The inside track – India tour review

Holiday Director Marsha Kargili was thrilled to be given the chance to escort a Just You tour to India.

“I have been working as a Holiday Director for over 19 years, and up until a few years ago, it had always been my dream to travel to India. My Grandad was born in Mumbai and my Dad was Anglo-Indian, so I have always felt a personal connection to this exotic land. So, imagine how excited I was when Just You asked me to escort the Spirit of India tour!

I love everything about this wonderful country, the colour and life on the streets, the melting pot of different religions, the abundance of festivals, the food, and the warmth of the local people. Every time I visit, I discover something new. The road journeys are always entertaining and of course, I love the weddings – yes, believe it or not, my groups and I have been invited to one or two!

India is a country full of so many amazing highlights, it’s hard to know where to begin, but for most people, the Taj Mahal is a must-see. It’s absolutely breathtaking and combines architecture from all corners of the empire. Apparently, 22,000 labourers, painters, stonecutters and embroidery artists took more than 17 years to complete this magnificent mausoleum – and I love working with our Local Guides to brings its history to life for our groups.

Another highlight is the state of Rajasthan, where we visit Ranthambore National Park and go in search of Bengal Tigers, and their cubs, if we are really lucky!

Jaipur, also known as the ‘pink city’ is one of my favourite places. Yes, pink is my favourite colour, but my groups always enjoy it here too. A tuk-tuk ride is a must! Varanasi is another place we visit, and words really cannot describe how it feels to experience this incredible city. It’s a colourful place, deeply spiritual and the streets are full of life. Taking an early morning cruise on the Ganges in Varanasi is an experience many people tell me they will never forget.

For me personally, the Golden Temple in Amritsar is an unmissable highlight. It is one of the most humbling and divine places in India. It is home to the world’s largest kitchen, which feeds 50,000 people in an average day and up to 100,000 during festivals and special occasions. Everyone is welcome, regardless of their religion or social status, and they sit together as equals on the ground, eating the same food. From the moment you enter the Golden Temple, you feel a sense of calmness and serenity.

I urge you all to visit India, live it, breathe it and feel it. Only then will you understand why it earnt its moniker, "Incredible India.”

Feeling inspired? Take a look at all our India solo guided holidays