Goa is a state in western India with coastlines stretching along the Arabian Sea. Its long history as a Portuguese colony prior to 1961 is evident in its preserved 17th-century churches and the area’s tropical spice plantations. Goa is also known for its beaches, ranging from popular stretches at Baga and Palolem to those in laid-back fishing villages such as Agonda.
The 'backwaters' is the name of the enchanting palm-lined waterways that are synonymous with Kerala. A cruise immerses you in a labyrinthine network of rivers, inlets, lagoons and lakes parallel with the Arabian Sea coast. Delightfully scenic and tranquil, with abundant wildlife on display, these cruises take place in a unique landscape, with smaller vessels enabling you to visit remote areas that most tourist boats cannot. Traditional boats called kettuvallam are made by tying pieces of wood together with coir rope, made from coconut fibres.
Kerala, a state on India's tropical Malabar Coast, has nearly 600km of Arabian Sea shoreline. It's known for its palm-lined beaches and backwaters, a network of canals. Inland are the Western Ghats, mountains whose slopes support tea, coffee and spice plantations as well as wildlife.
The Andaman Islands are an Indian archipelago in the Bay of Bengal. These roughly 300 islands are known for their palm-lined, white-sand beaches, mangroves and tropical rainforests. Coral reefs supporting marine life such as sharks and rays make for popular diving and snorkeling sites. Indigenous Andaman Islanders inhabit the more remote islands, many of which are off limits to visitors. Havelock Island is part of Ritchie’s Archipelago, in India’s Andaman Islands. It’s known for its dive sites and beaches, like Elephant Beach, with its coral reefs. Crescent-shaped Radhanagar Beach is a popular spot for watching the sunset. On the island’s east side, rocky sections mark long, tree-lined Vijaynagar Beach. The island's forested interior is home to birdlife such as white-headed mynas and woodpeckers.
Bandhavgarh National Park is in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. This biodiverse park is known for its large population of royal Bengal tigers, especially in the central Tala zone. Other animals include white tigers, leopards and deer. The mix of tropical forest, Sal trees and grassland is home to scores of bird species, including eagles. To the south are the remains of the ancient Bandhavgarh Fort.
Ranthambore National Park is a vast wildlife reserve near the town of Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan, northern India. It is a former royal hunting ground and home to tigers, leopards and marsh crocodiles. Its landmarks include the imposing 10th-century Ranthambore Fort, on a hilltop, and the Ganesh Mandir temple. Also in the park, Padam Talao Lake is known for its abundance of water lilies. SUJÁN Sher Bagh transports you to the glamorous 1920s, evoking the romance of living under canvas whilst on safari in India's most celebrated Tiger Reserve.
The Maharajas' Express is a luxury tourist train owned and operated by Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation. It serves four routes across North-West and Central India, mainly centred on Rajasthan between the months of October and April. A fascinating voyage across some of the finest destinations in India let you discover the true spirit of this incredible nation. An amalgamation of style, luxury, lavishness and grandeur – Maharajas’ Express enjoys the status of being India’s most opulent luxury train. The cabins are adorned with rich tapestry, linen, upholstery, wall-to-wall carpeting, semi-precious stones and antiques. During your journey, enjoy the beautiful scenery whizzing by from the huge panoramic windows.
Delhi, India’s capital territory, is a massive metropolitan area in the country’s north. In Old Delhi, a neighborhood dating to the 1600s, stands the imposing Mughal-era Red Fort, a symbol of India, and the sprawling Jama Masjid mosque, whose courtyard accommodates 25,000 people. Nearby is Chandni Chowk, a vibrant bazaar filled with food carts, sweets shops and spice stalls.
Udaipur, formerly the capital of the Mewar Kingdom, is a city in the western Indian state of Rajasthan. Founded by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1559, it’s set around a series of artificial lakes and is known for its lavish royal residences. City Palace, overlooking Lake Pichola, is a monumental complex of 11 palaces, courtyards and gardens, famed for its intricate peacock mosaics. It is popularly known as the 'City of Lakes. ' It has many beautiful palaces, forts, museums, gardens, and places of sightseeing. This city is nestled by Aravalli hills and every palace is worth a visit for its stunning architecture and intricate work.
India evokes images of the splendid Taj Mahal and sunsets on the sacred Ganges River and of course spicy food. Arriving in this diverse country results in a splendid assault on all senses: the chaotic sounds of the street, the numerous aromas of animals, people and spices and the colourful sights best manifested in the Holi Festival where only two things are required: Water and Colour! Cricket is the most popular sport and India has one of the best national teams in the world. Mahatma Gandhi lead his country to the independence of India with a non-violent attitude. Tigers are the iconic symbol of Indian wildlife and can be glimpsed in some of the spectacular national parks. From the writhing streets of Mumbai to the idyllic shores of the Andaman Islands, this remarkable country offers a diverse feast for the senses. There’s a quote from the movie The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel that sums it up: “India hits you like a wave. If you resist, you will be knocked down. But if you dive into it, you will be alright.” and my absolute favourite, “Everything will be alright in the end so if it is not alright it is not the end.”
