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Overview
INDIA’S LUXURY GANGES VOYAGER RIVER CRUISE & GOLDEN TRIANGLE
Experience the best of India with an enchanting and delightful travel experience. Explore the ancient city of 17th century Delhi, climb aboard a bicycle rickshaw, visit the world’s best-known symbol of love…the unrivaled Taj Mahal, delight in the colorful pink city of Jaipur atop a private elephant ride to the Amber fort.
The colonial décor of the RV Ganges Voyager is the perfect cruise ship to experience the colonial heritage of Bengal. On the banks of the Lower Ganges, the French, Dutch, Danish, Portuguese and English made settlements to trade, preach and farm while local rulers, saints, agriculturalists, musicians and writers created new ways of living as they encountered European commerce, tastes and power. Learn, observe, relax and enjoy on this remarkable tour while staying in luxury and enjoy the care and hospitality of the Ganges Voyager and its crew!
This Explore India Journeys tour is a reflection of our desire to offer our guests a unique experience that no other travel company can offer. Luxury Cruising Through India Tour combines the luxury of touring on land with the added experience of boarding the beautiful RV Ganges Voyager and travelling in this most unique way. You will be escorted to some of the most iconic sites in India while being catered to like royalty whether on land or sea. Enjoy looking out your window and seeing the world fall away slowly as you embark on this most unique look at India and all it has to offer.
Tour Highlights
- Be in awe at a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal and a sunset visit in the evening
- Step back in time as you walk Mahatma Gandhi’s last footsteps before his murder
- Take in the world’s most prominent Sikh Temple, Bangla Gurudawa Sahib and feast on the most extraordinary luncheon sitting you will experience
- Hang on to your hat, as you take an exhilarating rickshaw ride around Delhi
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Agra Fort and Humayun’s Tomb
- Board RV Ganges Voyager (1) and embark on a most unique touring experience
- Visit Mother Theresa’s missionary home and the Memorial Victoria Museum in Kolkata
- Take a walk to the Neo-Classical Hazarduari Palace built in the 19th century
- Enjoy a rickshaw ride cycle rickshaw ride to the Rajbari temples in Kalna and many more amazing adventures await you on this spectacular tour
Itinerary
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Day 1:
Arrival in India (New Delhi)
Welcome to Incredible India. Upon arrival at Indira Gandhi international airport you will be greeted by our Explore India representative who will transfer you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and enjoy the amenities at the hotel.
Accommodation: 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.
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Day 2:
Delhi: Explore Old and New Delhi
After breakfast, we will start our tour with a visit to the house of Mahatma Gandhi, a place where Mr. Gandhi’s epic life ended on January 30th, 1948. Mahatma Gandhi lived in this house from September 9th, 1947 until his death, and the house is home to many treasures and memorial items from the last 144 days of his life.
Later we proceed to Old Delhi, built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in 1639 AD. Your next stop will be – Jama Masjid, one of the iconic, historic and largest mosques in India – built by Shah Jahan. From here, you will be driven past the iconic Red Fort, the standing testimony to the magnificent power and pomp of the Mughal emperors. Your next stop will be at Chandni Chowk, a very popular and a busy market in Old Delhi to the next stop. A rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk could be quite interesting as this part of the city is quite crowded as it is full of shops.
After lunch, we will head to Gurudwara Bangla Sahib which is one of the prominent Sikh houses of worship. The Sikh Temple is locally called Gurduwara Bangla Sahib. This is the most prominent Sikh Temple of worship and is known for its association with the eighth Sikh Guru and the pond inside its complex. You will also get an opportunity to visit Langar, is the term used in Sikhism for the community kitchen in a Gurdwara where a free meal is served to all the visitors, without distinction of religion, caste, gender, economic status or ethnicity. Every single day of the year between 20,000 and 30,000 hot, vegetarian meals are prepared and served. During Diwali, or, Festival of Lights, that number increases to a staggering 50,000 – 80,000 meals per day. All of the produce, spices, and other ingredients are donated and all of the people preparing, serving, and cleaning up afterwards are all volunteers. A truly humbling experience to not only see the massive operation but if you can actually partake in their offerings, it will leave you a changed person forever
Later, we will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Humayun’s Tomb. Humayun was the second Mughal Emperor of India and the tomb was built by his widow, Biga Begum in 1569, 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.After our visit, we will return to our hotel for a small break before we leave for our welcome dinner and traditional India dance and music.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, 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.
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Day 3:
Delhi - Agra
After breakfast we will visit Akshardham Temple, the largest Hindu temple in the world, Akshardham. Built of pink sandstone and marble, the temple is the spiritual center of the entire complex. It consists of 234 intricately carved pillars, 9 ornate domes, 20 quadrangle spires and 20,000 statues of Hindu spiritual personalities. This will be indeed an informative and inspiring journey through an ancient culture, glorious art, and values of Hinduism.
Later we drive for Agra, a city that has its lacy of white grandeur, is one of the world’s most recognized monuments the Taj Mahal. Arrive and check-in at your hotel.
Afternoon free time for your personal activities.
Sunset viewing of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh, an open space garden situated in between the Yamuna River.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, 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.
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Day 4:
Agra
Sunrise visit to the mesmerizing Taj Mahal. The most unusual story about the Taj is that there might have been two of them. The emperor intended to build a second tomb in black marble, a negative image of the white Taj for Mumtaz. Tragically, before he could begin he was deposed by his son and imprisoned in the Agra Fort where he remained until his death, spending the rest of his life looking out along the river to the final resting-place of his wife. Return to your hotel for breakfast.
After leisurely breakfast, visit Agra Fort, a UNESCO world heritage site with imposing walls of red sandstone. The fort is almost two miles long and contains palaces, audience halls and mosques.In the early evening we will enjoy the live show a fascinating play that depicts the saga of love and a memorable journey into history. The drama portrays the Mughal era in the 16th century. It is a 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 example of mastery, artistry, and craftsmanship.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: 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 -
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Day 5:
Agra - Jaipur
Sunrise visit to the mesmerizing Taj Mahal. The most unusual story about the Taj is that there might have been two of them. The emperor intended to build a second tomb in black marble, a negative image of the white Taj for Mumtaz. Tragically, before he could begin he was deposed by his son and imprisoned in the Agra Fort where he remained until his death, spending the rest of his life looking out along the river to the final resting-place of his wife.
The Taj Mahal –Shah Jehan’s enduring monument to love. This beautiful mausoleum in pure white marble is a thing of astonishing beauty and an architectural marvel. Its unique beauty and immaculately intricate execution all contribute to the breathtaking first impression as we pass through the arch of the entrance gateway. Emperor Shah Jehan, fifth of the great Mughals was devoted to his wife Mumtaz Mahal (jewel of the palace). Twenty thousand labourers and skilled craftsmen from Persia, Turkey, France and Italy were put into action to construct this unrivalled masterpiece.Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
After breakfast you will be transferred from Agra to Jaipur along the way we will visit one of the hidden secrets of India. The largest stepwells in the world built over a thousand years ago in the rural village of Abhaneri. Centuries ago, the stepwells were built in the arid zones of Rajasthan to provide water all year through.
After lunch, continue driving to Jaipur. On arrival check in at the hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure in which you can partake in the activities of your interest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: 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.
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Day 6:
Jaipur
After breakfast the Jaipur journey starts from Amer fort also known as Amer Palace. 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.
Later you will be taken to Maharaja City Palace, a royal palace with seven storeys as well as Jantar Mantar, the observatory. This wonderful observatory attracts mathematicians as well as astronomers from the whole world. City palace is perfect blend of all three excellent styles (Mughal, Rajput and European). Another palace, Hawa Mahal is popular all over world for its magnificent architecture.
In the evening, enjoy an authentic dinner experience with a cultural Rajasthani traditional dance and music.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: 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.
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Day 7:
Jaipur - Kolkata Flight
After breakfast fly to Kolkata. Arrive onboard. Afternoon visit to Mother Theresa’s home memorial and the Missionaries of Charity orphanage she founded. Enjoy a cultural performance in the evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Ganges Voyager 1Ganges Voyager 1
Heritage River Journeys is proud to introduce the all-suite M. V. Ganges Voyager and M. V. Ganges Voyager II respectively launched in 2015 and 2016. Exquisite and everchanging, watch the tapestry of life along the Ganges River unfold before your very eyes in sublime comfort and elegance aboard these elegant ships.
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Day 8:
Kolkata, Bandel & Kalna
Drive on an early-morning city tour, featuring a panoramic view of the well-preserved British colonial buildings in Kolkata and visit Victoria Memorial Museum. Sail upstream through European East India companies settlements of the 17th through 19th centuries and visit Bandel’s Imambara, a colonial era Islamic school and pilgrim rest house on the riverbank.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Ganges Voyager 1Ganges Voyager 1
Heritage River Journeys is proud to introduce the all-suite M. V. Ganges Voyager and M. V. Ganges Voyager II respectively launched in 2015 and 2016. Exquisite and everchanging, watch the tapestry of life along the Ganges River unfold before your very eyes in sublime comfort and elegance aboard these elegant ships.
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Day 9:
Kalna & Matiari
Enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride to the Rajbari temples in Kalna built in the 19th century and covered with intricate terracotta reliefs of the gods and humans.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Ganges Voyager 1Ganges Voyager 1
Heritage River Journeys is proud to introduce the all-suite M. V. Ganges Voyager and M. V. Ganges Voyager II respectively launched in 2015 and 2016. Exquisite and everchanging, watch the tapestry of life along the Ganges River unfold before your very eyes in sublime comfort and elegance aboard these elegant ships.
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Day 10:
Matiari & Khushbagh
Enjoy an early morning walk in the shoreside village of Matiari, famous for its handcrafted brass and copperware.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Ganges Voyager 1Ganges Voyager 1
Heritage River Journeys is proud to introduce the all-suite M. V. Ganges Voyager and M. V. Ganges Voyager II respectively launched in 2015 and 2016. Exquisite and everchanging, watch the tapestry of life along the Ganges River unfold before your very eyes in sublime comfort and elegance aboard these elegant ships.
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Day 11:
Khushbagh, Baranagar & Murshidabad
Visit Khushbagh a tomb complex set in scenic fields built by a local ruler and the village of Baranagar with its beautiful terracotta temples built by a rich woman who made her wealth in the colonial trade. Walk through local villages and sail to Murshidabad and walk to the vast Neo-Classical Hazarduari Palace built in the 19th cen. by a British architect and see a museum of objects amassed by a local ruler who reigned during the height of the European East India trade. Take a scenic buggy ride to the elegant 18th cen. brick mosque at Katra. Enjoy a local cultural performance on-board.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Ganges Voyager 1Ganges Voyager 1
Heritage River Journeys is proud to introduce the all-suite M. V. Ganges Voyager and M. V. Ganges Voyager II respectively launched in 2015 and 2016. Exquisite and everchanging, watch the tapestry of life along the Ganges River unfold before your very eyes in sublime comfort and elegance aboard these elegant ships.
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Day 12:
Mayapur
After sailing in the morning, a stop in the village of Mayapur, the headquarters of the ISKCON movement with a new temple comparable in size to the Vatican and largely funded by Alfred B. Ford, the great grandson of car maker Henry Ford. Meet Krishna followers and walk through the pilgrims’ bazaar.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Ganges Voyager 1Ganges Voyager 1
Heritage River Journeys is proud to introduce the all-suite M. V. Ganges Voyager and M. V. Ganges Voyager II respectively launched in 2015 and 2016. Exquisite and everchanging, watch the tapestry of life along the Ganges River unfold before your very eyes in sublime comfort and elegance aboard these elegant ships.
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Day 13:
Chanderagore & Kolkata
Visit Chandernagore, once a French colony and explore the French colonial buildings along the promenade. Return to the ship and continue our journey downstream to Kolkata.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Ganges Voyager 1Ganges Voyager 1
Heritage River Journeys is proud to introduce the all-suite M. V. Ganges Voyager and M. V. Ganges Voyager II respectively launched in 2015 and 2016. Exquisite and everchanging, watch the tapestry of life along the Ganges River unfold before your very eyes in sublime comfort and elegance aboard these elegant ships.
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Day 14:
Disembark Kolkata
Following breakfast, disembark and transfer to the Kolkata airport or hotel.
What’s included
INCLUSIONS
- International Roundtrip Airfare
- Accommodation 7 night cruise in a riverview stateroom on Ganges Voyager (1)
- 2 nights in new Delhi at Taj Mahal New Delhi (or Similar)
- 2 nights in Agra at The ITC Mughal Luxury Collection (or similar)
- 2 nights in Jaipur at The Fairmont (or Similar)
- All meals as per the program – breakfast, lunches and dinners
- Complimentary soft drinks, coffee, and tea during meals
- Extensive sightseeing tour led by professional English speaking tour manager
- Assistance upon arrival and departure
- Complimentary welcome kit on arrival – hand sanitizers, wet tissues, charging plugs
- 24/7 Explore India Concierge team to assist with any last minute, unexpected, and unusual requests
What’s excluded
- Personal expenses, laundry, bar bills, gratuities, phone bills, etc.
- Any other sightseeing other than mentioned in the program
- Taxes additional of $283 per person
Ship Details
The Ganges Voyager 1
The colonial décor of the RV Ganges Voyager is the perfect cruise ship to experience the colonial heritage of Bengal. On the banks of the Lower Ganges, the French, Dutch, Danish, Portuguese and English made settlements to trade, preach and farm while local rulers, saints, agriculturalists, musicians and writers created new ways of living as they encountered European commerce, tastes and power. Learn, observe, relax and enjoy on this remarkable tour while staying in luxury and enjoy the care and hospitality of the Ganges Voyager and its crew!
Staterooms
Maharaja Suite
Located forward on the upper deck, the Maharaja Suite is the most luxurious and spacious suite aboard, offering
more than 400-square-feet of living space. With only one on board, this truly one-of-a-kind suite hand stencilled
walls, Persian rugs, Burma teak floors and colonial prints of picturesque landscapes, monuments and life along the Ganga. Daily butler service and in-room dining are available on request.
Viceroy Suite
Located mid-ship on the upper deck, the Viceroy Suite offers a regal setting, designed for the most discerning
traveler. Furnished in opulent Colonial Indian decor, the Viceroy Suite offers more than 360-square-feet of living
space including a finely crafted day bed, Persian rugs, prints of picturesque views of the Ganga, hand-stencilled
walls and a spacious bathroom.
Heritage Suite
Located on the bow of the upper deck, the Heritage Suite offers 280-square-feet with unparalleled panoramic
views of the landscapes that lie ahead. Featuring an intimate balcony with floor-to-ceiling glass doors, Heritage
Suite guests enjoy privacy and comfort. Outfitted with an exquisite four-poster bed, Persian Rugs and luxurious
seating, this suite is a perfect retreat.
Colonial Suite
Located on the upper deck, the Colonial Suite provides more than 260-square feet of elegant living space. The
room’s warm and inviting colors, hand-painted stencils, picturesque prints made by artists who traveled along the
Ganga and comfortable sitting areas offer rest and comfort during your journey. Colonial Suite bathrooms offer
spacious showers with premium toiletries, robes and bath linens.
Signature Suite
Located on the main deck, the Signature Suite is a perfect retreat with more than 260-square-feet of living space
with two twin-size, or one queen-size bed. The sitting area has floor-to-ceiling glass doors. The Signature Suite
is decorated with indigo hand-stencils, a mural of a bodhi tree and fine wood furniture.
Select a gateway:
Prices include Roundtrip Airfare from - to India.
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Recent Reviews
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
A Journey of the Senses and it was! I don't believe I could have found a better way to see this part of India, thanks to Explore India. It was an absolute adventure and I didn't want to miss a thing! The tour was very well organized, safe and educational. Tour guide Ashiesch Korana was excellent as was our guide in Nepal - Sanjay Nepal. I learned so much from these 2 special people. The hotel accommodation was excellent as was the bus transportation. All in all this trip was an experience of a lifetime for me and many thanks to you Nazir and explore India for enabling me to visit India and Nepal - 2 countries on my bucket list. Sincerely, Barb Schimpl
Barb Schimpl
Vernon BC.
Hello, Nazir. I thought I would drop you a note with some comments on our trip to India. As you know, I was quite apprehensive about the trip before we left, partly because I knew it was going to be a completely new experience for us, and also because of the alerts about the unusually high levels of pollution and the demonetization announcement by Prime Minister Modi which took effect just before we left Vancouver. (From an outsiders point of view, it appeared that the people most negatively affected by this drastic move were the “have nots”, rather than those who were the primary target.) I will begin by saying that this trip was truly the most memorable travelling experience we have ever had. We will never forget the sights, the sounds, the people, the colour, the life. The biggest highlight for us was Varanasi (all aspects of the city and the sights, but especially going out on the River Ganges both in the evening and again at sunrise the next morning.). It was like stepping into a different world. I am so glad you suggested that we go there. It truly does have a spiritual feeling. A bonus for us was seeing parts of two weddings that took place at our hotel when we were there. We had never seen an Indian wedding before, and the decorations, music, and colourful dress were fun and entertaining to watch. The tour we took with our guide, Ada, to one of the slums in Mumbai was also an eye-opening and unforgettable experience. Seeing the recycling of mountains of “garbage; watching the men sewing fabrics in small rooms; having the children play and wave and smile at us (but not asking for money); observing the making of pottery and the use of what appeared to be homemade kilns; watching the preparations for a birthday party with many of the neighbours joining in to help; and on and on. We had expected an atmosphere of Despair, but instead felt that this was a vibrant, active community, despite the basic nature of the housing and the lack of so many amenities we take for granted. We have no way of knowing if this slum was representative of the many other slums which were apparent in some of the cities we visited, but we will not forget it. We also loved Jaipur and are glad we spent an extra day there. The elephant ride up to the Amber Fort with its wonderful views out over the countryside; the observatory with its enormous and precision instruments; watching the full process of carpet making including weaving, scraping, washing, burning of the fibers with a blow torch; and hand washing (hard work); another wedding which we spent watching by the pool at the beautiful Taj hotel; the street scenes with people, animals, merchants, crazy traffic – all of it was wonderful. We had expected to be impressed with the Taj Mahal in Agra (and we were), but we actually enjoyed the “baby Taj” just as much – fewer people, and our excellent guide pointed out the beauty in the chiseled flower and other patterns in the marble (and we later had a chance to see how this was done). Walking through Old Delhi was also a fascinating experience, as was our visit to the Sikh Temple, and the beautiful monuments and buildings in New Delhi. The Taj Hotels were great, and I doubt if we will ever see a more beautiful hotel than the Taj Palace in Mumbai. If I had to choose again, I would have chosen the Taj Hotel in Delhi, rather than the Meridian (which was very nice, but had more of a feel of a business hotel). Our guides were also great – all different, but really good at explaining what we were seeing and giving us the history of all the places we visited. It was hard to take it all in, but we really appreciated their enthusiasm. Special kudos go to our guide in Varanasi (Prem?) and in Mumbai (Ada?), but they were all good. Khalid was also very hard-working, sincere, and we really appreciated his extra efforts on our behalf throughout. We were very sorry about the additional work we caused when we left our suitcase at the airport in Mumbai and really appreciated the time and effort of everyone who helped us get it back. Anyway, this is a long story, but we really wanted you to know how much we appreciated all your ongoing encouragement and efforts, and those of the people who work with and for you. If it had not been for you, we never would have gone to India and we would have missed the experience of a lifetime. We will definitely tell all of our friends that Explore India is the way to go and that India should be on their bucket list. Many of our friends figured if we could do it, they could do it. And we did it! Thanks again Nazir. We hope to get back to India in a couple of years, and maybe Nepal (and Kashmir when it is more settled). At that time, we will be in touch. Best regards,
Jo-Ann Prowse and Gerry Green
Vancouver, Canada
I am writing on behalf of Sum Lee group from Vancouver and for ourselves, in regard to our trip to India. We all enjoyed the trip very much., enjoyed the tour to Delhi, the Temples, the elephant ride to the Amber Fort, Taj Mahal,, Varanasi, the Bathing Ghats, and the cremation sites, sunrise on the river bank, horse ride up to the Glaciers, all very exciting and interesting. Joshi your representative was excellent, he has done a good job looking after us well. Thanks again very much for arranging this wonderful tour for us. A tour full of good memories. We are glad that we decided not to take the train, after talking to some others. We will certainly use you again.
Wing and Joyce Lew
Toronto, Canada
The trip to India was much more than I expected. Often the expression....Go to India and change your Life....that is what I experienced! From weather, hotels, food, transportation to our guides...top grade!!!! Thanks you for putting this wonderful vacation together for us!!! It holds memories for a Lifetime!!! When I get some photos edited I will send you a link! Great Job!
Linda Swanson
Nelson, 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
Hi Nazir, This was the best vacation we could ever have hoped for. It was fabulous. The group was the best, we have made a lot of new friends. The service and the hotels were wonderful. Shah was the best tour guide we could have hoped for. This is the first escorted tour we have done but it exceeded all of our expectations. We have actually discussed with our group about booking another trip in 2020 with Shah as our guide to visit Bhutan, Nepal and Kashmir. We would like to discuss this sometime next year perhaps. Thank you for everything, we really appreciated the wonderful itinerary, the great hotels and wonderful food. We will be telling all of our friends about Explore India and what a great family company you have that makes us feel like part of the family. It was great to meet your brother as well. Thanks again for the trip of a lifetime !!!! Warmest regards, Evelyn and Roger Randhawa
Evelyn & Roger Randhawa
Delta BC, Canada
Hello Nazir. We got back from our trip to India on March 1st. Just as you promised, we had a fabulous and amazing trip, and are so glad we went! Thank you so much for making the arrangements for us. I hope your trip there went as well as ours did. I also wanted to let you know what a great job our guide Sundeep Singh did on behalf of Explore India. I cannot understate how much his presence added to the enjoyment of our trip, and that of our fellow travellers. First of all his knowledge of all things India was amazing. He told us all we could possibly want in understandable lay man’s terms about the history of your country, but he also surprised us with his knowledge of even minute details about all the flora and fauna we came across. I’m not surprised he is working towards his PHD in history. In addition, his professionalism and demeanor towards all of his “respected guests” was top notch. He always gave clear and concise directions to our group, and knew how give them to us in a “just in time” fashion rather than bombarding us with information before we needed it. This is not an easy thing to do with as large a group as ours was. He was always able to do this in a professional yet down to earth fashion. Sundeep was also able to make the quick hard decisions when the situation warranted it, so they did not become group debates. He was also always on guard for our safety and security, and he always found good clean restaurants for us that served “yummy” food, and stopped at restrooms that were as clean as possible. Thank you again for such a wonderful experience. It would be appreciated if you could pass on our feedback to Sundeep, and let him how much his services added to the enjoyment of our trip. I have already passed your name and company information on to some of our friends, with a strong recommendation for them to follow us and go Explore India. I wish you and your company well in the future. Sincerely,
Paul Crocock and Linda Christensen
North Vancouver, Canada
Dear Nazir, Nazir, Explore India (Nov 17 departure) delivered on all expectations and promises, and then some. The professional competence of your staff, without exception in both Vancouver and India, ensured that the ambitious itinerary was not only delivered but exceeded. Much of this credit must be given to our very deserving guide Harry. Harry, so knowledgeable, led us each through the kaleidoscope of challenges and chaos that is India... left me wanting more. It was a privilege to be on his bus. Also deserving for a job well done is our driver and his helper, Yogi, office support staff in Delhi and your representative in Varanasi. Judy and I had an airline glitch and he worked hard to solve it and kept us informed, much appreciated. I am sorry I don't know each of their names. I have shared my story and pictures with a neighbor, you'll be hearing from them soon. I had a great time, be proud of your staff and your product. Kindest regards,
Alison Webster
Salmon Arm, Canada
Hi Nazir, the "Explore India" trip was wonderful! I can honestly say it exceeded my expectations .Our guide, Yajur, was terrific...,easy to understand, .informative, organized, thoughtful and kind.He had such patience in answering our questions ,even when they might have seemed foolish or repetitive . I felt I really learned about the people, the history,the culture and the politics....In a country that large and diverse we can only scratch he surface, but I certainly have more understanding and appreciation. The hotels were first rate and the service fantastic. The care that I received in dealing with my food allergies and when I banged my head in the bus ( my own fault!) was more than I could have expected. Your staff in India are to be commended for their complete attention to detail....everything from the supplying of water on the buses, the use of hand sanitizer as we got back on after an excursion, to the speed and efficiency in getting us checked in at the hotels was managed extremely well. The bus and our driver were superb! The extra trip that was arranged to the village to see the school and hospital was something special. The main attractions of course,the Taj Mahal, the Ganges both at sunset and sunrise, the caves, were truly magical and will stay at he top of my memory list....so many terrific memories, I could go on and on!..the dancers, the elephant ride at dusk, Mother Theresa's Mission, the cooking demonstration, Old Delhi, bicycle rickshaws...etc etc!....and of course the artistry evident in all parts of Indian life. I bought a magnificent vase of white marble, inlaid with mother of pearl, that I will always treasure. You ask for suggestions...my only one would be the occasional simpler meal....our North American digestive systems are not used to all the spices,as delicious as they are, it takes us longer than 2 weeks to get used to them! The food was beautifully prepared and presented and the restaurants treated us all very well....we just have a harder time adjusting to the spices for every meal. Because of my citrus allergy, they often made me something different and I did appreciate so much the extra care...those meals were lovely...often less spicy, and that's when I would hear some comments from a few of the others, that they would have liked the simpler food occasionally too. Not everyone of course...many loved every meal! I am in Palm Springs at present, enjoying beautiful sunny California weather and relaxing down here till April. I have told everyone what a remarkable trip it was and I'm sure you will get some calls in the future. I could recommend the trip to anyone! Thank you for an experience of a lifetime!
Marilee McBain
Surrey, Canada
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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.
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.
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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.