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Overview
Described as “Gods Own Country”, the lush tropics of Kerala is a haven for the mind and body. Whether you are cruising along the canals of Kerala’s backwaters listening to the music of an amazing variety of tropical birds or if you are experiencing an unforgettable, traditional Ayurvedic massage, Kerala is sure to invigorate your soul and revive your senses. Kerala’s history is closely linked with its commerce, which, until recent times, revolved around its spice trade. Celebrated as the Spice Coast of India, ancient Kerala played host to travelers and traders from across the world including the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, French, and British. The influence of the traders can be appreciated through the delectable cuisine of Kerala which will tempt your palette as you are enticed by the aromatic scents of the incredible assortment of the famous dishes of Kerala. This journey to Kerala is a great opportunity to relax and enjoy the serenity of this coastal paradise while at the same time be intrigued and entertained by the experiences available to you.
Tour Highlights
- This unique journey begins in Kochi, otherwise known as Cochin, a major city in South India which borders on the Arabian Sea.
- Take a tour through Cochin which offers a chance to stroll through the quaint city where you will see daily life in this tropical part of India.
- Visit a tea plantation in Munnar where we learn about the cultural, historical, and economic significance of tea in South India.
- Embark on an exciting voyage aboard the famous houseboats of Kerala where we spend the night gazing at the stars as we float along the backwaters of this incredible land. This journey to Kerala is a great opportunity to relax and enjoy the serenity of this coastal paradise while at the same time be intrigued and entertained by the experiences available to you.
Itinerary
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Day 1:
Fly to Kochi
After breakfast transfer to domestic airport to board your flight for Kochi. Upon arrival our representative will greet you at Kochi Airport and then transfer to the hotel.
Cochin the queen of the Arabian Sea is one of the most interesting cities of India and has one of the finest natural harbors in the world. A root-conscious people of Kerala have preserved their past not only in the form of history books but also in the form of monuments and palaces. Places, palaces and institutions of historic value are being preserved conscientiously.
Cochin Sightseeing – Paradesi Synagogue, Dutch Palace, St Francis Church, built in 1510 by friars brought to India by Vasco da Gama, is the first European church built in India and is the site where Vasco da Gama was buried.
By Evening, enjoy Greenix Show which is a kaleidoscope of Indian classical art forms and martial arts. Showcasing quintessentially magnificent vignettes of Kerala’s rich cultural traditions, Kaleidoscope Kerala is essentially an exclusive, uniquely choreographed repertoire of live classical dance and music performed in a heritage theatre with legendary ritualistic folk invocations and martial arts. It is a medley of many authentic dances of Kerala, especially the sheer splendor of a magical rendezvous with the languid, mellifluously lyrical and graceful Mohiniattam, dance of the enchantress – exquisitely devotional for some, sublimely sensual for others; the rigorously codified majestic spectacle of Kathakali, Kerala’s trademark dance drama instantly recognizable for its dazzling regalia and trance-inducing rhythms, the stunningly totemic and surreally oracular manifestation of the divine in the folk tradition of Theyyam, among a breathtaking mélange of inimitable performing art forms accompanied by soul-stirring ensembles of pristine musical genres, dominated by the mesmerizing roll of the ‘demonic’ drum, chenda.”Return to your hotel. Overnight stay at the Hotel.Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Fragrant Nature KochiFragrant Nature Kochi
Bazaar Rd, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682001, Indiahttp://www.fragrantnature.com/HotelsKochi+91 484 221 3600Fort Kochi. Queen of the Arabian Sea. Cradle of the ancient Spice Route. Sanctuary for seafarers and adventurers. Start your day by walking down the streets of history. Explore the eateries, taste their eclectic cuisine. Survey the emporiums and antique markets. Ponder the mechanism of the Chinese Fishing nets. Blend with the dynamics of the spice markets. Listen to the multilingual rhythms of a cosmopolitan conversation. Photograph colonial-era buildings. Let your soul go supine in historic churches, synagogues and grottos.
Fragrant Nature, Kochi—a boutique 5 star hotel—features contemporary styled rooms with magnificent views of the harbour. Located in the erstwhile office of East India Company, the majestic facade with a clock tower is a landmark. The hotel features period trompe-l’œil art work by two popular English artists in the lobby—emphasising importance of art element in the boutique design. Loose yourself to the breathtaking luxury, underlined by world-class hospitality and service. Explore a range of cuisines at the famed specialty restaurant—a dining experience conjured with choicest flavours. Watch your stress and little niggles seep away with the luxuriant Ayurvedic massages at the state-of-the-art Spa—its leading highlight.
It’s more than superlatives. It’s more than what you see. It’s about you. Simply be you.
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Day 2:
Kochi
After breakfast proceed to visit Kumbalangi, a village located outside Cochin and is identified as the first model fisheries village in India. On arrival at the village board a country boat to reach mainland and you can see the village folk engaged in different activities for their livelihood, may be a woman in her village provision shop, a farmer in his paddy field, a fisherman spreading his net, a kid with a fishing net ….it goes on. Later enjoy a sumptuous lunch which will tickle your taste buds. After lunch take a ‘tuk-tuk’ ride through the narrow country roads and you will be dropped to the car parking point.
After lunch drive back to hotel & free for independent activities & shopping.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Fragrant Nature KochiFragrant Nature Kochi
Bazaar Rd, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682001, Indiahttp://www.fragrantnature.com/HotelsKochi+91 484 221 3600Fort Kochi. Queen of the Arabian Sea. Cradle of the ancient Spice Route. Sanctuary for seafarers and adventurers. Start your day by walking down the streets of history. Explore the eateries, taste their eclectic cuisine. Survey the emporiums and antique markets. Ponder the mechanism of the Chinese Fishing nets. Blend with the dynamics of the spice markets. Listen to the multilingual rhythms of a cosmopolitan conversation. Photograph colonial-era buildings. Let your soul go supine in historic churches, synagogues and grottos.
Fragrant Nature, Kochi—a boutique 5 star hotel—features contemporary styled rooms with magnificent views of the harbour. Located in the erstwhile office of East India Company, the majestic facade with a clock tower is a landmark. The hotel features period trompe-l’œil art work by two popular English artists in the lobby—emphasising importance of art element in the boutique design. Loose yourself to the breathtaking luxury, underlined by world-class hospitality and service. Explore a range of cuisines at the famed specialty restaurant—a dining experience conjured with choicest flavours. Watch your stress and little niggles seep away with the luxuriant Ayurvedic massages at the state-of-the-art Spa—its leading highlight.
It’s more than superlatives. It’s more than what you see. It’s about you. Simply be you.
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Day 3:
Kochi – Munnar
After breakfast drive to Munnar, the place where the unfolded green carpet is waiting for you. Munnar is breathtakingly beautiful, a haven of peace and tranquility – the idyllic tourist destination in God’s own country. Munnar is the gateway of Hills in South India. Munnar was the favored summer resort of the erstwhile British rulers in the colonial days On the way you can also watch the adorable waterfalls in Cheeyappara. Arrive and check-in at the hotel. Relax for a while amidst the comforts of your room. Explore rest of the day along with the nature. Overnight stay at the Hotel/Resort.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Fragrant Nature MunnarFragrant Nature Munnar
Bison Valley - Pooppara Rd, Pothemmedu, Munnar, Kerala 685612, Indiahttps://www.fragrantnature.com/HotelsMunnar+91-4868-257-800Experience highlands
The shrill whistle of a bird. Somewhere, a window opens. Voila! A stunning view of mist-clad mountains. Feel the chill of the magnificent heights. Drink in the crisp air. Hug your woolens tight. Watch the sun idle on the sweeping meadows. Gently calling you outdoors. Time to set your inner compass. Hike through the breathtaking scenery. Caress the dew-scaled tea-leaves. Engage in silent conversation with a timid Nilgiri Tahr. Witness the Neelakurinji bloom. Draw deep on the fragrance of nature. Discover your soul.
Fragrant Nature—a luxury 5-star hotel with the finest vantage views of the verdant mountains—is situated in a choice location of Munnar. Lose yourself to the postcard scenery, underlined by world-class hospitality and service. Fragrant Nature Munnar is styled similar to local planter bungalows with cozy fireplaces in every room. Our All-day dining restaurant showcases the best of North/South Indian & Arab delicacies with the choicest ingredients and exotic pairing. Watch your stress and little worries seep away with the luxuriant Ayurvedic spa massages at the state-of-the-art Spa—its leading highlight.
It’s more than superlatives. It’s more than what you see. It’s about you. Be you.
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Day 4:
Munnar
After the breakfast proceed for a morning sightseeing trip of Munnar; visiting the Eravikulam National Park where you can see the very rare mountain goats locally called the Nilgiri Tahr, as well Tata Tea Museum. Proceed to Mattupetty Dam site and Kundala which offers many alluring sights to relish. Kundala is a picturesque town located at the confluence of three mountain streams namely Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. Stop by to see the colourful flowers in Blossom Garden. Overnight stay at the Hotel/Resort.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Devonshire Greens Leisure HotelDevonshire Greens Leisure Hotel
Attukad Waterfall Road, Pallivasal P.O,, Munnar, Kerala 685612, Indiahttp://devonshiregreens.com/+91 85920 01044Welcome to Devonshire greens, a Premium luxury resort in Munnar that makes your holiday the most memorable among the best resorts in Munnar. Perched on the edges of mountains with scintillating view of relentless tea plantations and rich flora and Fauna, this mesmerizing holiday resort in Munnar enchants the tourists by its visually appealing sights.
Nestled in silence, enriching harmony in tune with nature with a variety of trees and birds, the resort occupies major tourist attractions. Offering stunning views along with unrivaled services and excellent food, Devonshire is exceptionally counted as the best among resorts in Munnar.
Devonshire greens resort Munnar, one of the top resorts in Munnar, makes your holiday in Munnar the most memorable. Devonshire Greens resort, a premium luxury resorts in Munnar is exceptionally counted as the best among resorts and hotels in Munnar.
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Day 5:
Munnar – Thekkady (Periyar)
After the breakfast proceed to Thekkady which offers diverse attractions like Wildlife Sanctuary, Hill Station and Spice Plantation. Natures own little hideout nestled in the hills of Thekkady.
Afternoon proceed to the attractive Wild life Sanctuary. The place where you go for a Wildlife cruise to view a large variety of wildlife like Wild Elephants, Nilgiri Langur, Sambar Deer, Wild Bison, Wild Boar etc, and quite a lot of unique birds can also be spotted. Evening visit Spice plantation & drive back to hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Greenwoods ResortGreenwoods Resort
K.K .Road, Kumily, Thekkady, Kumily, 685509, Indiahttps://www.greenwoods.in/+91 94465 74383Greenwoods is a luxury nature resort in Kerala located in Thekkady. Plan your visit to the verdant locale surrounded by dense forests and be settled comfortably in this premier Thekkady resort. Trek through the spice plantations, hill slopes and explore the naturally-endowed location. Wake up to the melody of birds, walk through the green orchards and enjoy discovering the serene, pure and unpolluted environs of Thekkady. Settle comfortably in Greenwoods, the premier 5-star resort in Kerala, plan your nature explorations and transform your visit to the green country as an exhilarating experience.
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Day 6:
Thekkady – Alleppey (Back Water Cruise on Houseboat)
After the breakfast proceed Alleppey boat Jetty to board the beautifully decorated houseboat and begin the enchanting backwater cruising. The backwaters of Kerala is a unique product of Kerala and is found no where else in the world. A glide in a “Kettuvallam” (Houseboat) through the enchanting backwaters is sure to rob your heart. You’re in a watery universe, so quiet, even you can hear your own blood pumping around your head. Sparkling greens, emerald backwaters, coir-laden houseboats and magical beauty heals your mind and body as you travel to surreal Kerala. Overnight stay in the Houseboat.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Lakes And LagoonsLakes And Lagoons
Near Pallathuruthy Bridge, Kochupalam Road, Pallathuruthy, Alappuzha, Kerala 688003, Indiahttp://lakeslagoons.com/index.php+91 477 226 6842Lakes & Lagoons is the first & only ISO 9001 – 2015 certified Houseboat Tour Company in kerala. With a fleet of more than 25 luxury Houseboat, Lakes & Lagoons offer the best backwater cruise journeys. Situated in Alleppey – A real natural treasure house, visually splendid with the blue of the lake & the green of the palms & vegetation, active with the aquatic life & local villages engaged in everyday errands.
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Day 7:
Alleppey – Kochi – Delhi
Dis-embark from the house boat and then we will begin 2 hour drive to Kochi airport to board your flight for Delhi. On arrival at Delhi airport you are met by our local representative and transfer to your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Novotel New Delhi AerocityNovotel New Delhi Aerocity
Asset No 02 Gmr Hospitality District, Igi Airport New Delhi, New Delhi, Delhi 110037, Indiahttps://all.accor.com/hotel/7560/index.en.shtml+91-11-4608-0808The hotel is located adjacent to both international & domestic airport terminals and is well connected through the Airport Express Line, just 5 minutes away. The Novotel New Delhi Aerocity is near the business hubs of Gurgaon, New Delhi, and Cyber City. It is also located close to Delhi’s shopping malls, including DLF Promenade, Emporio, and Worldmark. A big complex of 670 rooms, Novotel and Pullman New Delhi Aerocity, is a preferred destination for both business & leisure travelers.
Novotel New Delhi Aerocity has Food Exchange, a Multi-Cuisine Buffet restaurant offering an exceptional culinary experience comprising Indian, Asian and European flavors coupled with an impeccable ambiance. Further, Quoin is a 24×7 Sports Bar. The ballroom and meeting spaces at Novotel and Pullman New Delhi Aerocity are known for Car launches, Product launches, Medical Seminars, Expos, and Exhibitions. Being one of the biggest ballrooms in Delhi NCR, it provides bespoke MICE offerings.
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Day 8:
Delhi – Home
In time you are met by an Explore India representative and transferred to international airport for your onward journey.
What’s included
- Accommodation as per the program in one double room
- Daily breakfast and dinner throughout the program plus 1 lunch
- Meet and assist along with escorted transfers
- Premium houseboat backwater cruise in Alleppey with full board
- Air Conditioned chauffeured driven vehicle
- Services of an Explore India experienced tour guides
- Kathakali dance show at Cochin
- Kumabalangi local Village visit with lunch
- Entrance fees to monuments
- Bottled water during sightseeing tours and all long drives.
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
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Recent Reviews
Namaste We had an amazing experience travelling through India and as always we wish we had more time there. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in Darjeeling. Our guide Sandeep was a jewel, such a wealth of knowledge. I don't think the trip would have been such a success had it not been for him. Many of us on the tour discussed coming back to travel to the south of India next time and possibly spending more time in some places, maybe even a few days to relax on the beach, possibly Goa? Also, Sandeep felt we would very much enjoy seeing Udaipur so maybe that could be included. Also, speaking for myself and Randy, maybe you could offer an optional tour to the Maldives as we would like to go there, even if it was just for 4-5 days. I know you offer a tour on your website for the south but why don't you send out an email to everyone that was on this tour asking what interest they may have for seeing the south and maybe based on the responses you can put together a more customized tour. Of course, Sandeep will have to be the guide and he did say he would do it. We talked about late Oct, early Nov 2018, that seemed to work for everyone. Again, thank you to all your staff who helped organize and coordinate this trip. They did a great job. Best regards
Kathy and Randy Whitten
Trent Lakes, Canada
We have to write and tell you how much we enjoyed our recent trip to India, Nepal and Bhutan. Everything, from the first contact with you in the Vancouver office, to the accommodation, food, modes of transportation, and staff who travelled with us was wonderful! The guides were first class, very professional and knowledgeable, and any special request was accommodated with a smile. Our drivers knew every street and highway like the ‘back of their hand” (which is incredible in India!!!). We always arrived on time and in good humour. Having porters at each airport to personally assist us with baggage and tickets relieved a lot of stress. The “surprises” along the journey were really a special treat. The upgrade to a hotel that was rated among the “best 5 in the world” (thought I’d died and gone to heaven there!), to the welcoming drinks with you on a terrace in Connaught Circle; the extra included meals that we hadn’t expected, and we all even had new towels supplied for the overnight train ride from Agra to Varenasi. The willingness of every guide in all 3 countries to accommodate special requests or make slight changes to daily itinerary made the journey all the more pleasant. (Sometimes at the end of a long the day the group voted to eat at the hotel rather than go out). Visiting these three countries should be on everyone’s “Bucket List”. Our memories of India are the people, people, people, vibrant colors, ancient architecture, food, modes of transportation (the rickshaw rides through the back streets of Dehli and Varanasi were incredible - I wish my eyes were a camera!), rides in tuk tuks, and the 2 hour camel ride through local villages. In Nepal the flight to Everest was a “high” light, and the elephant ride in the Chitwan National Forest to look for the one-horned rhino (saw 5 up close and personal!). The flight navigating the approach to the airport in Paro, Bhutan was exciting. While descending the plane weaves between the mountains….bank left, descend, bank right descend….finally arriving safely at the most beautifully decorated airport we have ever seen. The highlights here were the people. Kind, friendly, warm, always smiling. They say that Bhutan is the happiest place in the world, and I believe it. Prayer flags, prayer wheels, the locals dressed in national costume, the markets, ancient bridges, hiking up the mountain to the Tiger’s Nest monastery….well… we made it as far as the Tea house and could look across at it and that was still wonderful. We have been recommending this trip and your company to all our travel friends. While planning this trip with you Nazir you answered all our numerous phone and email questions (“on the train is there a bathroom close to our compartment?”) promptly. The extra help with Carol’s Indian visa was really appreciated. Our trip was all we had hoped it would be because of excellent itinerary, professional staff and courtesy that we received in Vancouver and abroad. We will be travelling with you again!
Carol & Terry Noonan
North Vancouver, Canada
Sorry for not sending you an email earlier to thank you for planning our unforgettable tour of India. Our accommodations were wonderful. Upon arrival at each hotel we were greeted by friendly and helpful staff. Our driver Suresh, was amazing, getting us through busy city streets and never once did we feel unsafe with his driving. All guides were very professional and knowledgeable of all the areas we toured. We had many wonderful experiences with local people and trying local food. Being in India for Diwali Festival and joining a local family for dinner at their home was one of our highlights. Jerry and I truly feel this was a trip of a lifetime and tell everyone they should see India. We are now down in Arizona and have some friends that are interested in taking a trip to India. Would it be possible for you to email a copy of our itinerary for them. Appreciated all the work you did.
Jerry & Elaine Merritt
Coquitlam, Canada
My wife, Julia, and I wanted to express to you our satisfaction with all the arrangements that were made for our group during our travels in India. Everything was absolutely wonderful and went extremely smoothly. Our guide, Shyaam Singh, was totally amazing. He was truly a professional as well as more than flexible with making changes to our itinerary to suit our needs. His knowledge and experience was very apparent and most appreciated. Our group felt like Shyaam was part of our family and he included us in a very enjoyable experience with celebrating Diwali with one of his friends family while we were in Varanasi. This was a wonderful experience for our group. Shyaam made our experiences in India more wonderful than we could ever have expected. We will highly recommend Explore India to all of our friends, family and personal contacts for any travels to India. Thank you very much for all of your hard work put into making our travels such a beautiful experience. Sincerely, Gord and Julia Donaldson
Gord & Julia Donaldson
Calgary AB, Canada
Dear Nazir, I took your 13 day Imperial Rajasthan Tour with my sister on September 18, 2016. I meant to email earlier to tell you how highly we think of your Explore India organization. We had the BEST time. We wanted you to know that we appreciated all your assistance in arranging the trip. We were impressed by the service we received prior to our departure and during our trip. Your assistant Mandira was very helpful with advice and the material your company provides was invaluable in helping us with our planning. Once we got to India, we were well taken care of from the moment we arrived in Delhi. Our tour guide, Sundeep Singh, was excellent. We were a small group but he took the time to accommodate requests and ensure that everyone was happy. He was extremely knowledgeable about India. The history that he was able to provide at the different sites was great. He also ensured that we had the best "photo" moments, made recommendations for food (the chai tea at the market and the samosas at the rest stop were delicious!), taught us a few Hindi words and gave us (primarily the ladies on our tour) sufficient time to shop. There are some truly spectacular places to visit in India and this tour was definitely able to showcase them. We loved the extras that were included and that made this trip truly special. The accommodations were all 5 star but I loved that we stayed in some unique places like the tents in the Green Resort in Pushkar. Thank you again for everything.
Nancy Cheng
Edmonton, Canada
Explore India, October 26 – November 8, 2016, Magical India The trip was wonderful, interesting and educational. Most important we had an amazing Tour Guide in “Arvind Sharma”. We have done many tours while traveling to 108 countries around the world and Arvind is the best we have ever had. He is passionate about his country, religion, beliefs, Indian history and all the different religious groups that live in India. One of the highlights of the trip was the last minute visit to meet his family. Rajeev Sharma did an excellent job on making last minute arrangements for some of our tour members while making sure we are all happy. He does a great job of singing “Jingle Bells”. Hotels: We were pleased with all the hotels. Bus Drivers were excellent. The places we visited were very enlightening with history; the country's infrastructure, roads, and bridges are way behind other countries. Thank you for an amazing trip
Bill and Shelley
Courtice, Canada
I wanted to express our feelings and reactions to the recent trip to India. We thank you for the extraordinary efforts you made to give us a truly memorable experience. I had reservations about an organized group activity, since we have done a fair amount of travel, but usually on our own. My main objections to such a trip were: we would not have time to explore individually, and we would be stuck if we did not enjoy the journey. Let me say that neither situation developed. Our excellent guide for the majority of the trip gave us clear information on the sites of interest and allowed some time for personal exploration. Moreover, the experiences we encountered were so diversified, that even if a person chose not to be included in one aspect, he was presented with a wonderful alternative. What comes to mind here, is especially the evening dinner at a palace , or an evening of cooking instruction in Indian food. Even our flight to India was flexible, allowing for a personal extended week in Germany. The hotels and food were amazing, accommodating all types of needs, even vegan. City visits were exciting with rickshaw transportation, shopping, a visit to the famous slums of Mumbai and to Mother Teresa's Mission. Entertainment varied from watching distinctive dances to elephant and camel rides. And let's not forget the historic world heritage sites, especially the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal. It took my breath away. This was the best-organized, most interesting trip imaginable.
Tim & Ilona Salley
Toronto, Canada
Dear Nazir, Not having travelled on a tour prior to this trip, Brian and I were a bit concerned about how the itinerary would work for the two of us who tend to be rather "foot loose and fancy-free”. Our interaction with you and Mandira, while arranging our tour, was very positive, so we were quite hopeful that the tour would be just right for us. Brian and I appreciated your attention to detail, to making sure our needs were met and especially your pre-trip phone call to answer any questions we had. Our positive interaction with Explore India continued with all the staff throughout India. Our first meeting with knowledgeable, efficient, and friendly Rajeev who so competently managed all the details throughout the tour and Harry, our erudite, articulate and enthusiastic guide quickly dispelled any concerns we had. Our drivers were quite wonderful, as they took us through the hectic crowded streets of Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, and Varanasi, and through the rural roads that were crowded with oxen and other animals, keeping us safe at all times. Our assistants, in particular, Amid, were charming, taking great care of us and always providing us with much needed cold water whenever we came back to the bus. Our tour was a small group, and we quickly meddled into a cohesive group, enjoying each other’s company and sharing in the delight of exploring northern India together. The tour suited us perfectly, no name tags to wear other than the first morning when we were introduced to each other, no flags to follow, rather just a group of travellers exploring together. The Impressions of India tour was extremely well organized and the itinerary provided us with the opportunity to see the majority of historical sites in the cities and rural areas we visited. India’s history is complex and the tour and Harry our guide provided us with many insights into the past world and architecture of the Mugals, Rajputs, Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists as well as providing many insights into modern India. All of the sites we visited were both impressive and moving, however, none more so that the shimmering beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra. While we found the cities fascinating, the countryside and its people were more interesting to both of us. A request to stop by the roadside so that I could photograph the women working in the fields turned into an incredible opportunity to stop at a tiny village where we were able to interact with some of the villagers. I think the villagers were as intrigued with us as we were with them. I was very honored to be given a wee, naked baby girl to hold by a shy young mother. Throughout our trip, we continued to have opportunities to interact with the local people, which was a pleasure for all of us. It was quite interesting that in the rural areas, we were considered exotic, and as a result, a number of the locals asked us if they could take photos of us with their children. It didn’t seem to matter that our Hindi was limited to please and thank you and our only Urdu was thank you, or that many people we interacted with had no English, we were able to communicate with smiling eyes and with joy and appreciation for all the children we encountered. A highlight for all of us was an unplanned stop at a government-sponsored school in rural Rajasthan. We arrived just as the whole school, from kindergarten to high school was meeting in the hot, dusty centre courtyard. The children and teachers were thrilled to meet us and we were equally thrilled to meet them. We were introduced individually, including our occupations (or former occupations) and treated with much respect, especially Brian as a former principal, and Tina as a former mathematics teacher. Our decision to sing Oh Canada was completely spontaneous and utterly moving as the nine of us sang with great pride our national anthem to a rapt audience of students and teachers. Three teenage girls then sang the Indian national anthem with sweet young voices again to a rapt audience of staff, students, and Canadians. All too soon it was time to say goodbye as the students returned to their classrooms and we headed off to continue our exploring. Our hotels were luxurious with wonderfully attentive staff. The food was excellent wherever we were with a variety of curries and Indian specialties available at every meal. There was nothing better than freshly baked naan with each and every meal. Street vendors had small carts with the most interesting and delectable food offerings and as our stomachs grew accustomed to the Indian diet, and with our guide Harry’s direction, we were able to try some local specialties including deep fried vegetarian balls dipped into a spicy cilantro sauce, crispy potato samosas, refreshing plan in Varanasi, local sweets, and masala chai made with camel milk at a small remote tea stand. Indian culture is very different than our own and it was important to us that we not judge the people and their ways through our Western eyes but rather just let ourselves experience all that India had to offer. India is a rich and vibrant country that provided us with the most fascinating multi-sensory experiences and gave us just a small glimpse into its world and its warm and welcoming people. We feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to have been there and feel equally fortunate to have found your Explore India company which provided us with such an incredible variety of experiences in a short period of time. We definitely could not have seen as much as we did without your fascinating itinerary. Returning home to a very rainy October, we are already thinking of returning to India, and of course, when we do, we will definitely be in touch to book another trip with you. With warm regards and much appreciation,
Diane Ash & Brian Anderson
Vancouver, Canada
I was completely and totally amazed by the parts of India that we visited. I have absolutely no complaints about anyone or anything! Both Rajeev and Ravi were excellent guides/hosts. I enjoyed learning about the history and some of the back stories from Ravi, and I appreciated Rajeev's punctuality and care when we arrived in the airport and when he put on in a taxi for the airport to get back home.
Marilyn D
Richmond Hill, Canada
I thoroughly enjoyed my trip to India. I have been on many trips and this one will be at the top of my memory list. We saw so many different aspects of India and Explore India made sure all my needs were met and I was very comfortable. The tour company’s part in the trip was excellent, efficient and pleasant. We could always count on the program being carried out in a timely manner. Rajeev was beyond helpful to my sister Carol and I am truly grateful to him. He spent many extra hours caring for her. I will certainly recommend the trip and Explore India.
Joanne Cunningham
Vancouver, 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.
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