India with Newmarket Holidays – And What a Journey It Was!

After spending the last week exploring Northern India on a fantastic familiarisation trip with Newmarket Holidays, I can honestly say my camera roll is overflowing, my suitcase is full of souvenirs, and my head is still spinning from the sights, sounds and colours of this incredible country.

India is one of those destinations that you simply have to experience for yourself. No brochure, website or documentary can quite prepare you for it. It’s vibrant, chaotic, beautiful, fascinating and completely unforgettable – often all at the same time!

Our adventure began in Delhi, where the pace of life hits you the moment you arrive. Horns beep, tuk-tuks weave through traffic, street food aromas fill the air and around every corner there’s something new to discover. Amidst all this energy, Humayun’s Tomb provided a peaceful escape. Often described as the inspiration for the Taj Mahal, its stunning gardens and elegant Mughal architecture offered the perfect introduction to India’s rich history.

One of my personal highlights came early in the trip – the famous Himalayan Toy Train. After travelling to Kalka, we boarded this charming railway and slowly climbed into the foothills of the Himalayas. Forget scrolling on your phone; every window became a picture frame. Tunnels, forests, mountain villages and jaw-dropping views appeared around every bend. It was one of those journeys where the travel itself becomes the attraction.

Then came Shimla, where the cooler mountain air was a welcome change from the city heat. With its colonial buildings, scenic viewpoints and relaxed atmosphere, it almost felt like stepping into another era. The magnificent Viceregal Lodge gave us a fascinating glimpse into British India’s past, while the town itself was perfect for wandering, people-watching and enjoying the spectacular Himalayan backdrop.

If Shimla was charming, Dharamshala was simply magical. Home to the Dalai Lama and a thriving Tibetan community, it offered a completely different side of India. Prayer flags fluttered in the mountain breeze, monks quietly went about their daily routines and the surrounding Himalayan scenery was nothing short of breathtaking. The cable car ride provided views that had everyone reaching for their cameras – and then immediately realising no photo could do them justice!

The journey towards Amritsar brought even more surprises, including the impressive Kangra Fort and the remarkable Masroor Rock Cut Temple. These hidden gems are exactly the kind of places that make escorted tours so rewarding – destinations you may never discover travelling independently.

And then there was the Golden Temple.

I’ve seen countless photographs over the years, but standing there in person was something else entirely. The shimmering gold reflected in the sacred pool, the atmosphere of devotion, the music, the sense of community – it was genuinely one of the most moving travel experiences I’ve ever had. Watching the evening Palki Ceremony was incredibly special, and learning how thousands of people are fed daily through the temple’s community kitchens was equally inspiring.

Back in Delhi, we swapped mountain scenery for the organised chaos of Old Delhi. A rickshaw ride through the bustling streets was equal parts exhilarating and entertaining. At times I wasn’t entirely sure how we were avoiding the people, bikes, scooters, cows and market stalls around us – but somehow it all worked! Visits to Jama Masjid, the Red Fort and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib rounded off the trip perfectly, showcasing the extraordinary diversity that makes India so captivating.

What struck me most throughout the tour was how every destination felt completely different from the last. One day you’re travelling through Himalayan forests, the next you’re exploring ancient forts, experiencing profound spiritual sites or navigating vibrant city streets packed with life and colour.

As a travel agent, there’s nothing better than experiencing a destination firsthand, and this trip has given me a genuine insight into what clients can expect. Newmarket Holidays has created an itinerary that balances iconic sights with hidden treasures, comfortable travel with authentic experiences, and cultural immersion with plenty of memorable moments along the way.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely.

Would I go back? In a heartbeat.

India has a wonderful way of surprising you when you least expect it – and that’s exactly why I think so many travellers fall in love with it.

If India is sitting on your bucket list (or perhaps it’s just moved there after reading this!), I’d love to help you experience it for yourself. Having recently travelled the route with Newmarket Holidays, I can share first-hand advice, tips and insights to help you decide if this incredible journey is right for you.

Get in touch and let’s start planning your own Indian adventure!

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