tours

A haven for Tigers, Rajasthan's iconic Ranthambore National Park is one of the best wildlife holiday destinations in India. Located close to the town of Sawai Madhopur, the wildlife sanctuary is a wonderful getaway in the wild owing to its amazing wildlife population, a gamut of wildlife resorts and properties and an incredible tale to take home. Ranthambore's proximity to Jaipur, a popular tourist destination in North India and a point on the Golden Triangle Tour establishess its populartity among tourists in India.

Previously the hunting grounds of the royal family, it is now a reserve for many species of the animal kingdom. The winter season in India, between October and March is considered the best time to visit this park due to the pleasant weather condition when the temperature ranges between comfortable 10℃ and 30℃. During winter, animals can be seen in the broad daylight basking under the sun. 

Well, here we have listed out five more interesting reasons to visit this stunning wildlife reserve on your next trip during Winter holidays.

1. A Birdwatcher’s Haven
This stunning wildlife reserve is home to many beautiful bird species like flamingos, flycatchers, waterfowl, sarus crane, grey hornbills, cormorant, serpent eagle, bronzed-winged jacana, painted spurfowl and nightjars among others. A huge number of migratory birds flock near the enormous water bodies at the park.

2. Easy Wildlife Spotting

Here comes the fun part! You can take a safari ride through the Ranthambore National Park and spot absolutely gorgeous and elegant Bengal tigers and leopards, who roam around freely and bask under the sun during Winter season. Apart from the large tiger population, the place is replete with chital, nilgai, wild boar, sambar, rufous tailed hare, toddy cats, sloth bear, mugger crocodile and more.

3. Mesmerising Nature's Beauty

The Aravalli and Vindhya ranges pass through this iconic wildlife reserve, overlooking stunning lakes like Padam Talao, Malik Talao, Rajbagh Talao and Surwal Lake. The hilly terrains also house many ancient temples like the Chamatkar Jain Temple, Kala Gaura Temple and Amreswar Mahadev.

4. Ancient Banyan Tree – Perfect Spot For Insta-Worthy Pics

Clicking Instagram-worthy pictures have become a part of traveller’s life. Don’t you agree? There is a gigantic Banyan tree in the Ranthanthambore National Park, which is known as the second-largest banyan tree in India. It sits near the Padam Talao lake and is one of the best places to click social media-worthy pictures!

5. The ancient Ranthambore Fort

For the unversed, the Ranthambore National Park is named after the 10th-century Ranthambore Fort, that is perched on the hilltop and sits within the park. Earlier, the Chauhans were on the authority of this fort. The Delhi Sulnature captured it in the 13th century. Now, it stands as a striking old-world edifice, in the middle of the wilds. It is counted among the Hill Forts of Rajasthan, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India.

Ranthambore park opens in the mid of October every year. So, get your family members, siblings or friends together and enjoy a wildlife jeep safari through the stretches of the beautiful jungle.

India has a glorious legacy with millions of tales to narrate. Exploring the old days, learning about culture and understanding the traditions make for an enriching experience. India is a land of colours, festivities, magnificent architecture, delicious cuisines, intricate craftsmanship and so much more. Capturing the essence of this diversity are heritage walks. Relive history and experience India’s incredible legacy especially through heritage walks helps build memories for travellers visiting the country.

So, if you want to expereince

Old Delhi Street Food Tour

The bylanes of Old Delhi are a treasure for foodies and calls for a walk. Savor the best of street food delights of the Old city of the 18th century in the original nooks and corners of Chawri Bazaar and Chandni Chowk. Check out the popular eateries, reputed for their authentic delicious fares along with hygiene and superior quality. Relish delectable flavours of parathas, kebabs, butter chicken, jalebis, aloo chats, miscellany of chutneys, masala chai, selection of sweet kulfis and more.

Old Delhi Heritage

The fascinating bylanes of Old Delhi are a treasure of rich heritage of the 18th century. The Mughal city was once the capital of the empire and thus lovingly crafted with grandeur and attention to detail. Begin the heritage walk from the UENSCO World Heritage Site of Red Fort, historical mansions, bustling bazaars, beautiful temples and shrines to observe the craftsmanship of local artisans.

Jaipur

The Pink city of Jaipur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with fascinating sites, culture and experiences. The heritage walk begins Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) and ends at the Tripolia Gate, enjoying the architecture, sampling culinary delights, like Pakoras, Aloo Tikki, Samosa and local sweets and observing the local artisans in their workshops, Jewellers and Silversmiths, Gold painters and Bangle making experts.

Varanasi

The holy town of Varanasi is a living legacy of thousands years. The oldest inhabited city of the world is dotted with ancient temples, alleys, river ghats and more. The Varanasi heritage walk begins at the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple, moving to the bylanes of the old city and ends with the famous foodie experiences. A must visit experience is observing the craftsmen weave the finest Banarasi sarees.

Old Goa and Latin quarters

Goa hidden rich history and culture are a treasure to explore. The UNESCO World Heritage churches and convents are a glorious chapter of the legacy.  On the heritage walk, discover wonderful Portuguese era architecture, ethereal churches, gaily painted buildings, original wrought iron railings and terracotta tiled roofs.

Fort Cochin

Discovering Fort Cochin (Cochin’s heritage area) on foot, is a great way to experience it’s sights and sounds. Walk past the Vasco Da Gama Square, home to the remains of Fort Immanuel and Dutch cemetery ,  Bishop House and Santa Cruz Basilica St Francis Church & Chinese fishing nets. Then board a vehicle to move to Mattanchery area to visit the Dutch Palace and the Jewish Quarter on foot, before boarding your vehicle to return to the hotel.

Mumbai

Introducing you to the bygone days of glory we bring the guided walking tour of Mumbai. Walk past iconic landmarks of the city. Take a look at the Gateway of India overlooking the cerulean spread of the Arabian Sea regaling the tales of the past. Next, walk past the Bombay Yacht Club, Regal Cinema, the Wellington Fountain, the Prince of Wales Museum, and the city’s Victoria Terminus Railway Station, which is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in India.

India is welcoming and wonderful all through the year. But, there is a traditional season for travellers. The pleasant months from November to March are generally preferred. But, that does not mean that the offseason is to be avoided. The lean tourist season is a time which has been relatively unexplored. Offseason travel experiences in India are just a break from the tourist tracks. In the vast diversity of the country, the summer months and even the monsoon is not same at every place. Different places offers different experiences.

So, if you have missed the window of the peak season, fret not, the offseason too is amazing even better. Choose to enjoy pleasant summers in the hill stations or get soothed by monsoon or brave the thrill of the Himalayas.

Here are some handpicked option from the best offseason travel experiences in India.

Summer wildlife safari in India

Wildlife safaris are one of the best highlights of India. Summer is relatively offseason for wildlife tours in India but that only makes it an enjoyable experience.  In summer, as the water holes start to dry up, the animals come out into the open making sightings absolutely fantastic. Also, summer is the best time to get away in the cool jungles. Stay at the well-facilitated luxury wildlife resorts in India. Opt for early morning safaris or the ones at evening.

Whether it’s the Royal Bengal Tiger or the Indian Elephant or the One-Horned Indian Rhino, the majestic beasts can be easily spotted. Without the winter fog, it is a magical time to capture some memorable experiences.

Most of the wildlife sanctuaries and national with few exceptions are open until July 1. Kerala’s Periyar National remains open even in the monsoon along with few other zones of the other national parks.

The options for summer wildlife safaris India are also abundant. Be it Rajasthan’s Ranthambore National Park or Madhya Pradesh’s Bandhavgarh, Kanha and Kanha or South India’s Nagarhole, Bandipur and Periyar or the Himalayan National Park or North East’s Kaziranga, there is a lot on offer.

Monsoon Ayurveda Session

Ayurveda massages are a must try on any tour of India. The ancient science of health and wellness does not have a particular peak season or an off-season. It can be tried any time you would like to feel relaxed, rejuvenated and revived.

Dating to almost 5000 years back, Ayurveda till date offers holistic solutions for wellness. Removing pollutants, stress and other maladies of today’s era it brings you back to the natural. Ayurveda massage or treatments soothes your weary body, mind and soul.

The summer months in India make you produce copious amount of sweat, opening up the glands which help you detoxify. The best time to surrender your body to Ayurvedic treatments is during the summer, as the Ayurvedic oils soak into one’s skin. The light diet, detoxifying treatments and soothing philosophical approach, make you feel uplifted, calmed and pure. Even the monsoon in Kerala, is a right time for a pampering Ayurveda session. The humid weather works like magic for the natural therapies to work.

An Ayurveda session or rather an Ayurveda treatment for days or weeks is one of the best offseason travel experiences in India.

Getaway to the Mountains

India is blessed with the mighty Himalayas and the lush stretch of the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats. The peak travel months from October to March is a time to check out the other amazements of India, which makes most travellers miss out on the mountains. For the offseason travel in India, a getaway to the mountains is a must try.

Come summer and the hill stations in India are bustling with activity. Be it the charming Shimla or the tea-paradise Darjeeling, the scenic Munnar or the quaint Ooty, there are many favorites. Besides spending time in the bliss of mountains, there are options to try out a motorbike trip to the “Land of High Passes” Ladakh or some scenic treks to Himalayas. For the unexplored there is the holy town of Dharamshala or the entire North East.

Wellness is synonymous with India. The country focuses on holistic well-being of body, mind and soul. The search for wellness in India is centuries old and has evolved to suit the needs of the modern day. People from all walks of life choose vacations in India as the ultimate secret of rejuvenating the body, mind and soul. In the current scenario, post-COVID vacations means getting away from cities and breathe in the pure bliss of nature. And this is where, wellness vacations come into play. Wellness retreats are calling with ancient healing techniques amid nature’s bliss. India abounds in wellness retreats, whether it’s a simple ashram experience or luxury getaway, here are our handpicked options.

ANANDA IN THE HIMALAYAS, RISHIKESH

The palace turned wellness oasis, Ananda in the Himalayas is among one of the best wellness retreats in India. The resort offers daily yoga programme, special diets, and other therapies that heal the body, mind and soul. Besides the healing daily schedule, the luxurious suites overlook tranquil vistas of the lush green hills and valleys. A short drive from the holy towns of Haridwar and Rishikesh, the resort offers respite from chaotic lifestyle. The perfect post-COVID vacation awaits in the pictorial retreat.

WILDFLOWER HALL, SHIMLA

Nestled in the Himalayas, the Wildflower Hall offers a holiday of many unforgetable experiences. Enjoying yawning views across the soaring peaks of India’s dramatic Himalayas, the resort offers a truly relaxation time. The former residence of Lord Kitchener, erstwhile commander in chief of the British army, Wildflower Hall is now among the 5-star hotel in not just Shimla but also India. Exuding the ambience of a grand stately home, the  hotel is ideal to recuperate in the bliss of the mountains. Welcoming lounge, lavish rooms, delectable meals, and a lot of facilities tempt with a vacation to remember.

THE OBEROI SUKHVILAS RESORT & SPA, CHANDIGARH

With legendary Ayurvedic guru Dr Robert Svoboda facilitating occasional three-day wellness programmes alongside The Oberoi Sukhvilas’ already well-stocked spa and yoga menu, this is a holistic retreat that certainly knows how to tailor an exclusive experience.

THE HAVELI HARI GANGA, HARIDWAR
Dodge the crowds thronging around Haridwar’s holy Har Ki Pauri ghat and sink into The Haveli Hari Ganga’s private bathing area instead. It’s said that a dip in the Ganges rinses away negative karma. Morning yoga is instructed in a serene studio adjacent to the holy currents, with a havan, or fire blessing, to follow.

DEWA RETREAT, RISHIKESH
A swimming pool in Rishikesh is worth its weight in crystal malas, and Dewa Retreat’s is flanked by the exceedingly popular Pure Soul café, offering precious raw cacao-based and maca-laced delicacies. Perched above the Ganges, views from the rooms’ private balconies are spectacular, and if the in-house yoga classes aren’t up to scratch, there are plenty more to choose from in the surrounding ashrams.

RAAS JODHPUR
Early risers can stretch out in Raas Jodhpur’s rooftop Baradari restaurant for a sunrise sequence overlooking Rajasthan’s iconic 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort. Follow with an invigorating Prana Vitality massage treatment in the hotel’s supremely indulgent Ila Spa.

THE LEELA PALACE, UDAIPUR
The Leela Palace’s five-day Sojourn into Self programme offers a heady tasting menu of holistic treatments served up at its in-house ESPA—the largest in India. Add in a Vedic astrology reading, daily yoga and blessings at the local Shiva temple, and this is ascetism of a highly decadent order.

THE OBEROI UDAIVILAS, UDAIPUR
Sun salutations facing the sparkling Lake Pichola as dawn lights the horizon is a spiritual experience worth photographing. Chase a morning class with a dip in the infinity pool gazing out the distant throb and pulse of Udaipur.

RAAS DEVIGARH, DELWARA
An elegant 18th-century palace near Udaipur, Raas Devigarh serves up an imaginative menu of guided yoga and meditation practices compellingly seasoned with incense, essential oils, sound healing and cranial holds.

HILTON SHILLIM ESTATE RETREAT & SPA, PUNE
With soaring views across Maharashtra’s rugged mountains, Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat & Spa’s 70 forested acres are worlds away from the hustle of Pune. The yoga pavilion and meditation cave make good use of the hotel’s scenic location, with bicycles and hiking trails inviting a full immersion in the surrounding nature.

TAJ EXOTICA RESORT & SPA, GOA

Sink into Goa time on Benaulim Beach in the quieter south, where the on-demand yoga menu stretches to whatever appeals, from a gentle session tailored to beginners to a challenging set for more experienced practitioners.

SWASWARA CGH EARTH, GOKARNA

Draw away from the opulence of SwaSwara for a moment to meditate in its private hilltop meditation perch. With sprawling views across the aptly named Om Beach, this is where an open-eyed meditation practice comes into its own.

CARNOUSTIE AYURVEDA & WELLNESS RESORT, KERALA
Panchakarma—an intense revitalising Ayurvedic cleanse—is especially popular at the luxury beachside Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort. With rigorous daily massage treatments, delicious dosha (body type)-specific Indian fare and morning yoga and pranayama (breathwork) by the sea, it’s easy to see why.

MARARI BEACH, KERALA
There are plenty of places to flop in the verdant 12 acres of Marari Beach’s sumptuous resort: in a hammock beneath the palm trees; on a sun-lounger gazing out at the Arabian Sea; and, of course, on a yoga mat, the waves harmonising with your ujjayi breath.

NIRAAMAYA RETREATS SURYA SAMUDRA, KERALA
Perched atop a dramatic cliff above Kovalam Beach, days at Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra slide by with hypnotic serenity. Punctuate them with yoga: an invigorating session at sunrise gazing out at the Arabian Sea, and a soothing restorative class as the sun sinks beneath the horizon.

SOMATHEERAM AYURVEDIC HEALTH RESORT, KERALA

Somatheeram is a Heritage Ayurvedic resort in Kerala, just 15 km from Trivandrum Airport, and 8 km from Kovalam. It is a perfect getaway amid captivating and comfortable surroundings, homely and attentive service. Perched on the top of a hill, overlooking the cerulean spread of the Arabian Sea, the Somatheeram Ayurvedic Beach Resort sprawls over 15 acres of lush greenery. Offering a unique blend of tropical beauty combined with contemporary facilities, the resort is a rejuvenating heaven far from the mad city bustle. Pamper yourself with superb Ayurvedic facilities, yoga classes and meditation programmes.
 

India is a land that has a rich ancient history and deep cultural roots. It is a land of spiritual blessings. A visit to India is unlike any other place one can visit in the world. Indian customs and rituals have been admired by most of the travelers who have visited the country and the vast range of geographical locations in India has made it one of the top tourist destinations.

1. Incredible diversity: India is famous for its unimaginable amount of diversity and yet in the midst of this there is unity. One can travel through India and experience a distinct cultural difference in every region. Even though historical standpoint India's assimilation strength always stays at a greater height. India truly offers countless shades in terms of culture, tradition, cuisines, languages and even landscapes. 

2. History: India has a mixed record of successes and failures. It is the world's most ancient surviving civilization and has thousands of years of history to be explored. Home to the ancient Indus Valley Civilization and a region of historic trade routes, the Indian subcontinent was identified with its commercial and cultural wealth for much of its long history. 

3. Folk Art: India has a profusion of folk art that is kept alive mostly in rural communities. Every region in India has its own style and pattern of art. The folk art of India is cultural and simple, yet very colorful and lively enough to speak volumes about the country's rich cultural heritage.

4. The Taj Mahal: It is a bit cliché, but travelers visiting India should at least save a day in their schedule to visit this enchanting beauty, the Taj Mahal. Taj Mahal is an enthralling piece of architectural art that portrays the love that Emperor Shah Jahan had for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

5. Religious festivals: The best way to understand the cultural map of India is by visiting India during an important local festival like Holi in Jaipur, Pushkar festival in Pushkar and Janmashtami in Vrindavan etc. Throughout the year different occasions bring together people from different walks of life to forget all their differences and get involved in pure fun. By taking part in these colorful festivities, one can see the liveliness of India today as it holds the traditions of its intriguing past.

6. Indian Hospitality: Indians consider it an immense honor to have visitors in their abodes, and go out of their way to gratify them. There's a famous saying in India, Athithi Devo Bhava, which means that the "Guest is God". There's nothing like Indian hospitality. And, as a result of the growing status of homestays in India, there are plenty of occasions to experience it.

7. Thrilling Wildlife: The wildlife sanctuaries of India are home to many of the World's endangered species of mammals and birds. Some of the destinations that offer an enthralling experience of the wild abode include Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Ranthambore National Park, Kanha Tiger Reserve, Sunderban Wildlife Sanctuary and Kaziranga National Park, etc. 

8. Delicious Food: In India, there is a well-known saying that "Appetizing food paves the way to someone's heart". Indian food is famous throughout the world, for being rich and flavorful. The cuisines in India vary from region to region, and street food is extremely popular too. 

9. Spiritual Experience: India is the origin of various religions and religious thinking. Many people visit India, not for the tourist attractions, but to experience a calm and serene environment and get in touch with their spiritual selves. Spiritual arts like yoga and meditation have fascinated a huge number of tourists from all around the globe. A visit to various temples, a look at the religious texts and the stories of how different legends initiated can provide a deeper vision into Indian culture and will definitely refresh your wits like no place in the world.

10. Music: India is well-known for its various folk arts and especially classical Indian music. Music is a vital part of the Indian society and many distinguished world musicians have originated from India since ancient times. The Carnatic influence from the 15th and 16th centuries AD plays a major role in shaping traditional Indian music. However, there are various forms of folk music which plays a distinctive sound and feel which is specific to their region of origination.

India is a sensory feast, and these are just a few reasons for you to visit this beautiful land.

Author Bio:

Priyanka is a travel writer at Trans India Holidays, she is passionate about visiting different destinations and sharing her experience through articles and blogs.