Lumle Holidays
Speak to our specialists
Contact Us Brochures Special Deals β˜…

13 days

Bird Watching Holidays β€’ Wildlife Holidays

From USD 6,604 pp

International flights included

Return flights from New York

Change airport during booking

60% deposit to book

Remaining 40% due three months before departure. Full payment within 90 days.

Next available departure

01 December 2026 FromUSD 8,322pp
View dates & prices
Book Online

13 Days

Duration

1 Country

India

Flights Included

Flights from New York

Bird Watching Holidays

Maximum 20 travellers

Guided Holiday

Expert local guides

ABTOT Bonded

ABTOT 5338 Β· Eligible packages

OVERVIEW

Embark on a spectacular journey through the biodiverse heart of Southern India, where misty highlands, tropical forests, and sacred rivers create the perfect setting for a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife adventure. Designed for nature lovers, birders, and curious explorers, this small-group tour takes you deep into India’s most exceptional but lesser-known wilderness areas.

Track Bengal tigers and Asian elephants in the iconic Nagarhole National Park, drift along the peaceful Kabini River in search of crocs and birdlife, and walk the forest trails of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary to spot Malabar hornbills, Nilgiri langurs, and the elusive Malabar trogon. Spend time in the remote hills of Valparai, home to endangered lion-tailed macaques and a host of Western Ghats endemics, before wrapping up your adventure in the lively city of Bengaluru.

Staying in a handpicked selection of eco-lodges, heritage bungalows, and comfortable resorts, and travelling with expert local naturalists, this journey blends rich wildlife encounters with authentic cultural insights. Ideal for solo travellers and couples alike, the itinerary offers the chance to reconnect with nature in one of the world’s most ecologically important regions.

Short Itinerary (With Flights)

Trip Highlights

Key moments at a glance

  • Explore Nagarhole, Wayanad & Anamalai reserves
  • Spot tigers, elephants, lion-tailed macaques
  • Birdwatching in the Western Ghats
  • Boat safari on the Kabini River
  • Stay in heritage lodges & tea bungalows
  • Guided walks in remote private forests
  • Travel through Karnataka, Kerala & Tamil Nadu
  • Domestic flight from Kochi to Bengaluru

FULL ITINERARY (With Flights)

WHAT'S INCLUDED

  • Roundtrip international flights from the NEW YORK to Bengaluru and return
  • Domestic flight from Kochi to Bengaluru
  • All airport transfers and private transportation throughout the tour
  • 11 nights’ accommodation in handpicked lodges, heritage bungalows, and quality hotels
  • All meals from dinner on Day 2 to breakfast on Day 12 (full board at all wildlife lodges)
  • Daily guided safaris and nature walks in Nagarhole, Wayanad, and Anamalai
  • Boat safari on the Kabini River
  • Expert English-speaking naturalist guides throughout the tour
  • All entrance fees and permits for national parks and wildlife sanctuaries
  • Bottled drinking water during transfers and excursions
  • All government taxes and service charges

Note: Any optional excursions mentioned in the itinerary are not included and are payable separately unless expressly stated as included.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

  • Travel insurance – mandatory and must be arranged prior to departure
  • Indian visa – to be obtained before travel (e-Visa available for UK passport holders)
  • Vaccinations or medical requirements – please consult your GP or travel clinic
  • Tips and gratuities for drivers, guides, and lodge staff
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, drinks, phone calls, and souvenirs
  • Optional activities or excursions not specified in the itinerary
  • Camera fees at national parks (if applicable)
  • Additional meals or snacks outside the full board inclusions

ACCOMMODATION

Throughout your journey in South India, you will stay in a thoughtfully curated selection of heritage bungalows, eco-lodges, and boutique hotels. Each property has been chosen for its charm, comfort, and proximity to exceptional wildlife habitats. From colonial tea estates to forest lodges beside riverbanks, your accommodations offer a seamless blend of nature, authenticity, and warm southern hospitality.

Place Accommodation Nights
Bengaluru (arrival) Hilton Garden Inn – A comfortable airport hotel offering modern amenities and a relaxing stay after your international flight. 1
Nagarhole National Park Kabini River Lodge – A colonial-style lodge by the Kabini River, renowned for its prime location for wildlife safaris. 3
Wayanad (Fringe Ford) Fringe Ford Wilderness Lodge – A remote, rewilded cardamom estate offering immersive walking safaris and rare endemic sightings. 2
Coimbatore The Residency Towers – A stylish, centrally located hotel ideal for a restful stopover between wildlife destinations. 1
Valparai (Anamalai Hills) Briar Tea Bungalows – Elegant plantation bungalows nestled in the hills, offering stunning views and easy access to endemic-rich forests. 3
Bengaluru (departure) Goldfinch Resort – A peaceful resort near the airport, perfect for your final night before departure. 1

Please note: If any of the accommodations listed are unavailable at the time of booking, we will arrange an alternative of similar quality and character to ensure your comfort and experience remain exceptional.

Immersive Wildlife & Nature Encounters in South India

South India offers an extraordinary blend of biodiversity, seasonal spectacle, and breathtaking landscapes. From misty montane forests and lush wetlands to ancient river valleys and spice-scented plantations, this journey takes you deep into some of the subcontinent’s most treasured and lesser-visited wild spaces. Whether you’re tracking tigers in Nagarhole, gazing up at hornbills in the canopy, or listening to the haunting call of a whistling thrush at dawn, every moment brings you closer to the wild heart of the Western Ghats.

Birdlife: South India’s Feathered Jewels

Late winter is one of the best times of year for birdwatching in South India, when resident species begin breeding displays while northern migrants remain in the region. Our route takes us through a mosaic of habitatsβ€”wetlands, deciduous forests, montane grasslands, and cloud forestsβ€”each home to a spectacular array of birds, including many Western Ghats endemics. You can expect to encounter vibrant and rare species such as:

  • Nilgiri whistling thrush – famed for its haunting, fluted song echoing through hill forests
  • Malabar grey hornbill – a fruit-loving forest dweller with powerful flight and sharp calls
  • White-cheeked barbet – often heard before seen, with rhythmic, metallic notes
  • Malabar parakeet – a brilliant green endemic with a bluish tail and bold personality
  • Osprey and grey-headed fish eagle – often spotted during boat safaris
  • Small pratincole – graceful flyers found near riverbanks and reservoir shores

Mammals: From Big Cats to Elusive Endemics

South India is home to a remarkable range of mammals, many found nowhere else in the world. Our expert-guided safaris and forest explorations give you the chance to encounter both the continent’s icons and its hidden gems. Highlights include:

  • Tiger – spotted most reliably in Nagarhole’s open forests and riverbanks
  • Asian elephant – herds are often seen feeding, bathing, or crossing tracks
  • Lion-tailed macaque – one of the world’s rarest primates, with a silver mane and expressive face
  • Nilgiri langur – a sleek black monkey endemic to the Western Ghats
  • Nilgiri tahr – sure-footed mountain goats seen in high-elevation grasslands
  • Asian wild dog (dhole), stripe-necked mongoose, and brown palm civet – among the other possible encounters

Reptiles & Amphibians: Cold-Blooded Highlights

The forests, wetlands, and hills we visit are also home to a fascinating variety of reptiles and amphibians. Keen-eyed travellers may spot:

  • Mugger crocodile – often basking on riverbanks or gliding stealthily through the water
  • Indian python – a non-venomous constrictor resting in the undergrowth or sunning on rocks
  • King cobra – an apex predator of the forest, rarely seen but always awe-inspiring
  • Common Indian toad – frequently seen during evening walks and near forest streams

Butterflies & Insects: Hidden Forest Jewels

While late winter is generally drier and less active for butterflies, we still expect to encounter several striking species fluttering across open paths and forest glades, including:

  • Plain tiger – an elegant, orange-and-black mimic of the monarch butterfly
  • Striped tiger – a close relative, easily spotted in scrubby clearings
  • Common crow – a glossy black butterfly with white-spotted fringes
  • Common emigrant – a pale green flier often seen near water sources

Scenic Landscapes: From Forests to Plantations

This journey through South India’s Western Ghats immerses you in an ever-changing landscape of incredible natural beauty. From the lake-fed deciduous forests of Nagarhole to the humid, mist-covered jungles of Wayanad and the manicured hillsides of Valparai’s tea and coffee estates, the scenery is as rich as the biodiversity it supports. These iconic vistas provide the perfect backdrop for both exploration and relaxation.

Boat Safaris: Wildlife from the Water

A highlight of your time in Nagarhole is the peaceful yet thrilling boat safari on the Kabini River dam. Cruising along this tranquil stretch, you’re likely to witness elephants bathing at the water’s edge, birds of prey circling overhead, and crocs lurking near the banks. It’s an unforgettable way to see wildlife in a natural, undisturbed setting.

Walking: Immersive Trails at Nature’s Pace

Most of our wildlife encounters take place from safari vehicles or boats, but several locationsβ€”especially Fringe Ford and parts of Valparaiβ€”offer opportunities to walk slowly through the forest with expert naturalists. While some trails may be steep, muddy, or uneven, walks are taken at a relaxed pace with plenty of stops for wildlife observation and photography. Walking is not permitted in Nagarhole National Park.

Photography: Capture the Wild

With such a rich mix of scenery, light, and wildlife, this itinerary offers excellent opportunities for nature photography. Nagarhole in particular is ideal for photographing large mammals in the open, while Valparai’s hillscapes and Fringe Ford’s misty trails provide more intimate, atmospheric scenes. Whether using a phone or DSLR, the journey will leave your memory card full and your eyes inspired.

If the listed hotels are unavailable, we will provide alternative accommodation of a similar standard and style.

DATES & PRICES

Choose your preferred departure date and airport to see live prices and availability.

Secure your preferred departure

Popular dates fill quickly, and prices may vary with availability.

Book now, pay in stages

Secure your holiday with a 60% deposit and pay the remaining 40% three months before departure. Full payment is required for departures within 90 days.

Prices are per person, based on at least two people sharing a twin or double room.

Travelling alone? Visit our Solo Traveller page.

All Upcoming Departures (30 available)

Sort by:
Departure Tue 01 Dec 2026
Ends 13 Dec 2026 13 Days
USD 8,322 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 18 Jan 2027
Ends 30 Jan 2027 13 Days
USD 7,001 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 01 Feb 2027
Ends 13 Feb 2027 13 Days
USD 7,001 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Best Price
Departure Mon 01 Mar 2027
Ends 13 Mar 2027 13 Days
USD 6,604 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Thu 01 Apr 2027
Ends 13 Apr 2027 13 Days
USD 7,925 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Wed 01 Dec 2027
Ends 13 Dec 2027 13 Days
USD 7,925 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 03 Jan 2028
Ends 15 Jan 2028 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 07 Feb 2028
Ends 19 Feb 2028 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 06 Mar 2028
Ends 18 Mar 2028 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 03 Apr 2028
Ends 15 Apr 2028 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 01 May 2028
Ends 13 May 2028 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 05 Jun 2028
Ends 17 Jun 2028 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 03 Jul 2028
Ends 15 Jul 2028 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 07 Aug 2028
Ends 19 Aug 2028 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 04 Sep 2028
Ends 16 Sep 2028 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 02 Oct 2028
Ends 14 Oct 2028 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 06 Nov 2028
Ends 18 Nov 2028 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 04 Dec 2028
Ends 16 Dec 2028 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 01 Jan 2029
Ends 13 Jan 2029 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 05 Feb 2029
Ends 17 Feb 2029 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 05 Mar 2029
Ends 17 Mar 2029 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 02 Apr 2029
Ends 14 Apr 2029 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 07 May 2029
Ends 19 May 2029 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 04 Jun 2029
Ends 16 Jun 2029 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 02 Jul 2029
Ends 14 Jul 2029 13 Days
USD 12,681 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 06 Aug 2029
Ends 18 Aug 2029 13 Days
USD 12,681 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 03 Sep 2029
Ends 15 Sep 2029 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 01 Oct 2029
Ends 13 Oct 2029 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 05 Nov 2029
Ends 17 Nov 2029 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now
Departure Mon 03 Dec 2029
Ends 15 Dec 2029 13 Days
USD 8,718 pp
Guaranteed to depart
Book Now

Important Information

  • Prices are per person, based on at least two people sharing a twin or double room, and include all the services listed in What's Included.
  • If you are travelling alone, a single supplement applies. For our dedicated solo departures and special offers, please visit our Solo Traveller options.
  • Secure your holiday with a 60% deposit and pay the remaining 40% three months before departure. Full payment is required for departures within 90 days.
  • You can amend your booking up to 180 days before departure for a fee, subject to our Terms & Conditions.
  • Financial Protection: Eligible non-flight packages and packages with flights departing from and returning to airports outside the UK are protected through ABTOT membership 5338. Packages with flights departing from or returning to a UK airport are protected under ATOL 7375. View protection details.
  • All holidays are subject to operational changes and our full Terms & Conditions.
  • Private departures on any day all around the year can be arranged for this tour. For custom dates and arrangements, email sales@lumle.com or call 1-888-214-4856.

Travel Information

Essential information for your India holiday. Content is tailored to your selected market.

Show information for:

Best time to visit

The best time to visit India is October to March, with cooler temperatures ideal for exploring Rajasthan, Kerala, and the Golden Triangle. April marks the start of summer, while September brings pleasant weather as the monsoon fades. Summer (May–June) can be very hot, and monsoon season (July–August) brings heavy rainfall to many regions.

Flight time

Approximately 15–18 hours to Delhi. Direct flights are available from cities like New York, Newark, Chicago, San Francisco, and Washington D.C. One-stop or two-stop options are also available via Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Zurich, or Helsinki.

Recommended airlines

Direct and one-stop options include Air India, United, Emirates, Etihad, and Finnair. Our packages include one-stop flights, with direct and preferred airline options available at an extra cost.

Visa & entry requirements

US citizens require a tourist visa to enter India, which must be obtained before travel via e-Visa or regular application. Entry requirements are subject to change, so travellers should check with the Indian Embassy or official sources before departure. It is your responsibility to check and meet entry requirements before travel.

Capital

Delhi

Time difference

GMT +5 Β½ hours (India is 10 hours 30 minutes ahead of New York during standard time and 9 hours 30 minutes ahead during daylight saving time)

India Travel FAQs

Get answers to common questions about traveling in India

Before you go

Essential information to help you prepare for your India holiday.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Got questions? We've got answers.

Browse by topic

Find FAQs by category to quickly get the information you need.

Popular questions

Quick answers to the questions we’re asked most often.

View all FAQs β†’

All FAQs

Browse all questions and answers by category.

Booking your holiday 1
How much deposit do I need to pay?

Secure your holiday with a 60% deposit and pay the remaining 40% three months before departure. Full payment is required for departures within 90 days.

Payments 1
When is my final balance due?

Secure your holiday with a 60% deposit and pay the remaining 40% three months before departure. Full payment is required for departures within 90 days.

Flights & travel 2
Are international flights included?

Select a package with flights to include the flights shown in your chosen departure. Routes, baggage allowances and inclusions depend on the itinerary and departure airport; check your booking details before confirming.

Can I arrange my own flights (Land Only)?

Yes. If you prefer to arrange your own international flights, please contact our travel specialists and we will be delighted to provide a tailor-made land-only quote for your travel dates.

Passports & visas 1
Do you need a visa?

You need a visa to travel to India unless you are an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder. India has several visa categories. Make sure you get the right visa for the purpose and duration of your travel. Penalties for having the wrong visa can include refusal of entry or deportation.

For more accurate and up-to-date visa information on India please visit https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

Before you travel 4
What vaccinations do I need for India?

Courses or boosters usually advised: Diphtheria; Hepatitis A; Tetanus; Typhoid. Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis B; Rabies. Selectively advised vaccines – only for those individuals at highest risk: Cholera; Japanese Encephalitis.

For more accurate and up to date information please visit:

https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/destinations/asia-east/india#:~:text=Courses%20or%20boosters%20usually%20advised,risk%3A%20Cholera%3B%20Japanese%20Encephalitis.

https://healthclinics.superdrug.com/travel-vaccinations/india/

Do I need any vaccinations ahead of travel?

Infact, vaccination requirements vary for one country to another. Although we are able to give you advice, we are not medical professionals and are not able to give you specific advice on medical matters. We strongly recommend that you consult with your GP or travel clinic and seek professional advice before you travel. It may be helpful, if you take a copy of your holiday itinerary with you during your appointment. For more details please visit https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-of-health

Courses or boosters usually advised: Diphtheria; Hepatitis A; Tetanus; Typhoid. Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis B; Rabies. Selectively advised vaccines – only for those individuals at highest risk: Cholera; Japanese Encephalitis.

For more accurate and up to date information please visit:

https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/destinations/asia-east/india#:~:text=Courses%20or%20boosters%20usually%20advised,risk%3A%20Cholera%3B%20Japanese%20Encephalitis

https://healthclinics.superdrug.com/travel-vaccinations/india/

When will I receive my travel documents?

Your comprehensive travel pack, including e-tickets, final day-by-day itinerary, hotel contact details, and practical destination advice, will be emailed to you approximately 2 to 3 weeks before you travel.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all our holidays. You must ensure your policy covers all activities you plan to undertake, as well as medical emergencies, repatriation, luggage, and trip cancellation.

On your holiday 24
Can I use my cellphone in India?

You can purchase a SIM card in India, but we suggest you check with your cellular provider to know what your options are. You might be able to get an affordable roaming plan.

How long does it take to fly to India from the UK?

With one stopover (of approximately up to 6 hours) the total duration of the flight is approximately 14 hours whereas direct flight takes around 9 hours.

How much should I tip in India?

It is usual to tip the waiters, porters, guides, and drivers. Tips are not included in the bills of hotels, transport companies, or any other suppliers. At hotels and restaurants, about 10% of the bill total is usually acceptable as a tip. For establishments that have a service tax or charge included in the bill, a separate tip may not be required.

Drivers/Guides: Rs. 1000 per full day
Porters: Rs. 100 per piece of luggage
Reps at Airports: Rs. 200 per service
Helper in vehicle: Rs. 200 per day

How welcoming is India to LGBTQ travellers?

The majority of the country is safe for LGBTQ travelers and families. The country does hold somewhat conservative values, so public displays of affection between gay or straight couples are not common.

Is India a family-friendly destination?

India offers many family-oriented activities including visits to forts and palaces, tiger and leopard safaris, beaches, and museums. We can create a custom itinerary based on your family’s interests.

Is Wi-Fi readily available?

Internet access is good in most major areas of India. Wi-Fi is available at most restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels, and malls. However, poor internet service does exist in remote areas and villages in India. Most hotels charge for Wi-Fi services.

What are the best ways to travel around in India?

The best way to cover the places is to get a private driver for intercity transfer and sightseeing, you may opt for internal flights for longer trips. For a different experience, you may consider embarking on a train journey for a taste of the railway network in India.

What are the main annual festivals or events held?

India has many festivals and events, but two of the biggest celebrations are Dussehra, Diwali and Holi. Dussehra and Diwali is the Hindu Festival of Lights celebrated annually for five days in either October or November. Holi is the Hindu Festival of Colours, celebrated annually in March after the full moon.

What are the public bathroom facilities like in India?

There are two types of toilets in India:

1) Western sit-down toilets
2) Asian squat toilets. Squat toilets are the most common in public bathrooms. Some public bathrooms will not provide toilet paper or soap, so we recommend you bring your tissues and hand sanitizer.

What can I experience in India?

India is a big and diverse country so what you experience depends on what part of the country you are covering. One of the most popular and landmark sights is the Taj Mahal. Located in the famous India’s Golden Triangle, Agra’s world-renowned mausoleum is an epic sight during sunrise. Close to Agra, you can also embark on a jungle safari in Ranthambore National Park or explore the colourful bazaars of Jaipur. Down in the South backwaters of Kerala may appeal to you for a tranquil experience.

What food and drink should I try in India?

India is a diverse country, every region and culture is blessed with their unique cuisine so what you eat and drink will vary depending on where you visit. But, there are a few things that you will find everywhere no matter where you go. For example, thali are traditional meals made of different curries and lentils with traditional accompaniments served in small bowls and arranged attractively on a large tray. A few of the dishes may vary as per the region. India is heaven for street food lovers as you can find a huge range everywhere from big cities to small villages which you may consider while having a stroll through the streets. Another sight you cannot miss is small tea stalls, chaiwallahs selling masala milk tea. For more in-depth knowledge why not jump into culinary experience?

What is the currency used in India?

The currency used throughout the country is the Indian rupee. Most vendors will also accept Mastercard or Visa. ATMs are commonplace in India.

What language is spoken in India?

The official language is Hindi which is spoken by about 30% of the population, but English is widely spoken in metro cities and tourist areas. In addition, there are more than 100 other regional languages and dialects, including Punjabi, Bengali, Gujarati, and Oriya, which are widely used in the north, and Tamil and Telugu, which are common in the south. Other regional languages are Marathi, Kannada, and Malayalam. The northern Muslim population largely speaks Urdu.

What should I wear when visiting temples and mosques in India?

During your visit to holy places in India, you should wear clothes that cover your head, knees, and shoulders.

What's India’s time zone?

The time zone in India is GMT +5:30.

Where can I find the latest travel advice for India?

For the latest travel advice for India, including entry requirements, health information, and the safety and security situation, please refer to the https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/india

Where can I see tigers in India?

In India, the best place to spot tigers is Central India, make your way to Kanha, Satpura, Pench, and Tadoba national parks. Scattered across the central states of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Chhattisgarh, they’re home to the country’s greatest concentration of Bengal tigers. Additionally, you will likely see wildlife, like sloth bears, leopards, deer, and elephants, who all roam freely through the protected jungles. However, if you have Rajasthan in your itinerary, you may include Ranthambore National Park, rather than travel so far.

Where can I stay in India?

From lavish palaces to simple homestays, the type of accommodation in India depends on where you want to stay as India has a lot to offer meeting the budget of every kind. The big cities offer a huge range of accommodation ranging from five-star hotels and boutique guesthouses. Outside the cities, you may want to spend a night in a heritage property a remote lodge, or a safari camp in the middle of the jungle. During your exploration of the Golden Triangle, you can also choose to stay in a converted fort, a regal palace, or a historic family mansion known as a haveli. Further, in South India, you can immerse yourself into rural life with a homestay, known as Theravada, or a rice barge-cum-houseboat that glides along the sleepy backwaters. Our team of experts will be delighted to find you the accommodation that meets your requirements so come and explore with us!

Where should I go in India?

If it is your first time in India, we recommend visiting the famous Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Also, you can include Ranthambore National Park to explore the wildlife famous for tigers.

On a second visit, you might explore the Southern part of India-Tamil Nadu, where colorful temples strike your eyes. Here, you can visit the 49 shines of Ranganathaswamy Temple in Trichy, involved with local families during a cooking class in Pondicherry, and then finish your holiday on the backwaters of Kerala.

When is the best time to go?

India is a giant country has various climatic regions, what that means the best time to travel will depend on which part of India you are visiting? Generally, India’s weather is divided into three seasons – summer, winter and the monsoon. Typically, winter (November to February) is the preferred and considered as best time for many travellers to visit. The Himalayas and hill stations are best explored during the summer season (March to May). The monsoon season (June to August) brings rain. Although, this season does not stop you from travelling to India, you should be prepared to encounter rain and warm.

How can I get there?

India has very good flight connects from United Kingdom. There are numerous direct flights to India from the UK, although their frequency and the duration of the flight will depend on which of the country’s airports you are planning to fly into. There are direct flights from London to cities like Delhi and Mumbai serviced by Vistara, Virgin, Air India, and British Airways. Non-direct flights from the UK to other popular Indian cities, like Goa, Chennai, and Hyderabad are also available with a stopover in Delhi or Mumbai. Flight times vary between eight-and-a-half hours and 14 hours depending on which part of India you are visiting.

What is the local currency and what currency should I take?

The Indian rupee is the local currency. It’s usually best to exchange your currency once you arrive in India. Euros, sterling and US dollars are all easy to change for rupees at local banks and exchange bureaus. The most of major credit and debit cards are widely accepted at the ATMs and shops, hotels and restaurants in tourist areas.

What is there to see and do?

Magical India has lots to offer to visitors. India’s attractions are varied and diverse, from its famous monuments and historical sites like the Taj Mahal, Delhi’s Red Fort, Mysore’s Maharaja’s Palace and the Jaisalmer Fort, to the stunning beaches in Goa and the wildlife reserves like Ranthambore where you can spot tigers and many other exotic creatures. The northern region of India where you can explore hill stations and enjoy the Himalayas whereas in the southern regions you can enjoy the sunshine on glorious beaches. Please visit β€œPlaces to visit India” and β€œHighlights of India” section in our website to explore more about India attractions.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?

No. The tap water is not considered as safe drinking water in India. It’s strongly recommended that you stick to bottled mineral water.

Changes & cancellations 2
What happens if I need to change my booking?

We understand plans change. You can amend your booking up to a certain period before departure. Amendment fees may apply depending on the changes and airline ticket conditions. Please contact our team as soon as possible.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellations must be made in writing. Cancellation charges apply and increase the closer it gets to the departure date. Please refer to our full Terms & Conditions for the specific cancellation fee scale.

After your holiday 1
How can I contact Lumle after my holiday?

For questions or feedback after your holiday, contact our team, email sales@lumle.com or call 1-888-214-4856.

Your Financial Protection

Book with Confidence

Eligible non-flight packages and packages with flights departing from and returning to airports outside the UK are protected through ABTOT membership 5338. Packages with flights departing from or returning to a UK airport are protected under ATOL 7375.

ATOL Protected

ATOL Protected

ATOL 7375 Β· Eligible UK-flight packages

ABTOT Bonded

ABTOT Bonded

ABTOT 5338 Β· Eligible packages

Allied Member of USTOA

Allied Member of USTOA

United States Tour Operators Association

Reviews

What our travellers say

4.8/5

Based on verified independent customer reviews on Trustpilot.

Brochure

Explore our brochure

Discover our latest holidays, bespoke journeys, and travel inspiration.

Planning your holiday?

Speak to our team or send us your tailor-made requirements.

1-888-214-4856
Mon-Fri 09:00 - 18:00 (GMT)

Ready to experience India?

Explore all our handpicked India holidays or speak to our team to create a completely bespoke journey around you.

Need some help? Call 1-888-214-4856

Your Recently Viewed

Your recently viewed holidays will appear here as you browse.