Quick Menu
Overview
If you have a sense of adventure and enjoy luxury accommodations, Explore India’s Highlights of Northern India tour has been custom made just for you. This small group luxury tour highlights the best of northern India. From the vibrant city of Mumbai to the beautiful lakes of the colourful region of Rajasthan, to the opulence of the spectacular Taj Mahal, you will be amazed at every turn on this trip of a lifetime. Equally impressive on your tour are the luxury accommodations that will welcome you at days end greeting you with world class service and comfort. You are about to embark on an adventure where you will experience Indian culture in a way like never before, from cooking Indian cuisine with a local family in Udaipur to an excursion to the majestic Amber Fort Palace by Jeep which was built in 1593 in Jaipur. Visit the exquisitely carved temples of Khajuraho, and last, but certainly not least, you will experience the incredible energy alive in the ancient city of Varanasi, a place where both death and life come together in such a beautiful and magical way. All this and so much more………..
Tour Membership 02 – 10 Guest.
Explore India and feel the magic that will change your life
Tour Highlights
Itinerary
-
Day 1:
Arrive Mumbai, India
Arrive in Mumbai, and your Explore India representative meets and transfers you to your hotel which is called the landmark of Mumbai.
Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: The Taj Mahal Palace HotelThe Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
-
Day 2:
Mumbai Sightseeing Tour
After breakfast, you will explore the sounds and sights of Mumbai originally known as Bombay, visit the Gateway of India, an 85-foot-high arch whose design reflects India’s Muslim and Hindu traditions. Visit the Prince of Wales Museum and Mani Bhawan, a small museum dedicated to the life and works of Mahatma Gandhi. Later we will see the Dhobi Ghat, the largest open-air laundry in the world, and witness hundreds of men and women hand-wash sheets and garments etc.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: The Taj Mahal Palace HotelThe Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
-
Day 3:
Mumbai – Udaipur & Elephanta Caves
This morning we will cruise from Mumbai Harbour to Elephanta Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 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. Later this afternoon, fly to Udaipur and transfer to your luxury romantic Palace hotel. Travel and Leisure Magazine rated the Taj Lake one of the best hotels in the world. After settling in, take in the magnificent views of the City Palace and Jag Mandir from the hotel’s balconies.
Later this evening enjoy cooking, along with dinner with a family that has played a significant role in the affairs of the state over the centuries. Such was the faith of the Maharana that the family served as Prime Ministers, valued advisors and official hosts to all the dignitaries visiting Mewar as state Guests.
The family has had the distinction of serving their cuisine to the Queen Elizabeth, Jacqueline Kennedy and Pandit Jawarlal Nehru the first prime minister of independent India.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Taj Lake Palace, UdaipurTaj Lake Palace, Udaipur
Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, Indiahttps://taj.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj-lake-palace-udaipur/?utm_medium=Local&utm_source=Google&utm_campaign=Taj-Lake-Palace-Udaipur+91 294 242 8800Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur, is the most romantic hotel in the world. It was built in 1746 as the pleasure palace of Maharana Jagat Singh II
Taj Lake Palace is one of the most recognisable residences in the world , since it has been featured in many films and TV serials, most notably, Octopussy and The Jewel in The Crown.
-
-
Day 4:
Udaipur | Private Cruise to Jag Mandir Island
We will enjoy a sightseeing tour visiting City Palace, a conglomeration of buildings added by various Maharanas; the palace manages to retain a surprising uniformity of design. Then head to the crystal Gallery, It has a rare collection of Osler’s crystal ordered from England by Maharana Sajjan Singh in 1877. Next, we will visit the Garden of the Maids of Honor locally called Saheliyon ki Bari, which has retained all its traditional charm. It was designed in the early 18th Century for the ladies Afternoon at leisure. In the evening 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: Taj Lake Palace, UdaipurTaj Lake Palace, Udaipur
Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, Indiahttps://taj.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj-lake-palace-udaipur/?utm_medium=Local&utm_source=Google&utm_campaign=Taj-Lake-Palace-Udaipur+91 294 242 8800Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur, is the most romantic hotel in the world. It was built in 1746 as the pleasure palace of Maharana Jagat Singh II
Taj Lake Palace is one of the most recognisable residences in the world , since it has been featured in many films and TV serials, most notably, Octopussy and The Jewel in The Crown.
-
-
Day 5:
Udaipur – Pushkar & Lord Brahma Temples
After breakfast we drive to Pushkar, along the way you will experience the country with camel carts,, trucks, cows, buffalos, Pushkar has many temples and most of the temples are not very old because many temples were destroyed during Muslim conquests in the area subsequently, the destroyed temples were rebuilt. The most famous among all is the Brahma Temple built during the 14th century CE. Very few temples to Lord Brahma exist anywhere in the world, arrive and check into the hotel. Later we will take a short camel. Next, we will explore the Ghats and the Temples around the Pushkar Lake Overnight stay in Pushkar.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: The Gateway Resort PushkarThe Gateway Resort Pushkar
-
Day 6:
Pushkar – Jaipur | The Pink City
After morning breakfast we drive to Jaipur, 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. Arrive in Jaipur and check in at the hotel. The evening is at leisure.
Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Taj Jai Mahal Palace, JaipurTaj Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur
Jacob Road, Civil Lines, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302006, Indiahttps://taj.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj-jai-mahal-palace-jaipur/+91 141 660 1111Step into a 270-year-old Indo-Saracenic architectural masterpiece set amidst landscaped Mughal gardens at Taj Jai Mahal Palace in Jaipur.At this luxury heritage hotel, you experience unparalleled opulence with tantalising comforts. With its blend of heritage, elegance and luxury, you experience an exclusive royal lifestyle at this hotel.
-
-
Day 7:
Jaipur - Amber Fort & Maharaja Palace
In the morning after breakfast, enjoy an excursion to Amber Fort including an elephant ride ascent to the fort. 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: Breakfast, LunchAccommodation: Taj Jai Mahal Palace, JaipurTaj Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur
Jacob Road, Civil Lines, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302006, Indiahttps://taj.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj-jai-mahal-palace-jaipur/+91 141 660 1111Step into a 270-year-old Indo-Saracenic architectural masterpiece set amidst landscaped Mughal gardens at Taj Jai Mahal Palace in Jaipur.At this luxury heritage hotel, you experience unparalleled opulence with tantalising comforts. With its blend of heritage, elegance and luxury, you experience an exclusive royal lifestyle at this hotel.
-
-
Day 8:
Jaipur – Agra & Ghost Town
After breakfast, leave for Agra, en route, visit the abandoned Mughal city of 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 which are still preserved in their original glory. Continue drive to Agra. Remaining of the day at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, LunchAccommodation: ITC Mughal – A Luxury Collection Hotel, AgraITC Mughal – A Luxury Collection Hotel, Agra
Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, Indiahttps://www.itchotels.in/hotels/agra/itcmughal.html+91 562 402 1700 -
-
Day 9:
Agra & Taj Mahal
In the morning visit the world famous Taj Mahal built by Moghul Emperor Shahjahan in 1630 for his Queen Mumtaz Mahal to enshrine her mortal remains. Later visit the Agra Fort containing the Halls of Public and Private Audience. After breakfast, enjoy a city tour of Agra. 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; Itmad-ud-daulah, which was constructed by Nur Jahan between 1622 and 1628 and is very similar to the tomb she constructed for her husband, Jehangir, near Lahore in Pakistan.
Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: ITC Mughal – A Luxury Collection Hotel, AgraITC Mughal – A Luxury Collection Hotel, Agra
Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, Indiahttps://www.itchotels.in/hotels/agra/itcmughal.html+91 562 402 1700 -
-
Day 10:
Agra –Jhansi – Orcha & Indian Railway
Morning transfer to railway station to board the famous Shitbdi express train to Jhansi, Arrive Jhansi & drive to Orchha & transfer to hotel. Later tour of this historical site with magnificent temples and monuments. Some of the palaces were decorated with painted murals which represent the finest flowering of the Bundela school of painting.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Amar MahalAmar Mahal
-
Day 11:
Orcha – Khajuraho & Kamasutra
After breakfast we drive to the medieval temples of Khajuraho, these temples dedicated to the Hindu pantheon of Gods are covered in carvings that are a paean to life and love. Built within a short span of a hundred years by the Chandela Rajputs, the 10th-century temples lay forgotten until they were discovered in the present century. Khajuraho has achieved fame for the sensual appeal of its erotic sculptures. Arrive Khajuraho & transfer to hotel
After breakfast drive to Khajuraho, The legendary temples of Khajuraho are an incomparable experience. Acknowledged as one of the world’s artistic wonders, these temples dedicated to the Hindu pantheon of Gods are covered in carvings that are a paean to life and love. Built within a short span of a hundred years by the Chandela Rajputs, the 10th-century temples lay forgotten until they were discovered in the present century. Khajuraho has achieved fame for the sensual appeal of its erotic sculptures. Arrive Khajuraho & transfer to hotel. Later explore the Western and Eastern temples of Khajuraho while your guide explains the intricate meaning and legends behind each describable sculpture.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Radisson Jass KhajurahoRadisson Jass Khajuraho
बायपास मार्ग, MP SH 9, Khajuraho, 471606, Indiahttp://www.radisson.com/khajurahoin+91 78989 18433ituated within five kilometres of the Civil Aerodrome Khajuraho airport (HJR), Radisson Hotel Khajuraho is an ideal place to stay while visiting area attractions. Our hotel lies less than two kilometres from many historic Hindu and Jain temples, including the Western Group of Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Panna National Park, famous for its tigers and the impressive Pandav Falls, is less than an hour away.
-
-
Day 12:
Khajuraho – Varanasi & Holy Ganges
After breakfast, fly to Varanasi, a city of more than a thousand Hindu and Buddhist temples and shrines, sacred to Hindus and Buddhists, Arrive and transfer to your hotel. Later this evening you will continue on to banks of the Ganges for evening rituals to witness the devotional ceremony of Aarti after sunset performed by devout Hindus. Take in the sounds of chanted prayers and rhythmic drumming as you watch the Hindu priests — holding lanterns to keep the darkness at bay.
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.
-
-
Day 13:
Varanasi – Boat Cruise & Temples
Early morning at dawn you will take a sunrise cruise on the River Ganges for a most serene experience. You will see pilgrims and priests fill the riverbanks bathing in the holy waters and performing various other rituals. This unique experience literally transports you to another world. After breakfast, visit the Bharat Mata Temple, which houses a huge marble relief map of India, the Durga Temple, the Tulsi Manas Mandir beside the Banaras Hindu University and the Mosque of Mughal Emperor Aurangazeb. The city is famous also for its silk sarees and we visit some of the houses where the beautiful silk sarees are woven.
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.
-
-
Day 14:
Varanasi – Delhi & India’s Capital
After breakfast, fly to Delhi India’s capital. On arrival, you will be met by an Explore India representative and transfer to your hotel.
Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: The Taj Mahal Hotel, DelhiThe Taj Mahal Hotel, Delhi
No.1, Man Singh Road, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, Indiahttps://taj.tajhotels.com/en-in/the-taj-mahal-hotel-new-delhi/?utm_source=Google&utm_campaign=The-Taj-Mahal-Hotel-New-Delhi&utm_medium=Local+91 11 6656 6162The Taj Mahal Hotel is a five-star deluxe hotel located in the very heart of New Delhi. On Number One Mansingh Road, it stands as tribute to timeless hospitality and service, complementing the broad leafy boulevards of Delhi’s chief architect, Sir Edwin Lutyens. Its proximity to the seat of government, the city’s diplomatic corps, and entertainment, heritage and business districts has furthered the hotel’s reputation as the epicentre of the capital. Prominent landmarks – India Gate, the Presidential Palace and the National Museum – are a short 10-minute drive away.
The glorious Mughal architecture, dramatic façade of pink Dholpur sandstone, impeccable gardens and pool give it the ambience of a luxurious in-city haven.
All around, grandeur meets understated elegance. Antiques, priceless art, and traditional accents & colours are impeccably woven together with contemporary style and modern amenities. Stay in our 292 luxurious rooms and grand suites, all of which offer stunning aerial views of Delhi’s historic skyline, or at our one-of-a-kind Presidential Suite, all perfected to host dignitaries and celebrities from across the globe.
-
-
Day 15:
Old & New Delhi
In the morning tour of Old Delhi, built in 1648 during the reign of Shah Jahan in red sandstone, visit the Jama Masjid which is India’s largest mosque, built of red sandstone and white marble in the middle of the 17th century which gave the fort its name. Ride Like a Local as you set off on an exciting rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, the bustling main street of Old Delhi, inching your way through a maze of ox carts filled with fresh produce, cars and the occasional wandering cow. Pause for lunch, and then visit New Delhi, including Humayun’s Tomb, a Mughal complex whose symmetrical designs prefigured the Taj Mahal.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: The Taj Mahal Hotel, DelhiThe Taj Mahal Hotel, Delhi
No.1, Man Singh Road, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, Indiahttps://taj.tajhotels.com/en-in/the-taj-mahal-hotel-new-delhi/?utm_source=Google&utm_campaign=The-Taj-Mahal-Hotel-New-Delhi&utm_medium=Local+91 11 6656 6162The Taj Mahal Hotel is a five-star deluxe hotel located in the very heart of New Delhi. On Number One Mansingh Road, it stands as tribute to timeless hospitality and service, complementing the broad leafy boulevards of Delhi’s chief architect, Sir Edwin Lutyens. Its proximity to the seat of government, the city’s diplomatic corps, and entertainment, heritage and business districts has furthered the hotel’s reputation as the epicentre of the capital. Prominent landmarks – India Gate, the Presidential Palace and the National Museum – are a short 10-minute drive away.
The glorious Mughal architecture, dramatic façade of pink Dholpur sandstone, impeccable gardens and pool give it the ambience of a luxurious in-city haven.
All around, grandeur meets understated elegance. Antiques, priceless art, and traditional accents & colours are impeccably woven together with contemporary style and modern amenities. Stay in our 292 luxurious rooms and grand suites, all of which offer stunning aerial views of Delhi’s historic skyline, or at our one-of-a-kind Presidential Suite, all perfected to host dignitaries and celebrities from across the globe.
-
-
Day 16:
Depart Delhi
In time Explore India representative will transfer you to the international airport for your flight home.
All good things must come to an end. We hope you enjoyed your vacation and we look forward to welcoming you soon on your next adventure.
What’s included
- Roundtrip Airfare onboard Air Canada*
- Hand-selected accommodation in 5-star luxury hotels & resorts
- Airport meet and greet with private group transfers
- Daily breakfast, plus 8 dinners and 4 lunches
- English-Speaking resident tour manager and local guides
- Extensive sightseeing tours
- Cultural programs
- Indian cooking class with a local family in Udaipur
- Air-conditioned transportation
- Unlimited bottled water during sightseeing tours
- Snacks on board during long drives
- Entry tickets to monuments
- Internal airfares
- Free Wi-Fi
- 24/7 Explore India On-Call Support
What’s excluded
- Personal expenses, laundry, bar bills, phone bills, etc.
- Any other sightseeing other than mentioned in the program
- Services other than in our inclusion
- Gratuities
- Additional taxes $473
Select a gateway:
Prices include Roundtrip Airfare from - to India.
You May Also Like
Recent Reviews
We are still talking about our fabulous India trip. Have meant to email you dozens of times---life just gets in the way! Thank you Nazir, we had an amazing time and you can't help but fall in love with that country and her people. Of course the extra bonus was only 6 of us on the tour the first 2 weeks and only the Rhodes and us the last 2 weeks. We really felt spoiled and pampered! We will highly recommend you and your company. Namaste.
Patty and Jack Clerkson
West Vancouver, Canada
I never use travel agents, taking great pride in thinking I do a better job and I certainly hate group tours. However, when I decided to take my daughter to India, I felt that perhaps, just this time, it might be wise to seek professional help. I researched several tour companies and was about to book a bus tour accomodating up to 30 passengers, when I noticed Nazir's ad in the Vancovuer Sun. I telephoned and instantly took to this delightful man. His no pressure approach was certainly appreciated and I quickly realized he was an expert on India. To my delight, I also discovered his private tour for just my daughter and I, in a private car, in 5 star hotels vs the student type accomodations offered by GAP tours, was just a few hundred $ more than their huge group tour. We then began our planning which would drive most agents mad, with me hopping all over Rajastan now that I could pick my own itinery. After numerous changes, we were finally on our way. Nazir arranged the very best seat in economy on British Airways. The hotels were fabulous, the drivers and tour guides represented all of the various cultural groups of India. We were impressed to see Sikhs, Muslims, and Hindus all working harmoniously together. They could teach the world a lesson. I must admit, I am a high maintainence client and had several demands, all of which Nazir completed graciously and efficiently. He phoned us along the way to ensure all was well and no demand was too much for him. I would and have, recommended Nazir to everyone and anyone. It was a trip of a lifetime and Nazir made it so.
Margaret Stuart
I wanted to express our feelings and reactions to the recent trip to India. We thank you for the extraordinary efforts you made to give us a truly memorable experience. I had reservations about an organized group activity, since we have done a fair amount of travel, but usually on our own. My main objections to such a trip were: we would not have time to explore individually, and we would be stuck if we did not enjoy the journey. Let me say that neither situation developed. Our excellent guide for the majority of the trip gave us clear information on the sites of interest and allowed some time for personal exploration. Moreover, the experiences we encountered were so diversified, that even if a person chose not to be included in one aspect, he was presented with a wonderful alternative. What comes to mind here, is especially the evening dinner at a palace , or an evening of cooking instruction in Indian food. Even our flight to India was flexible, allowing for a personal extended week in Germany. The hotels and food were amazing, accommodating all types of needs, even vegan. City visits were exciting with rickshaw transportation, shopping, a visit to the famous slums of Mumbai and to Mother Teresa's Mission. Entertainment varied from watching distinctive dances to elephant and camel rides. And let's not forget the historic world heritage sites, especially the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal. It took my breath away. This was the best-organized, most interesting trip imaginable.
Tim & Ilona Salley
Toronto, Canada
Namaste Nazir Thanks for your note. You were certainly right about India being a Trip of a Lifetime and an adventure. We are so glad we went. We saw so many wonderful and awesome sights, and some we would rather not see. We did more adventures for fun, as in our elephant and camel rides, than we could ever imagine doing at home. Our tour guide, Yujurc, was exceptionally knowledgeable, very patient and always helpful. Our bus driver, Mr. Singh, was amazing to say the least and Surrinder treated us with help and respect and we were always happy to see his very kind smiling face. India is truly an amazing country with so many diversities and wonders to behold. We would not hesitate to recommend your tour company. We were very well looked after, and we never had to wait for Yujurc to lead us. When he said we were going to go somewhere or do something, that is what we did. Our flights were long but uneventful. Travel has always been an education for us, never more so than on our trip to India. Thank you,
Donna and Joe Treffers
Ottawa, Canada
Having just returned to Canada from our Explore India trip, I wanted to thank you for providing such a well managed and enjoyable adventure. The tour was very well organized, covered a lot of ground and gave us a good insight into the history of India and its people. Your attention to detail in all aspects of the trip was exemplary and your personal touches and caring to all of us on the tour was much appreciated. No request, whether large or small, was too much for you and your staff. Thank you. I would recommend anyone planning a trip to India to speak to you first. They will not be disappointed.
Alan and Marie Summers
Dear Mandira and Nazir, We had a really wonderful time. Our guide was very professional, informative and warm which really makes a huge difference when going with a group..and we could not have been luckier group wise- everyone was friendly and engaged. The hotels were all extremely good. We really enjoyed the range of food, the optional cookery session was a real insight into family life- a most delightful family. We really enjoyed the performance in Kerala. It was such a pity the performers did not have a larger audience Thank you all at Explore India for such a professional and friendly service. We will most definitely recommend your company to anyone thinking of going to India. Kind regards Catriona
Catriona Stares
London UK, United Kingdom
This past January we had a wonderful escorted five day tour of India. Nazir of Explore India put the tour together, hosted it, and we couldn't be more satisfied with his knowledge of the country, his enthusiasm, and his jovial personality. If you're thinking of a trip to India, and you're a little hesitant to do it all on your own, then call Nazir and let him do all the heavy lifting. Nazir looked after all the details, from hotel reservations, luggage, check-ins, meals, and entertainment. The hotels were all first class, the meals and restaurant venues second to none, and the entertainment something we won't soon forget... elephant rides and fireside suppers are only a few of the highlights we loved. Call Nazir. He will look after all the little things and you can sit back and enjoy. You won't spend one minute worrying about a thing.
Steve and Robyn Moran
Sidney, Canada
Dear Nazir Karnai, President of Explore India, This note is to heartily thank the Explore India Staff (EI) of Rajeev Sharma, Head of Operations, Mendura by telephone, our main driver & assistant, and other drivers and personnel who assisted us for Explore India. When Canadians say, ‘nothing was too much trouble’, we may sometimes exaggerate, but in the case of EI, nothing could have been more apt and honest. No detail was too small, from our initial bookings and EI contacts by telephone to the ease we felt through each thread of the trip. Our destination was India, but our journey was irreplaceable. I would not hesitate to highly recommend EI to anyone who asks and will do so as I write my freelance piece and attach it to my blog (charlesbeale.com). Thank you. My gratitude and I believe I can speak for the whole group, would not be complete without further thanks to our EI tour guide, Harry Singh, but in this response, I will only speak for myself. Harry taught me many things. He and India are delightful enigmas. Not only was he the best tour guide I have ever had, but he became a kind of personal guru, banker, time manager, and friend. Tour guides come and go, but Harry lives and breathes his beloved India so much so that some of that rubbed off on each and every one of us. In fact, there were times when we had to rein him in, such was his enthusiasm. Harry describes himself as a spiritual healer, and again, some of that personal belief affected us most strongly and positively. He became our personal banker due to the demonetization that began just as we arrived in the country. Without his purse, some of us would have been in dire straits; without his knowledge of how to manage the monetary change, we would have become nervous travellers. Although we sometimes worried about time, as many Westerners do, Harry was able to manage India time for us smoothly and in an unruffled manner. He is also the best-dressed tour guide I have ever encountered. In the end, as the peaceful and kind people of India showed us, Harry was able to deepen our meaning of empathy and love. I would, however, request that in future, Harry assigns more tourists to keep the ledgers for the counting of other than cows. Most sincerely yours,
Charles Beale
Bath, Canada
Hello Nazir My apologies for the delayed response, but we got home from India and were right back at it with work and Christmas preparations and festivities. I now want to take a moment to thank you and all the people in your organization for making our trip AMAZING. You helped us experience the many sides of India (colours, tastes, sounds, people, cities, countrysides, etc), while also helping us understand its history, culture, politics, environment, evolution and challenges. While I am aware of, and appreciate, all the work put in by your 'behind the scenes' team, I have to say that the one person we spent every day with really helped contribute to making our experience positive and very meaningful. Yazur's knowledge, humor, professionalism and communication skills were much appreciated. He went above and beyond to provide exceptional service to us too - helping individuals (including me) find that special something we were looking for. Thank you Yazur!! I was awestruck by the Taj Mahal and pleasantly surprised by the impact the Amber Fort had on me. Seeing the tigers in both the morning and afternoon trip through Ranthambore's park was also a highlight - and much appreciated. The chaos of the traffic moving through the streets was unexpected and quite entertaining too. Both Harry and I would highly recommend your organization to others considering a trip to India. All the best to you and your team for a happy, healthy and successful 2016!! Cheers
Irene and Harry Schamhart
Victoria, 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
Tour Extensions
Check & Compare
You can read hundreds of online reviews of destinations and hotels, but with our up-to-date first-hand knowledge, we will be able to compare and contrast different options and ensure we find something that is just right for you.
You will travel to India like a member of our own family. Our deep love and passion for India and its people, we are a family owned and operated luxury travel company.
Planning a trip needs careful care and attention to detail and that is where Explore India comes in with the passion to make every tour a hassle-free and memorable one for each of our guests.
Be sure to take notice of our standard of accommodation, the specialized sightseeing trips, the seamless flow of the itinerary, the comfort of the coach you will travel in, the customized dining experiences, and much more.
FEEL CONFIDENT TRAVELING WITH EXPLORE INDIA
No company is big or small when you have 100% capability of exceeding guest expectations. A rating of 10 out of 10 does not adequately reflect the level of the experience and value of the tour that we provide to India especially for the first time visitors. Explore India’s success can be traced all the way back to those early days of learning what it means to be a host and to this day, our motto is to treat the guest like a member of the family. A sure testimonial to the business, given the fact that many Canadians have travelled not one, not twice, but three times with Explore India, the early teachings seem to have paid off, as touring to India with us is a sought-after experience in Canada and beyond.