India - Love it or Loath it?

INDIA - EXODUS CLIENTS LOVE IT!

When I first travelled to India back in 1999 I was given all the usual warnings that people dish out for this destination and told in no uncertain terms that I would either love it or hate it! On my return, having had one of the best times of my life, I am always amazed and bemused when I do come across those who hate it, I can’t help but ask, why? How can anyone hate having the opportunity to visit a place that has so much to offer and can open our eyes to so many new experiences.

Don’t get me wrong, I know only too well how overwhelming India can be. The sheer volume of people, the intense heat, the smells, the constant horn blowing on the chaotic roads but mostly the widespread poverty that is so clear to see. But India is about so much more than this, and if you are prepared to surrender yourself to the unknown then no matter where you go or what you do, India will give you an experience of a lifetime.

Having managed Exodus’ trips to India for a number of years now, I can safely say that the clients who travel there with us absolutely love it – our holiday evaluation forms prove it! Not only do 92% of passengers state they will recommend the trip to their friends, but 96% agree that we operate in a responsible manner that benefits the local communities we visit. So my job now is to make sure that those of you who choose to travel with us, continue to come home loving India! Read India holidays reviews. 

Whether you have 10 days or a month to spare; whether you want to walk or cycle over some of the highest passes in the Indian Himalaya or through the tranquil landscapes of Kerala; maybe you want the best tiger safari or a cultural trip soaking up the stunning forts and palaces of Rajasthan. We strive to offer you a spectrum of itineraries capable of showing you all that this multidimensional country has to offer and during your time there our outstanding local leaders will show you the very heart of the country they love, or as they call it ‘the real India’!

In 2011 we have introduced five new trips to capture your imagination even further. One new cycling trip, a new trekking itinerary and three new cultural trips in northern India give you some exciting new options.

If your after a shorter trip then our 13-day Colours of Rajasthan trip (AIK) may be just the ticket; not only will it show you all the highlights of India’s colourful desert state but you will also visit the world famous Taj Mahal and go in search of the elusive Bengal Tiger in Ranthambore National Park.

If you have time to spare, then why not spend 3 weeks taking an in-depth look at Rajasthan and Gujarat by travelling between Delhi and Mumbai (AIJ). This classic journey offers so much, from the history of its forts, lake palaces, temples, hill-stations and on to the bustling cities. As well as the famous sites it will be the colourful and welcoming people of this unique area that linger long in your memories.

For something a little different you can now follow India’s holiest river, the Ganges (AIH), from the foothills of the Himalaya to the largest delta system on the planet. All tastes are catered for when traveling along this iconic waterway, from rafting or walking around Rishikesh to meandering down the river in our boats to Varanasi, taking in village life en route, as well as searching for the wildlife of Sundarbans Tiger Reserve.

If your after something a little more challenging then take a look at our new trek, High Passes of Kangra (TGG), or our cycling trip, Cycling through North India (MIS). Both trips start in Amritsar - home to the incredible Sikh Golden Temple.

If you have ever thought India might be a good place to go, but haven’t quite made it, then I encourage you to take the plunge and let us show you one of the most richly rewarding regions of the world.

Katherine Tory
Product Executive (India)

PS. I love it!