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PEEPS

(Our monthly newsletter of articles and stories in the form of destination insights, new openings and experiences, photography and much more, supplemented by our destination experts, partners and the guests)

By Amit Verma & Dominique Gallois

Dear Traveller,

Great brands inspire emotions, convey trust, and build lasting confidence. India, as a brand, offers exactly the same beyond the imagination of what fits into a typical 10-day itinerary. That’s why we’re launching “Peeps,” our monthly newsletter.

Through Peeps, we’ll dive into untold stories, insights, and unique experiences that go beyond the usual travel narratives. We look forward to engaging in meaningful conversations and developing innovative products for today’s conscious travellers. Expect destination highlights, expert tips, cultural insights, and much more in every issue.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Here’s to another year of self-discovery!

Ujjwal
Founder, Immerse India

SPECIAL

With the New Year, Season of Celebration Begins Across India!

On January 15th, Makar Sankranti marks the Sun’s entry into Capricorn and the start of the northward movement (Uttarayan), bringing longer days and increasing solar energy. Scientifically, this day signifies the Sun’s transition into the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn) according to the sidereal (Nirayana) system used in Indian astronomy. Traditionally, January 14th is considered the beginning of the Sun’s apparent northward path toward the Tropic of Cancer, signalling the end of its southward journey (Dakshinayan).

As the Sun moves northward, the country comes alive with vibrant festivities. From devotees taking holy dips in sacred rivers to the aroma of freshly made home-made sesame-and-jaggery sweets, to skies filled with colourful kites, the season is a feast for the senses. Each region tells its own story of gratitude, renewal, and community, offering travellers a rare glimpse into India’s deep connection with seasons, soil, and culture.

Looking ahead next year, the ardh Kumbh in Haridwar in 2027 will also coincide with this season, a once-in-a-lifetime event that draws millions to the banks of the Ganga for ritual baths, spiritual gatherings, and cultural experiences.

At Immerse India, we are working on a special program that allows travellers to witness this extraordinary festival responsibly while connecting meaningfully with India’s living traditions.

If you’re interested in an immersive journey through these festivals across India, send your query here—we’d be delighted to help you plan a thoughtful, memorable trip.

Experiences

Know-The-Unknown and Explore Hidden Destinations Most Travellers Pass-by, Unaware

The Gabbas community comes alive in a vibrant tribal dance that echoes the spirit and strength of their community.

As you wander through these remote regions, the forests hum with life, markets bustle with the rhythm of weekly trade, and tribal artisans bring heritage alive through weaving, pottery, and body art. The whole experience is an immersion into the living world of Odisha tribes, where every interaction tells a story of endurance, creativity, and reverence for nature.

Journey of the month

Travel to Himalayas: Whispers of Shrines, Trails & Tranquillity

This journey to Himalayas unfolds across the diverse landscapes of northern India — from the spiritual sanctity of Amritsar’s Golden Temple to the serene monasteries of Dharamshala, the seat of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, from soft treks through the Dhauladhar foothills to the elegant colonial charm of Shimla, before descending into the calm embrace of Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world.

STORIES from Our Guests

When I Fell in Love with Madurai Jasmine - By Margaret Jones

Madurai’s love affair with jasmine runs deep, tracing back to 300 BC, and is celebrated in Sangam poetry and temple art of ancient Tamil scholars. From dawn, women string delicate buds into garlands destined for temples, brides, and festivals. By afternoon, the same flowers may fly out to Mumbai, Delhi, Dubai, Paris, and even the US, or be distilled into luxury perfumes by houses like Dior, Tom Ford, and Guerlain, and be worn by those who indulge in the world’s finest scents.

My Madurai jasmine trail began on a quiet summer evening in Tamil Nadu, in the courtyard of a small family home painted in shades of fading ochre. The sun was dipping low, spilling liquid gold over the tiled roof, when I caught the first whisper sweet, heady, almost intoxicating Jasmine.

This is an excerpt from the personal journal of Margaret Jones’ trip to Tamil Nadu in 2025, graciously shared for our Immersive Experiences Series.

Sustainable Travel

We’re on a mission to transform the way we travel. It’s a movement we call Travel with Purpose.

Travel is most meaningful when it uplifts the places and people it touches. Natural environments and heritage sites are delicate and can only thrive if treated with care. This is why our focus on sustainable travel leads us beyond the beaten path to discover lesser-known yet extraordinary places, while also reimagining how we experience the classics.

Our environmental, social, and governance practices are built on a simple belief: tourism must lead the way in restoring balance between nature, people, and communities. It outlines our steps toward a greener, more sustainable future of travel.

Read how we are Making The Loop.

POSTCARD FROM THE EAST

Chasing That Smile: Finding Beauty in Nepalese Villages and Towns

After several years of travelling through Nepal, I’ve realised that the camera has become as much a part of the landscape as the towering Himalayas. But in these remote villages and bustling towns, people’s reactions to being photographed vary significantly. The Sherpas and Newar communities, for instance, are often welcoming to the camera, allowing moments of genuine connection.

"The landscapes are breathtaking, but it's the quiet smiles of the people, the subtle glances from behind prayer flags, or a single hand offering a bowl of rice that tell the most profound stories. Sometimes, a weathered face or the shimmer of a woven scarf is all you need to convey the warmth of a place.

WRITE TO US

Please write to your relationship manager or sales@immerseindiatours.com to access the above content or learn more about a personalised trip to the India Subcontinent.

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