London, 12 January 2017 – This winter, escape the gloomy UK weather and find what you seek on a long-haul trip to India. The 'land of all seasons' offers holidaymakers both an ideal tropical climate to relax in and rich historical sites to explore.

The winter season is arguably the most ideal time to visit India, following the disappearance of the monsoon season which ends around November, with temperatures reaching a sizzling 30 degrees. Whether a traveller is looking to relax in the southern coastal state of Goa, spot unique native wildlife in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, or enjoy a tour of the Golden Triangle, India offers the perfect winter sun escape. 

View the Taj Mahal under the Full Moon in Agra
It's recently become possible to visit the Taj Mahal at night under the light of the full moon and those who fancy a crowd-free view can enjoy the incredible monument from the comfort of The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra, which is located a mere 600 metres away. Each of the hotel rooms and suites features uninterrupted views of the ancient, much loved monument, while its Mughal splendour is mirrored in elements of the guest rooms layout and design. The tour is complemented with a visit to the famous Golden Triangle cities, Delhi and the Pink City of Jaipur, which is home to the Amber Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ampersand Travel offers a seven night all Oberoi trip to North India including accommodation at The Oberoi, Gurgaon; The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra and The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur. Prices for a seven night trip start from £2,750 per person, based on two people travelling. This price includes international flights, one double room on bed and breakfast basis, all sightseeing entrances, current government taxes, English speaking guides, private transport and transfers. For more information, visit: www.ampersandtravel.com.

Winter Wildlife Spotting in Kerala and Temple Tourism in Tamil Nadu
For those mindful of the environment around them whilst travelling, Responsible Travel's Hidden Gems of India tour can be tailored to fit individual preferences. Beginning in Cochin, travellers can enjoy a cruise on the impressive backwaters, possibly one of the most visited attractions in Kerala. During the tour, guests will have the chance to trek in the impressive Western Ghat mountains, before travelling east to explore the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to elephants and tigers. The tour also includes a visit to the breath-taking temple town of Madurai in Tamil Nadu. As with all holiday packages from Responsible Tourism, travellers can rest assured that the tour operator invests in local businesses and protects wildlife and culture. Prices start from £1,980 per person, including all accommodation, all transfers, current taxes and local assistance. For more information, visit: www.responsibletravel.com/holiday/8778/kerala-tamil-nadu-holiday-india.

Bask Beneath the Glorious Indian Sun at Leela Goa Beach Resort
Perfect for those looking for an escape to warmer climates, the luxurious Leela Goa 5-star beach resort offers winter-sun seekers with more than just an opportunity to relax. Located in the southern coastal state of Goa, the hotel is nestled among 75 acres of landscaped tropical gardens and bordered by the secluded Mobor beach and the active fishing villages along the River Sal. Along with offering an opportunity for relaxation by the warm Arabian Sea, the hotel also provides visitors with the option to take part in water sport activities and yoga classes. For those who simply wish to unwind in a warmer climate, the hotel's health spa offers traditional Ayurvedic treatment, which is one of the world's oldest holistic healing systems. Prices start from £1,275 per person, including 5 nights B&B in a Lagoon Terrace and international flights from Heathrow with Eithad. For more information, visit: www.dialaflight.com/hotels/india/goa/the-leela-goa/2505079/#offer_33066

For more information, visit: www.incredibleindia.org.

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Image Captions:
Image 1: Stay at The Paradisa Plantation Retreat during Responsible Travel's Hidden Gems of India tour. The retreat offers outstanding views of Kerala. Image courtesy of Responsible Travel.
Image 2: Each of The Oberoi Amarvilas' hotel rooms and suites features uninterrupted views of the Taj Mahal. Image courtesy of The Oberoi Group.
Image 3: The luxurious Leela Goa 5-star beach resort is perfect for winter-sun seekers. Image courtesy of Dialaflight.

24 x 7 Information Line
The Ministry of Tourism has introduced a 24 x 7 information line for the benefit of tourists travelling in India. This phone line is available in 10 foreign languages besides in Hindi and English. A tourist in need of assistance is free to contact the information line while travelling in India. The toll-free information line can be accessed by calling 1800-11-1363.

Media Enquiries:
India Tourism London
info@incredibleindia.org
McCluskey International
Fiona Anderson / Libby Hughes
T: 020 8747 2170
E: incredibleindia@mccluskey.co.uk