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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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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
India map: 2 Weeks in India - 2 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in India - 2 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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India map: 8 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
8 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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India map: 12 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
12 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 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 Ravi Tickoo
active 22 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...

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Travel specialist Jay Kajaria
active 22 hours 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 Mandeep Gill

Mandeep Gill

I have a passion for exploring new regions of my country, embracing different cultures and enjoying local food and drinks! The diversity of India intrigues me, which drives me to learn more and...

read more...

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Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan

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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

The professionalism and hospitality of all th...
India | May 12 - May 24, 2023

Jana
Jana W.
Kissimmee, FL | Reviewed on May 28, 2023

The professionalism and hospitality of all the staff from Active India Holidays, including tour guides, driver and itinerary designers are top notch and exceeded my expectations. I felt treated like royalty everyday with the utter most consideration and care. Ravi and Priya planned an unforgettable two weeks Golden Triangle - Rajasthan tour for me that allowed me to gain a deep appreciation and admiration for India's rich history and cultural contribution to our humanity! They were were also... read more

The professionalism and hospitality of all the staff from Active India Holidays, including tour guides, driver and itinerary designers are top notch and exceeded my expectations. I felt treated like royalty everyday with the utter most consideration and care. Ravi and Priya planned an unforgettable two weeks Golden Triangle - Rajasthan tour for me that allowed me to gain a deep appreciation and admiration for India's rich history and cultural contribution to our humanity! They were were also very flexible and accommodating with providing me professional photographers at major sight seeing spots and left me with great memories both in the mind and in print! The tour guides were all very knowledgeable and did their best to ensure I had an amazing time.
Finally I had the best driver Venud who took such good care of me every day and enjoyed our conversations from long drives from city to city.
I highly recommend Active India Holiday to anyone planning a trip to India, whether for their first time or return visits. I myself will be planning more trips with them!

Local specialist: Ravi Tickoo
Ravi
Ravi Tickoo
Local specialist in New Delhi | Replied on May 30, 2023

Dear Jana,
Many Thanks for your lovely feedback. We are truly indebted by your kind words. This is really encouraging for all of us.

Many Thanks for everything. We look forward to welcome you for your next India adventure in near future.

Thanks
Ravi

Once in a lifetime trip!
India | Apr 29 - May 8, 2023

Dena
Dena J.
Newington, CT | Reviewed on May 14, 2023

Incredible, once in a lifetime trip for
start to finish! Loved being able to customize our itinerary to eliminate tourist traps and see a little bit of the real
India and Nepal. The best part of our trip was our guides and drivers.

We started with Raj and Ravi in New Dehli. Ravi was such a safe and courteous driver. Especially given how chaotic the roads can be, his skills were extremely impressive!

In Kathmandu, Mugtha was an incredible guide. He knew the country in and out. He... read more

Incredible, once in a lifetime trip for
start to finish! Loved being able to customize our itinerary to eliminate tourist traps and see a little bit of the real
India and Nepal. The best part of our trip was our guides and drivers.

We started with Raj and Ravi in New Dehli. Ravi was such a safe and courteous driver. Especially given how chaotic the roads can be, his skills were extremely impressive!

In Kathmandu, Mugtha was an incredible guide. He knew the country in and out. He truly made each site come alive and was extremely flexible to make sure we had the best time possible. Our driver was also great!

When we returned to New Delhi, our driver Pintar drove us to Agra. He was with us the remaining days of the trip and he was so kind! He made the long drive as painless as possible and whenever we returned from touring had cold water at the ready.

Nishant in Agra and Hitesh in Jaipur were incredible guides. Both great ambassadors for their cities. They were extremely knowledgeable and made sure our needs were being met. We added an extra tour in Jaipur on our last day and insisted Hitesh be our guide. Our Mughal village tour guide in Agra was also fantastic!

Hotel Reviews
Hyatt Place Kathmandu
Kathmandu

Extremely attentive and detail-oriented staff. Exceptionally clean and modern. Big room. Great spa!

Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Taj Palace Delhi
New Delhi
Location
Staff
Trident Jaipur
Jaipur
Location
Staff
Trident Agra
Agra
Staff
Local specialist: Jay Kajaria

A fabulous trip to enchanting India
India | Jan 27 - Feb 13, 2023

John
John E.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Apr 18, 2023

Our 16-day trip was planned around a visit to the Taj Mahal, which we saved for the end. And it was even better than we imagined! Most of our time was spent visiting forts, palaces, temples and other historic sights in Rajasthan. By our request, we mostly stayed in heritage-type hotels. A highlight (among many) was seeing a mating pair of tigers in Ranthembore National Park -- up close and personal! Our excellent travel planner, Ravi Tickoo, worked with us every step of the way to insure we... read more

Our 16-day trip was planned around a visit to the Taj Mahal, which we saved for the end. And it was even better than we imagined! Most of our time was spent visiting forts, palaces, temples and other historic sights in Rajasthan. By our request, we mostly stayed in heritage-type hotels. A highlight (among many) was seeing a mating pair of tigers in Ranthembore National Park -- up close and personal! Our excellent travel planner, Ravi Tickoo, worked with us every step of the way to insure we were getting the vacation trip we wanted. Our driver, Vinod, was fantastic. He took great care of us and knew all of the good restaurants and nice bathrooms along the way. Our guides at the historic sights were all very good, although a few had very heavy accents. Standouts were Ketan in Delhi, Raghu in Jodhpur, and Harish in Agra -- excellent guides! Overall, a fabulous trip to an enchanting country.

Local specialist: Ravi Tickoo
Ravi
Ravi Tickoo
Local specialist in New Delhi | Replied on Apr 20, 2023

“Thank you, John. Many thanks for your positive feedback and a 5-star rating.”

We are grateful that you took the time out to leave us a review with and are happy to hear that you enjoyed your trip with Active India. Trust us, you’ve made our day immensely better by sharing your experience. We hope to see you again. Have a nice day ahead!