Contact us for pricing
Quick Menu
Overview
The magic of Explore India’s Bhutan & Darjeeling small group guided tour is that you will experience the magnificence of India and the beauty of the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan all on one incredible tour. The excitement of Delhi and Darjeeling coupled with the spiritual land of Bhutan is the perfect combination to stir your soul and ignite the adventurer in you.
Tour Highlights
- Visit ancient temples and holy monuments to gain spiritual insight into Bhutan’s Buddhist philosophy.
- Experience the narrow-gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway which was completed in 1881on the famous Mountain Rail Toy Train Ride.
- Explore the fields of distinctive black tea grown on the plantations that dot its surrounding slopes – taste the famous Darjeeling Tea.
- See the impressive Tiger’s Nest Monastery, set into a cliff 3,000 feet above Paro.
- Set your eyes upon the dzongs (great citadels) of Bhutan with their striking architecture.
- See an archery demonstration, Bhutanese dance and enjoy a farewell dinner in Paro.
- Enjoy an evening walk along the main street of Thimphu.
- Get your cameras ready for the majestic views in the picturesque village of Talo.
- See the famous Zoological Garden, Padmaja Naidu.
Itinerary
-
Day 1:
Arrive Paro-Transfero To Thimphu (54KM / 1 Hour Drive)
Welcome to Paro – Here are a few things you need to know:
- The Royal Bhutan airlines or Drukair has coded KB.
- You need to produce your e-ticket copies and visa clearance document during check-in.
- Fill in your immigration and declaration forms while onboard your flight to speed your visa formalities at the Paro airport.
- Do not lose the declaration form as you have to show it on the departure.
- If you have any tobacco products, please declare at the customs desk at the Paro airport.
- Upon arrival, you are met by an Explore India representative and transferred to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.
The drive to Thimphu is 1 hour. When you arrive, you will check-in at your hotel to relax.
Welcome to Bhutan
The Buddhist Kingdom of Bhutan lies along the lofty ridges of the eastern Himalayas, bordered by China (Tibet) to the north and northwest, and by the Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, West Bengal and Sikkim on the east, south and west respectively.If time permits, you will visit the following temples in Thimphu:
National Memorial Chorten: The building of this Chorten (a Chorten is the Tibetan word for stupa – both are words for a dome-shaped structure) was originally the idea of Bhutan’s third king, H.M. Jigme Dorji Wangchuck known as “the father of modern Bhutan”, who had wished to erect a monument to world peace and prosperity, but was unable to give shape to his idea in his lifetime due to pressures of state. After His Majesty’s untimely death in 1972, the Royal Family and Cabinet resolved to fulfil his wishes and erect a memorial that would perpetuate his memory and also serve as a monument to peace. The National Memorial Chorten was consecrated on July 28, 1974. The finely executed wall paintings and delicately fashioned statues within the monument provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy.
Buddha Dordenma: Buddha Dordenma is a magnificent statue sitting on top of a hill overlooking Thimphu. The Statue of Sakyamuni Buddha is one of the tallest in Asia (51.5 m). The site of Buddha Dordenma offers unobstructed views over the capital town.
Tashichhodzong: The “fortress of the glorious religion” was initially erected in 1641 and rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the 1960s. Tashichhodzong houses some ministries including His Majesty’s secretariat and the central monk body. It is open to visitors during the Thimphu Tsechu and while the monk body is resident in its winter quarters at Punakha Dzong.
Meals: Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Hotel Druk Thimphu BhutanHotel Druk Thimphu Bhutan
Wogzin Lam, Clock Tower Square, P.O.Box 1178, Thimphu, Bhutanhttp://drukhotels.com/thimphu/+975 2 322 966There is a land that is as old as the hills, yet as new as a silicon chip. Populated by verdant forests, lush green valleys, sparkling streams and people, who are as hard-working as they are hospitable. The land is so enchanting that many have compared it to Shangri-La, the lost paradise. That land is Bhutan, a country that has a great deal to share with the rest of the world. Tashi Group, based out of this land was founded by Late Dasho Ugen Dorji in 1959 with a vision to bring out the best of Bhutan. The group believes in bringing in changes without disturbing tradition; sharing Bhutan’s bounty far beyond its boundaries, and creating an environment where a glorious past can be moulded into a shining future. Hotel Druk – a luxury four-star hotel is a part of the Tashi Group and has been in operation since 1985. Over the years, it has been renovated to give it a chic and modern edge that is powerfully felt in uncluttered spaces. Each floor, differently inspired, explores a subtle palette drawn from water, air, earth, fire and sky. The founder and the Chairman of the Tashi Group, late Dasho Ugen Dorji had passed on the reign to his three sons under whose leadership the Group continues marching ahead in exploring new areas of investment. Batons have changed hands but the Group continues in its mission of maintaining the essence of Bhutan’s tradition while embracing the change to meet the new challenges.
-
Day 2:
Cultural Tour - Thimphu
Takin Zoo: A short distance up the road to the BBS tower viewpoint is a trail leading to a large fenced enclosure that was originally established as a zoo. Some years ago, the fourth king decided that a zoo was not in sync with Bhutan’s environmental and religious convictions, and so it was disbanded.
The animals were released into the wild, but the Takins, Bhutan’s national animal, were so tame that they wandered around the streets of Thimphu looking for food, and the only solution was to put them back into captivity. *Closed on Monday
Institute for Zorig Chusum: Commonly known as the Painting School, the Institute for Zorig Chusum offers a six-year course on the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. On a visit, one can see students learning the various skills taught at the school.Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre: Weaving is predominantly a woman’s domain but this private weaving center is different as it is owned and run by Mr. Kesang, this is rare in Bhutan. He weaves, creates new and unique patterns, comes up with unusual colour combinations, and is very involved. The center frequently produces ceremonial textiles for Bhutanese royals, including the traditional outfit for King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema’s highly-publicized October 2011 marriage. *Closing based on owner’s discretion, in such an event we will replace with another site
Folk Heritage: This is a great stop as it is a unique heritage shop that opened in 2001 and provides fascinating insights into the traditional Bhutanese way of life.Royal Textile Academy: Located in the heart of Thimphu town, it is comprised of a state-of-the-art museum to showcase national as well as regional and global textiles and artifacts. There is also a weaving school where students will be trained in the art of weaving, yarn dyeing, and contemporary skills related to fashion design and merchandising. The area has a well-equipped conservation centre. *Closed on Sunday and government holidays
Post Office: Located in the heart of the town, the Post Office is worth a visit. The first postage stamps were issued in 1962, the same time the first motorable road was opened. Ever since then Bhutan has been known for the unusual designs and materials of its stamps. At the post office, you can see the different stamps available in Bhutan. You can also make personalized stamps with your picture and send a postcard to your family and friends with your face on the stamp!In the evening you can take a walk along the main street of Thimphu town.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Hotel Druk Thimphu BhutanHotel Druk Thimphu Bhutan
Wogzin Lam, Clock Tower Square, P.O.Box 1178, Thimphu, Bhutanhttp://drukhotels.com/thimphu/+975 2 322 966There is a land that is as old as the hills, yet as new as a silicon chip. Populated by verdant forests, lush green valleys, sparkling streams and people, who are as hard-working as they are hospitable. The land is so enchanting that many have compared it to Shangri-La, the lost paradise. That land is Bhutan, a country that has a great deal to share with the rest of the world. Tashi Group, based out of this land was founded by Late Dasho Ugen Dorji in 1959 with a vision to bring out the best of Bhutan. The group believes in bringing in changes without disturbing tradition; sharing Bhutan’s bounty far beyond its boundaries, and creating an environment where a glorious past can be moulded into a shining future. Hotel Druk – a luxury four-star hotel is a part of the Tashi Group and has been in operation since 1985. Over the years, it has been renovated to give it a chic and modern edge that is powerfully felt in uncluttered spaces. Each floor, differently inspired, explores a subtle palette drawn from water, air, earth, fire and sky. The founder and the Chairman of the Tashi Group, late Dasho Ugen Dorji had passed on the reign to his three sons under whose leadership the Group continues marching ahead in exploring new areas of investment. Batons have changed hands but the Group continues in its mission of maintaining the essence of Bhutan’s tradition while embracing the change to meet the new challenges.
-
-
Day 3:
Transfer to Punakkha (85KM / 2.5 Hours)
After an early breakfast, you will drive to Punakha and on the way visit Dochu La Pass where, on a clear day, there is a panoramic view of the towering Himalayan peaks. The pass is marked by 108 stupas built by the Queen Mother.
Next, continue the drive to Punakha Valley. Punakha served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955 and is still the winter residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot) and the central monk body. Hike to the nearby Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the “Divine Madman”, an eccentric monk from the 16th century famous for many his many amusing, Rabelaisian folklore stories.
After lunch, you will get to visit Talo, PunakhaThe picturesque village of Talo, scattered along a ridge above the Punakha valley at an altitude of around 2,800m, is known amongst Punakha villages for its neat and clean appearance. Talo Sangnacholing is built on a small plateau at the top of the village, and from there one has a majestic view of the entire valley and surrounding villages, and the high hills beyond Wangduephodrang which mark the gateway to central Bhutan. The women here are particularly known for their beauty. Talo is about an hour’s drive from Punakha.
The remainder of the day is yours to spend as you wish.
‘One of the most striking physical features of Bhutan is its architecture. The characteristic style and colour of every building and house in the kingdom is a distinct source of aesthetic pleasure. The dzongs – themselves imposing 17th-century structures built on a grand scale without the help of any drawings and constructed entirely without nails – are outstanding examples of the best in Bhutanese architecture. Patterns of rich colours adorn walls, beams, pillars and doors in traditional splendour’.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: RKPO Green Resort PunakhaRKPO Green Resort Punakha
Sobsokha, Lobesa, Punakhahttp://www.greenresortrkpo.com/+975 02376233 / 02376231RKPO Green Resort sits in the heart of the verdant and lush Punakha Valley. Flanked by thick pine forests, it overlooks the Punakha valley and hundreds of paddy fields that stair-step down to the valley floor. It is surrounded by plentiful walking and trekking trails. From RKPO Resort, it is just a five-minute trek down to the mountain to the magnificent Chimmi lhakhang; the temple of the divine mad man( dharma yogi), which houses one of the amazing statues of the divine mad man) in the country.
It is entirely the handiwork of local Bhutanese artisans. The temple is also a centre of higher learning and meditation for monks
RKPO marries contemporary design with this Himalayan kingdom ancient and alluring ways. At the core of the RKPO philosophy lies the sense of simplicity and peace that permeates everything about Bhutan.
-
-
Day 4:
Explore Punakha Valley
Today, you will begin the day with a hike up through fields of rice along the banks of the Mo Chhu to the upper end of the valley to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, a stunning monument recently built by the Queens and consecrated in 1999.
After lunch you will visit Punakha Dzong, built-in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, this Dzong has played a prominent role in the civil and religious life of the kingdom. Damaged by fire, flood and earthquake over the centuries, it has now been fully restored in its original splendour.
In the evening you will have the opportunity to take a stroll through the town.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: RKPO Green Resort PunakhaRKPO Green Resort Punakha
Sobsokha, Lobesa, Punakhahttp://www.greenresortrkpo.com/+975 02376233 / 02376231RKPO Green Resort sits in the heart of the verdant and lush Punakha Valley. Flanked by thick pine forests, it overlooks the Punakha valley and hundreds of paddy fields that stair-step down to the valley floor. It is surrounded by plentiful walking and trekking trails. From RKPO Resort, it is just a five-minute trek down to the mountain to the magnificent Chimmi lhakhang; the temple of the divine mad man( dharma yogi), which houses one of the amazing statues of the divine mad man) in the country.
It is entirely the handiwork of local Bhutanese artisans. The temple is also a centre of higher learning and meditation for monks
RKPO marries contemporary design with this Himalayan kingdom ancient and alluring ways. At the core of the RKPO philosophy lies the sense of simplicity and peace that permeates everything about Bhutan.
-
-
Day 5:
Transfer to Paro & Explore (125 KM / 3.5 Hours)
After breakfast you will drive to Paro. On arrival in Paro you will visit Ta Dzong, formerly a watchtower and now the National Museum. The museum collection includes ancient Bhutanese art and artifacts, weapons, coins, stamps and a small natural history collection.
Then visit Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong) situated at a commanding height overlooking Paro valley. Built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646, this Dzong now houses Paro’s monk body and the offices of the civil administration and is symbolic as the religious and secular center of all affairs of the valley.
Later visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by the Tibetan king, Songtsen Gampo. The building of this temple marks the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan.‘Bhutan is the only extant Mahayana Buddhist kingdom in the world of today and the teachings of this school of Buddhism are a living faith among its people. The air of spirituality is pervasive even in urban centres, where the spinning of prayer wheels, the murmur of mantras and the glow of butter lamps are still commonplace features of everyday life. Bhutan’s religious sites and institutions are not museums, but the daily refuge of the people’.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Naksel Boutique Hotel & SpaNaksel Boutique Hotel & Spa
Paro, Upper Ngoba Village, Paro, Bhutanhttps://www.naksel.com/+975 8 272 992Located thirty minutes from Paro International Airport, Naksel Boutique Hotel & Spa is a luxury retreat where the comforts of man and the presence of nature combine for a peaceful escape in the hills of Bhutan.
Nestled on the edge of the national forest and the quiet Ngoba Village, Naksel derives its name from the Dzongkha translation of ‘Forest,’ which is only fitting for this Himalayan sanctuary.
The main lodge and surrounding cottages of Naksel rest on more than six acres for forest land, at 2700 meters above sea level.
-
-
Day 6:
Tiger's Nest Hike (4 to 5 Hours Hike)
In the morning, take an excursion to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest. It is believed that Guru Rinpoche, founding father of the Bhutanese form of Mahayana Buddhism, arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery. The main structure was severely damaged by fire in 1998, but after many years of painstaking restoration work, the complex has now been restored to its former glory.
This evening you will go to visit a farmhouse to experience a typical Bhutanese lifestyle.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Naksel Boutique Hotel & SpaNaksel Boutique Hotel & Spa
Paro, Upper Ngoba Village, Paro, Bhutanhttps://www.naksel.com/+975 8 272 992Located thirty minutes from Paro International Airport, Naksel Boutique Hotel & Spa is a luxury retreat where the comforts of man and the presence of nature combine for a peaceful escape in the hills of Bhutan.
Nestled on the edge of the national forest and the quiet Ngoba Village, Naksel derives its name from the Dzongkha translation of ‘Forest,’ which is only fitting for this Himalayan sanctuary.
The main lodge and surrounding cottages of Naksel rest on more than six acres for forest land, at 2700 meters above sea level.
-
-
Day 7:
Depart Paro - Bagdogra - Darjeeling (90KM Flight & Drive)
After breakfast at the hotel, drive to the airport for your flight to Bag Dogra.
You will be welcomed by an Explore India representative in Bag Dogra and transferred to your hotel in Darjeeling. Darjeeling is 95 kilometers away and the drive takes approximately 3 hours.Welcome to Darjeeling, a town in India’s West Bengal state situated in the foothills of the Himalayas. It was a popular retreat from the heat of the plains in the summer amongst the British Raj elite. Darjeeling continues to attract visitors every year due to its beautiful views and its quirky charm. The town rests on a ridge 2200 metres above sea level on the eastern border of Nepal and the views of the snow-capped Himalayas and Mt. Kanchenjunga are stunning from this point. First famous for its tea, Darjeeling has beautiful tea gardens to be enjoyed which are dotted throughout the town.
The evening is free for you to spend as you wish. Overnight at Mayfair Resort.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner -
Day 8:
Darjeeling to Pemayangtse & Local Sightseeing
After breakfast at the hotel, you will visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute which was founded in Darjeeling by Pandit Nehru who said that “The institute trains young men not only to climb Himalayan peaks but also create in them an urge to climb peaks of human Endeavour”. HMI has the oldest mountaineering Museum of the country established in 1957.
Later, proceed to the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Center established in 1959. Following the dramatic escape of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, thousands of Tibetans leaving hearth and home, fled into the neighbouring countries to live as free human beings. The production of Tibetan handicrafts is the centre’s main activity. In the evening you can enjoy a short walk across to the local market.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: MAYFAIR DarjeelingMAYFAIR Darjeeling
https://www.mayfairhotels.com/mayfair-darjeeling/MAYFAIR Darjeeling is a heritage property that is one of the best hotels in Darjeeling. It exudes old-world charm and quiet elegance. Wake up to birdsong and beautiful views as you soak in the blissful ambiance. The green foliage and the crisp mountain air will refresh your senses. Striking the perfect balance between the old and the modern, MAYFAIR Darjeeling ranks as one of the best luxury hill resorts in India. It indulges you with its beauty and warm genuine hospitality whether you are travelling on a honeymoon, on a work trip or a family getaway. The luxury accommodation provided at the resort includes spacious Family Rooms and lavish Suites. Dining options include a grand buffet restaurant serving some of the best food in town, an English bar with lovely sunset views and a charming multi-cuisine restaurant. Facilities at this luxury hotel in Darjeeling include an excellent Spa, a well-equipped gym, a state-of-the-art banquet hall, a children’s play area and a nice library.
-
-
Day 9:
Darjeeling Tiger Hill & Tea Plantation
An early morning start as we venture out to Tiger Hill to watch the spectacular sunrise and its amazing effects on the third highest peak in the world, Mt. Kanchendzonga. Visit Ghoom Monastery and Batashia Loop War Memorial before returning to the hotel.
Breakfast at the hotel followed by a half-day of local sightseeing.
We will visit the Padmaja Naidu Zoological Garden established on August 14, 1958. The centre specialized in breeding animals adapted to alpine conditions and now contains endangered animals like snow leopards, red pandas, and Siberian tigers as well as a variety of endangered birds.Later, transfer to Darjeeling station to enjoy your Toy Train Joy Ride. This unique Mountain Railway’ project was first started in 1878 by the initiative of Sir. Ashley Eden and is now a World Heritage.
Next, proceed to visit the Tukver Tea Estate – also popularly known as Puttabong Tea Estate. It has quite a reputation for producing one of the finest brands of Darjeeling Tea. It is the first tea estate in the history of Darjeeling Tea Plantation and was planted by the pioneering British tea planter Dr. Campbell in 1852. This garden is one of the biggest tea estates in Darjeeling comprised of 5 divisions located at a stretch of approximately 20km from Darjeeling city to the Sikkim State border.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: MAYFAIR DarjeelingMAYFAIR Darjeeling
https://www.mayfairhotels.com/mayfair-darjeeling/MAYFAIR Darjeeling is a heritage property that is one of the best hotels in Darjeeling. It exudes old-world charm and quiet elegance. Wake up to birdsong and beautiful views as you soak in the blissful ambiance. The green foliage and the crisp mountain air will refresh your senses. Striking the perfect balance between the old and the modern, MAYFAIR Darjeeling ranks as one of the best luxury hill resorts in India. It indulges you with its beauty and warm genuine hospitality whether you are travelling on a honeymoon, on a work trip or a family getaway. The luxury accommodation provided at the resort includes spacious Family Rooms and lavish Suites. Dining options include a grand buffet restaurant serving some of the best food in town, an English bar with lovely sunset views and a charming multi-cuisine restaurant. Facilities at this luxury hotel in Darjeeling include an excellent Spa, a well-equipped gym, a state-of-the-art banquet hall, a children’s play area and a nice library.
-
-
Day 10:
Darjeeling - Bagdogra - Delhi (90KM Drive & Flight)
After breakfast drive to Bagdogra airport to board the flight for Delhi.
What’s included
- International roundtrip airfare
- Airfare Delhi – Paro / Paro – Bagdogra / Bagdogra – Delhi
- Accommodation in one double room at 4-star hotels
- Meals as noted in the itinerary include lunches in local restaurants.
- Transportation via a luxury Toyota Van
- English-speaking guide throughout your tour
- All entrance and monument fees
- Toy Train experience
- Taxes, Gov. Royalty & Visa
- Unlimited bottled water during sightseeing tours and long drives
What’s excluded
- Travel insurance
- All beverages incl. of water consumed at hotels/restaurants
- Gratuities/Tips to Guide and driver, personal expenses, laundry, telephone bills, extra hotel facilities. International airfare
*Please note that some of the sights/itineraries may change due to season, weather, national holidays, and special events. We maintain the right to alter the itinerary since tours are made in advance and unforeseen circumstances that mandate change may arise. Itinerary changes are made to improve your overall travel experience in Bhutan
Select a gateway:
Prices include Roundtrip Airfare from - to India.
You May Also Like
Recent Reviews
Hi Nazir, We really enjoyed our trip to India that you arranged. The site selections were fantastic (as our travel MD commented), the hotels were comfortable, the drivers were highly skilled, and our tour guide Harry was brilliant and so well informed. He adapted to our interests with ad hoc additions that added much to our experience. Rajeev kept in touch with us as well along the way. So thanks again for this memorable experience.
Arnie Funk and Sharie Edwards
Vancouver, Canada
Hi Nazir, Just to let you know Doris and I are home safe and sound, although both suffering from Jet Lag......What a trip - it was action-packed, full of adventure and beautiful. What a wonderous country and what fabulous people that are India. We had the great good fortune to meet Rajiv in New Delhi and to travel with Sandeep Singh for 16 days - never a dull moment and the first time we have been almost too busy to shop. We saw the sunrise from Tiger Hill and I have a video of Arrowhead, a beautiful female Bengal Tiger in Ranthambore. Sandeep was excellent, knowledgeable and kept everyone informed and on track. He had many issues to deal with that were not the norm, the devaluation of the 500 and 1000 rupee, the switch from Kashmir to Darjeeling and stayed on top of it all. Darjeeling was one of the highlights for both of us - what a trip and the people are fantastic - enjoyed the whole experience. The Hotels were all 5 star, food excellent for most (I have allergies, so stuck to mostly bland items), transportation was all great. The driver Mr. Singh and helper whom we called Baby Deep drove us from Delhi to Jaipur and back were really great - thanks to them also. The group that we traveled with were great - made many new friends and now share a common bond. Thank you to yourself, Mandira, Rajiv and especially Sandeep (for the 16 days he was our friend, guide and father). He truly loves his country, his people and sharing all his knowledge with his groups. A wonderful experience - Thank You
Karen Reid and Doris O’Brien
Calgary, Canada
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
Dorothy and I just wanted to let you know what a great time we had with you and our fellow travellers during our recent adventure in India.It was indeed a 'TRIP OF A LIFETIME' and excellent value -- one we will always cherish. Your attention to detail was incredible, the hotels were fantastic, the food was superb and your assistants couldn't do enough for us Please thank them again on our behalf.
Peter & Dorothy
North Vancouver, Canada
Namaste, and thanks for the email Nazir. My husband and I are still under the powerful influence of India – having thoroughly enjoyed the 2 weeks we had there. It’s really difficult to synthesize our experience but I will try to give some feedback. Both of us felt that we learned so much and really broadened our understanding of cultural and political issues in addition to seeing, tasting, smelling, and tasting some of India’s diversity. I really appreciated the diverse environments: urban, heritage sites, forest reserve, streets/river exposure in Varanasi, the roadside rural life viewed as we traveled between major sites. I’m especially glad that we added on the Varanasi trip which broadened our experience considerably. We were ever so fortunate in the timing (just after the monsoon season) and got to see a relatively ‘green’ India. Several local guides commented that we were a ‘lucky’ group in terms of being in the right places at the right times for certain things – such as seeing tigers, getting to the Taj Mahal just prior to its ‘mudding’. The tour itinerary was well planned and varied – given that any group of 22 people will have different preferences. We found our tour guide to be excellent: knowledgeable, flexible, and always anticipating when/where changes might be needed either for our comfort or safety. Many thanks for that. And he was ever so patient in spite of challenging situations. I’m a cautious traveller (in contrast to my husband) but even I felt very safe. Our guide was extremely good at keeping us together while also allowing plenty of photo ops, cooling down periods, and preparing us for the next point of interest. The tour guide was very good with history and cultural information that made the bus travel time both informative and seem shorter. All contacts were very friendly, courteous, and helpful. One hardly mentioned an issue and it was addressed; To summarize, the trip was amazing! We are so very glad we went and still bask in India’s glow. Fond memories, great photos, and a great appreciation for the country and its peoples! Please convey our thanks to all who made the trip possible. Regards,
Cynthia Toman (on behalf of Earl as well)
Toronto, Canada
I just wanted to send you a note of thanks for doing such a great professional job in arranging and co-ordinating Margaret Davidson’s recent trip to India. As a seasoned traveller and former hotel executive, I am fully aware of all the logistics and details that are essential in making ones travels as rewarding as possible. You have excelled in so many ways, from the initial contact with you, to her safe return home a couple of weeks ago. Her trip was amazing in so many memorable ways thanks in large part to the seamless travel plans that you put into place. Please pass this note on to any that are considering your travel services, as we highly recommend you for your impeccable follow-up and diligence in all that you have done for us. Our heartfelt thanks to you again for a job well done!
Bos Malcolm and Margaret Davidson
Gabriola Island, Canada
Keith and I also wanted to thank you and your whole team for the fantastic tour you organized for us in India, truly an incredible journey of the senses. What a unique and great country! As we mentioned to you before, it was one the best and most memorable trips we have ever experienced and we have travelled a lot. Your attention to every little detail and your extreme caring for us really made the difference. Everyday was a new highlight with its own thrilling surprises and enjoyment. Looking forward to a potential new adventure with you next year.
Maggy and Keith
Toronto, Canada
We have arrived home safely. Your team in Delhi is to be commended. We were taken care of so well. Every detail!. Special thanks to Yajur. He saved me when I was so sick I could not eat. Rouf was also exceptional as was Rajeev ( sorry about the spelling) India is an exciting country and we are so Pleased that Explore India has such a fantastic tour with exceptional representatives.
Brian & Carol
Ottawa, Canada
Dear Mandira and Nazir, We had a really wonderful time. Our guide was very professional, informative and warm which really makes a huge difference when going with a group..and we could not have been luckier group wise- everyone was friendly and engaged. The hotels were all extremely good. We really enjoyed the range of food, the optional cookery session was a real insight into family life- a most delightful family. We really enjoyed the performance in Kerala. It was such a pity the performers did not have a larger audience Thank you all at Explore India for such a professional and friendly service. We will most definitely recommend your company to anyone thinking of going to India. Kind regards Catriona
Catriona Stares
London UK, United Kingdom
We all had a splendid time and thank you for the wonderful, fabulous guide. Meehi was patient, kind, fun and very knowledgeable. Also our wonderful driver deserves mention for getting us always to our destinations alive. Traffic very scary to us!! I personally loved every minute of my trip. Loved India!
Louise Stewart
Chilliwack, 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.