India is a land of diverse cultures. The variations in physical, climatic conditions and the extent of exposure to other cultures have greatly influenced the traditions and culture of the different regions. There is an underlying basic factor common to the whole of India, with variations in the practices based on their local needs and influences. Further, the greatness of India has been in accepting the best from all the invaders and intermingling the new customs and styles with the existing - this is visible in all aspects - music, dance, painting, sculptures and architecture.

The influences of the Mughals and the British can be found in all aspects of Indian culture and they coexist beautifully and make up the fabric of this fascinating country. Indian culture and history are usually the best reasons to plan a trip here. Diverse and exotic, it is impossible to absorb all that India offers in a single trip. Make that first trip, and you will be hooked for life!

Indian art may, in a general way, be described as theological, hieratic, or, perhaps best of all as traditional. The purpose of Indian art, like all traditional art, is primarily to instruct men in the great first causes, which according to the seers, govern the material, spiritual and celestial worlds. Art is dedicated to communicating these great truths to mankind and, by the architectural, sculptural and pictorial reconstruction of the powers that maintain the stars in their courses.

Indian art and architecture can form the theme of some inspiring trips. Visit the temples of Tamil Nadu, enjoy the British influence in Shimla or visit the painted havelis in the Mandawa region, commonly referred to an open-air art gallery!

This treasure trove will leave you spell bound.

Festivals and celebrations are an integral part of daily life in India. Every season, every region and every community have their own special festivals which are celebrated with equal gusto.

There would not be a single day in the year when there is not a festival celebrated in some part of the country. Well known festivals include Diwali, Holi and Dusshera which are celebrated all over, and region- specific festivals include Onam in Kerala, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Hornbill festival in Nagaland, Hemis in Leh and Baisakhi in Punjab.

Come celebrate a festival in India, whenever you travel, wherever you travel to!

Food is a passion with most Indians. Cuisine in the country is diverse and exciting. Each region and each state boast of a completely different cuisine, different cooking style and a completely different food ethos.

It is true that you could live in India for a year and eat a different meal every day.

Goshtabas and “Kahwa” from Kashmir, Makki ki Roti and Sarson ka Saag from Punjab, Vada Pau from Maharashtra, Idli & Dosa from Tamil Nadu and Appam and Stew from Kerala……you will never forget the taste of India!

India is the birth place of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. Over generations Islam and Christianity have found a home in India. Besides these major religions, several sects and communities form the population mass of the country.

The soaring mandapas of the Hindu temple stand beside the steeples of the local church, both giving shade to the simple street side shrine created by the nomadic tribes! They have influenced each other; they coexist in harmony and have imbibed aspects of each other’s religion as their own.

No mean feat, given the importance of religion in the life of the common Indian.

This ancient land of nature therapy also carries in its bosom the magic of wellness and good living. When here, indulge in the traditional art of Ayurveda, practiced to elevate mind, body and soul. This ancient science is a partnership between ayu (life) and veda (knowledge). It is a simple way of maintaining wellness, by maintaining a balance between body and soul.

Where else would you find mystic wisdom that refuses to grow old with time…

It’s a wild, wild world out there!
India is home to a rich diversity of supplemented by an equally rich variety of flora and fauna. The sight and sounds of a majestic elephant, a peacock’s dance, the stride of a camel, the roar of a tiger are unparalleled experiences in themselves. Watching birds and animals in their natural habitats is an experience in itself. India has its fair share of Tiger Reserves. India’s National Animal, the tiger happens to be a symbol of strength and speed. India boasts of two-dozen Tiger Reserves.

The Royal Bengal tiger is amongst the most majestic species of the tiger. Sixty percent of the total population of the wild tigers in the world resides in India. Amongst the best-known tiger reserves in India is the Bandhavgarh in Madhya Pradesh. It is often referred to as the crown in the wildlife heritage of India. Tourists at Bandhavgarh can spot Royal Bengal Tigers, cheetals, leopard, gaur, sambhar, and many more faunal species.

The highly successful Project Tiger has shown once again that man can only undo in small ways the loss and destruction of natural habitat due to continuous growth and expansion of the population.

Filled with romance, style and adventure, each train journey in India is an experience. And if you travel in a luxury train, then it is no longer a means of transport, but a journey where you are in no hurry to arrive at your destination.

On board, the juxtaposition of the traditional with the contemporary is beautifully presented through vintage cabins, gastronomic cuisines and lively off-board entertainment.

Each journey is an exploration of India’s diversity, exotic locales and the discovery of timeless traditions as you experience varied sounds and visuals travelling through new regions and countryside.