON was the water was cold and had to call the staff twice to restore warm water. Weather was cold so this was important. Heat in the room was not great either, small space heater did not help much. Overall--really fantastic experience and would highly recommend this hotel! 5- star experience

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
ITC Rajputana
Jaipur

Gorgeous Hotel...5-star experience!! Great exerperience with check-in, lobby and refreshments after a long day of travel. Had dinner for Christmas Eve which the hotel did an amazing job putting together. Room was spacious, clean and overall nice. Breakfast had many options and food quality was good. ONLY Negative comment is when going to breakfast, we were twice met with a unfriendly gentleman who did not want to seat us (party of 3) as the only tables he had left were for 6-people or more. And there were 10+ tables like this. I was persistant and he finally left us sit down. Also very hard to order coffee/tea unless you flag down someone. I guess the wait staff want to servce only those who provide large tips.

Authenticity & Character
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Local specialist: Jay Kajaria

Amazing experience. Highly recommendable!
India | Dec 31 - Jan 7, 2023

Miguel
Miguel O.
United Kingdom | Reviewed on Jan 08, 2023

I've contacted Active India through Kimkim and I must say that I've really enjoyed my experience!

As a start, and to make the communication easy during the trip, I was added to a WhatsApp group with Ravi and the Active India emergency number and I gave consistent feedback and requested to book for optional trips. The response to my queries were really quick.

Active India are really attentive and I felt like they were looking after me during the trip. They've got the details from my... read more

I've contacted Active India through Kimkim and I must say that I've really enjoyed my experience!

As a start, and to make the communication easy during the trip, I was added to a WhatsApp group with Ravi and the Active India emergency number and I gave consistent feedback and requested to book for optional trips. The response to my queries were really quick.

Active India are really attentive and I felt like they were looking after me during the trip. They've got the details from my emergency contact and of my insurance policy at the very start of the trip.
Also they hotels they booked for me were of really high standard and located close to the main places I wanted to visit.

I've had the chance to meet 5 tour guides during the trip and all of them were experienced and knew very well about the trip location as they were mostly locals and knew where the hidden gems were. My only advice is that if you are not willing to shop anything and you are more into visiting the cities or landmarks, then that you make clear from the very beginning that you don't want to go to any shop and that you would rather invest your time in visiting the city or other places of interest. You could end up stuck in one of these shops for an hour!

Finally, my special mention goes to my driver Umesh. He has been with me during all the trip and took me to all the places I visited (Delhi, Jaipur, Ranthambore and Agra). He has been really punctual and professional and also took good care of me.

If you're planning to book your holidays in India and want to book a guide and someone to book the hotels and transport on your behalf, don't hesitate to contact Active India!

Local specialist: Ravi Tickoo

Excellent trip! Only wish we had more time :)
India | Dec 11 - Dec 17, 2022

Meg
Meg G.
Landover, MD | Reviewed on Dec 22, 2022

Excellent Trip! Only wish we had more time :) read more

Excellent Trip! Only wish we had more time :)

Hotel Reviews
Francis Residence

Mr. Francis and Ruby were very kind and thougtful. Clean rooms, good care, excellent location.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel PepperVine
Thekkady, Kumily, Kerala

The sheets, curtains, shower curtain were initially moldy/dirty. We requested a clean change and they did this very quickly. However, the walls still had black mold and the sheets were wet with humidity. The service and food were good but I would likely not recommend for the cleanliness factor.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Humidity control. Better cleaning.
Marari Beach Resort

Very cool resort, right on the beach! Excellent, food, pool, activities, etc. Great place to wind down after a week of activities. Really greatful to the staff and resort for their hospitality.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Fragrant Nature Munnar

Cannot beat the views! Very clean and comfortable. Munnar was the highlight of the trip because we had this hotel to relax in after a day of intensive hiking.

Authenticity & Character
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Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Cochin Sightseeing
Cochin

Sebastian, our guide, was great!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hike to Sevenmalai Hills - Tea Museum Tour
Munnar

Great experience hiking in and around the seven hills. A real highlight of the trip. We had a bit of a rock scramble and would recommend proper shoes for this and Periyar. We're not athletes by any means and made the treck just fine.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Spice Plantation Walk in Periyar
Periyar

Enjoyed this experience, wish I had brought proper hiking shoes for the mud. If I were to go again I would do both the Periyar hike + the raft ride. It was a bit far to travel (8 hrs) for the "plantation" tour (1 hr) and park walk (2 hr). Learned lots about spices and plants! Super fun!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Jungle Walk
Periyar
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Marari - Alleppey: Day Cruise aboard Houseboat
Marari

Did not do this.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Free Day at Marari Beach
Marari

Could not say enough about how cool this resort is!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Marari - Cochin - Delhi (AI834 - 20:30 hrs)
Cochin
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ravi Tickoo
Ravi
Ravi Tickoo
Local specialist in New Delhi | Reviewed on Dec 30, 2022

Thank you Meg for this lovely review. we have taken note of all important points of your valuable feedback . We look forward to welcome you again for your next India holiday,

Best Regards