Passage Through India

As they say in India “the guest is God”. This welcoming ethos is one of the country's defining characteristics. As such, the best way to enhance your knowledge of this unique destination is through the locals. Hear stories and learn traditions not available in any guidebook as part of your luxury private tour in India. 

Explore the different cultural districts of Mumbai with their distinct visual identities and heritage structures. From the Thieves Market to unseen jewellery collections, uncover the cultural spectrum of India's largest city as you meet people from high society to humble spice merchants. The city's colonial past is reflected in local art and architecture.

For a more in-depth exploration of Indian art and culture, we can arrange a private Taj Mahal experience for you in Agra. Here we will introduce you to the palace’s very own expert art curator who will take you on an exclusive tour to view the much-coveted private art collection. 

Perhaps visit the People's Museum in Amritsar for a poignant retelling of the Partition and how it affected migration, resettlement and the rebuilding of lives. Near the Wagah border you can witness the colourful and emotionally charged Beating Retreat Ceremony with exclusive seating. Crowds gather in India and Pakistan as both militaries carry out their parades in perfect synchronisation. The iron gates of the border are opened and the flags of the two countries are lowered as the sunsets. 

The temple within the Harmandir Sahib complex is the most important pilgrimage site of Sikhism. The chants that continuously emanate from this golden shrine create a tangible spirituality. Join the evening Palki Ceremony, where worshippers form a line to help carry the Holy Book to the sanctum where it rests overnight. The Sikhs are incredibly welcoming and eager to share conversation and wisdom to crown your luxury private tour of India. 

To experience rural India, head to Shimla in the Himalayan foothills. You will soon see how snow-capped mountains, green pastures and a pleasant climate made this a favourite retreat for the British during Crown rule. Visit the summer cottage of the Maharaja of Kapurthala for a meal with the Lady of the House. For a heritage perspective, we'd propose a walk with an author and historian to discover the imperial and exotic features of the area that inspired many, including Rudyard Kipling. 

The wild Himalayan mountains of Ladakh offer the opportunity for a thrilling private Indian tiger safari. Discover first-hand how tigers thrive in their natural snow-laden habitat and follow the tracks of the mystical snow leopards as they roam freely among sacred spots with minimal tourist presence. 

India is undeniably vast and varied. Whatever your desires, we will handpick treasures that inform and enlighten your senses in every way possible. Simply embrace the confounding and expect the unexpected.