Elevate Destinations

Experts in socially responsible luxury travel. We design travel experiences that support conservation and local communities without skimping on comfort.

India

Eco-Luxury Adventures

Experience the rich history and heritage of India

India's rich and elaborate cultural history is reflected in the magnificent temples, dazzling deserts, and lively villages. Its splendor is indisputable; from the bazaars of Old Delhi, where you can shop for intriguing treasures, to the dramatic mountains of the Himalayas, where you can learn about the unique culture and history, and the myriad of vibrant textiles, which contrast against a vast desert-scape.

Numerous volunteer opportunities allow you to support local initiatives to benefit people, animals, and the land. Take part in a cultural exchange, help to conserve wildlife and tigers, or lend your hand to local development projects to give back on vacation.

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Sample Itineraries

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What our travelers are saying

  • A woman dressed in a white and gold saree with a man in a blue shirt and sunglasses. They are outdoors, surrounded by lush green plants.

    “EVERYTHING about the trip was amazing, thoughtfully planned, and perfectly orchestrated. The itinerary was perfect. This trip was life-changing! ”

    –Donna Natrajan, India

  • “I did not know how much this journey would change me. Being surrounded by beauty, witnessing all that nature has to offer and knowing that this place is so deeply connected to spirituality fed my soul so much that it overflowed. I will never forget my time in Ladakh. It is something I will cherish forever.”

    –Jessica Dolan, India

  • “Everything was seamless and yet adjustable based on our desires to explore. We did not just witness the cultural differences, we experienced and left with them ingrained in our soul. Thank you Elevate Destinations and Lana, this trip will continue to live in our lives.”

    –Shannon Plumstead, India

  • India: A group of women and men sit closely together on the floor inside a brick building, smiling at the camera. Some women wear headscarves, while others do not. The mood appears friendly and relaxed.

    “We were extremely pleased with Elevate in putting together an amazing trip to India! We had a number of specific requests outside of the usual travel plan. Dominique was unfazed, working hard to put together something that met our many needs. It’s hard to talk about the highlights – because the entire trip was so awesome – but our recommendations would be to go off the beaten path as well as seeing major sights. ”

    –Jan Goldstein and Shereen Arendt, India

  • “My trip to India was perfectly coordinated from beginning to end. As a solo traveler, I was taken care of by ground staff from beginning to end. The safari drives were amazing and filled with views of amazing animals and wildlife of all kinds including tigers! It was an excellent adventure filled with cultural experience, fantastic food, and learning.”

    –Lisa Weaver, India

  • “An amazing journey with wonderful guides and exceptional accommodations, Elevate Destinations understood our vision for this special trip and architected an adventure filled with lifelong memories.”

    –Thane Kreiner, Japan

  • “It was so inspiring to learn about the history and culture of Japan. I grew in heart, spirit and mind from the experience. The variety of experiences from the busy energy of Tokyo to the peaceful countryside. I loved meditating with a monk in the temple, the kids loved the snow monkeys, my husband loved seeing the minkas and meeting the families that lived in them.”

    –Kathy Sharpe, Japan

  • “I cannot speak highly enough of Elevate Destinations and the exceptional service they provide for international travel. They are ethical, and seamless in travel planning. Their team takes the time to understand our travel goals, preferences, and even the small details that make a big difference when you’re abroad. ”

    –Robin Giles, Indonesia

  • Three adults stand outdoors in front of trees and buildings, smiling at the camera. The person on the left wears a blue shirt, the person in the center wears yellow, and the person on the right wears black.

    “Our trip to Japan couldn’t have been better. Lana’s expert guidance allowed all of us to truly relax and enjoy the journey. I have recommended Elevate Destinations to at least a dozen friends.”

    –Laura Kurinij, Japan

  • Bhutan: A monastery with white walls and golden roofs is perched on the edge of a steep cliff, surrounded by green forested mountains under a clear blue sky.

    “The adventures and accommodations in Punakha, Thimphu and Paro were great. We particularly like the nunnery we visited, exploring Thimphu city, hiking Tiger's Nest, and tree planting. Thunder was one of the best guides we've had, and we travel a lot.”

    –Anu Menon, Bhutan

  • Japan: Snow-capped Mount Fuji rises in the background behind a forest and a calm lake, with vibrant red autumn leaves framing the top of the image against a clear blue sky.

    “We will remember Japan forever. Dominique and Emily are responsive and thoughtful. This is the sixth trip we have taken with Elevate. The only obvious question is when and where is the seventh?”

    –Robin Giles, Japan

  • Sri Lanka: Lush green tea plantations cover rolling hills, with rows of tea plants and scattered trees. Mist rises in the background, and distant hills are visible under a soft blue sky.

    “The trip to Sri Lanka was fantastic. We were pleasantly surprised with the country, the people and the different locales we visited. Great planning and organizing by you – thank you for everything. Look forward to the next adventure with you guys! ”

    –Jaytee Kanwal, Sri Lanka

Your Questions Answered

What to know about India

When is the best time to visit India?

The best time to visit India varies depending on the region. For the vibrant desert cities of Rajasthan and national parks like Panna, the ideal time is from December to March. In contrast, the dry mountains of Ladakh experience their peak season during the monsoon months, from June to September, when the rest of the country typically receives heavy rainfall.

What wildlife can I expect to see on an Indian safari?

On an Indian safari, you can expect to encounter a remarkable variety of wildlife. In the Narlai region, you might see leopards, while Panna National Park is home to nearly 60 tigers. Indian wildlife also consists of sloth bears, elephants, rhinoceroses, antelopes, deer, monkeys, and a stunning array of birds and reptiles. For the more intrepid, a search for the elusive snow leopard in the Himalayas offers a unique remote experience and can be privately arranged.

What are the best things to do in India?

Some of the best things to do in India include visiting world-famous landmarks like the Taj Mahal and ancient temples in Rajasthan. You can participate in hands-on workshops, such as block printing and cooking classes, take guided walks through historic neighborhoods, ride in eco-friendly rickshaws, and enjoy cultural performances. For nature lovers, there are opportunities to go on Indian safaris in search of Bengal Tigers, take boat rides on the Ganges or the backwaters of Kerala, and visit tea plantations in Munnar. The Himalayas are also exquisite with their snowcapped peaks, charming villages, and traditional pilgrimage trails. We also recommend getting involved with the local community by helping out in a community kitchen or learning traditional crafts. There are also numerous festivals and celebrations, such as Holi or the lesser-known Hornbill Festival.

What does a typical India itinerary look like?

We recommend that your Indian itinerary be a minimum of 10-14 days, starting in a major city such as Delhi or Chennai. Travelers often visit monumental sites, museums, and bustling markets. From there, the journey typically includes destinations such as Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal, and Jaipur, renowned for its impressive forts and local crafts. Travelers might also head to Udaipur or Cochin for a relaxing experience by the lakeside or coast. Many travelers choose whether to focus on Northern India (nicknamed the Golden Triangle) or Southern India, which offers a more laid-back coastal culture.

What makes the national parks in India unique?

India’s national parks are known for their unique wildlife and successful conservation efforts. Panna National Park, for example, has seen a resurgence in its Bengal Tiger population. Parks like Jawai and Narlai provide a unique opportunity to see leopards in the wild, often near rural communities that coexist with these magnificent animals. Many of these parks are closely linked to local cultures and landscapes, offering not only wildlife viewing but also insights into the traditions and livelihoods of nearby villages.

Why should I choose Elevate Destinations as my India travel guide?

With 20 years of experience in designing impactful itineraries, the team at Elevate Destinations is dedicated to planning your family's dream trip to India. As your personal India safari planner, we help you navigate the complexities of trip planning. By understanding your goals and preferences, we tailor your itinerary to perfectly align with your interests, ensuring that every detail is integrated into a seamless travel experience. We specialize in incorporating participation in community projects, supporting women-run enterprises, and engaging in sustainable tourism initiatives. Additionally, we are experienced in accommodating various abilities and dietary requirements. The team at Elevate Destinations creates journeys that are not only memorable but also have a profoundly positive impact on the destinations and communities our travelers visit.

What is the most popular Indian cuisine by region?

Each region in India has its own cuisine, which is as diverse as its culture. Northern India is famous for rich curries and tandoori breads; Southern India is known for dosas and spicy curries; and Rajasthan offers vegetarian thalis and popular street snacks. On your travels, you can sample regional specialties such as Malwa cuisine in Panna, Chettinad cuisine in Tamil Nadu, and traditional Rajasthani dishes in Jaipur and Jodhpur.
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