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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.

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.

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
Map of Highlights of Ladakh: Leh, Nubra Valley & Pangong Tso - 7 Days
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. Start by exploring the city of Leh and touring the surrounding monasteries, then head to the Nubra Valley (whose Tibetan name means "valley of flowers") for sightseeing and a camel safari. Your next stop will be Pangong Tso, a sprawling lake known for its blue-green waters. Afterward, pass by scenic Sindhu Ghat and visit a local children's NGO, before returning to Leh for one last stroll through its colorful markets.

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
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

The tranquil scenery of Kerala's "backwaters"
Map of Experience Kerala: India's Backroads & Backwaters - 9 Days
Experience Kerala: India's Backroads & Backwaters - 9 Days

Leave the tourist trail behind on this nine-day exploration of the diverse southern Indian state of Kerala. Touch down in Cochin to explore its historic sights, then wind through the verdant tea plantations of the Western Ghats to reach Munnar. Spot exotic wildlife on a sunrise hike through Periyar National Park, hop on a houseboat to spend a night floating down the waterways of Alappuzha, and soak up the sun on the sands of Marari Beach.

An Indian worship offering
Map of Highlights of Buddhist India: Varanasi & Bodhgaya - 7 Days
Highlights of Buddhist India: Varanasi & Bodhgaya - 7 Days

Follow the trail of Buddhism as you explore the northeastern part of India, not far from Nepal. Land in Delhi before visiting Varanasi to witness the evening prayer ceremony. Float along the Ganges at sunrise as you observe Hindu pilgrims offer prayers on the ghats (stairs leading to the river) before purifying themselves in the river. Head to Bodhgaya to walk in the steps of Lord Buddha as you discover a circuit of holy bodhi trees and crucial sites linked to Buddhism in India.

See ancient wonders like the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai
Map of Temple Tour of Southern India: Tamil Nadu & Kerala - 12 Days
Temple Tour of Southern India: Tamil Nadu & Kerala - 12 Days

Explore the rich culture of the southern Indian states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala on this epic 12-day tour. Start in Chennai, then wander the charming streets of Pondicherry's French Quarter. Hop between ancient temples on the drive south to Tanjore, and savor Madurai's famous street food before strolling through the spice gardens of Periyar. After an overnight houseboat cruise through the backwaters of Alappuzha, relax on the beaches of Marari and end your adventure with a traditional dance show in Cochin.

India Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 2 Weeks in India - 2 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in India - 2 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 15 Days in India - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
15 Days in India - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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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 Ravi Tickoo
active 1 min 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 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 Jay Kajaria
active 9 mins 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 Sebastiaan Naus
active 3 days ago

Sebastiaan Naus

Being born in the lowlands of Holland, my passion for mountains may not seem logical. However, my parents took me to the European Alps before I could barely walk and I can't remember any family...

read more...

Related Destinations

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Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan

Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

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Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

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Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.

100% satisfaction guarantee
Kimkim offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not fully satisfied with us, we’ll work with you to make it right.
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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

Fantastic few days in Pondicherry.
India | Mar 7 - Mar 12, 2024

A
Alastair A.
United Kingdom | Reviewed on Mar 14, 2024

Logan our driver was great and our guide in Pondicherry was very knowledgeable. This was a fantastic trip with lovely hotels. We didn't need a representative to meet us at the airport hotel. We could have sorted this out ourselves and actually it made us think that there might have been a problem.

Local specialist: Jay Kajaria

Amazing trip with Active India
India | Feb 24 - Feb 28, 2024

Berat
Berat O.
Turkey | Reviewed on Mar 01, 2024
Everything from the start to the end of my trip was amazing! The guides were kind, knowledgeable and helpful. My driver Puran was the best! The plan was well curated and all schedule was punctual. Everybody on the Active India team made sure my 5-day trip in India was perfect with high level of professionalism. I also had the lovely opportunity to meet Ravi and he is a genuinely kind, generous person and an excellent travel agent who went above and beyond to make sure my experience in... Read more

Everything from the start to the end of my trip was amazing!

The guides were kind, knowledgeable and helpful. My driver Puran was the best! The plan was well curated and all schedule was punctual. Everybody on the Active India team made sure my 5-day trip in India was perfect with high level of professionalism. I also had the lovely opportunity to meet Ravi and he is a genuinely kind, generous person and an excellent travel agent who went above and beyond to make sure my experience in India was spotless.

Huge thanks to each one of you for arranging a dream trip! I wish I had at least 7 days to enjoy on the Golden Triangle at a slower pace but Active India made the best out of my limited time and showed me the wonders of India! THANK YOU:)

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Udman Ferns N Petals
New Delhi, Delhi
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dera Rawatsar

This is a beautiful heritage hotel with great character and authenticity. Breakfast and food was great, all staff excellent and rooms are all uniquely decorated. This was definitely the best hotel on the trip.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Retreat
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Guided Heritage Walk through Lodhi Garden
Guided Heritage Walk through Lodhi Garden
Delhi

This was a great place to stop by in Delhi.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Jaipur Sightseeing  Tour
Jaipur Sightseeing Tour
Jaipur

Jaipur is BEAUTIFUL. The architecture of the Mughals combined with Hindu elements was incredible. This was definitely the highlight of my trip.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Raj was great and he was energetic. He was very knowledgable and helpful.
Transport
Explore the marvelous  and historic monument : Agra Fort
Explore the marvelous and historic monument : Agra Fort
Agra

This is such a beautiful heritage site. Please don't miss it out. I want to go back!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
As always, Puran was great and punctual.
Transport
Taj Mahal Sunrise Visit
Taj Mahal Sunrise Visit
Agra

My guide Ronit was knowledgable and kind. He made sure I had the best info out of Taj Mahal.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Take a stroll through the historic garden for the most magical views of the Taj Mahal by TUK-TUK
Take a stroll through the historic garden for the most magical views of the Taj Mahal by TUK-TUK
Agra
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ravi Tickoo
Ravi
Ravi Tickoo
Local specialist in New Delhi | Replied on Mar 04, 2024

Dear Berat
Thank you so much for taking out time and sharing reviews of your recent trip to India! We are pleased to hear that you had a nice and enjoyable time while traveling with us. Thanks for your kind words and appreciation for the guides, driver, and all other Active India team members.

It was truly a pleasure meeting with you and knowing you in person.

I look forward to welcoming you again for another India experience,

Best Wishes,

Ravi & Team Active India

Daughter Mother trip to Northern India
India | Feb 18 - Feb 27, 2024

Mary
Mary R.
Pagosa Springs, CO | Reviewed on Mar 01, 2024
Our four local guides were excellent, each with the personality that suited the city. We cannot say enough nice things about Mr Pushcar, our driver! He was always on time, had water, hand sanitizer, wipes & candy. The car was immaculate. The Delhi local representative really made us feel comfortable & guided us through both the train station & the airport. Each one of the hotel properties were unique & very comfortable. Overall excellent trip!! Read more

Our four local guides were excellent, each with the personality that suited the city. We cannot say enough nice things about Mr Pushcar, our driver! He was always on time, had water, hand sanitizer, wipes & candy. The car was immaculate. The Delhi local representative really made us feel comfortable & guided us through both the train station & the airport. Each one of the hotel properties were unique & very comfortable. Overall excellent trip!!

Hotel Review
Nahargarh
Ranthambore

Beautiful property which whisked us back to the time of the Rajs coming there for safaris. The service was very good & food was tasty.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Udaipur Sightseeing
Udaipur Sightseeing
Udaipur

Wonderful experience at the Jagdish temple & Summer palace. He also went above & beyond to find a lady to do henna on our hands, something my daughter really wanted to do.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Morning and Evening game drives at Ranthambore:
Morning and Evening game drives at Ranthambore:
Ranthambore

Park was gorgeous & while we did not see a tiger we did see a leopards as well as lots of other wildlife . Unfortunately our naturalist seemed tired & bored, not engaging us even when I have a science background & would ask questions. Morning driver did an incredible job getting us to the leopard sighting.

Afternoon visit to Bagore ki Haveli and enjoy a cultural evening of Rajasthani Folk Dance
Afternoon visit to Bagore ki Haveli and enjoy a cultural evening of Rajasthani Folk Dance
Udaipur

We only went to the dance & the event was so crowded we saw almost nothing

Jaipur Sightseeing  Tour
Jaipur Sightseeing Tour
Jaipur

Our guide Hans really exemplifies the vibrancy of this city! Incredible architecture! Elephant ride was so much fun!!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Taj Mahal Sunrise Visit
Taj Mahal Sunrise Visit
Agra

What can you say when you see one of the 7 wonders of the world when almost no one else is there? I can’t find the world to describe how beautiful this is & the testament to a great love

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Old Delhi Sightseeing
Old Delhi Sightseeing
Delhi

Visiting Old Delhi & soaking up the sights & sounds & incredible food was a great start to our India tour. A visit to the Sikh gurdwara was one of the highlights of the day.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Market Visit, Cooking Class, and Dinner with Local Family
Market Visit, Cooking Class, and Dinner with Local Family
Jaipur

Loved spending time with the Singh family. They were so welcoming & food was delicious!

Quality of Experience
Food
Local specialist: Ravi Tickoo
Ravi
Ravi Tickoo
Local specialist in New Delhi | Replied on Mar 07, 2024

Dear Mary,
Namaste!
Thank you so much for your reviews. we are happy to hear you and your daughter had a nice and enjoyable trip to India. Pleased to hear your positive impression of the itinerary/trip plan and appreciation for our local guides, Car, and driver. Your positive feedback is very motivating for me and my team to make efforts to improve further our services.

we look forward to welcoming you again in India for another adventure,

Best Regards,

Ravi