Published 28th Jun. 2021
Reading time
Reading is an excellent way to get an insight into the country you're travelling to. Here are our recommendations for the five best books to read before a holiday to India...
1
Alexandra David-Neel, pocket book
With all the lightness of a storyteller, this seasoned traveller invites you to question the most serious topics of life, death and the sacred.
2
Herman Hesse, pocket book
This is a novel about Siddartha's discovery of Buddha. Herman Hesse traces a path of personal emancipation, bridges cultures, and seeks a point of convergence between humans while condemning the materialistic world and praising the life of meditation.
3
Dominique Lapierre, R. Laffont
Dominique Lapierre spent two years chronicling Calcutta from its slums. It's a bestseller that opened many Westerners' eyes to a reality they had no idea about.
4
Christophe Jaffrelot, Denis Matringue, Catherine Clementin-Ojha, Jacques Pouchepadass, Larousse
A comprehensive dictionary to understand the world's second most populous country, addressing all social, economic and religious issues.
5
Bulbul Sharma, Picquier, pocket book
A group of women are preparing a meal to honour a man who's passed away. Between cutting vegetables and cooking rice, they tell each other their family stories, from arranged marriages to the tragedy of having no children. It tells us a story about the whole of India.
Cover photo : Marion Osmont
Our eager experts have explored India from its mountainous north to its tropical south in search of the best destinations, experiences and properties. In-country, our passionate team of Concierges share a love of India and are always on hand to impart extensive knowledge of their country. Working with phenomenal local guides across the country, we tailor experiences to your specific interests, from family-friendly block printing in Jaipur to city food tours and off-the-beaten-track wildlife safaris. Whether you’d rather call a historic palace or a humble guesthouse home, we can offer your dream accommodation while in India.
ENQUIRE NOWPractical advice and inspiration for your next trip
Searching for the best safaris in India? We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re keen to track tigers in Madhya Pradesh, admire Asiatic lions in Gujarat or photograph forest eagle owls in Kerala,
15th September 2025 - India Safari & Wildlife
With their sleek, tangerine-tinged coats, piercing eyes and commanding presence, nothing beats the thrill of seeing a tiger in the wild. And where better than in India,
23rd June 2025 - India Safari & Wildlife
With the myriad pressures of the modern world, it’s no wonder that people are increasingly looking to switch off when they travel. From remote yoga retreats to digital detoxes,
25th February 2025 - India Travel Trends
Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges