Asia Brochure 2023

TAJ MAHAL

India

DELHI

JAIPUR

A country of epic proportions, India has no shortage of monumental sights to see. Trips here are often described as life-altering. Discovering why may just be your greatest journey yet.

INDIA

I ndia’s crowning jewels - quite literally - are the Himalayas. Nestled along the country’s northern border, you’ll find mighty mountains dusted with snow and sharp valleys covered in a blanket of emerald flora. This peaceful region appears almost empty from afar, but the scattering of remote monasteries and mountain villages proves otherwise. Here, travellers attracted to adventure congregate, setting out on winding rail tours and high-altitude treks. Still very much a part of India’s North, Delhi is situated roughly 500 kilometres below this epic mountain range. Home to towering sandstone forts and colossal-sized spice markets, the city provides a gateway to some of the country’s top attractions. The vast state of Rajasthan - framed by distant mountains and a dusty desert landscape - sits to the west. Then, to the east, you have Agra, which is the city surrounding the Taj Mahal and requires little introduction. Central India is where the wild things are. The Bengal tiger is unsurprisingly the star attraction, but the leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, and deer are undoubtedly captivating. Safaris through the popular Bandhavgarh National Park religiously prove to be worth the journey. However, those willing to venture beyond the beaten path will find a plethora of hidden wonders, such as

clifftop temples, sacred monuments, and ancient pilgrimage sites, to name but a few. Perched at the top of the country’s western coastline, Mumbai – the birthplace of Bollywood – is joyously ‘full of life’. Boasting an eclectic array of architecture and an equally exciting culinary scene, like much of India, it presents a fascinating mix of old and new. From here, an hour-long flight can take you to Goa. Fun-loving and laid-back, best known for its palm-adorned beaches, it’s an ideal counterbalance to the hustle and bustle of Mumbai. And, finally, there’s Kerala – the beating heart of Southern India. Somewhat characterised by its tropical climate, it displays a flush of natural beauty that never runs dry. From the delicate lily pads that float atop the tranquil backwaters to the subtle scents of pepper, cardamom, and coffee that stir above the emerald hills and paddy fields, it’s a landscape laced with magic. Of course, Kerala is not the only one with that spiritual quality. And while we’re giving you a taste of what’s in store, letting your imagination take the reins is what holidays to India are all about. So, if you’re ready to start dreaming, we’re right there with you.

The Essentials

BEST TIME TO GO For the best weather across the country, visit India between October and March. FUN FACT The popular board game ‘Snakes and Ladders’ was first created and played in ancient India. TOP TIP While India is multilingual, knowing a few Hindi phrases will always come in handy.