Planning a luxury trip to India… but feeling overwhelmed?
You picture yourself in an opulent palace hotel, sipping tea on a mountain terrace, or floating on a private boat in Kerala but then the stress sets in.
Will the “luxury” really match the price tag?
Can I trust the driver, the services, and the hygiene?
Will I have personalized care or just another cookie-cutter itinerary?
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
A lot of smart, seasoned travelers feel the same way, especially when it comes to navigating luxury travel in India. With so many companies claiming 5-star experiences, how do you know who really delivers?
Why picking the right luxury travel company matters
Luxury isn’t just about what you get. It’s about how you’re made to feel.
Anyone can throw together a fancy hotel, a chauffeur, and a few “curated” meals. But only a handful of companies know how to read between the lines, to anticipate your preferences, respect your pace, and make sure you feel cared for without having to ask twice.
Here’s what usually goes wrong when the company doesn’t get it:
- Your “custom itinerary” turns out to be a copy of last month’s group trip
- The driver shows up with no clue about your comfort level or schedule
- A beautiful boutique hotel… but no one warned you it has 53 stairs and no elevator
- You get sick, or something goes off-plan, and suddenly, no one’s answering the phone
Real luxury is invisible. It’s the kind where everything flows, your needs are anticipated, and you’re not stuck micromanaging your own holiday.
What I thought luxury travel was… Until I actually experienced it
A few years ago, I thought luxury meant plush sheets, candlelit dinners, and someone carrying my bags.
Do you think the same?
Nice, sure. But not life-changing.
Then I booked a trip through a company that completely flipped the script.
Here’s what happened:
They didn’t just ask, “Where do you want to go?”
They asked, “Why do you want to travel right now?”
That one question changed everything.
They built a trip around that answer, not just the destination, but the emotion behind it.
- I didn’t get hotel updates on WhatsApp, I just arrived and everything was already perfect.
- My room had almond milk in the fridge (which I casually mentioned once during planning).
- I never waited. Not for check-ins, not for guides, not for restaurant tables.
- One night, they even arranged a local family dinner in a 150-year-old haveli that wasn’t on any map.
It felt like someone had choreographed every step of my journey, and my only job was to enjoy it. That’s when I understood: True luxury is quiet. It listens. It just… works.
So, why these 10 luxury travel companies in India?
Because they get it.
These are probably not the flashiest or the most-followed brands on Instagram. They’re the ones that deliver when it actually matters, when your flight is delayed, when your stomach’s upset, when you realize you want to change your entire itinerary mid-trip.
They ask the right questions, listen closely, and create something that feels less like a package and more like a story. Your story.
Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a long-awaited family reunion, or just a much-needed escape, these are the experts who know how to show you India: in style, in comfort, and with a personal touch that stays with you long after the trip ends.
So, allow me to introduce your luxury travel companions.
You, my fellow wanderer, pack your bags, slip on your travel shoes, and don’t forget your sunglasses and hat. The world is waiting, and these companies know just how to unveil it with grace, detail, and ease.
Top 10 luxury travel companies in India that redefine the extraordinary
Where elegance meets experience, and every journey feels effortlessly yours.
After countless conversations, personal experiences, and real traveler reviews, I’ve curated this list of the top luxury travel companies in India that consistently turn wanderlust into wonder.
These aren’t just operators, they’re luxury experiential travel companies in India that truly understand what indulgence feels like when it’s done right.
Whether you’re dreaming of a Himalayan hideaway, a royal palace stay in Rajasthan, or a slow, art-filled cruise along the Ganges, these brands don’t just arrange travel, they curate memories.
These are the companies that deliver more than itineraries. They deliver:
- Invisible care
- Flawless details
- Journeys that breathe with soul
Let’s meet them.
Varanasi Excursion
You know how some trips just change you forever?
That’s exactly what Varanasi Excursion does, it doesn’t just plan your travel, it curates something deeply moving. I still remember my first sunrise on the Ganges, the calm, the chants, the scent of incense floating in the air, and it was them who made it all feel like it was meant just for me.
Founded in 2009, right in the heart of Varanasi, this isn’t your typical tour operator. This is a locally-rooted luxury travel company in India that understands the city from the inside out: its rhythm, its rituals, and its deep spiritual heartbeat.
Whether you’re walking barefoot through the ancient lanes of Kashi or sitting in silence at Bodhgaya, where the Buddha meditated, everything they plan feels deeply connected.
But their expertise doesn’t stop at Varanasi. From the palaces of Rajasthan to the monasteries of Himachal, they craft Pan-India journeys that connect you not just to places, but to meaning.
And the best part? Nothing feels rushed. Nothing feels commercial. It’s always about what you want to see, feel, and remember.
What they do best
- Ganga Aarti experiences that make your heart skip a beat
- Temple trails and heritage walks that bring history to life
- Custom tours to Ayodhya, Prayagraj, Jaipur, Mumbai, and more
- Pan-India experiences from Kerala’s backwaters to Kashmir’s alpine serenity
- Private, seamless planning with that warm, human touch
Journeys you’ll never forget
Here’s a quick look at some of their most loved tours (priced for global travelers):
- 14-Hour Spiritual Varanasi Tour (Ganga + Sarnath) – $69
- 3 Days Enchanting Varanasi Tour – $232.43
- 6 Days Kashi–Ayodhya Enlightenment Tour – $418.39
- 10 Days Golden Triangle + Khajuraho + Varanasi – $721.73
- 8 Days with Ranthambore Safari – $755.43
- Kerala Backwaters & Spice Trails in 7 Days – $697.31
- Golden Triangle + Mumbai, Goa & Varanasi – $1412.07
Why I’d recommend it to you
Because with the Varanasi Excursion, it never feels like a tour. It feels like you’re travelling with someone who gets what India really is: the silence between the bells, the taste of hot jalebi in the morning, the stories hidden in every turn of a ghat, and that rare moment when you feel this is exactly where I’m meant to be.
It’s for the kind of traveller who wants to feel, not just see.
Website and contact
🌐 varanasiexcursion.com
📞 +91 9005104999
Abercrombie & Kent
Founded: 1962
Founder: Geoffrey Kent
India Base: New Delhi
Global Presence: Operates in over 100 countries
Abercrombie & Kent (A&K) is a long-established name in high-end travel, known for its well-organized, culturally immersive trips. Originally started as a safari company in Kenya, A&K has since expanded into a global luxury travel provider with local expertise in regions like India.
In India, their itineraries are designed for travelers who value comfort, privacy, and a structured approach to exploring historical and cultural sites. Their focus is on delivering smooth, curated experiences, whether it’s a wildlife safari, spiritual retreat, or heritage trail.
India offerings at a glance
- Private, guided cultural tours and heritage walks
- Boutique hotel stays and converted palaces
- Wildlife safaris with expert naturalists
- Community-based experiences via A&K Philanthropy
- Support from local specialists throughout the trip
Popular India trips by Abercrombie & Kent
Luxury Rajasthan Discovery
A circuit through Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur with heritage hotel stays
India Wildlife Safari
Visits to Ranthambore, Bandhavgarh, or Kanha with organized safaris
Spiritual Trail
A reflective journey through Varanasi, Rishikesh, and Khajuraho
India Through the Ages
A Golden Triangle tour (Delhi–Agra–Jaipur) with a focus on history and craftsmanship
Sita Travels
Founded: 1963
Parent Company: Travel Corporation India Ltd.
Head Office: Gurugram (Delhi NCR)
Presence: India, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka
With over 60 years in the industry, Sita Travels is one of India’s most experienced Destination Management Companies (DMCs), known for crafting customized, culturally rich travel experiences across South Asia.
Their focus isn’t just on luxury, but on designing meaningful itineraries that blend heritage, comfort, and real-world exploration. Whether you’re walking along the ghats of Varanasi or staying in a royal haveli in Rajasthan, Sita Travels ensures that the experience feels authentic, never rushed or overly packaged.
India offerings at a glance
- 24/7 support from regional offices across India and South Asia
- Deep expertise in heritage, spiritual, and offbeat circuits
- Custom itineraries with local guides fluent in multiple languages
- Emphasis on responsible tourism and community engagement
Popular itineraries with Sita Travels
Soul of Varanasi
A spiritual dive into India’s holiest city with guided temple visits and river ceremonies
Rajasthan Royal Sojourn
Travel through Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur with stays in historic palaces
The Himalayas Unveiled
A peaceful retreat to Rishikesh and Dharamshala with yoga sessions and monastery walks
Golden Triangle Experience
The classic Delhi–Agra–Jaipur route enriched with curated local interactions
The Q Experiences
Headquarters: Mumbai (Suite 1202, Lodha Supremus, Lower Parel)
Founder: Vasim Shaikh
Offices: Mumbai and Pune
Accreditations: IATA-certified; member of Traveller Made, PURE, LUXPERIENCE, PATA, ILTM
The Q Experiences is a Mumbai-based luxury travel company that’s made a name for itself through highly customized, storytelling-led journeys. If you’re the kind of traveler who prefers a tailor-made experience over one-size-fits-all packages, The Q might be the perfect fit.
Their approach? They start with you, your preferences, personality, travel history, even your quirks, and build something unique from there. From polar cruises to palace retreats, every trip is designed to feel like a personal narrative.
India offerings at a glance
- Curated spiritual retreats in regions like Ladakh, Rishikesh, and Varanasi
- Bespoke heritage journeys through Rajasthan, combining forts, palaces, and boutique stays
- Access to private art galleries, museums, and cultural performances
- Wildlife and nature escapes with personalized safaris and glamping experiences
Popular itineraries from The Q
White Continent Voyage
A rare expedition to Antarctica aboard a luxury vessel with fine dining, glaciology briefings, and immersive storytelling.
India Immersion – Land of Contrasts
From the chaos of Delhi to the calm backwaters of Kerala, this tour is India in high-definition.
Jewels of Rajasthan
Palatial stays, desert safaris, and curated cultural showcases across Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur.
Himalayan Soul Search
Meditation, hiking, and silence in Ladakh, a perfect reset for mind and body.
Bout India
Founded: 2013
Headquarters: Jaipur, Rajasthan
Bout India Tours Private Limited is a luxury travel company known for its customized journeys across India and Southeast Asia. With deep local knowledge and a commitment to detail, they specialize in designing trips that reflect each traveler’s style, pace, and interests.
What makes them stand out is their high-touch, personalized planning, each itinerary is handcrafted by destination experts who’ve either lived in or explored the region extensively.
India offerings at a glance
- Fully personalized cultural and heritage tours
- Handpicked boutique hotels and luxury homestays
- Guided wildlife safaris in national parks like Ranthambore and Kaziranga
- Wellness retreats and spiritual journeys across Rishikesh, Varanasi, and Kerala
- Private chauffeurs, multilingual guides, and 24/7 local support
Popular journeys by Bout India
Golden Triangle Journey
A luxurious take on Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, featuring curated city walks, palace stays, and cultural performances.
Royal Rajasthan Circuit
Forts, heritage hotels, and the rich colors of Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer, designed for lovers of Indian royalty.
Soulful Varanasi and Beyond
Spiritual immersion through sacred rituals, boat rides on the Ganges, and optional add-ons to Khajuraho or Bodh Gaya.
Himalayan Highlands Retreat
Travel to Himachal or Uttarakhand for peaceful village stays, treks, yoga, and connection with nature.
Kerala and the Southscape
Enjoy houseboat cruises, spice trails, and coastal beauty across Kerala and South India.
Banyan Tours
Founded: 1996
Founder: Jamshyd Sethna
India Base: Gurugram (Delhi NCR)
National Presence: Offices in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Jaipur, Goa, Cochin, and Chennai
Banyan Tours is an Indian luxury travel company known for its culturally rooted, custom-designed journeys across India. With more than 25 years in the industry, Banyan Tours blends deep destination knowledge with high service standards and responsible travel practices.
Each itinerary is personalized, reflecting the traveler’s interests, whether that’s art, wildlife, history, or cuisine, while maintaining comfort, flexibility, and attention to detail. The company is also known for its reliable on-ground logistics and a strong network of local partnerships.
India offerings at a glance
- Custom itineraries with boutique accommodations and curated experiences
- Private guides for cultural explorations in cities, villages, and heritage sites
- Wildlife and Himalayan safaris with exclusive access and premium stays
- Special interest journeys (art, culinary, wellness, etc.)
- Group tours and travel planning for institutions or events
- Focus on responsible travel and community-based tourism
Popular India trips by Banyan Tours
Cultural Routes
Private journeys through Delhi, Varanasi, Rajasthan, and South India
Wildlife Expeditions
Luxury safaris in national parks like Ranthambore and Kanha
Himalayan Retreats
Treks and retreats in Ladakh or Sikkim with a spiritual focus
Art and Architecture Tours
Focused on temple trails, colonial cities, and crafts villages
Special Events Travel
High-touch travel for academic, business, and creative groups
The Ultimate Travelling Camp (TUTC)
Founded: 2013
Founders: Dhun Cordo and Rajnish Sabharwal
India Base: New Delhi
Specialization: Mobile luxury glamping and curated cultural experiences in remote destinations
The Ultimate Travelling Camp (TUTC) is India’s pioneer in mobile luxury camping. Designed for travelers who want comfort without compromising on authentic, offbeat experiences, TUTC blends five-star hospitality with raw natural beauty.
TUTC sets up seasonal camps in some of India’s most remote and culturally rich destinations, think Ladakh, the Kumbh Mela, or the jungles of Dudhwa. Their luxury tents come with plush beds, ensuite bathrooms, personal butlers, and curated itineraries. It’s a “camping” experience in name only, this is luxury travel under canvas, customized for those who want something different.
India offerings at a glance
- Fully-serviced luxury tents in remote destinations
- Cultural immersion through guided tours, local cuisine, and interactions
- Eco-conscious setups with low-impact infrastructure
- Personalized service and curated day-by-day itineraries
- Ideal for seasonal events like Kumbh Mela or unique terrain like Ladakh
Popular India trips by The Ultimate Travelling Camp
Chamba Camp, Thiksey – Ladakh
Set near the Thiksey Monastery, this camp offers views of snow-capped peaks, visits to ancient monasteries, camel rides in Nubra, and trips to Pangong Lake.
Chamba Camp, Diskit – Nubra Valley
A desert-meets-mountain setup with ATV rides, local village walks, and stargazing. Tucked between apricot orchards and sand dunes.
Kumbh Mela Camp – Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, Nashik
Temporary luxury tents during one of the world’s largest spiritual gatherings. Includes guided rituals, boat rides, Ganga Aarti views, and cultural insights.
Jaagir Lodge, Dudhwa – Uttar Pradesh
Although not a camp, this lodge near the Indo-Nepal border offers safaris in Dudhwa National Park, tribal village visits, and birdwatching, ideal for nature lovers.
Jacada Travel
Founded: 2008
Founder: Alex Malcolm
Headquarters: London, UK (with India specialists on ground)
Since 2008, Jacada Travel has specialized in creating luxury private tours that blend elegance with local authenticity. Whether you’re drawn to the Himalayas, Kerala’s backwaters, or the sacred ghats of Varanasi, every itinerary is custom-designed by a dedicated travel specialist to match your pace and preferences. Their approach is rooted in sustainability, responsible tourism, and deep cultural connection.
India offerings at a glance
- Every trip is crafted from scratch by expert travel designers, based on your interests and travel goals.
- Private guides, meaningful cultural interactions, and boutique stays that reflect the character of each place.
- From planning to your return, Jacada offers round-the-clock assistance, ensuring smooth travel at every stage.
- They partner with community-based projects and conservation-focused organizations like Wilderness Safaris and the Positive Impact Collection.
Popular India trips by Jacada Travel
Luxury Grand Tour of India
A north-to-south journey through Delhi, Rajasthan, Varanasi, and Kerala, complete with handpicked hotels and cultural deep-dives.
Spiritual North India
From Amritsar’s Golden Temple to yoga in Rishikesh and sunrise rituals in Varanasi you’ll get a soulful, slow-paced itinerary.
Indian Wildlife Adventure
Private safaris in Ranthambore, Kanha, and Bandhavgarh with luxury jungle lodges and expert naturalists.
Wellness Retreat in India
Bespoke Ayurveda, meditation, and yoga journeys in Kerala and spiritual centers across India.
Thomas Cook India
Founded: 1881
Headquarters: Mumbai, India
Parent Group: Fairfax Financial Holdings
With over 140 years of travel expertise, Thomas Cook India is one of the oldest and most trusted names in Indian tourism. From its early beginnings to becoming a household name, the company has continually evolved to offer modern travel services that combine convenience, global partnerships, and localized care.
Today, Thomas Cook India provides a full suite of offerings, from escorted international tours to personalized holidays, visa services, and forex solutions. Whether you’re planning a luxury honeymoon, a multigenerational family trip, or a spiritual retreat, their strong operational network ensures a seamless journey.
India offerings at a Glance
- Customized holidays, fixed group departures, travel insurance, foreign exchange, visa assistance, and MICE travel.
- Strong relationships with international airlines, hotel chains, and tourism boards ensure reliable, value-packed itineraries.
- An intuitive online platform with AI-powered travel assistants, real-time booking, and post-booking support.
- Serving travelers for generations with pan-India presence and global partnerships.
Popular trips by Thomas Cook India
Europe Extravaganza
France, Switzerland, and Italy in a curated guided format, ideal for first-timers and families.
Exotic Southeast Asia
A tropical mix of beaches, food, and culture across Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia.
Wonders of Australia and New Zealand
Nature, cities, and indigenous experiences in one vibrant itinerary.
USA Highlights
A coast-to-coast tour featuring major cities, national parks, and iconic attractions.
Spiritual India Tours
Pilgrimage packages for Char Dham, Shirdi, Varanasi, and other sacred destinations.
SOTC Travel limited
Founded: 1949
Founder: Originally part of Swiss-owned Kuoni Travel; now a part of Fairfax Financial
India Base: Mumbai
Global Presence: Offices across India, and outbound tours to 80+ countries
SOTC is one of India’s oldest and most trusted luxury travel companies, especially known for its curated group tours and India-friendly packages abroad. Whether it’s a European family vacation with Indian meals or a religious tour for senior citizens, SOTC brings convenience, familiarity, and dependable planning to the table.
Their travel experiences are customized for Indian preferences, from language support to vegetarian meals and guided sightseeing that fits multigenerational travelers.
India offerings at a glance
- Pre-planned group tours across India’s top destinations
- Cultural, religious, and senior-friendly travel options
- Domestic flight and hotel packages with customization
- Honeymoon and family holiday specials
- On-ground tour managers and 24/7 support
Popular India trips by SOTC Travel Limited
Char Dham Yatra
Spiritual journey covering Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath with stay and transfers
Royal Rajasthan Tour
Group itinerary through Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur with heritage hotel stays
Kerala Highlights
Backwaters, spice plantations, and houseboat stays across Kochi, Munnar, and Alleppey
Golden Triangle with Varanasi
Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and a spiritual add-on in Varanasi with guided visits
Kashmir Paradise Tour
Scenic getaway through Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam with shikara rides
Which luxury travel company in India is your perfect match?
By this time I believe you get that luxury means different things to different travelers.
For some, it’s about white-glove service and zero stress. For others, it’s about finding rare experiences in places untouched by mass tourism. And for many, it’s about comfort and meaning, for yourself, your family, and your roots.
So here’s a quick guide to help you match your travel style with the right luxury partner in India:
For total indulgence (with zero effort)
If you want every moment handled for you: flights, private cars, gourmet meals, hidden cultural access, you’ll want the experts at:
- Abercrombie & Kent or Jacada Travel – Think ultra-luxe, seamless global itineraries that feel like clockwork. Nothing goes wrong. Everything feels five-star.
- The Ultimate Travelling Camp (TUTC) – Luxury in the wild. Imagine private tents in Ladakh or Nagaland with butlers, gourmet dinners, and stargazing. It’s luxury… unplugged.
For flexibility and finesse
If you like to be involved in planning but still want smart execution on the ground, these are your go-to companies:
- The Q Experiences and Bout India – Known for highly customized itineraries where you speak to real people who get what you want and make it happen. From Italian food trails to Ladakhi retreats.
- Banyan Tours – Perfect if you like a narrative woven into your travels. It’s curated, personal, and surprisingly creative.
- Varanasi Excursion – Especially great for spiritual and cultural journeys in Varanasi and Uttar Pradesh. Deeply immersive, with 24/7 support and rare access to sacred sites, rituals, and local wisdom.
For families, elders and generational travel
Because true luxury also means ease for everyone, kids, grandparents, and all in between.
- SOTC and Thomas Cook India – They’ve mastered multi-gen travel with thoughtful hotel choices, gentle pacing, dietary customizations, and multilingual guides.
- Elefantastic – If included, they’re known for animal-friendly, kid-friendly wildlife tours that still feel luxe and enriching.
For spiritual seekers and cultural purists
Not every journey is about five-star stays, some are about five-star meaning.
Varanasi Excursion, Bout India, Jacada Travel, and Abercrombie & Kent all shine when it comes to blending deep cultural immersion with refined comfort. Expect temple ceremonies, local storytellers, spiritual rituals, and the kind of access you don’t get from big-box operators.
Compare India’s top luxury travel companies at a glance
| Travel Company | Best Known For | Local Immersion ⭐ | Luxury Comfort ⭐ | Personalization ⭐ |
| Varanasi Excursion | Deep spiritual journeys & authentic North India tours | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Abercrombie & Kent India | High-end, global-standard travel with expert local guides | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Sita Travels | Custom luxury tours with strong local expertise | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| The Q Experiences | Experiential luxury like polar expeditions & themed trips | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Bout India | Fully bespoke tours with a single destination expert | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Banyan Tours | Insider-led, discreet luxury across India | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| The Ultimate Travelling Camp | Glamping in Ladakh, Nagaland & luxury wilderness spots | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ |
| Jacada Travel | Global boutique luxury with seamless India offerings | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Thomas Cook India | Packaged luxury holidays with wide service coverage | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ |
| SOTC Travel Limited | Family-friendly luxury tours & curated group packages | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ |
So… which luxury travel experience will you choose?
Gabriel García Márquez once said, “What matters in life is not what happens to you but what you remember and how you remember it.”
At the end of the day, luxury means different things to different people. For some, it’s waking up in a tented camp under Himalayan stars. For others, it’s being flown across countries on a private jet, or walking through Varanasi’s timeless ghats with a historian by your side.
Whatever luxury means to you, comfort, exclusivity, cultural depth, or curated calm, India has a travel company that fits your style.
And if your heart is set on something rooted, spiritual, and soul-stirring… Varanasi Excursion is here to guide you.
From intimate aarti ceremonies to personalized heritage walks, palace stays to immersive cultural experiences, we don’t just plan luxury trips, we help you feel India.
So yeah, you could go with a big name.
Or you could go with someone who actually cares.
📞 Ready to travel with purpose, not just a package?
Visit Varanasi Excursion or call +91 9005104999.
Travel India. Feel India. With people who truly get it.
