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Exploring: Delhi – Darjeeling – Kolkata – Thimphu – Paro (Bhutan)- Kathamandu (Nepal)
It is with a great pleasure that we invite you to join us on this once in a lifetime experience. This incredible Himalayan cultural journey will take us to the plains of Darjeeling, in the Himalayan foothills. This was once a summer resort for the British Raj elite and is famous for the narrow-gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway built in 1881. It’s also famed for the distinctive black tea grown on plantations that dot its surrounding slopes. Boasting a backdrop of Mt. Kanchenjunga, among the world’s highest peaks, we will then travel onwards to Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), the capital of India’s West Bengal state. Founded as an East India Company trading post, this was India’s capital under the British Raj from 1773-1911. Today it’s known for its grand colonial architecture, art galleries and cultural festivals. It is also home to Mother Teresa House, headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity, founded by Mother Teresa. Finally we travel onwards to the incredible mountain kingdom of Nepal and Bhutan, a land of dramatic topography ranging from subtropical plains to steep mountains and valleys. We will experience fascinating cultures, traditions and customs on this expedition, and end with the Dragon Kingdom of Bhutan, also known as the last Shangri-La on earth. Highlights include a visit to Thimphu, the infamous Tiger’s Nest Monastery, a flight around Mt. Everest, the highest mountain peak in the world and the splendour of the alpine countryside of Punakha where we will witness the impressive Dzongs.
Tour Highlights
- Experience the narrow gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway which was completed in 1881
- Explore the fields of distinctive black tea grown on the plantations that dot its surrounding slopes
- Visit ancient temples and holy monuments to gain spiritual insight into Bhutan’s ingrained Buddhist philosophy
- See the impressive Tiger’s Nest Monastery, set into a cliff 3,000 feet above Paro
- Wonder at the dzongs (great citadels) of Bhutan with their striking architecture
- Experience a tea ceremony with the nuns in a Thimphu monastery
- See an archery demonstration, and Bhutanese dance and enjoy a farewell dinner in Paro
- Receive an interactive lesson in Nepalese cuisine with a local family
- Experience the top of the world in total comfort while enjoying panoramic views of Mt. Everest
- Visit ancient temples and holy monuments to gain spiritual insight into Nepal’s ingrained Buddhist philosophy
- Wander the unique streets of Thamel enjoying the sights and sounds of this bustling area.
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:
Arrival 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. On arrival at Delhi airport you’ll be met upon arrival and transferred to your hotel.
Accommodation: Vivanta New Delhi, DwarkaVivanta New Delhi, Dwarka
Metro Station Rd, Sector 21, Dwarka, New Delhi, Delhi 110075, Indiahttps://www.vivantahotels.com/en-in/vivanta-new-delhi-dwarka/+91 11 6600 3000Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka – Designed to delight high fliers from all angles. Laidback but efficient. Elegant and spacious. Directly connected to the heart of the city with easy access to the Sector 21 Metro station. As one of the most opulent 5-star business hotels in NewDelhi, it aims to change the face of business, in a space where you can work and play seamlessly. Spanning 7 acres, Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka is one of the best hotels near Delhi airport. It wraps you in luxury the minute you step in. The stylish space is home to a chic lobby, never-ending rooms and multiple outlets for the finest culinary experiences. You are never far from the city. A 20-minute drive eastward leads you to the heart and soul of the city – Lutyens’ New Delhi! And the domestic and international airports are an easy 15-minute drive westward. Everything you need, and then some, around every corner. Where business and luxury unite, in an experience like no other!
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Day 3:
Delhi | Bagdogra | Darjeeling
Morning transfer from hotel to airport to board the flight for Bagdogra (G8-327 @ 1050/1255 hrs) Welcome on arrival at Bagdogra Airport and drive to Darjeeling (95 Kms/ 3hrs). Once the summer capital of India, Darjeeling is a land of infinite variety and charm. It will cater you a mix-experience of lively nature & charming Himalayan people. It is the place of Dorje, the mystic thunderbolt of the Lama-Religion. Surrounded by Tea gardens; this little town faces some of the highest peaks of the Himalayas. Enjoy your Welcome dinner along with cultural program at hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner -
Day 4:
Darjeeling Sightseeing | Toy Train Ride
Early morning start for Tiger Hill to watch the spectacular sunrise and it’s amazing effects on the Mt. Kanchendzonga (Worlds 3rd highest peak), visit Ghoom Monastery and Batashia Loop War Memorial while returning to the hotel.Return to hotel for breakfast. After breakfast transfer to Darjeeling station to enjoy your Toy Train Joy Ride (subject to availability) – this unique Mountain Railway’ project was first started in 1878 by the initiative of Sir. Ashley Eden and is now a World Heritage. Padmaja N. Zoological Garden (Closed on Thursday) established on August 14, 1958. It specializes in breeding animals adapted to alpine conditions.Later proceed to visit the Tukver Tea Estate – also popularly known as Puttabong Tea estate has quite a reputation for itself for producing one of the finest brands of Darjeeling Tea. It is the First Tea Estate in the history of Darjeeling Tea Plantation (Planted by the pioneering British Tea Planter Dr. Campbell in 1852). This garden is one of the biggest tea estates in Darjeeling comprising of 5 divisions located at a stretch of approximately 20 Km from Darjeeling city to Sikkim State border.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 5:
Darjeeling Sightseeing | Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
After breakfast visit Himalayan Mountaineering Institute was founded in Darjeeling on 4th November 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 Tibetan Refugee Self-help Center established on 1st October, 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 handicraft is the centres’ main activity. Evening enjoy a short walk across the Mall and Local Market. Evening enjoy a short walk across the Mall and Local Market
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 6:
Darjeeling | Bagdogra | Kolkata
After breakfast drive to Bagdogra airport to board the flight for Kolkata (6E-958 @ 1220 / 1320 hrs) Welcome on arrival in Kolkata and transfer to hotel. Kolkata is the city of Joy, contrast and culture. Once the capital of British India – now the capital of West Bengal. A visit to Kolkata will bring visitors in touch with a combination of a rich 400 years old heritage, vibrant modern life and different cultures.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: The Oberoi GrandThe Oberoi Grand
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Day 7:
Kolkata Sightseeing | Dinner Cruise | Cultural Program
Enjoy your breakfast and start exploring the city of Joy with an introduction about the glory of Bengal, drive through the famous Howrah Bridge and experience a short heritage walk tour around the Dalhousie Square. Explore the College Street Book Market by a hand pulled Rickshaw and enjoy a cup of Hot Coffee at the Famous “Indian Coffee House” which is running since 1942.Later visit the St. Paul’s Cathedral, the first ‘Episcopal Cathedral Church’ in an oriental country, and the Victoria Memorial also referred to as the Taj of the Raj. This splendid white marble structure was built in memory of Queen Victoria between 1906 and 1921 and was formally inaugurated by the Prince of Wales, who later became King Edward VIII of England. Visit the Mother House – the headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity. As the sun sets, painting an evening sky with a hundred shades of red and orange. You will be welcome on board to celebrate the evening with cocktail reception and cultural program.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: The Oberoi GrandThe Oberoi Grand
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Day 8:
Kolkata | Paro Bhutan | Thimphu
After breakfast, transfer from hotel to the airport to connect flight for Paro Bhutan, (KB 501 @ 0910 / 1050 hrs) A Buddhist kingdom on the Himalayas’ eastern edge. Bhutan is a land of monasteries, fortresses (or dzongs) and dramatic topography ranging from subtropical plains to steep mountains and valleys. Arrive in Paro & receive a Tashi. Khaddar (Traditional welcome) and drive to Thimphu (1 ½ hours). In Thimphu, proceed to Kuensel Phodrang, considered to be one of the largest statues of Buddha at 51.5 m (168 ft) tall . The body is filled with 125,000 smaller statues of Buddha.Next you will visit the National Memorial Chorten built in 1974 to honor the memory of King Jigma Dorji Wangchuck and is a prominent landmark in the city with its golden spires and bells. Following this you will explore a local marketplace. In the evening Traditional Mask Dance & Cultural show during Welcome Dinner
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Le Méridien ThimphuLe Méridien Thimphu
Chorten Lam, Thimphu 11001, Bhutanhttp://www.lemeridienthimphu.com/+975 2 337 788Located in the heart of the capital city, Thimphu, the Le Méridien Thimphu invites the discerning guest to engage and discover the legendary ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’, Bhutan. Our 78 spaciously appointed guest rooms & suites are culturally inspired, yet decidedly chic and contemporary.
With cosmopolitan surroundings amidst the bustling commercial streets of the city-centre, and a convenient location to many of the city’s myriad attractions, the Le Méridien Thimphu is a compelling choice for hosting business meetings, and the perfect jumpstart to that long awaited leisurely holiday.
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Day 9:
Explore Thimphu Valley | Serving Tea to Nuns
Early in the morning, drive to Tango Gompa, the highest center of Buddhist learning in the country. After a two hour hike you will have lunch. Next you will visit Tashichho Dzong, a Buddhist monastery and fortress constructed in 1641, is impressively large and surrounded by beautiful gardens. Later in the evening we visit Zilukha Nunnery which is also called Drubthob Goemba , the largest nunnery in Bhutan. Young girls enter the nunnery to escape poverty and gain an education. You will see many nuns chanting prayers and turning prayer wheels. You will be able to serve tea to the nuns so you can gain both good merit and good. At dinner this evening, High School students in traditional dress will join you and bring costumes for you to try. Opportunity to dress as a Bhutanese! It will be a great photo opportunity!
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Le Méridien ThimphuLe Méridien Thimphu
Chorten Lam, Thimphu 11001, Bhutanhttp://www.lemeridienthimphu.com/+975 2 337 788Located in the heart of the capital city, Thimphu, the Le Méridien Thimphu invites the discerning guest to engage and discover the legendary ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’, Bhutan. Our 78 spaciously appointed guest rooms & suites are culturally inspired, yet decidedly chic and contemporary.
With cosmopolitan surroundings amidst the bustling commercial streets of the city-centre, and a convenient location to many of the city’s myriad attractions, the Le Méridien Thimphu is a compelling choice for hosting business meetings, and the perfect jumpstart to that long awaited leisurely holiday.
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Day 10:
From Paro | Bhutanese Historic Architecture, Oldest Temples
After breakfast drive to Paro and check-in at hotel. You will next visit the National Museum which contains over 3,000 works of art and houses some of the finest specimens of Bhutanese art. Then you will go on a short walk downhill to visit Rinpun Dzong (Paro Dzong), a fine example of Bhutanese historic architecture. Then you will visit Drukgyel Dzong considered the most beautiful and famous archaeological sites in Bhutan. In the evening, visit the auspicious Kichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most beautiful temples in Bhutan.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Le Méridien Paro RiverfrontLe Méridien Paro Riverfront
Paro-Thimphu Highway, Shaba, Paro 12001, Bhutanhttp://www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien/property/overview/index.html+975 8 270 300 -
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Day 11:
Tiger’s Nest Hike | Archery Demo
This morning you will drive to Taktshang Monastery, en-route visiting Simtokha Dzong. You will hike up to visit one of Bhutan’s most sacred religious sites, the Taktshang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest). This is one of the most breathtaking temples in the world. The main temple was built in 1692 and is one of the holiest for the Bhutanese. This hike offers spectacular views of this sacred monastery perched on a cliff face 900m (2952 ft) above the valley floor.Later in the afternoon enjoy an Archery demonstration, Archery, the national sport of Bhutan, and a common feature of everyday life. It is played differently from the international game and is seen as a celebration of the country’s way of life. In the evening enjoy a cultural program & farewell dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Le Méridien Paro RiverfrontLe Méridien Paro Riverfront
Paro-Thimphu Highway, Shaba, Paro 12001, Bhutanhttp://www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien/property/overview/index.html+975 8 270 300 -
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Day 12:
Paro | Kathmandu Nepal
After breakfast, transfer to the International airport for your flight to Kathmandu. (KB 400 @ 1220 / 1305 hrs) Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital. On arrival at the airport, we will be met and driven to your hotel. Afternoon you will enjoy a drive to a local market followed by a rickshaw ride to Kathmandu’s Durbar Square. Durbar Square is a generic term used to describe places opposite old royal palaces in Nepal. There are 3 Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley and all three are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a the hub of Nepal’s traditional culture, arts and history Later you will attend a Nepalese cooking class at the home of local family.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Crowne Plaza Kathmandu-SoalteeCrowne Plaza Kathmandu-Soaltee
https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/us/en/kathmandu/ktmnp/hoteldetail977-1-4273999Experience the natural beauty of Nepal when you stay at Crowne Plaza Kathmandu – Soaltee, the preferred hotel for guests including the Heads of States visiting Kathmandu. Conveniently located in the peaceful Tahachal area, just 8 km from the Tribhuvan International Airport and 4 km from the city centre, the hotel is spread across 12 acres of landscaped grounds that echo the mountainous beauty of the valley. You can stroll the grounds in peace and then drop in at the Rodi Bar for a refreshing drink. The Crowne Plaza Sleep Advantage Program ensures a restful night’s sleep for the business and leisure travelers in the 282 spacious rooms and suites. While staying at this 5-star hotel in Kathmandu, you enjoy a range of prime amenities. Gaze up at the mountains while you float in the pool or unwind with one of our rejuvenating therapies at the Tranquility Spa. Enjoy Chinese flavours at Bao Xuan, relish the best of North Indian cuisine at our Indian restaurant Kakori and indulge in the true taste of Italy at Terrace Alfresco. You can host stylish banquets, conventions and conferences in one of the 10 elegant meeting rooms with space for 20 – 1200 people. To ensure success, our extremely talented Crowne Plaza Meetings Director will assist you from start to finish. When you’re done with business, visit the popular Thamel or ask the Concierge to arrange hiking trips into the mountains and villages. When you return from your inspiring adventure sink into your room’s inviting warmth.
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Day 13:
Kathmandu | Mt. Everest Flight
This morning (weather permitting) you will enjoy a luxury one hour flight around Mt. Everest, the highest elevation on our globe at 29,029 ft. The breathtaking panoramic views throughout the trip offer unparalleled photo opportunities. Next you will visit Bhaktapur, “the City of Devotees, and located 8 miles east of Kathmandu. Bhaktapur has the best preserved palace courtyards and old city centre in Nepal and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next you will drive to visit the beautiful and historic temple, Chagu Narayan Temple – a UNESCO world heritage site and the oldest temple in Nepal.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Crowne Plaza Kathmandu-SoalteeCrowne Plaza Kathmandu-Soaltee
https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/us/en/kathmandu/ktmnp/hoteldetail977-1-4273999Experience the natural beauty of Nepal when you stay at Crowne Plaza Kathmandu – Soaltee, the preferred hotel for guests including the Heads of States visiting Kathmandu. Conveniently located in the peaceful Tahachal area, just 8 km from the Tribhuvan International Airport and 4 km from the city centre, the hotel is spread across 12 acres of landscaped grounds that echo the mountainous beauty of the valley. You can stroll the grounds in peace and then drop in at the Rodi Bar for a refreshing drink. The Crowne Plaza Sleep Advantage Program ensures a restful night’s sleep for the business and leisure travelers in the 282 spacious rooms and suites. While staying at this 5-star hotel in Kathmandu, you enjoy a range of prime amenities. Gaze up at the mountains while you float in the pool or unwind with one of our rejuvenating therapies at the Tranquility Spa. Enjoy Chinese flavours at Bao Xuan, relish the best of North Indian cuisine at our Indian restaurant Kakori and indulge in the true taste of Italy at Terrace Alfresco. You can host stylish banquets, conventions and conferences in one of the 10 elegant meeting rooms with space for 20 – 1200 people. To ensure success, our extremely talented Crowne Plaza Meetings Director will assist you from start to finish. When you’re done with business, visit the popular Thamel or ask the Concierge to arrange hiking trips into the mountains and villages. When you return from your inspiring adventure sink into your room’s inviting warmth.
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Day 14:
Kathmandu
In the morning enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu: visit Pashupatinath, Swoyambhunath Temple which is one of the most significant Hindu temples of the Shiva in the world, located on the banks of the river in the eastern Kathmandu, visit Swoyambhunath Stupa, the Budhhhanath, Later sightseeing of Patan, officially Lalitpur Sub-Metropolitan city, one of the major cities of Nepal located in the South central part of Kathmandu Valley. Farewell dinner & Cultural show.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Crowne Plaza Kathmandu-SoalteeCrowne Plaza Kathmandu-Soaltee
https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/us/en/kathmandu/ktmnp/hoteldetail977-1-4273999Experience the natural beauty of Nepal when you stay at Crowne Plaza Kathmandu – Soaltee, the preferred hotel for guests including the Heads of States visiting Kathmandu. Conveniently located in the peaceful Tahachal area, just 8 km from the Tribhuvan International Airport and 4 km from the city centre, the hotel is spread across 12 acres of landscaped grounds that echo the mountainous beauty of the valley. You can stroll the grounds in peace and then drop in at the Rodi Bar for a refreshing drink. The Crowne Plaza Sleep Advantage Program ensures a restful night’s sleep for the business and leisure travelers in the 282 spacious rooms and suites. While staying at this 5-star hotel in Kathmandu, you enjoy a range of prime amenities. Gaze up at the mountains while you float in the pool or unwind with one of our rejuvenating therapies at the Tranquility Spa. Enjoy Chinese flavours at Bao Xuan, relish the best of North Indian cuisine at our Indian restaurant Kakori and indulge in the true taste of Italy at Terrace Alfresco. You can host stylish banquets, conventions and conferences in one of the 10 elegant meeting rooms with space for 20 – 1200 people. To ensure success, our extremely talented Crowne Plaza Meetings Director will assist you from start to finish. When you’re done with business, visit the popular Thamel or ask the Concierge to arrange hiking trips into the mountains and villages. When you return from your inspiring adventure sink into your room’s inviting warmth.
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Day 15:
Kathmandu | Delhi
After breakfast transfer from hotel to airport to connect to the flight for Delhi. (6E 044 @ 1445 / 1605 hrs) Upon arrival meet our representative and transfer to the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Vivanta New Delhi, DwarkaVivanta New Delhi, Dwarka
Metro Station Rd, Sector 21, Dwarka, New Delhi, Delhi 110075, Indiahttps://www.vivantahotels.com/en-in/vivanta-new-delhi-dwarka/+91 11 6600 3000Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka – Designed to delight high fliers from all angles. Laidback but efficient. Elegant and spacious. Directly connected to the heart of the city with easy access to the Sector 21 Metro station. As one of the most opulent 5-star business hotels in NewDelhi, it aims to change the face of business, in a space where you can work and play seamlessly. Spanning 7 acres, Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka is one of the best hotels near Delhi airport. It wraps you in luxury the minute you step in. The stylish space is home to a chic lobby, never-ending rooms and multiple outlets for the finest culinary experiences. You are never far from the city. A 20-minute drive eastward leads you to the heart and soul of the city – Lutyens’ New Delhi! And the domestic and international airports are an easy 15-minute drive westward. Everything you need, and then some, around every corner. Where business and luxury unite, in an experience like no other!
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Day 16:
Delhi | Home
We are transferred from hotel to airport to connect to the flight for the onward journey.
What’s included
- International roundtrip airfare and all local flights including flights to Nepal & Bhutan
- Accommodation based on double occupancy
- Escorted Roundtrip Airport Transfers
- All transfers and sightseeing by air condition coach / Mini cars
- Entrance fees for all monuments as per itinerary
- All meals breakfasts, lunches & dinners as mentioned in the program
- Traditional Mask Dance & Cultural Show during Welcome Dinner in Thimphu
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Traditional Bhutanese Dress for the event in Thimphu
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Archery Demo in Paro the national sport of Bhutan
- Farewell dinner in Paro
- Bottled water and soft drinks during long drives and sightseeing
- Governmental royalty and taxes in Bhutan
- All currently applicable taxes in India & Nepal
- Bicycle Rickshaw Ride in Kathmandu
- Activities & exclusive events during the tour as mentioned in the program
What’s excluded
- Personal expenses, laundry, bar bills, alcoholic beverages, phone bills, etc.
- Any other sightseeing other than mentioned in the program
- Services other than in our inclusion
- Any applicable taxes
Select a gateway:
Prices include Roundtrip Airfare from - to India.
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Recent Reviews
Nazir Susan and I would like to say what a great job our tour manager Yajur did on the Explore India tour we just completed. His knowledge of India’s history and the forts and temples and cities et al that we visited and his ability to communicate that knowledge was terrific. His ability to deal with tour issues outstanding. His assistant Rouf had to leave mid-tour due to his father’s cancer and Yajur carried on with no impact on the group. Yajur minimized the impact to the group of the government’s demonetization of the INR500 and INR1000 notes. Mostly he convinced restaurants and vendors to accept the old bills. Finally in Agra some of us we able to exchange INR2000 old for new. I had a medical emergency where he provided excellent service – taking me to the hospital, dealing with language barriers at the hospital and purchasing for me needed supplies. I cannot say enough about how much I appreciate his efforts. The entire tour was an amazing experience. Thanks,
Blake Wimperis
Carp, Canada
Hi Nazir, Well it has been more than a couple of months since we returned from our tour of Incredible India! Overall I had an amazing time and have told everyone I run into, that Explore India is a great travel company and going on a trip to India is truly a trip of a lifetime. HIGHLIGHTS: Your company is very organized and we saw so many sights in a short time. All the transportation - coach, jeeps, train, plane and camels were just great. The logistics of travelling between town and around town, went very well. Hotels: again 10/10. The tent - well - we would probably pass on that down the road. Food - all the restaurants were good and the choice of cuisine just great. BUT - there was too much food! Having 3 meals a day is way too much food. I would much rather have just breakfast and dinner included - and purchase a light snack for lunch wherever we might be - for lunch. I gained 10 pounds - UG... ACTIVITIES: Tours of the monuments, forts, Palaces and Temples were fine. I know you cannot please all the people all the time! - so some are more interesting and some less!. In Jaipur the visit to Jantar Mantar was the least interesting of the whole trip - I would much rather have gone to see the area where the set was for the movie Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. GUIDES: Tahir was a delight to have as our guide. And all the other staff looking after us - did an incredible job All 10/10! So...much success with your company. With the Canadian dollar down and portfolios dropping, my travel plans for the immediate future are on hold. Hopefully, things will turn around soon! Cheers, And thanks again for hosting our trip to Incredible India! Sincerely,
Pamela Shaw
North Vancouver, Canada
Hi Nazir, Just a note on behalf of my wife and I regarding our recent trip to India. First we would like to commend you on running a very good operation in India even though you are based in Canada. Our India experience started out by being greeted by a very professional gentleman who picked us up at the airport. He made us feel very welcome at 1:00 in the morning while having to wait for over 2 hrs for us to get out of the Airport. Later in the morning at the hotel we were greeted by Rajeev who helped make our first day in Delhi very enjoyable by making various arrangements that were not part of the itinerary. Our overall India experience exceeded our expectations mostly because of the people you have on the ground in India. We always felt that we were getting the best treatment from everyone in your organization. We want to commend the people who spent many hours with us because they deserve a big thank you and a pat on the back. We appreciate the enthusiasm of our tour guide Harry who made our India experience unforgettable. He went beyond what we expect of a travel guide and as a result we all benefited tremendously from his knowledge of India as well as his interest in wanting us to have the best travel experience, and not just see India from the bus. This was tremendously appreciated by Leslie and I. We have already been sharing our unique daily “Harry” experiences with family and friends back in Canada. He is truly a GEM. I still do not know how he can look so good every day and have a different coordinated outfit that fits with the theme of the day, or event. Operations Manager, Rajeev seemed to genuinely care about making sure that we were enjoying our time in India and he handled the currency issue willingly to make sure that we had some local currency in spite of the challenges. He showed up often and kept in touch frequently with our group as we travelled through India. He genuinely cared that we were enjoying our time in India. I personally appreciate how he coordinated the tailor from CCCI to meet with me to do a fitting and final delivery at the hotels. This was above and beyond what was expected. Lastly we would like to thank our bus driver Mr. Rakesh and his assistant. These guys truly know how to manoeuver a vehicle with great proficiency. They were also always smiling after long days. Thank you to all of your other staff who had a hand in making our India experience truly memorable. We will be sure to refer Explore India as we tell our stories to our friends and family. P.S The hotels, transportation and arranged meals were all very good as well. Keep well and all the best.
Ricky Singh
Surrey, Canada
Just wanted to say thank you for a wonderful experience. You did a great job of organizing our trip and ensuring that we experienced the highlights of each of the countries that we travelled to. I am glad that we were able to have you accompany us on the trip. All of the guides were excellent. Hope to travel with you again someday. The trip to Cashmere would be great. Keep me posted. Thanks
Dr. Richard Brownlee
Kamloops, BC, Canada
Hey Nazir, thanks again for a great, memorable trip to India. Your passion, energy & commitment to providing a great client experience is amazing. You redefine the term “staying calm under pressure”, while keeping everyone happy is a huge task, but you rise to the challenge admirably! I hope you’ve had some good rest from the high level babysitting. J Back to reality & gotta say, dreaming about the next vacation. Take care & talk to you again soon….
Donna Chan
North Vancouver, Canada
Dear Nazir, We had a wonderful trip and were very pleased with the quality of the tour. The staff was very professional and friendly. We really appreciated the friendliness and great care your clients received. We have already recommended your company to others and hope to return to India again. The highlights for us were the safari and visiting the Taj Mahal. One suggestion I have is to suggest clients bring candies or small gifts (pencils, pins etc.) or a book to give to the children in the villages. We have so many fond memories and new friendships from our voyage. I hope to use your services again soon. Namaste
Edward and Patrice Campagnaro
Summerland, Canada
03 MAR, 2018: The trip was very interesting and educational. We appreciated the opportunity to see a broad spectrum of life in India and particularly the countryside and life in the villages. The accommodations and the food were excellent. And the weather couldn’t have been any better. The guide for our tour, Yajur, had a vast array of knowledge which he pleasantly and willingly passed on. He answered in great detail the questions our group had and had a vast and varied knowledge of India, its culture and history and provided the information freely and willingly. The entire group got on well together and appreciated the active agenda provided. The bus provided (with driver Lalit and assistant Ranjit) was excellent and fit the size of the group well – we appreciated the fact that we were not jammed in as sardines. And we really appreciated going off the main roads and into interior portions of the country. The trip and the experience have certainly whetted our appetite to revisit the country and see different aspects. Thanks to you, Nadir and Mansoor.
Bill & Laurie Shaw
Saskatoon SK, Canada
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
Good afternoon Gentlemen: Maurice and I arrived home safely, tired, a bit jet lagged, but still excited from a very exhilarating trip to India. Our time in India was fun-filled and a very rewarding experience. Nazir, thank you for the way you handled our travel arrangements with such precision. Our flight through Paris on Air France was perfect and uneventful. Dropping in on the group at the Lodi Garden was an added bonus to the evening. Thank you for adding that personal touch to the agenda. Rajeev, your administrative quality is impeccable. I am very pleased with the precision and accuracy with which you handled all the issues and fine-tuned every detail for each member of the group. Mahi, thank you all your help. You went above and beyond the call of duty to make the trip a pleasant experience for everyone. Exchanging cultural stories with you made us feel at home. We thoroughly enjoyed our daily personal chats with you. We admire your pleasant personality and calm spirit. Together as a team you have made our trip something that will be remembered and cherished for a long time. Hope our paths will cross again sometime soon.
Maurice & Cheryl Walrond
Nepean, Canada
Got home Wednesday night and recovering from the most incredible journey! Thank you so much for arranging everything so well! Yuvi is a great guide and companion. We had so much to talk about and had so many laughs together. He is a treasure in your organization and deserves to go far. The flight to Kashmir was his first time off the ground and he handled everything so well. From start to finish he was a wonderful companion and I am so glad to have had the same escort all the way. We got to know each other and to kid each other and I think I learned far more about India than I could get from books! Perhaps he learned a bit about Canadians too as he is in charge of groups after me. I must thank you too for the drivers. Kuljeet Singh is such a beautiful person. We three had wonderful experiences in Kashmir together. And what a skilful driver he is. I think of him as the terror of Srinigar! Everything just gets out of Kool's way! He was a better guide in the mountains than Asti was guide in Delhi! On the way to the airport for Kashmir, Kool answered questions I had for Asti who sort of didn't answer when he didn't know. Kool kept his mouth shut as driver in Delhi, but he is a great guide and very personable. Baluinder Singh is a great driver and very knowledgeable too. He is a great person to get to know and we had lovely chats with Yuvi of course on the drives from Delhi to Jaipur and then on to Agra. Balu surely knows great restaurants. I think it was K.R. Joshi who got me to give both a radio interview one night and a TV interview the next on the houseboat in Srinigar. So the Canadian writer, female, aged 92, gave K.R. a boost in his job. I wanted to get a white T shirt with Kashmir in big blue letters across the front but we couldn't stop on the way to the airport as there was a demonstration going on. If K.R. would like to thank me for those interviews, maybe he could send me a T-shirt size XL, white with KASHMIR in blue letters across the front! It's good advertising for him! In Gulmarg I saw the Tshirts in a window but it was raining in BUCKETS, so nobody stopped walking fast! I have emailed my son and daughter-in-law in England to advise them that not to get in touch with you for a mind exploding experience is to deny themselves a gift thatgoes far beyond money. I hope you hear from them. Shall I be recommending in my writing and in my lectures that to see India with Incredible India is the fabulous best cared for way to do it? You can be sure that I will. Thank you again for looking after all my doubts and questions. As for the train ride! Getting into a discussion of a number of things with an English professor, male, Muslim, a professor of psychiatry, female, Hindu, Yuri, a Brahmin and me while rattling along at high speed at night will always be one of my most wonderful travel memories of my life of many many travel memories!
Mary Mason
Toronto, Canada
Tour Extensions
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