Contact us for pricing
Quick Menu
Overview
If you have a sense of adventure and enjoy luxury accommodations, Explore India’s Highlights of Northern India tour has been custom made just for you. This small group luxury tour highlights the best of northern India. From the vibrant city of Mumbai to the beautiful lakes of the colourful region of Rajasthan, to the opulence of the spectacular Taj Mahal, you will be amazed at every turn on this trip of a lifetime. Equally impressive on your tour are the luxury accommodations that will welcome you at days end greeting you with world class service and comfort. You are about to embark on an adventure where you will experience Indian culture in a way like never before, from cooking Indian cuisine with a local family in Udaipur to an excursion to the majestic Amber Fort Palace by Jeep which was built in 1593 in Jaipur. Visit the exquisitely carved temples of Khajuraho, and last, but certainly not least, you will experience the incredible energy alive in the ancient city of Varanasi, a place where both death and life come together in such a beautiful and magical way. All this and so much more………..
Tour Membership 02 – 10 Guest.
Explore India and feel the magic that will change your life
Tour Highlights
Itinerary
-
Day 1:
Arrive Mumbai, India
Arrive in Mumbai, and your Explore India representative meets and transfers you to your hotel which is called the landmark of Mumbai.
Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: The Taj Mahal Palace HotelThe Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
-
Day 2:
Mumbai Sightseeing Tour
After breakfast, you will explore the sounds and sights of Mumbai originally known as Bombay, visit the Gateway of India, an 85-foot-high arch whose design reflects India’s Muslim and Hindu traditions. Visit the Prince of Wales Museum and Mani Bhawan, a small museum dedicated to the life and works of Mahatma Gandhi. Later we will see the Dhobi Ghat, the largest open-air laundry in the world, and witness hundreds of men and women hand-wash sheets and garments etc.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: The Taj Mahal Palace HotelThe Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
-
Day 3:
Mumbai – Udaipur & Elephanta Caves
This morning we will cruise from Mumbai Harbour to Elephanta Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Elephanta Island is the site of the magnificent Elephanta caves, containing beautiful carvings, sculptures, and a temple to the Hindu God, Lord Shiva. The island, being a commercial, military and religions center for centuries also has traces of early Buddhist culture. Here, Indian art has found one of its most perfect expressions, particularly the huge high reliefs in the main cave. Later this afternoon, fly to Udaipur and transfer to your luxury romantic Palace hotel. Travel and Leisure Magazine rated the Taj Lake one of the best hotels in the world. After settling in, take in the magnificent views of the City Palace and Jag Mandir from the hotel’s balconies.
Later this evening enjoy cooking, along with dinner with a family that has played a significant role in the affairs of the state over the centuries. Such was the faith of the Maharana that the family served as Prime Ministers, valued advisors and official hosts to all the dignitaries visiting Mewar as state Guests.
The family has had the distinction of serving their cuisine to the Queen Elizabeth, Jacqueline Kennedy and Pandit Jawarlal Nehru the first prime minister of independent India.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Taj Lake Palace, UdaipurTaj Lake Palace, Udaipur
Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, Indiahttps://taj.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj-lake-palace-udaipur/?utm_medium=Local&utm_source=Google&utm_campaign=Taj-Lake-Palace-Udaipur+91 294 242 8800Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur, is the most romantic hotel in the world. It was built in 1746 as the pleasure palace of Maharana Jagat Singh II
Taj Lake Palace is one of the most recognisable residences in the world , since it has been featured in many films and TV serials, most notably, Octopussy and The Jewel in The Crown.
-
-
Day 4:
Udaipur | Private Cruise to Jag Mandir Island
We will enjoy a sightseeing tour visiting City Palace, a conglomeration of buildings added by various Maharanas; the palace manages to retain a surprising uniformity of design. Then head to the crystal Gallery, It has a rare collection of Osler’s crystal ordered from England by Maharana Sajjan Singh in 1877. Next, we will visit the Garden of the Maids of Honor locally called Saheliyon ki Bari, which has retained all its traditional charm. It was designed in the early 18th Century for the ladies Afternoon at leisure. In the evening cruise on the placid, mystical waters of Lake Pichola. We will explore this glimmering lake, the mountains and the city against the backdrop of a beautiful sunset.
Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Taj Lake Palace, UdaipurTaj Lake Palace, Udaipur
Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, Indiahttps://taj.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj-lake-palace-udaipur/?utm_medium=Local&utm_source=Google&utm_campaign=Taj-Lake-Palace-Udaipur+91 294 242 8800Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur, is the most romantic hotel in the world. It was built in 1746 as the pleasure palace of Maharana Jagat Singh II
Taj Lake Palace is one of the most recognisable residences in the world , since it has been featured in many films and TV serials, most notably, Octopussy and The Jewel in The Crown.
-
-
Day 5:
Udaipur – Pushkar & Lord Brahma Temples
After breakfast we drive to Pushkar, along the way you will experience the country with camel carts,, trucks, cows, buffalos, Pushkar has many temples and most of the temples are not very old because many temples were destroyed during Muslim conquests in the area subsequently, the destroyed temples were rebuilt. The most famous among all is the Brahma Temple built during the 14th century CE. Very few temples to Lord Brahma exist anywhere in the world, arrive and check into the hotel. Later we will take a short camel. Next, we will explore the Ghats and the Temples around the Pushkar Lake Overnight stay in Pushkar.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: The Gateway Resort PushkarThe Gateway Resort Pushkar
-
Day 6:
Pushkar – Jaipur | The Pink City
After morning breakfast we drive to Jaipur, the city of Jaipur owes its names, foundation and its careful planning to the great warrior, astronomer Maharaja Jai Singh II. In 1727, with Mughal power on the wane, Jai Singh decided to move down from his hillside fortress at nearby Amber to a new site on the plains. He laid out the city, with its surrounding walls and six rectangular blocks, according to the principles of town planning set down in Shilpa Shastra, an ancient Hindu treatise on architecture. Arrive in Jaipur and check in at the hotel. The evening is at leisure.
Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Taj Jai Mahal Palace, JaipurTaj Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur
Jacob Road, Civil Lines, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302006, Indiahttps://taj.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj-jai-mahal-palace-jaipur/+91 141 660 1111Step into a 270-year-old Indo-Saracenic architectural masterpiece set amidst landscaped Mughal gardens at Taj Jai Mahal Palace in Jaipur.At this luxury heritage hotel, you experience unparalleled opulence with tantalising comforts. With its blend of heritage, elegance and luxury, you experience an exclusive royal lifestyle at this hotel.
-
-
Day 7:
Jaipur - Amber Fort & Maharaja Palace
In the morning after breakfast, enjoy an excursion to Amber Fort including an elephant ride ascent to the fort. Amber is the classic romantic Rajasthani Fort Palace. Its construction was started by Man Singh I in 1592, and completed by his descendent Jai Singh I. Its forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds its ultimate expression. Visit City Palace – A delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture, the City Palace sprawls over one-seventh of the area in the walled city. Jantar Mantar – This is the largest and the best preserved of the five observatories built by Jai Singh II in different parts of the country. This observatory consisting of outsized astronomical instruments is still in use. Hawa Mahal – The ornamental facade of this “Palace of Winds” is a prominent landmark in Jaipur. Their five-story structures of sandstone plastered pink encrusted with fine trelliswork and elaborate balconies. The palace has 953 niches and windows. Built in 1799 by Pratap Singh, the Mahal was a royal grandstand for the palace women.
Meals: Breakfast, LunchAccommodation: Taj Jai Mahal Palace, JaipurTaj Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur
Jacob Road, Civil Lines, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302006, Indiahttps://taj.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj-jai-mahal-palace-jaipur/+91 141 660 1111Step into a 270-year-old Indo-Saracenic architectural masterpiece set amidst landscaped Mughal gardens at Taj Jai Mahal Palace in Jaipur.At this luxury heritage hotel, you experience unparalleled opulence with tantalising comforts. With its blend of heritage, elegance and luxury, you experience an exclusive royal lifestyle at this hotel.
-
-
Day 8:
Jaipur – Agra & Ghost Town
After breakfast, leave for Agra, en route, visit the abandoned Mughal city of 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 which are still preserved in their original glory. Continue drive to Agra. Remaining of the day at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, LunchAccommodation: ITC Mughal – A Luxury Collection Hotel, AgraITC Mughal – A Luxury Collection Hotel, Agra
Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, Indiahttps://www.itchotels.in/hotels/agra/itcmughal.html+91 562 402 1700 -
-
Day 9:
Agra & Taj Mahal
In the morning visit the world famous Taj Mahal built by Moghul Emperor Shahjahan in 1630 for his Queen Mumtaz Mahal to enshrine her mortal remains. Later visit the Agra Fort containing the Halls of Public and Private Audience. After breakfast, enjoy a city tour of Agra. Visit Red Fort, which was built by Emperor Akbar in 1565, and additions were made up until the time of his grandson, Shah Jahan. It contains the hall of public and private audiences amongst many other beautiful structures; Itmad-ud-daulah, which was constructed by Nur Jahan between 1622 and 1628 and is very similar to the tomb she constructed for her husband, Jehangir, near Lahore in Pakistan.
Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: ITC Mughal – A Luxury Collection Hotel, AgraITC Mughal – A Luxury Collection Hotel, Agra
Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, Indiahttps://www.itchotels.in/hotels/agra/itcmughal.html+91 562 402 1700 -
-
Day 10:
Agra –Jhansi – Orcha & Indian Railway
Morning transfer to railway station to board the famous Shitbdi express train to Jhansi, Arrive Jhansi & drive to Orchha & transfer to hotel. Later tour of this historical site with magnificent temples and monuments. Some of the palaces were decorated with painted murals which represent the finest flowering of the Bundela school of painting.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Amar MahalAmar Mahal
-
Day 11:
Orcha – Khajuraho & Kamasutra
After breakfast we drive to the medieval temples of Khajuraho, these temples dedicated to the Hindu pantheon of Gods are covered in carvings that are a paean to life and love. Built within a short span of a hundred years by the Chandela Rajputs, the 10th-century temples lay forgotten until they were discovered in the present century. Khajuraho has achieved fame for the sensual appeal of its erotic sculptures. Arrive Khajuraho & transfer to hotel
After breakfast drive to Khajuraho, The legendary temples of Khajuraho are an incomparable experience. Acknowledged as one of the world’s artistic wonders, these temples dedicated to the Hindu pantheon of Gods are covered in carvings that are a paean to life and love. Built within a short span of a hundred years by the Chandela Rajputs, the 10th-century temples lay forgotten until they were discovered in the present century. Khajuraho has achieved fame for the sensual appeal of its erotic sculptures. Arrive Khajuraho & transfer to hotel. Later explore the Western and Eastern temples of Khajuraho while your guide explains the intricate meaning and legends behind each describable sculpture.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Radisson Jass KhajurahoRadisson Jass Khajuraho
बायपास मार्ग, MP SH 9, Khajuraho, 471606, Indiahttp://www.radisson.com/khajurahoin+91 78989 18433ituated within five kilometres of the Civil Aerodrome Khajuraho airport (HJR), Radisson Hotel Khajuraho is an ideal place to stay while visiting area attractions. Our hotel lies less than two kilometres from many historic Hindu and Jain temples, including the Western Group of Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Panna National Park, famous for its tigers and the impressive Pandav Falls, is less than an hour away.
-
-
Day 12:
Khajuraho – Varanasi & Holy Ganges
After breakfast, fly to Varanasi, a city of more than a thousand Hindu and Buddhist temples and shrines, sacred to Hindus and Buddhists, Arrive and transfer to your hotel. Later this evening you will continue on to banks of the Ganges for evening rituals to witness the devotional ceremony of Aarti after sunset performed by devout Hindus. Take in the sounds of chanted prayers and rhythmic drumming as you watch the Hindu priests — holding lanterns to keep the darkness at bay.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Taj Ganges, VaranasiTaj Ganges, Varanasi
Nadesar Palace Ground, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221002, Indiahttps://gateway.tajhotels.com/en-in/ganges-varanasi/+91 542 666 0001The ancient temple city of Varanasi has yet another landmark in The Gateway Hotel Varanasi. Featured among the top 5 star hotels in the city, The Gateway Hotel Varanasi is nestled amidst 40 acres of lush gardens at a convenient distance (about 45 minutes drive) from the airport.
-
-
Day 13:
Varanasi – Boat Cruise & Temples
Early morning at dawn you will take a sunrise cruise on the River Ganges for a most serene experience. You will see pilgrims and priests fill the riverbanks bathing in the holy waters and performing various other rituals. This unique experience literally transports you to another world. After breakfast, visit the Bharat Mata Temple, which houses a huge marble relief map of India, the Durga Temple, the Tulsi Manas Mandir beside the Banaras Hindu University and the Mosque of Mughal Emperor Aurangazeb. The city is famous also for its silk sarees and we visit some of the houses where the beautiful silk sarees are woven.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Taj Ganges, VaranasiTaj Ganges, Varanasi
Nadesar Palace Ground, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221002, Indiahttps://gateway.tajhotels.com/en-in/ganges-varanasi/+91 542 666 0001The ancient temple city of Varanasi has yet another landmark in The Gateway Hotel Varanasi. Featured among the top 5 star hotels in the city, The Gateway Hotel Varanasi is nestled amidst 40 acres of lush gardens at a convenient distance (about 45 minutes drive) from the airport.
-
-
Day 14:
Varanasi – Delhi & India’s Capital
After breakfast, fly to Delhi India’s capital. On arrival, you will be met by an Explore India representative and transfer to your hotel.
Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: The Taj Mahal Hotel, DelhiThe Taj Mahal Hotel, Delhi
No.1, Man Singh Road, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, Indiahttps://taj.tajhotels.com/en-in/the-taj-mahal-hotel-new-delhi/?utm_source=Google&utm_campaign=The-Taj-Mahal-Hotel-New-Delhi&utm_medium=Local+91 11 6656 6162The Taj Mahal Hotel is a five-star deluxe hotel located in the very heart of New Delhi. On Number One Mansingh Road, it stands as tribute to timeless hospitality and service, complementing the broad leafy boulevards of Delhi’s chief architect, Sir Edwin Lutyens. Its proximity to the seat of government, the city’s diplomatic corps, and entertainment, heritage and business districts has furthered the hotel’s reputation as the epicentre of the capital. Prominent landmarks – India Gate, the Presidential Palace and the National Museum – are a short 10-minute drive away.
The glorious Mughal architecture, dramatic façade of pink Dholpur sandstone, impeccable gardens and pool give it the ambience of a luxurious in-city haven.
All around, grandeur meets understated elegance. Antiques, priceless art, and traditional accents & colours are impeccably woven together with contemporary style and modern amenities. Stay in our 292 luxurious rooms and grand suites, all of which offer stunning aerial views of Delhi’s historic skyline, or at our one-of-a-kind Presidential Suite, all perfected to host dignitaries and celebrities from across the globe.
-
-
Day 15:
Old & New Delhi
In the morning tour of Old Delhi, built in 1648 during the reign of Shah Jahan in red sandstone, visit the Jama Masjid which is India’s largest mosque, built of red sandstone and white marble in the middle of the 17th century which gave the fort its name. Ride Like a Local as you set off on an exciting rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, the bustling main street of Old Delhi, inching your way through a maze of ox carts filled with fresh produce, cars and the occasional wandering cow. Pause for lunch, and then visit New Delhi, including Humayun’s Tomb, a Mughal complex whose symmetrical designs prefigured the Taj Mahal.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: The Taj Mahal Hotel, DelhiThe Taj Mahal Hotel, Delhi
No.1, Man Singh Road, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, Indiahttps://taj.tajhotels.com/en-in/the-taj-mahal-hotel-new-delhi/?utm_source=Google&utm_campaign=The-Taj-Mahal-Hotel-New-Delhi&utm_medium=Local+91 11 6656 6162The Taj Mahal Hotel is a five-star deluxe hotel located in the very heart of New Delhi. On Number One Mansingh Road, it stands as tribute to timeless hospitality and service, complementing the broad leafy boulevards of Delhi’s chief architect, Sir Edwin Lutyens. Its proximity to the seat of government, the city’s diplomatic corps, and entertainment, heritage and business districts has furthered the hotel’s reputation as the epicentre of the capital. Prominent landmarks – India Gate, the Presidential Palace and the National Museum – are a short 10-minute drive away.
The glorious Mughal architecture, dramatic façade of pink Dholpur sandstone, impeccable gardens and pool give it the ambience of a luxurious in-city haven.
All around, grandeur meets understated elegance. Antiques, priceless art, and traditional accents & colours are impeccably woven together with contemporary style and modern amenities. Stay in our 292 luxurious rooms and grand suites, all of which offer stunning aerial views of Delhi’s historic skyline, or at our one-of-a-kind Presidential Suite, all perfected to host dignitaries and celebrities from across the globe.
-
-
Day 16:
Depart Delhi
In time Explore India representative will transfer you to the international airport for your flight home.
All good things must come to an end. We hope you enjoyed your vacation and we look forward to welcoming you soon on your next adventure.
What’s included
- Roundtrip Airfare onboard Air Canada*
- Hand-selected accommodation in 5-star luxury hotels & resorts
- Airport meet and greet with private group transfers
- Daily breakfast, plus 8 dinners and 4 lunches
- English-Speaking resident tour manager and local guides
- Extensive sightseeing tours
- Cultural programs
- Indian cooking class with a local family in Udaipur
- Air-conditioned transportation
- Unlimited bottled water during sightseeing tours
- Snacks on board during long drives
- Entry tickets to monuments
- Internal airfares
- Free Wi-Fi
- 24/7 Explore India On-Call Support
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
- Additional taxes $473
Select a gateway:
Prices include Roundtrip Airfare from - to India.
Recent Reviews
We thoroughly enjoyed the excellent trip you prepared for us to visit India. Adding our pre-tour to Varanasi and our post tour to Mumbai and Aurangabad to the main Camel Festival Tour gave us a wonderful introduction to India. Within the Camel Festival Tour, you gave us a wide variety of experiences in the monuments and places we visited and the places we stayed at night. We especially enjoyed the nights in the Tent City with the outdoor barbecues and bonfires. And we had such nice people to travel with. Thanks for all of this. And I must add that Rouf did an excellent job for us accompanying us to Mumbai and Aurangabad. We are telling all of our friends about you and your company Explore India. We wish you all the best in the years to come,
Mimi and John Hart
Toronto, 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
My wife and I and our friends were very satisfied with your arrangements, which were well organized and efficient. I appreciate your assistance in planning this trip to India. I would also like to comment on “Sandeep Singh” for providing exceptional services and professionalism. He went above and beyond his call of duty to ensure we had the most enjoyable experience in India. He was enthusiastic, informative, engaging, professional, helpful, organized and friendly, not to mention a wealth of knowledge. I would like to also comment on the tour bus operator and his assistant for providing a safe and efficient service. And last but not least, thank you to Rajeev for coordinating behind the scenes. We will be definitely recommending Explore India to our friends and family. Thank you once again.
Rob and Julie
Calgary, Canada
Thank you very much for the welcome home card. The trip was quite wonderful. Your organisation and attention to detail made the holiday nearly perfect – I can’t hold you accountable for the weather! I hadn’t expected to be staying in such luxurious hotels but certainly enjoyed them. Another bonus was that you had included tips for hotel staff so we did not have to constantly think about that. I don’t usually like the designs on vacation bags but your elephant design for Explore India replicated on the small bag and duffle bag is very appealing and I enjoy using them. Please keep me on your mailing list for future trips. It is unlikely that I will be travelling in the next year or so but would certainly like to visit another part of that magnificent country at some time.
Michele Becker
Vancouver, Canada
Hello, Nazir. I thought I would drop you a note with some comments on our trip to India. As you know, I was quite apprehensive about the trip before we left, partly because I knew it was going to be a completely new experience for us, and also because of the alerts about the unusually high levels of pollution and the demonetization announcement by Prime Minister Modi which took effect just before we left Vancouver. (From an outsiders point of view, it appeared that the people most negatively affected by this drastic move were the “have nots”, rather than those who were the primary target.) I will begin by saying that this trip was truly the most memorable travelling experience we have ever had. We will never forget the sights, the sounds, the people, the colour, the life. The biggest highlight for us was Varanasi (all aspects of the city and the sights, but especially going out on the River Ganges both in the evening and again at sunrise the next morning.). It was like stepping into a different world. I am so glad you suggested that we go there. It truly does have a spiritual feeling. A bonus for us was seeing parts of two weddings that took place at our hotel when we were there. We had never seen an Indian wedding before, and the decorations, music, and colourful dress were fun and entertaining to watch. The tour we took with our guide, Ada, to one of the slums in Mumbai was also an eye-opening and unforgettable experience. Seeing the recycling of mountains of “garbage; watching the men sewing fabrics in small rooms; having the children play and wave and smile at us (but not asking for money); observing the making of pottery and the use of what appeared to be homemade kilns; watching the preparations for a birthday party with many of the neighbours joining in to help; and on and on. We had expected an atmosphere of Despair, but instead felt that this was a vibrant, active community, despite the basic nature of the housing and the lack of so many amenities we take for granted. We have no way of knowing if this slum was representative of the many other slums which were apparent in some of the cities we visited, but we will not forget it. We also loved Jaipur and are glad we spent an extra day there. The elephant ride up to the Amber Fort with its wonderful views out over the countryside; the observatory with its enormous and precision instruments; watching the full process of carpet making including weaving, scraping, washing, burning of the fibers with a blow torch; and hand washing (hard work); another wedding which we spent watching by the pool at the beautiful Taj hotel; the street scenes with people, animals, merchants, crazy traffic – all of it was wonderful. We had expected to be impressed with the Taj Mahal in Agra (and we were), but we actually enjoyed the “baby Taj” just as much – fewer people, and our excellent guide pointed out the beauty in the chiseled flower and other patterns in the marble (and we later had a chance to see how this was done). Walking through Old Delhi was also a fascinating experience, as was our visit to the Sikh Temple, and the beautiful monuments and buildings in New Delhi. The Taj Hotels were great, and I doubt if we will ever see a more beautiful hotel than the Taj Palace in Mumbai. If I had to choose again, I would have chosen the Taj Hotel in Delhi, rather than the Meridian (which was very nice, but had more of a feel of a business hotel). Our guides were also great – all different, but really good at explaining what we were seeing and giving us the history of all the places we visited. It was hard to take it all in, but we really appreciated their enthusiasm. Special kudos go to our guide in Varanasi (Prem?) and in Mumbai (Ada?), but they were all good. Khalid was also very hard-working, sincere, and we really appreciated his extra efforts on our behalf throughout. We were very sorry about the additional work we caused when we left our suitcase at the airport in Mumbai and really appreciated the time and effort of everyone who helped us get it back. Anyway, this is a long story, but we really wanted you to know how much we appreciated all your ongoing encouragement and efforts, and those of the people who work with and for you. If it had not been for you, we never would have gone to India and we would have missed the experience of a lifetime. We will definitely tell all of our friends that Explore India is the way to go and that India should be on their bucket list. Many of our friends figured if we could do it, they could do it. And we did it! Thanks again Nazir. We hope to get back to India in a couple of years, and maybe Nepal (and Kashmir when it is more settled). At that time, we will be in touch. Best regards,
Jo-Ann Prowse and Gerry Green
Vancouver, Canada
I know you must be very busy but I just wanted to pass on my thanks to you for the wonderful vacation that Kay and I had recently to India. Our guides, Sharma, and Hilal were over the top with their help and the information they provided to us. Kay and I have been on many tours with various agencies over the past but I can honestly say that this is one of the best that we have ever been on. India is a fascinating country and even though we just saw a little we are still left in awe. I just wanted to pass this on to you because many times no one ever lets you know how much your tour was appreciated. We will be back. Thank you, and all of your associates for giving us such great memories. Kay and Morris Golden
Kay and Morris Golden
Edmonton, Albert AB, Canada
To Nazir, Mandira and all those who made our Indian trip so memorable, there is so much praise I would like to heap upon you all for giving us such a memorable trip to India, but having read Charles Beales' email to you I couldn't put it more eloquently than he has done, and Michael and I endorse every word he said. It was simply fabulous. We have memories and experiences which will last a lifetime. How we fitted so much into such a short time span I will never know, but it was all due to our amazing guide Harry, and at no time did I feel pressured or unable to cope. Harry is the most wonderful human being it has been my privilege to meet in many years, and your company is so lucky to have such a gem in its employ. Downtime, mealtimes, sightseeing and travelling, everything was so smooth and effortless, right down to the last detail, which was finding out that a sandwich and a snack had been ordered and prepaid on our final flight from Toronto to Vancouver. We were totally exhausted by then, and that last touch was perfection!! I will certainly endorse your company, and you must use my name if you have older travellers who might be nervous at such an undertaking. Two weeks before we left I thought I was going to have to do the trip in a wheelchair, but I managed as well as the group, if a fraction slower, and Harry organized things so that I was never aware of slowing anyone down. Everyone was so very helpful. I would definitely recommend that people who have problems walking, perhaps with age or arthritis take advantage of the wheelchair services offered by the airlines, though, even if not strictly necessary. It means no long waits standing in queues for customs, tickets or bags, and eliminates potential walks of a kilometer or more to get to a gate. It was a godsend for me. God bless you all, and I think you will see us again on a cruise perhaps. Regards,
Gillian Evison
West Vancouver, Canada
Dear Nazir, It’s difficult to put into words what we experienced in India! My husband (who was a last minute replacement) and I absorbed the sights, sounds and smells of this fascinating country and came away with completely different attitudes to it. You delivered on every promise. The hotels were excellent, the food choices met all tastes and the itinerary was full of surprises and extremely interesting. There is one person who deserves much praise and that is Ravi, our tour guide. He was the person who kept us informed and safe. His professionalism and his knowledge are to be admired and it is obvious that he is very experienced at his job. I won’t hesitate to recommend Explore India to all my friends. As far as I am concerned the secret for a successful trip to a country such as India is to engage a reputable company and I knew that I had done that from the very beginning. Thank you. Gemma Brooks Montreal QC
Gemma Brooks
Montreal, QC
I just want to drop you a line to commend you on our first class recent tour of India. Everything was first rate. I could not complain about a single thing in terms of our accommodations, guides, transportation and itinerary. I would recommend your company as 'the' way to see India, particularly for women or first time visitors. You have great people working for you in India. I would particularly like to acknowledge Youvee, our travelling companion and Naresh and Das, our van drivers. They spent 5 days with us. Together the three of them catered to our every wish and went out of their way to insure our safety and well being. Youvee handled arrangements such that we never had to wait. He accompanied us on our journeys, deflecting hawkers with innovation and compassion for both us and them. He maintained a pleasant attitude and fit in well with our group. We enjoyed him immensely and really appreciated having him with us. We were sad to leave him. He will make an excellent guide. Das was the driver's assistant. Das was always visible when we exited a venue, pointing the way to our van. You couldn't miss his big smile and warm eyes. For some excursions, such as the sunset walk through Pushkar, Das accompanied the group providing and extra male presence and an extra set of eyes. I for one did not show enough fear of the oxen and Das was there to ensure I gave them ...... and their droppings ........ a wide birth. When we went to the train station in Jaipur, we were pleased to see Das on the train platform as we waited for our train to enter the station. He was there once again to provide an extra buffer with Youvee, as we attracted a lot of attention from other travellers. He truly went above and beyond the call of duty. Naresh, our driver, was amazing. From the moment we sat in his van we knew we were in the hands of a master. Coming from a small town of 12, 000 people, where people all drive in the same direction on the same side of the highway, we did find the traffic patterns of India beyond our understanding, but never once were we fearful. Naresh drove with skill and patience. When he delivered us to a sight, it was as close to the entrance as was physically possible. When we came out of a venue, our van was parked in a choice location. At one particular venue the hawkers were so intense that a long walk may have been disturbing, but because the van was right there, we all tumbled into the van and were able to laugh at our experience with the hawkers rather than be disturbed by it. We were sad to leave Naresh and Das in Jaipur, but it was a very pleasant surprise to find Naresh's smiling face waiting for us at the airport upon our return to Dahli. He is a special driver. Shamir showed us every major sight in Delhi that we could fit into 2 days. He left no monument unturned. Mr. Singh in Oudiapur is a fountain of knowledge and a born teacher. He is definitely a keeper. And Johnnie in Varannassi is a mover and a shaker. He bargains hard on behalf of his clients, shows great consideration for their needs, and is very open, gregarious and entertaining as a guide. I truly enjoyed Johnnie. And Joshi is a true professional. All of the guides and drivers know Joshi and aim to please him. It is obvious that he does a great job of overseeing the players, checking in with them frequently, and checking in with the clients to double check that everything is going smoothly. Everyone works very hard, round the clock, to insure your clients have a very positive experience while in their care. Again, if any of my friends or acquaintances are planning a trip to India, I will definitely recommend your services. Thank you so much for a wonderful adventure.
Coleen Ramsay and Kathy Grebenc
Barthurst, Canada
Dear Nazir: It was a good tour. No complaints though there are always too many churches/temples for me, but that is just me. A highlight for me was the boating experience on the Ganges, along with the spiritual overtones, cremation and other ceremony further down the river. Our tour guide guy (???) was exceptional, so knowledgeable, a great communicator, respectful and empathetic to our needs at all times. He made the tour for me. The driver and his helper were both very good too. Hotels were great, service and food exceptional. Loved your country, especially the people.
Joyce Crawford
North 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.