India in Full Colour
India was a treat. As a destination it offers every colour of the rainbow with hospitable people, fabulous food, some amazing hotels and wonderful sights. Care needs to be taken with the weather as it does get hot!! Choose the right time and you will be well rewarded with a wonderful experience - do go!
Our journey began in Delhi via Qantas’ direct Melbourne flight—excellent Business Class service set the tone. We spent three nights at The Imperial Delhi, a beautiful heritage hotel in the heart of the city. After settling in with a G&T in the bar, we explored Old Delhi’s colourful laneways, even getting fitted for Indian outfits ahead of a special birthday dinner at the hotel’s stunning Spice Lane restaurant—an unforgettable night.
We made time for a little shopping at Connaught Circle, relaxed by the pool, and indulged in a top-tier massage at the spa. That evening, we moved to the luxurious Oberoi New Delhi for rooftop drinks with sweeping city views.
Next stop: Amritsar, where we stayed at Taj Swarna. The highlight here was visiting the Golden Temple, a breathtaking spiritual site that draws tens of thousands daily. We were deeply moved by the temple’s community kitchens, serving up to 100,000 free meals a day—prepared entirely by volunteers. Later, we witnessed the theatrical daily border ceremony at the India-Pakistan crossing—an energetic and truly unique experience.
From there, we drove through rural India to Dharamshala, nestled in the mountains. After a long journey, we settled into Fortune Park Moksha—a peaceful retreat surrounded by pine forest and views of the snow-capped Himalayas. We explored Tibetan monasteries, visited the Dalai Lama’s town of McLeod Ganj, and soaked up the spiritual atmosphere.
A cancelled flight from Dharamshala meant a last-minute five-hour drive to Chandigarh, but we made it back to Delhi and onward to Hyderabad, known as the “City of Pearls.” We saved something special for the end: a stay at the Taj Falaknuma Palace. Arriving by horse and carriage, greeted by rose petals, and dining on the terrace overlooking the city—this was royal treatment at its finest. The Chowmahalla Palace visit and a little pearl shopping rounded out our time.
India surprised and delighted at every turn—colourful, welcoming, and filled with incredible contrasts. With thoughtful planning, the right timing, and an open heart, it’s a destination that rewards in every way.
India was a treat. As a destination it offers every colour of the rainbow with hospitable people, fabulous food, some amazing hotels and wonderful sights. Care needs to be taken with the weather as it does get hot!! Choose the right time and you will be well rewarded with a wonderful experience - do go!