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Overview
Experience the best of India and Nepal on this incredible fully guided small-group tour, explore the ancient city of 17th century Delhi, climb aboard a bicycle rickshaw, visit the world’s best-known symbol of love…the unrivaled Taj Mahal, spot tigers frolicking in the wilderness, delight in the colorful pink city of Jaipur with a visit to the majestic Amber Fort. Finally, you will amaze as will the elaborate, ornate palaces, temples, and squares of Nepal’s capital city, an extremely captivating, interesting place to visit. As you wander through the city squares, you will come across many markets and craft shops where you can buy locally made goods. The people of Nepal are known to be some of the friendliest people in Asia, and you will be captivated by their hospitality everywhere you go. Nepalese cuisine is also going to tempt your palate as you experience the region’s tastes and flavors. As you visit the Durbar Square with its highly detailed wooden temples and Swayambhunath, a 2,000-year-old Buddhist stupa, you will begin to appreciate the history of this enchanting ancient land.
Tour Highlights
- Take an exhilarating bicycle Rickshaw ride through the historic back lanes of Old Delhi and visit the centuries-old Spice market.
- Step back in time and into the last footsteps of Mahatma Gandhi as you walk through his home for the last 144 days of his fascinating life.
- Witness the breathtaking transformation of the Taj Mahal as the sun rises over the majestic Mughal structure taking it from the splendor of the night to its magical presence at daybreak.
- In Agra, you will feel the passion of Shah Jahan & Mumtaz in adapting their love saga in the musical play entitled Shah Jahan O-Mumtaz.
- Experience the majestic Amber Fort Palace in Jaipur, built-in 1592
- Spot the elusive tigers of Ranthambore National Park with the help of a Naturalist/Guide.
- Experience the life and style of this ancient kingdom as you visit Durbar Square.
- Gain spiritual insight as you visit the ancient temples and holy monuments of this captivating land.
- Explore the unique streets of Thamel while 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:
Arrive In India (New Delhi)
Welcome to Delhi, a city that bridges two different worlds. Old Delhi, once the capital of Islamic India, is a labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with crumbling Havelis and formidable mosques. In contrast, the imperial city of New Delhi created by the British Raj is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings.
You will be greeted by an Explore India representative at the airport and then taken to the hotel. Overnight stay in Delhi
Accommodation: The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel DelhiThe Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi
1 CBD Maharaj Surajmal Road Near Yamuna Sports Complex, Vishwas Nagar Extension, Delhi, 110032, Indiahttps://www.theleela.com/en_us/hotels-in-delhi/the-leela-ambience-convention-hotel-delhi/+91 11 7172 1234The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel features 480 luxurious guest rooms and suites which are elegant, well-appointed and equipped with the latest in technology. The hotel also offers 70,000 sq. ft. of multi-purpose meeting and banqueting space, including a pillar-less ballroom of 24,497 sq. ft. with pre-function areas in excess of 25,000 sq. ft. making it one of the largest luxury convention hotels in India.
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Day 3:
Old Delhi | Rickshaw Ride | Jama Mosque | Humayun’s Tomb & Hindu Temple
After a leisurely start, we take a tour through Delhi. We begin exploring Old Delhi by visiting the Jama Mosque, the royal mosque built by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan in 1656. Then we ride a bicycle rickshaw through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk, the spine of Old Delhi that houses the spice market and jeweler’s lane. Next, we drive past the Red Fort (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). We also visit Rajghat, the site of Mahatma Gandhi’s final journey.
Later proceed to visit Humayun’s Tomb, which was built in 1565 A.D., nine years after Humayun’s death, by his senior widow wife. The most notable features are the garden squares (Chahar bagh) with pathways water channels, centrally located well proportional mausoleum topped by double dome inside the walled enclosure. There are several graves of Mughal rulers located inside the walled enclosure, and from here in 1857 A.D, Lieutenant Hudson had captured the last Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah II.
Later visit India Gate (the war memorial dedicated to the martyrs of World War I), The President’s Palace – formerly Viceroy’s Palace, the Parliament House, and the Secretariat buildings – an interesting blend of Victorian and 20th-century architecture,
Later, we will visit a Hindu temple followed by a welcome dinner in Connaught place. Overnight stay at the hotel
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel DelhiThe Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi
1 CBD Maharaj Surajmal Road Near Yamuna Sports Complex, Vishwas Nagar Extension, Delhi, 110032, Indiahttps://www.theleela.com/en_us/hotels-in-delhi/the-leela-ambience-convention-hotel-delhi/+91 11 7172 1234The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel features 480 luxurious guest rooms and suites which are elegant, well-appointed and equipped with the latest in technology. The hotel also offers 70,000 sq. ft. of multi-purpose meeting and banqueting space, including a pillar-less ballroom of 24,497 sq. ft. with pre-function areas in excess of 25,000 sq. ft. making it one of the largest luxury convention hotels in India.
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Day 4:
New Delhi | Jaipur – The Pink City
After breakfast, drive to Jaipur, known all over the world as the Pink City. Jaipur will amaze you with the architecture and planning of both its old and new cities. Experience how the city explodes into a kaleidoscope of colors and sounds at each and every corner. Jaipur is an excellent place to shop for textiles, rugs, and designer jewelry.
In the evening, enjoy an authentic dining experience with a cultural Rajasthani traditional dance and music performance.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Hilton JaipurHilton Jaipur
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Day 5:
Jaipur | Amber Fort | & City Palace
In the morning, we visit the magnificent Amber Fort, situated in the outskirts of Jaipur.
Later, we proceed for a city tour and stop for a photo at the Hawa Mahal, the ‘Palace of the Winds.’ It was built to allow the palace’s royal ladies to watch the grand processions along the main street discretely.
Next, we visit the City Palace Museum, which has a priceless collection of antiques, costumes, and armory of the Mughals and Rajputs, including swords of different shapes and sizes. Next, we continue to the Jantar Mantar Observatory, built in the early 1700s by Maharaja Jai Sing II, the great warrior-astronomer to which this city owes its name. Dinner and overnight at the hotel
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Hilton JaipurHilton Jaipur
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Day 6:
: Jaipur | Ranthambore (approx.. 4 hrs. drive)
After leisurely breakfast, drive towards the Ranthambore National Park, a true den of tigers. Near the confluence of the lakes, namely Padam Talab, Raj Bagh Talab, and Milak Talab. Apart from the Bengal Tiger, other wildlife in the Park include the Sloth Bear, Jackals, Marsh Crocodile, Leopard, Gazelle, Indian Hare, Porcupines, Jungle Cat, Sambhar, Chinkara, Mongoose, Nilgai, Wild Boar, and Monitor Lizards. The park is also equally rich in flora trees like Banyan, Dhok, Mango, and Pipal. The landscape of the park is dominated by shallow lakes, gentle slopes, and plateaus. Birds can also be seen in huge numbers. Arrive and check in at your resort.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: The Tigress Spa & Resort, RanthamboreThe Tigress Spa & Resort, Ranthambore
Village Khilchipur Near Helipad,Ranthambhore Sawai Madhopur 322001, Rajasthan Indiahttp://www.thetigress.co.in+91 9587723234Heritage property located adjacent to the Ranthambhore National Park; offer two types of Rooms to choose your relaxation option ranging from Royal Luxury Suites and Royal Luxury Villas; all tastefully designed with modern amenities to ensure that your stay is comfortable and memorable. Every room amenities includes, spacious living area, Mini bar, personal sit out area, conveniences along with courteous Room Service.
The resort offers Indian and International cuisines prepared by expert chefs blending the traditional flavors with modern techniques and the freshest ingredients to create delicious food for you. We have an experience and friendly staff to manage your trip as an unforgettable stay in resort.
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Day 7:
Ranthambore | In Search of Bengal Tiger
Your day will begin with pre-dawn coffee and biscuits before setting off on an early morning game drive by private jeep with an accompanying naturalist in search of the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. Return to your hotel for breakfast.
Time permitting: visit the women’s craft village to see the unique talents of displaced villagers used to generate income for this region. What started out in a tiny room in the Sherpur village, has now become an organization that has provided new means of livelihood to these villages.
In the late afternoon, we will return to the park for another game drive, ending our day just before sunset.
Lunch & dinner at the hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: The Tigress Spa & Resort, RanthamboreThe Tigress Spa & Resort, Ranthambore
Village Khilchipur Near Helipad,Ranthambhore Sawai Madhopur 322001, Rajasthan Indiahttp://www.thetigress.co.in+91 9587723234Heritage property located adjacent to the Ranthambhore National Park; offer two types of Rooms to choose your relaxation option ranging from Royal Luxury Suites and Royal Luxury Villas; all tastefully designed with modern amenities to ensure that your stay is comfortable and memorable. Every room amenities includes, spacious living area, Mini bar, personal sit out area, conveniences along with courteous Room Service.
The resort offers Indian and International cuisines prepared by expert chefs blending the traditional flavors with modern techniques and the freshest ingredients to create delicious food for you. We have an experience and friendly staff to manage your trip as an unforgettable stay in resort.
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Day 8:
Ranthambhore – Agra (by train: 0700-0925 hrs.) Enroute visit Fatehpur Sikri
After early breakfast, we are transferred to the train station to board our first Indian railway trip to Bharatpur.
Indian Railway, the largest employer in the world, employees nearly 1.5 million people. The history of Indian Railway in India began in the mid-nineteenth century. The core of the pressure for building railways in India came from London. In 1848, there was not a single kilometer of railway line in India. A British engineer, Robert
Maitland Brereton, was responsible for the expansion of the railways from 1857 onwards. Arrive in Bharat, transfer to our coach and drive to Agra. On our way, we will visit Fatehpur Sikri, built by Emperor Akbar in 1569. This was the old capital of the Moghuls, which was abandoned after 15 years due to the scarcity of water. See the graceful buildings including the Jama Masjid, Tomb of Salim Chisti, Panch Mahal & other palaces that are still preserved in their original glory. Later continue to Agra and check in at your hotel followed by lunch.
After lunch, enjoy some time at your leisure to relax before we leave for our evening activity.
In the evening enjoy a fascinating play that depicts the saga of love and a memorable journey into the history of Taj Mahal. The drama portrays the Mughal era in the 16th century. It is series of plays depicting the true and immortal love of Shahjahan for Mumtaz Mahal, his beautiful wife; the lavish lifestyle of Mughal era; and the hardship of the artisans who worked for 22 years to create the most precious specimen of craftsmanship. Dinner and overnight stay in the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Trident Agra Hotel, AgraTrident Agra Hotel, Agra
Fatehabad Road, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, Indiahttps://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-agra+91 562 223 5000Near the Taj Mahal, Trident, Agra is one of the best hotels in the city. Beautifully landscaped gardens and water fountains welcome you to this charming leisure hotel. Built in local red stone, reminiscent of the Mughal era, the hotel features 135 tastefully appointed rooms and suites, which overlook the central courtyard and gardens. Guests can also enjoy complimentary high speed Internet for up to four devices.
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Day 9:
Visit The Mesmerizing Taj Mahal, Agra Fort & Mohabbat The Taj Show
Early morning Tea, coffee, cookies will be serviced in the hotel lobby, followed by our visit one of the most incredible monuments ever built in the world, Taj Mahal. The monument of love was built between 1631 and 1648 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife. The Taj Mahal is the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the world’s most highly revered masterpieces. Return to hotel for breakfast.
Later we will continue our sightseeing tour with a visit to Agra Fort, which was built by Emperor Akbar in 1565; additions were made up until his grandson, Shah Jahan. It contains the hall of public and private audiences amongst many other beautiful structures. The afternoon is free to be spent as you wish. Dinner & overnight stay in the hotel
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Trident Agra Hotel, AgraTrident Agra Hotel, Agra
Fatehabad Road, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, Indiahttps://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-agra+91 562 223 5000Near the Taj Mahal, Trident, Agra is one of the best hotels in the city. Beautifully landscaped gardens and water fountains welcome you to this charming leisure hotel. Built in local red stone, reminiscent of the Mughal era, the hotel features 135 tastefully appointed rooms and suites, which overlook the central courtyard and gardens. Guests can also enjoy complimentary high speed Internet for up to four devices.
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Day 10:
Agra – Delhi (approx. 3 ½ hrs. drive)
After breakfast, you will be driven to Delhi, followed by a visit to the UNESCO World heritage site Qutab Minar, located in South Delhi; this magnificent monument in red and buff sandstone is the highest tower in India, built in the early 13th century.
Later check-in at your hotel. Dinner & overnight stay in the hotel
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Pride Plaza Hotel Aerocity, New DelhiPride Plaza Hotel Aerocity, New Delhi
Asset 5A, Hospitality District, Aerocity, Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, Delhi 110037, Indiahttp://www.pridehotel.com/delhi/new-delhi-aerocity/+91 11 6600 7700Located in close proximity to Delhi and Gurgaon, Pride Plaza Hotel Aerocity, New Delhi is the first luxury hotel in the capital by the Pride Group of Hotels.
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Day 11:
Delhi - Kathmandu (Flight 6E45/0715-0920 hrs.)
This morning you will be transferred to Delhi’s International airport to board a flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you are met by our representative and then transfer to hotel.
This afternoon, proceed for a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu city including Durbar Square, the hub of Nepal’s traditional culture and arts. Explore the historic and artistic temples, monuments, and mountain views.
Later, proceed to Thamel on the rickshaw, the best ways to explore narrow streets of Kathmandu and its little alleys with local residential areas. Stroll through nearby markets, where you can admire the work of local Thanka painting. Thamel also acts as the pre-base camp for mountaineers. It boasts a wide range of mountaineering gear shops, foreign money exchange booths, mobile phone shops, pubs, clubs, and nightlife, along with numerous guest houses.
This evening, enjoy the local Nepali cuisine for dinner while witnessing the local folk dance show. Overnight stay in Kathmandu
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 12:
Kathmandu
Early morning optional activity. The thrilling panoramic views greet you as you experience the top of the world in a once-in-a-lifetime plane ride with views of Mt. Everest. Add on $299 pp.
Breakfast at the hotel
After breakfast, we begin the sightseeing tour of Pashupatinath and Bouddhanath.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Pashupatinath Temple is one of the four most important religious sites in Asia for Shiva’s devotees. Built-in the 5th century.
The largest temple complex in Nepal stretches on both sides of the Bagmati River, considered holy by Hindus. The main pagoda style temple has a gilded roof, four sides covered in silver, and wood carvings of the finest quality. Temples dedicated to several other Hindu and Buddhist deities surround the temple of Pashupatinath.
Bouddhanath Stupa which is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal. Built sometime around the 14th century, the huge meditative monument has been created just after the passing of the Buddha. The huge offering site quickly becomes a focal point of worship and offering in the area.
Later, proceed to Patan, the oldest of all the three cities of Kathmandu valley. It is best known for its artistic heritage. It is probably one of the oldest Buddhist cities in the world. You will experience the Buddhist monuments with bronze gateways, guardian deities, and wonderful carvings, Dinner and overnight stay in Kathmandu
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 – Nagarkot (28Kms / approx. 1 ½ Hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Nagarkot, en route visiting Bhaktapur Village, also known as the ‘City of Devotees’, the ‘City of Culture,’ the ‘Living Heritage,’ and ‘Nepal’s Cultural Gem.’ It is one of the 3 royal cities in Nepal. Lying along the ancient trade route between India and Tibet, Bhaktapur is surrounded by mountains and provides a magnificent view of the Himalayas.
Post lunch, continue to Nagarkot.
On arrival in Nagarkot, check-in at the hotel.Nagarkot is renowned for its spectacular sunrise view of the Himalayas. It is famous and one of the best spots to view Mount Everest as well as other snow-topped peaks of the Himalayan range of eastern Nepal – It also offers an excellent view of the famous river valley to the east. Witness sunrise at Nagarkot, a serene scenic view from Dhaulagiri in the west to Kanchenjunga in the east. On a fine and clear day, one can watch Mount Everest’s snow peak right from here.
Nagarkot has a reputation as the top spot for enjoying Himalayan views from the comfort of your hotel balcony (weather permitting). Dinner and Overnight in Nagarkot.Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Club Himalaya, Nagarkot ResortClub Himalaya, Nagarkot Resort
Nagarkot 44812, Nepalhttps://www.clubhimalaya.com/+977 1-6680080The hotel offers a rare blend of nature and modern amenities and has become synonymous with Nagarkot ( 32 kilometers East of Kathmandu). Each room opens to a private balcony, where one can view the most splendid sunrise and sunsets. The interior is traditional and simple yet stylish and elegant. Club Himalaya’s comfortable accommodation, cozy ambiance, delicious food, and the welcoming and gracious staff creates a true ‘comfort above the clouds’ experience.
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Day 14:
Nagarkot- Kathmandu-Delhi
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kathmandu’s international airport to board a flight to Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be transferred to the hotel.
Dinner and Overnight at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Pride Plaza Hotel Aerocity, New DelhiPride Plaza Hotel Aerocity, New Delhi
Asset 5A, Hospitality District, Aerocity, Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, Delhi 110037, Indiahttp://www.pridehotel.com/delhi/new-delhi-aerocity/+91 11 6600 7700Located in close proximity to Delhi and Gurgaon, Pride Plaza Hotel Aerocity, New Delhi is the first luxury hotel in the capital by the Pride Group of Hotels.
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Day 15:
Delhi – Home
In time you will be transferred to Delhi’s international airport to board a flight back home.
Optional: 3 Day Trip to Varanasi.
Extend your trip to the Holy City of Varanasi, the religious capital of Hinduism and one of the oldest living cities in the world. Ask us for more details?
What’s included
- International Roundtrip Airfare from Canada
- 13 nights’ accommodation in well-reviewed first-class hotels
- 27 meals as per the program – breakfast, dinners, and lunches
- Airport meet and greet with private group transfers
- Complimentary unlimited mineral water during sightseeing tours
- Snacks on board during long drives
- Entry tickets to all monuments as per the tour program
- In-country airfares Delhi – Kathmandu – Delhi
- Extensive sightseeing tour led by professional English-speaking tour manager
- Early morning tea, coffee, and cookies before the sunrise visit to Taj Mahal and Wildlife Safari at Tiger Reserve
- Cultural dance program in Jaipur along with dinner
- FREE: Complimentary welcome kit on arrival – hand sanitizers, wet tissues, charging plugs, etc.
- FREE Wi-Fi
- FREE: 24/7 Explore India Concierge team to assist with any last-minute, unexpected, and unusual requests
What’s excluded
- Personal expenses
- Services other than in our inclusion
- Nepal Tourist Visa Fees are USD $25 per person.
- India Tourist Visa Fees USD $40
- Taxes additional $163 per person
- Gratuities – $195 CAD per person must be paid after your arrival in India directly to your tour director. These basic gratuities will cover tour escorts, luggage handling, porters, restaurants, drivers, and other members providing services during your tour. Applies to group tours only.
Select a gateway:
Prices include Roundtrip Airfare from - to India.
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Recent Reviews
I thoroughly enjoyed the trip to India. Our guide, Ashish, was incredible. He was so knowledgeable and provided wonderful stories and history at each of our stops. He had incredible patience with all of us travelers and photographers and tried to accommodate all of our needs and desires. The size of the group was very workable and we all seemed to get along and enjoyed each other’s company. The driver and his assistant were more than competent and got us through some very tight spaces. I would recommend Explore India to anyone considering a trip to India!
Karen Corness
Surrey, BC, Canada
Hi Nazir: I meant to respond to you before now, but a number of work and family issues have taken my time and attention. First of all, let me say that I enjoyed my trip immensely. Indeed, it will take me considerable time to digest the experience. India is so different in every way (and then some) from Canada. We were exposed to the culture, history, life, architecture and spiritual side of India while being protected from the extreme change. Your guides were all experts, sensitive to individual and group needs, but able to keep the tour moving. Sandeep was especially good. I feel I have truly been absorbed into India and its way of life. The guides in Nepal were also excellent, and they were so proud of their country. Our guide there took us to the home of a friend for a "cooking" experience. They were such a nice family and so hospitable. They offered real insight into traditional family life, but also the younger generation's energy to get ahead. The guide's friend (who had trained with him for his guiding certificate/license) also owns a coffee shop in the old part of the city and her husband is in medical school. The whole family (his parents, brother and the couple) lives in a very modest 3 level apartment under conditions Canadians would complain about. Still, they were so generous, friendly and hospitable. I never felt vulnerable or in danger the whole time. I'm sure this was carefully managed by the guides. Still, people were genuinely friendly, in spite of the fact that we were obviously naive and privileged westerners. The hotels were all top notch. It was wonderful to be able to hole into some western comfort at the end of the day. The Delhi hotels near the airport were very nice and appreciated when air travel was involved. The hotel in Udaipur was charming and unique - what an experience! I think Udaipur is my favourite city in India. All in all, it was a wonderful experience that I will never forget - a once in a lifetime experience. You can be proud of what you have achieved. From a traveller's perspective, it was excellent value with all one could ask from a tour. Many thanks for all your help - especially the travel hitch with Air Canada at the front end in the Sault and Toronto. All the best,
Larry Whalen Sault Ste.Marie
Sault Ste.Marie, Canada
This is how we tell it:) After reading an ad in the Globe& Mail, phone calls to Nazir (voice of confidence and charm) what could l say. Although it took some time to do some research and a few emails/calls finally it was a go... From the first morning at 300a.m.in our hotel in Delhi we first met our Leader we were confident we had made a good choice for our first trip to India. As we reflect the first thing that comes to mind is how well every detail was so well organized, the personal touch and the caring way that our Leader Nazir looked out for everyone was absolutely amazing.. Some of the many moments that stick out in my mind:) Never in my wildest dream had l ever thought of spending Valentine day in Old Delhi, the sights, the sounds & the crowds l could never imagine or was l prepared. The Jama Mosque, Bicycle Rickshaw ride(just one of several)memorial site of Mahatma Gandhi, the Unesco sites, more Mosques, more Temples and. amazing Forts...To top off the day like all others to follow was the accommodations & dining experiences all extra-ordinary. We also remember Varnasi, the religious Capital of Hinduism again the Temples & Museum, the Banks of the Ganges to witness the ceremony of the Aarti to the sunrise early next morning to see the bathing Ghats. Also how could we ever forget another early morning to "The Jewel,The Great TAJ" There was so much more,2 memorable elephant rides, one in the early morning another at sunset through the bush ending with a party of entertainment, dancing and FOOD(always food)The most amazing evening Camel ride at a Safari Camp, again a lovely evening under the evening sky on the desert, another banquet with entertainment and dancing. No travel brochure or photo could ever capture any of these settings,They are more than words can explain. Everytime we tell friends or recall an experience we come up with more WOWS Nazir..not only were you our fearless leader but you were always showing your sincere concern that we all have a good time in your beloved country. We loved the trip, we enjoyed our travel companions and now we bask in the memories. Cheers,
Lorne & Dori Ebel
Orangeville, Canada
We just wanted to thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The drivers, helpers, tour guides and accommodations were all first class & the itinerary was amazing. We really appreciated your guidance through our booking & your colleagues in India as well. Thanks again! I will definitely be passing along your contact info to a # of people. Cheers.
Gaye and Brant Wishart
Halifax, Canada
Namaste! It was a wonderful holiday!-Just loved everything!--temples-rickshaw-tigers(we saw 2!!!!)-Taj Mahal-elephant ride and amber fort!!-We had a perfect group of people-made so many new friends!-We all just got along perfectly!-We were all around the same age. Yasur -not sure of spelling-was great-so knowledgeable and easy going!--It was a trip of a lifetime for me and I thank you so much!- Also Rajeev was very friendly and helpful!--Thank you again !!
Joan Wenham
North Vancouver, Canada
Dear Nazir, We thought that you would enjoy the attached photograph of the "Dream Team, 2015." As this year draws to a close we thank you for all the wonderful memories that you gave us in November and we hope that you and your family have a very happy, healthy and prosperous New Year. We remain interested in the Kashmir adventure that you proposed for next September and are willing to put down a refundable deposit to hold a couple of spots pending pricing and final itinerary if that works for you. Best wishes,
Danielle & Dean
Burnaby, Canada
I apologise for taking so long to get back to you after our trip to India. I want to thank you very much for having put such a wonderful trip together for Janine and me. We thoroughly enjoyed the whole adventure, the time in Kashmir was magical as were the visits to Jaipur and Agra. I can't think of any part of it that in retrospect we would have done differently.
Brian and Janine Bell
Vancouver, Canada
Yes we are home it was a wonderful holiday Nazir. I think I would have liked longer now that I see what the country is like. The people we met on the tour were lovely and all of the Indian people charming and gracious, so pleased to have us as tourists in their country. Our bus drivers were amazing what a job! and Sandeep did his job with ease and humour, a very knowledgeable young man. Thanks to your team.
Wayne Reid
North Vancouver, 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
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
Check & Compare
You can read hundreds of online reviews of destinations and hotels, but with our up-to-date first-hand knowledge, we will be able to compare and contrast different options and ensure we find something that is just right for you.
You will travel to India like a member of our own family. Our deep love and passion for India and its people, we are a family owned and operated luxury travel company.
Planning a trip needs careful care and attention to detail and that is where Explore India comes in with the passion to make every tour a hassle-free and memorable one for each of our guests.
Be sure to take notice of our standard of accommodation, the specialized sightseeing trips, the seamless flow of the itinerary, the comfort of the coach you will travel in, the customized dining experiences, and much more.
FEEL CONFIDENT TRAVELING WITH EXPLORE INDIA
No company is big or small when you have 100% capability of exceeding guest expectations. A rating of 10 out of 10 does not adequately reflect the level of the experience and value of the tour that we provide to India especially for the first time visitors. Explore India’s success can be traced all the way back to those early days of learning what it means to be a host and to this day, our motto is to treat the guest like a member of the family. A sure testimonial to the business, given the fact that many Canadians have travelled not one, not twice, but three times with Explore India, the early teachings seem to have paid off, as touring to India with us is a sought-after experience in Canada and beyond.