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Discover our group tours to India

Whether it’s high-energy cities or rural backwater tranquility, our  small group tours in India cater to any kind of traveler.

Explore the Golden Triangle on a guided group tour and navigate the bustling bazaars of Delhi, then rise early to watch the sunrise over the iconic Taj Mahal, with its white marble stonework reflected in the Yamuna River. Feeling active? Jump in the saddle for a tour of Kerala by bike, exploring tropical forests and tea plantations on an adventure cycling tour.

For those traveling with children, our family adventure tours in India include thrilling game drives in Ranthambore National Park in search of Bengal tigers, monkeys and sloth bears. Clear your mind and embark on a journey of spirituality through the Himalayan foothills as you visit the yoga and meditation capital of the world, attend atmospheric Aarti ceremonies and soak up the stunning scenery of this enchanting region.

Sleep like a Maharaja in Rajasthan and stay at an opulent hotel in Jaipur, where former kings and queens once resided. Meanwhile, in the south of India, you’ll stay on upmarket houseboats, five-star resorts and forest eco-resorts where you can listen to on-site naturalists talk about local birdlife and butterflies.

If you’re new to small group travel, We've answered some of the most-asked questions on what to expect.

Our most popular India tours

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India tour highlights


A journey through India is a feast for the senses: Rose pink palaces and vast deserts, to dense jungle and sprawling cities, India offers an extraordinary mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Our small group tours to India not only take you to must-see sights like the Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri and the Amber Fort, but also to its hidden gems. You’ll venture into national parks teeming with wildlife, from tigers at Ranthambore National Park to leopards and sloth bears in Satpura on our Indian Wildlife Adventure.

Discover some of our top highlights of India below:

Taj Mahal
Commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz, the Taj Mahal is one of the world’s most iconic buildings. Constructed from radiant white marble and adorned with exquisite inlay work, it took a workforce of more than 20,000 men to construct its vast dome and soaring towers.

There’s no better time to experience the peace and serenity of the Taj Mahal than at dawn. On our North India Explorer vacation, you’ll watch the sunrise before heading off to enjoy the other sites of Agra.

Kerala
Kerala offers a slower and more comfortable pace than many of the country’s other regions. A lush contrast to the dry and desert-blanketed north, and the cold and mountainous Himalaya, Kerala is home to a huge number of tea, coffee and spice plantations, palm-lined canals and, of course, a vibrant culture.

Kerala is the perfect destination for a food tour in India, especially for vegetarians, owing to the region’s fertile soil and rich agricultural traditions. The backwaters of Kerala are best explored by traditional houseboat or by bicycle. On our Kerala Backwaters adventure tour, you’ll travel from the colonial city of Kochi (Cochin) to the waterfront villages of Allepey, the tea hills and spice plantations of Munnar, and explore the wildlife of Periyar National Park.

Golden Triangle
The cultural heart of Northern India, the Golden Triangle refers to the three most famous cities – Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. It’s a classic route, perfect for first-time visitors looking to uncover some of India’s most iconic sights.

Join our Golden Triangle small group tour will see you travel the jumbled markets of Delhi by rickshaw, admire the celestial Taj Mahal at sunset and spend time in quiet contemplation among the painted and mirrored palaces of Jaipur’s Amber Fort.

Rajasthan
Step into history in Rajasthan, a region shaped by warrior kings, desert traders and the enduring grandeur of its hilltop forts and royal palaces. Explore the golden dunes of the Thar Desert and the Charming market towns and rose-pink walls of Jaipur. 

Our Rajasthan – Land of the Maharajahs group tour includes many highlights, from the blue-toned city of Jodhpur to the lakes of Udaipur and the desert city of Jaisalmer.

 

Solo travel in India
 

You don’t have to travel with a companion to enjoy a small group tour in India. In fact, our tours are designed to make solo travel easy and enjoyable, and you’ll find that around half of the travelers on your trip will be traveling alone.
 

Frequently Asked Questions


Is India safe?
India is generally safe for travelers, especially when joining an organized small group tour. As with anywhere, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and take sensible precautions, particularly in busy urban areas. Traveling with a trusted operator ensures you have expert local guidance and support throughout your journey, giving you peace of mind as you explore.

What is the best time to visit India?
The best time to visit India is generally between October and April, when the weather is warm, dry, and sunny with clear skies. However, December to February in Delhi can be a bit foggy, though temperatures are cooler.

If you're keen on wildlife spotting, aim for April or May. During this dry season, animals gather around waterholes, making them easier to spot.

The monsoon season runs from May to September, bringing rain and humidity. Despite this, it's a good time to explore the north, particularly the desert state of Rajasthan and the mountainous region of Ladakh, where roads are clearer after winter.

For specific events, plan your Rajasthan trip for late November to see the Pushkar Camel Fair, or visit Northern India in June to experience the vibrant Hemis Festival.

What should I pack to go to India?
What you pack depends on when and where you’re traveling but lightweight, breathable clothing is a must in most regions. It’s best to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or rural areas. Loose-fitting pants, long skirts and scarves are ideal. Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen to stay protected from the sun, and a light jacket or sweater for cooler mornings. Comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent and a refillable water bottle are essential.

What food will I eat on a tour to India?
India's food scene is incredibly diverse, and while you’re there, you'll have the opportunity to savor a wide range of regional specialties. Expect everything from fragrant curries and vibrant street snacks to hearty vegetarian dishes and fresh, warm breads. Meals will often highlight local flavors, with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available. Your tour leader will help you discover safe, delicious options and navigate any dietary needs you might have.
 

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There's a reason why 98% of customers say they'd book an adventure with us again.

Unforgettable experiences

From big wows to hidden gems, our tours leave you feeling that you've really explored.

Expert tour leaders

Chosen for their great knowledge of your destination and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

Small group tours

Average groups of 11; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.

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How we operate sets us apart; our flexible booking policy, our loyalty scheme & sustainable approach.

India tour reviews

Average customer rating:

4.6

/

5

Independent service rating based on

 

1333

 

reviews.

India's Golden Triangle

The thought of a week in India was a little daunting but Explore had a great itinerary that was supe...view more

Dave - 5 days ago

Discover India's Little Tibet

This trip is not for the faint hearted! The majority in my group were 'returners' to India and for m...view more

Trusted Customer - 9 days ago

Discover India's Little Tibet

Accommodation at Alchi was substandard unclean and way below the all other hotels etc on the trip (h...view more

Stuart - 10 days ago

Discover India's Little Tibet

When Air India cancelled all their flights on 24 June, Explore quickly got me an alternative flight ...view more

Trusted Customer - 24 days ago

Discover India's Little Tibet

The itinerary was - overall - excellent although not necessarily according to the published programm...view more

Nicholas - 27 days ago

Discover India's Little Tibet

Itinerary was exactly as stated.We had problems with flights as the air space had been closed down. ...view more

Trusted Customer - 29 days ago

Delhi to Kathmandu

An amazing trip that kept on delivering. As previously said in other reviews, full on with some long...view more

Stu - 2 months ago

Kolkata to Amritsar

The rail trip across north India with Explore was undoubtedly a magical and once in a lifetime exper...view more

Trusted Customer - 2 months ago

Spiritual India - Foothills of the Himalaya

It was very special to be able to experience the country through spiritual ceremonies and visit the ...view more

Trusted Customer - 3 months ago

India's Golden Triangle

The tours was full on but very enjoyable. The Leader was very knowledgeable and passionate about the...view more

Trusted Customer - 3 months ago

India Tiger Safari

Veeru (Singh) is a top notch tour leader. He's all you could ask for really - exceptionally knowledg...view more

Rich - 3 months ago

India's Golden Triangle

Our guide, Pradeep, was fantastic and really made the trip as he was so knowledgeable. Everything ra...view more

Aishling - 3 months ago

Spiritual India - Foothills of the Himalaya

Great to see three key spiritual sites for the key Indian religions. Bathing in the Ganges and the ...view more

Trusted Customer - 3 months ago

Cycle Kerala

Great balance of sights, experience and cycling. Fantastic food

Trusted Customer - 3 months ago

India Tiger Safari

The Explore! guide Veeru Singh was absolutely brilliant, able to cater for some people's specific di...view more

Phillip - 3 months ago

Family India Golden Triangle Adventure

Trusted Customer - 3 months ago

India Tiger Safari

A thoroughly enjoyable trip! If your sole purpose is to see tigers please bear in mind that they ar...view more

Eileen - 3 months ago

India's Golden Triangle

Fabulous holiday, action packed but with comfort in mind. There were 10 of us travelling in a spacio...view more

Trusted Customer - 3 months ago

India Tiger Safari

Our guide was an experienced birdwatcher since childhood.He was experienced in finding and naming al...view more

Karen - 3 months ago