With the recent royal visit and new film of Kipling's famous Jungle Book keeping India in the spotlight at the moment, touring specialist, Archers Holidays has launched a range of aspirational holidays so customers can enjoy the colour, culture and incredible wildlife of this amazing continent themselves.

Animal lovers and those wanting to see the famous sights of India can enjoy the new 10 day 'India's Golden Triangle and the Tigers of Ranthambore' tour priced from £1489 pp. The tour includes the iconic sights of Delhi, Agra, the spectacular Taj Mahal and ancient city of Jaipur. See Old Delhi's famous Red Fort from a cycle rickshaw, visit Agra Fort for a sunset visit of the Taj Mahal before travelling to the Ranthambore National Park for three thrilling game drives to see the protected tigers which Kipling drew inspiration from for his Jungle book character of 'Shere Khan'.

Enjoy old style luxury aboard the 'Deccan Odyssey train from Mumbai on Archers' two new rail journeys; the 10 day 'Hidden Treasures of Gujarat' (from £4225pp) or Indian Exploration – Mumbai to Delhi (priced from £3979pp). In opulent style with fully equipped guest cabins, the train's 21 air-conditioned royal coaches provide two restaurants, lounge and even spa and gym facilities. The luxury train holidays offer a high level of service and incredible daily sightseeing excursions to experience the surrounding historical sights, palaces, local traditions and cultures as customers continue the journey in complete comfort.   Vadodara, Mumbai and Gir National Park are just some of the highlights. A range of extensions are available in Shimla, Amritsar and Goa..

Archers' customers can get to the heart of Northern India's incredible cities with authentic experiences unique to the region on a new 14 day small group tour 'Highlights of Northern India' (from £1465pp) whilst staying in complete luxury at Heritage Hotels. As well as seeing the famous Amber Fort at Jaipur and Taj Mahal, take a guided walk through the back streets of Delhi and enjoy snacks at the 'snack capital' of the area Bikaner. Customers can immerse themselves in the local culture by learning how to tie a turban, visit the local Bishnoi desert tribes by jeep, see the old block printing technique at Jaipur's Anokhi Museum before enjoying sweets at a local heritage sweet shop.

Starting in Chennai, the 14 day 'Discover Southern India & Kerala' (from £1585pp) offers a journey of discovery through the southern region of India including the lush green backwaters of Kerala. Unique local experiences include a demonstration of local silk weaving at Kanchipuram, a tour of Pondicherry based on the famous book 'Life of Pi, an authentic Tamil cuisine experience in Tanjore as well as taking part in a prayer ceremony at Madurai and visit a spice plantation at Thekaddy. Customers can enjoy sailing on a half day cruise through the backwaters of Kerala past palm trees and plantations before heading to Kochi for a fascinating heritage tour.

Rob Goodwin, Head of Product commented: “We are delighted to be able to offer our customers such a diverse holiday range to see this incredible continent from travelling as part of a small group or relaxing in style aboard the luxurious Deccan Odyssey train. Whichever region of India they choose to see, we can guarantee an authentic and exciting holiday.”

He added: The Indian government's introduction of the e-visa, will eliminate the lengthy application process making it much easier for our customers wanting to visit India.”

All prices quoted are based on 2017 departures from Heathrow and include return flights, accommodation, guided sightseeing and airport transfers.

For more information or to make a booking ring Archers Holidays on 0800 668 1892 or visit www.archersdirect.co.uk

Ends

Note to editors:

Archers Holidays is associated with the Globus Family of Brands, an international travel company with over 80 years experience of providing touring holidays. With offices worldwide, the UK tour operator has access to the best choice of land arrangements and excursions and offers the widest choice of escorted tours, cruises, multi-centre holidays and rail journeys. New for 2016 is a range of aspirational holidays in the Maldives. Archers Holidays is a member of ABTA and is fully bonded with the CAA.

For further press information, images, brochure front covers ring Helen McNaught on 020 8315 4520 or email hmcnaught@cosmostours.co.uk