India Holidays

This is the best adrenaline fix in Rishikesh. Navigating the Grade III and IV rapids of the Ganges is thrilling and bone-chillingly cold. Whether you are a pro or a beginner, the river against the Himalayan backdrop is truly unforgettable.

Paddle through the hidden water channels of Varkala for a peaceful, upper-body workout. While most tourists stick to the cliffs and surf, kayaking the mangroves reveals a silent world of kingfishers and local fishermen. It is raw, sensory, and a great way to escape the crowds.

Float over the stunning landscapes of Rajasthan or Goa in a hot air balloon. This safari offers a serene, bird's-eye view of wildlife, ancient forts, and rural villages. It is a peaceful yet exhilarating experience that provides the best photography opportunities in the entire country.

Beat the heat and the crowds! Pedaling through the “White City” at dawn is the most romantic way to see Udaipur. Glide past quiet lakeside palaces and head into the rugged Aravalli hills for a fresh perspective and a delicious local breakfast.

Witnessing the sun crest over the Ganges is a spiritual necessity in Varanasi. This rowing boat tour takes you past the burning ghats and ancient temples as pilgrims perform morning ablutions. You get a powerful glimpse into the cycle of life and death.

In Goa, you can enjoy watersports, such as parasailing, jet skiing, flyboarding, and windsurfing. For group fun, you can try banana boat rides at Baga and Calangute, or head to Grand Island for scuba diving and snorkelling in the Arabian Sea.

You can challenge yourself to trek the Himalayan peaks of Ladakh or the green, tea-covered hills of Kerala. Whether you want epic mountain views or peaceful forest walks, India’s trails allow you to see the country’s raw beauty up close.

Located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, these 30 UNESCO-listed caves are hidden within a steep horseshoe-shaped cliff. You will find 2,000-year-old Buddhist murals and rock-cut temples that influenced art as far as Java. It is a breathtaking, ancient spiritual masterpiece.

Located just 11 km from Jaipur, this hilltop fort blends pink sandstone and white marble. See its four courtyards, secret tunnels to Jaigarh, and the dazzling Sheesh Mahal. Attend the evening light show, which brings the fort’s royal history to life.

Towering over Jodhpur, this 15th-century fortress is a masterpiece of red sandstone. You can explore seven legendary gates, the “Dark Knight Rises” backdrop, and lavish mirror palaces. Don’t miss the zip-line over the battlements for a real adrenaline kick!

Discover the opulent merchant mansions of Tamil Nadu’s Chettinad region. These palatial homes mix Burmese teak, Italian marble, and Belgian glass into a unique architectural marvel. Stay in restored heritage hotels to experience authentic hospitality and world-famous spicy cuisine.

This poignant memorial in Amritsar honours those lost in the 1919 massacre. See the Wall of Martyrs that is still scarred by bullet holes and the Martyr’s Well. The eternal Amar Jyoti flame and moving galleries let you emotionally experience India's freedom struggle.

Step back 30,000 years to see some of the world’s oldest artworks in Bhopal. A UNESCO site, these rock shelters feature ancient paintings of hunts and battles, offering a rare, up-close look at how India’s earliest humans lived and survived.

An archaeological site in Gujarat, Dholavira is built in the middle of a harsh desert and shows off the genius of the Indus Valley people. It looks like a high-tech city, but 5,000 years old featuring huge water reservoirs and stone signboards.

A city and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, Hampi offers an endless landscape of giant boulders and beautifully carved temples belonging to a forgotten empire. These atmospheric ruins feel like an open-air museum where history truly comes alive.

Known as India’s Great Wall, this 36km-long fortification is in Rajasthan. The fort was designed to be totally impenetrable, protecting hundreds of ancient temples and palaces within its thick and winding walls.

This is the fort where Queen Lakshmibai bravely stood her ground during India’s fight for freedom. You can still see the ancient cannons used during the famous rebellion against British rule.

Lohri falls on 13 January every year and celebrates the winter harvest. Families gather around bonfires to offer sweets and grains to the flames. The festival becomes lively as people dance to folk music to thank nature for its seasonal bounty.

This patriotic day is celebrated on 26 January and honours India’s Constitution. The capital, New Delhi, hosts a magnificent parade showcasing military strength and diverse cultural floats. The President unfurls the Indian flag at Kartavya Path.

It is the iconic festival of India which usually falls in the month of March. Known as the “Festival of Colours,” people throw gulal (powdered colours) and water on each other, turning streets colourful.

Falling in late May in 2026, this Islamic festival is popularly called Bakrid. It honours the spirit of sacrifice. Families gather for special prayers, share festive meals, and distribute food to the needy people.

The country celebrates this event on 15th August. It commemorates its freedom from British rule in 1947. While the Prime Minister hoists the Indian Flag at Red Fort in Delhi, people also celebrate with flag-hoisting ceremonies and patriotic songs. 

It is a ten-day festival which falls between August and September. It is Kerala’s harvest festival, celebrating the homecoming of King Mahabali. The festival features colorful flower carpets, thrilling boat races, and grand feasts.

On 2nd October, the country honours the birth of Mahatma Gandhi, the “Father of the Nation.” It is a national holiday that focuses on community service and honouring the legacy of non-violence.

Between 11 to 20 October, you can celebrate nine nights dedicated to Goddess Durga. In Gujarat, you can join thousands of energetic Garba and Dandiya circles. Similarly, Kolkata transforms into a stunning open-air art gallery of festive pandals.

Dussehra is on 20 October, 2026. Indians celebrate good over evil as towering effigies of the demon Ravana are set ablaze across the country.

Falling in September, this festival honours the elephant-headed God, Lord Ganesha. This ten-day celebration, especially in Mumbai, offers colourful street processions with music and dance, while beautiful clay idols are immersed in the sea with chanting.

India’s "Festival of Lights" illuminates the country with millions of flickering oil lamps and fireworks. Falling on 8 November 2026, the festival transforms cities like Varanasi and Jaipur with glowing streets, intricate rangoli art, and a magical festive atmosphere.

Taking place between 17 November and 24 November, you can witness a unique desert spectacle in Rajasthan. Thousands of camels gather for trading and races, alongside fun events like mustache competitions and vibrant folk music under the desert sun.

Running between 1–10 December, this event reflects on the heritage of 17 Naga tribes. Expect powerful drum beats, traditional archery, and vibrant dances set against the lush hills of Kisama Heritage Village.

25 December as Christmas Day is celebrated across India with tree decorations, midnight masses, and festive cakes. It is a warm, celebratory occasion for people of all faiths.

The night of 31 December remains full of energy with glitzy parties and fireworks. Metro cities like Mumbai and Delhi buzz with celebrity concerts and rooftop bashes. In Kochi, people celebrate with "Pappanji" burning tradition.

Varanasi’s 84 sacred ghats form a 6.5 km riverfront. Attend the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh, find peace at Assi Ghat during Subah-e-Banaras, or observe the profound cremation rituals at Manikarnika. It is the spiritual heart of India.

Rishikesh is known as “Yoga Capital of the World.” Watch soul-stirring Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, explore the iconic Beatles Ashram, or cross the famous Lakshman Jhula suspension bridge. Enjoy world-class meditation experiences to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.

Located just 10 km from Puri, Odisha, Raghurajpur has been recognised by UNESCO as a heritage crafts village. It offers a firsthand look into India’s authentic, centuries-old craft traditions and is famous for its Pattachitra paintings and palm-leaf engravings.

Step into the narrow, buzzing lanes of Chandni Chowk to experience the soulful heart of Mughal history. It is a crowded market offering an old-world charm, delicious street food, and the scent of traditional spices.

It is a spiritual and devotional place in Bihar where people from all over the world visit. Sit by the sacred tree where the Buddha found enlightenment.

Long before modern schools, Nalanda was a global centre for learning and wisdom in Bihar. Exploring its haunting red-brick ruins is a powerful reminder of India’s intellectual past, where thousands of students and monks once gathered to share big ideas. 

Watch a Bollywood movie in this famous, pink palace theatre in Jaipur. It is legendary for its grand Art Deco style and the local crowd that cheers and whistles, making every show feel like a party.

Founded by Bollywood royalty, Prithviraj Kapoor, this intimate venue in Mumbai is the heart of India’s performing arts. Catching an experimental play here is a must, especially followed by a famous Irish coffee at their legendary open-air café.

Experience a spirited Rajasthani village fair at this cultural resort in Jaipur. From camel rides to puppet shows to authentic folk dances and traditional sit-down feasts. It is a place to enjoy the lively, soul-stirring celebration of India’s rich rural heritage.

It is the ultimate spot for high-energy fun in Mumbai. Experience thrilling slides and huge wave pools, offering a splash-filled escape from the city’s bustling heat and humidity.

Perched on the 34th floor of the Four Seasons in Mumbai, this open-air rooftop bar in Mumbai provides stunning panoramic views of the city skyline and the sea. It is the best destination for sunset cocktails and high-end global beats.

In New Delhi, this artisanal speakeasy is a cocktail lover’s dream. With a sophisticated atmosphere and inventive craft drinks, it is the golden standard for a classy night out in the capital.