My OAT Heart of India Review

Why Heart of India Is An Adventure Worth Taking

Northern India is unlike anywhere I've visited. It's a land of contrasts.

You can be sitting aboard a luxury bus traveling down a busy city street when a lone elephant suddenly walks past your window.

One moment, you're in a Sikh temple's universal free kitchen, eating lunch with hundreds of people. The next, you're at a 5-star resort fit for a maharaja, enjoying an eight-course meal.

India isn't for everyone.
That's why I'll share what I loved, what overwhelmed me, and what I think you should know before booking OAT's Heart of India. Don't miss my TOUR TIPS section (scroll down).

Why Heart of India Is An Adventure Worth Taking

When We Took This Trip: December 18, 2016 - January 7, 2017
Jesse's Thrifty Senior Traveler Rating: 4.80 out of 5 Stars

You want an adventure? This is it.

This was my 8th OAT adventure, and when I wrote about it at the time, my blog said it was “by far one of my favorite (if not the favorite) OAT trip.”

Since then, we've traveled on safari with OAT's Ultimate Africa and to Antarctica on White Wilderness. Those two now rank at the very top of my OAT experiences.

But Northern India and Nepal are still right up there when it comes to adventure.

After all, the word adventure is right there in Overseas Adventure Travel's name.

Highlights & Unique Experiences: OAT Heart of India

OAT's 16-day Heart of India adventure goes well beyond the standard Golden Triangle experience. Royal palaces, ancient spiritual traditions, wildlife, extraordinary food and genuine encounters with local people combine to create a trip that is difficult to describe in just a few paragraphs.

I could probably write about 40 or 50 highlights from this trip.

Here are a few of the memories that have stayed with me:

1. Sunrise and Sunset at the Taj Mahal — Agra

Seeing the Taj Mahal in changing light is one of those travel experiences that photographs simply can't capture. The marble seems to change color as the sun moves across the sky, while the history behind this extraordinary monument makes the experience even more meaningful.

2. The Evening Aarti Ceremony on the Ganges — Varanasi

This was a genuinely spiritual experience. Along the ancient ghats of the Ganges, priests perform the evening aarti ceremony using fire, brass lamps, incense and chanting.

Whether you're religious or not, standing among the crowds watching this centuries-old tradition unfold is something you'll remember.

3. Jaipur — The Pink City

Jaipur was like no other city I've seen.

The vibrant capital of Rajasthan combines magnificent architecture, the hilltop Amber Fort, the Maharaja's City Palace and colorful artisan markets.

It's busy, colorful, historic and wonderfully different from anything you're likely to experience at home.

4. Bengal Tiger Safari — Ranthambore National Park

From an incredible resort, we headed out on game drives through what was once a royal hunting ground in search of the elusive Bengal tiger.

Seeing wildlife in its natural environment is always exciting.

And when you're in India looking for a tiger, you pay attention to every rustle in the bushes.

5. An Overnight Tented Camp in Abhaneri

Leave it to OAT to take you somewhere a traditional tour might easily overlook.

We stayed at a tented camp in rural Rajasthan, visited the extraordinary ancient Chand Baori stepwell and had opportunities to interact with local villagers.

It was a completely different side of India.

6. Culinary Exploration in Lucknow

Lucknow is famous for its Awadhi cuisine, royal kebabs and distinctive culinary traditions.

Food is one of my favorite ways to understand a destination, and India certainly doesn't disappoint.

7. A Home-Hosted Dinner With an Indian Family

OAT's home-hosted experiences are among the things I particularly enjoy about these trips.

Sitting down with a local family gave us a glimpse into Indian food, marriage, family relationships and everyday life that you simply don't get from visiting monuments.

I returned home with a much better understanding of how Indian families live and what matters to them.

8. Sleeping in India's Royal Heritage

Another OAT touch I particularly enjoyed was staying in historic havelis—traditional carved mansions—or converted palace hotels.

You don't simply visit India's royal history.

Sometimes you get to sleep in it.

And Then There's the Symphony of the Indian Highway

If you've never traveled through Northern India, you're probably not prepared for the roads.

The traffic is a sensory overload of horns, color and chaos.

Auto-rickshaws, motorcycles, pedestrians, cars, buses and livestock somehow maneuver around one another in what looks like complete disorder.

Yet somehow, it works.

And then there are the trucks.

Massive, hand-painted cargo trucks roll along the highways decorated with brilliant colors, elaborate designs, religious imagery and dangling ornaments. And prominently displayed on the back of many of them is the phrase: HORN PLEASE

In India, the horn isn't necessarily a sign of anger, as it often is in the United States. It's part of the language of the road—a way of announcing your presence, asking another vehicle to move over or simply saying, “I'm coming through.”

The constant beeping becomes part of the soundtrack of Northern India.

Horns. Colors. People. Animals. Trucks.

It's chaotic.

It's fascinating.

And yes, it's an adventure.

Booking Your First
Overseas Adventure Adventure Trip?

I created the Thrifty Senior Traveler website to share my experiences and tips with others who enjoy traveling (and bargains). I don't work or get paid from any particular company.

I clearly like Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT). They meet all my checkmarks: great tours for great value. I am after all the Thrifty Senior Traveler.

If you are booking a first trip with OAT, I have a favor to ask.

OAT has a special "Referral Program". When booking your reservation, tell them "I was referred by Jesse Slome -
his OAT # is 932019."

You'll qualify for the first-time traveler savings of $100-per-person.
And, I receive a 1-time credit toward a future OAT adventure. It costs you nothing. I only get credit once. Then you get to earn referral credits.

So far, 88 travelers have told OAT they were referred by Jesse Slome. If you decide to take an OAT adventure, I hope you'll be #89!

Thank you - and I hope to see you somewhere in the world!

The Cons —
What You Should Know Before You Go To India

Let's be honest. India is an extraordinary destination, but it isn't an easy destination for everyone.

The same things that make Northern India such an adventure can also make the trip tiring, overwhelming and, at times, uncomfortable. I think it's important to know that before you book—not after you arrive.

Hot And Polluted

Depending on when you travel, temperatures in Northern India can be extremely hot.

My advice? Don't underestimate the weather. The best time to go is between November and February/March.

Air pollution is a significant issue in Northern India, particularly across the Indo-Gangetic plains (including Delhi, Agra, and Varanasi). February and March are good times to go. And, per our tips below: pack an N95 mask or two.

India Is Crowded, Noisy and Chaotic

India's major cities can be crowded, noisy and chaotic. I'm a former New Yorker and used to enormous crowds. Still, India's crowds even overwhelmed me at time. The crush of people in the Taj Mahal or walking to the Ganges can be overwhelming.

It took me time to adjust and to "just go with the flow" knowing that I was safe. Once I did, I found India's crowds to be just part of the overall wonderful experience. But, admitedly it's different and not for everyone.

Food and Water Require Some Care

Indian food is spectacular, but travelers need to use common sense.

Drink bottled or properly treated water, be cautious about where you eat and follow your Trip Experience Leader's advice.

And don't assume that something that looks perfectly familiar has been prepared in the same way you're accustomed to at home.

The good news? You're going to have some absolutely incredible meals.

Poverty Is Visible

This deserves to be said honestly.

You will see poverty.

You'll see people living in circumstances that may be very different from anything you've experienced. You may encounter people asking for money, children begging and enormous contrasts between luxury hotels and the communities immediately outside them.

It can be uncomfortable. It was for me.

But I also found that seeing these realities—and having the opportunity to talk with local people—made the trip more meaningful.

It's a Long Way From Home

Depending on where you're traveling from, getting to India is a major journey.

Add international flights, the time change and the pace of the itinerary, and you should expect the first few days to require some adjustment.

My advice: arrive rested, stay hydrated and give yourself time to adapt.

So, Is India Worth the Challenges?

For me, absolutely.

But I wouldn't tell you that India is for everyone.

If you want a quiet, predictable vacation where everything feels familiar, there are easier destinations.

If you want to be surprised, challenged, fascinated and occasionally overwhelmed, India may be one of the most rewarding trips you'll ever take.

That's why, despite the cons, I'd go back.

Tour Tips: OAT Heart of India

Here are some tips from the Thrifty Senior Traveler based on our experience. Some are about saving money. Others are simply about making your journey through India a little easier.

Take Advantage of OAT Specials

OAT frequently offers discounted rates on Heart of India, sometimes knocking thousands of dollars off the regular price—even on popular departure dates.

If your schedule is flexible, it can definitely be worthwhile to watch for a special rather than locking yourself into a particular departure date.

Look for Dates With No Single Supplement

If you're traveling alone, pay close attention to OAT's outstanding number of spots for solo travelers.

On our trip, a mother and daughter traveling together were able to take advantage of a solo-travel promotion. They each had their own room without paying the usual single supplement.

That's a pretty good deal.

Consider Booking Back-to-Back India Tours

I've taken both of OAT's India adventures. Heart of India explores the north, while OAT's Soul of India: The Colorful South provides a very different experience.

I enjoyed both, and a number of travelers on each trip stayed on to take the other.

There's another reason this can make sense: it takes a long time to get from the United States to India. If you have the time, why make that journey only once?

Bring Along an N95 or KN95 Mask

If you're sensitive to dust or poor air quality, consider bringing a well-fitting N95 or KN95 mask.

Dust can be an issue during the safari drives in Ranthambore, and air quality in some Northern Indian cities can be poor, particularly during certain seasons.

I'd rather have one in my daypack and not need it than need one and not have it.

Wear Slip-On Shoes and Bring Extra Socks

You'll be removing your shoes frequently when entering temples, palaces and some private homes.

A comfortable pair of sturdy slip-on shoes makes this considerably easier.

And bring extra socks—preferably dark ones. You'll appreciate having a clean pair after walking across dusty floors.

Carry Your Own Toiletries

Some public rest stops may have limited toilet paper or hand soap.

I recommend carrying a small supply of tissues, wet wipes and hand sanitizer in your daypack.

It's one of those things you may never think about until you need it.

Pace Your Appetite

India offers extraordinary food, but don't feel obligated to eat everything placed in front of you.

Hotel buffets are convenient and generally offer plenty of choices. But some of my favorite food memories from this trip came from something much simpler:

Fresh, hot naan coming straight from a local oven. When you see it being made fresh, save room.

The Thrifty Senior Traveler's Sweet Tooth

You knew there had to be a dessert tip.

For sweets, I preferred hotel buffets or established, well-known sweet shops recommended by our Trip Experience Leader rather than uncovered street displays.

Ask your Trip Experience Leader where the locals go.

And then try these:

Jalebi
These are deep-fried spirals of batter soaked in warm, sweet syrup.

They're crispy on the outside, sticky and sweet inside, and best when served fresh and hot.

If you see them being made fresh, give them a try.

Lal Peda — Varanasi
Ask your Trip Experience Leader to help you find Lal Peda, a specialty associated with Varanasi.

These dense, chewy sweets are made from milk solids and sugar and have a distinctive reddish-brown color from the cooking process.

They're very different from the desserts you'll find at home.

And, naturally, the Thrifty Senior Traveler had to try them.

OAT vs. G Adventures & Intrepid: Which India Tour Is Right for You?

If you're researching an India adventure, you'll quickly discover that OAT isn't the only company offering small-group trips through Northern India. G Adventures and Intrepid Travel both offer India itineraries that may appeal to travelers looking for a more intimate alternative to large traditional tours.

I've taken 19 OAT adventures, including Heart of India, so I clearly have a preference. But that doesn't mean the alternatives aren't worth considering.

Where OAT Has the Advantage

Designed With Older Travelers in Mind: OAT's trips are specifically designed around the interests and needs of older travelers. That doesn't mean you won't be active—you will—but accommodations, pacing, transportation and included experiences are thoughtfully structured for the OAT audience.

Small Groups: OAT limits its groups to a maximum of 16 travelers. That's small enough to make getting on and off the bus easier, allow more personal interaction with your Trip Experience Leader and make home visits and local experiences feel more intimate.

A More Comprehensive Experience: OAT's Heart of India isn't simply a Golden Triangle tour. The itinerary combines Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and Varanasi with wildlife, rural experiences, historic accommodations, local food and cultural encounters.

More Included: OAT generally includes more of the major trip expenses in its package, including accommodations, meals, transportation and included activities. For someone who doesn't want to constantly calculate what is and isn't included, that's a real advantage.

Where G Adventures & Intrepid May Have the Advantage

More Choice: Both G Adventures and Intrepid offer a wide variety of India itineraries, from shorter Golden Triangle trips to longer adventures covering Rajasthan and other parts of the country.

If you want to build a shorter or more specialized India trip, you'll find plenty of choices.

Smaller Groups Are Available: Intrepid's India trips can have groups smaller than OAT's maximum 16, while G Adventures offers a variety of group sizes depending on the itinerary.

Potentially Different Price Points: If your primary objective is finding the lowest-cost way to experience India, it's worth comparing itineraries carefully. But don't compare the headline price alone.

Look at what is included, the hotels, meals, transportation, optional expenses and group size.

Which Would I Choose?

For me, OAT wins.

I've taken 19 OAT adventures, and Heart of India is one of the reasons I keep coming back.

At this stage of my life, I want adventure without giving up comfort. I want small groups, good accommodations, knowledgeable local leaders and an itinerary that gets me beyond the obvious tourist attractions.

G Adventures and Intrepid are both legitimate alternatives, particularly if you're looking for a younger, more independent or more budget-oriented style of travel.

But if you're a senior traveler who wants to experience the adventure of India without having to figure out all the logistics yourself, I'd take a serious look at OAT's Heart of India.

After all, I've already done it—and I'd do it again.

A Note From the Thrifty Senior Traveler

I created the Thrifty Senior Traveler website to share my travel experiences, practical tips and, of course, ways to save money with other travelers. I don't work for or receive payment from any particular travel company.

I clearly like Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT). After 19 OAT adventures, I've found that they check many of my boxes: great trips, small groups and good value. I am, after all, the Thrifty Senior Traveler.

Taking Your First OAT Trip? I Have a Favor to Ask

OAT has a special Referral Program for first-time travelers.

When making your reservation, please tell OAT: “I was referred by Jesse Slome — his OAT # is 932019.”

You'll qualify for $100 off per person on your first OAT trip, and I'll receive one referral credit toward a future OAT adventure.

It costs you nothing. And once you've taken your first OAT trip, you can earn referral credits by referring your own friends and fellow travelers.

Will You Be #89?

So far, 88 travelers have told OAT they were referred by Jesse Slome. If you decide to take an OAT adventure, I hope you'll be #89!

And thank you for helping the Thrifty Senior Traveler keep exploring—and sharing what I've learned along the way.

FAQ: OAT Heart of India & Northern India Travel

Is OAT Heart of India a good trip for first-time visitors to India?

Absolutely. In fact, I think a small-group OAT adventure is an excellent way to experience India for the first time.

India can be overwhelming, but that's also part of its appeal. OAT handles the transportation, accommodations and logistics while your Trip Experience Leader helps explain what you're seeing and experiencing.

My advice? Go with an open mind and expect India to be very different from home.
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What is the best time of year to visit Northern India?

The best time depends on what you want to experience, but the cooler months from roughly October through March are generally the most comfortable for touring Northern India.

Temperatures can become extremely hot later in the spring and summer. Winter mornings and evenings can also be surprisingly cool, so layers are useful.

Always check current conditions when you're booking because weather patterns can vary.
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Is India safe for senior travelers?

I felt comfortable traveling through Northern India with OAT.

As with travel anywhere, you need to pay attention to your surroundings, follow your Trip Experience Leader's advice and take normal precautions with valuables, traffic and crowded areas.

For me, the bigger issue wasn't personal safety—it was simply adjusting to the crowds, traffic, noise and very different environment.

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What should I pack for OAT Heart of India?

Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and I'd strongly recommend slip-on shoes because you'll frequently remove your footwear when entering temples and private homes.

Also bring lightweight, breathable clothing, layers, sunscreen, a hat, tissues, hand sanitizer and an insulated water bottle.

And consider bringing an N95 or KN95 mask if you're sensitive to dust or poor air quality.

You don't need a huge wardrobe. Comfort beats fashion on this trip.

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What should I know about food and drinking water in India?

Indian food was one of my favorite parts of the trip. Eat what looks appealing, but use common sense about food and water.

Follow OAT's guidance about drinking water, and bottled or properly treated water is the safest choice for most travelers.

And don't be afraid to try the local food. Some of my favorite memories involved fresh naan, regional specialties and Indian sweets.

Just remember my rule: save room for dessert.

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How much cash should I bring to India?

You don't need to carry a huge amount of cash.

Credit cards are useful at many hotels and larger businesses, but you'll want some Indian rupees for smaller purchases, markets, tips and places where cards aren't accepted.

Your Trip Experience Leader can also tell you where and when you'll have opportunities to obtain local currency.

As with any international trip, I recommend having more than one way to access your money rather than depending entirely on a single credit card or ATM card.

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Is OAT Heart of India a good choice for solo travelers?

Yes.

One of the advantages of traveling with OAT is that you aren't really traveling alone. You're part of a small group, with a Trip Experience Leader handling the logistics and introducing you to the destination.

India is also a place where having someone else handle transportation and navigation can be particularly valuable.

And if OAT offers a departure without a single supplement, pay attention. That's a great opportunity for solo travelers to experience India without paying the usual premium for traveling alone.

Written by Jesse Slome, The Thrifty Senior Traveler
Originally published August 28, 2026 | Last updated August 28, 2026

Enjoy a few Heart of India trip photos taken by Jesse Slome, the Thrifty Senior Traveler