Spiritual India - Foothills of the Himalaya

Unfortunately Harsh failed for me in several respects. He failed to be in position to meet a woman in our group travelling alone as he was busy having his breakfast as was pointed outed by a leader from another company. We had no welcome meeting or proper daily briefing meetings. He did not book a restaurant for our final meal. When speaking to the group outside the bus he always stared with some members behind him. We had no information about the Dalai Lama or Buddhism. The first and last hotels had little to recommend them. The others were of a much higher standard but were of international style and located away from local life so that eating in the hotels was the only option. Some of the group enjoyed the second trip to the Golden Temple but we did’t go in on either visit; I was told that it took 2 hours in the queue during the day. The “knee treatment” at one hotel seems to have cured a year old problem so far 6 weeks later.

It was a very congenial group--members got on well together and I really enjoyed meeting them all. The accommodation was excellent--a higher standard than on my previous seven or so visits to India with Explore. It was an interesting and I think well chosen itinerary, and helpful to have two nights in certain places, so that there was not a feeling of being rushed--appropriate for a trip entitled "Spiritual India". One needs time to absorb what one has seen and experienced and it allowed us to explore some places in greater depth. My highest praise goes to our Tour Leader, Satish Dhar. He was, I think, the best in all my trips with Explore--not just to India, but to Morocco and Russia as well. He was calm, never flustered, accessible and very well informed about everything we saw, and more besides. He encouraged questions and answered them expertly. In addition, while appearing relaxed, he kept a close eye on what was going on and ensured that the trip was problem-free. He genuinely seemed to enjoy being with us and helping us to understand more about India and its religions. It was a privilege to be in his group. The only downside was the condition of the bus's suspension. But the driver and his navigator were excellent, in often challenging road conditions. I felt in very safe hands.

Absolutely amazing trip. Learnt so much not only about some of the religions of India but due to our knowledgeable tour leader so much about the culture and food of India. Highlights of the trip was the aarti ceremony at Rishikesh and the most stunning Golden Temple at Amritsar.

Excellent trip in every respect. Our tour leader was very well informed and nothing was too much trouble for him never hurried.

An excellent tour with a fascinating mix of places and experiences, with the leader's local knowledge including some things we might otherwise have missed. Highlights: The Aarti at Rishikesh The Toy Train to Shimla First evening sight of the Golden Temple, then the privilege of rolling chapatis at the Langar the following morning.