7 Reasons to Travel to India with Llama Travel

1. Build the holiday you want

Everyone has different priorities for their holiday to India, and at Llama Travel, we let you mix and match extensions, excursions and accommodation to create the holiday you want. Our base programme, Taj, Tigers and Temples of India covers some of the country’s must-see attractions. You can then add extensions to see even more. Take the scenic Toy Train ride up to Shimla, the former summer capital of British India in the foothills of the Himalayas. Visit Amritsar’s stunning Golden Temple, or head deeper into Rajasthan to explore Jodhpur and Udaipur. You can also include Varanasi, where sacred ceremonies take place on the River Ganges. You can also end your trip by unwinding on the sandy beaches of South Goa, a perfect way to finish an exciting and adventurous trip around India.

 Diwali Oil Lamps Preparation, Rajasthan

2. Small Groups

At Llama Travel, our groups are a maximum of 18 people, which makes it easier to get around, whether you’re taking a rickshaw ride through the narrow streets of Old Delhi, visiting the Taj Mahal in Agra, or joining the evening rituals on the ghats of Varanasi. In a country as busy and vibrant as India, travelling in a smaller group helps you make the most of your time and enjoy each experience without feeling rushed. It also gives you more opportunities to interact with your guide, ask questions, and get a better understanding of India’s culture, history and traditions.

River Ganges, Varanasi

3. Experience the highlights of India

India has so much to offer, but the main highlights of any trip often centre on the famous Golden Triangle which includes cities like Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. To this classic route, we also include Ranthambore National Park, giving you the chance to spot the Royal Bengal tiger. Together, these experiences provide a perfect introduction to India’s culture, history and wildlife.

In Delhi, our full-day Old Delhi city tour takes you to Humayun’s Tomb, the Gandhi Memorial and Qutub Minar, with a rickshaw ride through the narrow streets of Chandni Chowk and lunch in a local restaurant. From here, travel to Agra to see the Taj Mahal at sunrise, a breathtaking monument built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz. Continue to Ranthambore National Park for morning game drives in jeeps, where guides help you look for leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, and hyenas, but the main attraction is undoubtedly the Royal Bengal Tiger.  End your journey in Jaipur, the Pink City, where highlights include the City Palace, a grand complex of courtyards, gardens and museums, where the royal family still resides, and the hilltop Amber Palace, one of Rajasthan’s most impressive sights.

Royal Bengal Tiger, Ranthambore National Park

4. Stay in Comfortable Hotels

India is amazing, but can be overwhelming, so having a comfortable base to retreat to is essential. At Llama Travel, we offer both standard and superior hotel options, giving you the flexibility to choose what suits you best. Our standard hotels are comfortable and offer a calm retreat away from the bustle. Superior hotels offer a bit extra, and are often based in historic buildings, allowing you to experience India’s rich culture from the comfort of your hotel.

Hotel Taj Amer, Jaipur

5. Train rides for an authentic experience

Train journeys are one of the best ways to experience India. They’re not only practical but also offer a glimpse into local life as you travel across the country.  All itineraries include a train journey to Ranthambore, giving an authentic and memorable experience. Then perhaps, take the historic narrow-gauge Toy Train to Shimla, built to transport the British rulers of India to the summer capital, when the heat and rains of the plains got too much. This UNESCO World Heritage railway climbs over 1,500 metres through mountains, crossing more than 800 bridges and passing through 100 tunnels on its 60-mile route. The carriages are simple, but the scenery is unforgettable.

Toy Train, Shimla

6. Add a relaxing stay in Goa

After exploring the Taj Mahal in Agra, wandering the busy streets of Old Delhi, and spotting Royal Bengal tigers in Ranthambore, you can end your trip with time to relax on the beaches of South Goa. The golden sands on India’s west coast are the perfect contrast to the cultural highlights of the north. Goa, ruled by the Portuguese for over 400 years, still reflects this heritage in its food, streets and culture. Llama Travel offers stays in beach resorts on Varca Beach, where you can unwind by the pool, wander along the shoreline, or watch the sun set over the Arabian Sea. For those wishing to explore, there is plenty to do. Dolphin-watching trips set out in the early morning, while kayaks and snorkels can be rented nearby for gentle coastal adventures. You can also join a Goan cooking class and learn to prepare traditional dishes using local spices and coconut, or take part in a relaxed yoga session under the trees.

Varca Beach, Goa

7. Speak to an Expert

Our travel experts have experienced India first-hand, so when you speak to us, you’re getting advice from people who’ve actually been there. With our knowledge and experience, we’ll help you create a holiday that’s planned perfectly for you, and filled with memories to last a lifetime.

 Ben, Travel Specialist

Inspired by this, and want to experience the best of India for yourself? Order a free brochure to find out more about our India itineraries, or contact us to speak to one of our India Travel Consultants today.

Found this blog useful? Sign up to our newsletter for more holiday tips and advice!