Travel & Cruise Guides and Tips | Fine Travel New Zealand

Intoxicating Holiday in India

Written by Fine Travel | 02/04/15 20:30

Wouldn’t it be fun to tread in the footsteps of Alexander the Great? See the Taj Mahal one of the Seven wonders of the World…up close and personal? One day, the majestic Himalaya; the next sun-washed beaches. India’s fascinating history, diverse culture and exceptional beauty will be forever etched in your mind.

The terrain of this vast continent is singularly dramatic and breathtaking. In the far north, snowy mountains reach for the sky. Yet the deep south presents sandy beaches languishing in the sun and azure waves whispering against the alabaster shore. Palm trees rustle gently in the sea breeze. You’ll think you fell asleep and awoke in an island paradise.

In India, natural beauty abounds, and adventure is there for the taking! You can scout for big jungle cats on a wildlife safari, trek high into the Himalaya, or take a relaxing stroll in the fresh scent of pines.

Allow Fine Travel to arrange an incomparable visit to the Golden Triangle. The cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur are a showcase of India’s rich Mughal and Rajput heritage—marvel at gleaming marble temples and tombs and the incomparable Taj Mahal. In 1632, the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan commissioned the Taj Mahal to house the worldly remains of his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal. This jewel of Muslim art stands on the southern bank of the Yamuna River in Arga.

Unique experiences are boundless. In Delhi, enjoy a rickshaw ride through the bustling streets. Agra’s red sandstone fortress offers fairy-tale palaces, audience halls and stately mosques built by the Mughal rulers. Seeing Fatehpur Sikri, an imperial complex built by Mughal emperor Akbar and abandoned in 1585 (shortly after its completion) is a spectacle you’ll want to add to your “Must See List”.

In West Bengal, explore the British heritage of Kolkata with its countless relics of the East India Company’s influence. The tea plantations of Darjeeling, of course, have strong ties to the British. The British and the Indians enjoy a good cup of tea. Who doesn’t? India is one of the largest tea growers in the world, but they consume over 70% of what is produced. This is your chance to relish the best tea in India.

At Ranthambore, a famous national park, stalk the elusive tiger. Then imagine spending a night at the glorious 475 year-old Samode Palace.

India is a cornucopia of culture. Indian folk and tribal dances are expressions of joy, performed on every possible occasion. Flamboyant costumes worn with glittering jewelry are a visual feast. The Bhangra of Punjab, with athletic leaps and jumps, is performed by men to the rhythm of the drum. Dancers even stand on each other's shoulders.

Art connoisseur? The country’s cultural history, religions and philosophies weave through its art. The myriad of folk and tribal art manifests through media like pottery, painting, metalwork, dhokra art, paper-art, weaving and designing of objects like jewelry and toys. Subjects run the gamut from puranic gods, local deities, festivals, fairs, myths, nature and legends.

The food is an unequaled culinary voyage—a delicious variety of distinct flavors influenced by the region. From tandoori, expertly marinated meats, and thalis to the taste delights of vegetarian curries and deep-sea dishes, your palate will thank you for the unique experience.

The best time to visit India is from October to March when the weather is refreshingly cool and rain minimal. India’s main festivals—the Pushkar Fair in Rajasthan, the Republic Day of India and Holi, the festival of colours—take place during this time.

We at Fine Travel make it our goal to arrange memorable and trouble-free holidays. We’ll take care of all the details so you won’t have to worry. Relax. You are in good hands. We have several tours presenting an array of amazing Indian holidays. Choose one and join us for a wealth of extraordinary experiences. Isn’t it time to say, “I’ve enjoyed Incredible India”?

If you’d like to hear more about India, please read Our Holiday in India.