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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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 -
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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 -
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Recent Reviews
On reflecting on our trip after being home for two weeks , I have got to tell you how fantastic the whole experience has been for our family. The whole trip was flawlessly executed and really exceeded our expectations. A big thank you from our family and I know the rest of the group felt the same. So many highlights that is hard to put a finger on the standout. Your level of detail and planning really showed through as almost no details were missed. I have already recommended you to friends that want to go to India. Thank You
Julian, Karen and the kids
West Vancouver, Canada
Hi Nazir, We had a fabulous time in India and rate our overall trip as a 9/10. We loved the tour you put together for us and just when we thought it couldn't get any better, our next destination brought more delights and experiences. Here are our thoughts of what worked well (I may have the wrong spelling for some of the names so apologies on that - I may also be providing too many details!): Being greeted immediately by Issu as we exited the airport in Delhi was perfect - he spotted us right away, was very friendly and energetic, he engaged us, answered our questions, introduced us to our driver Kulvinder, checked us into our hotel, provided details on the next days and everything was seamless. We didn't worry about a thing. We liked having a day to rest and get used to the time change. Our tour in Delhi was lots of fun. Our guide was good (can't recall his name - Assish?) We loved old Delhi, walking through some parts of the market and just witnessing how everyone and everything flowed - trucks, cars, rickshaws, dogs, cows, people, bikes - we could learn so much in western culture about trusting and going with the flow! We loved Kulvinder. We felt very safe with his driving. Sharon gets motion sickness so sat in the front with Kulvinder - she had a few anxious moments whereas I was so fascinated with how he navigated traffic and kept us safe even when it seemed like vehicles were coming right at us. Kulvinder provided us with water all the time which we really appreciated. (We weren't prepared for some of the hotter days in the high 30s and low 40s) so air-conditioning and water were so appreciated! Kulvinder also had an easy disposition, answered our questions, pointed out things of interests (camels eating on the roadside!), was generous with our son giving little treats to him such as carved animals, encouraging him to get closer to a snake when Taylor was curious but scared, etc. We loved Ranthambore - the drive was good as it gave us a chance to see the countryside and learn more about the agricultural component of India. The Tiger Sanctuary Den was our favorite place to stay. It was more modest as compared to the hotels in the cities but the layout encouraged more interaction with other visitors and that is where we met the most Indian tourists. (Some who took down Explore India info as we loved our tour and didn't have to plan/worry about a thing whereas others were saying with their tour company they felt they were doing more of the work.) So we enjoyed meeting the people and our son met his new best friends (Vedant and Sedant) and played with them for the time we were there. Rajeev called the hotel to ensure everything was fine with us, spoke to me to ensure we had everything so we felt very well taken care of. PLUS we saw tigers (mother and 2 cubs) on our first ride out to the sanctuary. The drive to the sanctuary was also very interesting as we got to see more of the farms and how people live. Our driver was fearless and our guide was determined that we say tigers - it was fabulous! We also visited a textile place where our guide was very patient as we order tailor made shirts and jackets which were delivered to us in a matter of hours - we were impressed! In hindsight, we would have ordered more (if they have an online business, let us know! - I can't recall the name of the place but one of the men who worked there has a niece in Winnipeg!) So just when we thought it couldn't get any better, we loved our time in Varanasi. The cremation ghats were our favorite and just learning more about Hinduism. The boat rides on the Ganges were amazing. We enjoyed also learning more about the history of Buddha. At one of the temples, the Indian tourists seemed to find something interesting about us. They kept on wanting to take pictures of us with them! We felt like celebrities (or perhaps it was karma as we took so many photos of local Indians as well!). Our hotel room was so spacious and easily accommodated an extra bed for Taylor which was nice. The guide was good - very knowledgeable on the Hindu religion and practices of which we asked lots of questions. When we landed in Delhi, we were greeted by Issu and Kulvinder which was great. However, they thought we were leaving that very night whereas our itinerary was for the next day. Rajeev ensured we had the extra day and extended check out time with dinner included (and Issu ensured at check out that we didn't pay for those items). We also asked if we could have a driver to see more of the sights the next day and Rajeev accommodated our request which we really appreciated. (We wanted to see more of the neighborhoods of how people live - so our driver was great - he took us to a range of neighborhoods - wealthy, government workers, etc) We will share our itinerary with others who have expressed interest in traveling to India and will definitely recommend Explore India. Thanks so much Nazir.
Dina and Sharon
Winnipeg, Canada
Nazir, Just back from our trip to India and I wanted to thank you for a wonderful tour. Everything was well organized and went smoothly. I would like to stress to you the exceptional service that we received from our guide Harry. His historical knowledge and love for the culture made the tour. Harry went above and beyond with his service to ensure we gained a clear appreciation of the beautiful sights and sounds. His personal added value experiences were irreplaceable and I thank him for these. Harry is an exceptional guide, Explore India is lucky to have him as he will definitely remain in our hearts. I look forward to travelling with him again. I will be coming to the Mumbai are in the spring so will keep an eye on your site to see if there are any offerings. Many thanks,
Susan Tippett
Toronto, Canada
Hello, Nazir! Tonight we will be leaving India for Canada and both Hans and I want to thank you personally and your team in India for a marvelous time here. It has been a trip that we will never forget having seen such interesting places in India and having been witness to a totally different and very interesting land and culture compared to the one we know back home. We understand now why you are so passionate about your motherland and its people. We will not forget the people here, the smiles of school children and others, their warmth, kindness, sincerity and hospitality. How we enjoyed all of the excursions and we were so lucky and took delight in seeing a mother tiger and her three cubs along with riding an elephant at Red Fort in Jaipur! We enjoyed your local guides here very much and our guide throughout the trip Ashish. What a wonderful man, humorous, entertaining and knowledgeable! Your team leader in Delhi Rajeev has also been very supportive and kind as well and of course nameste to the many other players such as our amazing bus driver, his helper and your drivers to get us back and forth to the airport etc. as they have been exemplary! We were so well received and taken care of! Thank you also for the upgrade to The Grand New Delhi Hotel for our final days as it was not expected. It is very beautiful here and has allowed us time to rest before our departure home. We have come away with new friends too having met other Canadians on this visit, with whom we enjoyed many laughs! May you, and your team continues to thrive and be successful in the years to come. We cannot recommend you more highly. Many Thanks, Sincerely
Susan and Hans Stoffelsma
South Spring Island, Canada
In November 2012 we took a four week tour to India which was organized by Nazir Karnai Explore India It was indeed the best tour we have ever had. The whole tour starting from arrival at Delhi airport felt like we were in safe hands. Our driver, car, accommodation in different cities and tour guides were all arranged with detail and consideration of our safety and comfort. Every moment was worth while and no time wasted or surprises on extra expenses. We received royal treatment everywhere we went. Our special thanks to Nazir and his staff in Delhi who were available to answer any questions or concerns. We truly recommend Explore India in Vancouver for their excellent service and hospitality. Thank you Nazir and Staff
Shirin and Mumtaz Kassam
Vancouver, Canada
Hi Nazir, Sorry, it has taken me so long to reply, we really felt the jet-lag on our return! We were very happy with our experiences with Explore India. It was a fantastic trip, we learned a lot and had a lot of fun with our fellow travellers. We started the trip with an extension to Nepal. Our guide, Bikash, was a very caring man. When he found out it was our anniversary he had the hotel deliver a cake to our room. Bikash was also very supportive of one of the members of our tour who had unfortunately picked the wrong visa for India (single entry) and could not get on the plane with us to return to India. Bikash actually purchased his new plane ticket because the ATM's would not work for our fellow traveller. The sites of Nepal were amazing, in particular, the cremations on the river and when we toured a local village we actually got to go into a local school - this was very exciting because 6 of the 7 tourists were former teachers! The tour of India was really complete due to the amazing knowledge of our guide, Sundeep. Sundeep was an excellent story teller and helped weave an amazing knowledge of India, its history and the present day conditions. We were fortunate to be able to participate in many Diwali celebrations, especially in Varanasi where we saw some amazing sites. We would recommend Explore India for any of our friends. The hotel accommodations were all terrific, the tours went smoothly and we were always supported by our guides. It was an amazing experience and one we will cherish forever. Thank you
Deb & Ken Bennett
Surrey, Canada
My daughter and I enjoyed our trip. All went well and feel fortunate to have seen such amazing things. Our tour group was awesome and made friends for life. Thanks for all your help in booking our trip. I wish you had tours like this in other destinations! I have been recommending explore India to many, who have been seeing my photos on Facebook. I even have convinced my sister, Kymn to go (she told me she has you working on her trip, already). Thanks again,
Kalynne and Devon
Montreal, Canada
Namaste! What can I say, what's Hindi for fabulous? Thank you so much for Planning such a wonderful tour for us, we thoroughly enjoyed it. India is a country of many layers and we loved them all. I must say that the highlight for me was the Taj Mahal...I actually cried when I saw it, it is so beautiful, no picture could ever do it justice. Everywhere we went was interesting in it's own right, but that was amazing. Accommodation: Great Food: Delicious Itinerary: Perfect The only thing that needs more words is the wonderful staff. Rajeev Sharma managed every little detail and checked to make sure that everything was going well. Mahee was like a happy mother hen that watched over us and gave us so much information I thought my brain would explode...I learned so much about the Indian culture that I could never have learned in a book. Rama our driver has to be the best driver in India, he could maneuver that bus around anything. Surinder (not sure of the spelling) his assistant was always there giving us snacks and water and guiding the bus. I have never seen such competent staff on a vacation. We were also most fortunate to have a wonderful group of fellow travelers and we all plan to get together next month. I would not hesitate to recommend Explore India to any of my friends.
Vivien Murray
Vancouver, Canada
Thanks Nazir, we are back tired but entirely satisfied! Where do I start? You have a tremendous team working for you in India, including Raj, our guide in Darjeleen and of course Ardvid (please excuse my spelling). Not only were we fully informed about what we were seeing but they all added interesting info regarding the religions, history etc. I give Ardvid a 42 gun salute (Trust you know what this means with him). What a beautiful man! Went out of his way to satisfy everyone, one of our friends, Val Frost hurt her foot, he obtained a rickshaw for her twice. Always first on there when meeting us and always counting, does herding cats come to mind. The tour was spectacular! Know I understand the phrase Incredible India. Extremes are mind boggling, from extreme poverty to extreme wealth. The driving! The cows! The people! (we were stopped constantly to have pictures taken with locals. Always a friendly smile, a wave. Once instance a school group stopped and sang the Indian National Anthem for us. Hotels and meals super! The only downside was no tigers at the preserve but to show Ardvid, in Jaipur tried to show us all leopards to make up for lack of tigers, but unfortunately, only one car of the group saw them. Another example of his need and wish to please all. Thank Raj for arrangements for our last day. Worked much better than the original plan. We had two awesome drivers and Raj was always there, even to the point phoning all three groups the night before our departure and then again in the two cars on our way to the airport. One downside was the interesting move of the Prime Minister on the night we departed, canceling 500/1000 rupee notes. I know Errol got stuck with a couple but I recommended he mail the rupees to you so you could arrange a donation to charity. Please feel free to use me as a reference Nazir if necessary. You and your group were wonderful from the time we booked until our return. If you need any clarification regarding the above please let me know but a big THANK YOU again from two extremely satisfied guests.
Carol (Gerarda) and John Ragan
Calgary, Canada
Dear Nazir, I wanted to let you know what a wonderful experience I had on our Explore India, Journey of the Senses tour, which began on Oct. 17. From the time we arrived in New Delhi until we left from Mumbai 2 weeks later I felt safe and even, pampered. All the hotels, transportation and food were of 5 star quality. I will remember the Taj Mahal chain of hotels, in particular, for their luxurious surroundings and amazing meals! Of course, the elephant and camel rides in the dessert, followed by specially prepared meals just for us were highlights, as well as our visits to a random village, a primary school, the Taj Mahal, the Ganges, a slum in Mumbai. The list goes on and on. I want to devote the next part of my email to writing about Shyaam Singh, our guide. He was a remarkable guide! He had extensive knowledge about every location we visited and he always shared his knowledge with respect and passion. He was able to answer all our questions, no matter how complex or trivial the questions were. Not only did he have a vast knowledge of history, but he also had a vast knowledge of present day India, from the local people and their customs and religions to geography to politics. He was always willing to answer any personal questions we asked him about his family and his life in general. We were all thankful that Shyaam discreetly made all arrangements for us so that everything ran smoothly. Shyaam was always able to organize our group and keep us on time for all our outings. We know he did a lot of work behind the scenes, remaining calm and controlled at all times. We all enjoyed Shyaam’s warmth and sense of humour. He was not only a remarkable guide, but a remarkable human being. He made our trip memorable and successful. I know that all the venues were selected by you, all the hotels, meals and travel arrangements were planned by you, but, your choice of Shyaam to be our guide made our tour truly wonderful. We all came to realize that a really good guide is integral to the success of a trip such as ours. Thanks again, Nazir, for a wonderful experience I will never forget.
Liz Nixon
Coldstream, BC. Canada
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