India at a glance

Discover the real India and unwind on the serene beaches of Goa, where vibrant sunsets and golden sands await. Dive into the crystal clear waters to explore some of the best snorkelling spots in Asia, or take a day trip on a private yacht to cruise along the breathtaking coastline, soaking in the spectacular views.

Destination Profile

There is a perfect package for every taste and budget. Whether it's a family adventure or a romantic escape you're after, enjoy unbeatable value with Olympic Holidays' great prices and exclusive low deposit offers for your 2025 holiday in India.

India is a vibrant destination, celebrated for its rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the towering Himalayas to the beaches of Goa, the country offers something for every visitor.

Iconic landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, ancient temples, and cities like Delhi and Mumbai showcase a blend of tradition and modernity.

Renowned for its bold cuisine and spiritual heritage, India offers temples and ashrams for a peaceful retreat. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, India promises an enriching experience for all.

Things to Do

Taj Mahal: Visit the Taj Mahal in Agra, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This stunning marble structure, built as a symbol of eternal love, is a must-see for every traveller.

Himalayas: Experience the thrill of trekking in the majestic Himalayas, with popular routes in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Leh-Ladakh. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, the breathtaking views and peaceful surroundings will leave you in awe.

Jaipur: Dive into the rich history of Jaipur, also known as the "Pink City." Explore grand sites like Amber Fort, impressive palaces, and lively bazaars full of vibrant textiles and handicrafts, offering a taste of royal Rajasthan.

Goa’s Beaches: Relax on the golden sands of Goa’s beaches, where you can sunbathe, try water sports. Goa’s laidback vibe offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Indian Cuisine: Taste the diverse flavours of Indian cuisine, from street food to regional specialties. Delight in rich curries, biryanis, local snacks and desserts. 

Things to See

Admire the Taj Mahal: Marvel at its iconic white marble architecture and intricate inlay work.

Mughal Gardens & Museum: Explore the symmetrical gardens and visit the Taj Museum for insights into its history and design.

Trekking in Himachal Pradesh: Take scenic treks with views of snowcapped peaks and lush valleys.

Leh Ladakh Adventures: Explore high altitude landscapes like Pangong Lake and Markha Valley Trek for a rugged experience.

Camping & Stargazing: Camp under the stars in tranquil mountain settings, experiencing the vast, clear night sky.

Amber Fort: Explore this grand hilltop fort, with its stunning courtyards, Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), and panoramic views.

City Palace: Visit the royal residence featuring a blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture, now home to museums and courtyards.

Jantar Mantar: Discover the astronomical instruments at this UNESCO World Heritage observatory, built to study celestial bodies.

Bazaars: Shop in vibrant markets like Johari Bazaar for exquisite textiles, and traditional handicrafts.

Popular Beaches: Relax on beaches like Baga, Anjuna and Vagator, famous for their golden sands and relaxed vibe.

Water Sports: Enjoy parasailing, jet skiing, and windsurfing on the calm waters of Palolem and Baga beaches.

Nightlife & Parties: Experience Goa’s lively nightlife with beach clubs and full moon parties

Old Goa: Visit the UNESCO listed churches and cathedrals, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral, for insight into Goa’s colonial past.

Street Food: Taste pani puri, samosas and bhel puri for a burst of local flavours in cities like Delhi and Mumbai.

Regional Dishes: Enjoy dosa and idli in the South, pav bhaji in Mumbai, and tandoori meats in Punjab.

Traditional Thali & Desserts: Savour a thali platter with a variety of curries, rice, and bread. Indulge in sweet treats like jalebi, rasgulla, and kulfi.

Things To Do

Make your Goa holidays extra special by booking some of our great excursions, places are limited so reserve your place at your Welcome Meeting or contact your holiday representative to avoid disappointment.

Indiana Falls: A visit to India's second highest waterfall, a 603 metre fall of water into a pool perfect for swimming and the opportunity to spot some cheeky monkeys on the way. Take a refreshing swim in the cooling waters before enjoying a selection of authentic Goan cuisine. Afterwards visit the gorgeous Ganesh temple and admire the beautiful natural surroundings.

Some Like it Hot: A great way to see all the highlights of Goa in just one day with a trip to Goa's most visited temple, cathedral, a spice plantation, enjoy lunch on a banana plate and a chance to haggle for all the bargains in the capital City of Panjim.

Magical South: Get a chance to visit the Holy Spirit Church, known as the largest and most beautiful church in Salcete. Explore the Gandhi Market, full of wonderful goods and food stalls that should not be missed. Visit a famous distillery and then have lunch at the 213 year old Palacio Do Deao. Explore outstanding architecture and lush gardens. 

Forts & Bargains: Buckle up and get ready to explore the famous forts of Goa. Become immersed in Portuguese history by visiting the largest and best-preserved bastion in Goa as well as the oldest lighthouse of its kind in Asia. Fuel up with a Goan meal at a traditional Goan restaurant and then proceed to the liveliest market in Goa, Anjuna Flea Market, where you can try your hand at haggling for a great bargain.

Wildernest: Enter a world you've never seen before. Rest in a charming cottage with stunning forest views by an infinity pool before embarking on a fantastic hike into paradise. Trails designed for various age groups offer adventure and excitement at every step. Back at the cottages enjoy a decadent dinner after some entertainment such as folk dancing or wildlife documentary films. Enjoy bird watching, waterfall exploration or jungle treks the following day before returning to your hotel.

Castaway: Enjoy a drive through beautiful villages until you arrive to a beautiful untouched beach bordered by thick forests full of gorgeous birdlife. Settle into a luxurious self-contained tent where you will be served lunch and are free to relax on the isolated beach where you can try to spot some dolphins. Tea and biscuits are served in the evening followed by a few games on the beach before sunset. Enjoy a BBQ dinner with a campfire from where you can stargaze. After a full night's rest, laze on the beach and try to spot dolphins before returning to your hotel.

Wind in the Willows: A truly unique opportunity to spend the night aboard a traditional house boat and experience the beautiful Goan countryside whilst floating along the backwaters. The boat has bedrooms with queen sized beds, toilets and showers. You can enjoy resting out on an open deck dining area or sitting area with arm chairs and coffee tables. Observe local fishermen and bakers at work. Relax with a drink while viewing spectacular temples and churches built centuries ago. Try to catch your own fish, if you're lucky you will get your own fish cooked by the boat's personal chef and served with a sumptuous dinner. Awake to a wonderful sunrise on the water before enjoying a farewell lunch onboard.

Things To See

The Lost World: An excursion full of amazing surprises. Embark on one of India's most spectacular train journeys through the western Ghats. Pass by untouched rural villages, rock cut tunnels wet with spring water and the surrounding forest which mimics imagery of the Amazon rainforest. The train also passes over the famed Dudhsagar waterfall. Enjoy sightseeing in Hampi and explore delightful temples, elephant stables, palace areas, and a panoramic view and sunset at Malyavanta Hill.

Panaji: The capital of Goa and headquarters of North Goa District, a small and charming city on the left bank of silvery Mandovi River, with beautiful red-roofed houses, built in Latin style, also boasts many modern houses, well laid gardens, statues and avenues lined with Gulmohar, Acacia and other trees. Enchanting panorama unfolds from atop Altinho (HillTop).

Vasco Da Gama: A modern, well laid out city close to Mormugao Harbour which has beautiful and extensive avenues. The air terminus of Goa at Dabolim lies on the outskirts of the city. It is also the railway terminus for passenger service on the South Central Railway.

Where to Stay India

Goa

Goa

Goa offers beautiful beaches, fascinating historic sites and a warm welcome from the laid-back charm of its people. Book your Holiday

Climate

India has a varied climate, from tropical in the south to temperate in the north. It experiences three main seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter. Monsoon rains are crucial for agriculture, and temperatures can vary greatly across different regions.

Eating

From bustling street food stalls to high-end restaurants, India offers an unparalleled culinary journey that reflects its rich diversity. Each region has its own distinct flavours, with dishes that range from aromatic curries in the North to seafood delicacies in the South. Meat lovers will enjoy a wide range of biryanis, tandoori meats, and kebabs, while vegetarians can indulge in hearty lentil-based dals, fresh vegetable curries, and flavorful rice dishes. The Indian love for spices brings bold flavors to every meal, from the creamy butter chicken to the tangy chole (chickpea curry). Don’t miss out on street snacks like pani puri, samosas, and vada pav—they are a vital part of the Indian food experience.

The Indian dining experience is not just about food; it’s about the atmosphere. Visit a local dhaba (roadside eatery) for a casual, yet authentic meal, or dine at a traditional restaurant where a thali (platter) offers a variety of dishes to sample. In the evening, you can head to a pukka restaurant or a trendy rooftop café to enjoy dinner with stunning views.

As for nightlife, India is home to a lively scene that varies by region. In cities like Mumbai and Delhi, you’ll find an exciting blend of clubs, bars, and live music venues, often with a mix of Bollywood tunes and international hits. Goa is famous for its beach parties and vibrant nightclubs, where you can dance the night away. Many places also host traditional folk music and dance performances, providing a glimpse into the country’s cultural heritage. From laid-back beach shacks in the South to trendy urban bars in the North, India's nightlife scene offers something for everyone.

Shopping

Shopping in India is an exciting experience, offering a variety of unique handicrafts and regional specialties. Traditional markets, known as bazaars, are filled with colourful textiles, jewellery, spices, and intricate woodwork. It's common to haggle over prices, especially for items like carpets, sarees, and brassware. You’ll also find leather goods, pottery, and locally made fashion items. Each region has its own distinct offerings, making shopping a fun way to explore India's cultural diversity.

Transport

Buses: India has an extensive and affordable bus network for both intercity and local travel. Long distance buses vary in comfort, with options ranging from basic to luxury coaches. Many major routes are serviced by private and government operated buses. In cities, local buses are a common way to get around, though they can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis: Taxis are widely available in cities and tourist areas, with metered fares in most places. In some regions, it's common to negotiate a flat fare in advance. Auto rickshaws, a smaller, three wheeled taxi, are also a popular and affordable mode of transport for short trips.

Trains: India boasts one of the largest rail networks in the world, offering a range of options from basic sleeper cars to air-conditioned coaches. Train travel is a scenic and popular way to explore the country, especially for long-distance journeys. Major cities also have metro systems, like Delhi and Mumbai, providing efficient urban transportation.

Car and motorbike hire: Renting a car or motorbike in India is possible, but you must be over 18 and have a valid driving license. In some places, you'll need an International Driving Permit. Be aware that driving conditions can be chaotic, and local traffic rules may differ. Renting vehicles is most common in tourist areas, and fuel prices are relatively high.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the currency in India?

The currency in India is the Indian rupee (INR). £1 (GBP) is equal to about 111 INR.

When is the rainy season in India?

June, July and August in India are considered rainy or monsoon season.

 There are pros and cons to travelling to India during the wettest months. There will be fewer crowds, but it will not be a good time to go to the beach.

Is India expensive?

English tourists can get amazing value when travelling through India as the pound is much stronger than the rupee. Food, taxis and ticketed attractions are all very affordable. The average price of a pint of beer is less than £1.

Do UK citizens need a visa to go to India?

Yes, most tourists will require an e-visa before arriving in India. Read more about the entry requirements here.