India - it's one of the largest and highly populated countries in the world, meaning there's certainly an awful lot to explore. Traveling with Great Rail Journeys allows you to make the most of your trip by offering a number of fascinating excursions and guided tours of this captivating, colourful country, its world-famous monuments and its charming towns -a truly unforgettable adventure!
Ranthambore National Park is a great way to see some of India's most fascinating animals including sloth bears, marsh crocodiles and leopards. It's also one of the only places in India where tigers can still be found in the wild! Visitors travelling with Great Rail will experience two game drives, both during early morning and the afternoon, ensuring you have the best chance of seeing all the animals.
Built in 1653, of entirely white marble, the Taj Mahal is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world and the most famous sight in India. Considered the finest example of Mughal architecture, the Taj Mahal stands on the banks of the Yamuna River and is set in immaculately manicured gardens. The experience is truly breath-taking, from the first glimpse, to the moment you leave, having watched the sun set behind the marble domes.
The Jal Mahal water palace is located in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake, in Jaipur. Jaipur is the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Rajasthan, in Northern India. Here you can visit the grand City Palace, home to the current Maharaja of Jaipur and the magnificent Amber Fort, located 11km outside of Jaipur.
If you want to get an authentic insight into the everyday lives of the millions living in Delhi, the 'India's Golden Triangle' tour is for you. You will be immersed in the hustle and bustle of the 'real' India, surrounded by exotic people, sounds and smells. The tour also visits India's largest mosque, Jama Masjid, as well as Raj Ghat, a moving memorial to 'the father of the Nation', Mohandas Gandhi.
One of the most spectacular sights in India is undoubtedly the sunrise at the holy River Ganges. Hindus flock to the river to cleanse themselves of their sins. 'The Grand Tour of India & Nepal' includes a boat ride along the river, starting from Varanasi.
Shimla is the capital city of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, located in northern India. Whilst the main streets are on a level ridge, many of the town's houses are sprinkled colourfully across the steep mountainsides. Shimla is known for its buildings, styled in neo-gothic architecture dating from the colonial era.
The Amber Fort is located in the Aravali Hills, 11km outside of Jaipur. Known for its artistic style of Hindu elements, the fort overlooks the Maota Lake. To reach the fort gates and cobbled paths, you board your transport -painted elephants - for a short but unforgettable journey.
One of the highlights of a trip to Kerala has to be cruising along the peaceful backwaters. As you glide slowly into an enchanting maze of canals and channels, you'll see kingfishers and egrets swooping just above water level. Occasionally, small fishing boats pass by filled with fresh fish. If you are feeling adventurous, there is the chance to take a canoe to explore the canals, which lead to a beautiful lake. If that's not for you, you can enjoy a short walk to a traditional Indian village.
