Explore Heritage India – one of the leading travel agents in India offers information in tours and travels in India trips details document which 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 Explore Heritage India. 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 travelers, 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 Feb. 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.
Validity: Valid for all trips departing Feb 1st, 2009 - Dec 31st 2010.
Back To Index
Trip Style:
Diamond:
* [Accomodation + Transfer by luxury car(A.C.)] & Coach(A.C.) + Sight seeing in (A.C.) Car & Coach(A.C.) + Breakfast]
* Including [Language Escort + Local Guide + Local Vendor's + Entry Fee in Historical Monuments ]
* Including one complimentry Dinner on last night before Departure
* Including [Elephant Riding + Camel Safari + Jeep Safari] should
depend on Itinerary
Local Taxes & VAT should be payable
* Cost of Tour depands upon quality of Accomodation, Transport &
Escort Tour
* Local Flight Ticket Cost should be payable
* Air Ticket cost should be extra
* If international Air Ticket Reservation also include, cost of tour
sholud be increase.
* Map & Itinerary will provide to Driver, Customer, Escort & Vandors.
Ruby:
* [Accomodation + Transfer by luxury car(A.C.)] & Coach(A.C.) + Sight seeing in (A.C.) Car & Coach(A.C.) + Breakfast]
* Including [Language Escort + Local Guide + Local Vendor's + Entry Fee in Historical Monuments ]
* Including one complimentry Dinner on last night before Departure
* Including [Elephant Riding + Camel Safari + Jeep Safari] should depend on Itinerary
Local Taxes & VAT should be payable
* Cost of Tour depands upon quality of Accomodation, Transport & Escort Tour
* Local Flight Ticket Cost should be payable
* Air Ticket cost should be extra
* If international Air Ticket Reservation also include, cost of tour sholud be increase.
* Map & Itinerary will provide to Driver, Customer, Escort & Vandors.
Emerald:
* [Accomodation + Transfer by luxury car(A.C.)] & Coach(A.C.) + Sight seeing in (A.C.) Car & Coach(A.C.) + Breakfast]
* Including [Language Escort + Local Guide + Local Vendor's + Entry Fee in Historical Monuments ]
* Including one complimentry Dinner on last night before Departure
* Including [Elephant Riding + Camel Safari + Jeep Safari] should depend on Itinerary
Local Taxes & VAT should be payable
* Cost of Tour depands upon quality of Accomodation, Transport & Escort Tour
* Local Flight Ticket Cost should be payable
* Air Ticket cost should be extra
* If international Air Ticket Reservation also include, cost of tour sholud be increase.
* Map & Itinerary will provide to Driver, Customer, Escort & Vandors.
Gold:
* [Accomodation + Transfer by luxury car(A.C.)] & Coach(A.C.) + Sight seeing in (A.C.) Car & Coach(A.C.) + Breakfast]
* Including [Language Escort + Local Guide + Local Vendor's + Entry Fee in Historical Monuments ]
* Including one complimentry Dinner on last night before Departure
* Including [Elephant Riding + Camel Safari + Jeep Safari] should depend on Itinerary
Local Taxes & VAT should be payable
* Cost of Tour depands upon quality of Accomodation, Transport & Escort Tour
* Local Flight Ticket Cost should be payable
* Air Ticket cost should be extra
* If international Air Ticket Reservation also include, cost of tour sholud be increase.
* Map & Itinerary will provide to Driver, Customer, Escort & Vandors.
Silver:
* [Accomodation + Transfer by luxury car(A.C.)] & Coach(A.C.) + Sight seeing in (A.C.) Car & Coach(A.C.) + Breakfast]
* Including [Language Escort + Local Guide + Local Vendor's + Entry Fee in Historical Monuments ]
* Including one complimentry Dinner on last night before Departure
* Including [Elephant Riding + Camel Safari + Jeep Safari] should depend on Itinerary
Local Taxes & VAT should be payable
* Cost of Tour depands upon quality of Accomodation, Transport & Escort Tour
* Local Flight Ticket Cost should be payable
* Air Ticket cost should be extra
* If international Air Ticket Reservation also include, cost of tour sholud be increase.
* Map & Itinerary will provide to Driver, Customer, Escort & Vandors.
Budget:
* [Accomodation + Transfer by luxury car(A.C.)] & Coach(A.C.) + Sight seeing in (A.C.) Car & Coach(A.C.) + Breakfast]
* Including [Language Escort + Local Guide + Local Vendor's + Entry Fee in Historical Monuments ]
* Including one complimentry Dinner on last night before Departure
* Including [Elephant Riding + Camel Safari + Jeep Safari] should depend on Itinerary
Local Taxes & VAT should be payable
* Cost of Tour depands upon quality of Accomodation, Transport & Escort Tour
* Local Flight Ticket Cost should be payable
* Air Ticket cost should be extra
* If international Air Ticket Reservation also include, cost of tour sholud be increase.
* Map & Itinerary will provide to Driver, Customer, Escort & Vandors.
Back To Index
Physical Rating:
Each
trip is rated based on physical demands. This rating will help you to
choose a trip that is suitable to your level of fitness and maximize
your enjoyment.

- You will have to get around on your own, up and down hotel steps and carry your own bag.

- Light walking and hiking that is suitable for most fitness levels.

- May include moderate
hiking, biking, rafting, kayaking and other activities that require
only an average/moderate level of fitness to enjoy.

- May include high altitude hiking of up to 8 hours/day or other activities that require a moderately high level of fitness.

- High altitude trekking or cycling, suitable for those with a high level of fitness and endurance.
Please note: Many trips include only one 'Physical
Grading' element that may increase the overall rating of a trip to a
higher level. You can choose not to participate in these activities.
For specific trip information, refer to the Trip Details document, or
contact our sales department.
Back To Index
Back To Index
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 with Explore Heritage India 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 humour, 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 Explore Heritage India. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may
have previously been traveling together with Explore Heritage India, prior to
Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be
continuing together on another Explore Heritage India tour, after your trip
concludes.
Back To Index
All Explore
Heritage India group trips are accompanied by one of our group
leaders. The aim of the group leader 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.
Back To Index
Back To Index
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.
Back To Index
Back To Index
Eating
is a big part of travelling. Travelling with Explore Heritage India 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
Back To Index
Transportation: Train, metro, local bus, charter bus, jeep, cycle-rickshaw, auto-rickshaw, plane.
Back To Index
TRAIN
Traveling in India by train is an experience. Distances in India are
long and Indian trains aren't the worlds best, but traveling in these
adds a fascinating new dimension to a visitor's experience in the
country. There is virtually no better way to get to make friends with
the people and see the spectacular views of the diverse Indian
countryside. The chaos on the Indian Railway stations is a replica of
the life in India.
Explore Heritage India uses 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, and sometimes it's hours rather than minutes. Make sure you have
something to occupy your time – a good book, magazine or photos of your
home country and family to show the Indian travelers also waiting for
the train.
ROAD
Traveling by road 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! Although the government is investing large sums
of money improving the road infrastructure, there is a lot more to be
done. As a result some of the roads are poorly maintained, pot holed
and uneven. This gets even more pronounced particularly during and
after the monsoon. Travel time is very long in comparison to Western
countries and short distances can take a lot longer than at home.
Back To Index
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.
Back To Index
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 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.
Back To Index
My Own Room: Please
note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for these tours,
you will receive your own single room for all night stops, with the
following exceptions:
Hotels:
Back To Index
Accommodation: Simple hotels/guesthouses (13 nts), sleeper train (1 nts).
Back To Index
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.
Back To Index
Joining Hotel: New Delhi – Hotel Pablas International
12 A / 22, W.E.A., Saraswati Marg,
Karol Bagh, New Delhi
Phone : +(91) - (11) - 4250 2509, 4250 2760
Our hotel is a small hotel located in Karol Bagh market area and
surrounded by a mix of local vendors, shops and restaurants, including
a number of western ones (McDonalds and Pizza Hut). It is only a 10
minutes journey on the new Metro system (cost INR 9) or 20 minutes by
auto rickshaw (INR 30-40 with bargaining) to get to the heart of New
Delhi, Connaught Place.
All shopping/market areas in Delhi close on different days of the week.
Karol Bagh shops close on a Monday and are replaced by yet more small
local vendors and stalls. Restaurants remain open.
Hotel Pablas International has a small enclosed roof top restaurant.
All rooms have a/c and cable TV. Safety lockers are located in
reception. There is internet in the hotel. The hotel offers 24hr room
service and luggage storage is available.
Back To Index
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 Explore Heritage India
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. Explore Heritage India- Their contact is Ms.. Renu Parmar and her mobile number
is











(+91) 9314034990 
. The office number is











(+91) 9314254990 
.
Back To Index
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.
Back To Index
Emergency Contact: Should
you need to contact Explore Heritage India during a situation of dire need,
it is best to first call our local office. If for any reason you do not
receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and
contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as
soon as possible.
Back To Index
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 your are expected to carry your own luggage. As
a rule we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 mintues with your
bags which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between
10-15kg/22-30lb. Suitcases are not recommended for Explore Heritage India
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 homestays, villages or
camping then you usually have the opportunity to rent sleeping bags if
need be instead of bringing them with you.
Back To Index
Passport (with photocopies)
Travel insurance (with photocopies)
Airline tickets (with photocopies)
USD cash and travellers cheques
Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
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
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).
Back To Index
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.
Back To Index
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 will probably have an
embassy and consulate in the country that you live in.
Standard Indian tourist visas are good for 6 months with multiple entry
and exits. They are not available at port of entry AND must be obtained
in advance.
Back To Index
Countries/Regions of This Trip:
Destination Guide: For
practical information on weather, typical costs, visa information,
special events and much more, our Destination Guide is the place to
visit! This handy guide will tell you everything you need to know about
everywhere we go! Head to for detailed information on the countries and cities we visit.
Back To Index
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.
Back To Index
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 September 2008, the exchange rate for INDIA was 1 USD = 46.36 INR
(Indian Rupees). There are many ATM machines that accept both Visa and
Mastercard but these are limited to major cities. We also recommend the
use of cash and travellers cheques in USD currency. Major credit cards
are accepted in most shops but they may charge a 2-4% transaction fee.
Back To Index
Meal Budget: Allow €20-40/per day for meals if not mentioned in package. For additional expenses, see trip details.
Back To Index
Local Payment:
Most
of our adventure tours involve a local payment. This is the final
payment of your tour price, paid locally. Paying locally facilitates
the flow of funds into countries that we travel through and also helps
to reduce the overall price of the tour. This helps Explore Heritage India
keep our prices competitive and in-turn, pass our cost savings onto
you. Payment is to be made to your leader or G.A.P Adventures
representative upon arrival in cash in the requested currency. Please
see our website, brochure or your trip documents and invoice for Local
Payment.
Back To Index
Emergency Fund: Please
also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD200 (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!
Back To Index
Departure Tax: All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket.
Back To Index
Tipping: It
is customary in Asia to tip service providers such as waiters, at
approximately 10% to 15%, 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 Tour Leader will
offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for
tipping drivers and local guides would range from USD2-3 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 Heritage India
Tour Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount
is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline USD15-20 per
person, per week can be used.
Back To Index
We suggest you bring along USD80 for additional sightseeing including
Delhi - Red Fort - INR100
Delhi - Qutab Minar - INR250
Delhi - Humayuns Tomb - INR250
Agra - Taj Mahal - INR750
Agra - Fort- INR250
Agra - Akbar's Mausoleum - INR235
Agra - I’timad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj) – INR100
Agra - Nature Park – INR50
Fatehpur Sikri - Monument – INR485
Goa – Old Churches – INR50
Goa – Spice tour and lunch (excl transport) – INR400
Jaipur - City Palace - INR300
Jaipur - Raj Mandir Cinema - INR90
Jaipur - Amber Palace Fort - INR150
Jaipur – Elephant Ride (Amber Palace Fort) – INR570 per elephant (Max 2 persons)
Jaipur - Jantar Mantar - INR100
Mumbai – Boat to Elephanta Island – INR100
Mumbai – Elephanta Cave – INR250
Udaipur - Lake Pichola Boat ride - INR150
Udaipur - City Palace - INR35
Udaipur - Kumhbalgarh Fort – INR100
Udaipur - Bagore-Ki Haveli, West Centre Cultural Show – INR60
Udaipur - Cooking Class - INR500
Udaipur - Ayurvedic Massage – INR1000
Back To Index
Health: You
should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information
well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit 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. For
travellers over 70 years a completed Medical Form is required. Heritage India 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.
Back To Index
Safety and Security:
Please read the following most recent updates
Mumbai Shootings |
Travel to India
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 group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of
the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns.
Your leader 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 group leader
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 judgement 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.
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.
Back To Index
Medical Form: Our
small group adventures bring together people of all ages. It is very
important you are aware that, as a minimum, an average level of fitness
and mobility' is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travellers
must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4
flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own
luggage at a minimum. Travellers with a pre-existing medical condition
are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be
signed by their physician. This is to ensure that travellers have the
necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen
trip. While our leaders work hard to ensure that all our travellers are
catered for equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals
who cannot complete the day's activities unaided. Please refer to the
physical ratings in this Trip Details document for more information.
Please note that all passengers traveling to Antarctica are required to fill out this questionnaire.
Back To Index
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 Explore Heritage India
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 group leader has the right to expel
any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or they
use prostitutes.
Back To Index
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
leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a
travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered
for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. 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.
Back To Index
Responsible Travel: Being
a responsible tour operator is at the heart of what Explore Heritage India is
all about. From the start, Explore Heritage India 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.
Back To Index
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.
In Pakistan we recommend a head scarf for women while walking around.
In northern India between middle of December to end of February, night
time temperatures can be low, so bring a set of warmer clothes. Thermal
underclothes, being small and light, can be very useful.
Back To Index
Feedback: After
your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so
important to us that you'll receive a special discount code for free
online prints and we'll give you 5% off the price of your next Explore Heritage India trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of
finishing your trip.
Back To Index
Newsletter: Our
adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information,
interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special
offers and updates from Explore Heritage India.
Back To Index
We Want Your Photos: If
you've got some great photos form your Explore Heritage India travels, then
post them online in our community! You can share photos - and videos -
with our travellers from around the world. Simply go online to check out what other people have shared! We often have photo and
video contests running too, so be sure to check our website often!
Back To Index
Free Online Trip Journals: An online Trip Journal is a great way to record stories and photos as you travel, not to
mention sharing your experiences with friends. Encourage your family
and friends to follow in your footsteps as you explore the world! With
templates for over 300 Explore Heritage India trips already online all you
have to do to get started is log in, choose your trip and your
departure date, it's quick and easy!
Back To Index
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 leaders 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.
Back To Index
We have to inform you that following information applies to all visitors entering India through the any international airport.
1.Travel Documents: :-
On arrival in India you must produce a valid national passport or other documents satisfactorily establishing your identity
and nationality. Indian Visa from the visa consulate in your country.