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Overview
Exploring: Delhi – Jaipur – Ranthambore – Agra – Khajuraho & Varanasi
From the simplicity of the array of colours that will fill your eyes, to the grandness of the Mughal architecture that will amaze you, to the heart-stopping sounds of the music that will penetrate your heart, to the whispers of the gentle voices that are the people of India, this country will amaze, inspire, educate, and enlighten you at every turn. From the opulence of the Taj Mahal to the sounds of the Saga of Love show, you will begin to feel the passion of India as you have never experienced before. You will explore Khajuraho with its erotic sculptures embellishing the exquisitely carved temples, Kama Sutra, in stone. You will visit Varanasi, a holy city unlike any other city in the world where you will feel the circle of life comes together in the unfolding of both life and death, equally celebrated and revered in this ancient culture. These are just a few of the highlights that will make your Impressions of India tour an experience you will never forget.
Explore India and feel the magic that will change your life.
Tour Highlights
- Senses awaken as you enjoy authentic cultural experiences of India throughout the tour.
- Witness the breathtaking transformation of the Taj Mahal as the sun rises over the majestic Mughal structure taking it from the splendour of the night to its magical presence at daybreak.
- In Agra you will feel the passion of Shahjahan & Mumtaz in their Saga of Love Show.
- You will be mesmerized as you experience an evening Aarti with a Hindu priest.
- Once in a lifetime experience of a yoga session with a Hindu priest and certified yoga instructor in the holy city of Varanasi.
- Take an exhilarating bicycle rickshaw ride through the historic back lanes of Old Delhi.
- Spot the elusive tigers of Rathambore National Park with the help of a Naturalist/Guide.
- Travel like a Maharaja to the majestic Amber Fort Palace in Jaipur built in 1592.
- Delight fills the air as you enjoy dinner and a cultural folk dance performance in Jaipur.
- Transcend into another realm as you enter Mother Teresa’s Mission – Foot Steps away from the Holy Ganges in Varanasi.
Itinerary
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Day 1:
Depart Canada
Depart Canada for India. Your international flight includes meals, drinks and in-flight entertainment.
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Day 2:
Arrive In India (New Delhi)
Welcome to Delhi, a city that bridges two different worlds. Old Delhi, once the capital of Islamic India, is a labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with crumbling havelis and formidable mosques. In contrast, the imperial city of New Delhi created by the British Raj is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings.
You will be greeted by an Explore India representative at the airport and then taken to the hotel. Overnight stay in Delhi.Accommodation: The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel DelhiThe Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi
1 CBD Maharaj Surajmal Road Near Yamuna Sports Complex, Vishwas Nagar Extension, Delhi, 110032, Indiahttps://www.theleela.com/en_us/hotels-in-delhi/the-leela-ambience-convention-hotel-delhi/+91 11 7172 1234The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel features 480 luxurious guest rooms and suites which are elegant, well-appointed and equipped with the latest in technology. The hotel also offers 70,000 sq. ft. of multi-purpose meeting and banqueting space, including a pillar-less ballroom of 24,497 sq. ft. with pre-function areas in excess of 25,000 sq. ft. making it one of the largest luxury convention hotels in India.
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Day 3:
Old Delhi | Rickshaw Ride | Jama Mosque & Hindu Temple
This morning, we take a tour through Delhi. We begin exploring Old Delhi by visiting the Jama Mosque, the royal mosque built by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan in 1656. Then, we ride a bicycle rickshaw through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk, the spine of Old Delhi that houses the spice market and jeweler’s lane and then we drive pass Red Fort (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). We also visit Rajghat, the site of Mahatma Gandhi’s final journey. Later, we will visit a Hindu temple followed by a welcome dinner in Connaught place. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel DelhiThe Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi
1 CBD Maharaj Surajmal Road Near Yamuna Sports Complex, Vishwas Nagar Extension, Delhi, 110032, Indiahttps://www.theleela.com/en_us/hotels-in-delhi/the-leela-ambience-convention-hotel-delhi/+91 11 7172 1234The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel features 480 luxurious guest rooms and suites which are elegant, well-appointed and equipped with the latest in technology. The hotel also offers 70,000 sq. ft. of multi-purpose meeting and banqueting space, including a pillar-less ballroom of 24,497 sq. ft. with pre-function areas in excess of 25,000 sq. ft. making it one of the largest luxury convention hotels in India.
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Day 4:
New Delhi | Sikh Temple, Humayun’s Tomb & Qutab Minar
After breakfast, we start with a visit to India Gate (the war memorial dedicated to the martyrs of World War I), The President’s Palace – formerly Viceroy’s Palace, the Parliament House and the Secretariat buildings – an interesting blend of Victorian and 20th century architecture, later we tour Humayun’s Tomb, Qutab Minar and Bangla Sahib. Return to the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel DelhiThe Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi
1 CBD Maharaj Surajmal Road Near Yamuna Sports Complex, Vishwas Nagar Extension, Delhi, 110032, Indiahttps://www.theleela.com/en_us/hotels-in-delhi/the-leela-ambience-convention-hotel-delhi/+91 11 7172 1234The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel features 480 luxurious guest rooms and suites which are elegant, well-appointed and equipped with the latest in technology. The hotel also offers 70,000 sq. ft. of multi-purpose meeting and banqueting space, including a pillar-less ballroom of 24,497 sq. ft. with pre-function areas in excess of 25,000 sq. ft. making it one of the largest luxury convention hotels in India.
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Day 5:
Delhi – Jaipur & The Pink City
After breakfast leave for Jaipur, known all over the world as the Pink City. Jaipur will amaze you with the architecture and planning of both its old and new cities. Experience how the city explodes into a kaleidoscope of colours and sounds at every corner. Jaipur is an excellent place to shop for textiles and designer jewellery.
In the evening, enjoy an authentic dinner experience with a cultural Rajasthani traditional dance and music.Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Trident Hotel JaipurTrident Hotel Jaipur
Amber Fort Road, Opposite, Jal Mahal, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002, Indiahttps://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-jaipur+91 141 267 0101Resplendent in the hues of its magnificent past, Jaipur is one of the most vibrant, 5-star destinations in India. The capital and the largest city of Rajasthan, it was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, in 1727. Folklore has it that in 1876, the city was painted a luxury, warm pink colour to welcome the Prince of Wales (King Edward VII). Since then, the ‘pink city’, as it is lovingly called, has retained its rosy blush, which has charmed travelers from around the world.
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Day 6:
Jaipur | Amber Fort & City Palace
In the morning, enjoy an excursion to the majestic Amber Fort Palace by Jeep which was built in 1593. Later, we proceed for a city tour and stop for a photo at the Hawa Mahal, the “Palace of the Winds.” It was built to allow the royal ladies of the palace to discretely watch the grand processions along the main street. Next, we visit the City Palace Museum, which has a priceless collection of antiques, costumes and armory of the Mughals and Rajputs including swords of different shapes and sizes with chiseled handles. Then, we continue to the Jantar Mantar Observatory which was built in the early 1700s by Maharaja Jai Sing II, the great warrior-astronomer to which this city owes its name. We will have an overnight stay in Jaipur.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Trident Hotel JaipurTrident Hotel Jaipur
Amber Fort Road, Opposite, Jal Mahal, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002, Indiahttps://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-jaipur+91 141 267 0101Resplendent in the hues of its magnificent past, Jaipur is one of the most vibrant, 5-star destinations in India. The capital and the largest city of Rajasthan, it was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, in 1727. Folklore has it that in 1876, the city was painted a luxury, warm pink colour to welcome the Prince of Wales (King Edward VII). Since then, the ‘pink city’, as it is lovingly called, has retained its rosy blush, which has charmed travelers from around the world.
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Day 7:
Jaipur – Ranthambore Tiger Reserve
After breakfast we will leave for Ranthambore National Park, the true den of tigers, near the confluence of the lakes namely Padam Talab, Raj Bagh Talab and Milak Talab. Apart from the Bengal Tiger, other animals that inhabit the park are Sloth Bears, Jackals, Marsh Crocodiles, Leopards, Gazelles, Indian Hares, Porcupines, Jungle Cats, Sambhars, Chinkaras, Mongoose, Nilgais, Wild Boar and Monitor Lizards. Birds can also be seen in huge numbers here. Arrive and enjoy your lunch. The afternoon is free to be spent as you wish.
The Ranthambore National Park is equally rich in flora. Trees like Banyan, Dhok, Mango and Pipal are in abundance. Shallow lakes, gentle slopes and plateaus dominate the landscape of the park.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: The Tigress Spa & Resort, RanthamboreThe Tigress Spa & Resort, Ranthambore
Village Khilchipur Near Helipad,Ranthambhore Sawai Madhopur 322001, Rajasthan Indiahttp://www.thetigress.co.in+91 9587723234Heritage property located adjacent to the Ranthambhore National Park; offer two types of Rooms to choose your relaxation option ranging from Royal Luxury Suites and Royal Luxury Villas; all tastefully designed with modern amenities to ensure that your stay is comfortable and memorable. Every room amenities includes, spacious living area, Mini bar, personal sit out area, conveniences along with courteous Room Service.
The resort offers Indian and International cuisines prepared by expert chefs blending the traditional flavors with modern techniques and the freshest ingredients to create delicious food for you. We have an experience and friendly staff to manage your trip as an unforgettable stay in resort.
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Day 8:
Ranthambore | In Search of Bengal Tiger
Your day will begin with pre-dawn coffee and biscuits before setting off on an early morning game drive with in search of the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. After, return to the hotel for your breakfast.
In the late afternoon, we will return to the park for another game drive, ending our day just before sunset. Dinner at the hotel.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: The Tigress Spa & Resort, RanthamboreThe Tigress Spa & Resort, Ranthambore
Village Khilchipur Near Helipad,Ranthambhore Sawai Madhopur 322001, Rajasthan Indiahttp://www.thetigress.co.in+91 9587723234Heritage property located adjacent to the Ranthambhore National Park; offer two types of Rooms to choose your relaxation option ranging from Royal Luxury Suites and Royal Luxury Villas; all tastefully designed with modern amenities to ensure that your stay is comfortable and memorable. Every room amenities includes, spacious living area, Mini bar, personal sit out area, conveniences along with courteous Room Service.
The resort offers Indian and International cuisines prepared by expert chefs blending the traditional flavors with modern techniques and the freshest ingredients to create delicious food for you. We have an experience and friendly staff to manage your trip as an unforgettable stay in resort.
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Day 9:
Ranthambore – Agra | Village Visit & Fatehpur Sikri
After breakfast drive to Agra a city of the famous Taj Mahal. On our way we will visit a local village to experience the day to day beauty of rural India You will have the opportunity to chat with the locals, who no doubt will barely be able to suppress their delight and surprise at sitting next to a foreigner from far-away lands. Later continue to Agra before visting Fatehpur Sikri, built by Emperor Akbar in 1569. This was the old capital of the Moghuls, which was abandoned after 15 years due to scarcity of water. Arrive and check in at your hotel.In the early evening, you will enjoy a live fascinating play that depicts a 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 a most breathtaking work of craftsmanship. Overnight stay at the hotel.
In the evening enjoy live show performance a fascinating play that depicts the saga of love and a memorable journey into history of Taj Mahal. The drama portrays the Mughal era in the 16th century. It is 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 specimen of craftsmanship. Dinner and overnight stay in the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, LunchAccommodation: Trident Agra Hotel, AgraTrident Agra Hotel, Agra
Fatehabad Road, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, Indiahttps://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-agra+91 562 223 5000Near the Taj Mahal, Trident, Agra is one of the best hotels in the city. Beautifully landscaped gardens and water fountains welcome you to this charming leisure hotel. Built in local red stone, reminiscent of the Mughal era, the hotel features 135 tastefully appointed rooms and suites, which overlook the central courtyard and gardens. Guests can also enjoy complimentary high speed Internet for up to four devices.
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Day 10:
Agra | Sunrise Visit to Mesmerizing Taj Mahal
We start our day at sunrise with a visit to one of the most incredible monuments ever built in the world, The Taj Mahal which is a mausoleum made of white marble, the monument of love. It was built between 1631 and 1648 by order of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife. The Taj Mahal is the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world’s heritage.
After breakfast, we will continue our visit with a tour of the city of Agra and then 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. The afternoon is free to be spent as you wish.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Trident Agra Hotel, AgraTrident Agra Hotel, Agra
Fatehabad Road, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, Indiahttps://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-agra+91 562 223 5000Near the Taj Mahal, Trident, Agra is one of the best hotels in the city. Beautifully landscaped gardens and water fountains welcome you to this charming leisure hotel. Built in local red stone, reminiscent of the Mughal era, the hotel features 135 tastefully appointed rooms and suites, which overlook the central courtyard and gardens. Guests can also enjoy complimentary high speed Internet for up to four devices.
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Day 11:
Agra – Jhansi – Khajuraho | Indian Railway Experience
After an early breakfast, we begin our two hour rail journey to Jhansi, a center of Bundela civilization and medieval fortress-city. Upon arrival we will transfer to our coach and continue driving to Orcha for lunch.
After lunch we will continue by coach for Khajuraho, the land of the Kamasutra. Arrive in Khajuraho and check in at your hotel. The temples at Khajuraho were built during the Chandella dynasty, which reached its apogee between 950 and 1050. Today only 20 temples remain and they fall into three distinct groups belonging to the religions of Hinduism and Jainism. They strike a perfect balance between architecture and sculpture. The temples are decorated with a profusion of sculptures that are among the greatest masterpieces of Indian art. Overnight stay.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 The Holy Ganges
The morning enjoy a sightseeing tour of famous Chandela Dynasty Temples, which are set in a lovely grass park. These temples are amazing – rising in many peaks and spirals, intricately carved, and designed with statues and friezes. The erotic carvings on these temple walls have made this one of the most talked about tourist sites in the country and it is, perhaps, unmatched anywhere in the world.
Later transfer to Khajuraho airport and fly to Varanasi the religious capital of Hinduism formerly known as Banaras during British Raj, this is one of the world’s most ancient cultures and oldest living city of India and home to one of the worlds’ most time-honored and mysterious cultures dating back to 5000 years. Its present name is derived from the fact that the city is at the confluence of the rivers Varuna & Asi. Upon arrival we are transferred to our hotel.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 Bathing Ceremony | Explore Sarnath
In the early morning, we leave for a boat ride on the Ganges to see the bathing Ghats (river bank) & cremation site. We will watch the sunrise on the riverfront from a boat; this can be a spiritually uplifting sight. Life on the Ghats is bound in an endless string of rituals; ever-changing aspects of the river and the wide landscapes throughout have fascinated visitors from all over the world. Return to the hotel for breakfast.
In the afternoon, we enjoy a guided excursion to Sarnath a centre of Buddhist leering and the buried Buddhist city where Buddha preached his first sermon. After attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, the Buddha went to Sarnath and it was here that he preached his first discourse in the deer park and set in motion the ‘Wheel of the Dharma’. It is one of the most holy sites as it is believed that in this place the stream of the Buddha’s teaching first flowed. Sarnath was a renowned school of learning from the 16th century BC to the 12th century AD. Visit the ruins, the stupa, the Buddhist temple & the museum. At the museum is the Ashok Pillar with its four guardian lions, used as independent India’s national emblem.
In the early evening, we will take a close look at the banks of the Ganges to witness the devotional ceremony of Aarti performed by thousands of devout Hindus, listen to the Chanted prayers, the rhythmic drumming fill the air, and bells from temples across the Holy Ganges. Dinner and overnight stay in the hotel.
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 | Yoga Session
Early in the morning practice Yoga session for 45 minutes and unwind your stress, and purify your soul with your Hindu priest & a famous Yoga Teacher. Breakfast at your hotel.
Later in the day transfer to Varanasi airport and fly to Delhi. Arrive and transfer to your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Pride Plaza Hotel Aerocity, New DelhiPride Plaza Hotel Aerocity, New Delhi
Asset 5A, Hospitality District, Aerocity, Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, Delhi 110037, Indiahttp://www.pridehotel.com/delhi/new-delhi-aerocity/+91 11 6600 7700Located in close proximity to Delhi and Gurgaon, Pride Plaza Hotel Aerocity, New Delhi is the first luxury hotel in the capital by the Pride Group of Hotels.
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Day 15:
Delhi – Home
You will be transferred to the international airport in time for your flight home.
What’s included
- International round-trip airfare & Domestic Flights Within India
- Accommodation in 5-star hotels & Resort stay at Ranthambore National park
- Escorted transfers (airport to hotel, hotel to airport)
- Daily breakfast & dinner throughout the program (Full board in Ranthambore)
- Extensive sightseeing as described, including all entrance fees
- Private Jeep Ride at Amber Fort in Jaipur
- Services of an accompanying Explore India Tour Director
- Air Conditioned Volvo coach transportation throughout your trip with washroom facility (Min 15 persons are required)
- Bottled water is available during all Sightseeing tours.
- All applicable taxes and fees included
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 – $195.00 CAD per person must be paid after your arrival in India directly to your tour director. These basic gratuities will cover tour escorts, luggage handling, porters, restaurants, drivers, and other members providing services during your tour. Applies to group tour only.
- Taxes additional of $288 per person
Select a gateway:
Prices include Roundtrip Airfare from - to India.
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Recent Reviews
Dorothy and I just wanted to let you know what a great time we had with you and our fellow travellers during our recent adventure in India.It was indeed a 'TRIP OF A LIFETIME' and excellent value -- one we will always cherish. Your attention to detail was incredible, the hotels were fantastic, the food was superb and your assistants couldn't do enough for us Please thank them again on our behalf.
Peter & Dorothy
North Vancouver, Canada
First of all a VERY BIG THANK YOU for the wonderful and well-organized trip you arranged for us in India. The trip was well planned and we really got the feel of the place as we toured driving from Delhi to Bhuj. Satbir Singh, our driver was very cautious and courteous. He was excellent in his skills and kept us informed at all times as well as responded well to our needs. The car was in good shape and comfortable for the long trip. The hotels picked were outstanding. We enjoyed the Royal Plaza in Delhi and all of the other hotels selected on our tour. I would like to return to India again at the end of this year or early next year.I would strongly recommend you and your company to other friends and family. I am planning to call you again to organize my next trip to India or any other places.
Narmeen Pirani
Vancouver, Canada
I know you must be very busy but I just wanted to pass on my thanks to you for the wonderful vacation that Kay and I had recently to India. Our guides, Sharma, and Hilal were over the top with their help and the information they provided to us. Kay and I have been on many tours with various agencies over the past but I can honestly say that this is one of the best that we have ever been on. India is a fascinating country and even though we just saw a little we are still left in awe. I just wanted to pass this on to you because many times no one ever lets you know how much your tour was appreciated. We will be back. Thank you, and all of your associates for giving us such great memories. Kay and Morris Golden
Kay and Morris Golden
Edmonton, Albert AB, Canada
Hello Nazir, I very much enjoyed my tour with Explore India! Our tour group was lovely! I will recommend to my friends! The staff were very responsive to requests from the group. The tour guide was very knowledgeable. It was interesting to learn about India's history , current issues and how they are dealt with in India. Some definite highlights were the rickshaw ride through Old Delhi, visiting the soup kitchen at the Sikh temple, Taj Mahal, safari( excellent), and Jaipur elephant ride. I felt the tour was well paced and the hotels were very comfortable and elegant. Regards,
Carole Dalziel
Surrey, Canada
Hi Nazir, Just wanted to let you know how much Maggie and I enjoyed our tour. I have to admit that India wasn’t high on my bucket list and that Maggie was the one who was really keen to visit. I’m now a convert and was overwhelmed by the history, culture and the teeming life of the country. The organization of the trip could not be faulted, the quality of hotels exceeded my expectations and our tour guide Rajeev Sharma was the perfect host being informative, entertaining and attentive throughout the visit. The entire experience was excellent value for money. My only complaint is that I now have several thousand photographs to sort through. Kind regards, Rod and Maggie Pye
Rod & Maggie Pye
Mississauga ON,
Dear Nazir, Namaste. Our tour to India was one of our most memorable trips ever. Starting with our pickup at the airport, wonderful accommodation throughout and an excellent guide, we experienced India in the best possible way. Harry went out of his way to show us the country he obviously loves and made sure that we did not see it from the sterile environment of a bus. He created many experiences for us that we will never forget and we feel that we now have a true picture of life in India as well as a better knowledge of its history. We have already recommended your tour company to friends and will continue to do so. The service you provide is second to none and we thank you.
Elaine and Lorne Ettinger
Kelowna, Canada
Dear Nazir, We thought that you would enjoy the attached photograph of the "Dream Team, 2015." As this year draws to a close we thank you for all the wonderful memories that you gave us in November and we hope that you and your family have a very happy, healthy and prosperous New Year. We remain interested in the Kashmir adventure that you proposed for next September and are willing to put down a refundable deposit to hold a couple of spots pending pricing and final itinerary if that works for you. Best wishes,
Danielle & Dean
Burnaby, Canada
It was a fantastic trip!! The trip was well organized, the hotels were excellent, the staff (especially Ravi Shankar) made the trip one of my highlight trips!! Thanks for hooking me up with Alice as she turned out to be a great traveller!! I am going to look at other trips you have Nazir as I felt it was a good value for the money.
S Robinson
Toronto, Canada
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
We have finally got a minute to collect our thoughts and tell you what a fabulous trip we had with you and your team. Since returning on November 23rd from our 35 day trip of a lifetime to India, it was everything we had hoped for. As our guide in Varanasi said when speaking of his city, some people hate it and some people love it, but nobody will ever forget it. We think this thought could well apply to India in general. With that in mind, WE LOVED IT and will never forget it. You were the perfect tour director, with your great attention to detail and endless personal connections making everything seem so seamless for us. Your team through the trip were wonderful ambassadors for the country; they loved their work and loved to tell us about India. We were so glad that you sold us on including Kashmir in the itinerary; it is a very special place, I have about 3000 photos to cull and organize, and these will provide hours of memories. When I get them sorted, I will send along a few for your files.
Ian & Cathy Lang
Waterloo, Canada
Tour Extensions
Check & Compare
You can read hundreds of online reviews of destinations and hotels, but with our up-to-date first-hand knowledge, we will be able to compare and contrast different options and ensure we find something that is just right for you.
You will travel to India like a member of our own family. Our deep love and passion for India and its people, we are a family owned and operated luxury travel company.
Planning a trip needs careful care and attention to detail and that is where Explore India comes in with the passion to make every tour a hassle-free and memorable one for each of our guests.
Be sure to take notice of our standard of accommodation, the specialized sightseeing trips, the seamless flow of the itinerary, the comfort of the coach you will travel in, the customized dining experiences, and much more.
FEEL CONFIDENT TRAVELING WITH EXPLORE INDIA
No company is big or small when you have 100% capability of exceeding guest expectations. A rating of 10 out of 10 does not adequately reflect the level of the experience and value of the tour that we provide to India especially for the first time visitors. Explore India’s success can be traced all the way back to those early days of learning what it means to be a host and to this day, our motto is to treat the guest like a member of the family. A sure testimonial to the business, given the fact that many Canadians have travelled not one, not twice, but three times with Explore India, the early teachings seem to have paid off, as touring to India with us is a sought-after experience in Canada and beyond.