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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
Hello Nazir, It has been a week since our return from Impressions of India trip. We are slowly getting over our jet lag. I still find myself going to the gym at 4 o'clock in the morning (and not minding it). This was my second time in India. The first time was in 1976 when I backpacked through large parts of India for about 5-6 weeks and then returned back again about a month later for four more months to do some work out of Mumbai. I often had a week or two off, which I used to travel further through India. First of all, I must comment on the excellent service that Sandeep has provided to our group. As I have discovered, all twenty-two participants are a well-travelled bunch. From my own perspective, Sandeep was the best guide of any we have ever had, anywhere. I would gladly go on another tour of India under his guidance again. Maybe Kerala one day. We have seen wonderful historical sites, forts and palaces, seen a tiger, experienced Diwali in Varanasi, etc. The hotels chosen by EI were excellent, the food was delicious and travel by bus was very comfortable. We will treasure our memories of India forever and will definitely recommend your company to our friends and relatives. Thank you and Namaste,
Martin Necpal
North York, Canada
An amazing experience......it exceeded my expectations. I am a seasoned world traveler and was so very impressed with this tour. Our guide Shah was incredibly informative and I loved listening to his stories about the culture and history of India. I came away feeling that I learned a lot about India....the real India.....and developed a genuine liking for the country and the Indian people. It was a “taste”.....I definitely want to go back and see more! Shah was always in tune to the group’s needs and was very accommodating.....he definitely made the trip a success. He was a true professional in every way. He had a wonderful sense of humor. Accommodations were first class...3 of us shared a room so a very comfortable cot was always set up.....however, at each hotel we had to call for extra towels, coffee mug, pillow etc......we were always served promptly....a minor inconvenience really. I was surprised at the pollution....a heads up might be helpful, as one may want to pack a mask. So many highlights.....of course the Taj Mahal and the Varanasi experience.....but I’ll never forget our tour of the government school and meeting the children, the kitchen at the Sikh temple was another highlight. I loved the safari and being in the rural area for a couple of days.....and of course our beloved bus bizarres..........so incredible. Thank you all! Cindy Henry.
Cindy Henry
London ON, Canada
Got home Wednesday night and recovering from the most incredible journey! Thank you so much for arranging everything so well! Yuvi is a great guide and companion. We had so much to talk about and had so many laughs together. He is a treasure in your organization and deserves to go far. The flight to Kashmir was his first time off the ground and he handled everything so well. From start to finish he was a wonderful companion and I am so glad to have had the same escort all the way. We got to know each other and to kid each other and I think I learned far more about India than I could get from books! Perhaps he learned a bit about Canadians too as he is in charge of groups after me. I must thank you too for the drivers. Kuljeet Singh is such a beautiful person. We three had wonderful experiences in Kashmir together. And what a skilful driver he is. I think of him as the terror of Srinigar! Everything just gets out of Kool's way! He was a better guide in the mountains than Asti was guide in Delhi! On the way to the airport for Kashmir, Kool answered questions I had for Asti who sort of didn't answer when he didn't know. Kool kept his mouth shut as driver in Delhi, but he is a great guide and very personable. Baluinder Singh is a great driver and very knowledgeable too. He is a great person to get to know and we had lovely chats with Yuvi of course on the drives from Delhi to Jaipur and then on to Agra. Balu surely knows great restaurants. I think it was K.R. Joshi who got me to give both a radio interview one night and a TV interview the next on the houseboat in Srinigar. So the Canadian writer, female, aged 92, gave K.R. a boost in his job. I wanted to get a white T shirt with Kashmir in big blue letters across the front but we couldn't stop on the way to the airport as there was a demonstration going on. If K.R. would like to thank me for those interviews, maybe he could send me a T-shirt size XL, white with KASHMIR in blue letters across the front! It's good advertising for him! In Gulmarg I saw the Tshirts in a window but it was raining in BUCKETS, so nobody stopped walking fast! I have emailed my son and daughter-in-law in England to advise them that not to get in touch with you for a mind exploding experience is to deny themselves a gift thatgoes far beyond money. I hope you hear from them. Shall I be recommending in my writing and in my lectures that to see India with Incredible India is the fabulous best cared for way to do it? You can be sure that I will. Thank you again for looking after all my doubts and questions. As for the train ride! Getting into a discussion of a number of things with an English professor, male, Muslim, a professor of psychiatry, female, Hindu, Yuri, a Brahmin and me while rattling along at high speed at night will always be one of my most wonderful travel memories of my life of many many travel memories!
Mary Mason
Toronto, Canada
Thanks Nazir, we are back tired but entirely satisfied! Where do I start? You have a tremendous team working for you in India, including Raj, our guide in Darjeleen and of course Ardvid (please excuse my spelling). Not only were we fully informed about what we were seeing but they all added interesting info regarding the religions, history etc. I give Ardvid a 42 gun salute (Trust you know what this means with him). What a beautiful man! Went out of his way to satisfy everyone, one of our friends, Val Frost hurt her foot, he obtained a rickshaw for her twice. Always first on there when meeting us and always counting, does herding cats come to mind. The tour was spectacular! Know I understand the phrase Incredible India. Extremes are mind boggling, from extreme poverty to extreme wealth. The driving! The cows! The people! (we were stopped constantly to have pictures taken with locals. Always a friendly smile, a wave. Once instance a school group stopped and sang the Indian National Anthem for us. Hotels and meals super! The only downside was no tigers at the preserve but to show Ardvid, in Jaipur tried to show us all leopards to make up for lack of tigers, but unfortunately, only one car of the group saw them. Another example of his need and wish to please all. Thank Raj for arrangements for our last day. Worked much better than the original plan. We had two awesome drivers and Raj was always there, even to the point phoning all three groups the night before our departure and then again in the two cars on our way to the airport. One downside was the interesting move of the Prime Minister on the night we departed, canceling 500/1000 rupee notes. I know Errol got stuck with a couple but I recommended he mail the rupees to you so you could arrange a donation to charity. Please feel free to use me as a reference Nazir if necessary. You and your group were wonderful from the time we booked until our return. If you need any clarification regarding the above please let me know but a big THANK YOU again from two extremely satisfied guests.
Carol (Gerarda) and John Ragan
Calgary, Canada
Thank you, Nazir. We arrived home safely, except that our luggage did not make the connection from Paris to Toronto. However, they were delivered on Sunday, so all is well and good. Please enjoy reading our testimonial below. India was never on our bucket list but after coming across your website, reading the testimonials and itinerary, we were hooked. ’Journey of the Senses' was everything and more than we expected: From visiting the palaces, forts, and temples with amazing vistas to the entertainment, and gaining insight into the life of the people of each region. Nazir raised the bar at every opportunity. We were pampered all the way and treated to exclusive dining experiences with a wide array of delicious dishes. The elegant hotels were top-notch. We really felt as if we were being taken care of by an old friend. Thank you for the trip of a lifetime! We will wholeheartedly recommend this trip to all our friends and family.
Beverley & Hak Savani
Toronto, 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
Dear Nazir, I wanted to let you know what a wonderful experience I had on our Explore India, Journey of the Senses tour, which began on Oct. 17. From the time we arrived in New Delhi until we left from Mumbai 2 weeks later I felt safe and even, pampered. All the hotels, transportation and food were of 5 star quality. I will remember the Taj Mahal chain of hotels, in particular, for their luxurious surroundings and amazing meals! Of course, the elephant and camel rides in the dessert, followed by specially prepared meals just for us were highlights, as well as our visits to a random village, a primary school, the Taj Mahal, the Ganges, a slum in Mumbai. The list goes on and on. I want to devote the next part of my email to writing about Shyaam Singh, our guide. He was a remarkable guide! He had extensive knowledge about every location we visited and he always shared his knowledge with respect and passion. He was able to answer all our questions, no matter how complex or trivial the questions were. Not only did he have a vast knowledge of history, but he also had a vast knowledge of present day India, from the local people and their customs and religions to geography to politics. He was always willing to answer any personal questions we asked him about his family and his life in general. We were all thankful that Shyaam discreetly made all arrangements for us so that everything ran smoothly. Shyaam was always able to organize our group and keep us on time for all our outings. We know he did a lot of work behind the scenes, remaining calm and controlled at all times. We all enjoyed Shyaam’s warmth and sense of humour. He was not only a remarkable guide, but a remarkable human being. He made our trip memorable and successful. I know that all the venues were selected by you, all the hotels, meals and travel arrangements were planned by you, but, your choice of Shyaam to be our guide made our tour truly wonderful. We all came to realize that a really good guide is integral to the success of a trip such as ours. Thanks again, Nazir, for a wonderful experience I will never forget.
Liz Nixon
Coldstream, BC. Canada
We had a FABULOUS time in India. Our hotels were very comfortable and the food selection was excellent. Every aspect of the trip went smoothly and Rajiv and Yajur were both wonderful. Rajiv greeted us and explained everything really well and then was there to say farewell. Yajur was knowledgeable, funny, helpful...just all-round a great tour guide. He even arranged for Ian to go into town and buy a cricket bat And the itinerary was excellent - lots of variety and lots of information. We will tell all our friends that Explore India is the way to visit. I'll ask Ian tonight if he has any extra feedback and let you know. Many thanks and all the very best of the holidays to you and your family. We wish you a happy, healthy and prosperous 2016,
Toni & Ian McGregor
Burlington, Canada
Thank you so much for arranging our trip to India. It turned out to be a great trip and that’s thanks to your knowledge, expertise and experience. I am copying Howard in on this email as he recommended you to us, so a thank you to Howard too!!! I know we had many issues in planning this holiday but in the end it worked out better than we could have imagined. Everything went like clockwork. This is where we bring in the ‘wonderful’ Rajeev. Wow!!! Where or how would we have got through this holiday without him. He is a huge asset to your organisation. We had Abercrombie and Kent service which was an added bonus. He really made our trip to India memorable. He held our hands right throughout and made us feel like VIPs. I don’t think any of us would have any hesitation in recommending Explore India if they get the service we got! Thank you too for treating us to the delicious meal at Vada? It was very kind and generous of you and much appreciated by us all. But to end this note. Our trip was fantastic. The hotels characteristic, historical, fun, luxury and functional, transport with great drivers and luxury, guides very knowledgeable. Thank you! A great experience. With very best wishes.
Chani Davie & Friends
London, Canada
Hi Nazir; We arrived in Calgary late Wednesday. Needless to say we are tired. We had a memorable time in India to say the least! On TV one sees programs about India however experiencing it was another thing! One cannot image the density of people without experiencing it firsthand. It was truly shocking. Explore India provides Canadians an opportunity to see it for themselves. Arvind was a great tour leader; his knowledge about the country, its customs, its people, is astounding. Raj, your man on the ground, went out of his way to help us. As you know we stayed an extra day in Delhi at the end of our stay because of poor plane connections. As our booking for the Taj Ambassador Hotel did not work out, he arranged our stay at the Pride Plaza Hotel and provided a car and driver to allow us to see the city. This turned out to be a much better than if we had stayed at the Taj Ambassador as the new hotel was close to the airport saving travel time at departure. Lochem (sp?), your local guide for Darjeeling had exceptional knowledge of the area, its history and the people. Without him much of the local folklore would have been missed. There were two surprises we encountered while in India. The first was the road condition between the airport and Darjeeling; the lengthy travel time and being so winding. Unfortunately Carolyn got motion sickness throwing up stomach acid within the vehicle making it uncomfortable for other passengers. Returning was much better as she took Gravol that settled her stomach. In the end we all laughed about it. The second surprise was the India government announcement cancelling the 500 and 1000 rupee notes the day prior to leaving. We got stuck with a small quantity of rupees that we could not use. This is not a big deal but wondered if you had a use for them. Perhaps they could be given to an Indian charity? If it could be done let us know where to send them. The itinerary for each leg (six) of the tour were appropriate providing us with a good overview of India. The quality of the hotels was excellent providing an evening refuge to recuperate, collect our thoughts, and share with friends. Transportation arrangements were excellent; Arvind did a superb job dealing with airport arrangements for air travel within India. Security had recently been stepped up at the airports making for long lineups. Arvind managed to shorten them with his knowledge and relationships with security personnel. The quality of buses used for transportation between Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore, and Jaipur were excellent. As you are aware driving in India is somewhat different than driving in North America. Road quality can be very poor, vehicle density is very high, roads go through many towns, people and animals share the road, and drivers don’t necessarily obey traffic laws; such as creating five lanes of traffic on a two lane road.. The bus drivers had to deal with these situations being mindful of our travel deadlines and our safety. They did an excellent job! It may be a while before we travel to India again, however we would definitely consider Explore India first for making our travel/tour arrangements when we do. Our kindest regards
Errol and Carolyn
Calgary, Canada
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