Trip Style
Classic: Designed to ensure an authentic
and unforgettable travel experience, our Classic trip styles have broad
appeal. That’s because they are all about the exploration of unique
landscapes, awe-inspiring wildlife and foreign cultures.
Service Level
Standard: Our Standard service level
features more comfortable tourist class hotels and guesthouses that
reflect your destination’s character. Of course, you’ll retain local
colour with some travel by public transportation but sometimes you’ll
enjoy the convenience of private vehicles. Ideal for travellers looking
for an authentic experience and a little more comfort.
Physical Grading
Light walking and hiking that is suitable for most fitness levels.
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Delhi
Arrive
in Delhi at any time. There are no planned activities, so check into
to the hotel and enjoy the city. In the evening you will meet your
fellow group members to go over the details of your trip. Check the
notice board or ask reception where and what time the group meeting will
be held.
Day 2 Delhi/ Agra
This
morning we dive into the heart of India’s capital to explore Old and New
Delhi. Visit Delhi’s famous Jama Masjid (Great Mosque) and climb the
minaret for a bird’s eye view of the old city. Walk through Chandni
Chowk, one of India’s oldest and busiest markets, and learn the history
of the Sikh religion at the important Gurduwara, (Sikh place of
worship). Stop for photos at the colourful spice market before finishing
at Connaught Place, one of the most prominent architectural remnants of
British rule.
The Masjid-i-Jahan Numa, commonly known as the Jama or Jarna Masjid
(Great Mosque) of Delhi is the principal mosque of Old Delhi in India.
Masjid-i-Jahan Numa means "mosque commanding a view of the world, "
whereas the name Jama Masjid is a reference to the weekly congregation
observed on Friday (the yaum al-jum`a) at the mosque. Commissioned by
the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and completed in the year 1656 AD, the
Jarna Masjid is the best-known and largest mosque in India; its
courtyard can hold up to twenty-five thousand worshippers. The mosque
houses several relics in a niche in the north gate, including a
priceless copy of the Qur'an written on deer skin.
The Sikh holy site of Gurdwara SisGanj stands at the site where the
ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, was beheaded in 1675 on the orders
of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb for refusing to accept Islam. During a
time when the emperor was waging a war against Hindus, Guru Tegh Bahadur
argued for freedom of worship and was executed as a result. Before his
body could be quartered and exposed to public view, it was stolen under
cover of darkness by one of his disciples, Lakhi Shah Vanjara, who then
burnt his house to cremate the Guru's body. The severed head (Sis) of
Guru Tegh Bahadur was recovered by Bhai Jaita, another disciple of the
Guru, and cremated by the Guru's son, Gobind Rai, later to become Guru
Gobind Singh, the tenth and last Sikh Guru.
The giant circle of New Delhi’s Connaught Place, sitting at the
centre of any map of Delhi, radiates with roads like spokes from a
wheel. The circle’s obviously Victorian architecture was modeled after
the Royal Crescent in Bath, England.
Drive time : Approx 5 hours 210 Kms
Day 3 Agra - Taj Mahal
We
see sunrise this morning in the Muslim city of Agra a city that is best
known as the site of India’s most famous landmark, the Taj Mahal. We
visit the great icon of Mughal architecture the Taj Mahal in the early
morning for the best light- be sure to have plenty of memory in your
camera! This afternoon we visit I’timad-ud-Daulah, also known as the
‘Baby Taj'. It was built before the Taj Mahal by Nur Jahan, Queen of
Jehangir, for her parents. The first Mughal building to be faced with
white marble and where ‘pietra dura’, (precious stones inlaid into
marble) was first used. We also ride one of the cycle-rickshaws to visit
the Agra Fort.
Constructed between 1631 and 1654 by a workforce of 22 000, the Taj
Mahal was built by the Muslim Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum
for his favourite wife, Arjumand Bano Begum, better known as Mumt?z
Mahal. Mumt?z had already borne the emperor fourteen children when she
died in childbirth, and it is the romantic origin of the Taj as much as
its architectural splendour that has led to its fame worldwide. Actually
an integrated complex of many structures, the Taj Mahal is considered
the finest example of Mughal architecture, itself a combination of
Islamic, Hindu, Persian and Turkish elements.
The walled city of the Agra Fort was first taken over by the
Moghuls, at that time led by Akbar the Great, in the late 16th century.
Akbar liked to build from red sandstone, often inlaid with white marble
and intricate decorations, and it was during his reign that the fort
began changing into more of a royal estate.
However, it was only during the reign of Akbar's grandson, Shah
Jahan (who would eventually build the Taj Mahal) that the site finally
took on its current state. Unlike his grandfather, Shah Jahan preferred
buildings made from white marble, often inlaid with gold or
semi-precious gems, and he destroyed some earlier buildings inside the
fort in order to build others in his own style. At the end of his life
Shah Jahan was imprisoned in the fort by his son, Aurangzeb. It is said
that Shah Jahan died in Muasamman Burj, a tower with a marble balcony
with an excellent view of the Taj Mahal.
The fort was also a site of one of the most important battles of the
Indian rebellion of 1857, which caused the end of the British East
India Company's rule in India, leading to a century of direct rule of
India by Britain.
Day 4 Bharatpur
This morning we travel to Bharatpur En route we will stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the now deserted former capital of the Mughals.
The political capital of India's Mughal Empire under the reign of
Akbar the Great (1571-1585), Fatehpur Sikri was eventually abandoned due
to lack of water. Considered the crowning architectural legacy of Akbar
(who also built the Red Fort) and still almost perfectly preserved,
today the site is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The
building material predominantly used is red sandstone, quarried from the
same rocky outcrop on which it is situated. In its day, Fatehpur Sikri
shared its imperial duties as a capital city with Agra, where a bulk of
the arsenal, treasure hoards, and other reserves were kept at its Red
Fort for security. During a crisis, the court, harem, and treasury could
be removed to Agra, only 26 miles away, less than a day's march.
In the afternoon you have the option of visiting Keoladeo National
Park. Now declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, duck-hunting reserve
of the Maharajas is one of the major wintering areas for large numbers
of aquatic birds from Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, China and Siberia. Some
364 species of birds, including the rare Siberian Crane, have been
recorded in the park. We will overnight in Bharatpur.
Approx Travel Time: 2 hours
Day 5-6 Jaipur
Depart
early morning to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Enroute we will stop
in Abhaneri. Abhaneri is supposed to have been established by Raja
Chand. Many believe that Raja Chand was in fact Raja Bhoja, a celebrated
king who ruled over the Gurjar kingdom in the 9th century. Abhaneri was
earlier known as Abha Nagri or the city of brightness. Today, this
ancient village is in ruins but yet attracts many tourists from all
across the world.
Close by the Harshat Mata Temple is the step well Chand Baoli,
belonging to the 11th century AD. The desert kingdom of Rajasthan has
many such tanks which served as community centres, and constructing them
was considered an act of great generosity and benevolence. These baolis
or step wells were no ordinary structures; they were marvels of
architecture. The Chand Baoli has beautifully carved panels inserted
into the sides. The steps, in sets of 4 or 5, are in the shape of an
inverted 'V'. The carved stone pillars, which are somewhat damaged now,
were once strong enough for supporting pulleys to draw water. Several
storied verandas surround this beautiful step well.
Founded in 1728, Jaipur, or “The Pink City” as it is often called,
is unlike any other pre-modern Indian city, in that the entire town was
planned according to the principles of Hindu architectural theory. The
city is in fact built in the form of a nine-part mandala known as the
Pithapada, which combined with wide streets makes for an unusually airy,
orderly atmosphere. That the results of this urban planning have so
endured to this day (present day population approximately 3 million) is
nothing short of miraculous.
Enter the heart of the mandala (on foot or by cycle rickshaw) and
you are in the central palace quarter, with its sprawling Hawa Mahal
palace complex, formal gardens and a small lake. Built in 1799, the Hawa
Mahal, "Palace of Winds", was part of the City Palace, an extension of
the Zenana or chambers of the harem. Its original intention was to allow
royal ladies to observe everyday life in the street below without being
seen. Constructed of red and pink sandstone highlighted with white
lime, the five-storied facade is peppered with 953 small windows. The
breeze (hawa) that comes through the windows keeps it cool even in hot
months, and gives the palace its name.
We also visit the ruined city of Amber, former capital of Jaipur
state. Founded by the Meenas, Amber was a flourishing settlement as far
back as 967 AD. Overlooking the artificial lake south of Amber town
stands the Amber Fort/Palace complex, famous for its mixture of Hindu
and Muslim architecture. At the bottom of a hill sits Amber Fort,
initially a Palace Complex within the Fort of Amber on top of the hill
(today known as Jaigarh fort). The two forts are connected through
well-guarded passages, and there is even the option of an elephant ride
from the town up to the palace courtyard.
During our time in Jaipur you may also wish to include a visit to
the Jantar Mantar, or Royal Observatory. The term Jantar Mantar actually
refers to a collection of architectural astronomical instruments built
between 1727 and 1733 by Maharaja Jai Singh II at his then-new capital
of Jaipur. It is modelled after the one that he had built for him at the
then Mughal capital of Delhi. He had constructed a total of five such
observatories at different locations, including the ones at Delhi and
Jaipur; the Jaipur observatory is the largest of these.
Another great option is to see a Bollywood film in India it is much,
much more than what we are accustomed to in the west. The atmosphere,
energy and pure fun (not to mention volume!) has to be experienced to be
believed. The Raj Mandir Movie Theatre is widely acclaimed as the
largest cinema hall in Rajasthan, and one of the best in the country.
The exterior is adorned with asymmetrical curves and shapes with stars,
illuminated by hidden lights at night. The reception has a number of
glittering chandeliers hanging in domes from the ceiling. The auditorium
is spectacularly decorated with indirect lighting of changing colors
hidden behind the plaster troughs of walls and ceilings. Even if you do
not understand the language of the film screened, you will be
entertained anyway by the emotions involved in the movie and of course
the crowd..
Approx Travel Time: 5 hours
Day 7 Delhi
We
return to Delhi today for final opportunities to take photographs, and
if time permits re-visit any sites that you liked or shop 'til you drop!
Approx Travel Time : 6 hours
Day 8 Delhi
You are free to depart any time you like on day 8. Your CEO can help you arrange any onward travel.
What's Included
Walk through Old Delhi-Jama Masjid, Gurduwara, Chandni
Chowk, Connaught Place, Entrance and guided tours of Jaipur City
Palace, of Amber Fort Palace, and of Fatephur Sikri. The Red Fort of
Agra, The Taj Mahal, Entrance to l'timad-ud-daulah (Baby Taj), Walk in
Abhaneri village
Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been
compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject
to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and
the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It
may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our
itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past
travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small
change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the
change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year.
Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding
experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in
November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you
may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your
Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there
have been changes that affect your plans.
Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route
described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the
itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make
alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our
journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we
visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a
general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific
destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be
visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research
stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
Important Notes
1.India is a country which is very different to 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. During our time here we
have come to love this large and wonderfully different country but we
know that we should always expect to encounter some difficulties along
the way.
2. 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 healthy sense of humor, then we
know that you - like all of us - will be captivated by what India has to
offer.
3. Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures
tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may
have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1
of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be
continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip
concludes.
Group Leader Description
All group trips are accompanied by one of
our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the CEO is to take the
hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible.
They will provide information on the places you are travelling through,
offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating
venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides
in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general
knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical,
cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where
we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places
we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
Group Size Notes
Max 15, Avg 10
Your Fellow Travellers
As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all
the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a
group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the
world and are likely to be of a variety of ages too. We ask you to be
understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group -
patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the
benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have
responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a
certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting.
We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate
are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes
just a little effort on your part.
Meals Included
No meals are included.
Meal Budget
Allow USD135-175 for meals not included
Meals
Eating is a big part of travelling. Travelling with us you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is
available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip
price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum
flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives
you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our
groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of
dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this
though. Your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants
during your trip. Vegetarians will be able to find a huge range of
different foods - India is vegetarian heaven. For all trips please refer
to the meals included and budget information for included meals and
meal budgets.
Transport
Charter bus, taxis, auto rickshaw, cycle rickshaw.
About our Transportation
TRAIN
The best way to see India is at ground level on the railway system.
In fact, no visit to India would be complete without the experience of
tavelling on a train and negotiating the busy railway stations. The
chaos in the Indian Railway stations is a replica of the life in India.
Indian trains are not merely a conveyance they are an odyssey so sit
back relax, be patient and enjoy the show.
We use a combination of AC 2 tier, AC 3 tier and sleeper
class (for overnight journeys) and AC Chair car or second class seats
for day journeys.
There are no restaurant or buffet cars on Indian Railways, but on
long distance trains an attendant will appear in your coach and ask you
if you would like to order food. Regular stops are made at stations
where food is also available and on some trains many vendors board the
train selling chai, cold drinks and crisps and biscuits.
Don't expect pristine western standards anywhere in India, but
you'll find AC2, AC3 and AC Chair class fairly clean by Indian
standards, with both western-style and squat toilets usually in a
reasonably sanitary condition. Sleeper Class and 2nd class toilets may
be a different matter! Bring your own toilet paper and hand wash soap or
liquid.
Indian trains are quite safe to travel on, even for families or
women traveling alone, and you are unlikely to have any problems.
Having said that, theft of luggage, although rare is not unheard of, so
just for peace of mind you might like to take along a chain and padlock
to secure your bags (readily available at all Indian stations).
Generally, Indian Railways are very efficient, but Indian trains do
run late particularly in winter time when fog is heavy, and sometimes
it's many hours rather than minutes. Make sure you have something to
occupy your time – a good book, music, a magazine or photos of your home
country and family to show the Indian travelers also waiting for the
train. You should also have snacks and water for the journey.
ROAD
Traveling by road in India or Nepal is certainly not what people are
use to in Western countries. Rules are not always followed, drivers
appear to speed, do not stay in their lanes, overtake in seemingly
dangerous situations, rarely use their mirrors or driving lights at
night time. The horn however is used very frequently and can range from
the latest Bollywood tune to Britney Spears! In India, although the
government is investing large sums of money improving the road
infrastructure, there is a lot more to be done. As a result, in both
India and Nepal, some of the roads are poorly maintained, pot holed and
uneven. This gets even more pronounced particularly during and after the
monsoon. Travel time covering relatively short distances is very long
in comparison to Western countries.
Local Flights
All local flights are included in the cost of your tour
unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport
information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets.
Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you
prior to the flight departure.
Single Travellers
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more
to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and
do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group
trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of
the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips
are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries
must pay the single trip price.
Accommodation
Hotels/guesthouses (7 nts)
My Own Room
Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room"
option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all
night stops on tour.
About Accommodation
A variety of styles of hotels/guest houses are used in
India. These can vary in terms of service, efficiency and cleanliness.
In many instances they might not be like what you are used to back home.
Power cuts can and are a regular occurrence in many places, especially
throughout North and Central India. Although a number of hotels have
generators there may be times when these won’t work. It is also
recommended when you are in your room to lock the door, as staff will
sometime enter without reason.
Joining Hotel
Hotel TJS Grand
16/7, W.E.A. Arya Samaj Road,
Metro Pillar: 88, (Opposite Satbhrawan School)
Karol Bagh, New Delhi, 110005
Tel: + 91 11 45000556
Joining Instructions
When arriving at the airport in New Delhi taking a cab is
the most convenient way to get to your hotel. Because taxi drivers are
famous for tampering with their meters and overcharging, use the prepaid
taxi service offered at the airport - you can make the arrangements at
designated counters outside the baggage-claim area of the domestic
terminals and international terminal. Unfortunately scammers have set up
similar services, so make sure the counter is operated by the Delhi
Traffic Police. Your destination, the time of your arrival and the
amount of luggage determine the rate, which you pay in advance at the
counter, but should be between INR200-300. Take the receipt and locate
your assigned taxi. Taxis are black with yellow tops and have yellow
number plates. Once you get into the taxi, don't give the driver the
payment slip until you reach your destination. If the driver demands
more rupees, politely refuse, although if they have driven safely you
may like to tip INR10-20.
Be aware too, that touts at the airports, even at hotel-reservation
counters, may try to trick you into booking a hotel room by claiming
that your prior reservation is invalid. Ignore them.
If this is your first trip to India an arrival transfer is
recommended. If you have paid for an arrival transfer when you booked
your trip our driver/local operator will be waiting for you with a sign with your name on it. Please check carefully once you
exit the baggage hall as there seem to be hundreds of people waiting
outside in the arrival area. Our operator for Airport transfers is Sita
Travels. Their contact is Mr. Amit Singh Jamwal and his mobile number is
(+91) 9560001388. The office number is (+91-124) 4703000.
Arrival Complications
We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if
for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as
soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting
that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader (if you are
not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details
provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your
leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have
pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our
representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we
recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel,
following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on
your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
What to Take
What you need to bring depends on the trip you have
chosen and the countries or regions you are planning to visit. We
suggest that you pack as lightly as possible as you are expected to
carry your own luggage. As a rule we try not to have to walk more than
15-20 minutes with your bag which is why we recommend keeping the weight
of your bags between 10-15kg/22-30lb. Suitcases are not recommended for our trips! Most travellers carry a backpack or rolling bag of
small to medium size (no XXL ones please!) as they need to fit under the
beds when travelling on sleeper trains. You will also need a day
pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other electronics like ipods and
mobile phones. If your trip involves overnights in home stays, villages
or camping then you usually have the opportunity to rent sleeping bags
if need be instead of bringing them with you.
Checklist
Passport (with photocopies)
Travel insurance (with photocopies)
Airline tickets (with photocopies)
USD cash and travellers cheques
Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
Vouchers, pre-departure information and dossier
Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
Day pack for daily personal items
Lock for all bags
Wet wipes / Moist towelettes
Alarm clock
Flashlight
Sun hat, Sun block, Sunglasses
Insect Repellent
Water bottle and Plastic mug for train journeys
Ear plugs for train journeys or light sleepers
Small towel and swim wear
Toiletries (biodegradable)
Sturdy walking shoes/Sport sandals
Money belt
Shorts
Long trousers
Hiking pants/track pants
Shirts/T-shirts
Warm clothes for November-February: fleece, jacket, hat and gloves, warm layers
Umbrella or waterproof jacket.
Cover for backpack or plastic bags to keep clothes dry.
Camera and film
Reading/writing material
Binoculars
Pocketknife
First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids,
anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea,
re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking).
Laundry
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a
charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own
laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Visas
Please note that visas for India are the responsibility
of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary
depending on where you are from and where you are going. For the most up
to date information please check your governments’ foreign ministry
website or with you travel agent as rules do change. It is important
that you check for yourself. For most travellers there is probably an
embassy and or consulate in the country that you live in.
Standard Indian tourist visas are good for 6 months with multiple
entry and exits. VISA IS NOT AVAILABLE AT PORT OF ENTRY AND must be
obtained in advance.
Please note that the Indian government has recently made some
changes to visa regulation due to misuse of the Tourist visa. We
encourage all passengers to contact the Indian consulate or embassy in
their home country to get up to date information on entry requirements.
This is especially important for those that are planning on entering
India multiple times in a two month period.
Foreigners holding a Tourist Visas, who after initial entry into
India plan to visit neighboring Nepal, Bhutan or Sri Lanka and then
re-enter into India within 2 months need to get special authorization.
a) If you are already in India you must register with FRRO (Foreign Regional Registration office).
b) If you are still outside of India you must advise consulate or
embassy at time of visa application of your plans. You will need to
provide supporting documents which includes airline tickets.
If you are departing India to visit a non-neighboring country (all
countries other than Nepal, Bhutan or Sri Lanka) and plan to return to
India within a 2 month period you may not be able to re-enter.
Detailed Trip Notes
In India English is widely spoken and transportation and
infrastructure is good, but please remember that this is India- expect
the unexpected! If you are able to bring with you a lot of patience, a
great sense of humour and a willingness to try and interact with the
local people, your travel experience wil be greatly enhanced.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money
requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others
while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please
consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks,
shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific
recommendations when planning your trip.
Money Exchange
As currency exchange rates in Asia fluctuate often we ask
that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates:
www.xe.com As of Feb 2012 the exchange rate for INDIA was 1 USD = 49.00
INR (Indian Rupees). There are many ATM machines that accept both Visa
and Mastercard but these are limited to major cities. Major credit cards
are accepted in most shops but they may charge a 2-4% transaction fee.
Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an
additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used
when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a
change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
Departure Tax
All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket.
Tipping
It is customary in Asia to tip service providers such as
waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is
expected - though not compulsory - and shows an expression of
satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour.
Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable
significance to the people who will take care of you during your
travels. There are several times during the trip where there is
opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. You may do this
individually, or your CEO will offer to collect the money and tip as a
group. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range
from USD1-2 per person per day depending on the quality and length of
the service; ask your tour leader for specific recommendations based on
the circumstances and culture. Also at the end of each trip if you felt
your CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated.
The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline
USD20-25 per person, per week can be used.
Optional Activities
We suggest you bring along USD40 for additional sightseeing including
Delhi - Red Fort - INR250
Delhi - Qutab Minar - INR250
Delhi - Humayuns Tomb - INR250
Agra - Akbar's Mausoleum - INR235
Agra - Nature Park – INR50
Jaipur - Raj Mandir Cinema - INR90
Jaipur – Elephant Ride (Amber Palace Fort) – INR960 per elephant(max 2 persons)
Keoladeo National Park - Entrance INR400, Cycle Rickshaw INR100 per hour, Bicycle INR100 (2 hours)
All prices are per person (unless stated otherwise), and are subject
to change as services are provided by third party operators.
Health
Please note inoculations may be required for the country
visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor
for up to date medical travel information well before departure.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel
information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First
Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any
personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in
remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our
leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including
headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In Asia pharmacies tend to stock the
same western drugs as you get at home but they are usually produced
locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to
purchase a prescription drug. When selecting your trip please carefully
read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our
style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings
for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to
exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in
the reasonable opinion of our group leader they are unable to complete
the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the
group.
Safety and Security
Many national governments provide a regularly updated
advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We
recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest
travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a
neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your
passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable
items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while
travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which
is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended
for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note
that your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip
itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your CEO
will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will
have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it
easy or explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with
options available in a given location please note that any optional
activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no
representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the
operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when
selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on
tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering
throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay
in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during
night time excursions.
Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those
that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no
warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security
forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time.
If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering,
avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave
the area immediately.
Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement
built into them. We recommend only participating in water based
activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable
effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based
activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards)
have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our
CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that
are not accompanied by guide(s).
Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk.
We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety.
Trip Specific Safety
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money
belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air
tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your
valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of
the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes which is the most secure
way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your
luggage
A Couple of Rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips.
Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but
also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a
part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable
for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards
everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the
world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is
completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel
any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if
they use prostitutes.
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in
order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group
trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of
travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of
your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please
bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we
require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency
rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal
liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal
effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase
of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in
your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer,
the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Responsible Travel
Being a responsible tour operator is at the heart of what our partner is all about. From the start, our partner has been
committed to offering low-impact tours that benefit traveler and host
alike. While our sustainable tourism policies are constantly evolving,
our commitment to socially conscious, grassroots style travel has never
changed. We work with local communities, businesses and individuals to
develop sustainable tourism opportunities that help local economies
while minimizing negative environmental and cultural impacts.
We would like to give you a couple of tips to start you thinking about traveling sustainably.
-Please bring rechargeable batteries, a battery charger (and plug
adapter if necessary). Batteries are incredibly toxic and many places
that we travel do not have proper disposal facilities. Rechargeables
are best but if this is not possible we recommend that you bring any
used batteries back home with you for proper disposal.
-Please ask before taking pictures. Just as you would not like to
have a stranger come up to you and take a picture of you while sitting
on your front porch either do the locals of the places that we visit.
As you can imagine pictures of their children are also not appreciated.
Planeterra Foundation
Through our partners' commitment to responsible tourism they have
developed the Planeterra Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated
to making a positive difference in the lives of people and communities
around the world through support of international charities, local
organizations and community projects in the places that we visit on our
tours. Our partner matches all individual donations and pays all
administration costs, which means that 100% of each donation is doubled
and goes directly to support our projects. For more information about
Planeterra and the projects we support, or to make a donation, please
visit www.planeterra.org
Planeterra Dollar-A-Day Program
The Dollar-A-Day Program provides travellers with the opportunity to
help us give back to the people and places visited on our tours by
donating one dollar per day for the duration of their tour. 100% of
these proceeds will go directly to support our Planeterra projects.
To participate in this program please indicate at the time of
booking that you would like to participate in G Adventures’ Dollar-A-Day
program, either by clicking the check box online, or by advising your specialist or travel agent. (Note: Donation will be charged
in the currency of your booking)
Local Dress
In Asia the dress standard is more conservative than it
is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing
that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of Asian
summers. In predominately Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim countries we ask
that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and
singlets/tanktops when visiting small rural communities or visiting
temples or mosques or other holy sites as this may restrict your entry.
India is very conservative and you should dress accordingly. As a
general guideline shoulders and knees should be covered at all times.
The wearing of shorts is not allowed as it will restrict your entry into
buildings of a religious nature and family homes. A light water and
windproof jacket is useful and a hat essential.
NB: WE STRESS THAT IT CAN BE VERY COLD IN THE HILLS DURING THE MONTHS FROM DECEMBER TO FEBRUARY.
NB: During our trip there will be many opportunities for you to meet
and "talk" with locals. One way to start any conversation is with
pictures. We recommend that you bring some photos/postcards of your
family, home, city or country where you live, animals peculiar to your
country etc.
Feedback
After your travels, we want to hear from you!
Keeping in Touch
If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend
that you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road,
rather than relying on postal mail. Email cafes are becoming
increasingly commonplace and cheap throughout the regions we visit, and
have quickly become the preferred way for our CEOs and travellers to
stay in touch. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while
you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local
booking agent, or refer to our Emergency Contact. We recommend that
family and friends don't try to contact you through phoning hotels en
route, as our hotels are subject to change, and our hotel receptions
often don't have English speaking staff.
DepEnd
DEPARTS SUN WEEKLY
Highlights
Cultural journeys, modern and ancient Delhi, Mughal
magnificence of the Taj and Fatephur Sikri, rural villages, historical
forts.