Hi, I'm Sebastian, a 26-year-old lawyer from the UK.
For years, India sat quietly at the top of my bucket list. Between building my career, long workdays, and everyday responsibilities, I kept telling myself I'd visit "next year." Eventually, I realised that if I kept waiting for the perfect time, I might never go.
When I finally decided to take a five-week break, I wanted this trip to be more than a holiday. I wanted mountains, local culture, festivals, wildlife, heritage, incredible food, and experiences that would stay with me long after I returned home. Planning all of that across a country as vast as India felt overwhelming, so I reached out to GoPlanOut. They helped shape an itinerary that matched exactly how I wanted to travel—independently, but with trusted local guidance whenever I needed it.
Starting in the Himalayas
My journey began in Delhi before heading north into Himachal Pradesh through Tirthan Valley, Shoja, Shangarh, and Bir.
This part of the trip was everything I had imagined and more. Every destination felt quieter than the last, with snow-capped mountains, peaceful villages, and endless hiking trails. I stayed in hostels, met travellers from around the world, spent evenings sharing stories over chai, and woke up every morning to views that made me forget about work completely.
One of the biggest highlights was paragliding in Bir. Floating above the mountains with the Himalayas stretching endlessly around me was one of those moments that reminds you why travel is worth every bit of planning.
Experiencing Holi Where It Truly Comes Alive
From the mountains, I travelled through Delhi and Agra before heading to Vrindavan for Holi.
This was the experience I had looked forward to the most.
No photograph or video could have prepared me for the atmosphere. The streets were alive with music, colours, laughter, temples filled with celebrations, and complete strangers welcoming me as though I had always belonged there. It wasn't just about throwing colours—it was about sharing happiness with thousands of people at the same time.
It was easily one of the most unforgettable days of my entire trip.
Before leaving the region, standing in front of the Taj Mahal reminded me why it's considered one of the world's greatest monuments. Some places really do live up to every expectation.
History, Wildlife and Rajasthan's Royal Heritage
After a spiritual stop in Varanasi, my journey continued through Rajasthan, where every city seemed to tell a different story.
Jaipur introduced me to magnificent forts and colourful streets, Pushkar slowed everything down with its peaceful atmosphere, Jaisalmer amazed me with endless golden sand dunes, while Udaipur felt like one of the most beautiful cities I had ever visited.
One of my biggest dreams was spotting a tiger in the wild, and Ranthambore made that dream come true. Sitting quietly in the safari jeep, surrounded by the forests, every sound felt exciting. Seeing a tiger in its natural habitat is something I'll never forget.
Rajasthan wasn't just about history—it was about experiencing traditions that still feel alive today.
The Perfect Ending in South India
Towards the final part of my journey, I flew to Kochi and explored the beautiful hills of Munnar before taking the train to Goa.
South India brought a completely different pace of life. The tea plantations of Munnar, the fresh air, and the slower rhythm made it the perfect place to relax after weeks of travelling.
Goa became the final chapter of my adventure. The Planout team met me there and showed me a side of Goa that most tourists never get to see. We explored hidden cafés, quieter beaches, local spots, and ended the evenings over good food, conversations, and Goa's famous craft beer.
It didn't feel like meeting a travel company.
It felt like catching up with friends.
Before flying home, I spent my final days exploring Mumbai, watching one last Indian sunset and reflecting on everything the previous five weeks had given me.
More Than Just a Trip
Looking back, I realise this journey wasn't just about visiting India.
It was about finally making time for something I had wanted for years.
Every destination gave me something different. The peaceful Himalayas, the unforgettable energy of Holi, the spirituality of Varanasi, Rajasthan's royal heritage, the excitement of spotting a tiger, Kerala's beautiful landscapes, Goa's relaxed vibe, and Mumbai's unstoppable energy all came together to create an experience I'll never forget.
But more than the places, it was the people who made India special.
The conversations in hostels.
The locals who welcomed me into their communities.
The strangers who became friends.
The kindness I experienced almost everywhere I went.
When I boarded my flight back to the UK, I realised I wasn't leaving with just photographs.
I was leaving with stories.
If India has been sitting on your bucket list for years like it was on mine, don't keep waiting for the perfect time.
Book the ticket.
The rest has a way of falling into place.
