Experience the magic and madness of India
Guided tours tailored for you
India is calling!
India is an amazing place with an incredible diversity of histories, cultures, food, religions and people.
It's loud. Quiet. Beautiful. Chaotic. Ancient. Modern. Inspiring. Frustrating. Spiritual. Overwhelming.
Sometimes all before breakfast.
It's a country that challenges your senses, changes your perspective and somehow finds a way into your heart.
We specialise in small tours for people who want to see the real magic and madness of India with plenty of comfort along the
way. So if you are ready for a new experience that will create memories for a lifetime, then come join the fun!
Join our 2027 "Best of India" Tour!
DATES:
24 February to 8 March 2027
DESTINATIONS:
Mumbai - Varanasi - Delhi - Agra - Jaipur - Pushkar - Udaipur
Experience India at its finest.
Meet the beautiful people and see the most impressive sites of the many different races and civilisations that have all left their mark on India.
Eat incredible food at some of the best restaurants in the country.
Lose yourself in the thrilling rhythms of Mumbai, birthplace of Bollywood and the place Indians go to make their dreams come true.
Get in touch with your soul amongst the temples and ancient laneways on the banks of the Ganges in the City of Light Varanasi, the home of Hinduism and Buddhism.
Walk the laneways of historic Old Delhi's Chandni Chowk Bazaar, home to one of Asia’s largest spice markets and a world of unique Indian sites, smells and sounds.
Tour the boulevards of New Delhi, filled with museums and monuments to the recent and ancient history of India.
Be moved by the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.
Explore the laneways and bazaars of the Pink City of Jaipur and its architectural masterpieces of the Amber Fort and City Palace.
Take a breath and taste the charms of small town India in the holy village of Pushkar.
Relax in Udaipur, the Venice of India with it’s beautiful lakes and palaces in the Rajasthani mountains.
Contact us now!
Check out our FAQs and then call Sam on 0488 270 434 to chat all things India anytime!
2027 Tour Details
Inclusions
⦁ 12 nights accommodation (3/4/5 star boutique Indian hotels)
⦁ All domestic transportation and transfers, including 4 internal flights, taxis, private cars, buses, rickshaws and trains.
⦁ Experienced Australian guide travelling with you everyday
⦁ All breakfasts and lunches
⦁ All sightseeing and entrance fees with local guides for all major sites
⦁ All tips, bribes, donations and beggar’s alms
Exclusions
⦁ International flights and insurance
⦁ Dinner and drinks
⦁ Gifts, souvenirs and treats along the way.
What is the cost?
Total cost is $3,800 per person on a twin share basis.
* We have a 5 star hotels all the way option which is $5,900 per person
Dates to remember
If you want to join the adventure please pay a $1,000 deposit per person by 30 October 2026 to secure your spots.
Friends and family most welcome to come along. We take all ages.
Best time to visit India
To see the real India in the most agreeable weather and avoid the tourist crush, the best months for travelling are February/March and October/November.
Due to the heat and monsoon, April to September can be challenging times to travel.
December/January are the winter months so the locals head inside and American and European tourists fill the streets.
Out tours are always early March and late October - the weather is fine and the people are out and about and in good spirits!
Where will we stay?
We have handpicked a mix of heritage gems and boutique hideaways in excellent locations. Some are quirky, some luxurious, all rich in character and personal service.
These are not boring western style hotels. That is intentional. These are family run places in great locations with unique interiors,and long histories of serving the needs of travellers from across the world.
They have been chosen for their locations, charm, comfort and sense of peace.
Each stay is a memorable part of the journey - authentic, welcoming and unique.
If five star is a must then we can cater to all your needs. India has some amazing hotels.
What will we do?
Every day includes:
- an early morning walk for those interested
- walking tours of famous palaces, museums, forts, famous bazaars, artisan stores and more.
- meeting locals from various parts of Indian society. Learning about their day to day lives and how the madness actually all makes sense.
- beautiful lunches and street food delights
- amazing dinners and a few special sunset drinks along the way in unique locations
- a comfy bed in a special hotel for some much needed rest!
- every day has a plan but we leave enough space to investigate whatever catches your eye.
Is India safe for travellers?
Absolutely. While India can be intense and sometimes the way things are done can be confusing, travelling with our small group provides a built-in supportive community. We only go to places we have personally tried before and stay with you all the way.
Cash or Credit?
While major hotels and shops in cities accept credit cards, Indians still love cash! We recommend bringing a few hundred dollars to exchange for Rupees and use for smaller purchases, local markets, and rickshaw rides.
Do I need a visa?
Most nationalities require an e-Tourist Visa. The process is online and straightforward. We provide guidance on the application process before departure.
Is health insurance mandatory?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance including unlimited cover for medical evacuation is a condition of travel with Hello India Tours. We strongly recommend you get the best cover possible, just in case.
How physically fit should I be?
We have taken people of all ages with no issues, but you do need to have full mobility. Our tours involve walking on uneven ground and navigating stairs everyday. You should be comfortable walking every day at a steady pace. We will take plenty of rests along the way.
Don't forget your comfortable walking shoes.
What is the typical group size?
We keep our groups small, typically between 6 and 10 people. This allows for a more personal experience, easier travel on local transport, and access to boutique hotels. We can cater for smaller and larger groups too. Just ask!
What do I wear?
Western dress is common in Indian cities, however locals greatly appreciate travellers respecting their way of life. As a mark of respect, modest dress is strongly encouraged. Light, full-length clothes are ideal for the weather and to avoid any unwanted attention. Whilst there will be some chances to get a bit fancy on tour, India is not the place for sporting your best clothes. Keep it simple and comfortable. We encourage you to pack light and fill your bag along the way with anything you need from the beautiful Indian and Western-style clothes on offer in the shops and markets on tour.
Is there a lot of travel?
India is vast and there is so much to see, so longer trips are necessary. We try to travel in the morning using a mix of domestic flights and private cars to minimize fatigue and maximize your exploration time. For safety reasons we don't travel at night. Flights vary from 1-2.5 hours. Driving trips range from 3-6 hours max. Our goal is to be in our next destination in time for a hearty lunch before spending the afternoon exploring.
What kind of food to expect?
Get ready for an array of delicious food from across many Indian cultures.
Over years of trial and error we have found and tested the best food experiences in India.
Ranging from five star restaurants to famous Iranian cafes and the best street food in the country.
We have catered for all kinds of food preferences and medical conditions.
Forget the old Delhi belly sterotypes.
Dive into the experience.
Real Indian food is like nothing you have had before.
Can children join the tour?
We love taking kids to India!
We have seen a holiday through India change a young person's whole outlook on life.
You are never too young or old to gain gratitude and humility. India teaches plenty of both.
Our tours are designed for all ages.
We have taken people aged from 8 to 80 with no problems at all.
What are the trip inclusions?
Inclusions
⦁ All accommodation (3/4/5 star boutique Indian hotels)
⦁ All transportation and transfers, including 4 domestic flights, taxis, rickshaws and trains.
⦁ Experienced Australian guide travelling with you everyday
⦁ All breakfasts and lunches
⦁ All sightseeing and entrance fees with local guides for all major sites
⦁ All tips, bribes, donations and beggar’s alms
What are the trip exclusions?
Exclusions
⦁ International flights and insurance
⦁ Dinner and drinks
⦁ Gifts, souvenirs and treats along the way.
We are happy to help with international flight bookings and insurance. All part of the service.
Is there a single supplement?
Yes, for solo travelers wanting their own room, a single supplement applies. If you're happy to share, we can try to pair you with another traveler of the same gender to avoid the extra cost.
Can I get a custom tour?
Yes! We specialize in small boutique group tours, but we can also organize custom private itineraries for families, friends, or specialized interest groups. Contact us to discuss your ideas.
How much cash do I need?
While your major costs are covered, we suggest budgeting for occasional snacks, treats and souvenirs. Most travelers find $30-$50 per day is plenty. ATMs are common.
How do I secure my place?
We require a $1,000 deposit from each traveller. The best hotels and flights sell fast. Once we have received your deposit we book the hotels and flights, to ensure you have the best experience possible.
FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our guided tours through India.
2027 Best of India Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Mumbai
Welcome to India! Arrive in the bustling metropolis of Mumbai.
Transfer to our boutique heritage hotel for a welcome briefing and an evening orientation walk.
Followed by a traditional Parsi dinner.
Day 2: Mumbai
Explore the "City of Dreams." Visit Asia's largest slum Dharavi, shop at the famous Crawford, Chor, Zaveeri and Mangalda Bazzaars. Walk the streets of British India in colonial Colaba and finish the day with High Tea at the Taj Hotel and an amazing dinner on the harbour.
Day 3: Varanasi
A morning flight takes us to Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world. Witness the magical evening Ganga Aarti ceremony from a private boat on the Ganges after a walking tour of the old city. Dinner on the holy river.
Day 4: Varanasi
Dawn boat ride to witness sunrise rituals on the Ganges before we launch into a tour of the city. Walk the labyrinthine laneways of the Old City, visiting hidden temples, sacred burning ghats and artisan silk factories. We may also find time to visit Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon.
Day 5: Delhi
Morning flight to the heart of India. Lunch at a local institution, followed by an afternoon skipping between the major sites like Haus Kaus, Khan Market, Dilli Haat Bazaar and Ghandi's home.
Day 6: Old & New Delhi
A day of contrasts. Rickshaw ride through the chaotic Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi and deep into the surrounding alleyways. In the afternoon, explore the grand boulevards and monuments of Lutyens' New Delhi, including the National Museum, Humayuns Tomb, Lodhi Gardens, Parliament House and India Gate. Finish the night with a sunset drink and dinner at the legendary Imperial Hotel
Day 7: Agra
Morning drive to Agra. Afternoon visit to the imposing Agra Fort. As sunset approaches, we catch our first glimpse of the Taj Mahal from across the Yamuna River. Dinner at Agra's finest restaurant, serving Royal Mughali food from centuries ago.
Day 8: Taj Mahal & Jaipur
A sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal to take in the magic of this incredible building. Later, depart for Jaipur, stopping at the perfectly preserved red sandstone ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri. Check-in to our Haveli hotel then an afternoon strolling the Pink City bazaars before a Rajasthani feast for dinner.
Day 10: Jaipur
Big morning touring the Amber Fort and City Palace then an afternoon strolling the alleyways of the Pink City Bazaars. Pending travel arrangements we may leave Jaipur early for a night in the holy village of Pushkar.
Day 11: Udaipur
A scenic drive through the mountains to Udaipur, the most romantic city in Rajasthan. Check into our lakeside heritage hotel then stroll down to the artisan stores and antique shops before sunset drinks and dinner by the lake.
Day 12: Udaipur
Tour the amazing Sun Palace complex and Jagdish Temple. Afternoon boat cruise on Lake Pichola, visiting the island palaces. Farewell dinner overlooking the lake and palace in all her glory.
Day 13: Mumbai
Final morning for souvenir shopping or a relaxing walk by the lake before afternoon transfers to the airport for your onward journey.
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Why India?
India is not one country.
It's hundreds of cultures. Dozens of languages. Thousands of years of history.
It's loud, quiet, beautiful, colourful, Chaotic, Ancient, Modern, Inspiring, Frustrating, Spiritual and Overwhelming.
It's a country that challenges your senses, changes your perspective and somehow finds a way into your heart.
Travelling through the country exposes you to so many different cultures, ways of life and amazing people.
It really is a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds and experiences that cannot be put into words.
After more than 25 years travelling through India's cities, villages, deserts, mountains and backstreets we have built lifelong friendships, discovered remarkable places and learnt that the best travel experiences rarely appear in a brochure.
Whether you join a small group tour or we help create your own personalised adventure, the goal is simple:
For you to experience the real India—with all its magic, all its madness, and plenty of comfort along the way.
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Why Hello India Tours?
These days, anyone can book a flight. The internet can find you a hotel. AI can even build you an itinerary.
But nothing beats having someone by your side to:
- guide you through the alleys and laneways of the world's great bazaars
- introduce you to the best restaurants, artisan shops and experiences
- deal with all of the touts, beggars and traders out to charm the money from your pocket
- handle all of your travel arrangements on the ground; and
- help you appreciate how colliding religions, histories and cultures make this crazy place work the way it does
That's where experience matters.
When you travel with Hello India Tours you'll enjoy:
⦁ More than 25 years of firsthand experience exploring India.
⦁ Small groups with a relaxed, flexible style of travel.
⦁ Personal guidance from a passionate traveller who genuinely knows the country.
⦁ Comfortable accommodation with plenty of character.
⦁ Experiences beyond the usual tourist trail.
⦁ Honest advice and support before and during your trip
⦁ Access to real Indians! Based on local friendships built over decades.
India doesn't have to be intimidating.
It just helps to travel with someone who knows the way.
We love to talk India anytime so please reach out and let's chat!
Tales of survival
Alan and Frances 2018
An Unforgetable Experience
We had an amazing time travelling to many citys and towns in India with
Hello India Tours.
The service provided by our knowledgleable guide Sam was simply outstanding.
The hotel and restaurant selections were superb, affording us comfort and at the same time allowing us to experience the real India.
Highly recommended!
Luke, 2019
India is a country of massive contradictions and extremes. One moment you are driving through the chaos of cities and the next you are sitting in the desert watching the sun set, seeing a caravan of camels against the horizon. So many beautiful memories and special moments.
Thanks Sam for such a life changing experience in India. I cannot imagine this trip without your expertise and guidance. A huge array of daily activities and sights that were so foreign to us but you always made us feel comfortable about the whole experience. I would not have had the understanding or appreciation of so many sites without your guidance.
Pedro, 2017
The 2017 Hello India tour was excellent. Bravo! There was little to worry about from the beginning. Visas to vaccines, travel itineraries to toiletries… the information was clearly presented in a timely manner.
The journey itself is hard to describe, I guess that is why you go. I’m sure everybody takes away something from each moment, each day and each week. A sensory overload? A sensory explosion? I’m still reeling from these interactions. I still can’t seem to define such an amazing place.
What I do know is the tour was superbly organized. The varied daily activities were always in place, the small group was informed and readied from breakfast to dinner. Sam was ready to go! I loved this aspect.
The locals were so very friendly. I never felt threatened and the group I travelled with are now friends for life. Silks, spices, jewellery, clothes and amazing food are all on the list as well! This was a fantastic and authentic hands-on experience, intense at times but well worth the effort!
“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” – Mahatma Gandhi.
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Erin and Paul, 2024
Best family holiday ever! Such an amazing experience for all of us. Thank you Sam! The kids are still talking about everything we saw. The trip has given us all so many great memories and so much to be thankful for. For those with kids we can only recommend you take this opportunity. We all ate like kings, saw incredibe sites and met amazing people. Thanks again for an unforgettable experience.
Angus, 2025
Such an amazing experience! India is crazy fun and exhausting. You have to see it to believe it. We went to so many weird and wonderful places on the trip but always felt safe. The people are so kind and friendly to Aussies. Can’t wait to go back. Thanks to Sam and all the people who helped us along the way.
Scott, 2019
Hello India’s “blended” experience plays out like it reads on the box. As I write this review from a villa in Bali where 20 staff attend to the 17 guests on a by-the-minute basis, I’m compelled to reflect on what’s missing, and here it is – soul.
The dizzying highs and epic lows of Hello India’s blended tour are what make them the Beyoncé of authentic travel. Chief guide Sam’s passion and knowledge of India ensure you will happily tick an item off the bucket list but more than likely be keen for another adventure.
Hot tip: Collect as much toilet paper as possible, including stealing it from the airplane. It is under-subscribed even in the best places and, should you not need it for personal use, it can also act as a premium barter product with fellow travellers.