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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

Experience the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the New World, at sunrise
Map of India's Golden Triangle & Kerala Adventure - 15 Days
India's Golden Triangle & Kerala Adventure - 15 Days

Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime that will take you to the highlights of both northern and southern India. First, discover the ancient forts and Mughal history of New Delhi, India's capital and largest city, plus dive into the country's famous street food scene. Then, you're off to the state of Rajasthan for cooking classes, cultural experiences, and browsing the bazaars of Jaipur and Udaipur before heading south to enjoy beach time, boat cruises, and nature hikes in beautiful Kerala.

Discover the hidden gem of Arunachal Pradesh in India's northeastern corner
Map of Splendors of Northeastern India: Arunachal Pradesh at a Glance - 8 Days
Splendors of Northeastern India: Arunachal Pradesh at a Glance - 8 Days

This eight-day journey through India's Arunachal Pradesh, the "Land of the Dawn-lit Mountains," will show you India as you've never seen it before. Use Guwahati as your starting point to explore the northern state, which borders China and Bhutan. See orchids and tigers in Bhalukpong, visit a yak research center in the Himalaya-ringed Dirang Valley, and climb to the Tawang Monastery, hidden in clouds on a steep mountainside overlooking a picturesque valley.

Tranquil morning at Jal Mahal Water Palace at sunrise in Jaipur
Map of Highlights of Tamil Nadu, Kerala & Rajasthan - 15 Days
Highlights of Tamil Nadu, Kerala & Rajasthan - 15 Days

Discover the highlights of three Indian states on this 15-day south-to-north trip. Start in Tamil Nadu, where you can discover ancient temples, opulent palaces, and plenty of colonial architecture. In Kerala, you'll cruise through the Backwaters on a houseboat, enjoy a Kathakali performance, and learn how to cook local dishes. Continue the cooking lesson in Jaipur, then head to Jodhpur to explore Mehrangarh Fort. End with another cultural performance, boat ride, and city tour in Udaipur.

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
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Map 6 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
6 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 15 Days in India - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
15 Days in India - 4 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 4 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 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 Sebastiaan Naus
active 2 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...
Travel specialist Rajat Gupta
active 4 hours ago

Rajat Gupta

I am a travel specialist based in India with over 12 years of experience designing personalized journeys across the country. I help travelers explore India beyond the highlights, with a focus on...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for India

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

A fabulous trip to pilgrimage sites in north India
India | Mar 6 - Mar 16, 2026

Jennifer
Jennifer M.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Mar 30, 2026
My trip to northern India was fabulous! Rajat was an excellent facilitator of the planning process, preparing me well for the entire trip. He was also excellent at helping me make adjustments in the trip when needed. And the guides and drivers in all of the cities I visited were excellent, each with their own local knowledge and passion for their work. The hotels were all reasonably priced and well suited for visiting westerners, including delicious food. Overall, the trip far exceeded my... Read more

My trip to northern India was fabulous! Rajat was an excellent facilitator of the planning process, preparing me well for the entire trip. He was also excellent at helping me make adjustments in the trip when needed. And the guides and drivers in all of the cities I visited were excellent, each with their own local knowledge and passion for their work. The hotels were all reasonably priced and well suited for visiting westerners, including delicious food. Overall, the trip far exceeded my expectations. I can’t say enough good things about the wonderful people who guided and supported my visit. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Anand International
Gaya

Hotel and rooms were nicely appointed and food was excellent. The only problem was the room was always full of mosquitoes. Not good.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Kanha Shyam Prayagraj
Alllahabad

Excellent hotel with great food and beautiful rooms with very nice views

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Pristine Hotel
Varanasi

Very nice rooms, great food, and helpful staff

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel The Great Ganga
Rishikesh

Nicely appointed hotel in great location overlooking the city and the river

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
NUO By juSTa
New Delhi

Very nice hotel in interesting location

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Triveni Sangam Visit and Spiritual Sites in Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad)
Triveni Sangam Visit and Spiritual Sites in Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad)
Allahabad

The boat ride to the confluence of the rivers was an excellent way to start the day. I chose not to do the holy dip myself given the state of the water, but it was meaningful to be part of such a large group of pilgrims. The temples after the boat ride were even more interesting. Ending with a visit to the shivalaya park was very interesting and gave a broader sense for India as a whole.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Meditation and Reflection at Maharishi Samarak
Allahabad

This was a highlight of the trip for me. The samarak was away from the city and so was quiet and less crowded. It was an excellent place to meditate.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visiting Ghats and attend Ganga Aarti
Visiting Ghats and attend Ganga Aarti
Varanasi

This was a great way to end the day, especially with a boat ride to return to the first ghat. The ceremony was crowded so seating was limited so it was good the guide got me there plenty early.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Spiritual Exploration of Temples and Ghats in Varanasi
Spiritual Exploration of Temples and Ghats in Varanasi
Varanasi

This day included a lot of walking through very narrow and crowded walkways between densely packed buildings. A fantastic experience. And the temple visit was handled very smoothly. All great.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sunrise Boat Ride on the River Ganges
Sunrise Boat Ride on the River Ganges
Varanasi

This boat ride was an excellent way to start the day, particularly since it started near the place where the sunrise chanting was happening. Amazing. And the boat ride made it much easier to see the full range of ghats along the Ganges.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Rishikesh Spiritual Walking Tour with Ganga Aarti
Full Day Rishikesh Spiritual Walking Tour with Ganga Aarti
Rishikesh

An excellent day. The guide was especially flexible and also worked very hard to ensure I had the best possible opportunities given his status as an official guide with Incredible India.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Rajat Gupta
Rajat
Rajat Gupta
Local specialist in Delhi | Replied on Mar 30, 2026

Dear Jennifer,

Thank you so much for your lovely words. Reading this truly made my day.
And I am really happy to know that you had such a meaningful and enjoyable journey and that everything came together well. It was a pleasure planning this trip with you and being part of this special experience.

Your kind feedback means a lot to us including everyone involved on the ground. Wishing you good health and many more beautiful journeys ahead. I would be happy to welcome you again anytime. Safe travels.

Warm regards,
Rajat

10 amazing days in India
India | Mar 10 - Mar 19, 2026

robert
robert w.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Mar 26, 2026
The guides were very good, our guide in Jodhpur was amazing. All of them made us feel safe and comfortable, and we're very knowledgeable on their cities and Indian history. Our driver was as professional as it gets, always focused on our trip, bringing us to some great restaurants. We felt the order of our visits were perfect - starting in Delhi gave us a good introduction and not knowing anything about the other cities, each one brought a new experience and made us say wow each and ever... Read more

The guides were very good, our guide in Jodhpur was amazing. All of them made us feel safe and comfortable, and we're very knowledgeable on their cities and Indian history. Our driver was as professional as it gets, always focused on our trip, bringing us to some great restaurants. We felt the order of our visits were perfect - starting in Delhi gave us a good introduction and not knowing anything about the other cities, each one brought a new experience and made us say wow each and ever time. We truely enjoyed every visit.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Suba Palace,
Mumbai

Hotel was under some renovations so may be better soon. Close to India Gate and nice restaurants but gets lost on a side street

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Karohi Haveli

Very neat old hotel with lots of character. It could use a little more attention, especially the pool area.

Authenticity & Character
Great roof top views
Location
Great location for walking around the old town.
Staff
Small but dedicated staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Devi Bhawan
Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Beautiful grounds, peaceful location. The only thing keeping this from a higher rating would be some room updates.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dera Rawatsar

Small boutique hotel that the staff are very proud of and attentive.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Grand Mercure Agra
Agra, UP

Decent location, very professional staff, hotel is impressive.

Authenticity & Character
Location
You can see the Taj Mahal. From the roof top pool and bar. Not a lot of walking options nearby.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Deventure Sarovar Portico

Decent hotel, location is lacking, restaurant was good.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Mumbai - Elephanta Caves
Mumbai - Elephanta Caves
Mumbai

We had extra time so this was a good filler tour but not a mustbif you are in Mumbai for a short period.

Guided Half Day Tour of Mumbai
Guided Half Day Tour of Mumbai
Mumbai

To be honest, we weren't expecting much of Mumbai and this was very good. Wish we had more time to go in buildings rather than in and out of the car to look at them from outside.

Udaipur Sightseeing
Udaipur Sightseeing
Udaipur

Udaipur is such an incredible change of pace from the others. This is the one city where more free time to explore is needed since the old town is so walkable.

Jodhpur Sightseeing
Jodhpur Sightseeing
Jodhpur

Probably our favorite stop of the trip.

Jaipur Sightseeing  Tour
Jaipur Sightseeing Tour
Jaipur

Loves the tour, could have spent more time at the sights. The afternoon time to relax was good because of the heat.

Spiritual Walk in Jaipur
Spiritual Walk in Jaipur
Jaipur

A good late afternoon and evening introction to Jaipur.

Explore Agra Fort in the afternoon and see sunset at the Taj Mahal.
Explore Agra Fort in the afternoon and see sunset at the Taj Mahal.
Agra

The Agra Fort was a great startband build up to seeing the Taj Mahal which speaks for itself, amazing. We spent quite a bit of time here and should have spent more.

New Delhi Sightseeing
New Delhi Sightseeing
India

Mostly done from the car, a little more time seeing sites by foot would be nice.

Old Delhi Sightseeing
Old Delhi Sightseeing
Delhi
Free Time in Delhi
Free Time in Delhi
India

Our free time was only at the hotel. But we arrived late the first day. The second day we would have walked around if we could but the location wasn't good for that.

Local specialist: Ravi Tickoo

A golden trip around the Golden Triangle
India | Mar 8 - Mar 22, 2026

Adam
Adam W.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Mar 25, 2026
We are so pleased with our visit arranged by Active India. Everyone with whom we interacted was kind, responsive, and knowledgeable. When we first approached KimKim and Active India, we had a broad idea of what we wanted to do during our trip. Ravi helped refine our itinerary with several iterations, throughout which he showed great patience. This was a quality that we observed during our entire trip by everyone, including our guides Nadim (Delhi), Dheeraj (Agra), and Surya (Jaipur).... Read more

We are so pleased with our visit arranged by Active India. Everyone with whom we interacted was kind, responsive, and knowledgeable. When we first approached KimKim and Active India, we had a broad idea of what we wanted to do during our trip. Ravi helped refine our itinerary with several iterations, throughout which he showed great patience. This was a quality that we observed during our entire trip by everyone, including our guides Nadim (Delhi), Dheeraj (Agra), and Surya (Jaipur). Together, they made sure that we got the most out of our trip to the Golden Triangle. Our driver, Mr. Chandan, was prompt, efficient, and always in control. We appreciated the communication through WhatsApp during our entire trip. The team even went out of their way to include some birthday treats for my wife, which made her day even more special. There is a lot in India that can overwhelm Western travelers on their first visit, but thanks to Active India, we are already thinking about future trips to explore other parts of this fascinating country.

Local specialist: Ravi Tickoo
Ravi
Ravi Tickoo
Local specialist in New Delhi | Replied on Mar 30, 2026
Dear Adam,
Thank you so much for your incredibly kind and thoughtful feedback! It truly means a lot to all of us at Active India.
We are delighted to hear that you had such a positive experience throughout your journey and that the itinerary matched your expectations so well. It was a pleasure working with you to refine the program, and I truly appreciate your patience and collaboration during the planning process. Your kind words for our guides will certainly be shared with them; they will... Read more

Dear Adam,
Thank you so much for your incredibly kind and thoughtful feedback! It truly means a lot to all of us at Active India.

We are delighted to hear that you had such a positive experience throughout your journey and that the itinerary matched your expectations so well. It was a pleasure working with you to refine the program, and I truly appreciate your patience and collaboration during the planning process.

Your kind words for our guides will certainly be shared with them; they will be thrilled to know they helped make your journey memorable. I’m also glad to hear that the little birthday surprise added a special touch to your trip!

India can indeed feel overwhelming at first, so it’s especially rewarding to know that you felt well-supported and comfortable throughout your travels. That’s exactly the experience we strive to create for all our guests.

We would be absolutely delighted to assist you again in planning your next visit to India. There is so much more to explore, and we would love to help you discover it at your own pace.

Wishing you both many wonderful memories from this trip, and we look forward to welcoming you back again soon!

Warm regards,
Ravi

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