Bejewelled Splendour

India

Nobody leaves India unchanged

As one of the most diverse countries in the world, India offers incomparable variety. Walk the streets of any Indian city and find a dizzying array of religions, languages, food and culture that few countries can boast. Explore secretive jungles, spice-laden markets, places of pilgrimage and fairy-tale castles lost in time. For those wishing to combine adventure, culture and stunning wildlife, India cannot be matched.

The Himalayas in the north are the world’s mightiest mountains. Their lofty summits have enticed intrepid adventurers and devout spiritualists from across the world for millennia. In complete contrast Rajasthan parades its princely splendour with opulent palaces and imposing forts, whilst photogenic pink and blue cities spring from the desert and Kipling’s jungles harbour a thriving population of wild tigers. In the west, the Kashmir region is renowned for cold deserts and Buddhist rituals, while in the east one can recharge in the colonial cool of Darjeeling’s tea plantations, take puja on the holy Ganges at Varanasi and explore the Kingdom of Sikkim. The pace slows in the tropical backwaters of southern India – the perfect antidote to the chaos of the north and the ideal place to relax after an action-packed trip.

You Will Love

• Vibrant cities
• Rich cultural landmarks
• Fantastic festivals
• Majestic wildlife
• Colourful, chaotic & life changing

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India's diverse regions from the northern Himalayas to the tropical south

Rajasthan & surrounds

Rajasthan captivates the mind and heart with its imposing forts, striking temples, vibrant colours and rich cultural heritage. Despite being a desert state, it is home to a wealth of interesting rural towns and villages as well as some of India’s most iconic cities - Udaipur, known as the ‘Venice of the East’, Jaipur the ' Pink City', Jodhpur the 'Blue City’, Jaiselmer and Bikaner.

Kerala & Southern India

From the peaceful palm-fringed backwaters of Kerala to the stunning temples of Tamil Nadu, Southern India is serenely beautiful. Beaches and backwaters, temples and tigers, spice plantations and sleepy fishing villages await in this tropical paradise, so different from the mayhem of northern India. Delicate, fragrant and idyllic, southern India will soothe your senses.

Delhi, Agra, Varanasi & Mumbai

Delhi is sprinkled with captivating ancient monuments, magnificent museums and is steeped in glorious, but turbulent history. It provides an intoxicating mix of the ancient and the modern, reflected in its two parts: Old Delhi, the Muslim capital of India, a walled city with narrow alleys, mosques, temples and bazaars dating back to the 12th century; and New Delhi, the city created in 1911 to be the British capital with the grand Lutyens-designed government buildings, the majestic India Gate memorial and the thriving hub of Connaught Circus.

Northern India, the Himalaya, Kashmir & Sikkim

The Himalayas are the world's highest & mightiest mountains. Many of the Indian subcontinent's great rivers - the Ganges, the Brahmaputra and the Indus - flow from the range’s lofty summits, bringing life to the lowlands since time immemorial. The sheer geographic diversity of this region encompasses high altitude pastures, verdant forested valleys, turquoise lakes and a kaleidoscope of flora and fauna. The isolated snow-capped peaks are a far cry from the madding city crowds for which India is famed.

Rajasthan & surrounds

Kerala & Southern India

Delhi, Agra, Varanasi & Mumbai

Northern India, the Himalaya, Kashmir & Sikkim

Unforgettable Experiences in India

Revel in the Holi Festival celebrations

Take a boat cruise on Lake Pichola

Discover the secrets of Amber Fort

Encounter the Pushkar Camel Fair

Ride Bactrian Camels in the Hunder Desert

Go white water rafting on the Zanskar River

Search for elusive cats in Periyar Tiger Reserve

Explore the backwaters of Kerala in a houseboat

Stand in awe at the Taj Mahal

Ride a rickshaw through Chandni Chowk

Glamp in supreme comfort at the Hornbill Festival

Walk in the footsteps of the Slumdog Millionaire

Light a lotus flower candle on the Ganges at an Aarti ceremony

Chant with monks in Thiksey Monastery

Walk the beautiful blue streets of Jodhpur

A selection of our favourite places to stay in India

Taj Mahal Palace Hotel – Mumbai, Central India

At the water's edge, in the city's heart

The history of Mumbai and The Taj Mahal Palace are dramatically intertwined. The hotel is Mumbai's first harbour landmark and was the first licensed bar in the city. For more than a century, the Taj has played an intrinsic part in the life of the city, hosting maharajas and dignitaries from across the globe - a luxurious experience. Read More

Haveli Dharampura – Old Delhi

Mughal architecture meets contemporary design

Haveli Dharampura is situated in the historic heart of Old Delhi, nestled among the narrow alleyways of Chandani Chowk, one of the oldest bazaars in the city. Amidst the vibrant hustle and bustle, the Haveli stands as a historic landmark and a peaceful city retreat, a great base from where to head out and explore. Read More

Samode Haveli – Jaipur, India

Ornate royal mansion in Jaipur

Unexpected and charming, Samode Haveli is a 200‐year old intimate townhouse, belonging to the royal family of Samode, hidden deep in the folds of the busy streets of old Jaipur. With its mix of history, simple style and interesting features, Samode Haveli is the reigning hip heritage hotel in Jaipur. Read More

Oberoi Wildflower Hall – Shimla

Mountain Haven

Situated at 2500m in the magnificent Himalayas, Wildflower Hall is a fairy tale luxury resort in 22 acres of pine and cedar forest. It recreates the grand style of the colonial era with wood paneling and original artwork creating an aura of old-world charm. The resort also offers white water rafting, mountain biking, archery and more. Read More

RAAS Jodhpur – Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Jodhpur Style

In the north-east quarter of Jodhpur’s old walled city lies Raas, a boutique luxury hotel with spectacular views of the fort. It is a combination of old and new, the only luxury boutique hotel within the walled-city and embodies the region‘s heritage with class and understated elegance. Read More

Suján The Serai – Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Outrageous Desert Luxury

The luxurious and immaculate desert camp, The Serai, lies in its own little oasis 45 minutes away from the craziness of Jaisalmer. This is a beautiful and stylish escape with divine desert views and exquisite night skies. A handful of elegant tented suites are effortlessly chic, opulently furnished and styled in classic elegant desert themes. Read More

Suján Sher Bagh – Ranthambore NP, Rajasthan

Tigers & Tents

The 12 hand-stitched canvas tents at Sher Bagh camp reflect the style of the 1920’s and arouse nostalgic evocations for life on safari during the heyday of the Raj. In addition to faultless service, elegant style and exquisite dining, the wildlife is spectacular. Sher Bagh is an authentic tented jungle camp and the perfect base for tiger spotting! Read More

Suján Jawai Leopard Camp – Jawai, Rajasthan

Safari Luxury

A modern take on a tented camp, Jawai blends white canvas with stainless steel and leather accoutrements to create an elegant escape in Rajasthan. The camp shares the dramatic rocky environment not only with leopards, but also with the Rabari herdsmen, whose vibrant red turbans are synonymous with the landscape. Read More

Malabar House – Cochin, Kerala

A haven of tranquility

Malabar House is situated on a peaceful green in the centre of Fort Cochin (Kochi) in Kerala. Formerly an 18th-century Dutch colonial residence this small, luxury boutique hotel offers a haven of tranquility in the city. The whole place is effortlessly stylish and is as romantic on ‘candlelit’ evenings as it is during the bright, sunny daytime. Read More

Palais de Mahe – Pondicherry, Southern India

Colonial French chic in India

In the heart of Pondicherry’s French Quarter, Palais de Mahe is a characterful retreat within easy wandering distance of the picturesque promenade. Spice-laden breezes drift off the Bay of Bengal and local artists display their work. Palais de Mahe is a grand and fitting base for exploring this beautiful and enchanting city. Read More

Rajmahal Palace – Jaipur, India

Wildly colourful Jaipur

Rajmahal Palace is located in the centre of Rajasthan’s bustling ’Pink City’, Jaipur. It is one of the oldest and most treasured properties belonging to the Royal Family and is the oldest Palace in Jaipur. Over the years this palace has hosted Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth as well as Jackie Kennedy among others. Read More

Rawla Narlai – Narlai Village, Rajasthan

A gem in rural Rajasthan

Located between Udaipur and Jodhpur in the heart of the Aravalli Hills, Narlai is the ideal spot to break your journey and enjoy rural Rajasthan. This 17th century property was once a favourite hunting lodge of the Jodhpur royal family. Today, a real highlight at Rawla Narlai is the ‘Stepwell Dinner’, dining by candlelight. Read More

The Imperial Hotel – New Delhi

Classic Heritage Hotel

Arriving at The Imperial Hotel with its 24 towering signature palms and turbaned sentries at the door will immediately transport you back to the glamour of India’s Raj. The restored 1930's Victorian style building is a perfect meeting of old and new. Grand and luxurious, the hotel makes the perfect start or end to your stay in India. Read More

Oberoi Amarvilas – Agra, Northern India

Taj Mahal Luxury

With excellent views of the timeless monument to love, the Taj Mahal, there can only be one place to stay in Agra - the Oberoi Amarvilas. Oberoi Amarvilas boasts a breathtaking display of terraced lawns, ornate gardens complete with fountains and pools and rich interiors that take you back to an era of emperors & princes. Read More

More places to stay

Taj Mahal Palace Hotel – Mumbai, Central India

Haveli Dharampura – Old Delhi

Samode Haveli – Jaipur, India

Oberoi Wildflower Hall – Shimla

RAAS Jodhpur – Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Suján The Serai – Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Suján Sher Bagh – Ranthambore NP, Rajasthan

Suján Jawai Leopard Camp – Jawai, Rajasthan

Malabar House – Cochin, Kerala

Palais de Mahe – Pondicherry, Southern India

Rajmahal Palace – Jaipur, India

Rawla Narlai – Narlai Village, Rajasthan

The Imperial Hotel – New Delhi

Oberoi Amarvilas – Agra, Northern India

A collection of journeys in India

See Itinerary

Classic India & Pushkar Camel Fair

Inspiration Itinerary | Camels, Culture & Iconic Cities

The Pushkar Camel Fair is an Indian spectacle on an epic scale! Thar camel drivers converge on the holy town of Pushkar for just 2 weeks every November. It is a once in your lifetime opportunity to witness the colour and carnival of one of India's last great traditional fairs and, combined with a journey through some of India's most iconic cities, you have the makings of a perfect recce of Rajasthan!

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Amongst the Maharajas

Inspiration Itinerary | India in Style

This luxurious journey carries you through the iconic cities of Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and Udaipur, viewing imperial monuments, royal palaces and the beautiful ode to love, the Taj Mahal. Along with the opportunity to track Royal Bengal tigers in Ranthambore you will stay in luxurious hotels, known for their exceptional service and world-class facilities, combining all the right ingredients for an unforgettable holiday.

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Rajasthan Active Family Adventure

Inspiration Itinerary | A Fun Filled Active Family Adventure

This educational and inspiring family adventure travels through the diverse and colourful landscapes of Rajasthan, showcasing a perfect balance of India's culture, wildlife, landscapes and architecture. Culminating in a two day trekking and wildlife walk in Kumbhalgarh Sanctuary, and a visit to the iconic Kumbhalgarh Fort & Jain Temple in Ranakpur, this ticks all the boxes for families who love to explore!

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Celebrate Holi in India 2024

The spring festival of colour - March 2024 [Sold Out]

Of all our women only travel groups, ‘Holi India' is the most popular - it sells out every year! Designed specifically to coincide with the annual Holi colour festival that celebrates the beginning of Spring, this spectacular itinerary will awaken your senses and touch your heart as you immerse yourself in all the wonders of India as you explore the real Rajasthan.

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Wild India Adventure

Inspiration Itinerary | Big Cats in India

An incredible wildlife safari combining the best of central India's National Parks and Wildlife Reserves. Go in search of the impressive Bengal Tiger, elusive Asiatic Leopard and India's array of Jungle Cats. You are likely to also encounter Indian Wild Dog, Barasinga (deer), Indian Bison & Sloth Bears. Then throw in a visit to the iconic Taj Mahal and this itinerary ticks off some big bucket list Indian icons!

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Icons of India

Inspiration Itinerary | Quintessential Indian Icons

A journey that focuses on four iconic destinations including two of India's most awe inspiring achitectural endeavours - Agra's Taj Mahal and Amritsar's Golden Temple whilst exploring the highlights of the Lake City of Udaipur and the Pink City of Jaipur. Explore four iconic monuments - one the ultimate monument to love, Amber Fort - the most impressive edifice in the Golden Triangle, the picturesque lake in Udaipur and the pre-eminent spiritual site of Sikhism; all whilst staying in accommodation that has absolute flair and finesse.

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Southern India Sojourn

Inspiration Itinerary | Explore the best of Southern India

From the Arabian sea to the Indian ocean explore ornate temples, sample culinary delicacies and marvel at the spectacular landscapes of Southern India. Travel from the Tamil Nadu capital of Chennai visit French influenced Pondicherry, the anomaly that is Auroville, delightful Chettinad, the towering temples of Madurai, the spice plantations of Thekaddy, the unique backwaters of Kerala all before ending in the fascinating port town of Cochin. Offering a very different experience to the north Southern India will impress!

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Sensational India

Inspiration Itinerary | India from north to south

From Amritsar's Golden Temple in the north to the sleepy backwaters of Kerala in the south you willl discover India's geography and scenery is as colourful and diverse as her history and culture. Encompassing a multitude of icons, mouth watering cuisines and a delightful array of palaces, forts and havelis, on this trip you will experience the best of India - from top to bottom!

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Wild India! With Tropical Ice

Set Departure | Mobile Hiking Safari, India

Tropical Ice’s ‘Wild India!’, is the sister expedition to ‘The Great Walk of Africa’. Bearing all the same hallmarks of challenging but beautiful walking, heritage hotels, luxurious tented accommodation and the unique opportunity to explore areas on foot that tourists simply do not visit. This is India’s definitive walking safari and an opportunity not to be missed!

More journeys

Exellent and wonderful, reaching way above expectations.

Elizabeth Mackintosh

Julia you did a fantastic job - everything was first class. Well organised, efficient and stress free. We all agreed it was the best holiday we've ever had. Cant wait to travel with CSC again.

Milford family

We are so happy we put our trust in CSC, we had an amazing adventure and would recommend them to anyone.

Kim & Brad Balance

The trip exceeded my expectations and was the best family holiday I have ever had. Our children simply loved it and now I know more about African wildlife than they do about our own farm animals.

Rowntree family

Classic Safari are the people who genuinely know other culture and offer incredible insight to perfectly meet your expectations.

Melanie McMillan & Iain Jones

We loved it all. Our son wants to go back tomorrow. We would ALL go back again!

Laurence & Remi Cunningham

An amazing experience - the best family holiday we have ever had. We were extremely impressed by the meticulous attention to our itinerary. I can't speak highly enough of all the elements of this exciting journey!

Sheryl & Robert Taylor

Thank you for making our trip to Africa so spectacular. The attention to detail really made it special. It really was the trip of a lifetime.

Paul Cozzi

Very knowledgeable and patient. Our trip was all that we hoped for. Wonderful!

Jane & Robert Happell

Everything was perfect! Advice and information on destinations and activities hit everything I had hoped to experience. I contacted the Classic Safari Company upon recommendation and have now, in turn, recommended to others.

Tim Bradley

You can't improve on perfection. I had my best birthday and holiday with my family celebrating my 80th birthday in Africa. Everything that Julia organised was perfect and the whole trip was a highlight!

Buckingham Family

The trip of a lifetime, couldn't have dreamt of a better adventure if I tried.

Emma Jeffcoat

Absolutely everything was first class & so well organised.

Simon & Jackie Adams

Classic Safari Company has done it again! A unique experience that ticked all the boxes - wildlife, culture and dining experience. A dream come true!

Ros Wheeler

Their experience and knowledge of Africa is evident and we couldn't have been happier with the total package. This has given us a taste for Africa - now we are ready for more.

Andrew & Pip Stevens

If you want the most sensational experience in Africa let Julia and the staff at Classic Safari Co plan it for you! Their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm for their job means your every wish will be fulfilled.

Miriam & Joseph Harrison

Classic Safari is the place to go to for "top end" adventure travel.

Ron & Alison Guthrie

Classic Safari Company were brilliant - 10/10

Di & Kingsley Yates

The Classic Safari Company is the best I have dealt with. Extremely knowledgeable & professional, friendly, patient & understanding of first timers to Africa.

Annette Whiley

It certainly was the best trip we have EVER had. The experiences were mind blowing. We want everyone we know to experience Africa - the animals, the people - magical.

Jo-anne & Dean Mifsud

Would do it all again and not change a moment. Best holiday ever!

The McGowan Tribe

An absolutely fantastic travel company - every one of the many trips they have organised for us over 22 years have been faultless and fabulous.

Judith & Roger Williams

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