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Overview
Exploring: Delhi – Darjeeling – Kolkata – Thimphu – Paro (Bhutan)- Kathamandu (Nepal)
It is with a great pleasure that we invite you to join us on this once in a lifetime experience. This incredible Himalayan cultural journey will take us to the plains of Darjeeling, in the Himalayan foothills. This was once a summer resort for the British Raj elite and is famous for the narrow-gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway built in 1881. It’s also famed for the distinctive black tea grown on plantations that dot its surrounding slopes. Boasting a backdrop of Mt. Kanchenjunga, among the world’s highest peaks, we will then travel onwards to Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), the capital of India’s West Bengal state. Founded as an East India Company trading post, this was India’s capital under the British Raj from 1773-1911. Today it’s known for its grand colonial architecture, art galleries and cultural festivals. It is also home to Mother Teresa House, headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity, founded by Mother Teresa. Finally we travel onwards to the incredible mountain kingdom of Nepal and Bhutan, a land of dramatic topography ranging from subtropical plains to steep mountains and valleys. We will experience fascinating cultures, traditions and customs on this expedition, and end with the Dragon Kingdom of Bhutan, also known as the last Shangri-La on earth. Highlights include a visit to Thimphu, the infamous Tiger’s Nest Monastery, a flight around Mt. Everest, the highest mountain peak in the world and the splendour of the alpine countryside of Punakha where we will witness the impressive Dzongs.
Tour Highlights
- Experience the narrow gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway which was completed in 1881
- Explore the fields of distinctive black tea grown on the plantations that dot its surrounding slopes
- Visit ancient temples and holy monuments to gain spiritual insight into Bhutan’s ingrained Buddhist philosophy
- See the impressive Tiger’s Nest Monastery, set into a cliff 3,000 feet above Paro
- Wonder at the dzongs (great citadels) of Bhutan with their striking architecture
- Experience a tea ceremony with the nuns in a Thimphu monastery
- See an archery demonstration, and Bhutanese dance and enjoy a farewell dinner in Paro
- Receive an interactive lesson in Nepalese cuisine with a local family
- Experience the top of the world in total comfort while enjoying panoramic views of Mt. Everest
- Visit ancient temples and holy monuments to gain spiritual insight into Nepal’s ingrained Buddhist philosophy
- Wander the unique streets of Thamel enjoying the sights and sounds of this bustling area.
Itinerary
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Day 1:
Depart Canada
Depart Canada for India. Your international flight includes meals, drinks and in-flight entertainment.
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Day 2:
Arrival in India (New Delhi)
Welcome to Delhi, a city that bridges two different worlds. Old Delhi, once the capital of Islamic India, is a labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with crumbling havelis and formidable mosques. In contrast, the imperial city of New Delhi created by the British Raj is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings. On arrival at Delhi airport you’ll be met upon arrival and transferred to your hotel.
Accommodation: Vivanta New Delhi, DwarkaVivanta New Delhi, Dwarka
Metro Station Rd, Sector 21, Dwarka, New Delhi, Delhi 110075, Indiahttps://www.vivantahotels.com/en-in/vivanta-new-delhi-dwarka/+91 11 6600 3000Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka – Designed to delight high fliers from all angles. Laidback but efficient. Elegant and spacious. Directly connected to the heart of the city with easy access to the Sector 21 Metro station. As one of the most opulent 5-star business hotels in NewDelhi, it aims to change the face of business, in a space where you can work and play seamlessly. Spanning 7 acres, Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka is one of the best hotels near Delhi airport. It wraps you in luxury the minute you step in. The stylish space is home to a chic lobby, never-ending rooms and multiple outlets for the finest culinary experiences. You are never far from the city. A 20-minute drive eastward leads you to the heart and soul of the city – Lutyens’ New Delhi! And the domestic and international airports are an easy 15-minute drive westward. Everything you need, and then some, around every corner. Where business and luxury unite, in an experience like no other!
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Day 3:
Delhi | Bagdogra | Darjeeling
Morning transfer from hotel to airport to board the flight for Bagdogra (G8-327 @ 1050/1255 hrs) Welcome on arrival at Bagdogra Airport and drive to Darjeeling (95 Kms/ 3hrs). Once the summer capital of India, Darjeeling is a land of infinite variety and charm. It will cater you a mix-experience of lively nature & charming Himalayan people. It is the place of Dorje, the mystic thunderbolt of the Lama-Religion. Surrounded by Tea gardens; this little town faces some of the highest peaks of the Himalayas. Enjoy your Welcome dinner along with cultural program at hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner -
Day 4:
Darjeeling Sightseeing | Toy Train Ride
Early morning start for Tiger Hill to watch the spectacular sunrise and it’s amazing effects on the Mt. Kanchendzonga (Worlds 3rd highest peak), visit Ghoom Monastery and Batashia Loop War Memorial while returning to the hotel.Return to hotel for breakfast. After breakfast transfer to Darjeeling station to enjoy your Toy Train Joy Ride (subject to availability) – this unique Mountain Railway’ project was first started in 1878 by the initiative of Sir. Ashley Eden and is now a World Heritage. Padmaja N. Zoological Garden (Closed on Thursday) established on August 14, 1958. It specializes in breeding animals adapted to alpine conditions.Later proceed to visit the Tukver Tea Estate – also popularly known as Puttabong Tea estate has quite a reputation for itself for producing one of the finest brands of Darjeeling Tea. It is the First Tea Estate in the history of Darjeeling Tea Plantation (Planted by the pioneering British Tea Planter Dr. Campbell in 1852). This garden is one of the biggest tea estates in Darjeeling comprising of 5 divisions located at a stretch of approximately 20 Km from Darjeeling city to Sikkim State border.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 5:
Darjeeling Sightseeing | Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
After breakfast visit Himalayan Mountaineering Institute was founded in Darjeeling on 4th November by Pandit Nehru who said that “The institute trains young men not only to climb Himalayan peaks, but also create in them an urge to climb peaks of human Endeavour”. HMI has the oldest mountaineering Museum of the country established in 1957.Later proceed Tibetan Refugee Self-help Center established on 1st October, 1959, following the dramatic escape of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, thousands of Tibetans leaving hearth and home, fled into the neighbouring countries to live as free human beings. The production of Tibetan handicraft is the centres’ main activity. Evening enjoy a short walk across the Mall and Local Market. Evening enjoy a short walk across the Mall and Local Market
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 6:
Darjeeling | Bagdogra | Kolkata
After breakfast drive to Bagdogra airport to board the flight for Kolkata (6E-958 @ 1220 / 1320 hrs) Welcome on arrival in Kolkata and transfer to hotel. Kolkata is the city of Joy, contrast and culture. Once the capital of British India – now the capital of West Bengal. A visit to Kolkata will bring visitors in touch with a combination of a rich 400 years old heritage, vibrant modern life and different cultures.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: The Oberoi GrandThe Oberoi Grand
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Day 7:
Kolkata Sightseeing | Dinner Cruise | Cultural Program
Enjoy your breakfast and start exploring the city of Joy with an introduction about the glory of Bengal, drive through the famous Howrah Bridge and experience a short heritage walk tour around the Dalhousie Square. Explore the College Street Book Market by a hand pulled Rickshaw and enjoy a cup of Hot Coffee at the Famous “Indian Coffee House” which is running since 1942.Later visit the St. Paul’s Cathedral, the first ‘Episcopal Cathedral Church’ in an oriental country, and the Victoria Memorial also referred to as the Taj of the Raj. This splendid white marble structure was built in memory of Queen Victoria between 1906 and 1921 and was formally inaugurated by the Prince of Wales, who later became King Edward VIII of England. Visit the Mother House – the headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity. As the sun sets, painting an evening sky with a hundred shades of red and orange. You will be welcome on board to celebrate the evening with cocktail reception and cultural program.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: The Oberoi GrandThe Oberoi Grand
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Day 8:
Kolkata | Paro Bhutan | Thimphu
After breakfast, transfer from hotel to the airport to connect flight for Paro Bhutan, (KB 501 @ 0910 / 1050 hrs) A Buddhist kingdom on the Himalayas’ eastern edge. Bhutan is a land of monasteries, fortresses (or dzongs) and dramatic topography ranging from subtropical plains to steep mountains and valleys. Arrive in Paro & receive a Tashi. Khaddar (Traditional welcome) and drive to Thimphu (1 ½ hours). In Thimphu, proceed to Kuensel Phodrang, considered to be one of the largest statues of Buddha at 51.5 m (168 ft) tall . The body is filled with 125,000 smaller statues of Buddha.Next you will visit the National Memorial Chorten built in 1974 to honor the memory of King Jigma Dorji Wangchuck and is a prominent landmark in the city with its golden spires and bells. Following this you will explore a local marketplace. In the evening Traditional Mask Dance & Cultural show during Welcome Dinner
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Le Méridien ThimphuLe Méridien Thimphu
Chorten Lam, Thimphu 11001, Bhutanhttp://www.lemeridienthimphu.com/+975 2 337 788Located in the heart of the capital city, Thimphu, the Le Méridien Thimphu invites the discerning guest to engage and discover the legendary ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’, Bhutan. Our 78 spaciously appointed guest rooms & suites are culturally inspired, yet decidedly chic and contemporary.
With cosmopolitan surroundings amidst the bustling commercial streets of the city-centre, and a convenient location to many of the city’s myriad attractions, the Le Méridien Thimphu is a compelling choice for hosting business meetings, and the perfect jumpstart to that long awaited leisurely holiday.
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Day 9:
Explore Thimphu Valley | Serving Tea to Nuns
Early in the morning, drive to Tango Gompa, the highest center of Buddhist learning in the country. After a two hour hike you will have lunch. Next you will visit Tashichho Dzong, a Buddhist monastery and fortress constructed in 1641, is impressively large and surrounded by beautiful gardens. Later in the evening we visit Zilukha Nunnery which is also called Drubthob Goemba , the largest nunnery in Bhutan. Young girls enter the nunnery to escape poverty and gain an education. You will see many nuns chanting prayers and turning prayer wheels. You will be able to serve tea to the nuns so you can gain both good merit and good. At dinner this evening, High School students in traditional dress will join you and bring costumes for you to try. Opportunity to dress as a Bhutanese! It will be a great photo opportunity!
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Le Méridien ThimphuLe Méridien Thimphu
Chorten Lam, Thimphu 11001, Bhutanhttp://www.lemeridienthimphu.com/+975 2 337 788Located in the heart of the capital city, Thimphu, the Le Méridien Thimphu invites the discerning guest to engage and discover the legendary ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’, Bhutan. Our 78 spaciously appointed guest rooms & suites are culturally inspired, yet decidedly chic and contemporary.
With cosmopolitan surroundings amidst the bustling commercial streets of the city-centre, and a convenient location to many of the city’s myriad attractions, the Le Méridien Thimphu is a compelling choice for hosting business meetings, and the perfect jumpstart to that long awaited leisurely holiday.
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Day 10:
From Paro | Bhutanese Historic Architecture, Oldest Temples
After breakfast drive to Paro and check-in at hotel. You will next visit the National Museum which contains over 3,000 works of art and houses some of the finest specimens of Bhutanese art. Then you will go on a short walk downhill to visit Rinpun Dzong (Paro Dzong), a fine example of Bhutanese historic architecture. Then you will visit Drukgyel Dzong considered the most beautiful and famous archaeological sites in Bhutan. In the evening, visit the auspicious Kichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most beautiful temples in Bhutan.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Le Méridien Paro RiverfrontLe Méridien Paro Riverfront
Paro-Thimphu Highway, Shaba, Paro 12001, Bhutanhttp://www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien/property/overview/index.html+975 8 270 300 -
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Day 11:
Tiger’s Nest Hike | Archery Demo
This morning you will drive to Taktshang Monastery, en-route visiting Simtokha Dzong. You will hike up to visit one of Bhutan’s most sacred religious sites, the Taktshang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest). This is one of the most breathtaking temples in the world. The main temple was built in 1692 and is one of the holiest for the Bhutanese. This hike offers spectacular views of this sacred monastery perched on a cliff face 900m (2952 ft) above the valley floor.Later in the afternoon enjoy an Archery demonstration, Archery, the national sport of Bhutan, and a common feature of everyday life. It is played differently from the international game and is seen as a celebration of the country’s way of life. In the evening enjoy a cultural program & farewell dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Le Méridien Paro RiverfrontLe Méridien Paro Riverfront
Paro-Thimphu Highway, Shaba, Paro 12001, Bhutanhttp://www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien/property/overview/index.html+975 8 270 300 -
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Day 12:
Paro | Kathmandu Nepal
After breakfast, transfer to the International airport for your flight to Kathmandu. (KB 400 @ 1220 / 1305 hrs) Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital. On arrival at the airport, we will be met and driven to your hotel. Afternoon you will enjoy a drive to a local market followed by a rickshaw ride to Kathmandu’s Durbar Square. Durbar Square is a generic term used to describe places opposite old royal palaces in Nepal. There are 3 Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley and all three are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a the hub of Nepal’s traditional culture, arts and history Later you will attend a Nepalese cooking class at the home of local family.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Crowne Plaza Kathmandu-SoalteeCrowne Plaza Kathmandu-Soaltee
https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/us/en/kathmandu/ktmnp/hoteldetail977-1-4273999Experience the natural beauty of Nepal when you stay at Crowne Plaza Kathmandu – Soaltee, the preferred hotel for guests including the Heads of States visiting Kathmandu. Conveniently located in the peaceful Tahachal area, just 8 km from the Tribhuvan International Airport and 4 km from the city centre, the hotel is spread across 12 acres of landscaped grounds that echo the mountainous beauty of the valley. You can stroll the grounds in peace and then drop in at the Rodi Bar for a refreshing drink. The Crowne Plaza Sleep Advantage Program ensures a restful night’s sleep for the business and leisure travelers in the 282 spacious rooms and suites. While staying at this 5-star hotel in Kathmandu, you enjoy a range of prime amenities. Gaze up at the mountains while you float in the pool or unwind with one of our rejuvenating therapies at the Tranquility Spa. Enjoy Chinese flavours at Bao Xuan, relish the best of North Indian cuisine at our Indian restaurant Kakori and indulge in the true taste of Italy at Terrace Alfresco. You can host stylish banquets, conventions and conferences in one of the 10 elegant meeting rooms with space for 20 – 1200 people. To ensure success, our extremely talented Crowne Plaza Meetings Director will assist you from start to finish. When you’re done with business, visit the popular Thamel or ask the Concierge to arrange hiking trips into the mountains and villages. When you return from your inspiring adventure sink into your room’s inviting warmth.
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Day 13:
Kathmandu | Mt. Everest Flight
This morning (weather permitting) you will enjoy a luxury one hour flight around Mt. Everest, the highest elevation on our globe at 29,029 ft. The breathtaking panoramic views throughout the trip offer unparalleled photo opportunities. Next you will visit Bhaktapur, “the City of Devotees, and located 8 miles east of Kathmandu. Bhaktapur has the best preserved palace courtyards and old city centre in Nepal and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next you will drive to visit the beautiful and historic temple, Chagu Narayan Temple – a UNESCO world heritage site and the oldest temple in Nepal.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Crowne Plaza Kathmandu-SoalteeCrowne Plaza Kathmandu-Soaltee
https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/us/en/kathmandu/ktmnp/hoteldetail977-1-4273999Experience the natural beauty of Nepal when you stay at Crowne Plaza Kathmandu – Soaltee, the preferred hotel for guests including the Heads of States visiting Kathmandu. Conveniently located in the peaceful Tahachal area, just 8 km from the Tribhuvan International Airport and 4 km from the city centre, the hotel is spread across 12 acres of landscaped grounds that echo the mountainous beauty of the valley. You can stroll the grounds in peace and then drop in at the Rodi Bar for a refreshing drink. The Crowne Plaza Sleep Advantage Program ensures a restful night’s sleep for the business and leisure travelers in the 282 spacious rooms and suites. While staying at this 5-star hotel in Kathmandu, you enjoy a range of prime amenities. Gaze up at the mountains while you float in the pool or unwind with one of our rejuvenating therapies at the Tranquility Spa. Enjoy Chinese flavours at Bao Xuan, relish the best of North Indian cuisine at our Indian restaurant Kakori and indulge in the true taste of Italy at Terrace Alfresco. You can host stylish banquets, conventions and conferences in one of the 10 elegant meeting rooms with space for 20 – 1200 people. To ensure success, our extremely talented Crowne Plaza Meetings Director will assist you from start to finish. When you’re done with business, visit the popular Thamel or ask the Concierge to arrange hiking trips into the mountains and villages. When you return from your inspiring adventure sink into your room’s inviting warmth.
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Day 14:
Kathmandu
In the morning enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu: visit Pashupatinath, Swoyambhunath Temple which is one of the most significant Hindu temples of the Shiva in the world, located on the banks of the river in the eastern Kathmandu, visit Swoyambhunath Stupa, the Budhhhanath, Later sightseeing of Patan, officially Lalitpur Sub-Metropolitan city, one of the major cities of Nepal located in the South central part of Kathmandu Valley. Farewell dinner & Cultural show.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Crowne Plaza Kathmandu-SoalteeCrowne Plaza Kathmandu-Soaltee
https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/us/en/kathmandu/ktmnp/hoteldetail977-1-4273999Experience the natural beauty of Nepal when you stay at Crowne Plaza Kathmandu – Soaltee, the preferred hotel for guests including the Heads of States visiting Kathmandu. Conveniently located in the peaceful Tahachal area, just 8 km from the Tribhuvan International Airport and 4 km from the city centre, the hotel is spread across 12 acres of landscaped grounds that echo the mountainous beauty of the valley. You can stroll the grounds in peace and then drop in at the Rodi Bar for a refreshing drink. The Crowne Plaza Sleep Advantage Program ensures a restful night’s sleep for the business and leisure travelers in the 282 spacious rooms and suites. While staying at this 5-star hotel in Kathmandu, you enjoy a range of prime amenities. Gaze up at the mountains while you float in the pool or unwind with one of our rejuvenating therapies at the Tranquility Spa. Enjoy Chinese flavours at Bao Xuan, relish the best of North Indian cuisine at our Indian restaurant Kakori and indulge in the true taste of Italy at Terrace Alfresco. You can host stylish banquets, conventions and conferences in one of the 10 elegant meeting rooms with space for 20 – 1200 people. To ensure success, our extremely talented Crowne Plaza Meetings Director will assist you from start to finish. When you’re done with business, visit the popular Thamel or ask the Concierge to arrange hiking trips into the mountains and villages. When you return from your inspiring adventure sink into your room’s inviting warmth.
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Day 15:
Kathmandu | Delhi
After breakfast transfer from hotel to airport to connect to the flight for Delhi. (6E 044 @ 1445 / 1605 hrs) Upon arrival meet our representative and transfer to the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Vivanta New Delhi, DwarkaVivanta New Delhi, Dwarka
Metro Station Rd, Sector 21, Dwarka, New Delhi, Delhi 110075, Indiahttps://www.vivantahotels.com/en-in/vivanta-new-delhi-dwarka/+91 11 6600 3000Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka – Designed to delight high fliers from all angles. Laidback but efficient. Elegant and spacious. Directly connected to the heart of the city with easy access to the Sector 21 Metro station. As one of the most opulent 5-star business hotels in NewDelhi, it aims to change the face of business, in a space where you can work and play seamlessly. Spanning 7 acres, Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka is one of the best hotels near Delhi airport. It wraps you in luxury the minute you step in. The stylish space is home to a chic lobby, never-ending rooms and multiple outlets for the finest culinary experiences. You are never far from the city. A 20-minute drive eastward leads you to the heart and soul of the city – Lutyens’ New Delhi! And the domestic and international airports are an easy 15-minute drive westward. Everything you need, and then some, around every corner. Where business and luxury unite, in an experience like no other!
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Day 16:
Delhi | Home
We are transferred from hotel to airport to connect to the flight for the onward journey.
What’s included
- International roundtrip airfare and all local flights including flights to Nepal & Bhutan
- Accommodation based on double occupancy
- Escorted Roundtrip Airport Transfers
- All transfers and sightseeing by air condition coach / Mini cars
- Entrance fees for all monuments as per itinerary
- All meals breakfasts, lunches & dinners as mentioned in the program
- Traditional Mask Dance & Cultural Show during Welcome Dinner in Thimphu
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Traditional Bhutanese Dress for the event in Thimphu
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Archery Demo in Paro the national sport of Bhutan
- Farewell dinner in Paro
- Bottled water and soft drinks during long drives and sightseeing
- Governmental royalty and taxes in Bhutan
- All currently applicable taxes in India & Nepal
- Bicycle Rickshaw Ride in Kathmandu
- Activities & exclusive events during the tour as mentioned in the program
What’s excluded
- Personal expenses, laundry, bar bills, alcoholic beverages, phone bills, etc.
- Any other sightseeing other than mentioned in the program
- Services other than in our inclusion
- Any applicable taxes
Select a gateway:
Prices include Roundtrip Airfare from - to India.
Recent Reviews
We have just returned home from the 10 days Explore India tour Magical India with unforgettable experiences and truly favorable memories. Any initial reservations or uncertainties related to travelling in such a mysterious land were quickly relieved after we received a surprise but welcoming and reassuring phone call while registering on arrival at our airport hotel in Delhi at 11:55 pm from Explore India's Head of Operations. Despite using our own travel plans to and from the tour, Explore India representatives continually provided full support to our individual travel plans right through to our arrival at the Delhi airport for our departure flight. Our tour guide was extremely effective in preparing our group with extensive historical and current information on all the amazing sites we visited. Despite travelling in a country well known for its chaos and unpredictabilities, the tour was extremely well organized and effectively delivered. Accommodations were consistently first class. Meals were of high quality, with an ample variety for all tastes. Transportation was first class with a fully modern bus operated by a skilled driver. All tours to the many amazing world-class venues were conducted with professional precision. Kudos to Nazir, Rajeev and Arvind of Explore India for providing us with an exceptionally favorable, and memorable travel experience.
Al and Karen Perras
Victoria, Canada
An amazing experience......it exceeded my expectations. I am a seasoned world traveler and was so very impressed with this tour. Our guide Shah was incredibly informative and I loved listening to his stories about the culture and history of India. I came away feeling that I learned a lot about India....the real India.....and developed a genuine liking for the country and the Indian people. It was a “taste”.....I definitely want to go back and see more! Shah was always in tune to the group’s needs and was very accommodating.....he definitely made the trip a success. He was a true professional in every way. He had a wonderful sense of humor. Accommodations were first class...3 of us shared a room so a very comfortable cot was always set up.....however, at each hotel we had to call for extra towels, coffee mug, pillow etc......we were always served promptly....a minor inconvenience really. I was surprised at the pollution....a heads up might be helpful, as one may want to pack a mask. So many highlights.....of course the Taj Mahal and the Varanasi experience.....but I’ll never forget our tour of the government school and meeting the children, the kitchen at the Sikh temple was another highlight. I loved the safari and being in the rural area for a couple of days.....and of course our beloved bus bizarres..........so incredible. Thank you all! Cindy Henry.
Cindy Henry
London ON, Canada
Hello Nazir. Thank you for the “Welcome Home” greeting! Our tour certainly met and at times even exceeded our expectations! Some key points: -Our Explore India contact Rajeev Sharma was very professional at handling all those questions that are asked at the beginning of the tour. -Our guide Arvind Sharma was very knowledgeable, and always approachable. He was always prompt and was very passionate in describing the many rituals that happen in India. -Our driver (Ravi) and his assistant (Shankur) were always courteous and caring and always greeted us with smiles every time we returned to the bus. -Our hotels were definitely acceptable and there were 3 hotels that in our minds were exceptional: 1. The Leela Ambience. 2. The Tigress Ranthambore and 3. The Pride Plaza Aerocity. In summary, both Alan and I thoroughly enjoyed our tour with Explore India and would have no hesitation at all in recommending this tour to others. Sincerely,
C & A Koberstein
Surrey, Canada
We had a FABULOUS time in India. Our hotels were very comfortable and the food selection was excellent. Every aspect of the trip went smoothly and Rajiv and Yajur were both wonderful. Rajiv greeted us and explained everything really well and then was there to say farewell. Yajur was knowledgeable, funny, helpful...just all-round a great tour guide. He even arranged for Ian to go into town and buy a cricket bat And the itinerary was excellent - lots of variety and lots of information. We will tell all our friends that Explore India is the way to visit. I'll ask Ian tonight if he has any extra feedback and let you know. Many thanks and all the very best of the holidays to you and your family. We wish you a happy, healthy and prosperous 2016,
Toni & Ian McGregor
Burlington, Canada
Hi Nazir, it was such a fabulous experience, we had a fantastic time, can hardly believe it’s over! Not only was the tour amazing, the other 6 (we were really lucky) in the group were excellent. The food and the hotels were top notch, excellent value for our dollar. We loved how `things were taken care of``, we just had to have our bags outside the room, what service !!!! I know we will be seeing Mark and Anita here in Victoria. May even travel with them !!
Joanne and Richard
Victoria, Canada
Some very late feedback on our tour. We had a great tour and would like to thank you for all your efforts. Our accommodations were very good, the van very comfortable and the driver most helpful and fun to be with. Rajeev was in constant contact and available to assist and advise. The Taj Mahal exceeded expectations and Ranthambore was an unexpected highlight. Thanks again and best wishes for a healthy, happy and prosperous new year.
Dave Heath
Niagara on the Lake, Canada
Namaste Nazir, We are back home after our amazing trip to India. I thought the tour package that you put together was very well thought out and gave us a good look at what India is all about. I don't feel that I missed anything that I was hoping to see and experience in India, at least the north part. Your team in India could not have looked after us any better. Lynn and I spent two days on our own and felt that Rajeev was there making sure we were safe and organized whatever it was we wanted, from a numerologist to the market, organized dinners and vehicles to get us around. It can be quite intimidating when one first gets there so we really appreciated his advice on what to do and what not to do. Lo Chen, in Darjeeling, was a very gentle, kind and very knowledgeable man who made sure we learned about the area, had fun and were safe. Whatever anyone requested he made happen which is hard in a group our size. Arvind, well, he indeed was our leader and mentor. He is a very honorable, spiritual, knowledgeable man who is passionate about his country. We learned so much of the history and culture of India from this amazing man. Whatever anyone wanted it was always "no problem" and it would happen. We were very fortunate to be in India during Diwali and the celebration of the sun. From fireworks in front of a restaurant and dancing to Indian music after a beautiful buffet dinner to going out on a boat to watch the celebration of the sun on the Ganges, he worked very hard to please us all. We even got to meet his parents at their home on our request. I will never forget this very wise man. All in all, the trip was more than we could have expected. Sincerely,
Shirley Richmond
West Kelowna, Canada
Thanks for your note. We had a wonderful time with Ravi and a real nice bunch of fellow travellers who all became friends. Ravi's knowledge base and teaching background really made it perfect for me I am nearly impossible to information overload. We were very impressed with the details and attention provided to even the smallest things, like the return trip to the airport, someone loading us on the bus, driven to airport then someone there making sure we got the 60 feet to security, very comforting and part of the Explore India service we will point out to our friends as we talk about our trip. The hotels were all superior quality and the destinations were well selected. There is likely no way to reduce the hours on the bus with the current itinerary, it may have seen a bit much at the time, but there is no real alternative in order to get to the selected destination, having been back for a day I actually enjoyed seeing the landscape. If you have anyone asking for a previous travellers recommendation you are absolutely free to give them my cell number, I promise I will give you a 100% positive recommendation. From start to finish this was a first class operation and we found it to be super value for money. Torben
Torben & Nancy Angelo
Calgary, AB
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
Thanks for all your help and organizing the trip to India. I am so glad to have had the opportunity to experience this amazing land and people. This was a good way to visit.
Ricky V
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.