India

India's cultural heritage has a specila for the British architecture. The days of the Raj transformed many of India's beautiful cities and hill stations to their retreats. The chraming cities to date are home to many wonderful specimens of architecture that include mansions, churches, and many other incredible monuments. India's vast history and culture is not complete without a mention of the days of the Raj. These marvellously well-preserved monuments are witness to the days of the Raj. 

To relive the days of the Raj, explore these charming cities of India.

Delhi

Shimla

Kolkata

Discover the colonial heritage of Kolkata, a city where the British sought to build the Empire’s second city.  The Kolkata Heritage walk takes place in the morning , so one can take in the architecture and history of the city's many unique and spectacular buildings without much traffic on the roads. Begin at the Flower market There is an option to begin at The Flower Market on the River Hooghly, then continue to the  site of the terrible 'Black Hole', walk past the famous Writer's Building, the former Head Quarters of the infamous East India Company. Around the Dalhousie square , see the magnificent Governor's House, Calcutta High Court, Town Hall, General Post Office and the almost forgotten Charnock Mausoleum.

Mumbai

Chennai

India offers wildlife viewing unlike another. The country abounds in tigers, lions, colorful birds, rhinos, crocodiles and other species of the wild. The vast landscape, from the north to the south, east to the west to the lush jungles in central India offers incredible chances to wildlife safaris. There are jeep safaris, elephant rides, boat sfaris and opportnities to wlak on foot. Adding to the thrill of wildlife holidays in India are stay at eco-friendly wildlife resorts, campsites, treehouses, etc.

Ranthambore

Undoubtedly one of the most picturesque forest reserves across the globe, Ranthambore is a joy to explore and diverse assortment of flora and fauna captivates. Tigers can be easily spotted as can be crocidles sunning by the lakes and water bodies. Birds are a beautiful sights. Elusice lopeoards can be seen at some places.

Safaris in Ranthambore are organzied early morning and aftrenoons on a jeep or canters. An expert guide helps you spot animals in their natural habitats.

Kaziranga

Kaziranga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site supports higher density of Rhinos, Elephants and Water Buffalos, but it is the eastern range, which offers some of the most exciting and varied wildlife-watching in Kaziranga. At Sohola bheel you are likely to see Greater Adjutant Stork, Pallas’ and Grey-headed Fishing Eagle and a great variety of waterfowl. Otters are frequently seen on a nearby river, and the woodlands harbor woodpeckers, Fairy Bluebirds, flocks of Spot-winged Stares, warblers and much more. It is in this less visited region of the park that you will have the best chance of sighting Tigers.

Jeep and Elephant safari are conducted in the park. The tourists can hop onto the back of an elephant and wander into the dense regions of the forests. The wildlife lovers can also enjoy a boat cruise in the Brahmaputra River along the park.

Gir

The exclusive home of Asiatic lions in the natural habit, Gir National park in Gujarat is among the most visit places for a wildlife getaway. Besides, the king of the jungle, there are many inhabitants such as leopards, jackals and the Indian fox. Jeep safari brings you close to the lions.

Periyar

Settled in God’s Own Country of Kerala, Periyar National Park is one of the most popular places in for wildlife safari in India. Elephant’s and tigers are the most popular residents but there is the Indian wild dog, sambar, wild pig, barking deer, mouse deer, Nilgiri Langur, Nilgiri Tahr and others.

Early morning safaris are known for the decent chance of getting close to the wildlife as is boating in the Periyar Lake where the beasts come to quench their thirst. Eco-lodges and treehouses are popular options to stay while the national park also offers the chance to explore spice plantations of Thekkady.

Bandhavgarh

The most popular wildlife sanctuary in India, Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh has the highest density of  tigers the country’s national animal. Besides the Royal Bengal Tigers, this park was also famous for white tigers. Other animals inhabiting the jungles are sambar, chital, wild boar, wild dog, Indian fox, leopard, bison, blue bull, antelope, nilgai and others. Wildlife safari in Bandhavgarh includes options of jeep or elephant rides, stay at the jungle resorts, visit to the Bandhavgarh Fort and certainly exciting memories.

2020 ends in few days and with it the year of lockdown and limitations. 2021 is hopefully the year of the end of the Covid-19 Pandemic. While the world has not yet recovered, it slowly making way on the path of recovery. The travel-bug is also making a buzz. Once things settle down, here is why you must look forward to travelling in India in 2021.

India is absolutely amazing to explore in every way. And post Covid-19, is the perfect time to explore. Over 7,500km of coastline, the mighty Himalayas, lush Western Ghats mountain ranges and verdant forest cover with thriving wildlife offer a lot at your disposal. Besides there is history, culture, hospitality and some incredible experiences. All this and more can easily be your travel plans with Trans India Holidays. We specialize in crafting arranging meaningful travel experiences, specialists with first-hand knowledge of their destinations, and the freedom to change your plans if needed thanks to our flexibility promise, your travel plans are in safe hands.

Though there’s a month to go before 2021; here are reasons why you must make plans of India tour.

Good Food

Indian cuisines are a wide palate of delicacies that differ region to region but are an absoute delight for tatse buds. From the savory parathas of Old Delhi to spicy kachoris of Jaipur, Ayurveda-based dishes of Kerala or the fine-dining at the best hotels across the country, the options are more than you can wish for.

Endless Road Trips

Post Pandemic and 2021 travel plans are mostly going to be roadtrips. From being safe in your own vehicle with your own comfort is a matchless trave experience. India’s sheer size makes it incredible for road trips of all sizes, be it day-long family excursions and slightly longer drives. From the  gorgeous Golden Triangle tour circuit, strectch of the Western Ghats, routes through winding mountains, the surreal journey across the Thar Deser and white sands of the Kutch, the holy grail of road journeys- Manali-Leh highway and more—you’ll be listening to nothing but John Denver.

Value more for your Money

Cost is going to be a major factor in the sustainability of regular travel after COVID-19. Travelling in India means lower costs and is the sensible thing to do considering the present circumstances. Instead of splurging on flight ticket and accommodation costs abroad, why not take an extended break at a boutique homestay in the hills or experience the royal life at a heritage property? Need ideas on how to get more value out of what you spend on travel? Read our post-lockdown bucket list for Delhiites—the idea is to immersive yourself in rewarding experiences.

Incredible Train Journeys

If epic rail journeys is your thing, then India has some amazing rides. Even if you are not a fan you will become one.  The opulence of India’s luxury trains that take you through the country’s sweeping panoramas, can make you forget all that. And ever since the Maharajas’ Express and the Golden Chariot slashed their tariffs, we are sure one can start believing in the dream of riding a luxury train again.

The Palace on Wheels, India’s premier luxury train, runs from September through April, taking one from the colourful cities of Delhi, Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur, and Agra, covering 2,400km in the process. The Golden Chariot, which covers Karnataka and allows you to choose from among different packages, will resume operation in February 2021. Deccan Odyssey—five-time winner of Asia’s Leading Luxury Train title at the World Travel Awards—offers a wide range of itineraries.

Heed the Call of the Wild

There’s no chance you can see such a large variety of birdlife and wildlife—from wild cats, rhinoceroses, elephants, and river dolphins—anywhere closer. If Husing Valley in Hemis National Park is where the elusive snow leopard thrives, Rajiv Gandhi National Park is one of the top places in the world to spot leopards. Birders get lost—literally and otherwise—in Rajasthan’s Keoladeo Ghana National Park, which is a premier migratory home for birds from northern and central Asia. Pangolins and Malayan giant squirrels share the thick forest of the Neora Valley National Park with clouded leopards, barking deer, red pandas and Himalayan tahr. The list is long, with 553 wildlife sanctuaries, 103 national parks and 50 tiger reserves in the country. While you’re at it, do read our quick guide to spotting the rarest of the rare in India.

For Heritage Homestays, Houseboats and Treehouses

Isn’t it amazing that you can isolate while on a vacation, living in a treehouse? Perched high on treetops, they not only allow you incredible views of the immediate wilderness and vistas far away but also add a bit of thrill to your stay. And those who’ve always dreamed of caravanning like Shah Rukh Khan in Swades can now actually journey through wild Karnataka in a fully equipped, state-of-the-art campervan, or undertake adrenaline-pumping adventure in the treacherous terrain of the Northeast, driving top-of-the-line off-roaders, pick-up trucks and UTE trucks—all fully outfitted for camping.

With homestays having become a preference over hotels in the immediate post-pandemic future, it is also worth savouring the sense of privilege that comes with staying at a heritage home. For instance, you could stay at Odisha's majestic Belgadia Palace, the once-residence of the Mayurbhanj royal family, or spend a week or two at a pristine heritage retreat in Ladakh. 2021 is also the time to tick off the houseboat stay off your list as you travel not only to Kashmir and Kerala but also Goa, where houseboat cruises on the Mandovi and Chapora rivers are a rage, and Assam.

Lose the Pandemic Blues

While India has always been known as a major wellness destination, the demand for yoga-centric retreats, therapy and holistic treatment in the year following a pandemic is expected to go up. A Global Wellness Institute report has predicted a 7.5-percent annual growth rate for the industry. Prepare to regain the health (mental and physical) lost during the pandemic months with special wellness retreats in the Western Ghats, naturopathy sessions in the lap of Himalayas, Ayurveda treatment in the backwaters of Kerala and sampling the goodness of wholesome mountain produce in Himachal. Uttarakhand, Kerala and Karnataka are some of the most-visited wellness destinations in India but states like Goa are fast catching up with their own austere and luxurious offerings—and we couldn’t be gladder.

India has a rich legacy of hospitality, where guests are welcomed as Gods. This tradition continues till date and to prove it there are abundant options of luxury boutique hotels. Visitors in India have now the choice of staying at the small heritage hotels, treehouses, villas, camps, palaces, cottages, and forts. Enjoy comforts of home, up in the mountains, in cities, along the shores in the countryside and dotted on the diverse landscape.

Boutique hotels in India have increased in considerable numbers. Apart from luxury, boutique hotels are well known for providing unique experiences and personalized services to the travelers.

Of the many options, we list the top luxury boutique hotels in India.

1. Imperial Hotel, Near Connaught Place, Delhi

The Imperial is an iconic property in the capital city Delhi. The 5-star hotel built in 1931 is reminiscent of the days of British Raj. Experience the charm of art Deco-inspired architecture, sprawling lawns and magnificent luxuries.

Similar to Delhi, The Imperial Hotel is a mix of history with the modern world. The hotel has been the site of many important instances in history. It is an art gallery, museum and hotel all in one. The dining and spa experiences are truly unrivalled. Fulfill your fantasies for a pampering vacation in India, with your stay at the luxury boutique hotel.

Trivia: The luxury hotel has a bar, Patiala Peg form where the measure for a larger measure of 75 ml pegs instead of the usual 60 ml ones was coined. The bar was frequented by the Viceroy of India during the British colonial rule.

2. Tree of Life Resort & Spa, Near Jaipur

A new addition to the popular boutique hotels in India, The Tree Of Life Resort and Spa in Jaipur is a pleasant escapade. It stands apart, as it an oasis of calm. The lavish resort recreates the charm of a typical Rajasthani village with the modern luxuries to make your stay comfortable.

Set on the foothills of Aravalis, the resort imbibes the royal traditions of Rajasthan. Rose-hued walls, clear blue pools and royal villas are dotted on the sprawling grounds. Indulge in day-spa pampering, poolside lounging and gorging on delicious platters of multi-ethic dishes. Get a taste of village life, indulge in elephant rides and mountain treks. Create cherished memories of your vacation.

Trivia: The hotel highlights the green beauty of the Aravalis which is quite different form the image you have when you think of the desert state.

3. Oberoi Vanyavilas, Ranthambore National Park

Wildlife adventures in India are one of the best experiences of the country. Oberoi Vanyavilas is a one of its kind luxury tented camp offering a wild escapade in the Ranthambore National Park. The luxury boutique hotel in India offers comforts with equal dose of adventure.

Oberoi Vanyavilas reflects the style of the safari encampments. One of India’s first luxury tented camps, it offers a faultless Ranthambore experience. Enjoy the roar of the big cats, the melodies of birds and lush green. The resort is definitely a perfect spot to unwind. Go for game drives or safari. The resort acts as your own home, even in the wilderness.

Trivia: The authentic jungle camp in Ranthambore is known for its esteemed luxuries apart from the thrilling adventures.

4. RAAS Devigarh, Near Udaipur

RAAS Devigarh is one of the best choices you make to enjoy a royal vacation in Rajasthan. Housed in an 18th century fort palace overlooking the brilliance of the village of Delwara, Devigarh is a testimony of the Rajputana magnificence.

Remarkable from the inside as it is from the outside, the luxury boutique hotel in India can be counted among the world’s best in this niche. Soak in the bliss of pleasures of the Rajputana royalty without missing on the modern day luxuries. Stay in the majestic suites, dine like royalty and be pampered to wonderful spa experiences. The hotel is quite close to the village of Delwara, which offers amazing architecture, art and activities.

Trivia: Devigarh Palace was the primary location for shooting of the film Eklavya. The film was chosen as India's official entry to the Oscars for nomination in the Best Foreign Film category for the year 2007.

5. Samode Safari Lodge, Bandhavgarh National Park

Luxury vacations out in the wild are just the thing for the Samode Safari Lodge. Get ready for a first-hand experience of the Indian jungle in the Bandhavgarh National Park. It is one of the few places in the world where you can still see wild tigers in their natural habitat.  Samode Safari Lodge offers a thrilling adventure-filled vacation with unmatched hospitality and luxury in the heart of wilderness.

In the heart of tiger country, guests can enjoy quite a relaxing getaway.  Enjoy the fresh air of greenery, spot local wildlife and enjoy nature. Spa treatments, delicious gastronomy, a heated swimming pool, and cooking classes are only some of the other temptations.

Trivia: Madhya Pradesh was where the tales of Jungle Book were imagined and the boutique resort rec-creates the thrill.

6. Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling

Would you not love to wake up to aroma of fresh tea and views of misty hills? The Glenburn Tea Estate in Darjeeling offers a charming getaway. The delightful retreat is set above the banks of the River Rungeet in the sleepy hill station of West Bengal. The Prakash family owns the tea planation and have turned it as one of the finest luxury boutique hotels in India.

The 1600 acres tea estate promises an experience like never before. Enjoy the colonial architecture, modern pleasures and bliss. Enjoy a number of outdoor activities like camping, hiking and rafting. Learn about the workings of a tea estate. Take home fond memories of the relaxing stay.

Trivia: The Glenburn Tea Estate was started in started in 1859 by a Scottish family by the name of Glenburn. It offers a first-hand experience of tea making.

7. Casa De Goa Boutique Resort

Created of all fantasies you have of Goa, Casa De Goa Boutique Resort is one of the popular luxury boutique hotels in India. Tucked away in the Calangute Beach, the resort is away from crowds. The private property comprises of  luxury vacation villas which are perfect for exclusive holidays in Goa.

The tropical house relaxes your senses. Enjoy the comfort of your lodging. Food and every other service is personalized accommodating all your needs. The privacy of the resort is its biggest draw. Enjoy an uninterrupted honeymoon or vacation with your family. You return to your home with fond memories of your stay here.

Trivia: The renowned Conde Nast Traveller includes Casa De Goa Boutique Resort in “The 25 Best Beach Villas in the World” for the exquisite design and attention to detail.

1. Rajasthan

2. Kerala

3. Goa

4. Darjeeling 

5. Ranthambore