India

"Incredible India" is both a cliché yet the truth, as any traveler who has spent time in this vast and one-of-a-kind country can attest.

From the lush waterways of Kerala in the south, to the Himalayan peaks of otherworldly Ladakh, India enchants through its eclectic cuisine, splendid architecture and landscapes, and breathtakingly rich cultural traditions.

Plan a bespoke India itinerary with Boutique Explorer.

Learn more below (click to navigate):

• India Destinations

• Sample Itinerary: Two Weeks in Rajasthan

• Unique India Accommodations

India Destinations

Below you’ll find a handful of India’s most compelling destinations. As part of the trip planning process, we can discuss these and brainstorm others to ensure your personalized itinerary matches your interests and priorities.

Mumbai.

Once the hub of British colonial rule of India, Mumbai today is the country’s largest city and its commercial heartbeat. Mumbai's allure extends far beyond its economic significance: it encapsulates the very essence of the youthful vibrancy of contemporary India, and is the heart of the world-famous “Bollywood” film industry. The bustling metropolis boasts some of India’s best museums and galleries, and shoppers will find everything from top Indian designers to traditional crafts in boutiques and markets across the city.

Rajasthan.

Featured in our sample trip below — along with the capital city of Delhi, and the unmissable Taj Mahal — Rajasthan is what many travelers envision when picturing India. The former home of the Rajput kings, Rajasthan's regal palaces and imposing forts are a major draw to this history- and culture-filled region, with key destinations including the “Pink City” of Jaipur, the “Blue City” of Jodhpur, and the “Venice of the East,” Udaipur.

Kerala.

Famous for its colorful dance traditions and lively festivals, Kerala lies on India’s southwestern shores, where you’ll find some of India’s richest tea plantations and the spice lands of Malabar. Traditionally, Kerala was one of the first areas of India to see European settlement, and English, Portuguese, and Dutch settlers have left an indelible mark on the cultural canvas of the region. To enhance your time in this relaxed corner of the country, boost your well-being with therapeutic treatments in the birthplace of Ayurveda.

Ladakh.

The northernmost region of India, Ladakh borders Tibet and is a cultural crossroads. This captivating region serves as a magnet for Ladakhi Buddhists, who have imbued it with their spiritual essence through the creation of picturesque mountain monasteries. The majestically beautiful region and its valleys attract not just travelers interested in meditative traditions, but also adventurers seeking to trek through the breathtaking landscapes.

Goa.

Up the coast from Kerala, Goa offers a cultural mix of Indian and Portuguese cultures not found elsewhere in the country. This scenic destination offers a glorious beachfront setting perfect for a peaceful respite during your discovery of India’s more bustling locales. Once the endpoint of the “Hippie Trail” to India, the resort area now offers a mix of comfortable and casual enclaves to soak up the sunshine or enjoy some lively nightlife.

Varanasi.

Nestled along the hallowed banks of the sacred Ganges, Varanasi is a feast for the eyes and the senses. As one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, the city is replete with historical and cultural treasures and steeped in spirituality. Varanasi resonates with the heartbeats of devout Hindus who converge upon its sacred ghats to partake in timeless rituals. Its bustling markets and vibrant shopping enclaves invite you to explore a tapestry of local craftsmanship that has charmed travelers for centuries.

Sample India Itinerary: Two Weeks in Rajasthan

Below you’ll find a sample trip for India.

When planning your private trip, we can customize this or begin completely from scratch (learn more about the trip planning process).

Day 1.

Welcome to India! On arrival in New Delhi, you’ll be met and transferred to your beautiful accommodations in the city center (The Imperial New Delhi).

Day 2.

A full day to explore vibrant and bustling Delhi. After taking in impressive monuments such as Jama Masjid and Humayun’s Tomb, enjoy a rickshaw ride through the narrow streets of Chandni Chowk bazaar to taste a range of local delights.

Day 3.

Travel from Delhi to Agra by car, arriving in time to enjoy a sunset visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal this afternoon (The Oberoi Amarvilas).

Day 4.

Travel by car from Agra to the Pink City, Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Head out on an afternoon private walking tour of Jaipur's bustling bazaars (Rambagh Palace).

Day 5.

A full day to continue immersing yourself in Jaipur’s highlights. In the morning, head out on a private tour of the colorful City Palace, the iconic Hawa Mahal, and the fascinating medieval observatory known as Jantar Mantar (perhaps sitting with an astrologer for a reading afterward). Spend the afternoon shopping from local artisans and shopkeepers selling high-quality gems, rugs, pottery, and more.

Day 6.

Visit a traditional family workshop in the countryside outside of Jaipur where you can marvel at the intricate hand block Indian printing and natural dyeing processes, and try your hands at the craft yourself. Return to Jaipur, where at dusk you’ll have a private walking tour of the towering Amber Fort.

Day 7.

Today you will head to the outskirts of Jaipur to spend time with Asian elephants at a family-owned sanctuary for animals. After trekking the peaceful grounds of the sanctuary alongside these gentle giants and their attentive mahouts, enjoy a home-cooked lunch in this peaceful rural retreat.

Day 8.

Travel by car from Jaipur to Udaipur, one of the most picturesque cities in Rajasthan (The Leela Palace).

Day 9.

Spend the day with your private guide discovering why Udaipur is often described as the “Venice of the East.” Explore old bazaars and palaces by foot and rickshaw, and in the evening soak up the beautiful lake and surrounding green hills on a private sunset boat cruise.

Day 10.

After a leisurely morning, this afternoon explore the gorgeous lakes and Aravali Hills on two wheels with a private cycle tour through the countryside around Udaipur.

Day 11.

Depart Udaipur by car for two nights in the peaceful Rajasthani countryside (Mihir Garh or Rawla Narlai).

Day 12.

A full day to completely unwind at your luxurious rural retreat. Take a dip in the pool, relish in the tranquility, experience extraordinary hospitality, and indulge in delicious seasonal fare.

Day 13.

Today you’ll travel onward to your final stop, Jodhpur, the Blue City (RAAS Jodhpur).

Day 14.

Enjoy the day exploring Jodhpur’s vibrant markets (sampling incredible street bites along the way), taking in the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, and strolling through the picturesque old town painted a distinct vibrant blue hue, where you may just be invited for a chai in the home of a local Brahmin.

Day 15.

Transfer to the Jodhpur airport and begin your onward journey home.