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Introducing India

From the food to the rhythms of life in India, travelers who seek the renowned cultural experience of visiting this country rich in history and culture find an unpredictable yet unparalleled experience.

When is the best time to visit?
India is an enormous country with diverse weather patterns, but usually the best time to travel to India is from October to March. Learn more
 
Where to go in India?
If strapped for time or visiting India for the first time, travelers usually opt to explore the Golden Triangle, the cultural hubs of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Visitors who want a less traditional vacation should consider the temples of North and Central India, the Goan beaches of the south, and the mountains and outdoor paradise near the Kullu Valley or Rishikesh. Balance the hustle and bustle of the big cities with time spent in the countryside away from the crowds. Learn more

How many days do I need?
2 weeks is the bare minimum to spend in India, but if possible, travelers should budget about a month to see the country, perhaps broken up into several visits. Learn more

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

India Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Ranganathaswamy Temple
Map of Tamil Nadu Temple Tour - 10 Days
Tamil Nadu Temple Tour - 10 Days

Hit the temple trail to visit some of the stars of South India on this 10-day itinerary. You'll experience the modern culture of the state of Tamil Nadu alongside ancient Indian history and mythology, touring some of the world's most impressive and intricately carved temples and taking in the natural views along the Bay of Bengal.

Stay a night on a houseboat for the ultimate Kerala experience
Map of Highlights of Kerala - 10 Days
Highlights of Kerala - 10 Days

This exciting 10-day itinerary introduces travelers to South India's serene state of Kerala. Kicking off in the historic city of Cochin, located on the Arabian Sea, you'll set off for lush plantations, protected parks, and hill towns in the Western Ghats. Next, cruise your way through the area's glittering backwater canals before finishing the adventure with some relaxed beach time, fresh seafood, and a taste of Ayurveda. 

This area of South India is known for its palm-lined network of canals
Map of Discover Kerala Tour - 6 Days
Discover Kerala Tour - 6 Days

This exotic itinerary is the ultimate introduction to South India's state of Kerala—an up-and-coming destination for savvy travelers. Kick off with an Arabian Sea sunset in Cochin before a private guide drives you through lush, hilly interiors peppered with tea and spice plantations. Continue the journey with an overnight cruise through infamous waterways, followed by a tour of Fort Kochi (by tuk-tuk) to finish the adventure.

Jama Masjid Mosque, Old Delhi
Map of Golden Triangle Tour - 6 Days
Golden Triangle Tour - 6 Days

Perhaps the most popular route in India, you'll visit the three famous sites of India's northwest—Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur—known as the Golden Triangle. You'll travel by road or train over the course of six days, exploring each city's cultural and historical heritage. This is a great tour for people's first visit to India if you're looking to see the main highlights.

Discover Rajasthan
Map of Best of Rajasthan Tour - 10 Days
Best of Rajasthan Tour - 10 Days

With its colorful culture and rich history, Rajasthan is a splendid display of a unique Indian heritage. This trip focuses on spectacular sights of India’s largest state, including the palaces and temples of Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur. This itinerary not only showcases the traditional architecture characteristic of the region, but also allows you to understand the depth of India’s past, making for an unforgettable experience.

Ladakh lake
Map of Highlights of Ladakh: Leh, Nubra Valley & Pangong Tso - 7 Days
Highlights of Ladakh: Leh, Nubra Valley & Pangong Tso - 7 Days

With a week to visit Ladakh, you'll have the chance to see all of the region's highlights. Start by exploring the city of Leh and touring the surrounding monasteries, then head to the Nubra Valley (whose Tibetan name means "valley of flowers") for sightseeing and a camel safari. Your next stop will be Pangong Tso, a sprawling lake known for its blue-green waters. Afterward, pass by scenic Sindhu Ghat and visit a local children's NGO, before returning to Leh for one last stroll through its colorful markets.

Make the Most of Your Time in India

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Humayun's tomb in Delhi
How Many Days to Spend in India

In India, there are itineraries to suit every traveler, from short sightseeing sprees to months-long backpacking trips. Whether you're on a quick, history-packed jaunt to tick...

Row of ocean fishing boats in the canals of the Kerala backwaters
1 Week in India - 5 Regional Itinerary Ideas

With only a week to visit India, maximize your time by sticking to a single region. Opt for a tour of the popular Golden Triangle—New Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur—or take in the...

The high-altitude town of Manali in northern India
10 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Ten days in India is enough to go beyond the highlights of one region, enjoying off-the-beaten-path sites or remote locales that wouldn't be possible with a shorter trip. Pair a...

Elephant showering himself in Periyar National Park
Map of 2 Weeks in India - 2 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in India - 2 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in India, travelers will have enough time to get intimately acquainted with a handful of key cities and sites. To get the most from your stay, you'll want to...

India Travel Essentials

All you need to know to get started planning the perfect trip
When to Visit India: Travel Tips for Every Season
Best Time of Year to Visit India

With pounding monsoons, piping hot summers, and (in certain places) snowy winters, India is a country of extremes. Spring and fall tend to be the mildest and most temperate, but...

Camels in the desert at sunset
Top 10 Things to Do in India

From tasting Mumbai's rich culinary creations to being doused in brightly hued powder during the country's colorful Holi festival, a visit to this ancient land is a feast for...

India Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
The Taj Mahal bathed in pink light
Planning Your Honeymoon in India

From the famously erotic temple carvings at Khajuraho to star-crossed lovers in today’s Bollywood films, India is in love with romance—and it has the honeymoon spots to show for...

Hawah Mahal
Family Travel in India

With delicious food, rich cultures, and stunning scenery, India has plenty of opportunities for unforgettable family adventures. You can meet rescued elephants in an animal...

Our Latest India Content

Experience the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the New World, at sunrise
Map of India's Golden Triangle & Kerala Adventure - 15 Days
India's Golden Triangle & Kerala Adventure - 15 Days

Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime that will take you to the highlights of both northern and southern India. First, discover the ancient forts and Mughal history of New Delhi, India's capital and largest city, plus dive into the country's famous street food scene. Then, you're off to the state of Rajasthan for cooking classes, cultural experiences, and browsing the bazaars of Jaipur and Udaipur before heading south to enjoy beach time, boat cruises, and nature hikes in beautiful Kerala.

Discover the hidden gem of Arunachal Pradesh in India's northeastern corner
Map of Splendors of Northeastern India: Arunachal Pradesh at a Glance - 8 Days
Splendors of Northeastern India: Arunachal Pradesh at a Glance - 8 Days

This eight-day journey through India's Arunachal Pradesh, the "Land of the Dawn-lit Mountains," will show you India as you've never seen it before. Use Guwahati as your starting point to explore the northern state, which borders China and Bhutan. See orchids and tigers in Bhalukpong, visit a yak research center in the Himalaya-ringed Dirang Valley, and climb to the Tawang Monastery, hidden in clouds on a steep mountainside overlooking a picturesque valley.

Tranquil morning at Jal Mahal Water Palace at sunrise in Jaipur
Map of Highlights of Tamil Nadu, Kerala & Rajasthan - 15 Days
Highlights of Tamil Nadu, Kerala & Rajasthan - 15 Days

Discover the highlights of three Indian states on this 15-day south-to-north trip. Start in Tamil Nadu, where you can discover ancient temples, opulent palaces, and plenty of colonial architecture. In Kerala, you'll cruise through the Backwaters on a houseboat, enjoy a Kathakali performance, and learn how to cook local dishes. Continue the cooking lesson in Jaipur, then head to Jodhpur to explore Mehrangarh Fort. End with another cultural performance, boat ride, and city tour in Udaipur.

India Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 2 Weeks in India - 2 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in India - 2 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 15 Days in India - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
15 Days in India - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 6 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
6 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for India
Travel specialist Ravi Tickoo
active 8 mins ago

Ravi Tickoo

World traveller, professional mountaineer and passionate adventure entrepreneur, Ravi has over 25 years of experience conducting adventure, experiential and culture tours across the length and...

read more...
Travel specialist Priya Dikshit

Priya Dikshit

Traveling is about making memories. Though traveling around and exploring new places is one of the best things you can do for yourself, it is always important to explore places and meet people who...

read more...
Travel specialist Sebastiaan Naus
active 23 hours ago

Sebastiaan Naus

Being born in the lowlands of Holland, my passion for mountains may not seem logical. However, my parents took me to the European Alps before I could barely walk and I can't remember any family...

read more...
Travel specialist Rajendra Singh
active 1 day ago

Rajendra Singh

I am passionate about travelling and have travelled to the most beautiful places in India. I have 16 years of work experience in the travel industry. I am glad that I got the opportunity to work in...

read more...

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Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan

Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

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Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

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Local support during your trip

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A portion of every kimkim trip goes toward the removal of carbon from the atmosphere. Learn more
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Kimkim is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.

Seller of Travel Registration number: CST #2136279-40.
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Trip Reviews for India

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Family trip to South India
India | Jun 25 - Jul 1, 2024

Soumya
Soumya K.
Scotch Plains, NJ | Reviewed on Jul 08, 2024
We planned a 6 day trip covering some of the coastal and temple towns in South India.
Right from planning, answering questions and arranging for logistics- hotels, guides, car etc, Ravi and team were on top of everything.
We had a wonderful experience with our 2 guides, Sam Benjamin and Marimuthu who were extremely knowledgeable about the area and provided us a lot of insights and also recommendations on places to eat, shop etc.
Ajith, our driver for the trip was always on time and kept...
Read more

We planned a 6 day trip covering some of the coastal and temple towns in South India.
Right from planning, answering questions and arranging for logistics- hotels, guides, car etc, Ravi and team were on top of everything.
We had a wonderful experience with our 2 guides, Sam Benjamin and Marimuthu who were extremely knowledgeable about the area and provided us a lot of insights and also recommendations on places to eat, shop etc.
Ajith, our driver for the trip was always on time and kept us on schedule
Overall, a memorable experience!! Looking forward to planning our next India trip with this team!!

Local specialist: Ravi Tickoo
Ravi
Ravi Tickoo
Local specialist in New Delhi | Replied on Jul 17, 2024
Dear Soumya,
Namaste!
Thank you so much for taking out time and sharing your reviews of the recent trip. We are happy to hear that you and your family had a nice and enjoyable trip. Guest feedback is of paramount importance to us as it helps us to improver the services wherever required and also encourages our team members to wrk even harder once they receive appreciation for their hardwork.
We are very grateful to you and your family for allowing us this chance to arrange your south... Read more

Dear Soumya,
Namaste!
Thank you so much for taking out time and sharing your reviews of the recent trip. We are happy to hear that you and your family had a nice and enjoyable trip. Guest feedback is of paramount importance to us as it helps us to improver the services wherever required and also encourages our team members to wrk even harder once they receive appreciation for their hardwork.

We are very grateful to you and your family for allowing us this chance to arrange your south India holiday.

we look forward to welcome you back on another holiday is other region of India . As you know India is such a diverse country with so much to offer and every holiday is itself an experience.

Best Regards,

Ravi

India
India | Apr 18 - Apr 29, 2024

Lupe
Lupe W.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on May 01, 2024

I had an amazing time in India! I appreciated everything about our trip!
I learned about India’s rich history, religions and culture. Love, love the food and guides. I especially want to mention our driver Ram. He was always punctual, attentive and courteous. I always felt safe with him. Thank you Ram. 🙂🙏🏽

Local specialist: Jay Kajaria

A great way to travel!
India | Mar 23 - Apr 5, 2024

J
Jean W.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Apr 27, 2024
We are so happy with our experience with Kimkim/Active India. Everything was well organized, which made our trip hassle-free. In particular, our two drivers (Mr. Puran and Mr. Sherin) were excellent. They made sure we were safe and comfortable the entire time we were with them, which was nice since they were the "constants" on our trip. While all our guides were good, Mr. Devinder in New Dehli and Mr. Virendra in Jaipur were superb. Devinder did a great job of being flexible with our... Read more

We are so happy with our experience with Kimkim/Active India. Everything was well organized, which made our trip hassle-free. In particular, our two drivers (Mr. Puran and Mr. Sherin) were excellent. They made sure we were safe and comfortable the entire time we were with them, which was nice since they were the "constants" on our trip. While all our guides were good, Mr. Devinder in New Dehli and Mr. Virendra in Jaipur were superb. Devinder did a great job of being flexible with our schedule to make sure all of our time with him was used to its full potential. Virendra's historical and current knowledge of Jaipur made our tours with him very interesting and informative.

One thing to note: the guides will take you to vendors where they will receive a commission on sales. In general, the vendors offer quality items, but you have to be firm and comfortable putting your foot down to say 'no thank you' to your guide and vendor if you aren't interested in purchasing anything.

Hotel Reviews
Forte Cochi (Heritage Hotel)

This was our last stay for our two-week visit to India. Forte Cochi is such a cute hotel with a lot of character! Our room was spacious and clean, the beds were very comfortable, and the staff was outstanding! The hotel is also located in a cute part of the city with shops all around. We will definitely stay here again.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Houseboat

We were told the houseboat would travel through the canals, allowing you to see the small villages. What actually happens is you boat out from where you board for about an hour with about 10-15 other boats, some of which passed within touching distance. Then, you boat the hour back and dock next to a house where the boat can connect to their electricity. While our cook and captain were friendly enough, they spoke little to no English, so my husband and I couldn't really ask any questions about what we were seeing, what we were eating, etc. Also, while there are lights on the boat deck, they're quite dim and a funny color (pinkish?). As a result, we ended up going to be quite early. If we were to choose again, we wouldn't do this again.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Fragrant Nature Munnar

The hotel was great, but we were here at the tail end of the prime season, so it was quiet (not necessarily a bad thing). In fact, we were redirected from one of the restaurants that was supposed to be open. The hotel sits perched on the side of one of the mountains and is viewable from the tea plantations and town below. The views from this hotel are AMAZING, and the massages are good also. The rooms were just the right size, and the staff was friendly.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Airlink Castle

We only stayed one short night while being transferred from Rajasthan to Muunar. The hotel was clean, and the staff was friendly. The best part of the hotel is the rooftop bar/pool area with a large-screen TV. Breakfast offered both traditional Indian and Western fare.

Authenticity & Character
Nothing unusual, but it's a nice, clean hotel.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Royal Heritage Haveli
Khatipura, Jaipur, Rajasthan

We stayed two nights at the Royal Heritage Haveli, and our room was HUGE! Built in the 18th century, they have done a very nice job of remodeling the building while keeping its integrity. The hotel is quiet and tranquil because there are only 18 rooms - a nice retreat after sightseeing all day! We ate one dinner and two breakfasts at the hotel, all of which were tasty.

Authenticity & Character
The hotel has been nicely remodeled and modernized while keeping the integrity of the building.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Chokhi Dhani Resort

Several friends from India recommended Chokhi Dhani to us. So, in fairness, I don't think we had the right expectations when we arrived. We just trusted their recommendation without much research. Chokhi Dhani is a resort modeled after a traditional Rajasthani village. Each room is designed as an individual "hut/house." In the evening, the grounds around the rooms were dimly lit, and few people were eating in the restaurant or outdoor buffet area. I'm guessing that most guests were next door where the shows, activities, shopping, and traditional Rajasthani restaurants are located. However, the dim lights and sparsely populated grounds were offputting. Regarding the activities next door, they were okay, but they seemed kind of cheesy. If you were visiting with children, I think it would have been more fun and interesting. Also, when we entered, we were told not to tip the performers, yet we had several who directly asked us for tips. The activities and shows are free, but it's an additional cost if you want to eat. It wasn't terrible - the rooms were clean, and the service was good. It just not what we had anticipated or wanted.

Authenticity & Character
Location
While it's still considered in Jaipur, it is a bit further out from city center.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
ITC Mughal
Agra

Our stay at the ITC Mughal was very nice. The hotel & rooms were clean, comfortable, and spacious, with many options in common areas for exploring and lounging. The staff was friendly, and the breakfast included in our stay was a massive buffet with Indian and Western options. We also got a massage while staying here, and it was well-priced and good.

Authenticity & Character
Nothing in particular, but it's a very nice hotel.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa

We stayed two nights at the Metropolitan Hotel & Spa while in Dehli. The hotel was clean, and the employees were nice and attentive without being overbearing. We ate breakfast each morning at the restaurant, which had plenty of Indian and Western options. The only negative aspect of this hotel is that the Wi-Fi connection was adequate in the common areas but spotty in the rooms.

Authenticity & Character
Nothing was wrong per se - it was just a hotel.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Wifi connection in the room was spotty.
Local specialist: Ravi Tickoo
Ravi
Ravi Tickoo
Local specialist in New Delhi | Replied on May 08, 2024
Dear Jean,
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts about your recent trip to India! We are pleased to hear that your experience in India was wonderful and that both you and your wife enjoyed every moment of this journey. We truly appreciate your kind words and appreciation of our team.
On behalf of the entire Active India team, we thank you for trusting and choosing us to organize your India tour.
We hope you visit India again in the future and explore even more of what our...
Read more

Dear Jean,
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts about your recent trip to India! We are pleased to hear that your experience in India was wonderful and that both you and your wife enjoyed every moment of this journey. We truly appreciate your kind words and appreciation of our team.

On behalf of the entire Active India team, we thank you for trusting and choosing us to organize your India tour.
We hope you visit India again in the future and explore even more of what our Incredible country has to offer.

We look forward to welcoming you to another India experiential tour in the coming future,

Best regards,

Ravi