Tara

India & Japan Specialist

I’ve been lucky to have travelled extensively across the globe independently, and in recent years professionally, with multiple trips to Asia to try out Audley’s experiences in India and Japan.

Although I’ve visited India many times, I believe there will always be more dynamic landscapes to explore. This beautiful country offers something for everyone, with its snow-capped mountains, bustling cities, golden sand beaches and a rich plethora of flora and fauna. I’m particularly interested in food, so I have really loved trying out the various local delicacies and comparing how these tastes change from state to state.

Another passion of mine is the great outdoors, and this is an area in which Japan thrives. Before I’d visited myself, I’d only pictured the bright city lights of Tokyo, so I was pleasantly surprised by the stunning scenery and hiking opportunities on offer in Hakone and Kamikochi National Park. Nothing quite compares to the views of Mount Fuji in the sunshine.

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I recommend visiting - Munnar, India

Put your trust in your driver and drive up along the meandering roads of the tea plantations to Munnar. The district is home to some of Kerala's most dramatic views with rows and rows of tea bushes blanketing the rolling hills. You can enjoy a range of activities here including a visit the Tea Museum, a local village walk or a trek to experience the sunrise over the Western Ghats. Alternatively, if you want to use this time to sit back and relax, the mild climate and characterful hotels in the district can allow for a peaceful break between busy itineraries.

I recommend staying at - Rajakkad Estate, India

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Nestled in the Tamil Hills, the Rajakkad Estate offers rooms in an ornate 18th-century wooden building. Driving up the steep and winding roads to the property, nothing quite prepares you for the scenery once you arrive. The grounds are home to an extraordinary collection of flora and fauna and offer views of surrounding plantations, the forest canopy and the mountains beyond. Rest, clean air and fresh food are key elements of a stay and the large yoga platform, communal meals prepared from ingredients grown on the estate farm and simple life here will all contribute to the deep level of relaxation.

I'll never forget when…

Prior to my trip to India, I had managed my expectations of wildlife sightings and what I might or might not see. I told myself the animals are wild and therefore sightings are completely out of my control. However, I will never forget when my guide and I stumbled upon a male elephant grazing at the edge of a watering hole in Periyar Tiger Reserve. This experience was made all the more dramatic by the fact I was on foot and the knowledge and professionalism of my guide meant that I still felt incredibly safe just a short distance away from this beautiful giant.

Photos of Tara

Tara trying block printing in Bagru, Rajasthan
Tara on a boat safari down the Chambal River, Rajasthan
Tara next to the harbour in Cochin, Kerala
Tara at Humayun's Tomb, Delhi
Tara at the Taj Mahal in Agra, Rajasthan
Tara at the Observatory in Jaipur, Rajasthan