At Explorations Company, we’ve been designing bespoke holidays to India for decades. Life-affirming, bewildering, mesmerising – this country finds a way to get under your skin with all of its complexities and contradictions. With our handpicked expert guides and partners, we’ll take you far from the beaten path and create unique experiences that simply can’t be found anywhere else. The following itinerary is just one way for you to journey through some of the country’s enchanting locations whilst learning about meaningful grassroots initiatives that are changing the lives of local women.
Begin your adventure in Ahmedabad, visiting Gandhi Ashram where you’ll step back in time to discover Mahatma Gandhi’s living quarters, remarkably preserved as they were during the days of the freedom struggle. Explore India’s first UNESCO World Heritage City which is brimming with markets, temples, and mansions alongside Islamic, Jain and Hindu communities. You’ll have the opportunity to visit SEWA’s Gitanjali Cooperative, a pioneering NGO that trains women to use recycled materials to make stationery and supply local schools and businesses. Another remarkable highlight is the Sarkhej Roza mosque and tomb complex on the city’s outskirts – one of Ahmedabad’s most unique architectural buildings.
From Ahmedabad you’ll be driven to Dasada, stopping en route at Patan to see Rani Ki Vav (Queen’s Stepwell), an intricate stepwell dating back to the 11th century. Afterwards, there will be time to stop in Modhera to absorb the historic splendour and distinctive architectural style of the ancient Hindu Sun Temple before arriving in Dasada.
"Given the rich diversity of habitats and proximity to the Gulf of Kutch, a wide range of birds and wildlife can be found here from hyenas to desert cats and migratory birds that flock here during the winter months."
Dasada is a tiny village in the ‘Little’ Rann of Kutch. This 4,950 square kilometre saline desert is a unique landscape in the Kutch Peninsula. Famed for its endless salt pans and marshes, nomadic tribal pastoralists appear here seasonally and Gudkhurs can be found roaming the salt pans. The area now has protected status for these herds of wild ass to roam free, an iconic sight of the Little Rann at sunset. After exploring these magnificent lands, you’ll be driven to nearby villages to taste local life and culture visiting cottage craft centres.
After visiting Dasada you’ll be driven back to Ahmedabad and fly to Indore to begin your time in the holy town of Maheshwar. Your experience of this legendary destination begins with an early morning trip to the picturesque ruins of Mandu, the setting of one of the great romances of Indian history – between Sultan Baz Bahadur and his Hindu Queen Rupmati. The architectural structures are simply magnificent and inspired the master builders of the Taj Mahal centuries later.
Whilst staying in Maheshwar, you’ll have the pleasure of residing at the Ahilya Fort Hotel which we regard as one of the finest heritage hotels in India. Spend golden sunsets gazing across the expanse of the River Narmada, a sacred river described as the lifeline of Madhya Pradesh. The experience is made all the more unique by your host Prince Richard Holkar, son of the last Maharajah of Indore, and a descendant of the visionary Queen Ahilyabai Holkar. The Prince converted his home into a guest residence over twenty years ago, which today offers an enchanting experience: think a serene oasis blended with exceptional service from the welcoming staff.
One of the most memorable local experiences you will discover is a private sightseeing tour of the not-for-profit REHWA Society with an in-house guide. Started in the late 1970s by the Holkar family, it’s a remarkable success story employing women whilst reviving the ancient hand-weaving craft. Visit the weavers at work and learn how these intricately designed saris are created. After this visit, take a hand-poled boat trip along the Narmada to Baneshwar Temple, considered to be the centre of the universe, before dining by candlelight in the magical ancient garden of one of the Holkar State’s chief nobles at Boleya Chhatri.
After your unforgettable time in Maheshwar, you’ll spend the next few days embarking upon a tour of the enticing city of Kolkata. Beyond the usual tourist circuit, join old-time Kolkata residents such as a local art collector and socialite in historic Chowringhee. Learn about the city that was once at the heart of the British Empire and visit key locations from the Bengali Quarter to Mother Theresa’s home on the final part of your unforgettable adventure.
There are endless life-fulfilling experiences to discover in India. Having lived and travelled all over the country, we can elevate every moment of your time spent in this extraordinary destination. From visiting the female weavers of Maheshwar to savouring the cultural highlights of Kolkota, allow us to show you just a glimpse of an India you never dreamed possible.
