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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 -
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 -
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
Dear Nazir and Mandira, Very many thanks for your welcome back message. Denise and I had a fabulous ExploreIndia Trip "Mughals and Maharajas". Everything was very well organised and the quality and choice of the hotels were very good, especially the Hotel Madin in Varanasi, where the food, the service and the staff were exceptional. The transportation and visits to places of interest, including the artisan workshops, were also excellent. Our guide, Arvind Sharma, took very good care of our group and completed the picture with his shared insight and enthusiasm for all things "Indian" with his running commentary on the cities, the country's history, the historical sites, and life in India, and really opened our eyes to the real India. And we must not forget the bus driver and his assistant, who were also very hardworking and polite, and their skills at manoeuvering in the traffic were very impressive. Mandira in Vancouver promptly handled any questions or concerns regarding our booking and upcoming trip in a very calm, helpful and friendly manner. You should be very proud of your team, both here in Canada and of course in India. Everything on this trip was outstanding and far surpassed our expectations and we will certainly be recommending Explore India to others. Please pass on our thanks to everybody for a great trip and introduction to incredible India. Very many thanks again, Sincerely, Anthony and Denise Cooper
Denise & Anthony Cooper
Toronto, ON, 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
Dear Nazir: It was a wonderful trip and all four of us were glad that we had taken it. The weather was exceptionally hot, even for the Indians as it was said to be about 10c hotter than normal. My Father-in-Law was easily taken care of, as if he wanted, he was able to stay on the bus. We all felt that you would still see a great deal of India, even if you stayed on the bus. My Mother-in-Law felt that she would never be able to see the Taj Mahal, thus she was thrilled with the trip. All in all, it was a very good and most interesting trip and we were very happy with the service we received starting with you. My thanks.
Brooke Burnett
London, Canada
Hi Nazir, The India tour was excellent. The accommodations and meals was great , spicy but you get used to it after a couple of days, The hotel staff making every effort to accommodate and attending to any request from the tour participants. The tour bus was quite satisfactory with the driver and assistant quite helpful, keeping the bus clean. The Tour guide was excellent and quite knowledgeable about the history of the Indian civilization. Also handling the tickets to the various sites so the was little delay getting in and experiencing the splendor that is India Pick up and drop off from the airport went without any incidence. Overall, a great experience that will not be forgotten.
Anirud and Hafeeza
Toronto, Canada
What a wonderful trip. It exceeded all expectations. My husband ,who was not too keen on going loved it. Everything was wonderful, no changes necessary to the programme. We just had a wonderful time. You need to advertise India more. It was unbelievable. Thanks very much.
Gwyneth & Keith Jones
Winnipeg, Canada
Hi Nazir, Just to let you know Doris and I are home safe and sound, although both suffering from Jet Lag......What a trip - it was action-packed, full of adventure and beautiful. What a wonderous country and what fabulous people that are India. We had the great good fortune to meet Rajiv in New Delhi and to travel with Sandeep Singh for 16 days - never a dull moment and the first time we have been almost too busy to shop. We saw the sunrise from Tiger Hill and I have a video of Arrowhead, a beautiful female Bengal Tiger in Ranthambore. Sandeep was excellent, knowledgeable and kept everyone informed and on track. He had many issues to deal with that were not the norm, the devaluation of the 500 and 1000 rupee, the switch from Kashmir to Darjeeling and stayed on top of it all. Darjeeling was one of the highlights for both of us - what a trip and the people are fantastic - enjoyed the whole experience. The Hotels were all 5 star, food excellent for most (I have allergies, so stuck to mostly bland items), transportation was all great. The driver Mr. Singh and helper whom we called Baby Deep drove us from Delhi to Jaipur and back were really great - thanks to them also. The group that we traveled with were great - made many new friends and now share a common bond. Thank you to yourself, Mandira, Rajiv and especially Sandeep (for the 16 days he was our friend, guide and father). He truly loves his country, his people and sharing all his knowledge with his groups. A wonderful experience - Thank You
Karen Reid and Doris O’Brien
Calgary, Canada
Thank you for your email requesting our comments on our recent trip to India. Overall, our impression is strongly favourable. We thought that the expedition was well organized, ran smoothly and represented good value. The hotels at which we stayed and the restaurants at which we ate were uniformly excellent. The transportation was comfortable and the sights we saw were interesting. Our guide was well-informed and gave interesting commentaries as well as ensuring that all the arrangements ran smoothly. We would (and have) recommend your company to friends. We would therefore conclude by thanking you for a job well done.
Sheila Gray-Moir & John Walker
West Vancouver, Canada
Now that you are back from India I wanted to thank you and Rajeev for the wonderful holiday that that you organized. I had high expectations but I can truly say that our expectations were exceeded throughout the holiday. The choice of hotels was fabulous as was the choice of cities and sites to visit. We will certainly plan another trip in the future as there is still so much to see in India and we will contact you again. Rajeev was very attentive following up with us almost every day and making sure everything went smoothly (which it did). The drivers and guides were great throughout the trip. I only have one small suggestion. Depending on your client's budget and available time, I would book one free day in some of the palace hotels just to enjoy the pools and gardens. The pace of the trip was great but I would have liked one more day at say Lake Palace or Umaid Bhawan Palace to enjoy the hotel itself. I have already recommended you to three other friends. Thanks again
Jim and Meryl Spielman
Montreal, Canada
Hello Nasir, I'm back home safely from my trip to India. Thank you so very much for the opportunity to travel with your company, and for encouraging me to go. It was impeccably planned and organized. It was an experience I'll never forget, beautiful, and warm people, rich with tradition and beliefs, and welcoming to foreigners. We even danced in a wedding procession in the street!! Every moment was filled with excitement. Ashish was the most gracious and competent guide we could have had. It was sad to say good-by to him. He took care of us all. Well done, and thank you again. Sincerely,
Sharon Happach
Qualicum Beach, Canada
Hi Nazir, Sorry, it has taken me so long to reply, we really felt the jet-lag on our return! We were very happy with our experiences with Explore India. It was a fantastic trip, we learned a lot and had a lot of fun with our fellow travellers. We started the trip with an extension to Nepal. Our guide, Bikash, was a very caring man. When he found out it was our anniversary he had the hotel deliver a cake to our room. Bikash was also very supportive of one of the members of our tour who had unfortunately picked the wrong visa for India (single entry) and could not get on the plane with us to return to India. Bikash actually purchased his new plane ticket because the ATM's would not work for our fellow traveller. The sites of Nepal were amazing, in particular, the cremations on the river and when we toured a local village we actually got to go into a local school - this was very exciting because 6 of the 7 tourists were former teachers! The tour of India was really complete due to the amazing knowledge of our guide, Sundeep. Sundeep was an excellent story teller and helped weave an amazing knowledge of India, its history and the present day conditions. We were fortunate to be able to participate in many Diwali celebrations, especially in Varanasi where we saw some amazing sites. We would recommend Explore India for any of our friends. The hotel accommodations were all terrific, the tours went smoothly and we were always supported by our guides. It was an amazing experience and one we will cherish forever. Thank you
Deb & Ken Bennett
Surrey, Canada
Tour Extensions
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You can read hundreds of online reviews of destinations and hotels, but with our up-to-date first-hand knowledge, we will be able to compare and contrast different options and ensure we find something that is just right for you.
You will travel to India like a member of our own family. Our deep love and passion for India and its people, we are a family owned and operated luxury travel company.
Planning a trip needs careful care and attention to detail and that is where Explore India comes in with the passion to make every tour a hassle-free and memorable one for each of our guests.
Be sure to take notice of our standard of accommodation, the specialized sightseeing trips, the seamless flow of the itinerary, the comfort of the coach you will travel in, the customized dining experiences, and much more.
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.