Luxury trains

A journey on an Indian train is an experience of a lifetime. However, a journey on The Palace on Wheels, The Deccan Odyssey and The Golden Chariot trains is another world completely. From the moment you step on board, liveried waiters are at your beck and call providing you with the little luxuries of life – wonderful food, champagne, soft music…

Explore the romance of Rajasthan on the Palace of Wheels, whilst the Deccan Odyssey highlights the off the beaten track heritage of the glorious Maratha Empire. The Golden Chariot is a voyage of discovery through the untamed Deccan.

Spa & Wellbeing

Yoga retreats, spa hotels and hotels with spas are becoming evermore popular, springing up all over the world. India is home to a wonderful collection of them. They are scattered all over the subcontinent - in the hills, on the beach , in cities and they vary in style, comfort and price. Some offer traditional spa therapies and others offer Ayurvedic treatments.

Wildlife

The uniquely diverse topography and climate of India provides a natural habitat for an equally varied amount of wildlife, flora and fauna.

When visiting wildlife parks in India, game drives tend to take place in the early mornings, setting off just before sunrise and in the late afternoons. It is worth bearing in mind that it can be very chilly in the early mornings until the sun burns through to warm you up, and warm clothing is essential. Usually, when staying at lodges and camps in or near the parks, all meals and game drives are included. It is essential to pre-book game drives before visiting a wildlife park.

Homestays in India

All over India there are many different types of homes, their various architectural styles are typical of the area they are found in, the history of their owners and a range of social and religious traditions. There are the Havelis of Northern India and the Tharavadu houses in Kerala, the planters’ mansions on tea and spice plantations and the colonial bungalows.

Several Homestays can arrange activities for wellbeing activities such as yoga, ayurvedic treatments and massage. It is recommended that guests experience a few meals of local cuisine cooked by the family, as there is nothing better than home-cooked food; most hosts also offer cooking classes to guests if they are interested.

Depending on the location, Homestays can offer anything from adventure pursuits, artistic activities and experiencing local culture such as dance and music. You will find that your hosts are dedicated to making sure you enjoy everything that the region has to offer, not least family hospitality!