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India

An explosion of colour, culture and cuisine

Holi Festival

Vibrant, wild and unforgettable – this is India

India is a sensory explosion — bold, vibrant and utterly unforgettable. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the sun-drenched beaches of Goa and Kerala, this is a country that lives life in full colour.

Watch the sun rise over the Taj Mahal, wander the palaces of Rajasthan, or lose yourself in the spiritual chaos of Varanasi. Indulge in food from sizzling street stalls — samosas, chaat, curries — their delicious aromas drifting through the air. Or browse dazzling shops for vibrant textiles and sparkling jewellery.

Get amongst it in the bustling madness of Mumbai, or find your calm with Ayurvedic treatments and yoga in a palm-fringed coastal retreat. India is whatever you need it to be — full-noise excitement or complete tranquillity.

Whether you’re drawn by the festivals, the flavours, the spirituality or the sheer beauty of it all, India is a holiday that will stay with you forever.

Let our India travel specialists create your perfect, personalised escape today.

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Flight time

The flight from Auckland to India takes roughly 18 hours with a stopover. It's not a short flight but India's energy will more than make up for the travel time once you get there.

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Best time to go

A great time to visit India is December to March, when dry, sunny days make exploring beaches, cities, temples, and national parks ideal. But with varied climates and year-round festivals, it's best to decide based on your regions or activities of interest.

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Time difference

India is 6.5-7.5 hours behind New Zealand depending on Daylight Saving here. Yes, that half hour is correct!

Meet our India specialists

Brigitta Moore

Brigitta Moore

House of Travel Northlink (formerly Northlands)

Nice to meet you! I love traveling with my husband, whether it's hiking the Camino de Santiago, biking through Latvia, or relaxing on beach holidays in places like Greece and Fiji. Recent highlights include cruising Norway and exploring Puglia, Italy—though I’m always guilty of overpacking! 

Brigitta

Kyla Strahl

Kyla Strahl

House of Travel Christchurch City

Kyla spent over 6 years crewing on luxury super yachts throughout the Mediterranean, Baltic, Adriatic, Caribbean, Pacific and North Seas; along with several Atlantic Ocean crossings. Moving to more adventure land travel Kyla has experienced India, South America and South Africa as a part of the whopping 57 countries she has explored!

"Whether it be cruising, OE's or travelling with a young family my first-hand knowledge will certainly be an asset when planning your winter break, European adventure, or once in a life time dream holiday!" 

Years in the industry:
No. of countries visited: 57 
Favourite place to visit: Italy
Next place on the list to visit: Plantation Island

"Life is short and the world is wide, the sooner you start exploring it, the better." - Simon Raven


Why I love travel: 

Travelling takes us out of our comfort zone and inspires us to experience new things that we otherwise wouldn't in our normal day to day lives. It enriches your life from meeting new people from all walks of life, trying new food from different corners of the world, and humbles you to appreciate the small things in life. 


My travel tips: 

  • Always have travel insurance
  • Wake up early - whether it be to see the sunrise, or to skip a queue, or get a coffee at the local café. 
  • Make a list of the things you want to experience and pre book as much as you can. 
  • Stay local with everything easily accessible on foot. 


My top 5 favourite destinations: 

  • Italy - rolling hills and crystal blue waters, stunning villages and cathedrals, amazing food and wine. 
  • South Africa - rich cultural experiences, amazing wildlife on safari, breath-taking landscapes. 
  • Croatia - stunning beaches and unbelievable landscapes from the islands in the Adriatic to the Krka National Park. 
  • Mexico - amazing food, fascinating Mayan culture, stunning beaches, and fabulous architecture from ancient temples to the colonial cathedrals. 
  • Canada - my birth land! The people, the rich forests, lakes, mountains and wildlife. 


What's in my suitcase: 

  • First Aid kit as you can never be too prepared. 
  • Travel Diary - make an effort to write down the highlights of your day, you will look back in appreciation. 
  • Sarong or thin, long scarf - will come in handy as a towel or to cover your shoulders when need be. 
  • Small change of local currency - whether it be to buy a bottle of water or a quick snack or to leave a tip. 

Kyla

Vanessa Davidson

Vanessa Davidson

House of Travel Hornby

With a passion for travel, I love making travel dreams a reality. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway in Fiji or an adventurous European river cruise, I can help you plan the perfect trip.

The expertise of a travel specialist can do wonders for your holiday preparations. Let me be that person for you.

Vanessa

Jessica Osbourn

Jessica Osbourn

House of Travel Papamoa

I have always been a lover of travel, family holidays as a child sparked my love of seeing the world. I was born in England, moving to New Zealand with my family at the age of six. Drawn to the outdoors and the natural beauty of the world, I enjoy nothing more than exploring new landscapes, immersing myself in local living or being a major tourist. Whether that’s wondering narrow streets, exploring a big city or lounging on a sun-soaked beach.

In addition to my knowledge of travel, I'm currently training to become a Contiki champ with a passion for adventure and a love of meeting new people, I am eager to help you plan your own exciting Contiki, Top Deck, G-adventures or Intrepid tour and create unforgettable memories. 

I was fortunate enough to be sent to Disneyland California and loved every aspect of its adrenaline packed adventure. It is an unforgettable trip and I cant wait to help others book their magical Disney holidays. 

With a passion for adventure and a keen eye for detail, I’m always on the lookout for hidden gems, unique experiences and trending destinations. Whether you're looking for a thrill-seeking adventure or a peaceful escape into nature, I have the drive to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

Jessica

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Best. India Holidays. Ever!

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