Architecture, Beaches and Culture
Vibrant cities and dazzling coastline, crumbling temples and burgeoning cities, Hindu lore and Jain ingenuity—this is only a taste of what you’ll experience on a West India tour. This is a swirling stew of the country’s finest and most enigmatic traits; a glimpse at some of the most celebrated as well as the lesser-known gems of incomparable India.
The Excitement and Cultural Heritage of Mumbai
From eclectic Gujarat to many-splendored Maharashtra, West India offers a scintillating array of experiences for the curious traveler. You can feel the pulse of India in Mumbai, the country’s commercial and cultural epicenter. From the iconic Gateway of India to Bollywood and the dhobis washing clothes at the riverside, every nook of this “Maximum City” seems to ripple with effusive energy. This colossal urban center is a must-see for any journey to this region.
Gir National Park, Aurangabad, Ellora, Ajanta and Goa
Tour West India, and you’ll experience some of the unique stories and cultures here. In Gujarat, gaze upon the fascinating architecture of Ahmedabad, search for the rare Asiatic lions and other wildlife in Gir National Park, or explore the salty desert marsh known as the Rann of Kutch, home to an UNESCO-listed Wild Ass Sanctuary. Discover Aurangabad—fleeting capital of Aurangzeb, famed emperor who jailed his own father—and explore the exquisite paintings and sculptures found in Ellora and Ajanta’s ancient cave temples. A laid-back vibe infuses Goa, the Portuguese-influenced beach haven whose gentle Indian Ocean breezes are as appealing as its 500-year history of cultural (and culinary) fusion. This is a popular destination for those inclined to taking it easy, as well as those intrigued by the fascinating cultural fusion that has taken place here over the centuries.
A tour of West India has something for virtually everyone: excitement, education and enjoyment all blissfully merge here. We invite you to peruse some of the itineraries to learn more about what this region can offer you.