Cheap Holidays to India

A bounty of colour, culture and magical sights, India holidays are top of the bucket list for many travellers. Whether you’re into yoga on the beach or want to visit the famous Taj Mahal, this vibrant holiday destination will steal your heart. The unspoilt Goan beaches are backed by skinny swaying palms while inland, waterfalls, temples and green paddy fields await. The local curries are sure to get your tastebuds tingling and the sights, sounds and spirit of this colourful nation are sure to spice up your exotic adventure. Whether you're visiting for its beautiful beaches or bustling cities, you're sure to get a warm welcome on your holidays to India.

Places to Go and Things to Do

Spiritual Sanctuary

Ashiyana is a wellness centre located in the laps of nature next to a charming old fishing village in Manderm Beach (North Goa), where holidaymakers can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the laidback eco-friendly ambiance. Yoga sessions led by the experts are designed to help you relax your body, mind, and soul and connect with your inner self. Walk out feeling refreshed and ready to explore the nearby scenic attractions.

Beach Bounty

Goa’s biggest attraction is undoubtedly its vibrant golden-sand beaches. This expansive coastline along the Arabian Sea is absolutely spectacular and each of the beaches in this city have developed their own personalities since the hippie days of the sixties. Choose from backpacker-friendly Arambol, bold Baga, palm-fringed Palolem and hippie market haven Anjuna to set down your towel and tan at. Don't leave before exploring the hidden crescent coves, where the only footprints will be the scuttling crabs and your own.

Shop at the Markets

If you’re ready for a little retail therapy, get your haggling skills dusted off and head for Anjuna market where you're sure to root out a bargain or two. Alternatively, the Saturday night markets in Arpora are well worth a visit, offering both local and Western wares, live music, plenty of food and cocktails to wash it down with.

Vibrant Vagator Beach

As the sun falls below the horizon, Vagator beach morphs into a trance heaven, where full moon parties are rife and partygoers flock from all over to dance to the latest rave tunes. Kick off your flip-flops, feel the sand between your toes and lose yourself in the music as you look out across the Arabian Sea.

Essential Information

Getting Around

Taxis and tok-toks are commonplace in India, and you will find them outside most of the tourist venues and railway stations. Negotiate fares in advance. Coach tours and private cars (with drivers) are also popular. Exploring India by hrie car is not recommended unless you’re a confident driver. If you're travelling further afield the rail network is a great way of seeing the country, including sleeper carriages. Delhi also has a metro-rail system.

Travelling by bus or car

Buses are a popular way of getting around India. Every state has its own service and travel is extremely cheap. There are also luxury and express buses, which are great for longer journeys.

You can hire a car in India with an international driving license, but road discipline, conditions and congestion mean that you may be better off leaving your driving gloves at home! Drive on the left-hand side.

Passports and Visas

As a British citizen, you must apply for a visa before you travel to India, which can be done online. Your passport should have at least 2 blank pages, and be valid for 180 days from time of entry. For more information and advice, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/india/entry-requirements or the Foreign Office at www.fco.gov.uk/en/

Health and Safety

Comprehensive travel and medical insurance is absolutely essential, to help protect you while you’re on holiday. For more info, see www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/india/health

Vaccinations

Double check the latest vaccination guidelines with your doctor before you travel. There are currently no specific jabs required for a holiday in India. Routine jabs should be up to date.