The only country where lions and tigers co-exist, India is a land of towering mountains, explosive cities and deep spirituality. Once Britain’s most valuable colony, India’s productive landscape supports a spectacularly diverse society. In a country of vast economic growth and gaping inequalities, India offers an enlivening experience for adventurous students.

Experience the best of both worlds in the capital of contrasts; watch out for painted cows as you tour the narrow lanes and spice bazaars of Old Delhi, or walk through tree-lined boulevards and high-tech shopping malls in New Delhi. Nip down to Agra to join the masses at the Taj Mahal, or explore the markets and mausoleums of this sprawling city. Investigate arid desert landscapes, the awesome Himalayan Mountains, stunning hilltop forts and the sacred Ganges River.

India presents a moving experience for many students, who will find themselves immersed in vivid and enigmatic landscapes. Experiencing a former colony and rising world power, students can reflect on the cultures and environments which shape our society in the UK, returning home with a wider appreciation of our global interdependence and responsibilities.

Key Information

Travel: STS can offer tours to India by air, with flights times of around 8.5 hours from the UK. India has decent road and excellent rail networks, but visitors may need to exercise patience and flexibility in cities.

Accommodation: STS offer a range of 3 or 4 star hotels across the country.

Weather: Delhi and Agra are hot throughout the year, cooling to around 20°C from December to February. Elsewhere, a diverse terrain gives India a wide variety of climatic conditions, from permanent snowfields to tropical coastlands. Monsoon rains are experienced from June to October.

Spending money: Students can enjoy spending their rupees on delicious snacks and unusual souvenirs. Personal expenses are at the discretion of schools.