Discover India's Little Tibet and Nubra Valley

This trip is not for the faint hearted! The majority in my group were 'returners' to India and for me this was my third visit. Having visited various parts of India before was helpful in recognising the difference India's Little Tibet offers to the rest of India, geologically, culturally, socially and in its cuisine. The high altitudes were at times a little challenging for some but the reasonably slow acclimatisation to increased height was very helpful as we ascended the high mountain passes. Having never visited the Himalayas before or indeed many parts of the world higher than Snowdon (!), I found the scenery breath taking. The skill of our drivers in negotiating what must, at times, have been challenging roads to drive was exemplary. I always felt safe even in the presence of mountain rubble on the road side.

Accommodation at Alchi was substandard unclean and way below the all other hotels etc on the trip (hotel Zimskang). We were in the old wing of hotel for one night. This was clearly needing a complete overhaul and cleaning within it was way below a standard. The stairs to the first floor were marble with no handrails and had a big chip out the top step. On second night we were moved to the new wing (main hotel) the fabric of the building was 100% better however there was still cleaning issues. The bin in the room had not been emptied and general cleaning was not great. The visit to Alchi was well worth it however another hotel should be used and there were some in the village. This was main reason why I gave accommodation an average score this would have been good or above if it had not been for Hotel Zimskang.

When Air India cancelled all their flights on 24 June, Explore quickly got me an alternative flight with British Airways on the following day. I and another couple were picked up at Amritsar and taken straight to Dharamsala to join the rest of the group so we only lost one day of the trip. I can't thank Explore enough for their prompt action.

The itinerary was - overall - excellent although not necessarily according to the published programme. (We had a beautiful additional monastery but the art gallery was closed on the day we were to visit - clearly publicised as such!). We went to some wonderful places. The accommodation met our expectations. Our Tour leader kept us safe and was always polite but a) his communication of the detail of daily itineraries was poor b) he didn’t organise any optional group meals c) some facts he gave were not quite accurate! Our drivers were polite, safe and excellent.

Itinerary was exactly as stated. We had problems with flights as the air space had been closed down. Explore were outstanding in getting us alternative flights and we caught up with the group only a day late. Top marks explore.