India
Colours, Chaos & Spiritual Calm – All in One Journey
Where Every Day Feels Like a Festival
India doesn’t just welcome you, it wraps you in a whirlwind of sights, sounds, scents and smiles. It’s a country of breathtaking diversity, where no two days, meals, or moments are ever the same. One day you’re watching sunrise over the Taj Mahal, the next you're cruising through Kerala’s backwaters or wandering through Jaipur’s pink palaces. With over a billion people, dozens of languages, and thousands of years of history, India is as overwhelming as it is unforgettable, in the best way.
But beyond the big-ticket moments are the soul-stirring ones: a chai shared with a stranger, the sound of temple bells at dusk, or the quiet wonder of a tiger sighting in the wild. Whether you’re craving culture, nature, food, or spirituality - India delivers it all, in full, glorious colour.
Visa Requirements
UK passport holders must obtain a visa to enter India. The easiest way is an e-Tourist Visa, which can be applied for online. Make sure to apply a few weeks in advance, and check your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned return. You’ll need a digital photo and copy of your passport page. Once approved, your visa allows you to stay for up to 30 days.
Key Airports
- Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (DEL) – Ideal for exploring North India, including the Golden Triangle.
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai (BOM) – Great for coastal cities, west India and cosmopolitan vibes.
- Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (BLR) – Perfect for South India and gateway to Karnataka, Goa, and Kerala.
Spoken Languages
India has 22 official languages and hundreds of dialects, but English and Hindi are widely understood, especially in cities and tourist areas. Don’t worry if you don’t speak the language; a smile, a nod, and a bit of patience go a long way.
Try these handy phrases in Hindi:
- Namaste!– Hello
- Shukriya / Dhanyavaad – Thank you
- Kitne ka hai? – How much is it?
- Haan / Nahi – Yes / No
- Mujhe chai chahiye – I would like some tea
Holidays to India
During the Summer
Summer (April to June) is hot - think 35–45°C in many areas. The north can be especially intense, though hill stations like Shimla or Ooty offer cooler retreats. Monsoon season begins around June, bringing welcome rains and lush greenery to southern and coastal regions.
During the Winter
From November to February, India shines. The weather is dry and pleasantly warm across most of the country, ranging from 10–15°C in the north to 25–30°C in the south. It’s the best time for sightseeing, wildlife safaris, and beach holidays.
Top Indian Hot Spots
India is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of country. Marvel at iconic architecture like the Taj Mahal, ride a rickshaw through Old Delhi, or relax on a palm-fringed beach in Goa. Go tiger-spotting in Ranthambore, explore ancient forts in Rajasthan, or take part in a sunrise yoga session in Rishikesh. There’s no “right” way to do India, only your way.
Delhi – Where History and Hustle Collide
Explore Mughal palaces, bustling bazaars, and peaceful temples. Old Delhi is chaos in the best way, while New Delhi charms with colonial elegance and leafy boulevards.
Rajasthan – Regal Cities and Desert Dreams
Think camels, colour and castles. From Jaipur’s pink palaces to Udaipur’s lakes and Jodhpur’s blue city walls, Rajasthan is rich with royalty and romance.
Kerala – God's Own Country
Drift along the backwaters in a houseboat, watch elephants bathe, and savour spicy coconut curries. This lush southern state is all about nature and nurture.
Varanasi – Spiritual Heartbeat of India
One of the world’s oldest cities, Varanasi is pure magic. Watch dawn break over the Ganges, witness ancient rituals, and feel something timeless in the air.
Top Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Holiday
- Say Yes to Chai Breaks - Chai isn’t just a drink, it’s a cultural moment. Stop often. Talk to locals. Sip slowly. Some of the best stories in India start over a paper cup of milky, spiced tea.
- Pack Modestly (and Light!) - India’s climate is warm, but dress codes are often modest, especially near temples and rural areas. Loose, breathable clothes are ideal, and a lightweight scarf can be your most versatile accessory.
- Use Trains and Tuk-Tuks for True Local Colour - India’s railway system is vast and iconic - book a sleeper train for the full experience. In cities, auto-rickshaws are the fun, affordable way to weave through traffic (just agree on a price before you hop in!).
- Embrace the Unexpected- In India, things rarely go exactly to plan. That’s part of the adventure. Slow down, let go of strict schedules, and you’ll uncover magic in the most unexpected moments.
Why You Should Go (And Go with Marhaban Travel)
India is not just a destination - it’s a transformation. It’s wild, welcoming, wondrous and humbling, filled with stories, spirit, and a thousand reasons to return. Whether you're seeking temples or tigers, wellness or spice trails, India gives you the world in one country.
With Marhaban Travel, you'll experience India with care and confidence. We curate the highlights, guide you through the culture, and sprinkle in authentic, off-the-beaten-track moments you won’t find in guidebooks. So you can travel deeper, safer, and more meaningfully, without the stress.
India is waiting.
