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Taj Mahal in sunset light, Agra, India

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On an India tour, you'll experience the colorful festivals, diverse cultures and spiritual beliefs, aromatic spices, gorgeous architecture, and breathtaking landscapes that make India a fascinating cultural and natural destination. Among the best places to visit in India are the magnificent Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh during a sunset visit. Rajasthan, the Land of Kings, is home to magnificent forts and palaces, including those at Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Amber, and Udaipur. Visit Madhya Pradesh's Bandhavgarh, Kanha, Ranthambhore, and Pench National Parks to see tigers and leopards in their natural habitat. Stay at a rainforest resort, take a 4x4 expedition with a naturalist and a forest ranger. Unwind on one of the magnificent beaches in Goa or Lakshadweep, while relaxing in our top Indian hotels. Contact us today for more information on our best India tours and cruises.
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India River Cruises

India River Cruises

Trip Name From Days Summary
Cruise & Rail: The Sacred Ganges & The Maharajas' Express $22,999 16 Discover Hindu temples, vivid flower marketplaces, towns lining the Ganges River, and a wellness program on a 16-day boat and rail tour of India's culture.
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The Hooghly $2,655 10 Embark on a 10-day river cruise aboard the RV Kalaw Pandaw exploring Bengal’s vibrant culture and heritage aboard RV Kalaw Pandaw. Begin in Kolkata, visiting Dalhousie Square and Victoria Memorial. Cruise through villages, battlefields, and temples, including Kalna’s terracotta temples, Matiari’s brass artisans, and Mayapur’s grandeur.
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The Brahmaputra $3,998 8 Embark on an 8-day Brahmaputra River cruise aboard RV Kindat Pandaw, exploring India’s remote Assam region. Visit local villages, discover the wildlife of Kaziranga and Nameri National Parks, and witness ancient rock carvings at Bamuni Hills. This immersive journey connects you to the landscapes, traditions, and stories of northeastern India.
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The All Ganges $9,240 15 Sail on this 15-day All Ganges River cruise from Kolkata to Varanasi aboard RV Kalaw Pandaw. Explore India's historical and cultural treasures as you visit iconic landmarks like the Danish colony of Serampore, the French territory of Chandernagore, the terracotta temples of Kalna, and the ISKCON headquarters in Mayapur.
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The All Ganges $11,088 15 On this 15-day journey along the Ganges River from Varanasi to Kolkata, explore India's rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and picturesque landscapes aboard RV Kalaw Pandaw. Visit the headquarters of ISKCON in Mayapur, explore the terracotta temples of Kalna, and enjoy the French colonial charm of Chandenagore.
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India Travel Guide

Types of India Tour Packages

India offers a rich diversity of landscapes, cultures, and experiences, and Adventure Life has crafted several India tour styles so you can choose the journey that best fits your interests. Below are the main types of India travel packages and tours, plus what you can expect in each.

Cultural & Heritage India Tours

  • Walk through time in cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra, exploring imposing forts, palaces, temples, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Key highlights include the Taj Mahal, the Red Fort, Amber Fort in Jaipur, and the architectural marvels of Rajasthan.
  • Be immersed in India’s spiritual traditions: visit holy cities like Varanasi, witness daily rituals on the ghats of the Ganges, take early morning boat rides, or explore colonial-era cities and historic monuments.
  • Experience regional heritage through traditional arts, dance, music, cooking, and festivals. For example, in Kerala, your India tour can include cooking classes, seeing Kathakali performances, or exploring classic temples and colonial structures. 

Adventure & Wildlife India Tours

  • Jungle safaris in India’s national parks are a major draw: Ranthambore, Kaziranga, Bandhavgarh, Kanha, Pench, among others. See tigers, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and assorted bird life in their natural habitats.
  • Trekking and nature‑based adventures in southern India: India tours in the south of the country can let you explore rainforests in Wayanad, travel through tea and spice plantations, or do nature walks and wildlife lodge stays in remote jungle landscapes.
  • Safari options also include jeep rides, boat or coracle cruises along rivers, and seasonal wildlife viewing depending on region. 

Luxury & Wellness India Tour Packages

  • Upscale lodging is part of many India tour itineraries: boutique hotels, heritage properties, tranquil resorts often in scenic or culturally rich settings.
  • Wellness and relaxation are woven into several journeys: stay in spa retreats, enjoy houseboat stays in Kerala backwaters, and unwind amid natural beauty away from the bustle.

River & Sea Cruises

  • River cruises along sacred waterways such as the Ganges and the Brahmaputra offer a different perspective than other India trips: witnessing life along riverbanks, historic towns, temples, colonial relics, local villages, and daily rituals.
  • Cruises in Kerala’s backwaters aboard houseboats (kettuvallams) navigate canals, lagoons, and lakes, bringing you into the heart of rural life and tranquil landscapes.
  • Some packages combine boat or ship travel with rail or land segments, for example “Cruise & Rail” itineraries that cross multiple regions as well as rivers. 

India at a Glance

Location: India is located in South Asia, with the Arabian Sea to its west and the Bay of Bengal to its east. It's bordered by Pakistan to the north and Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Burma to the east.

Capital: The city of New Delhi is India's capital.

Population: India has the world's second-largest population, with about 1.3 billion people after China.

Language:  India has 22 official languages, though Hindi is spoken by about 40% of all Indians as their first language.

Land Area: India covers 3.287 million km², making it the seventh-largest country in the world by land area.

Religion: India is also home to several major religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism.

Currency: The Indian rupee is the country's currency. For instance, one rupee is equal to 75 Indian rupees.

Current President: Ram Nath Kovind

 

Discover India: From North to South, East to West

North India:

On an India tour, explore the heart of the country through its rich history and architectural grandeur. Visit Delhi, the lively capital brimming with Mughal heritage and street food delights; Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World; and Rajasthan, the Land of Kings, filled with majestic forts, palaces, and vibrant cities like Jaipur and Udaipur. Seek spiritual serenity in Varanasi, one of Hinduism’s holiest cities, where life unfolds along the sacred Ganges River.

South India: 

Discover tranquil backwaters, lush landscapes, and ancient temple towns through South India tours. Glide along Kerala’s palm-fringed canals aboard a houseboat, or relax on its idyllic beaches. In Tamil Nadu, marvel at centuries-old temples such as Madurai’s Meenakshi Temple and Mahabalipuram’s Shore Temple. The cultural hub of Chennai hosts world-class music and dance festivals, while South India’s spice plantations and coffee estates offer a sensory escape.

East India:  

Immerse yourself on an India tour of Kolkata, a city of colonial architecture, literature, and art. Venture into the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, for a chance to spot Bengal tigers and diverse wildlife amid an intricate network of waterways.

West India: 

From the cosmopolitan charm of Mumbai, India’s financial and cultural capital, to the golden beaches of Goa, the west is where modern energy meets laid-back coastal life. Experience heritage architecture, bustling markets, lively nightlife, and the cinematic allure of Bollywood through one of our featured India tour packages.

Himalayas & Adventure: 

Head north to the Himalayas for an India tour that involves rugged beauty and spiritual renewal. Trek across the high passes of Ladakh, visit monasteries perched on cliffs in Himachal Pradesh, or explore Sikkim’s serene landscapes and Buddhist retreats. These regions offer both adrenaline-filled adventures and peaceful mountain escapes.

What to Expect on India Tours & River Cruises

Experience India in comfort and style as you journey through its storied rivers and cultural heartlands. Our India tours and cruises blend luxury accommodations, authentic cuisine, and expertly guided excursions to showcase the country’s vibrant traditions and timeless beauty.

Accommodations

These India tour packages offer stays in handpicked hotels, boutique resorts, or elegant cruise cabins designed for comfort after each day of exploration. Onboard river cruises along the Ganges or Brahmaputra, guests enjoy spacious staterooms with panoramic views, modern amenities, and personalized service. On land, accommodations range from heritage palaces in Rajasthan to serene retreats in Kerala and modern city hotels in Delhi or Kolkata.

Culinary Experiences

Savor India’s rich culinary diversity through thoughtfully curated meals. Each dining experience on one of these India tours highlights regional specialties, from aromatic curries of North India to coastal flavors of the South. Onboard chefs prepare fresh, locally sourced dishes, while on land excursions, guests can sample authentic street food, enjoy traditional thali meals, or join cooking demonstrations that reveal the art of Indian spices.

Guided Excursions & Cultural Experiences

Every itinerary of these India tour packages is designed to connect travelers with the country’s soul. Join expert local guides as you explore Varanasi’s sacred ghats, Kolkata’s colonial landmarks, or the wildlife-rich Kaziranga National Park. Visit historic temples, vibrant bazaars, and rural villages to experience India’s deep-rooted spirituality and craftsmanship. Optional excursions may include yoga sessions at sunrise, rickshaw rides through old city lanes, and visits to local artisans.

Travel Support & Itinerary Planning

From pre-departure assistance to on-the-ground coordination, every detail of your journey is handled with care. Our trip planners craft personalized itineraries that balance exploration and relaxation. They ensure seamless transfers, expert guides, and dedicated support throughout any of your trips to India. Whether it’s an extended India tour by land or a river cruise through the heartlands, you can travel confidently knowing every moment has been thoughtfully planned.

India Travel FAQs

Do I need a visa to travel to India?

A valid passport and visa are required for all foreigners purchasing one of these India tour packages. Most countries must apply for a visa or an e-visa in advance. See the official travel requirements sites for US citizens, Canadians, and UK citizens. To enter India, the passport must be valid for six months. You must have the correct visa for your intended activity in India. Incorrect visas may result in denial of entry.

Applicants from eligible countries/territories may apply online for an e-Tourist visa at least four days before the date of arrival.

The e-Tourist visa allows for a continuous stay of 90 days. 

Do I need vaccinations for India?

India has a Yellow Fever travel requirement for citizens traveling from countries where yellow fever is prevalent. These citizens must obtain a Yellow Fever Vaccination Card and present it upon arrival for their India tour.

What is the best month to go to India?

The best time to enjoy one of these India tour packages is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. These months offer clear skies and comfortable temperatures for exploring cities, national parks, and river cruise routes.

How much does an India tour cost?

India Tours start at around USD $2,400 for a 7-day itinerary and can reach USD $7,000 or more for extended or luxury India River Cruises and multi-region adventures. Prices vary based on duration, accommodation, and included excursions.

What is the best way to tour India?

The best way to explore the country is through a mix of guided India tours by land and river cruises. This combination lets travelers experience India’s cultural highlights, wildlife safaris, and regional cuisine, with expert guides and seamless travel support.

How many days are enough to visit India?

Plan 7–10 days for a focused itinerary like the Golden Triangle (Delhi–Agra–Jaipur), or 14–16 days for a more immersive India Tour that includes Kerala, Varanasi, or a scenic river cruise along the Ganges or Brahmaputra.

What is the best first-time trip to India?

For first-time visitors, the Golden Triangle India Tour is the ideal introduction to Travel in India. It features Delhi’s historic sites, Agra’s iconic Taj Mahal, and Jaipur’s palaces. Many travelers extend their India trips with Kerala’s backwaters or Varanasi’s spiritual ghats for a richer experience.

What is India's Golden Triangle? 

India's Golden Triangle is a captivating journey that encompasses the three iconic cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, forming a triangular route on the map and revealing the rich tapestry of India's history, culture, and architectural wonders. 

Delhi: Marvel at Delhi's Red Fort and Qutub Minar, delve into the cultural tapestry of Old Delhi, and explore Humayun's Tomb and the Lotus Temple. 

Agra: Witness the ethereal beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra, visit the grand Agra Fort, and immerse yourself in local culture.

Jaipur: In Jaipur, ascend the majestic Amber Fort, explore the opulent City Palace, and admire the intricate Hawa Mahal.

Along the way, experience vibrant markets, savor Mughlai cuisine, and engage with the warm hospitality of the locals. The Golden Triangle unveils the essence of India in a truly captivating journey. Choose one of the India tours in small groups to allow yourself to fully immerse in the wonders of this iconic region.

Is it safe to visit India in 2025?

Yes, it is generally safe to travel to India, but as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions, such as securing your belongings, respecting local customs, and using reputable transportation options. Major India tourist areas are well-prepared for visitors, and with proper planning, you can enjoy a safe and enriching experience in this diverse and vibrant country.

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