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Ampersand Travel’s North India City Guide
Colourful and captivating, North India is a region equally rich in history, culture and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in exploring its vibrant cities, visiting spiritual sites or trekking in the Himalayan foothills, there's something for every type of traveller. Below we’ve shared a city guide to help you make the most of your journey through North India…
Agra is home to the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and the ultimate monument to love. Other sights include Agra Fort, Itmad-ud-Daulah’s tomb (also known as the Baby Taj), and the red sandstone city of Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site just an hour’s drive away.
Amritsar is the spiritual and cultural centre of the Sikh religion and home to the breathtaking Golden Temple, a gilded shrine that draws thousands of pilgrims every day. Whilst you’re here, we highly recommend making the 30km journey to the Wagah border, where India and Pakistan perform the daily flag-lowering ceremony every evening.
Situated on the Hooghli River, Calcutta is one of India’s largest and most unusual cities, renowned for its colonial architecture, vibrant festivals and rich literary and artistic heritage. Travel through history as you visit the Victoria Memorial, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Indian Museum, which is home to a fine collection of Indian art.
India’s bustling capital is jam-packed with historical sites, iconic Mughal architecture, great shopping - whether you’re looking for markets down Old Delhi’s winding streets or luxury brands in sparkling malls - fabulous bars and restaurants and a thriving nightlife. Explore the historic Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb in New Delhi or take a rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Old Delhi to indulge in street food delights.
Set in the Himalayan foothills of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamsala literally means “a spiritual dwelling” and is one of the 80 hill stations established by the British between 1815 and 1847. Surrounded by mountains and deodar forests, the town is separated into Upper and Lower Dharamsala. The Tsuglagkhang Complex in Upper Dharamsala is the largest Tibetan temple outside of Tibet and is the home of the Dalai Lama in exile, making it a major site for visiting pilgrims, monks and tourists.
Known as the Pink City due to its trademark building colour, Jaipur is the capital and largest city of Rajasthan. Home to the photogenic Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), City Palace, Patrika Gate and Amber Fort, this buzzing yet elegant historic city offers everything from magnificent desert views and grand havelis to luxury hotels and some of India’s best bazaars.
Commonly referred to as the “yoga capital of the world”, Rishikesh is one of the major Hindu pilgrimage sites in northern India. Nestled in the Himalayan foothills and located right on the banks of the Ganges River, visitors can explore the many temples and ashrams, practice yoga and meditation, enjoy spa treatments, take a dip in the holy river or go hiking in the surrounding hills. In recent times, it has also become popular for adventure sports such as white water rafting, bungee jumping and canoeing.
Immerse yourself in spirituality in India’s holiest city and one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Sitting on the banks of the Ganges River, the ghats (stone steps that lead down to the water) are an incredible sight, particularly at sunrise when thousands of pilgrims bathe in the spiritually cleansing waters, or at dusk when sadhu’s (holy men) and Hindu priests attend the daily prayer ceremony (Ganga Aarti) to the soundtrack of clanging cymbals and hypnotic music.
With its diverse landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality, North India promises an unforgettable journey for every traveller. Below we’ve picked out a few highly-recommended itineraries, but please do remember that all of our tours are tailor-made for each client. We are more than happy to share our travel tips to fit your needs and interests, as well as advise on the best times to visit India, especially during special festivals and events.
Suggested Itineraries
A Perfect Introduction to North India
Grand Tour of North India… Our Favourite Luxury India Holiday
Holy Cities & Sacred Rivers of North India
Himalayan Odyssey… North India’s Finest Monasteries, Temples & Spas
