India

Delve into the unmatched beauty of India’s great outdoors where tigers reign supreme and the forest is a haven for flora and fauna. Intrepidly explore the far-flung corners of this nation where it be the peaks of the Himalaya or the sandy beaches of a secluded private island. Our expert team will help you make sense of this incredible nation by taking you beyond the ordinary.

It is a monument to love, an architectural gem, and breathtaking example of history all wrapped into one. Waking early to witness dawn bathing the Taj Mahal in soft pastel hues and golden tones might just bring tears to your eyes and stir your soul. Here’s a tissue…

Transformative Travels — There are many things in India that may take you out of your comfort zone, which we believe is a good thing. For some it might be exploring on foot a chaotic bustling city slum and finding mutual humanity despite impoverished conditions. For others it may be pushing your physical limits on a hike or trek and being humbled by the magnitude of nature in the far reaches of the Himalayan range.  Still, others might find growth and enrichment meeting tribal people who own their identity and cling to their indigenous way of life. No matter what your boundaries of your comfort zone, we hope they will be broader by the time you complete your travels in India. We often hear this from our travelers; a trip to India is a life changing experience, and you are not the same person you were when you arrived.

Festivals of India – The vibrancy of this nation shines a bit brighter during one of the many festivals held annually. Be covered in a rain of colors during Holi, experience the traditions of the Pushkar Camel Festival, be immersed in tribal customs at the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, or celebrate good over evil, the end of the harvest and the dawn of a new year at the festival of lights at Deepavali. High energy and an assault on your senses, festivals are an essential part of life in India and we give you a window into the soul of them. Please note that festival dates vary each year.

Hidden gem— Who needs mountains? Although India is famous for stunning mountain ranges with amazing trekking and hiking. We suggest beach treks along the balmy coastline of Karnataka. Soft sand underfoot and palm trees swaying along the ocean front—this is a rare adventure! Climb rocky crags, visit historic forts and ancient temples, and find serenity and solace in the rhythm of the waves.

• The airline choices are plenty. There are non-stop options from US gateways and a choice of airlines with comfortable lay overs in a European hub or via the Middle East.
• We recommend 12-21 days in India. It is a perfect complement to the other mountain realms of Nepal or Bhutan or with a relaxing island getaway to Sri Lanka, Maldives, or Mauritius.
• India is recommended for inquisitive travelers seeking to know more about history, culture, wildlife, food, and life in general.
• Visas are required for most visitors and should be secured in advance. Inoculations are recommended and we suggest you see a travel medicine specialist for advice.
• India’s domestic flight network is far better than the road system, however traveling by road to some of the cities can be comfortable and very scenic.
• English is the official language of India. Hindi is the national language. English is widely spoken throughout the country.
• India rightfully boasts of outstanding hospitality and excellent licensed tour guides.
• Cuisine in India is just as diverse as the nation itself—but equally delicious and full of flavor. You will find varied international and local dishes with fresh ingredients. Vegetarian choices are abundant and special diets can be accommodated easily.

The most popular time to visit India is from October to March, during the winter when temperatures tend to be moderate and dry. The Himalayas stop the cold winds from reaching most of India, so much of the country experiences a tropical climate with warm winters and very hot humid summers.

Boutique properties abound in many locations, often in converted historic homes. Palaces and forts have been refurbished to give a feel of the heritage of the culture and upscale hotels scattered throughout the country will blow your mind with their ambiance. Every property booked on a Rothschild Safari is vetted by staff and offer the highest standards in each category.