India Holidays
Overview
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Stretches of golden sand, palm fringed shores, aromatic spice plantations and majestic palaces characterise India holidays. A vast country waiting to be explored, from the towering beauty of Himalayas in the North to the fabulous beaches of the South, India is still bound by strong tradition and colourful cultures. An India holiday will delight and mesmerise.
India Highlights
Magic of Taj Mahal: One of the most recognisable structures in the world, and built as a symbol of eternal love by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife in the 17th Century, this stunning marble palace is truly a sight to behold and the manicured gardens provide a peaceful sanctuary to admire and contemplate its beauty in the centre of Agra.
Holy Ceremonies in Varanasi: Revered by the Hindu's, Varanasi, on the bank of the Ganges, is the holiest and oldest inhabited city in the world. Buy true Indian crafts, silks, saris, jewellery, and carpets, but do not miss a trip on a local Ghat at sunrise - you will remain speechless.
Tigers in Ranthambore: Visit the Ranthambore National Park. You may catch a glimpse of India's rich wildlife, including tigers as they lake on the banks of the turquoise lakes or hunt for their next meal.
The Golden Triangle: One of the most popular routes to that tourists take is the cultural cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Visit the beautiful fairytale palaces, Amber Fort, Elephant rides and the famous 'Ghost City'.
Tropical beaches: Goa has been a favourite destination for British Travellers since the 1960's. It has a laid back atmosphere and rich cultural heritage that will draw you to this area, as well as miles of golden sand beaches. And at night the party scene is second to none!
India Factfile
When to go
Temperature Range: 7°C - 42°C
Most popular: October - March
Best value: May - September
Best weather: October - March
Travel Information
Direct flights: Jet Airways, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic & Thomson
Indirect flights: Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad
Visa information: Visa required
Health information: Meningitis, Typhoid and anti-Malarial protection are recommended.
Time Difference: GMT +5.5 hours
When To Go
Best Value
To avoid the highest prices in the south of November to March the best value time to go is May to September during the monsoon season. The cities in the north are dependant on festivals and events taking place, but generally the prices are fairly static year round.
Best Time to Go
The winter season from October to February is cooler and a more comfortable temperature to get around India. The beach areas are still warm with a greater chance of rain but it is a welcome break to the high humid temperatures of the summer months.
Most Popular
The months of October to March seem to be the most popular. This is when most of the colourful festivals take place, the heat is more bearable and the rainy season has passed.
Hottest
Much of the country is hot and humid year round. The summer months of March-May can reach highs of up to 40ºC.
Climate
Being such a vast country India's climate differs considerably from the north to the south. Winter lasts from December to February, summer March to May and monsoon (India summer) in the south June to September.
India Travel Information
Flight information
There are a number of carriers to offering flights to Costa Rica from the UK.
Direct Carriers: Delhi and Mumbai can be reached on direct services with Jet Airways, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic. Thomson offer a direct service to Goa.
Indirect Carriers: Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad offer indirect services to Mumbai and Delhi via the Middle East. Sri Lanka Airlines features both cities via Colombo. The beach areas of Goa and Kerala can be reached via the main cities.
Departure Taxes: An international departure tax of 500 Rupees must be paid when departing India.
Visa information
British Citizens are required to have a visa to enter India and this must be obtained prior to arrival. Please contact the Indian Embassy for up to date country and visa information on 0207 836 8484.
How to obtain a visa
If you need a travel visa for your upcoming trip, Hayes & Jarvis are pleased to offer our customers the expertise and experience of CIBT, the Global Visa and Passport Professionals. CIBT UK Ltd specializes in fast, dependable visa application services. Don't wait until the last minute, for an application form and discounted pricing. Call 0844 800 4650 or visit www.uk.cibt.com/hayesandjarvis
