India and its citizens simply do many things differently from most westerns. Below are some bizarre / annoying / misunderstood customs you might encounter.

Staring and invasion of personal space

Just being different is enough to garner a seemingly endless stare in India. You will find that any time you stop to take a photo, an incredible number of locals suddenly appear to observe your every move. When you open your bag or wallet, you’ll find a local pretty much leafing through the rupees with you. What can you do? The first answer is not much. Personal space is not a concept in Indian culture, so staring and close contact should not be interpreted as rude behavior.

Begging

Although the poverty in India is sometimes difficult to deal with, we ask that you not give anything to beggars. Simply, handouts are not going to solve anything (apart from maybe assuaging your feelings of guilt) because they decrease the chances of helping these people to become self-reliant. Be prepared for the pressure to give; tourists usually give at least ten times the amount that Indian nationals do, so you will be an appealing target. The following is a common scenario: you decide to give a few rupees / a candy / a pen to a lone child. Somehow, before you know it, ten more children are swarming around you with outstretched hands and pleading voices. Most likely, you will not have enough for everyone, and the memory you will have of the experience is of the children that did not get anything, and the resultant squabbling 

Unfamiliar Body Language

Perhaps the most common Indian trait that can be misinterpreted is the ubiquitous “head-bob”. In fact, there are two types of head-bob, and each carries its own meaning. The first is a kind of short side-to-side tilt of the head, and more or less means “yes”. The second is longer, slower, and more undulating, and can be interpreted as “I see”, “maybe”, or even “uh-huh”. This type is worth learning, as it often works to ward off perspective hawkers and beggars. Hand gestures also carry various meanings. A quick twist of the wrist from palm-down to palm-up means “what do you want?”, “What are you doing?”, or “move along now”. A downward sweeping motion like somebody trying to fan fire means “stop, I want a ride”, or “I want to talk to you”. A good response to this one is the “uh-huh” head-bob described above.

And in general….

Despite advance preparation, it is still likely that you’ll be baffled by India. The driving style, the seeming lack of organization, the way men touch each other more than their wives, the way women do the heavy lifting in construction sites while the men look on… the list of differences between the West and India is seemingly endless. Perhaps the best advice we can give is to avoid trying to understand it, and just experience it instead. 

Further...

A word of warning about travelling in India. India is a country which is very different from anything you will have experienced before. Although this means it is not the easiest place to travel, this is also what makes it so special. Pollution, poverty and the crowds can result in initial culture shock but should be seen as an exciting new challenge.

In India there are very different attitudes to time keeping, public cleanliness, privacy and service. Trains will sometimes be late, plumbing can sometimes be temperamental and power will often just vanish. Optimistic menus turn out to have only one dish available and everyone, just everyone, will want to know your name. If you are able to travel with a lot of patience and a huge sense of humour, then we know that you - like all of us - will be captivated by what India has to offer.

Connectivity to India

Aside from air services from all major Asian & European airlines, there are non-stop air services from Chicago and New York to Delhi and Mumbai.

Time Zone

India is +5.30 over GMT

Visas

It is compulsory that all foreign travellers must possess a valid visa for visiting India. All visas are the responsibility of the traveller and is to be obtained before arrival into India. If the tour involves more than one visit to any country (including transit) we recommend multiple entry visas should be taken. Visa fees vary from country to country. Please check with the local diplomatic mission of the countries to be visited.

Climate

The Indian sub-continent is large and the climate varies from one part to another. This gives you a wide selection of climates to suit your holiday needs - from the cold slopes of the Himalayas to the sunny beaches of the Goan coast. The region has three major seasons - winter, summer and the monsoon. The best months to visit India are September through April. Nepal is cool in summer. From October through March, the mountains are best for soft adventure options. Bhutan is beautiful throughout the year, with summer being the best time to take advantage of its cooler climates. Tibet can be visited from April through October/ November. During the monsoons, the beaches tend to get rough in Sri Lanka.

Health

Tourists coming to India via Africa and South America or any other yellow fever infected areas must have a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Bottled drinking water is easily available throughout your tour. If you are taking any specific medication, it is advisable for you to bring it along as locally available formulations may vary. However, world-class medical facilities are available. Our company is fully equipped and experienced to handle any situation if the need arises.

Language

The region has a plethora of languages, which vary from state to state. English is widely spoken throughout the sub-continent. Guides and travel professionals are available in most major international languages to make your trip more enjoyable.

Foreign Currency & Customs

Foreign Exchange can be brought in without limit. Large amounts many need to be declared on arrival and a certificate issued against this to facilitate easy reconversion on departure. Tourists are warned that changing money through unauthorized persons is not only illegal but also involves the risk of receiving counterfeit currency. There are 24-hour exchange facilities available at all big cites and international airports. Regarding customs, items for personal use can be brought in without any restrictions. Certain electronic items such as computers, video cameras, etc., may need to be certified for re-export to avoid any problems on your departure.

Electricity, Communications, Opening Hours

Voltage in most places is 220 volts AC with points for 110 volts available in many hotels. You can fax and make international telephone calls from almost every place you visit. Banks are usually open from 10 am to 2 pm Monday to Friday and till 12 noon on Saturday. Many branches also offer extended banking hours. Many foreign money exchange outlets work later as well, with hotels offering round the clock money-changing facilities. General office working hours are 9.30 am till 5.30 pm. Shops usually remain open from 9.30 am to 7.00 pm

Program:

Arrive Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. Welcome to India!You will be met upon arrival at the airport by our representatives after you clear all your customs & immigration formalities. Depart for your chosen hotel for check in.Delhi stands as the capital of Modern India. Here you can see the mingling of the Old and New India, the ancient and the modern.  Delhi is made up of seven ancient cities, spanning the period from the 11th to 20^th centuries. Delhi has seen the rise and fall of many emperors which have left behind a plethora of monuments that commemorate the grandeur and glory of bygone ages. Very few cities in the world can express such a profusion of architectural styles. 

Overnight at the hotel (No Meals)

After breakfast proceed on a tour of Old & New Delhi.

Old Delhi was an ancient walled city. Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan in 1650 switched the Mughal capital from Agra to Delhi.  Shah Jehan possessing an exquisite talent, especially in architecture, created the seventh city and in the process brought about Delhi's glorious renaissance. Drive pass through red fort and Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India; and Chandni Chowk, the bustling and colorful market of the old city. Chandni Chowk was the commercial centre of Delhi in the old time and you will see it come alive in the morning as the trading day starts.Also enjoy cycle rickshaw ride during Old Delhi tour and Metro train ride board from Chawri Bazar train station and disembark at Central Secretariat

New Delhi was designed and built by the British in the 1920's-it's a city of wide boulevards impressive Government buildings, green parks and gardens. In 1911 King George V announced the transfer of the capital from Calcutta to Delhi. The King's architects, Lutyens and Baker, set in motion the Design and construction of Delhi's eight city - New Delhi.Lutyens designed an "Imperial City" having palatial-sized buildings set amid broad tree-lined avenues punctuated by Mughal style gardens, complete with fountains and shallow pools. It took 20 years to complete this immense undertaking only to have the British pack up and relinquish the subcontinent in 1947. You will visit two monuments from Delhi's past - Humayun's Tomb and Qutub Minar. Your drive takes you along the ceremonial avenue, Rajghat, past the imposing India Gate and Parliament House.

Overnight at the hotel (Meals - Breakfast)

After breakfast at hotel you will be transferred to airport to board flight for Varanasi. Met upon arrival in Varanasi airport and transfer to hotel.

Varanasi is the religious centre of Hindu religion. Situated on the banks of the holy river Ganges, Varanasi is considered to be among the oldest living cities of the world and has been a centre of learning and civilisation for centuries. Varanasi holds special significance in the lives of the Indian people. Every year hundreds of thousands of pilgrims make a long journey to this vibrant city where you can find the richest of the rich living side by side with the poorest of the poor. Travel to Varanasi with an open mind and see what faith can do to people and what their devotion to god leads them to achieve. Look beyond the poverty into the eyes of the people and you will see a sense of enlightenment and peace that their belief in a god has given them.  Varanasi is an unique city that vibrates with cosmic forces beyond comprehension.

Afternoon proceed for an excursion to Sarnath.

Sarnath which is around 10 Kms. from the centre of the city. Sarnath symbolises the birth of Buddhism.  It was here that Buddha revealed his doctrine and founded his monastic community. The MathuraSchool, Gupta, past Gupta and Medieval - covering work of sculptors from the 3rd century B.C. to the 12th century A.D. Also seen here is the original lion’s heads from the Ashok Pillar, which form the symbol of the Indian republic.Evening visit the ghats to participate in the Aarti. Aarti is a Sanskrit word which stands for homage or devotion. The aarti or offering of the lamps is observed at prescribed hours of the day and night to invoke the gods. It is believed that the gods physically present themselves before devotees at this ceremony. The lamps are revolved before the idols in a clockwise manner along with the chanting of hymns. This recitation is accompanied by drums, blowing of the conch-shell and tolling of the temple bells. At the end of the `aarti’, the priest takes a handful of water which he revolves around the god's idol. This is to pacify `agni' (the fire God), who is pressed into service in the form of the wick lamp. The lamps themselves are charged with this "Presence" and thus after the ceremony devotees collect the fumes and smear their faces with its aroma.

Overnight at hotel.  (Meals -Breakfast)

Early this morning leave your hotel around 0530 for an early morning sunrise boat excursion on the holy River Ganges. See Varanasi come alive along the banks of the river. See people bathing in the holy water and worshipping the rising sun. Witness the conclusion of life at the river bank holy cremation grounds. It is believed if you die in Varanasi you go straight to heaven. Varanasi will be one of the most extraordinary experiences of your visit to India. After the boat ride return to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast at hotel proceeds a brief Varanasi City Tour driving through the BenarasHinduUniversity with a visit to the Bharat Mata (Mother India) Temple.Later proceed on for a brief city tour of Varanasi city. Varanasi - driving through the BenarasHinduUniversity with a visit to the Bharat Mata (Mother India) Temple. Visit some of the holy temples of the city which encapsulates the ambiance and the spirit of the city. Highlights include the DurgaTemple, better known as the 'monkey temple' on account of the large number of monkeys residing there and the Temple of Vishwanath (or Visheshwar, Lord of the Universe). If time permits before returning to the hotel visit some of the silk brocade and weaving centers - a specialty of Varanasi.In the afternoon on time transfer to airport to board flight for Khajuraho. Met upon arrival at Khajuraho airport & transfer to hotel.Khajuraho was founded in the 9th and 10th century by the rulers of Chandela Dynasty. They were deeply influenced by Tantrism, in which eroticism becomes a theme of philosophical interest and the aim is sublimation of sexual relationship in the sexual act or "MAITHUN", women being regarded as the incarnation of the divine energy or "SHAKTI". It is also possible that the carvings of Khajuraho were influenced by "KAMA SUTRA", the famous treatise on erotic arts written by Vatsyayana in the time of the Guptas.This evening you will witness the folk & classical part of India as you will enjoy the performances of artists from different states of India performing folk and classical dances of the country at Kandariya Art & Culture.  The show is in an air-conditioned auditorium with state of art light and sound with 119 comfortable cushioned push back seats and wall to wall carpet.The real motive behind this show is to promote the cultural heritage of Indian dance forms and to promote tourism in Khajuraho and the nation as a whole.

Overnight at Hotel (Meals – Breakfast)

                                    Jhansi – Agra                           Train: 1750 / 2015 hrs.

 Morning after breakfast at hotel proceed for the world famous Khajuraho Temples built by the Chandela kings between 950 AD and 1050 AD the most important are the Chaunset Rogini Temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. The MahadevTemple, Chitragupta or BharatjiTemple with a lovely image of 11 headed Vishnu, Vishvanath and NandiTemples, LakshmanaTemple, VishvaTemple dedicated to Shiva which is the largest and most typical of Temples

Later drive to Jhansi. Enroute visit Orcha. 

Later continue driving to Jhansi. Upon arrival at Jhansi, transfer straight to train station to board train to Agra. Met upon arrival at Agra Railway station & transfer to hotel.

Overnight at Hotel. (Meals – Breakfast) 

After breakfast at the hotel proceed for city tour of Agra.

The magnificent monument to love – Taj Mahal, built by an emperor in memory of his beloved queen. Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1631, and is believed to have taken 22 years to complete, with over 20,000 craftsmen working around the clock. The design and construction is said to be that of the legendary architect, Ustad Ahamad Lahori. What makes the Taj Mahal unique is its perfect proportions, distinct femininity, medium of construction and ornamentation.  Its marble exterior reflects rose and golden tints at sunrise and sunset, while it is dazzling white during the day. It is impossible to visualize the Taj Mahal in any surrounding others than its paradoxical garden. Paradise, in Islam, is visualized as lush garden where running streams flow. When the Moghuls brought this concept to India they elevated it to the heights of incomparable history. 

Note: Taj Mahal remains closed on Friday.

Also visit Agra Fort and the city. At the impressive Agra Fort you are taken through the chambers of this royal residence. As you drive through the city witness the local life and bazaars (markets) and the hustle bustle of everyday India.Afternoon visit Mehtab Bagh.

Mehtab Bagh, the moonlit garden, grew just across the northern waterfront of Yamuna when the Taj Mahal was built on its south bank. This place was once a heavenly garden with shaded pavilions, fountain jets, fragrant flowers and fantastic pools. But gradually the site became desolate. This site has now turned in to an epicenter for the project to establish protective green around the Taj Mahal.The interest in Mehtab Bagh has developed again recently due to the increasing concern for the Taj Mahal.

Overnight at the hotel. (Meals – Breakfast)

Optional (At extra cost):

Mohhabat The Taj (A live show)

Pick up from your hotel around 1800 hrs. & proceed for live show on The Monument of Love “Taj Mahal”.

Love without lust can be a spiritual experience, one that distinguishes man from beasts. It is a passion and the idea of being romantically engaged at a higher level that define the intensity of pure love.It was this kind of intense and obsessive love that found expression through a work of art the Taj Mahal which today figures as a crown in the list of wonders. Minus love and the romantic saga associated with it, the Taj Mahal would be just a well-arranged heap of white stones. What really makes Taj Mahal stand out in the list of wonders is the passionate and romantic relationship that inspired its creation, the emotional halo that actually gets transformed into an architectural marvel. Indeed the Taj Mahal is synonymous with pure Love. Mohabbat the Taj, the-80 minute presentation that perfectly complements a pilgrimage to the Monument of Love. "Indeed to fully appreciate and soak into the beauty of the monument, one is advised to see the musical presentation at the Kalakriti auditorium.

After breakfast at the hotel drive to Jaipur. Enroute visit Fatehpur Sikri.

Fatehpur Sikri: The imperial city of the Mughal dynasty between 1571 and 1584, Fatehpur Sikri was built by Mughal Emperor Akbar. The architectural grandeur of this deserted city cannot be described in words and one can only experience the aura of its magnificent edifices by seeing them. Fatehpur Sikri is the most popular day excursion from Agra, the city of Taj and capital of invincible Mughals for a long time.

Today, as one enters Sikri from the Agra Gate, one of the nine gateways on the way to the palace complex, Diwan-i-Aam, or the hall of public audience appears first. It is a huge rectangular walled-in courtyard where petitions were heard, proclamations made, ambassadors received and entertainment programmes held. Ponder the mysterious desertion of this capital city that was dramatically abandoned a few years after it was built. It was a veritable fairy tale city and its 'ruins' are still in a pristine condition. It is not hard to imagine what the court life must have been like in the days of its grandeur.

Later continue your drive to Jaipur.  Upon arrival in Jaipur check into hotel.

Known as the “PinkCity”, Jaipur is the capital of the colourful state of Rajasthan. It has the distinction of being a well planned and laid out city. As you drive through the old part of town, you will witness a life most unlike others. Witness how the city blooms during the day in a kaleidoscope of colour and sound.

Overnight at the hotel. (Meals – Breakfast)

After breakfast depart the hotel at around 7 am for a half day excursion to Amber Fort. 11 Kms. from Jaipur, Amber Fort is a marvellous example of Rajput architecture with its terraces and ramparts reflected in the MaotaLake below. Go up the fort on the back of a gaily caparisoned elephant true to the style of the Maharajas of the past. The interiors of the fort  have various royal halls decorated with intricate ivory, mirror and glass work complemented by exquisite wall paintings. As you move between the rooms of this magnificent structure feel the history and visualise the pomp and grandeur of a kingdom never conquered.

Elephant rides at Amber Fort can not be guaranteed in advance. This is due to the fact that the number of elephants and the trips each elephant can take is very limited. All guests have to reach the Amber Fort in time and stand in line to wait their turn to climb the elephant. , these lines could sometimes be very long and some guests have had to be turned back.

Enjoy lunch at one of city restaurant (On own cost)

At around 2 p.m. venture back into the city, this time on a city tour.  This afternoon you will visit the CityPalaceMuseum where you can see an imposing blend of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal Art. The museum is resplendent with its collection of robes of royal princes, carpets, an armoury of old weapons, miniature paintings portraying court scenes, battle scenes and processions, Also visit the awe inspiring Jantar Mantar (an accurate observatory built in 1726 AD). Also included is a photo visit at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) - a five storied wonder with a spectacular pyramidal facade and overhanging windows with latticed screens, domes and spires. Also enjoy Rickshaw ride and walk to the Pin city of Jaipur.

Overnight at the hotel. (Meals – Breakfast)

After breakfast at the hotel proceed for excursion to Sanganer.

Drive past two massive Tripolias or gates on the Tonk Road to enter enchanting Sanganer located at a distance of 13-kilometers from the main JaipurCity. Discover a fascinating land of medieval ruins, ancient temples and deep cultural roots.

Set out on intriguing tours to the Kagazi Mohalla in Sanganer that is famous for skilled artisans who create exotic handmade paper. Also watch artisans create exquisite patterns on textiles with hand block-prints on your Sanganer tours.

Craftsmen use screen printers and wooden blocks to etch colorful and stunning patterns on cloth with simple methods. Famous as Sanganer textiles, these hand printed goods are famous all over India and abroad for their delicate designs and bright colors. A unique feature of Sanganer prints is the fact that colorful patterns in all possible colors are always printed on white backgrounds.

Later drive to Jodhpur. Upon arrival check in at the hotel.

Overnight at the hotel. (Meals-Breakfast)

After breakfast at the hotel proceed for city tour of Jodhpur.

The home of the Rathore rulers - the princely State of Rajasthan. A high 10 Km. long stone wall protects the well fortified city. Within stands an imposing Fort on a low range of sandstone hills, about 125 mtrs. Above the surrounding plains. Visit Mehrangarh Fort - founded in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha (after whom the city is named). The Fort is intricately adorned with long carved panels and latticed win dows of exquisite designs in red sandstone. Also visit Jaswant Thada - an imposing white marble cenotaph built to commemorate the acts of bravery and generosity of the rulers in 19th century. Also included is a visit to the local market to see the hustle bustle of everyday Jodhpur life.

Later drive to Jaisalmer. Upon arrival check in at the hotel.

Overnight at the hotel. (Meals-Breakfast)

After breakfast at the hotel proceed for city tour of Jaisalmer.

This citadel city was built in the 12th century is an architectural dream in yellow sandstone lying in the lonely silence of the Thar Desert. The Forts and palaces and several superbly carved Jain Temples in and around Jaisalmer are all reminiscent of a glorious history. Nothing else in India is remotely similar to Jaisalmer. visit GarhiSagarLake and the Fort. After visiting the Fort walk back to the hotel passing by the local market where you can see the desert life at its natural best.

Evening enjoy Camel ride at Sam sand dunes with Dinner.

Overnight at the hotel. (Meals-Breakfast)

After breakfast at the hotel drive to Jodhpur. Upon arrival check in at the hotel. Rest of the day free for relax.

Overnight at the hotel. (Meals-Breakfast)

After breakfast at the hotel drive to Udaipur. Enroute visit Ranakpur.

Ranakpur temple is one of the biggest and most important Jain temple in India. The extremely beautiful Ranakpur complex is well worth seeing. Sixty km before Udaipur, these temples lie in a remote and peaceful valley of the Aravalli hill range. The main temple is the ChamukhaTemple or four -faced temple, dedicated to Adinath. Built in 1439, this huge, beautiful crafted and well - kept marble temples has 29 halls supported by 1444 pillars, no two alike. Within the complex are two other Jain temples and a little distance away, a sun temples.

Later continue your drive to Udaipur. Upon arrival check in at the hotel. Evening at leisure.

Overnight at the hotel. (Meals-Breakfast)

After breakfast at the hotel proceed for city tour of Udaipur.

Visiting City Palace Museum - grandeur and intricacy stroked all over in granite, marble and mosaic displayed in the sparkling white filigreed balconies and windows, ornate arches and cupolas atop magnificent octagonal towers, Jagdish Temple - built in 1651 AD. Also visit Sahelion Ki Bari - the spectacular garden displaying the unique life style of the royal ladies who once lived in the palaces

Afternoon take a boat cruise on the serene and beautiful LakePichola.

The island palace on the lake called JagmandirPalace is quite fascinating. The banks of the lake provided interesting glimpses of the daily bathing and laundry that takes place here.  Looking across the lake, with the city and its great palace rising up behind the island palace, is a scene of rare beauty. You will also have time to spend in the bustling market that sprawls behind the City Palace Complex. 

Overnight at the hotel. (Meals-Breakfast)

After breakfast at the hotel morning free for independent activities.  Later in the afternoon on time transfer to airport to board flight for Delhi. Met upon arrival at Delhi’s domestic airport & transfer straight to International airport to board flight for onward destination.

END OF TOUR

Day 01 / Arrival Delhi

int. QUERIES ON +1-7184121139
Queens, New York, U.S.A.