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Privately Guided Tour Exploring: Delhi-Varanasi-Agra-Jaipur-Udaipur-Mumbai (From Price is valid from April to September, please enquire about October – March prices)
This privately guided journey will amaze you. From the opulence of the Taj Mahal to the sounds of the Shah Jahan O-Mumtaz play, you will begin to feel the passion of India as you have never experienced before. You will visit Varanasi, a holy city unlike any other city in the world where you will feel the circle of life comes together in the unfolding of life and death, equally celebrated and revered in this ancient culture.
Tour Highlights
- Unique, authentic, and magnificently beautiful cultural experiences throughout the tour.
- Step back in time and into the last footsteps of Mahatma Gandhi as you walk through his home for the last 144 days of his fascinating life.
- Take an exhilarating bicycle rickshaw ride through the narrow back lanes of Old Delhi.
- Visit the oldest living city of India and home to one of the worlds’ most time-honored and mysterious cultures.
- Witness the most important daily rituals at sunset and sunrise on the banks of the holy Ganges River.
- Visit the world heritage site Sarnath, where Buddha preached his first sermon.
- Visit the 3rd century BC monuments built by Emperor at Sarnath.
- You will feel as though you are in another world as you stroll through the meticulously planned gardens as you head toward the world’s largest monument of love, the Taj Mahal. As the sun slowly rises over this jewel of India, it will reveal itself to you in all its glory, taking it from the subtlety of night to its grandiose brilliance at daybreak
- Breathe in the delightful aromas as you take part in a traditional cooking class with members of the Royal Rajput community.
Itinerary
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Day 1:
Arrive In India
Welcome to Delhi, a city that bridges two different worlds. Old Delhi, once the capital of Islamic India, is a labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with crumbling havelis and formidable mosques. In contrast, the imperial city of New Delhi created by the British Raj is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings.
You will be greeted by an Explore India representative at the airport and escorted to the hotel. Overnight stay in Delhi.
Accommodation: Le Méridien New DelhiLe Méridien New Delhi
Over the last three decades, Le Meridien New Delhi has transformed itself into a masterpiece. The 5-star hotel is an epitome of world-class architecture, cuisine, design and fashion. Located in the heart of the city, the iconic glass building of Le Meridien New Delhi has been recognized as one of the 100 Icons of Delhi. The hotel is readily accessible to city’s important facilities and institutions. The glass building is surrounded by ministries, government institutions, Media Centre and historical monuments. The shopping hubs Connaught Place and Janpath Market are within walking distance from the hotel. It’s a perfect getaway for a business traveler who is also looking for some recreation nearby in the evening. The Le Meridien New Delhi can be summed as a Traveler’s Paradise.
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Day 2:
New Delhi | Sikh Temple, Humayun’s Tomb & Synagogue Visit
We will start our tour with a visit the house of Mahatma Gandhi a place where Mr. Gandhi’s epic life ended on 30 January 1948. Mahatma Gandhi had lived in this house from 9 September 1947 to 30 January 1948. Thus, the hallowed house treasures many memories of the last 144 days of his life. The House was acquired by the Government of India in 1971 and was converted into a National Memorial of the Father of the Nation and was opened to the public on August 15, 1973.
Next, we will visit Sikh Temple locally called Gurduwara Bangla Sahib. This is the most prominent Sikh Temple, of worship, known for its association with the eighth Sikh Guru, and the pond inside its complex, known as the “Sarovar”, whose water is considered holy by Sikhs and is known as “Amrit’’
Afternoon visit to UNESCO World heritage site Humayun’s tomb. The second Mughal Emperor of India. The tomb was built by his widow, Biga Begum in 1569-70, 14 years after his death, at a cost of 1.5 million rupees. It was later used for the burial of various members of the ruling family and contains some 150 graves. It has aptly been described as the necropolis of the Mughal dynasty, Later proceed for a lunch.
Later this evening we will enjoy dinner in the heart of Connaught place one of the largest financial, commercial and business centers in New Delhi. It is often abbreviated to CP and houses the headquarters of several noted Indian firms. The main commercial area of the new city, New Delhi, during the erstwhile British Raj, its environs occupy a place of pride in the city and are counted among the top heritage structures in New Delhi. It was developed as a showpiece of Lutyens’ Delhi with a prominent Central Business District.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Le Méridien New DelhiLe Méridien New Delhi
Over the last three decades, Le Meridien New Delhi has transformed itself into a masterpiece. The 5-star hotel is an epitome of world-class architecture, cuisine, design and fashion. Located in the heart of the city, the iconic glass building of Le Meridien New Delhi has been recognized as one of the 100 Icons of Delhi. The hotel is readily accessible to city’s important facilities and institutions. The glass building is surrounded by ministries, government institutions, Media Centre and historical monuments. The shopping hubs Connaught Place and Janpath Market are within walking distance from the hotel. It’s a perfect getaway for a business traveler who is also looking for some recreation nearby in the evening. The Le Meridien New Delhi can be summed as a Traveler’s Paradise.
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Day 3:
Old Delhi | Rickshaw Ride | Jama Mosque & Hindu Temple | Qutab Minar
After Breakfast – We will start our morning tour with a visit to 17th century Old Delhi. Visit the Jama Mosque, the royal mosque built by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan in 1656. We will take a bicycle rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk, the spine of Old Delhi that houses the spice market and jeweler’s lane and then drive past Red Fort (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Later we will enjoy lunch in the heart of Connaught place.
Afternoon We will visit UNESCO World heritage site Qutab Minar, located in the district of South Delhi, this magnificent monument in red and buff sandstone is the highest tower in India. Built in the early 13th century, the surrounding archaeological area contains funerary buildings, notably the magnificent Alai-Darwaza Gate, the masterpiece of Indo-Muslim art (built in 1311), and two mosques, including the Quwwatu’l-Islam, the oldest in northern India, built of materials reused from some 20 Brahman temples.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Le Méridien New DelhiLe Méridien New Delhi
Over the last three decades, Le Meridien New Delhi has transformed itself into a masterpiece. The 5-star hotel is an epitome of world-class architecture, cuisine, design and fashion. Located in the heart of the city, the iconic glass building of Le Meridien New Delhi has been recognized as one of the 100 Icons of Delhi. The hotel is readily accessible to city’s important facilities and institutions. The glass building is surrounded by ministries, government institutions, Media Centre and historical monuments. The shopping hubs Connaught Place and Janpath Market are within walking distance from the hotel. It’s a perfect getaway for a business traveler who is also looking for some recreation nearby in the evening. The Le Meridien New Delhi can be summed as a Traveler’s Paradise.
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Day 4:
Delhi – Varanasi The Holy Ganges
After leisurely breakfast transfer to Delhi airport and fly to Varanasi the religious capital of Hinduism formerly known as Banaras during British Raj, this is one of the world’s most ancient cultures and the oldest living city of India and home to one of the worlds’ most time-honored and mysterious cultures dating back to 5000 years. Its present name is derived from the fact that the city is at the confluence of the rivers Varuna & Asi. Upon arrival, we are transferred to our hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Taj Ganges, VaranasiTaj Ganges, Varanasi
Nadesar Palace Ground, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221002, Indiahttps://gateway.tajhotels.com/en-in/ganges-varanasi/+91 542 666 0001The ancient temple city of Varanasi has yet another landmark in The Gateway Hotel Varanasi. Featured among the top 5 star hotels in the city, The Gateway Hotel Varanasi is nestled amidst 40 acres of lush gardens at a convenient distance (about 45 minutes drive) from the airport.
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Day 5:
Varanasi Bathing Ceremony | Explore Sarnath
In the early morning, we leave for a boat ride on the Ganges to see the bathing Ghats (river bank) & cremation site. We will watch the sunrise on the riverfront from a boat; this can be a spiritually uplifting sight. Life on the Ghats is bound in an endless string of rituals; ever-changing aspects of the river and the wide landscapes throughout have fascinated visitors from all over the world. Return to the hotel for breakfast.
In the afternoon, we enjoy a guided excursion to Sarnath a center of Buddhist leering and the buried Buddhist city where Buddha preached his first sermon. After attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, the Buddha went to Sarnath and it was here that he preached his first discourse in the deer park and set in motion the ‘Wheel of the Dharma’. It is one of the holiest sites as it is believed that in this place the stream of the Buddha’s teaching first flowed. Sarnath was a renowned school of learning from the 16th century BC to the 12th century AD. Visit the ruins, the stupa, the Buddhist temple & the museum. At the museum is the Ashok Pillar with its four guardian lions, used as independent India’s national emblem.
In the early evening, we will take a close look at the banks of the Ganges to witness the devotional ceremony of Aarti performed by thousands of devout Hindus, listen to the Chanted prayers, the rhythmic drumming fill the air, and bells from temples across the Holy Ganges.
Dinner and overnight stay in the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Taj Ganges, VaranasiTaj Ganges, Varanasi
Nadesar Palace Ground, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221002, Indiahttps://gateway.tajhotels.com/en-in/ganges-varanasi/+91 542 666 0001The ancient temple city of Varanasi has yet another landmark in The Gateway Hotel Varanasi. Featured among the top 5 star hotels in the city, The Gateway Hotel Varanasi is nestled amidst 40 acres of lush gardens at a convenient distance (about 45 minutes drive) from the airport.
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Day 6:
Varanasi - Agra | The City of Taj Mahal
After the breakfast, transfer to Delhi airport to board your flight for Delhi. On arrival in Delhi, drive to Agra (190 Kms. approx 4 hrs). On arrival, check-in at the hotel.
Later in the evening enjoy a live show, a fascinating play that depicts the saga of love and a memorable journey into the history of Taj Mahal. The drama portrays the Mughal era in the 16th century. It is series of plays depicting the true and immortal love of Shahjahan for Mumtaz Mahal, his beautiful wife; the lavish lifestyle of Mughal era; and the hardship of the artisans who worked for 22 years to create the most precious specimen of craftsmanship.
Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Trident Agra Hotel, AgraTrident Agra Hotel, Agra
Fatehabad Road, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, Indiahttps://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-agra+91 562 223 5000Near the Taj Mahal, Trident, Agra is one of the best hotels in the city. Beautifully landscaped gardens and water fountains welcome you to this charming leisure hotel. Built in local red stone, reminiscent of the Mughal era, the hotel features 135 tastefully appointed rooms and suites, which overlook the central courtyard and gardens. Guests can also enjoy complimentary high speed Internet for up to four devices.
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Day 7:
Agra | Majestic Agra Fort
We start our day at sunrise with a visit to one of the most incredible monuments ever built in the world, The Taj Mahal which is a mausoleum made of white marble, the monument of love. It was built between 1631 and 1648 by order of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife. The Taj Mahal is the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world’s heritage. Return to your hotel for breakfast.
Later in the day, we will continue our visit with a tour of the city of Agra and then visit Red Fort, which was built by Emperor Akbar in 1565, and additions were made up until the time of his grandson, Shah Jahan. It contains the hall of public and private audiences amongst many other beautiful structures. The afternoon is free to be spent as you wish.
Afternoon – we will visit a well-renowned marble factory to experience the making of fine inlaid stonework and translucent marble of the region. The craftsmen of Agra are still renowned for the exquisite marble-inlay work that has made Agra’s monuments famous. In the evening, we will have dinner at the hotel.
Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Trident Agra Hotel, AgraTrident Agra Hotel, Agra
Fatehabad Road, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, Indiahttps://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-agra+91 562 223 5000Near the Taj Mahal, Trident, Agra is one of the best hotels in the city. Beautifully landscaped gardens and water fountains welcome you to this charming leisure hotel. Built in local red stone, reminiscent of the Mughal era, the hotel features 135 tastefully appointed rooms and suites, which overlook the central courtyard and gardens. Guests can also enjoy complimentary high speed Internet for up to four devices.
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Day 8:
Agra – Jaipur
After breakfast – We leave for Jaipur. On our way, we will visit Fatehpur Sikri, built by Emperor Akbar in 1569. This was the old capital of the Moghuls, which was abandoned after 15 years due to the scarcity of water. See the graceful buildings including the Jama Masjid, Tomb of Salim Chisti, Panch Mahal & other palaces that are still preserved in their original glory. Later we will continue for lunch in Bharatpur at the resort.
After Lunch – We will continue to Jaipur, the origin of Jaipur’s nickname becomes immediately apparent as we enter the old city walls and greet the pink-colored buildings that rise at every turn. The city of Jaipur owes its names, foundation and its careful planning to the great warrior, astronomer Maharaja Jai Singh II. In 1727, with Mughal power on the wane, Jai Singh decided to move down from his hillside fortress at nearby Amber to a new site on the plains. He laid out the city, with its surrounding walls and six rectangular blocks, according to the principles of town planning set down in Shilpa Shastra, an ancient Hindu treatise on architecture. Upon arrival check in at your hotel. Remaining of the day at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, LunchAccommodation: Trident Hotel JaipurTrident Hotel Jaipur
Amber Fort Road, Opposite, Jal Mahal, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002, Indiahttps://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-jaipur+91 141 267 0101Resplendent in the hues of its magnificent past, Jaipur is one of the most vibrant, 5-star destinations in India. The capital and the largest city of Rajasthan, it was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, in 1727. Folklore has it that in 1876, the city was painted a luxury, warm pink colour to welcome the Prince of Wales (King Edward VII). Since then, the ‘pink city’, as it is lovingly called, has retained its rosy blush, which has charmed travelers from around the world.
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Day 9:
Jaipur | Amber Fort | Ride An Elephant & City Palace
In the morning after breakfast, enjoy an excursion to Amber Fort by jeep. Amber is the classic romantic Rajasthani Fort Palace. Its construction was started by Man Singh I in 1592, and completed by his descendent Jai Singh I. Its forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds its ultimate expression.
Visit City Palace – A delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture, the City Palace sprawls over one-seventh of the area in the walled city. Jantar Mantar – This is the largest and the best preserved of the five observatories built by Jai Singh II in different parts of the country. This observatory consisting of outsized astronomical instruments is still in use. Hawa Mahal – The ornamental facade of this “Palace of Winds” is a prominent landmark in Jaipur. Their five-story structures of sandstone plastered pink encrusted with fine trelliswork and elaborate balconies. The palace has 953 niches and windows. Built-in 1799 by Pratap Singh, the Mahal was a royal grandstand for the palace women.
Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Trident Hotel JaipurTrident Hotel Jaipur
Amber Fort Road, Opposite, Jal Mahal, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002, Indiahttps://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-jaipur+91 141 267 0101Resplendent in the hues of its magnificent past, Jaipur is one of the most vibrant, 5-star destinations in India. The capital and the largest city of Rajasthan, it was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, in 1727. Folklore has it that in 1876, the city was painted a luxury, warm pink colour to welcome the Prince of Wales (King Edward VII). Since then, the ‘pink city’, as it is lovingly called, has retained its rosy blush, which has charmed travelers from around the world.
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Day 10:
Jaipur – Udaipur
After leisurely transfer to the airport and board your flight for Udaipur. Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel.
In the later afternoon enjoy your cruise on the placid, mystical waters of Lake Pichola. We will explore this glimmering lake, the mountains and the city against the backdrop of a beautiful sunset.
Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Trident Udaipur Hotel, UdaipurTrident Udaipur Hotel, Udaipur
Trident Road, Near Pichola Lake, Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, Indiahttps://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-udaipur+91 294 243 2200Wake up to a sumptuous breakfast spread that ensures a flying start to your day, before stepping out to explore the sights and discover the rich history of Udaipur. No five star, royal hospitality is quite complete without a lavish feast. The hotel’s main restaurant, Aravalli, serves authentic dishes from the Kingdom of Mewar, known for its fine cuisine.
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Day 11:
Udaipur | City Palace
After breakfast – We will enjoy a sightseeing tour of Udaipur. Visit City Palace, a conglomeration of buildings added by various Maharanas; the palace manages to retain a surprising uniformity of design. It has a rare collection of Osler’s crystal ordered from England by Maharana Sajjan Singh in 1877. Next visit Rajasthani painting house a fine art of painting school. Later proceed for a lunch.
After Lunch – We will return back to our hotel Later this afternoon, we will spend an interesting, educational and social evening with Jyoti, a Rajasthani & Indian Cuisine expert, and housewife. She and her husband serve to love and hospitality along with food to their guests. They belong to the Royal Rajput community. she will host a cooking class for us featuring the same ingredients. Jyoti has her own style of cooking and specific choices for the utensils to be used for different preparations. For example, she cooks Rajasthani “kadhi” in earthenware pots on fire; green vegetables are cooked in “kadhai”, a round iron bowl-shaped pan; “dekchi” is used to cook non-vegetarian dishes.. Her choice of spices is also remarkable. The taste of freshly prepared and cooked ingredients will be great and round off the complete experience.
Holi Festival also known as the festival of colours or the festival of sharing love[ The festival signifies the victory of good over evil, the arrival of spring, end of winter, and for many a festive day to meet others, play and laugh, forget and forgive, and repair broken relationships, and is also celebrated as a thanksgiving for a good harvest.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Trident Udaipur Hotel, UdaipurTrident Udaipur Hotel, Udaipur
Trident Road, Near Pichola Lake, Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, Indiahttps://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-udaipur+91 294 243 2200Wake up to a sumptuous breakfast spread that ensures a flying start to your day, before stepping out to explore the sights and discover the rich history of Udaipur. No five star, royal hospitality is quite complete without a lavish feast. The hotel’s main restaurant, Aravalli, serves authentic dishes from the Kingdom of Mewar, known for its fine cuisine.
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Day 12:
Udaipur – Mumbai By Flight
After breakfast, you are transferred to the airport to board your flight for Mumbai, a combination of seven islands that was reclaimed slowly. The city was a part of the kingdom of Ashoka, a famous king of medieval India. This is the fourth most populated city in the
world. Arrive and transfer to your hotel.
This Afternoon we will start with a brief orientation on India’s Jewish communities – the history of their arrival in India 2000 years ago, geographical spread, the different sects and their culture. Over these 2000 years, the Jewish experience has been marked by local acceptance of Jewish people and their customs. Visit the Knesset Eliyahoo Synagogue (also known as Fort Jewish Synagogue), established in 1884 and wonderfully adorned with colorful pillars, chandeliers, and stained-glass windows. Proceed to the Magen David Synagogue, a Victorian building with Gothic-like frontal pillars and a clock tower. Next, continue to Tiphereth Israel Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogues in Mumbai. Later, visit the Gate of Mercy Synagogue, established in 1796 by Late Commandant Samaji Hasaji Divekar (Samuel Ezekiel Divekar).
Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Trident Udaipur Hotel, UdaipurTrident Udaipur Hotel, Udaipur
Trident Road, Near Pichola Lake, Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, Indiahttps://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-udaipur+91 294 243 2200Wake up to a sumptuous breakfast spread that ensures a flying start to your day, before stepping out to explore the sights and discover the rich history of Udaipur. No five star, royal hospitality is quite complete without a lavish feast. The hotel’s main restaurant, Aravalli, serves authentic dishes from the Kingdom of Mewar, known for its fine cuisine.
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Day 13:
Mumbai | Elephanta Caves
Breakfast at your hotel. Home to office in this city, 200,000 lunch boxes are delivered. We will make a brief stop at Victoria station to see Dhabbawala, (one who carries the Lunch box), whose job is to carry and deliver freshly made food from home in lunch boxes to office workers. Tiffin is an old-fashioned English word for a light lunch, and sometimes for the box, it is carried in. Though the work sounds simple, it is actually a highly specialized trade that is over a century old and which has become integral to Mumbai’s culture. Around 5000 dabbawallas, who come from remote villages in Mumbai, comprise this unique network to delivery approximately 2,00,000 lunch boxes from homes to respective offices around the city every day.
The afternoon we will go to the boat jetty at the Gateway of India for a one-hour boat ride to the famed Elephanta Island. Elephanta Island is the site of the magnificent Elephanta caves, containing beautiful carvings, sculptures, and a temple to the Hindu God, Lord Shiva. The island, being a commercial, military and religions center for centuries also has traces of early Buddhist culture. Here, Indian art has found one of its most perfect expressions, particularly the huge high reliefs in the main cave.
Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: The Oberoi, MumbaiThe Oberoi, Mumbai
Nariman Point, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400021, Indiahttps://www.oberoihotels.com/hotels-in-mumbai+91 22 6632 5757Originally a collection of seven islands, the modern city of Mumbai came into being during the mid eighteenth century by reclaiming land from the sea. As well as being the financial and commercial capital of India, Mumbai is also home to Bollywood; one of the largest centres of film production in the world.
The Oberoi, Mumbai is a striking example of modern architecture that lifts you up over Marine Drive to enjoy magnificent views of the ocean and ‘Queen’s Necklace’ lights along the shoreline. Only at the best 5 star hotel in Mumbai.
Spacious accommodation, fine cuisines and our genuine hospitality are complemented by a range of services for all guests; with special care taken for single lady travellers at the best hotel in Mumbai. We aim to ensure that your stay with us will be as comfortable, convenient and pleasant as can be.
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Day 14:
Explore Slums & Departure to International Airport
This morning we will explore Dharavi, also known as the Slum Dog Millionaire Tour. The tour of Dharavi consists of the commercial and residential areas. In the residential areas, the sense of community and good nature of people will be apparent. While going through the residential area, you will get a sense of the conditions and problems that the residents face. In the commercial area, you will see the recycling, food making, temple, sewing, bakery, soap factory and pappad making areas. They all take place in small rooms, which you will see as we pass through the maze of small gullies.
Later you are transferred to the airport to board your flight for home.
What’s included
- Accommodation as mentioned in the tour program
- Escorted transfers (airport to hotel, hotel to airport)
- Meals as mentioned in the program
- Extensive sightseeing as described, including all entrance fees
- Services of an English-speaking tour guide during sightseeing
- Air Conditioned Private Toyota Innova transportation throughout your trip
- Bottled water during sightseeing tours and long drives
- All Activities mentioned in the program
What’s excluded
- Personal expenses such as porter, tips, laundry, bar bills, phone bills, etc.
- Any other sightseeing other than mentioned in the program will charge extra.
- Services other than those in our included
- International airfare
You choose when to go
This is a privately guided journey. Contact us on how to book this tour.You May Also Like
Recent Reviews
FEB, 28 2018: I wanted to let you know that I was very pleased with the tour. The arrangements were excellent. Ashish was an excellent guide. I thought it was very well planned, with appropriate down time but busy schedules. The hotels were all very comfortable and well located. (I was annoyed that Hilton didn't offer free wifi in the rooms but I joined their Hilton Honors program and got free wifi from that.) The buffet style meals were perfect for our needs. It is surprising how quickly wifi has become a must have for most travellers. Keeping the group size small made it easy for us to move as a group. I had never seen the technique of having hawkers bring their wares to the bus, where we could buy or not, without haggling. This was a clever way of minimizing people wandering off for their own purchases and bargaining. The arranged shopping opportunities were also very good. High quality merchandise was offered. It also seemed to be value for money. I look forward to having the opportunity to travel with Explore India again. Joan
Joan Prior
Toronto, ON, Canada
03 MAR, 2018: The trip was very interesting and educational. We appreciated the opportunity to see a broad spectrum of life in India and particularly the countryside and life in the villages. The accommodations and the food were excellent. And the weather couldn’t have been any better. The guide for our tour, Yajur, had a vast array of knowledge which he pleasantly and willingly passed on. He answered in great detail the questions our group had and had a vast and varied knowledge of India, its culture and history and provided the information freely and willingly. The entire group got on well together and appreciated the active agenda provided. The bus provided (with driver Lalit and assistant Ranjit) was excellent and fit the size of the group well – we appreciated the fact that we were not jammed in as sardines. And we really appreciated going off the main roads and into interior portions of the country. The trip and the experience have certainly whetted our appetite to revisit the country and see different aspects. Thanks to you, Nadir and Mansoor.
Bill & Laurie Shaw
Saskatoon SK, Canada
We had a fantastic time on your organized tour over the 12 nights and 13 days spent in India. Your contact in New Delhi Mr. K.R.Joshi was very helpful. He met us at the Park Hotel the 1st day we went there. He gave us all the Hotel Vouchers, Travel Car arrangements, Rail sleeper car Tickets and the internal Flight Travel Vouchers. He stayed in touch with us all the time and contacted us through the various drivers in all the Cities. He also met us on the eve of our departure. Also we have to mention your contact in Srinagar, Kashmir, Mr. Rafeek. He booked us in a super luxury Houseboat. He brought us new towels and soap from his own home as the ones supplied by the Boathouse were not too good. The boat house-keeper was excellent. He served the meals personally and waited on us till we finished the meal. The meals supplied by him were really good. He made special Kashmir Biriyani and mutton curry for us for the last dinner. We also have to mention about your driver Mr. Hilal in Srinagar who brought us to the local airport from the boat-house. He came with us right through to airport security with our luggage and booked us at the check-in desk and took us to the Airport gate for our flight. He was very helpful as not many clerks at this airport spoke English and the security was very strict. All your drivers came on time to pick us for the Tours. They were very courteous and very careful. Your travel guides were very knowledgeable and good. Please mention the baggage allowance in writing along with your e-tickets. We had difficulty at Varnasi Airport with the check-in clerk. She said we both can take only two pieces with a combined weight of 40 kg. She delayed us over 25 minutes at the check-in and we had remove some clothes from our bags into our hand luggage. This is the only snag we had in India. We would gladly recommend your services and travel bookings to other Canadians who would like to see a good part of India. Also we would like to advise people never to travel on your own to a country like India.
Sudu & Rani Gunadasa
Vancouver, Canada
My wife and I and our friends were very satisfied with your arrangements, which were well organized and efficient. I appreciate your assistance in planning this trip to India. I would also like to comment on “Sandeep Singh” for providing exceptional services and professionalism. He went above and beyond his call of duty to ensure we had the most enjoyable experience in India. He was enthusiastic, informative, engaging, professional, helpful, organized and friendly, not to mention a wealth of knowledge. I would like to also comment on the tour bus operator and his assistant for providing a safe and efficient service. And last but not least, thank you to Rajeev for coordinating behind the scenes. We will be definitely recommending Explore India to our friends and family. Thank you once again.
Rob and Julie
Calgary, Canada
I just wanted to send you a note of thanks for doing such a great professional job in arranging and co-ordinating Margaret Davidson’s recent trip to India. As a seasoned traveller and former hotel executive, I am fully aware of all the logistics and details that are essential in making ones travels as rewarding as possible. You have excelled in so many ways, from the initial contact with you, to her safe return home a couple of weeks ago. Her trip was amazing in so many memorable ways thanks in large part to the seamless travel plans that you put into place. Please pass this note on to any that are considering your travel services, as we highly recommend you for your impeccable follow-up and diligence in all that you have done for us. Our heartfelt thanks to you again for a job well done!
Bos Malcolm and Margaret Davidson
Gabriola Island, Canada
We have to write and tell you how much we enjoyed our recent trip to India, Nepal and Bhutan. Everything, from the first contact with you in the Vancouver office, to the accommodation, food, modes of transportation, and staff who travelled with us was wonderful! The guides were first class, very professional and knowledgeable, and any special request was accommodated with a smile. Our drivers knew every street and highway like the ‘back of their hand” (which is incredible in India!!!). We always arrived on time and in good humour. Having porters at each airport to personally assist us with baggage and tickets relieved a lot of stress. The “surprises” along the journey were really a special treat. The upgrade to a hotel that was rated among the “best 5 in the world” (thought I’d died and gone to heaven there!), to the welcoming drinks with you on a terrace in Connaught Circle; the extra included meals that we hadn’t expected, and we all even had new towels supplied for the overnight train ride from Agra to Varenasi. The willingness of every guide in all 3 countries to accommodate special requests or make slight changes to daily itinerary made the journey all the more pleasant. (Sometimes at the end of a long the day the group voted to eat at the hotel rather than go out). Visiting these three countries should be on everyone’s “Bucket List”. Our memories of India are the people, people, people, vibrant colors, ancient architecture, food, modes of transportation (the rickshaw rides through the back streets of Dehli and Varanasi were incredible - I wish my eyes were a camera!), rides in tuk tuks, and the 2 hour camel ride through local villages. In Nepal the flight to Everest was a “high” light, and the elephant ride in the Chitwan National Forest to look for the one-horned rhino (saw 5 up close and personal!). The flight navigating the approach to the airport in Paro, Bhutan was exciting. While descending the plane weaves between the mountains….bank left, descend, bank right descend….finally arriving safely at the most beautifully decorated airport we have ever seen. The highlights here were the people. Kind, friendly, warm, always smiling. They say that Bhutan is the happiest place in the world, and I believe it. Prayer flags, prayer wheels, the locals dressed in national costume, the markets, ancient bridges, hiking up the mountain to the Tiger’s Nest monastery….well… we made it as far as the Tea house and could look across at it and that was still wonderful. We have been recommending this trip and your company to all our travel friends. While planning this trip with you Nazir you answered all our numerous phone and email questions (“on the train is there a bathroom close to our compartment?”) promptly. The extra help with Carol’s Indian visa was really appreciated. Our trip was all we had hoped it would be because of excellent itinerary, professional staff and courtesy that we received in Vancouver and abroad. We will be travelling with you again!
Carol & Terry Noonan
North Vancouver, Canada
My wife and I are now back in Guyana after our participation in the October 30 Golden Triangle Land Tour of India. We want to thank you and Explore India for the excellence of the arrangements which ensured a memorable and enjoyable experience. For us, India was indeed incredible and we shall treasure many pleasant memories of the tour, the camaraderie among our group and the new friendships fostered. The physical arrangements – choice of itinerary, hotels, monuments and other sights – would undoubtedly have been refined over time based on your Company’s experience in the field, and Evelyn and I ask you and Explore India to accept our sincere compliments on that aspect of the arrangements. There was another element that complemented the physical aspect in the absence of which our experience might not have exceeded expectation. Here we are referring to the human element which also contributed significantly to the overall impression. From the moment that we were welcomed at Delhi Airport - well after midnight - by Rajeev Sharma, we felt the positive impact of the human side of Explore India. Rajeev infused the group with the confident expectation which was fulfilled over the days of the Tour. The team who looked after us for the duration of the trip are worthy of the highest commendation. Our Tour Manager Rajur was simply outstanding. Evelyn and I have done other tours but Rajur was easily the best we have encountered – great personality, friendly but firm, but most of all extremely knowledgeable. He provided valuable insights in an interesting way into the history, traditions, social and economic issues of India that proved to be a useful background to the monuments and places of interest we visited. Our coach driver Surjit was competent and generated confidence in his skills in what at times could best be described as organized chaos while helper Sonu was attentive to our needs and with Surjit ensured that the coach was always clean and comfortable. All in all, Evelyn and I very highly rate the experience compared against other tours that we have done.
Errol Cheong
Damerara, Guyana
Hello Nazir, The Journey of the Senses was truly an amazing trip and there are many things to reflect on. It is difficult to process it all at once. The pictures and the memories certainly help. I am working at putting together a travel journal so I don't forget it all! There, of course, were many highlights, but three key highlights for us were the community kitchen at the Gurduwara Bangla Sahib [we would have loved more time there], the visits to the ghats in Varanasi and the tour of the slum in Mumbai. I'm so glad that we switched to the February tour from a private tour in December, and that we chose a tour that you were leading. You and your team thought of everything, and took care of every small detail, including a proper toilet in the middle of the desert!. Not having to deal with our luggage, checking in at the airports, or lining up for hotel keys was a real treat. The guides, especially Yajur, were great, and we felt very safe and protected with Ravi and Shenkar. The special events - welcome dinner, elephant and camel safaris, lunch at Taj Khema and the dinner with Joti in Udaipur were amazing, each surprise exceeding the other. And a special thank you for arranging my trip to the dentist in Jodhpur. These kinds of unexpected medical issues can be stressful, but you calmly took care of every detail. Again, Nazir, thank you for a great time-enjoyable, educational and delicious! We may be up for another adventure in 2017 - let us know!
Michelle and Eli
Vancouver, Canada
Thank you to Nazir, Manzoor, Raj, Ravi, Niraj and the many other drivers and people who all worked so hard to make ths dream a reality. We had an amazing 14 days in India and Nepal. We were very fortunate that Nazir suggested we take a direct Air Canada flight from Vancouver. We got to Delhi in just under 14 hours arriving on Thursday which gave us an extra 3 days there before joining the tour group on Sunday. During that time we saw the Lotus temple, the Akshardam Temple, the Lodhi gardens, the memorial to Mahatma Gandhi and the Qutb Minar as well as other temples and Mosques. These monuments together with seeing the Jama Mosque and the Chandni Chowk area on Suday were the highlight of our stay in Delhi, and suggest that these be included in all tours of the City. We also especially enjoyed our stay in the Suryaa Hotel, not just because of the wonderfull hospitality there, but also because it is located right in the heart of the local market. This gave us the chance to wander about getting to know how the locals live there without the distraction or the influx of tour buses. We also went to see the Nizamuddin Market and the Nizamuddin Dargah there, and had an awsome dinner at Karim’s on the day of our arrival. We were hoping to take part in the evening devotional music there, but that didn’t seem to work out. Maybe next time! There were many highlights throughtout this tour, not to distract from the Taj Mahal which was more stunning than I could have imagined when it first came into sight. All the accomodation, meals, transportation and the drivers, helpers and guides were all first class. Nepal was another high light, especially our stay in Nagarkot and the drive up there. Nires was a delight to have with us and very informative as was Ravi on our India leg of our journey. The only other suggestion I have here is that we would have liked to have arrived in Nagarkot early enough so that we would have had time to go on a short hike on the famous Panoramic Hiking trail I heard about. Over all I have no complaints and only good memories on our amazing journey in India and Nepal. What I would say in a short review, or you can post this entire e-mail if you want, are my comments below: This was a personal road trip Manzoor and Nazir would take their families on, Expect to expect the unexpected!You will be sirprized, delighted, amazed and even stunned, but never disappointed. Through out our journey eveything was so well thought out and perfectly executed. Thank you to everyone who worked so had to make this a trip of a lifetime. Our memories will be with us forever. Thank you so much. Rose and Jim
Rose & Jim Toews
Vancouver BC, Canada
My wife and I attended Explore India’s Journey of the Senses Tour from Feb. 11 to 25, 2014 organized by Nazir Karnai. This tour included Dehli (New and Old), Varanasi, Agra, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Mumbai. I am writing this to express how this tour exceeded all of our expectations. A rating of 10 out of 10 does not adequately reflect the level of the experience and value of this Tour of India especially for those of us who were first time visitors. Every element of this tour was impeccably organized and carried out. That organization included limiting the number pf participants (30), selection of excellent historically significant places to visit and some very extraordinary places to eat with some very special unique venues. Those venues included a Maharaja Palace courtyard in Jodhpur, a grassy knoll overlooking the Taj Mahal, a desert campfire with Indian dancers and musicians, a gourmet dinner overlooking an Elephant polo pitch after playing a few games of Elephant polo. The hotel accommodations were all top notch with full breakfast facilities. I have said to many of my friend about this trip, I did not have a bad cup of coffee on the entire tour. The food on every day was excellent with most dinners and many lunches being at a gourmet level. The transportation within India was well organized especially the bus that was utilized – the bus was comfortable and had facilities on board. The various sites chosen to be visited were not only well selected but represented must see places at the locations we visited. They included both historic sites (e.g. Taj Mahal and Amber Fort) as well as interesting sites(e.g. various Ghandi related sites, boat ride in the lake at Udaipur where James Bond movie Octapussy was filmed). An extremely well organized and respectful (no camera) tour of India’s largest slum was included with a knowledgeable local person from the area leading the way in which the group was divided into small groups for viewing inside the slum. In addition to visiting extraordinary sites special arrangements were made by Nazir for us to visit the working kitchen of the second largest Sikh temple in India. Many other events were organized by Nazir for us such as a camel ride in the late afternoon of a day so we could see the sun set atop a camel followed by a campfire with dancer and musicians. Nazir not only did all of this cheerfully but with class Lastly, at all of these events we were accompanied by a staff headed by Nazir who looked after every detail and answered any question or need we had. .We were not only accompanied on tour events but also if we chose to take a brief outing during a break between events we were accompanied by Nazir’s assistant Rouf who made us feel safe and secure at all times especially where having someone who spoke the local language came in handy. Explore India’s Journey of the Senses Tour was a truly extraordinary tour. If anyone wants an amazing India experience this is the tour to take.
Peter and Anna
Vancouver, Canada
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