Experience India intimately with over 140 small group tours (max 16 travelers). Enjoy personal attention from guides, flexibility in itineraries, and deeper cultural connections, rated by more than 1,100 small group travelers.
Age
Discounts
Duration
3 days37 days
Departures
Activities
Physical Rating
Accommodations
Simple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Comfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
Upscale 4-5 star hotels and lodges. Enjoy high-end service, refined comfort, and premium locations — ideal for travelers seeking extra indulgence.
As described the tour is full on but its so worth it to see so much. This tour really throws you into Indian history and witnessing day-to-day life was fascinating. You cover a lot of ground with some very long travel days but the sites around Rajasthan make up for it with stops always providing interest.
The hotels were great with a good mix between heritage properties and the modern facilities. Gajner Palace hotel was a particular highlight and the setting is incredible.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
New Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Ajmer
New Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Ajmer, Udaipur, Jojawar, Bikaner
Kolkata to Amritsar: A fantastic experience. The itinerary is great, taking us to 3 major and contrasting religious centres at Bodh Gaya, Varanasi and Amritsar which were fascinating and moving. As well as experiencing the post-colonial city of Kolkata and smog-ridden Delhi, with the mad traffic that characterises India, there were lesser-known, beautiful or interesting places such as Sarnath and Fatepur Sikri. The chanting monks at Bodh Gaya were extraordinary, the Taj was of course stunning (even a second time around, for me) and Shimla was an oasis of green and stunning views, even without snow and with the roads crammed full of Christmas holiday visitors.
Our guide Raj was highly experienced, entertaining and informative. He's great at dealing with last minute changes (e.g. the President of Sri Lanka suddenly arriving at Bodh Gaya so we had to visit the temple much earlier in the morning, which was a shock after a late arrival the previous night! - But: sunrise and cool temps.). Raj did sometimes stride ahead too fast, so stopping to take a photo risked losing the group, especially in crowds, but otherwise he looked after us extremely well and with great kindness.
The tour is very full-on, with long travel days. I was expecting the trains to've been upgraded since I was last in India 15 years ago, but no... seating was uncomfortable, the toilets horrible and most of us felt we could have done without the overnight train, 'experience' or not. It was a relief when a journey was in a minibus. Our drivers in the various locations were pleasant and efficient.
The hotels were generally comfortable and service always with a smile, though the one in Bodh Gaya was grubby. The disappointing hotel was in Delhi, which was a charmless, Travelodge-style place, clean but with no nice public spaces and no restaurant so we had to go next door to a grotty place for breakfast. They couldn't even do my laundry in 24 hours (in a city of 23million people with every service imaginable... really?). I felt Explore could've found us somewhere much better for very little extra cost.
But these are small things. Overall, it was a wonderful trip and I'd recommend it highly. It really gives a feel for India in all its variety and wonder. Five stars.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Sleeper Train, Lodge
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Amritsar, Kolkata, Shimla, Bodh
Amritsar, Kolkata, Shimla, Bodh Gaya, Varanasi, Agra, New Delhi
A wonderful mix of culture, wildlife and relaxation in the beautiful tropical South of India. led by an excellent guide.
Would definitely recommd this trip.
City sightseeingBeachCruise
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Immerse yourself in the kaleidoscopic world of Rajasthan with this 15-day "Classic Rajasthan" tour, perfect for travelers eager to experience India’s grand forts, opulent palaces, and bustling markets. Start and end in New Delhi, weaving through Jaipur, Pushkar, and shimmering lakeside towns with the guidance of a local expert.
Dive into the stories of Maharajahs, search for elusive Bengal tigers, and enjoy a shared meal with a family in Pushkar. Spend a night under the desert stars and soak up the vibrant colors and sounds of everyday life. A highlight for many is ticking off a Wonder of the World, all while traveling with a small, like-minded group.
The USP? This tour package is designed for deep immersion—blending architectural marvels, wildlife encounters, and authentic local interactions. For those seeking India’s rich history and living culture in one seamless adventure, Rajasthan awaits.
Art and architecture
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Tent
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
New Delhi, Bijaipur, Rajasthan
New Delhi, Bijaipur, Rajasthan, Udaipur, Pushkar, Agra, Madhogarh, Rajasthan, Jaipur, Ranthambhore National Park, Bundi, Paangarh, Rajasthan
This trip is a great way to pack a lot in, with a limited amount of time. The sights do not disappoint and even though it’s been 10 years since we both last visited India, the love affair continues! A special mention goes to our wonderful guide, Neha. Unflappable, kind & a superb ambassador for her crazy, colourful country. We were blessed with a fantastic group, all taking in what India has to offer in our varied strides.
I would probably give the Motor Museum a miss at the end of the tour and replace with a bit more of Delhi (India Gate perhaps?) But just a mild criticism of a great week in a beautiful & vibrant country.
Rickshaw, cycle or local transport tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Unleash your curiosity on the "Indian Getaway," an 11-day small group tour that whisks you from Delhi’s vibrant chaos to the spiritual heart of Varanasi and the regal grandeur of Jaipur. Perfect for those craving cultural depth and local insight, this journey combines guided highlights—like the Taj Mahal, a Ganges boat trip, and a 16th-century heritage stay—with the freedom for independent exploration. The moderate activity level suits adventurous travelers ready to dive into India’s sensory tapestry. The USP: a thoughtfully balanced trip that offers both unique experiences and flexibility, letting you immerse in India’s wonders at your own pace.
Getaways and short breaks
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Fantastic trip. It is very full on....Explore warn you. One hotel was substandard....Explore will not be using it on next trip. Loved the fact we were in non-touristy areas. I had 2 extra nights at a beach hotel in Goa to relax.....worth doing if you can. A few train journeys which I loved (worth considering a rucksack or holder as luggage rather than suitcase). Go with an open mind and you will love it.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
