Welcome

It is difficult to describe in words the experience that is India. It involves colour, shape, warmth, light - the smell of incense burning at dawn, the sun sinking behind the mountains - feelings and sensations that don't easily translate. It can be noisy and eventful, bizarre and exotic or calm, quiet and peaceful. It can be both frustratingly disappointing and breathtakingly wonderful.

Whatever it is, whatever people have already said, no one could possibly describe India as just another holiday destination. Few return without having experienced more than just a break from their usual routine. With a population of 1 billion, 15 main languages and many different religions India has often been described as more of a continent that a subcontinent. And you cannot travel in this country without being touched by the spirit and individuality of humanity and by the beauty and diversity of the landscape. All of us at Essential India Travel have lived, worked or travelled extensively in India and feel passionately about it for these reasons and more.

Essential India was established in 1997 to offer would be explorers and adventurers a different selection of holidays to choose from. The special interest holidays in this brochure attempt to combine some of the unique atmosphere of India to pursue a hobby, learn a new skill or simply enjoy a favourite pastime somewhere different. Meanwhile, you have the chance to slow down, relax, meet like minded people and let someone else worry about the travel arrangements.

Flights are not eco-friendly so please click on this link to find out how you can help to care for our planet.

Please note: For your convenience, in depth information about our holiday destinations is available by clicking on the highlighted letters (in red) throughout this website. This site is best viewed with a screen resolution of 800x600 or above.

We look forward to sharing the Essentials of India with you.