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Overview
Described as “Gods Own Country”, the lush tropics of Kerala is a haven for the mind and body. Whether you are cruising along the canals of Kerala’s backwaters listening to the music of an amazing variety of tropical birds or if you are experiencing an unforgettable, traditional Ayurvedic massage, Kerala is sure to invigorate your soul and revive your senses. Kerala’s history is closely linked with its commerce, which, until recent times, revolved around its spice trade. Celebrated as the Spice Coast of India, ancient Kerala played host to travelers and traders from across the world including the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, French, and British. The influence of the traders can be appreciated through the delectable cuisine of Kerala which will tempt your palette as you are enticed by the aromatic scents of the incredible assortment of the famous dishes of Kerala. This journey to Kerala is a great opportunity to relax and enjoy the serenity of this coastal paradise while at the same time be intrigued and entertained by the experiences available to you.
Tour Highlights
- This unique journey begins in Kochi, otherwise known as Cochin, a major city in South India which borders on the Arabian Sea.
- Take a tour through Cochin which offers a chance to stroll through the quaint city where you will see daily life in this tropical part of India.
- Visit a tea plantation in Munnar where we learn about the cultural, historical, and economic significance of tea in South India.
- Embark on an exciting voyage aboard the famous houseboats of Kerala where we spend the night gazing at the stars as we float along the backwaters of this incredible land. This journey to Kerala is a great opportunity to relax and enjoy the serenity of this coastal paradise while at the same time be intrigued and entertained by the experiences available to you.
Itinerary
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Day 1:
Fly to Kochi
After breakfast transfer to domestic airport to board your flight for Kochi. Upon arrival our representative will greet you at Kochi Airport and then transfer to the hotel.
Cochin the queen of the Arabian Sea is one of the most interesting cities of India and has one of the finest natural harbors in the world. A root-conscious people of Kerala have preserved their past not only in the form of history books but also in the form of monuments and palaces. Places, palaces and institutions of historic value are being preserved conscientiously.
Cochin Sightseeing – Paradesi Synagogue, Dutch Palace, St Francis Church, built in 1510 by friars brought to India by Vasco da Gama, is the first European church built in India and is the site where Vasco da Gama was buried.
By Evening, enjoy Greenix Show which is a kaleidoscope of Indian classical art forms and martial arts. Showcasing quintessentially magnificent vignettes of Kerala’s rich cultural traditions, Kaleidoscope Kerala is essentially an exclusive, uniquely choreographed repertoire of live classical dance and music performed in a heritage theatre with legendary ritualistic folk invocations and martial arts. It is a medley of many authentic dances of Kerala, especially the sheer splendor of a magical rendezvous with the languid, mellifluously lyrical and graceful Mohiniattam, dance of the enchantress – exquisitely devotional for some, sublimely sensual for others; the rigorously codified majestic spectacle of Kathakali, Kerala’s trademark dance drama instantly recognizable for its dazzling regalia and trance-inducing rhythms, the stunningly totemic and surreally oracular manifestation of the divine in the folk tradition of Theyyam, among a breathtaking mélange of inimitable performing art forms accompanied by soul-stirring ensembles of pristine musical genres, dominated by the mesmerizing roll of the ‘demonic’ drum, chenda.”Return to your hotel. Overnight stay at the Hotel.Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Fragrant Nature KochiFragrant Nature Kochi
Bazaar Rd, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682001, Indiahttp://www.fragrantnature.com/HotelsKochi+91 484 221 3600Fort Kochi. Queen of the Arabian Sea. Cradle of the ancient Spice Route. Sanctuary for seafarers and adventurers. Start your day by walking down the streets of history. Explore the eateries, taste their eclectic cuisine. Survey the emporiums and antique markets. Ponder the mechanism of the Chinese Fishing nets. Blend with the dynamics of the spice markets. Listen to the multilingual rhythms of a cosmopolitan conversation. Photograph colonial-era buildings. Let your soul go supine in historic churches, synagogues and grottos.
Fragrant Nature, Kochi—a boutique 5 star hotel—features contemporary styled rooms with magnificent views of the harbour. Located in the erstwhile office of East India Company, the majestic facade with a clock tower is a landmark. The hotel features period trompe-l’œil art work by two popular English artists in the lobby—emphasising importance of art element in the boutique design. Loose yourself to the breathtaking luxury, underlined by world-class hospitality and service. Explore a range of cuisines at the famed specialty restaurant—a dining experience conjured with choicest flavours. Watch your stress and little niggles seep away with the luxuriant Ayurvedic massages at the state-of-the-art Spa—its leading highlight.
It’s more than superlatives. It’s more than what you see. It’s about you. Simply be you.
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Day 2:
Kochi
After breakfast proceed to visit Kumbalangi, a village located outside Cochin and is identified as the first model fisheries village in India. On arrival at the village board a country boat to reach mainland and you can see the village folk engaged in different activities for their livelihood, may be a woman in her village provision shop, a farmer in his paddy field, a fisherman spreading his net, a kid with a fishing net ….it goes on. Later enjoy a sumptuous lunch which will tickle your taste buds. After lunch take a ‘tuk-tuk’ ride through the narrow country roads and you will be dropped to the car parking point.
After lunch drive back to hotel & free for independent activities & shopping.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Fragrant Nature KochiFragrant Nature Kochi
Bazaar Rd, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682001, Indiahttp://www.fragrantnature.com/HotelsKochi+91 484 221 3600Fort Kochi. Queen of the Arabian Sea. Cradle of the ancient Spice Route. Sanctuary for seafarers and adventurers. Start your day by walking down the streets of history. Explore the eateries, taste their eclectic cuisine. Survey the emporiums and antique markets. Ponder the mechanism of the Chinese Fishing nets. Blend with the dynamics of the spice markets. Listen to the multilingual rhythms of a cosmopolitan conversation. Photograph colonial-era buildings. Let your soul go supine in historic churches, synagogues and grottos.
Fragrant Nature, Kochi—a boutique 5 star hotel—features contemporary styled rooms with magnificent views of the harbour. Located in the erstwhile office of East India Company, the majestic facade with a clock tower is a landmark. The hotel features period trompe-l’œil art work by two popular English artists in the lobby—emphasising importance of art element in the boutique design. Loose yourself to the breathtaking luxury, underlined by world-class hospitality and service. Explore a range of cuisines at the famed specialty restaurant—a dining experience conjured with choicest flavours. Watch your stress and little niggles seep away with the luxuriant Ayurvedic massages at the state-of-the-art Spa—its leading highlight.
It’s more than superlatives. It’s more than what you see. It’s about you. Simply be you.
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Day 3:
Kochi – Munnar
After breakfast drive to Munnar, the place where the unfolded green carpet is waiting for you. Munnar is breathtakingly beautiful, a haven of peace and tranquility – the idyllic tourist destination in God’s own country. Munnar is the gateway of Hills in South India. Munnar was the favored summer resort of the erstwhile British rulers in the colonial days On the way you can also watch the adorable waterfalls in Cheeyappara. Arrive and check-in at the hotel. Relax for a while amidst the comforts of your room. Explore rest of the day along with the nature. Overnight stay at the Hotel/Resort.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Fragrant Nature MunnarFragrant Nature Munnar
Bison Valley - Pooppara Rd, Pothemmedu, Munnar, Kerala 685612, Indiahttps://www.fragrantnature.com/HotelsMunnar+91-4868-257-800Experience highlands
The shrill whistle of a bird. Somewhere, a window opens. Voila! A stunning view of mist-clad mountains. Feel the chill of the magnificent heights. Drink in the crisp air. Hug your woolens tight. Watch the sun idle on the sweeping meadows. Gently calling you outdoors. Time to set your inner compass. Hike through the breathtaking scenery. Caress the dew-scaled tea-leaves. Engage in silent conversation with a timid Nilgiri Tahr. Witness the Neelakurinji bloom. Draw deep on the fragrance of nature. Discover your soul.
Fragrant Nature—a luxury 5-star hotel with the finest vantage views of the verdant mountains—is situated in a choice location of Munnar. Lose yourself to the postcard scenery, underlined by world-class hospitality and service. Fragrant Nature Munnar is styled similar to local planter bungalows with cozy fireplaces in every room. Our All-day dining restaurant showcases the best of North/South Indian & Arab delicacies with the choicest ingredients and exotic pairing. Watch your stress and little worries seep away with the luxuriant Ayurvedic spa massages at the state-of-the-art Spa—its leading highlight.
It’s more than superlatives. It’s more than what you see. It’s about you. Be you.
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Day 4:
Munnar
After the breakfast proceed for a morning sightseeing trip of Munnar; visiting the Eravikulam National Park where you can see the very rare mountain goats locally called the Nilgiri Tahr, as well Tata Tea Museum. Proceed to Mattupetty Dam site and Kundala which offers many alluring sights to relish. Kundala is a picturesque town located at the confluence of three mountain streams namely Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. Stop by to see the colourful flowers in Blossom Garden. Overnight stay at the Hotel/Resort.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Devonshire Greens Leisure HotelDevonshire Greens Leisure Hotel
Attukad Waterfall Road, Pallivasal P.O,, Munnar, Kerala 685612, Indiahttp://devonshiregreens.com/+91 85920 01044Welcome to Devonshire greens, a Premium luxury resort in Munnar that makes your holiday the most memorable among the best resorts in Munnar. Perched on the edges of mountains with scintillating view of relentless tea plantations and rich flora and Fauna, this mesmerizing holiday resort in Munnar enchants the tourists by its visually appealing sights.
Nestled in silence, enriching harmony in tune with nature with a variety of trees and birds, the resort occupies major tourist attractions. Offering stunning views along with unrivaled services and excellent food, Devonshire is exceptionally counted as the best among resorts in Munnar.
Devonshire greens resort Munnar, one of the top resorts in Munnar, makes your holiday in Munnar the most memorable. Devonshire Greens resort, a premium luxury resorts in Munnar is exceptionally counted as the best among resorts and hotels in Munnar.
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Day 5:
Munnar – Thekkady (Periyar)
After the breakfast proceed to Thekkady which offers diverse attractions like Wildlife Sanctuary, Hill Station and Spice Plantation. Natures own little hideout nestled in the hills of Thekkady.
Afternoon proceed to the attractive Wild life Sanctuary. The place where you go for a Wildlife cruise to view a large variety of wildlife like Wild Elephants, Nilgiri Langur, Sambar Deer, Wild Bison, Wild Boar etc, and quite a lot of unique birds can also be spotted. Evening visit Spice plantation & drive back to hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Greenwoods ResortGreenwoods Resort
K.K .Road, Kumily, Thekkady, Kumily, 685509, Indiahttps://www.greenwoods.in/+91 94465 74383Greenwoods is a luxury nature resort in Kerala located in Thekkady. Plan your visit to the verdant locale surrounded by dense forests and be settled comfortably in this premier Thekkady resort. Trek through the spice plantations, hill slopes and explore the naturally-endowed location. Wake up to the melody of birds, walk through the green orchards and enjoy discovering the serene, pure and unpolluted environs of Thekkady. Settle comfortably in Greenwoods, the premier 5-star resort in Kerala, plan your nature explorations and transform your visit to the green country as an exhilarating experience.
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Day 6:
Thekkady – Alleppey (Back Water Cruise on Houseboat)
After the breakfast proceed Alleppey boat Jetty to board the beautifully decorated houseboat and begin the enchanting backwater cruising. The backwaters of Kerala is a unique product of Kerala and is found no where else in the world. A glide in a “Kettuvallam” (Houseboat) through the enchanting backwaters is sure to rob your heart. You’re in a watery universe, so quiet, even you can hear your own blood pumping around your head. Sparkling greens, emerald backwaters, coir-laden houseboats and magical beauty heals your mind and body as you travel to surreal Kerala. Overnight stay in the Houseboat.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Lakes And LagoonsLakes And Lagoons
Near Pallathuruthy Bridge, Kochupalam Road, Pallathuruthy, Alappuzha, Kerala 688003, Indiahttp://lakeslagoons.com/index.php+91 477 226 6842Lakes & Lagoons is the first & only ISO 9001 – 2015 certified Houseboat Tour Company in kerala. With a fleet of more than 25 luxury Houseboat, Lakes & Lagoons offer the best backwater cruise journeys. Situated in Alleppey – A real natural treasure house, visually splendid with the blue of the lake & the green of the palms & vegetation, active with the aquatic life & local villages engaged in everyday errands.
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Day 7:
Alleppey – Kochi – Delhi
Dis-embark from the house boat and then we will begin 2 hour drive to Kochi airport to board your flight for Delhi. On arrival at Delhi airport you are met by our local representative and transfer to your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Novotel New Delhi AerocityNovotel New Delhi Aerocity
Asset No 02 Gmr Hospitality District, Igi Airport New Delhi, New Delhi, Delhi 110037, Indiahttps://all.accor.com/hotel/7560/index.en.shtml+91-11-4608-0808The hotel is located adjacent to both international & domestic airport terminals and is well connected through the Airport Express Line, just 5 minutes away. The Novotel New Delhi Aerocity is near the business hubs of Gurgaon, New Delhi, and Cyber City. It is also located close to Delhi’s shopping malls, including DLF Promenade, Emporio, and Worldmark. A big complex of 670 rooms, Novotel and Pullman New Delhi Aerocity, is a preferred destination for both business & leisure travelers.
Novotel New Delhi Aerocity has Food Exchange, a Multi-Cuisine Buffet restaurant offering an exceptional culinary experience comprising Indian, Asian and European flavors coupled with an impeccable ambiance. Further, Quoin is a 24×7 Sports Bar. The ballroom and meeting spaces at Novotel and Pullman New Delhi Aerocity are known for Car launches, Product launches, Medical Seminars, Expos, and Exhibitions. Being one of the biggest ballrooms in Delhi NCR, it provides bespoke MICE offerings.
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Day 8:
Delhi – Home
In time you are met by an Explore India representative and transferred to international airport for your onward journey.
What’s included
- Accommodation as per the program in one double room
- Daily breakfast and dinner throughout the program plus 1 lunch
- Meet and assist along with escorted transfers
- Premium houseboat backwater cruise in Alleppey with full board
- Air Conditioned chauffeured driven vehicle
- Services of an Explore India experienced tour guides
- Kathakali dance show at Cochin
- Kumabalangi local Village visit with lunch
- Entrance fees to monuments
- Bottled water during sightseeing tours and all long drives.
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
Add this to your tour!
This is a tour extension. Add this on to a tour of your liking. Contact us on how you can extend your journey.Recent Reviews
Dear Nazir, Not having travelled on a tour prior to this trip, Brian and I were a bit concerned about how the itinerary would work for the two of us who tend to be rather "foot loose and fancy-free”. Our interaction with you and Mandira, while arranging our tour, was very positive, so we were quite hopeful that the tour would be just right for us. Brian and I appreciated your attention to detail, to making sure our needs were met and especially your pre-trip phone call to answer any questions we had. Our positive interaction with Explore India continued with all the staff throughout India. Our first meeting with knowledgeable, efficient, and friendly Rajeev who so competently managed all the details throughout the tour and Harry, our erudite, articulate and enthusiastic guide quickly dispelled any concerns we had. Our drivers were quite wonderful, as they took us through the hectic crowded streets of Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, and Varanasi, and through the rural roads that were crowded with oxen and other animals, keeping us safe at all times. Our assistants, in particular, Amid, were charming, taking great care of us and always providing us with much needed cold water whenever we came back to the bus. Our tour was a small group, and we quickly meddled into a cohesive group, enjoying each other’s company and sharing in the delight of exploring northern India together. The tour suited us perfectly, no name tags to wear other than the first morning when we were introduced to each other, no flags to follow, rather just a group of travellers exploring together. The Impressions of India tour was extremely well organized and the itinerary provided us with the opportunity to see the majority of historical sites in the cities and rural areas we visited. India’s history is complex and the tour and Harry our guide provided us with many insights into the past world and architecture of the Mugals, Rajputs, Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists as well as providing many insights into modern India. All of the sites we visited were both impressive and moving, however, none more so that the shimmering beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra. While we found the cities fascinating, the countryside and its people were more interesting to both of us. A request to stop by the roadside so that I could photograph the women working in the fields turned into an incredible opportunity to stop at a tiny village where we were able to interact with some of the villagers. I think the villagers were as intrigued with us as we were with them. I was very honored to be given a wee, naked baby girl to hold by a shy young mother. Throughout our trip, we continued to have opportunities to interact with the local people, which was a pleasure for all of us. It was quite interesting that in the rural areas, we were considered exotic, and as a result, a number of the locals asked us if they could take photos of us with their children. It didn’t seem to matter that our Hindi was limited to please and thank you and our only Urdu was thank you, or that many people we interacted with had no English, we were able to communicate with smiling eyes and with joy and appreciation for all the children we encountered. A highlight for all of us was an unplanned stop at a government-sponsored school in rural Rajasthan. We arrived just as the whole school, from kindergarten to high school was meeting in the hot, dusty centre courtyard. The children and teachers were thrilled to meet us and we were equally thrilled to meet them. We were introduced individually, including our occupations (or former occupations) and treated with much respect, especially Brian as a former principal, and Tina as a former mathematics teacher. Our decision to sing Oh Canada was completely spontaneous and utterly moving as the nine of us sang with great pride our national anthem to a rapt audience of students and teachers. Three teenage girls then sang the Indian national anthem with sweet young voices again to a rapt audience of staff, students, and Canadians. All too soon it was time to say goodbye as the students returned to their classrooms and we headed off to continue our exploring. Our hotels were luxurious with wonderfully attentive staff. The food was excellent wherever we were with a variety of curries and Indian specialties available at every meal. There was nothing better than freshly baked naan with each and every meal. Street vendors had small carts with the most interesting and delectable food offerings and as our stomachs grew accustomed to the Indian diet, and with our guide Harry’s direction, we were able to try some local specialties including deep fried vegetarian balls dipped into a spicy cilantro sauce, crispy potato samosas, refreshing plan in Varanasi, local sweets, and masala chai made with camel milk at a small remote tea stand. Indian culture is very different than our own and it was important to us that we not judge the people and their ways through our Western eyes but rather just let ourselves experience all that India had to offer. India is a rich and vibrant country that provided us with the most fascinating multi-sensory experiences and gave us just a small glimpse into its world and its warm and welcoming people. We feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to have been there and feel equally fortunate to have found your Explore India company which provided us with such an incredible variety of experiences in a short period of time. We definitely could not have seen as much as we did without your fascinating itinerary. Returning home to a very rainy October, we are already thinking of returning to India, and of course, when we do, we will definitely be in touch to book another trip with you. With warm regards and much appreciation,
Diane Ash & Brian Anderson
Vancouver, Canada
Dear Nazir, I wanted to let you know what a great time we had on our visit to India. We really enjoyed seeing your country, and all of the amazing sites it has to offer. We also found almost everyone we encountered to be very kind and friendly. There is so much beauty in India, and we look forward to visiting again. Everything on the tour was very well coordinated and organized. While I know that some of the people on our trip found the schedule to be a bit too busy for them, I did not think so at all. I believe there was enough down time to rest between locations, and I thought the pace was very good. Our bus driver and his assistant (Ravi & Shankar I believe) were great! They were very friendly and super helpful. I have also never seen anyone who could maneuver a bus like he did! It was amazing the places he managed to take that bus! Lastly, I want to let you know what a great tour guide Arvind was! We really enjoyed having him lead us through the sites of India. He is very knowledgeable and engaging, and his love for your country showed as he described the rich history of the things we saw and answered our questions. I especially enjoyed how if you asked him a question outside of the bus, he would often ask us to wait, and he would answer the question for the entire group on the bus. It made some of the long bus trips very interesting and alleviated some of the monotony of sitting on a bus. He was a great tour guide and I highly recommend him! Thank you all for a great trip. Robin and I really enjoyed our visit. Thank You,
Mark & Robin Nilsson
North Carolina, USA
Good Morning Nazir, Thank you for an amazing adventure!! My experience in India would not have been the same without your excellent trip planning and the caring, knowledgeable men you have guiding us in India. Every day was packed with things to see and so much to learn about the culture and history of the area and its people. Arvind Sharma is extremely passionate about his country and shared so much with us. He looked after every detail and went out of his way to ensure that each of us in his care was looked after and happy. Our bus driver and his assistant were second to none, always smiling, helping us in any way that they could. I have a few friends who are considering a trip to India and are waiting to hear my stories of the trip. I will highly recommend they contact you should they decide to travel next year. Again, thank you for making my trip to India so enjoyable.
Jane Gregory
Nanaimo, Canada
I was just editing our Indian photos and thought I should write you a few words of thanks for a great trip. I can't start to imagine the amount of time and effort that went into organizing and creating such a successful and wonderful experience, and I know you played a major part in that. Your negotiations with the Indian government, prior to our trip, to simplify the visa process and your many flights ahead of us, during the trip , to make sure things flowed smoothly were recognized and much appreciated. The India trip was the longest and most expensive trip we have taken and we knew it would be special. Everything, from the accommodations, food and experiences exceeded our expectations. Many of us commented during the trip "it just keeps getting better". This was not just intended to be a sightseeing trip but a trip to experience India, and we experienced things that most people visiting India would never experience. The three days in Kashmir was a lovely way to end the trip. It is a beautiful part of the country and quite different from the rest of India. In spite of it's proximity to Pakistan, heavy security and strong military presence, people seemed happy, relaxed, peaceful and very friendly. We felt very comfortable and thoroughly enjoyed our time there. Thanks again Nazir for helping make this a trip of a lifetime. Looking forward to seeing you again on future trips.
Bob (and Kay) Hunter
A hearty thank you to you and all involved with Explore India. Angela and I are very pleased with everyone and everything that happened during our tour. attached find an ad for my art show this Saturday at the Two Rivers Art Gallery in Prince George, I managed to finish a few paintings of India for the exhibit. Thank you again!
Jerzy (George) Lesniewicz
Prince George, Canada
Hello Nazir, Thank you for the welcome home note and for all the help you provided before we started our journey. It was truly a very memorable experience. Of the spots, we visited the ones that stick out are naturally the Taj Mahal which is more impressive live than in photos, the ghats in Varanasi to view the use of the Ganges for washing, bathing, praying, cremation, etc and the tea plantations in Kerela. The food was delicious; so many different types of curry to try. The Explore India people in India did a wonder job. The representatives were there to welcome us and facilitate our transfers to the hotels and our check in at the airports. Of special note are the tour guide, the bus driver and the assistant who accompanied us on our trip. The tour guides added so much to our understanding of Indian history, culture, politics, etc. Their explanation at each of sites we visited enhanced our appreciation of the site and its history. The bus drivers are outstanding in navigating the chaotic Indian roads and getting us safely from place to place on time. The assistants too kept the bus clean and supplied us with water and snacks. On the magic India and Varanasi segments our tour guide was Yajur, the driver was Dave and assistant was Shankar; on the Kerela tour the tour guide was Jishoy Kumar, the driver was Sibu and the assistant was Arun. We’ve thanked them but if you have a chance please give them our sincere thanks for making the trip memorable. Would definitely like to take another trip to India. Would definitely use your company to guide us around India. Thank you very much.
Elmer Morishita
Vancouver, Canada
We have arrived home safely. Your team in Delhi is to be commended. We were taken care of so well. Every detail!. Special thanks to Yajur. He saved me when I was so sick I could not eat. Rouf was also exceptional as was Rajeev ( sorry about the spelling) India is an exciting country and we are so Pleased that Explore India has such a fantastic tour with exceptional representatives.
Brian & Carol
Ottawa, Canada
At last I sending you some feedback re our trip. As I said on the phone we were very pleased with experience. We were very impressed with our 2 drivers, Balvinder and Kool, as well as the 3 men at the houseboats. all were very pleasant, helpful and knowledgeable. My personal feeling is that 1 day long drive in kashmir was enough as the roads do not make for a relaxing experience, however we really enjoyed the day trip to Sonamarg. The vegetable market was wonderful. The guide we had in Varanasi was good with the information he gave us, however, The stop at the Bird Sanctuary was really nice and I wish we had been able to have more time there - I know it was an added stop at our request but I think it was very worthwhile to include it in the tour. All the hotels were very good, the Jaipur Marriott was outstanding. Would certainly recommend your company to others.
Carol Cook and Karen Kaler
Vancouver, Canada
First of all a big thank you to you and your team in India for an excellent tour. It was most enjoyable. We would like to mention Rajeev and Yajur in particular. Rajeev was very welcoming and friendly and Yajur was an excellent and very knowledgeable tour guide. Kashmir was very interesting and beautiful - Bashir was very accommodating and we appreciated you calling him periodically to check that our trip was proceeding well. We would definitely recommend Kashmir to friends planning a trip to India. What we really appreciated was the diversity provided whether it be the food (we did go to some excellent restaurants), the monuments that we visited, the rickshaw ride in old Delhi and the nature of Ranthambore NP. The hotels were generally excellent particularly in Srinagar, Agra and Jaipur. Ranthambore was a bit on the rustic side but the setting was good and very close to the park entrance. There was no mix up with bags, and timing and transport coordination was excellent. One thing we really did appreciate was time to relax and have some down time at the hotels.
J & J Roynon
Niagara on the Lake, Canada
Thank you, Nazir. Our entire experience in India has been amazing. You have some very special people working for you. And I sincerely hope that they are appreciated. In particular, I have to mention Raj and Arvind. As you know, Shirley and I arrived two days ahead of the rest of the tour group. We met with Raj who became like a big brother to us. With our safety in mind, Raj continually checked on our well-being, made some terrific suggestions including restaurants and even arranged for us to meet with a numerologist, which had been on our wish list for India. He was always asking us if we were happy and if there was anything else he could do for us. He arranged taxis, made some excellent suggestions and went out of his way to make our dreams a reality. We felt very safe. Arvind was an excellent guide. He gave 150% to everything he did. There is no doubt in my mind that this part of our tour would've been entirely different and not nearly as spectacular had it been anyone different. Arvind was more than a tour guide. He educated us on the history of India, the poverty, spirituality, rituals, food, the different religions and much much more. His day was never over. He was always planning more than was included on our agenda. Surprises and extra activities – he was a very generous man. Very trustworthy and honest. he managed to please everyone on the tour which is no easy feat. I cannot say enough about Arvind. He made our whole trip. Another guide worthy of praise is Lo Chen on the Darjeeling portion of the trip. A very gentle and caring man. He was so amenable to suggestions and also went the extra mile to show us the highlights of this part of the country. Very knowledgeable. I had a fantastic trip. I loved India and I hope one day to return. It has a very special place in my heart. I hope that my comments will be helpful to you and please pass on my thanks to Mandira who always responded quickly to any questions we had and gave us lots of interesting information before we left. Namaste,
Lynn Graham
Kelowna, Canada
Tour Extensions
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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.
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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.