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Overview
The magic of Explore India’s Bhutan & Darjeeling small group guided tour is that you will experience the magnificence of India and the beauty of the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan all on one incredible tour. The excitement of Delhi and Darjeeling coupled with the spiritual land of Bhutan is the perfect combination to stir your soul and ignite the adventurer in you as w
Tour Highlights
- Visit ancient temples and holy monuments to gain spiritual insight into Bhutan’s Buddhist philosophy.
- Experience the narrow-gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway which was completed in 1881on the famous Mountain Rail Toy Train Ride.
- Explore the fields of distinctive black tea grown on the plantations that dot its surrounding slopes – taste the famous Darjeeling Tea.
- See the impressive Tiger’s Nest Monastery, set into a cliff 3,000 feet above Paro.
- Set your eyes upon the dzongs (great citadels) of Bhutan with their striking architecture.
- See an archery demonstration, Bhutanese dance and enjoy a farewell dinner in Paro.
- Enjoy an evening walk along the main street of Thimphu.
- Get your cameras ready for the majestic views in the picturesque village of Talo.
- See the famous Zoological Garden, Padmaja Naidu.
Itinerary
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Day 1:
Arrive Paro-Transfero To Thimphu (54KM / 1 Hour Drive)
Welcome to Paro – Here are a few things you need to know:
- The Royal Bhutan airlines or Drukair has coded KB.
- You need to produce your e-ticket copies and visa clearance document during check-in.
- Fill in your immigration and declaration forms while onboard your flight to speed your visa formalities at the Paro airport.
- Do not lose the declaration form as you have to show it on the departure.
- If you have any tobacco products, please declare at the customs desk at the Paro airport.
- Upon arrival, you are met by an Explore India representative and transferred to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.
The drive to Thimphu is 1 hour. When you arrive, you will check-in at your hotel to relax.
Welcome to Bhutan
The Buddhist Kingdom of Bhutan lies along the lofty ridges of the eastern Himalayas, bordered by China (Tibet) to the north and northwest, and by the Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, West Bengal and Sikkim on the east, south and west respectively.If time permits, you will visit the following temples in Thimphu:
National Memorial Chorten: The building of this Chorten (a Chorten is the Tibetan word for stupa – both are words for a dome-shaped structure) was originally the idea of Bhutan’s third king, H.M. Jigme Dorji Wangchuck known as “the father of modern Bhutan”, who had wished to erect a monument to world peace and prosperity, but was unable to give shape to his idea in his lifetime due to pressures of state. After His Majesty’s untimely death in 1972, the Royal Family and Cabinet resolved to fulfil his wishes and erect a memorial that would perpetuate his memory and also serve as a monument to peace. The National Memorial Chorten was consecrated on July 28, 1974. The finely executed wall paintings and delicately fashioned statues within the monument provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy.
Buddha Dordenma: Buddha Dordenma is a magnificent statue sitting on top of a hill overlooking Thimphu. The Statue of Sakyamuni Buddha is one of the tallest in Asia (51.5 m). The site of Buddha Dordenma offers unobstructed views over the capital town.
Tashichhodzong: The “fortress of the glorious religion” was initially erected in 1641 and rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the 1960s. Tashichhodzong houses some ministries including His Majesty’s secretariat and the central monk body. It is open to visitors during the Thimphu Tsechu and while the monk body is resident in its winter quarters at Punakha Dzong.
Meals: Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Hotel Druk Thimphu BhutanHotel Druk Thimphu Bhutan
Wogzin Lam, Clock Tower Square, P.O.Box 1178, Thimphu, Bhutanhttp://drukhotels.com/thimphu/+975 2 322 966There is a land that is as old as the hills, yet as new as a silicon chip. Populated by verdant forests, lush green valleys, sparkling streams and people, who are as hard-working as they are hospitable. The land is so enchanting that many have compared it to Shangri-La, the lost paradise. That land is Bhutan, a country that has a great deal to share with the rest of the world. Tashi Group, based out of this land was founded by Late Dasho Ugen Dorji in 1959 with a vision to bring out the best of Bhutan. The group believes in bringing in changes without disturbing tradition; sharing Bhutan’s bounty far beyond its boundaries, and creating an environment where a glorious past can be moulded into a shining future. Hotel Druk – a luxury four-star hotel is a part of the Tashi Group and has been in operation since 1985. Over the years, it has been renovated to give it a chic and modern edge that is powerfully felt in uncluttered spaces. Each floor, differently inspired, explores a subtle palette drawn from water, air, earth, fire and sky. The founder and the Chairman of the Tashi Group, late Dasho Ugen Dorji had passed on the reign to his three sons under whose leadership the Group continues marching ahead in exploring new areas of investment. Batons have changed hands but the Group continues in its mission of maintaining the essence of Bhutan’s tradition while embracing the change to meet the new challenges.
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Day 2:
Cultural Tour - Thimphu
Takin Zoo: A short distance up the road to the BBS tower viewpoint is a trail leading to a large fenced enclosure that was originally established as a zoo. Some years ago, the fourth king decided that a zoo was not in sync with Bhutan’s environmental and religious convictions, and so it was disbanded.
The animals were released into the wild, but the Takins, Bhutan’s national animal, were so tame that they wandered around the streets of Thimphu looking for food, and the only solution was to put them back into captivity. *Closed on Monday
Institute for Zorig Chusum: Commonly known as the Painting School, the Institute for Zorig Chusum offers a six-year course on the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. On a visit, one can see students learning the various skills taught at the school.Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre: Weaving is predominantly a woman’s domain but this private weaving center is different as it is owned and run by Mr. Kesang, this is rare in Bhutan. He weaves, creates new and unique patterns, comes up with unusual colour combinations, and is very involved. The center frequently produces ceremonial textiles for Bhutanese royals, including the traditional outfit for King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema’s highly-publicized October 2011 marriage. *Closing based on owner’s discretion, in such an event we will replace with another site
Folk Heritage: This is a great stop as it is a unique heritage shop that opened in 2001 and provides fascinating insights into the traditional Bhutanese way of life.Royal Textile Academy: Located in the heart of Thimphu town, it is comprised of a state-of-the-art museum to showcase national as well as regional and global textiles and artifacts. There is also a weaving school where students will be trained in the art of weaving, yarn dyeing, and contemporary skills related to fashion design and merchandising. The area has a well-equipped conservation centre. *Closed on Sunday and government holidays
Post Office: Located in the heart of the town, the Post Office is worth a visit. The first postage stamps were issued in 1962, the same time the first motorable road was opened. Ever since then Bhutan has been known for the unusual designs and materials of its stamps. At the post office, you can see the different stamps available in Bhutan. You can also make personalized stamps with your picture and send a postcard to your family and friends with your face on the stamp!In the evening you can take a walk along the main street of Thimphu town.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Hotel Druk Thimphu BhutanHotel Druk Thimphu Bhutan
Wogzin Lam, Clock Tower Square, P.O.Box 1178, Thimphu, Bhutanhttp://drukhotels.com/thimphu/+975 2 322 966There is a land that is as old as the hills, yet as new as a silicon chip. Populated by verdant forests, lush green valleys, sparkling streams and people, who are as hard-working as they are hospitable. The land is so enchanting that many have compared it to Shangri-La, the lost paradise. That land is Bhutan, a country that has a great deal to share with the rest of the world. Tashi Group, based out of this land was founded by Late Dasho Ugen Dorji in 1959 with a vision to bring out the best of Bhutan. The group believes in bringing in changes without disturbing tradition; sharing Bhutan’s bounty far beyond its boundaries, and creating an environment where a glorious past can be moulded into a shining future. Hotel Druk – a luxury four-star hotel is a part of the Tashi Group and has been in operation since 1985. Over the years, it has been renovated to give it a chic and modern edge that is powerfully felt in uncluttered spaces. Each floor, differently inspired, explores a subtle palette drawn from water, air, earth, fire and sky. The founder and the Chairman of the Tashi Group, late Dasho Ugen Dorji had passed on the reign to his three sons under whose leadership the Group continues marching ahead in exploring new areas of investment. Batons have changed hands but the Group continues in its mission of maintaining the essence of Bhutan’s tradition while embracing the change to meet the new challenges.
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Day 3:
Transfer to Punakkha (85KM / 2.5 Hours)
After an early breakfast, you will drive to Punakha and on the way visit Dochu La Pass where, on a clear day, there is a panoramic view of the towering Himalayan peaks. The pass is marked by 108 stupas built by the Queen Mother.
Next, continue the drive to Punakha Valley. Punakha served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955 and is still the winter residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot) and the central monk body. Hike to the nearby Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the “Divine Madman”, an eccentric monk from the 16th century famous for many his many amusing, Rabelaisian folklore stories.
After lunch, you will get to visit Talo, PunakhaThe picturesque village of Talo, scattered along a ridge above the Punakha valley at an altitude of around 2,800m, is known amongst Punakha villages for its neat and clean appearance. Talo Sangnacholing is built on a small plateau at the top of the village, and from there one has a majestic view of the entire valley and surrounding villages, and the high hills beyond Wangduephodrang which mark the gateway to central Bhutan. The women here are particularly known for their beauty. Talo is about an hour’s drive from Punakha.
The remainder of the day is yours to spend as you wish.
‘One of the most striking physical features of Bhutan is its architecture. The characteristic style and colour of every building and house in the kingdom is a distinct source of aesthetic pleasure. The dzongs – themselves imposing 17th-century structures built on a grand scale without the help of any drawings and constructed entirely without nails – are outstanding examples of the best in Bhutanese architecture. Patterns of rich colours adorn walls, beams, pillars and doors in traditional splendour’.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: RKPO Green Resort PunakhaRKPO Green Resort Punakha
Sobsokha, Lobesa, Punakhahttp://www.greenresortrkpo.com/+975 02376233 / 02376231RKPO Green Resort sits in the heart of the verdant and lush Punakha Valley. Flanked by thick pine forests, it overlooks the Punakha valley and hundreds of paddy fields that stair-step down to the valley floor. It is surrounded by plentiful walking and trekking trails. From RKPO Resort, it is just a five-minute trek down to the mountain to the magnificent Chimmi lhakhang; the temple of the divine mad man( dharma yogi), which houses one of the amazing statues of the divine mad man) in the country.
It is entirely the handiwork of local Bhutanese artisans. The temple is also a centre of higher learning and meditation for monks
RKPO marries contemporary design with this Himalayan kingdom ancient and alluring ways. At the core of the RKPO philosophy lies the sense of simplicity and peace that permeates everything about Bhutan.
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Day 4:
Explore Punakha Valley
Today, you will begin the day with a hike up through fields of rice along the banks of the Mo Chhu to the upper end of the valley to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, a stunning monument recently built by the Queens and consecrated in 1999.
After lunch you will visit Punakha Dzong, built-in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, this Dzong has played a prominent role in the civil and religious life of the kingdom. Damaged by fire, flood and earthquake over the centuries, it has now been fully restored in its original splendour.
In the evening you will have the opportunity to take a stroll through the town.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: RKPO Green Resort PunakhaRKPO Green Resort Punakha
Sobsokha, Lobesa, Punakhahttp://www.greenresortrkpo.com/+975 02376233 / 02376231RKPO Green Resort sits in the heart of the verdant and lush Punakha Valley. Flanked by thick pine forests, it overlooks the Punakha valley and hundreds of paddy fields that stair-step down to the valley floor. It is surrounded by plentiful walking and trekking trails. From RKPO Resort, it is just a five-minute trek down to the mountain to the magnificent Chimmi lhakhang; the temple of the divine mad man( dharma yogi), which houses one of the amazing statues of the divine mad man) in the country.
It is entirely the handiwork of local Bhutanese artisans. The temple is also a centre of higher learning and meditation for monks
RKPO marries contemporary design with this Himalayan kingdom ancient and alluring ways. At the core of the RKPO philosophy lies the sense of simplicity and peace that permeates everything about Bhutan.
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Day 5:
Transfer to Paro & Explore (125 KM / 3.5 Hours)
After breakfast you will drive to Paro. On arrival in Paro you will visit Ta Dzong, formerly a watchtower and now the National Museum. The museum collection includes ancient Bhutanese art and artifacts, weapons, coins, stamps and a small natural history collection.
Then visit Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong) situated at a commanding height overlooking Paro valley. Built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646, this Dzong now houses Paro’s monk body and the offices of the civil administration and is symbolic as the religious and secular center of all affairs of the valley.
Later visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by the Tibetan king, Songtsen Gampo. The building of this temple marks the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan.‘Bhutan is the only extant Mahayana Buddhist kingdom in the world of today and the teachings of this school of Buddhism are a living faith among its people. The air of spirituality is pervasive even in urban centres, where the spinning of prayer wheels, the murmur of mantras and the glow of butter lamps are still commonplace features of everyday life. Bhutan’s religious sites and institutions are not museums, but the daily refuge of the people’.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Naksel Boutique Hotel & SpaNaksel Boutique Hotel & Spa
Paro, Upper Ngoba Village, Paro, Bhutanhttps://www.naksel.com/+975 8 272 992Located thirty minutes from Paro International Airport, Naksel Boutique Hotel & Spa is a luxury retreat where the comforts of man and the presence of nature combine for a peaceful escape in the hills of Bhutan.
Nestled on the edge of the national forest and the quiet Ngoba Village, Naksel derives its name from the Dzongkha translation of ‘Forest,’ which is only fitting for this Himalayan sanctuary.
The main lodge and surrounding cottages of Naksel rest on more than six acres for forest land, at 2700 meters above sea level.
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Day 6:
Tiger's Nest Hike (4 to 5 Hours Hike)
In the morning, take an excursion to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest. It is believed that Guru Rinpoche, founding father of the Bhutanese form of Mahayana Buddhism, arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery. The main structure was severely damaged by fire in 1998, but after many years of painstaking restoration work, the complex has now been restored to its former glory. \
This evening you will go to visit a farmhouse to experience a typical Bhutanese lifestyle.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Naksel Boutique Hotel & SpaNaksel Boutique Hotel & Spa
Paro, Upper Ngoba Village, Paro, Bhutanhttps://www.naksel.com/+975 8 272 992Located thirty minutes from Paro International Airport, Naksel Boutique Hotel & Spa is a luxury retreat where the comforts of man and the presence of nature combine for a peaceful escape in the hills of Bhutan.
Nestled on the edge of the national forest and the quiet Ngoba Village, Naksel derives its name from the Dzongkha translation of ‘Forest,’ which is only fitting for this Himalayan sanctuary.
The main lodge and surrounding cottages of Naksel rest on more than six acres for forest land, at 2700 meters above sea level.
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Day 7:
Depart Paro - Bagdogra - Darjeeling (90KM Flight & Drive)
After breakfast at the hotel, drive to the airport for your flight to Bag Dogra.
You will be welcomed by an Explore India representative in Bag Dogra and transferred to your hotel in Darjeeling. Darjeeling is 95 kilometers away and the drive takes approximately 3 hours.Welcome to Darjeeling, a town in India’s West Bengal state situated in the foothills of the Himalayas. It was a popular retreat from the heat of the plains in the summer amongst the British Raj elite. Darjeeling continues to attract visitors every year due to its beautiful views and its quirky charm. The town rests on a ridge 2200 metres above sea level on the eastern border of Nepal and the views of the snow-capped Himalayas and Mt. Kanchenjunga are stunning from this point. First famous for its tea, Darjeeling has beautiful tea gardens to be enjoyed which are dotted throughout the town.
The evening is free for you to spend as you wish. Overnight at Mayfair Resort.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner -
Day 8:
Darjeeling to Pemayangtse & Local Sightseeing
After breakfast at the hotel, you will visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute which was founded in Darjeeling by Pandit Nehru who said that “The institute trains young men not only to climb Himalayan peaks but also create in them an urge to climb peaks of human Endeavour”. HMI has the oldest mountaineering Museum of the country established in 1957.
Later, proceed to the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Center established in 1959. Following the dramatic escape of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, thousands of Tibetans leaving hearth and home, fled into the neighbouring countries to live as free human beings. The production of Tibetan handicrafts is the centre’s main activity. In the evening you can enjoy a short walk across to the local market.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: MAYFAIR DarjeelingMAYFAIR Darjeeling
https://www.mayfairhotels.com/mayfair-darjeeling/MAYFAIR Darjeeling is a heritage property that is one of the best hotels in Darjeeling. It exudes old-world charm and quiet elegance. Wake up to birdsong and beautiful views as you soak in the blissful ambiance. The green foliage and the crisp mountain air will refresh your senses. Striking the perfect balance between the old and the modern, MAYFAIR Darjeeling ranks as one of the best luxury hill resorts in India. It indulges you with its beauty and warm genuine hospitality whether you are travelling on a honeymoon, on a work trip or a family getaway. The luxury accommodation provided at the resort includes spacious Family Rooms and lavish Suites. Dining options include a grand buffet restaurant serving some of the best food in town, an English bar with lovely sunset views and a charming multi-cuisine restaurant. Facilities at this luxury hotel in Darjeeling include an excellent Spa, a well-equipped gym, a state-of-the-art banquet hall, a children’s play area and a nice library.
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Day 9:
Darjeeling Tiger Hill & Tea Plantation
An early morning start as we venture out to Tiger Hill to watch the spectacular sunrise and its amazing effects on the third highest peak in the world, Mt. Kanchendzonga. Visit Ghoom Monastery and Batashia Loop War Memorial before returning to the hotel.
Breakfast at the hotel followed by a half-day of local sightseeing.
We will visit the Padmaja Naidu Zoological Garden established on August 14, 1958. The centre specialized in breeding animals adapted to alpine conditions and now contains endangered animals like snow leopards, red pandas, and Siberian tigers as well as a variety of endangered birds.Later, transfer to Darjeeling station to enjoy your Toy Train Joy Ride. This unique Mountain Railway’ project was first started in 1878 by the initiative of Sir. Ashley Eden and is now a World Heritage.
Next, proceed to visit the Tukver Tea Estate – also popularly known as Puttabong Tea Estate. It has quite a reputation for producing one of the finest brands of Darjeeling Tea. It is the first tea estate in the history of Darjeeling Tea Plantation and was planted by the pioneering British tea planter Dr. Campbell in 1852. This garden is one of the biggest tea estates in Darjeeling comprised of 5 divisions located at a stretch of approximately 20km from Darjeeling city to the Sikkim State border.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: MAYFAIR DarjeelingMAYFAIR Darjeeling
https://www.mayfairhotels.com/mayfair-darjeeling/MAYFAIR Darjeeling is a heritage property that is one of the best hotels in Darjeeling. It exudes old-world charm and quiet elegance. Wake up to birdsong and beautiful views as you soak in the blissful ambiance. The green foliage and the crisp mountain air will refresh your senses. Striking the perfect balance between the old and the modern, MAYFAIR Darjeeling ranks as one of the best luxury hill resorts in India. It indulges you with its beauty and warm genuine hospitality whether you are travelling on a honeymoon, on a work trip or a family getaway. The luxury accommodation provided at the resort includes spacious Family Rooms and lavish Suites. Dining options include a grand buffet restaurant serving some of the best food in town, an English bar with lovely sunset views and a charming multi-cuisine restaurant. Facilities at this luxury hotel in Darjeeling include an excellent Spa, a well-equipped gym, a state-of-the-art banquet hall, a children’s play area and a nice library.
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Day 10:
Darjeeling - Bagdogra - Delhi (90KM Drive & Flight)
After breakfast drive to Bagdogra airport to board the flight for Delhi.
What’s included
- International roundtrip airfare
- Airfare Delhi – Paro / Paro – Bagdogra / Bagdogra – Delhi
- Accommodation in one double room at 4-star hotels
- Meals as noted in the itinerary include lunches in local restaurants.
- Transportation via a luxury Toyota Van
- English-speaking guide throughout your tour
- All entrance and monument fees
- Toy Train experience
- Taxes, Gov. Royalty & Visa
- Unlimited bottled water during sightseeing tours and long drives
What’s excluded
- Travel insurance
- All beverages incl. of water consumed at hotels/restaurants
- Gratuities/Tips to Guide and driver, personal expenses, laundry, telephone bills, extra hotel facilities. International airfare
*Please note that some of the sights/itineraries may change due to season, weather, national holidays, and special events. We maintain the right to alter the itinerary since tours are made in advance and unforeseen circumstances that mandate change may arise. Itinerary changes are made to improve your overall travel experience in Bhutan
Select a gateway:
Prices include Roundtrip Airfare from - to India.
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Recent Reviews
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
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
Dear Nazir Karnai, President of Explore India, This note is to heartily thank the Explore India Staff (EI) of Rajeev Sharma, Head of Operations, Mendura by telephone, our main driver & assistant, and other drivers and personnel who assisted us for Explore India. When Canadians say, ‘nothing was too much trouble’, we may sometimes exaggerate, but in the case of EI, nothing could have been more apt and honest. No detail was too small, from our initial bookings and EI contacts by telephone to the ease we felt through each thread of the trip. Our destination was India, but our journey was irreplaceable. I would not hesitate to highly recommend EI to anyone who asks and will do so as I write my freelance piece and attach it to my blog (charlesbeale.com). Thank you. My gratitude and I believe I can speak for the whole group, would not be complete without further thanks to our EI tour guide, Harry Singh, but in this response, I will only speak for myself. Harry taught me many things. He and India are delightful enigmas. Not only was he the best tour guide I have ever had, but he became a kind of personal guru, banker, time manager, and friend. Tour guides come and go, but Harry lives and breathes his beloved India so much so that some of that rubbed off on each and every one of us. In fact, there were times when we had to rein him in, such was his enthusiasm. Harry describes himself as a spiritual healer, and again, some of that personal belief affected us most strongly and positively. He became our personal banker due to the demonetization that began just as we arrived in the country. Without his purse, some of us would have been in dire straits; without his knowledge of how to manage the monetary change, we would have become nervous travellers. Although we sometimes worried about time, as many Westerners do, Harry was able to manage India time for us smoothly and in an unruffled manner. He is also the best-dressed tour guide I have ever encountered. In the end, as the peaceful and kind people of India showed us, Harry was able to deepen our meaning of empathy and love. I would, however, request that in future, Harry assigns more tourists to keep the ledgers for the counting of other than cows. Most sincerely yours,
Charles Beale
Bath, Canada
Hello Nazir, We loved our trip!!!. So sad to leave but ready to come home. We loved all our guides and drivers. We especially appreciated having the same driver for consecutive days (Suresh and Suki were our driving heroes!!!). Accommodations were fantastic. The professionalism and organization of everyone were outstanding. We felt well cared for in a foreign country. We were so happy to start in the south and be able to ease into India and then travel to the north. I cannot even begin to describe India to folks here. I loved seeing so much and on my next trip would love to stay longer in certain places. We loved Cochi and Munnar in the south. In The north Varanasi, Pushkar, Jodhpur, Deogarth, the walk thru recycling in Mumbai and dinner with a psychologist in Udaipur were highlights. Of course the temples, the forts and palaces were amazing. Our guides were so knowledgeable and informative. The history, religion, spirituality, politics all were so fascinating to learn about. The opportunities to walk and eat outside of hotels were wonderful I wish there had been more. It's actually hard to identify highlights as every day was full of new experiences ones that were easy and beautiful as well as those that were more difficult to experience. All created a unique experience and a glimpse at a unique country. I speak for all three of us in thanking you for creating such an amazing experience. It truly was! Namaste,
Tracy Weston
Austin, US
Namaste We had an amazing experience travelling through India and as always we wish we had more time there. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in Darjeeling. Our guide Sandeep was a jewel, such a wealth of knowledge. I don't think the trip would have been such a success had it not been for him. Many of us on the tour discussed coming back to travel to the south of India next time and possibly spending more time in some places, maybe even a few days to relax on the beach, possibly Goa? Also, Sandeep felt we would very much enjoy seeing Udaipur so maybe that could be included. Also, speaking for myself and Randy, maybe you could offer an optional tour to the Maldives as we would like to go there, even if it was just for 4-5 days. I know you offer a tour on your website for the south but why don't you send out an email to everyone that was on this tour asking what interest they may have for seeing the south and maybe based on the responses you can put together a more customized tour. Of course, Sandeep will have to be the guide and he did say he would do it. We talked about late Oct, early Nov 2018, that seemed to work for everyone. Again, thank you to all your staff who helped organize and coordinate this trip. They did a great job. Best regards
Kathy and Randy Whitten
Trent Lakes, Canada
Hello Nazir, Thank you for following up with us re: our tour in India. Mike said he spoke with your recently. We had a wonderful time in India. Sandeep was a very knowledgeable and respectful tour guide. The bus drivers were amazing. The food was delicious, with plenty of choice. The accommodation was really excellent, with one exception in Varanasi, however that turned out just fine too. We were well taken care of by everyone involved in the tour. India is an amazing country. Your tour was truly incredible and we would recommend it in a heartbeat. Thank you for being so kind in handling all my questions, concerns, etc. before the trip! Have a lovely weekend.
Dale Stoesser
Carsgairs, Canada
Dear Nazir: Thanks for your email. Yes, it was a fantastic holiday made all the more memorable by having Sundeep as our tour guide. He was so knowledgeable and passionate about his country and we were lucky having him. There did not seem to be anything he did not know and he went out of his way to make sure we were all happy. He also seemed to go above and beyond in helping us with getting our money exchanged into the "new" money which was not easy. In the end that worked out (at least for me) although in the first few days I was worried that I was not going to have enough $ to last me the trip! I did not realize before I left Vancouver that I would not be able to use a bank! I was disappointed that we were not able to visit Kashmir but that was due to circumstances beyond your control. But Darjeeling was lovely and so different from the rest of the trip. The drivers and guide in Darjeeling were great - they looked after us so well as did Singh who took us from Delhi to Delhi. It all went very smoothly in, as you know, chaotic driving conditions compared to Vancouver! As I said earlier, overall it was an amazing trip. Thank you. Sincerely,
Carol Clark
Vancouver, Canada
Namaste! We had an incredible trip, and was far more than we could have ever expected, Rajeev and Yajur I know that is spelt wrong, made the trip as smooth as could be. The whole trip was fantastic, great programme, the only down side was the air quality, and was such a shame that the Ganges was so fogged in we did not see the morning sunset. Susan and I with the rest of the group were so lucky to see the Siberian Tiger not just once but twice. Thanks again for such a wonderful programme to see Incredible India. You certainly have a great set up, Merry Christmas and Happy 2016
Peter and Susan
Vancouver, Canada
Hello Nazir: Thank you for phoning today to enquire about our recent trip to India. I wanted to let you know that it was a wonderful trip. I felt like I was away for a month. We saw and learned so many things about India. The trip covered many interesting sights and sites – the wild tiger – the elephant ride (never again – I saw them running free in Kenya) – the temples – the pedicab ride in Old Delhi – the Mahatma Gandhi Museum – the history of India as told by our guide, Sandeep Sing. Sandeep was a wonderful, caring person with a wealth of knowledge whose contribution enhanced the trip. The group we travelled with were all lovely people. The hotels were wonderful – the food was wonderful – it was a great trip. I particularly admired the Delhi drivers – what wonderful, patient people they were. Our bus driver was an amazing driver – we never felt in danger. In Delhi, we felt very well cared for by Rajeet. I would recommend this trip to anyone I speak to. Sincerely,
Ebba Grey
North Vancouver, Canada
We could not be more pleased with our trip to India. Everything went better than ever expected. The whole experience was first rate from hotels to excursions to meals to our bus and the drivers. I cannot say enough about how well treated we were and that was due to Rajeev. He was so concerned about our comfort and wellbeing. From my birthday flowers to the cake, taking us to the market and getting us to every destination nothing was left to chance. I have already suggested your company to friends and hope they will use your excellent service. Again my best wishes and thanks for a wonderful adventure.
Nancy Douglas & Carolyn
Sutton, Canada
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