*Rajasthan to Himalayas
There is much to see and experience in India and it is impossible to achieve everything in one trip. But in Visit Beyond we have put together a special tour for those who want a taste of India’s temptations and an exciting cultural diversity - you can experience Rajasthan’s desert and Maharaja fairytale palaces, temples, camels, elephants, small cosy towns, and the fascinating snow-capped mountain peaks of the Himalayas.
Details
Description
- Trip Length:
- 18 days / 17 nights.
- Highlights:
- This is as close as it gets to seeing all of northern India in one trip.
- Locations Visited:
- Jaipur, Bikaner, Pushkar, Agra, Moradabad, Corbett Tiger Park, Pilgrim town of Haridwar, Shimla, Manali, Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Mani Karen, Dharamshala, Chandigarh.
- Start City:
- Delhi.
- End City:
- Delhi.
- Physical rating:
- Culture rating:
- Transportation:
- AC vehicle.
- Departure days:
- Every day
- Included in the price:
- AC car for the whole trip (18 days) with all road taxes and parking fees, chauffeur who speaks Basic English, accommodation in hotel of choice (basis), elephant ride in Jaipur, camel ride in Pushkar, 1 jeep ride and 1 elephant joy ride with park entry fee with naturalist at Corbett, 17 breakfast, 2 lunch, 2 dinner.
- Group size:
- No limit.
This is not included
- Visas, travel insurance (compulsory), personal items, other tips, sleeping bag.
- Entry fees at the monuments.
- Items of personal nature e.g., room service, laundry, telephone, tips etc.
- Any additional cost incurred due to road blocks, political protests, natural disasters and situations beyond control.
Season
Be prepared for that tour as climate regularly contains large contrasts. The tour is not conducted during the period from 15th December to 31st March due to snow in the mountains.
Day 1: Delhi - Jaipur
(265 km) The drive from Delhi to Jaipur in Rajasthan state takes approx 5 hours. Jaipur was built in 1772 and is known as the "pink city" because of its pink buildings in the old town.
Day 2: Jaipur
The day is spent in Jaipur visiting the Amber fort, Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), City Palace and Jantar Mantar. The Amber Fort, reached atop an elephant, is beautifully situated on a hilltop. The place is a huge complex of palaces, pavilions, gardens and temples built over two centuries. Jaigarh Fort is listed in Guinness World Records as the world's largest cannon-guarded fort. City Palace was the former royal residence, and the architecture is a blend of Rajasthan and Mughal styles. Jantar Mantar is an Indian star observatory. (B)
Day 3: Jaipur - Bikaner
(250 km) After breakfast we drive to Bikaner, which takes approx 5 hours. We visit Karni Mata Temple (Rat Temple) and a camel farm in Bikaner. Karni Mata Temple is an exciting and very different temple, filled with hundreds of sacred rats, which all run around freely among people. It is 600 years old and an important temple for Hindu pilgrims. Bring socks, as shoes are banned inside, and the floor is littered with cereal and rat droppings!
Day 4: Bikaner - Puskar
(250 km) Pushkar has a relaxed atmosphere and is an important city for pilgrims who come here to bathe in one of India's holy lakes. The afternoon is at your leisure, where we can recommend a walk around the lake. A small camel ride is also arranged. (B)
Day 5: Puskar - Agra
(350 km) After a long drive we reach Agra. En route we visit the ghost city Fatehpur Sikri. Time permitting, we’ll go for a sunset view of the Taj Mahal. The evening is at your leisure. (B)
Day 6: Agra - Moradabad
(270 km) We’ll start the day watching the sunrise at the beautiful Taj Mahal mausoleum. After breakfast we visit the impressive Agra Fort (Red Fort) and drive to Moradabad. Moradabad was founded in 1600 by Murad, son of Shah Jahan (Mughal emperor who built the Taj Mahal). Moradabad is famous for its many shops and large exports of brass ornaments and statues to the West. (B)
Day 7: Moradabad - Corbett Tiger Park
(130 km) Corbett National Park is located in the state of Uttaranchal in the foothills of Himalayas. The Ramganga River runs through the park's low mountains. Along the riverside are often crocodiles and freshwater turtles soaking in the sun. On the grass plains, south of the park's headquarters you'll find abundant wildlife: Indian elephants, leopards, jackals, langur monkeys, wild boars and others. In addition, there are over 500 bird species, including hornbills and sea eagles. (B,L,D)
Day 8: Corbett Tiger Park
The entire day is spent in the national park. You come on a jeep safari with a guide and ride atop an elephant. If you are lucky, you can get a glimpse of one of the park's tigers. Note: if there is heavy rainfall, there is a risk that the jeep safari and elephant ride are canceled due to security reasons. There will be alternative activities. (B,L,D)
Day 9: Corbett Tiger Park - Haridwar
(150 km) Haridwar-one of the seven sacred cities in India-lies at the foot of Shiwalik mountains where the Ganges leaves the mountains and spreads into the north Indian plains. The Ganges and the holy "Vishnu footprint" make it an important pilgrimage site. No alcohol is available and you cannot bring your own. Only Hindu vegetarian food is available in town. (B)
Day 10: Haridwar - Simla
(300km) Simla (2,205m) is a pleasant city with a strong British influence and a pleasant climate in summer. The city center-Mall Road-is often closed to vehicle traffic, which creates a relaxed atmosphere. The streets are steep and narrow, and the many well-preserved houses from the English colonial times. We recommend a hike up to Jakhu temple (40 mins). (B)
Day 11: Simla - Manali
(260 km) In the afternoon you arrive in Manali, a well-developed mountain village in the Indian Himalayas (2,050m). The city is characterized by the fact that a large part of the city's residents come from neighboring Tibet. From Manali you are likely to see snowy mountain peaks. Don’t miss the charming old town and the Tibetan bazaar. (B)
Day 12: Rohtang Pass - Solang Valley
Today you can look forward to a truly beautiful drive up to Rohtang Pass (3,979m). At the mountain pass it is possible to go skiing, snowboarding, riding on yak, eat a light lunch or simply enjoy the amazing views of the Himalayan snow-capped mountain peaks. On the way back to Manali, we take a look at Solang Valley. There are opportunities for optional activities such as paragliding, four-wheel and off-road motorcycles, riding on horseback and shooting drills. (Any activities in the Solang Valley or Rohtang Pass are not included in price). Alternatively, you can choose to relax and enjoy the landscape. (B)
Day 13: Mani Karan - Kasol Valley - Manali
(90 km) Today we go to Mani Karan, a sacred Hindu and Sikh pilgrimage site. There are many temples and the area has several hot springs, which some claim have healing properties. On the journey to / from Manali, we will take a break in the cozy backpacker stop Kasol. The city is nestled in the mountains and accompanied by a river. (B)
Day 14: Manali
This day is completely free in Manali, where you can visit some of the city's temples, or perhaps take a trip to Old Manali, which is very different from the bustling city center. (B)
Day 15: Manali - Dharamshala
(240 km) The Dalai Lama's advocacy work has made Dharamshala known throughout the world, but it is actually in the nearby village of McLeod Ganj town that he lives in exile. Pilgrims and travelers come to soak in the Tibetan atmosphere, take courses in Buddhism and meditation, and trek in the beautiful, mountainous landscape. (B)
Day 16: Dharamshala
In Dharamshala there is ample opportunity to get out and go for long walks in the scenic areas overlooking the Himalayan peaks. When you need to relax, you can settle down at one of the many small cafes and enjoy the view. The city is heavily influenced by Tibetan culture. (B)
Day 17: Dharamshala - Chandigarh
(250 km) Chandigarh is a modern city, built in 1950's and designed by French architect Le Corbusier. It is also known to be one of India's cleanest and best-planned cities. The attractions include the popular park, Nek Chand's Fantasy Rock Garden, where you can see fantasy figures and landscapes, made from industrial waste. There is much to do here and it’s all yours to enjoy! (B)
Day 18: Chandigarh - Delhi
(258km) After breakfast we drive back to Delhi, arriving in the afternoon/evening. We transfer you to your next pre-booked hotel, or you may proceed to your next destination. (B)
(B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner )
Index of notes:
Emergency Contact - Emergency Funds - Additional Expenditures - Tipping - Weather and Unpredictables - Meals - Group Leaders and Guides - Arrival - What to bring - Checklist - Visas - Laundry - Share Your Trip - Respectful Dress - Money, Dough, Loot & Booty - Departure Tax - Communications - Expect the Unexpected - Health & Fitness - Travel Insurance - Your Travel Buddies - Responsible Travel - The law and "the man"
Emergency Contact
In the event of a genuine crisis or emergency, Visit Beyond’s India Office can be reached on Mobile - 0091 93101 40833, 98181 61194. For further contact details please use the following page: http://www.visitbeyond.com/top-menu/contact-us
Emergency Funds
We advise that you keep INR 5,000 for unforeseen incidents and circumstances beyond our control (eg. a natural disaster, civil unrest, etc.).
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Additional Expenditures
Take into account your personal spending habits when deciding how much money to bring. How much will you drink and party? How many souvenirs to you intend to bring? How many gifts? Remember to include tips in your calculations. (See below.)
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Tipping
Visit Beyond employs local guides who greatly appreciate recognition of services rendered. Tipping about INR 200 per day (if you are happy with the service for a one time day sight seeing) is appropriate, but not compulsory. We suggest INR 50 per day for porters (if applicable). For drivers who render services for several days in a row, INR 100 per day is appropriate. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
At small restaurants you may want to round up to the nearest INR 20. At upscale restaurants, a tip of 5 to 10% is appreciated. (Note that upscale restaurants often levy a 10% service charge on the bill. Additional tipping is at your discretion.
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Weather and Unpredictables
Visit Beyond operates trips in India throughout the year—including the rainy season—and changes may result from inclement weather and other unforeseen circumstances. We reserve the right to change the itinerary according to such circumstances as we see fit to ensure the best experience for our customers.
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Meals
Meals in India - Breakfasts are often simple (eggs, bread, butter and jam, coffee/tea would be most common). This is mostly accompanied with Indian breakfast dishes. For lunch and dinners, if you are new to Indian food then the easiest is to order some curries/cooked vegetables/gravies with Indian breads and rice.
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Group Leaders and Guides
Visit Beyond will often provide experienced, local, English-speaking guides who know the destination and region well. Kindly note that it is sometimes necessary to change the guide at the last minute due to unforeseen circumstances. Your guide is there for you. He will offer recommendations, history, useful phrases and more. We encourage you to ask questions. At Visit Beyond we aim to support local guides who have specialized knowledge of the regions we visit.
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Arrival
If you have booked an arrival package then you can expect a Visit Beyond representative waiting for you at the airport. If you cannot locate your tour leader at the airport, please contact Visit Beyond at Mobile - 0091 93101 40833, 98181 61194. Office Phone - 0091 11 2353 9018, 2353 5231
Visit Beyond does not offer refunds for missed transfers due to a change in flight or delays. Any additional cost you may incur to meet with your group is at your own expense.
What to bring
Pack according to the tour you have chosen. If you’re going trekking, bring appropriate shoes; if you’re going diving, bring your suit, etc. Visit Beyond encourages you to pack only necessities. Although there are some tours and trips in which you can leave your luggage behind for a day’s excursion, we generally require you to carry your own gear. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to pack in a backpack with straps and back support and a smaller daypack. We strongly discourage traditional luggage!
Responsible travel (see below) dictates that we respect local cultures. Bring a camera and take pictures and video, but never intrude on people’s lives.
See our checklist below for more specifics.
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Checklist
This checklist is intended as a reference guide; it is not a complete packing list. Always keep in mind weight restrictions according to your airline of choice.
Travel documents: Passport and visas, travel insurance documents, tickets, Visit Beyond vouchers (if any).
Money: Cash, credit card, money pouch.
Day pack: First-aid kit, medication/prescriptions (consider carrying a doctor’s letter if you require a large amount of medication), sunscreen, refillable water bottle and purification tablets, flashlight, insect repellent, hat and sunglasses, traveler’s diarrhea tablets, prescription glasses, contact lenses and solution, earplugs, playing cards, phrasebook.
Large pack: Alarm clock, international outlet adapter, swimsuit, lightweight towel, eye mask, comfortable walking shoes, raincoat, umbrella, waterproof jacket, outdoor sandals with good grip, waterproof bags for the rainy season, appropriate clothes for temples and religious sites.
And, of course, your camera, film or memory cards and spare batteries!
Please also check our online checklist for this tour.
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Visas
Tourist visa needed for traveling around in India.
For more information on Visa for Danes refer to http://www.indian-embassy.dk/mainPages/home.asp
For more information on Visa for Dutch nationals refer to
http://www.indianembassy.nl/page181000.htm
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Laundry
Some hotels offer laundry services for an additional charge. You can find additional laundry services in all major cities. If you choose to do your own laundry, kindly use non-polluting and biodegradable soap.
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Share Your Trip
Go on, show off a little! Share your pictures on our Facebook page. We occasionally hold contests for those who provide the best shots, so stay on the look-out and you could win a free trip!
Respectful Dress
Remember that styles of dress are generally conservative throughout Asia. This is especially true outside major cities. Visit Beyond therefore strongly recommends modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in the predominantly hot Asian climate. Avoid tank tops on the beach and never sunbathe topless. Men and women alike are often required to wear trousers that cover the legs in temples and religious sites.
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Money, Dough, Loot & Booty
We recommend withdrawing money from ATMs, which are widely available throughout India. This has the advantage of keeping your money safe in the bank; not vulnerable in your back pocket. Remember to bring your bank’s emergency contact details in the event that your card is stolen. In addition, notify your bank of your travels before you depart, as banks often place a temporary hold on cards due to transactions in foreign countries or other suspicious activities.
Visit Beyond does not recommend traveler’s cheques. Exchanging them can be a lengthy process and can pose difficulties due to banking hours and holidays. In addition to a commission, unfavorable exchange rates often apply to traveler’s cheques. If you insist on bringing traveler’s cheques then purchase them with a major brand like American Express and strong currency like US Dollars. Old cheques are rarely, if ever, accepted.
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Departure Tax
There is no departure tax at Indira Gandhi International Airport at the present time. This is subject to change without notice and Visit Beyond is not liable for unexpected charges levied on departing tourists.
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Communications
The most reliable method of communication during your travels will be email. Although Internet access is widely available in India, we do visit areas of the country for several days at a time in which Internet access is limited or unavailable. Please take this into account when planning your trip. It is a good idea to leave your booking agent’s contact details or Visit Beyond’s contact information with friends or family in your home country in case of emergencies. We do not recommend that you leave friends and family with your hotel details because there is no guarantee that hotel staff speaks English. Facebook is another handy tool to keep in touch. Always register with your country’s embassy in India and provide details of your itinerary in order to make yourself available in the event of an emergency.
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Expect the Unexpected
Visit Beyond, as the name implies, brings you places that are beyond the well-worn tourist path. Out here, things sometimes go wrong and if they do, it is imperative that you tell your guide, tour leader or Driver immediately. They are best suited to help however they can. If this does not suffice, your Driver will contact our manager.
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Health & Fitness
There are no health requirements for this trip. However, to get the most out of your trip, all travelers should be in good physical health. You should consult your doctor or physician before leaving your home country and you should honestly assess your ability to complete your vacation based on the detailed Visit Beyond trip itinerary. In general, the more you physically prepare for the trip, the more you will enjoy it. We sometimes walk at altitude and some treks are very demanding. Expect hilly terrain and extreme temperatures. Visit Beyond and its guides reserve the right to exclude a participant without refund if said traveler is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to him/herself or to the group. Small and very handy first aid kits should be readily available in your home country. We recommend you purchase a kit before departure along with any personal medication you may require. Read the trip itinerary closely and bring medicine accordingly, as many trips entail travel on long, windy roads and require that you eat local food. Do not rely on trip leaders or guides, as they are legally prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache medicine and antibiotics.
Visit Beyond is well aware of the health risks of bird flu and SARS. Therefore, Visit Beyond reserves the right to make unannounced changes to all itineraries in the very unlikely occurrence of an outbreak of bird flu, SARS or other disease. Please contact us at india@visitbeyond.com should you require any clarification.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is obligatory to join a Visit Beyond trip. We recommend Gouda Travel Insurance for our European customers.
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Your Travel Buddies
Traveling in a group can be a very positive experience. You are likely to find that your travel buddies hail from all over the world. Therefore, you will get the double pleasure of experiencing a new part of the world and new friends to enjoy it with. In order to get the most out of your trip, each traveler must respect every member of the group, arrive on time according to the trip itinerary, and practice patience with one another. These are your responsibilities as a member of a group and we expect each member to follow them. For reasons of privacy, Visit Beyond will not provide personal information or contact details of your fellow travelers prior to departure.
Solo Travelers
Visit Beyond trips most often provide double room accommodation. A single supplement charge is levied for solo travelers. This applies only to accommodation during the tour. This tour can be arranged individually for solo travelers.
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Responsible Travel
Traveling responsibly is a pillar of the Visit Beyond philosophy. To us, it means two things: respect for the environment and respect for local cultures. We practice low-impact tourism and make every effort to preserve the environment. We refuse to treat local people as mere photo-ops and insist that you engage with locals as human beings. You will have a better trip for it. Please refer to our Responsible Travel page for further details and suggestions for responsible travel.
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The law and "the man"
Visit Beyond does not tolerate illegal drugs nor do we tolerate visiting prostitutes. Both of these may be common among certain communities we visit but they are illegal nonetheless. Engaging in such activities puts you and your group at serious risk. Possession of illegal drugs is a crime punishable by death in India. Visit Beyond and group leaders reserve the right to immediately expel from the group anyone engaging in these activities.
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