Looking for a Group tour in India? Immerse yourself in the rich, vibrant, and diverse cultures of India with our all-inclusive adventure travel. Create memories you will never forget watching the sunrise over the Taj Mahal.
Camping in the desert on a camel safari. Relax on the beautiful beaches of Goan. From vibrant cities to rural villages, our adventure leaders take you off the beaten track as you explore all that India has to offer.
Our group tour in India
Our Group Tours take you to majestic places, guaranteed to make your followers jealous on Instagram! But let’s also take it one step further, taking you where other tours won’t. With us, you will delve into the local communities and then mix up a storm in a traditional cooking class before volunteering for an animal rescue, where you can bathe the elephant at a local temple.
With India such an impressive country, there is no wrong time to travel there. The most popular months are November to March when Rajasthan and the area around the Taj Mahal are hot but dry. In the summer months, it gets even warmer and more humid, but the advantage is that there are often far fewer tourists around, which means you get a much more authentic experience.
Being such a vast country with epic sites, India has so many destinations not to be missed besides gems off the rails that offer incredible experiences to its visitors. It can be difficult to narrow down places to visit in India … That’s why we have found the best places to visit in India.
Agra - Group tour in India
Agra – Agra, located in northern India, is home to the remarkable Taj Mahal. Consequently, it is the best place to visit in India and where everyone travels. Worth seeing, the Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most recognized landmark of India. It has an impressive white marble architecture and it took a total of 17 years to build. It was built in Agra from 1631 to 1648 for the emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite wife. This wonder of the world is the jewel of Muslim culture and a universally admired masterpiece.
Agra doesn’t just have the Taj Mahal which is worth a visit. For more history and culture, you can visit Agra Fort. This fort was built in 1573 under Akbar’s reign and it took more than 4000 workers and 8 years to complete the fort!
Goa – Goa is a state of western India with golden coasts that stretch along the Arabian Sea. Known as a relaxed paradise for surfers, Goa is the ideal place to travel like a backpacker. Some of the best beach locations include Vagator, Ozran, Chapora, and Mandrem, where you can enjoy a day of relaxation, sunbathing, and water activities.
If you want some culture and history, visit Goa’s historic center. Called “Velha Goa”, it explores the charming streets lined with ancient Portuguese colonial buildings. You can learn about the history of Goa as the capital of Portuguese India from the 16th century until its abandonment in the 18th century.
Varanasi – Varanasi is a busy city in northern India. It is considered the spiritual capital of the country. It has over 2000 temples, including the Golden Temple which is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The city also attracts Hindu pilgrims who bathe in the sacred waters of the Ganges river and perform funeral rites. A walk in the historic center of the city or along the banks of the Ganges river will allow you to immerse yourself in the culture and history of this fascinating place. You can immerse yourself in culture and attend a Ganga Aarti ceremony from the river banks or take a boat ride along the Ganges river, which is the best way to explore this spiritual river.
Jodhpur– Jodhpur is a city in the Thar desert. It is also known as Blue Heaven for its iconic shade of blue. This place is impressive for its color contrast. enjoy the juxtaposition of the blue of the buildings and the gold of the desert – admire all the nuances on a walking tour of the Blue City.
Jaisalmer – For something different, venture into the Jaisalmer desert. Full of history and culture, Jaisalmer was a medieval commercial center and today it is known as the “Golden City” with yellow sandstone architecture and Jaisalmer Fort – a hilltop citadel with the ornate Maharaja’s palace and richly Jain temples carved. In Jaisalmer, you can ride camels on the sand dunes and camp in the desert for the night. This is an experience to do at least once in your life, where you can relax, enjoy the surrounding environment, and observe the stars in the night.
Jaipur
Jaipur – Jaipur is the capital of the Indian state of Rajasthan and is now more commonly called the “Pink City” due to its distinctive color. From the panoramic views of the city to Nahargarh Fort, Amber Fort, and the Monkey Temple … There is an abundance of things to see and do in Jaipur. Balloon rides are also a popular activity, from which you can enjoy spectacular views of the city at dawn.
Mumbai – Finally, for the vibrations of the city, the metropolis of Mumbai has it all. Mumbai is a busy, chaotic, and overpopulated city. Definitely worth a visit just to get an idea of the bustle of India. Mumbai has famous historical sites and iconic structures, such as the Gateway of India, which overlooks the Arabian Sea.
Ciao India Tours guarantees the service of the tour guide in India educated and authorized by the Indian government, Our guides are the guarantee of giving you an unforgettable experience and they work with all responsibility and know their role in the sector well.
Tourist guide in India
The importance of tourist guides cannot be underestimated for a quality tourist experience for tourists visiting a destination. As destinations compete, it becomes increasingly important for administrators and tourism organizations to facilitate guides in carrying out their roles. This can be accomplished by creating a work environment that helps guide performance. The superior quality of working life, pride in work, safe and secure jobs, good relationships with stakeholders, and the enjoyment of their work and professionalism are some of the problems that need to be facilitated. Understandably, there must be greater communication between stakeholders and a greater appreciation of the work of a guide
Licensed tour guide in India
Licensed tour guide in India, in order to ensure a pleasant experience for the tourist, isolate them from the local environment and reduce the opportunities for social interaction between the tourist and the host Community. Therefore, the sense of place is transmitted formally rather than organically guided tourism (McIntosh and Prentice, 1999). Gurung et al. (1996) also noted that while guides can isolate and protect tourists from harm in the process, they also cut them off from a certain delight in "reality" and "authentic" experience.
Importance
Having an honest guide will assist you in having a memorable vacation. You'd be ready to enjoy every minute of the tour, plus you'll learn tons. A good guide isn't just a 'happy' one that can relay facts. He/ she is someone who knows a lot about the history and modern culture a place has
The responsible one who should take care of your security of health wealth to well informed of the spot. Only with the great guide, you'll make your trip memorable for lifelong and luxuriate in each moment you've got spent together.
Moreover, a tour guide is that the unpaid ambassador of each country who has got to step up the image of their country. This is how a guide must be good in all aspects. If you're in the hand of bad guide then the entire trip gonna be ruined so take care of choosing your travel company.
Well though an honest guide will assure great feed of data of that place/people or event, however, you'll see the planet from the tour guide’s vision and not of your own.
These days information about any place is handy from TV/books/internet and friends are extremely handy and we strongly suggest that you become your own guide and enjoy your tour by your self.
Besides its documented incontrovertible fact that even the info in museums is wrongly displayed, the same stands true just in case of tour guides where there could also be high chances of wrong information being given.
Vacation in India while Choosing the best destination for family holidays in India is certainly not an easy task. Thanks to the diversity and the multitude of options available for the most demanding travelers. There are beaches, architectural wonders, adventure, culture, and fun experiences that are essential elements of your ideal family vacation ideas. So why wait any longer?
Visit Red fort in Delhi during your vacation in India
With dozens of museums, amusement parks, countless monuments, scenic gardens, and unlimited space for fun, New Delhi is a must-visit. The capital of India definitely has a high score when we talk about destinations for a family vacation in India. New Delhi hosts three World Heritage sites that deserve to be witnesses during a family vacation here. Furthermore, Lodhi Garden is one of the best places to have picnics with children and families.
Also, you can drive a train with your children to the National Rail Museum. Or take a walk in the heritage with Salaam Baalak Trust. Bargaining while shopping at one of Delhi's many bazaars is another compelling activity. Then there is also a museum of toilets that can surely entertain you and your family. Yes, the Sulabh International Toilet Museum will surely entertain you with your family. The National Zoological Park with its vast collection of birds and animals is another place in Delhi where your family will surely appreciate it. The Kingdom of Dreams unquestionably surpasses the rest of the best places to go with children.
Rajasthan an amazing place for vacation in India
When it comes to the best family vacation destinations in India, Rajasthan is probably at the top of the charts. The "Land of the Maharajas" leaves other places behind in terms of foreign arrivals and domestic travelers. With its glorious princely past, rich cultural heritage, and mighty forts and palaces, Rajasthan is certainly one of the main tourist destinations in India. Some of the best places to visit in Rajasthan are the "pink city" Jaipur, the Ranthambore National Park, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Pushkar, and Udaipur.
Famous places for vacation in India, Taj Mahal
Home to the famous "Taj Mahal", Agra offers an exciting family trip for life. Give your family some of the funniest moments by taking a boat ride on the Yamuna River while you admire the emblematic monument. The charm of the destination suitable for children is so much that it appears on the wish list of every traveler.
In addition to the Taj Mahal, the city also boasts the Agra Fort, the Tomb of Itimad-Ud-Daulah, and much more. The Kinari Bazaar is the perfect place to satisfy your desire for shopping. Attending Mohabbat: The Taj Show is another attraction that you must include in your itinerary. Creating your own Taj Mahal will surely appeal to almost all members of your family.
A family vacation in India visit Goa
If you want to enjoy beach holidays in India, then Goa is definitely the place to be. The small Indian state is world-famous for its palm-lined beaches, lively nightlife, and festivals. Moreover, the landscape of this place makes it one of the best destinations for a family vacation. Therefore, vacationers from all over the world flock to the place every year. Tourists can relax on a beautiful beach or indulge in some exciting water sports.
The charm of the sun, sand and sea will never fail to attract you. Some of Goa's most visited beaches include Anjuna Beach, Calangute Beach and Baga Beach. Above all, Goa has amazed you with wonderful scenes. Furthermore, much of this state is still intact by the masses. So, you can spend a fantastic holiday here.
Best places for vacation in India, Munnar
Located in the Idduki district of Kerala, Munnar is a charming hill station. The hill station is famous for its natural scenic beauty, the sprawling lush farms, and the tranquil atmosphere. In fact, all of these make it a perfect place to go for a family vacation in Kerala. Furthermore, the Munnar hill station is also famous among adventure lovers.
If you're planning a summer vacation in India with your family, consider Munnar. Here, you can indulge in paragliding, trekking, jungle, boat, and bicycle safaris. Don't miss a visit to the Munnar tea factory. The excursion will familiarize you with the phases of tea making from the beginning to the end. Some of the nearby destinations from Munnar are the Eravikulam National Park, the Mattupetty Dam, the Anamudi Peak and the Tea Museum, etc.
Holidays in India visit Leh Ladakh
Ladakh is a land of high passes, Buddhist monasteries, and small hamlets. It is one of the best destinations to visit in India from April to mid-May. Both adventure and nature lovers Obviously, trying out some thrilling adventures which includes mountain biking is surely one of the best things to do in Ladakh. Lately, it is also becoming a popular destination for family holidays in India.
Being the capital, Leh is the most important place to visit in Ladakh. The city is best known for its Buddhist monuments along with monasteries. Mountain Climbing, Jeep Safari tours, trekking, Bactrian camel rides, and Yak Safaris are some of the adventures that one should definitely try out, when in Leh. The important attractions to visit in Ladakh include Khardung La, Samstanling Gompa, Leh Palace, Spituk Monastery, and Nubra Valley. Pangong Tso, where the shooting of the movie 3 Idiots took place and Tso Moriri is the two spectacular lakes that should be your bucket list if you are looking for the best family vacation destinations.
One of the best tourist destinations in the Kashmir valley, Srinagar is home to magnificent gardens and lakes. It is a charming and beautiful place and also a perfect place for summer holidays in northern India. The simple thought of Srinagar recalls the images of the Mughal gardens and the spectacular lake.
Srinagar's tourist attractions offer a positive effect on the mind, body, and soul. In Srinagar, you can go shopping and choose from a wide variety of wool, dried fruit, etc. Then, there are beautiful Mughal gardens that are a must-visit during your family vacation in Srinagar. Nishat Bagh, Chasme Shahi, and Shalimar Bagh are 3 of the most spectacular Mughal gardens that add to the charm of the already beautiful place. The Shikara tour on Lake Dal is another activity you should undertake during your family holidays in Srinagar. The temple of Shankaracharya and Hazrat Bal are the two most important religious sites that tourists love to visit.
Andaman and Nicobar paradise for beach lovers, the Andaman and Nicobar islands are happy beyond description. The beautiful archipelago offers a pool of activities for you and your family. Take your kids to cellular jail and take part in the fascinating light and sound show. Show your family the exotic marine world of Scuba Diving, Andaman is famous for.
In addition to divers, the beautiful archipelago welcomes honeymooners, vacationers, and avid travelers. Numerous attractions here are the Havelock Island, the Ross Island, the Elephant Beach, the Samudrika Naval Museum, and the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex. Sailing on azure waters, walking on the soft sands, watching the splendid sunset views, and sipping the tender coconut water. What else do you want for relaxing family holidays in India?
Looking for a vacation in India, Rishikesh is the answer
Although serene Rishikesh lures even the adventure lovers. The spiritual vibe of the town surely relaxes the mind, body, and soul. But, the gushing river challenges the daredevil in you. River rafting in Rishikesh is equally popular as the ashrams in the town. Recently, the introduction of Bungee Jumping has proven to be an icing on the cake. Therefore, adventure lovers here to feel the adrenaline rush.
The spectacular Ganga Aarti, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Laxman Jhula, the Beatles Ashram are the major attractions in Rishikesh. Titled as the ‘Yoga Capital of India’, the holy town remains thronged with travelers from all around the world. The International Yoga Festival held at the Parmarth Niketan Ashram receives the huge footfall. Indeed practicing yoga and meditation along the banks of the River Ganga can soothe the senses.
Port New Mangalore • Level of difficulties Easy • Type Not available • Price Adults € • Duration in hours 5.5 • Shore excursion code
Description
This charming fun excursion gives us the opportunity to discover the city of Mangalore, its most characteristic corners and its everyday life, aboard one of the most popular means of transport in India – a Tuk-Tuk.
What we will see
• City of Mangalore by Tuk-Tuk • Cashew nut processing facility • Rice processing facility • Local market: typical regional products • Restaurant lunch
What we will do
• After leaving the port, we get ready for this thrilling tour of the city of Mangalore by getting on an “Auto Rickshaw” also known as Tuk-Tuk, a picturesque three-wheeled taxi which is a very popular means of transport in India. • We start our Tuk-Tuk tour by visiting a cashew nut processing facility. • The processing of this type of dried fruit is considered one of the city’s main activities. • Mangalore in fact exports 75% of the coffee and cashew nuts produced in India to various countries such as the US, Canada and Europe. • We continue our tour with a rice processing facility. • Rice is a very popular ingredient and a staple food in southern India. • Most Indian dishes use rice as a base. • During our visit, we will also learn about the process starting in paddies and ending with rice production. • It is a rather simple yet interesting procedure that is worth learning about. • We will then head to the local market, where we can find different types of fish, flowers and other typical regional products. • Before going back, we have the chance to try some local cuisine with a restaurant lunch. • Afterwards, out Tuk-Tuk will take us back to the port.
New Mangalore Jain Temple Tour
Port New Mangalore • Level of difficulties Moderate • Type Nature excursion, Cultural • Price Adults € • Duration in hours 5 • Shore excursion code
Description
NEW MANGALORE JAIN TEMPLE TOUR
What we will see
• Karkala, 42 foot high Monolithic statue of Bahubali • Dr. Soan’s Farm • 1000 pillared Temple
What we will do
• The first stop would be Karkala to visit the 42 foot high Monolithic statue of Bahubali, a Jain saint, situated atop of hillock. • Later we visit Dr. Soan’s Farm – which has developed over years as a centre for innovative agriculture. We will get a chance to take a tour of the farm and see different tropical fruits and spices which they use in their diet but don’t get the chance to see as they grow on the actual plants. • Later we proceed to visit the 15th Century thousand pillared temple at Moodbidiri where it is believed that no two pillars are alike & then drive back to the pier.
New Mangalore Highlights tour
Port New Mangalore • Level of difficulties Moderate • Type Sightseeing, Cultural • Price Adults € • Duration in hours 5 • Shore Excursion
Description
This tour takes you on a visit to the city of Mangalore where you will visit the Shri Manjunatha Shiva Temple at Kadri.
What we will see
• The Shri Manjunatha Shiva Temple at Kadri • Aloysius Chapel • Kudroli Gokarnanatha Temple • Cashew Factory
What we will do
• The Shri Manjunatha Shiva Temple at Kadri is one of the ancient temple of Mangalore. It has a Bronze statue of Lord Shiva which is believed to be the oldest in South India. It has got 9 water Tanks situated above the temple level. • Further we visit Aloysius Chapel – famous for its breathtaking paintings and frescoes adorning the walls and ceilings. The Chapel was built in the year 1899-1900. The walls of the Chapel are covered with the paintings of the artist Antony Moshaini of Italy. • We move to Kudroli Gokarnanatha Temple. This is dedicated to Lord Shiva built in the Chola style. Temple has white marble flooring. • You will also visit a Cashew Factory and a local market on this tour. Upon completion of the tour, you will return to the pier to board the ship enroute a brief shopping halt.
What you need to know
• There are no professional guides in Mangalore. Guides are mainly English speaking students . • Photography not permitted in Gokaranatha Temple, St. Aloysious Churc & Kadri Temple. • Dress code at Temples – shoulder and knees should covered. No wheel chair accessibility at Temple.
Tour of Jain & Udupi (full day)
Port New Mangalore • Level of difficulties Moderate • Type Sightseeing, Cultural, Meal included • Price Adults € • Duration in hours 8 • Shore excursion code
Description
With this full day lunch included tour you will get the chance to visit the 1000 pillared temple in Moodbidri, the 42-foot monolith statue of Gomateshwara and a Hindu Temple.
What we will see
• 1000-pillared temple at Moodbidri • Karkala Gomateshwara Temple • Dr. Soans Farm for lunch • Udupi Temples
What we will do
• We start the tour with a visit to the 1000-pillared temple at Moodbidri followed by a visit to Karkala Gomateshwara Temple, where stands the 42-foot monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali, a Jain Saint. • Thereafter we visit Dr. Soans Farm for lunch. • After lunch, we proceed to Udupi, a divine shrine in the coastal region of the State of Karnataka. Situated about 60 Kms from Mangalore, it is a fairly large and upcoming town that was the sanctum of Madhvacharya, the great Sanskrit philosopher. The famous temple here has a fascinating idol of Lord Krishna which was installed by the great saint Madhvacharya and which is richly adorned with jewels. Another attraction of this temple is the ‘Kanakana Kindi’ -a small window through which Krishna is believed to have given darshan to his ardent devotee, Kanakadasa. There are 3 main temples in Udupi: Chandreshwara, Anantheshwara &Sri Krishna temple. Chandreshwara and Anatheshwara are the most ancient temples of Udupi. • Later drive back to pier.
What you need to know
• There are no professional guides in Mangalore. Guides are mainly English speaking students. • Dress code at Temples – shoulder and knees should covered. No wheel chair accessibility at Temple. • Being one of the famous pilgrimage sites in Southern India, Udupi temple may be crowded on weekends /holidays & in this case outside visit will be provided
City highlights and harbour cruise
Port Cochin • Level of difficulties Easy • Type Sightseeing, Drink included • Price Adults € • Duration in hours 5 • Shore excursion code
Description
A wonderful opportunity to visit the magical Cochin, this fishing city that attracts visitors with its small islands, the different art centers and architecture with the nuances of European and Chinese origin. And finally, a lovely cruise in the port to admire its beauty from another perspective.
What we will see
• Mattancherry • Dutch Palace • Jew Street • Jewish Synagouge • Fort Kochi • St. Francis Church • Indo-Portuguese Museum • Chinese fishing nets • Local fish market • Santa Cruz Basilica • Cruise in the Harbour • Vallarpadam, Gundu and Bolghatty islands
What we will do
• We begin our excursion to the city of Kochi with a visit to the Mattancherry district, where we can admire the Dutch Palace, built by the Portuguese in 1555 and renovated by the Dutch in 1663. • We then go down Jew Street with its typical houses and shops of various kinds, from grocers to antiques sellers. • Our next stop is in the district where the first settlers were Portuguese: Fort Kochi, home to various vestiges of the colonial era, such as St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, which houses the tombs of various important Portuguese and Dutch figures. • Continuing our visit we admire many more attractions, including the Indo-Portuguese Museum where a collection of Portuguese Christian artworks is held, the Chinese fishing nets, a powerful symbol of the centuries-old Chinese influence on this coast and the local fish market. • Towards the end of our day in Kochi we visit the Santa Cruz Basilica whose foundations were laid in 1505, again by the Portuguese. • It is now time for a truly evocative experience: at the Brunton Boatyard Hotel we will board a vessel for a cruise in the port, an opportunity to watch the fishermen at work and admire the islands of Vallarpadam, Gundu and Bolghatty, offering a glimpse of the local way of life.
What you need to know
• We recommend wearing comfortable shoes. • Dress code that is appropriate for the places of worship to be visited is recommended. • Places on this excursion are limited. We recommend booking early. • Adverse traffic conditions could alter the duration of the excursion. The streets may not be tarred. • This excursion is not recommended to guests with mobility problems. • In case of events or religious celebrations the visit of church or monuments will be done only by outside. • If closed, the Dutch Palace will be replaced by the Indo Portuguese Museum in Fort Cochin.?
Backwaters cruise (half day)
Port Cochin • Level of difficulties Easy • Type Sightseeing, Tasting • Price Adults € • Duration in hours 6 • Shore excursion code
Description
This is an opportunity not to be missed if you want to discover effortlessly the natural beauty of the backwaters of Kerala, sailing calmly along the waters of the lagoon, perhaps with a nice cool drink in hand.
What we will see
• Alappuzha • Cruise on a houseboat • The region’s lagoon, lakes and canals
What we will do
• After leaving Kochi, we travel by coach to Alappuzha, previously known as Alleppey, dubbed the Venice of the East thanks to its beautiful lagoon. • Once we arrive, we board a houseboat, a genuine “floating house” with a comfortable bedroom, bathroom, fully furnished lounge and balcony at the bow and a tailor-made kitchen at the stern. • The team, made up of the cook, the captain and the helmsman, will greet us with a cold drink. • We sail along the region’s lagoon, lakes and narrow canals on a timeless journey to discover the local way of life in the nearby districts.
What you need to know
• The coach transfer from Kochi to Alappuzha will take around an hour and a half. • The cruise will last approximately 2 hours. • The excursion duration may vary depending on traffic conditions. • You are advised to have a substantial breakfast as we will not return to the ship until the afternoon. • The boats’ capacity can vary according to availability and the number of bookings. Passengers will be embarked depending on the boat capacity. • Adverse traffic conditions could alter the duration of the excursion. The streets may not be tarred. • Do not forget to bring insect repellent. • This excursion is not recommended to guests with mobility problems.
Kerala culture: Kumbalangi village tour
Port Cochin • Level of difficulties Easy • Type Sightseeing, Nature excursion, Entertainment, Meal included • Price Adults € • Duration in ours 6.5 • Shore excursion code
Description
An excursion designed for those who love to discover new and fascinating cultures, which will make us live the experience of a delicious cruise along the waters of Kumbalangi and then it will take us to discover the traditions of this quiet and peaceful village, where the inhabitants’ survival depends only on the nature.
What we will see
• Cruise to discover local fishing techniques • Village of Kumbalangi • Everyday village activities • Lunch with local specialities • Chinese fishing nets • Kolkali performance • Rickshaw ride • Shopping at Mattancherry • Spectacular countryside with backwaters and fish farms
What we will do
• We travel from the port to the village of Kumbalangi, the starting point for our enchanting cruise, which offers an opportunity to observe the various local fishing techniques including veesuvala and padal. • After leaving the boat we head for the village, where we are divided into small groups to watch the locals going about their day to day business: catching crabs and fish, preparing coconut milk punch, processing shellfish and coconut fibres, weaving rugs and oola madayal (special coconut leaves woven to create a roof covering), and making fishing nets. • For lunch we enjoy local specialities in an open-air area with a view of the Chinese fishing nets resting on the surface of the water. We can see the way these nets are used and how the fishing system known as papu mari works. • Such an exciting day would not be complete without a Kolkali performance, a traditional dance in which the dancers move in a circle, singing and dancing and tapping each other with sticks. • And that is not all: after the performance we enjoy a brief rickshaw ride through the narrow streets of the village • Our trip has come to an end and we return to Kochi, travelling through spectacular countryside with backwaters and fish farms on either side of the road.
What you need to know
• We recommend wearing comfortable shoes. • Places on this excursion are limited. We recommend booking early. • Adverse traffic conditions could alter the duration of the excursion. The streets may not be tarred. • This excursion is not recommended to guests with mobility problems. • The trip to Kumbalangi will take place on boat and will last approximately 1h. • Do not forget to bring insect repellent.?
