Highlights |
Guided Package Includes
- Round trip flights NYC-Delhi
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices
- Airline fuel surcharges
- 5 nights Deluxe and Superior First Class accommodations
- All transfers
- 6 meals: 5 breakfasts, 1 dinner
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of an English-speaking local guide
- Entrance fees per itinerary
Special Features
- Taj Mahal
- Elephant-back ride to Amber Fort
Also Available
|
|
Itinerary |
|
 DAY 1, Wednesday - Depart the USA
Depart the USA for India. Your flight includes meals, drinks and in-flight entertainment
DAY 2, Thursday - Arrive in Delhi
Arrive in Delhi and transfer to your hotel. Balance of the day at leisure
Overnight: Delhi
DAY 3, Friday - Delhi City Tour, Travel to Agra
This morning, enjoy a tour of Old Delhi, an ancient historical city with more than 60,000 identifiable monuments. Visit the Memorial of Mahatma Gandhi , view the Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, and the famous Red Fort. Later, in New Delhi you’ll see the Birla Temple, the India Gate, the Parliament House and the Presidential Palace. In the afternoon, continue to Agra
Overnight: Agra
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4, Saturday - Taj Mahal
This morning, visit the Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved Queen Mumtaj Mahal. This monumental construction, which took 22 years to complete (1631-53), is most famous for its imposing white-marble dome, and is considered the finest example of Mughal architecture in the world. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure
Optional: Half Day Agra City Tour
Overnight: Agra
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5, Sunday - Travel to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri
Travel to Jaipur via the deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri. Here you will view the Bulund Darwaza, which is said to be the tallest gateway in the world. Explore the well-preserved buildings of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the Panch Mahal Palace and 17th-century Jama Masjid, one of the largest and most impressive in India. Continue to Jaipur, the famed Pink City of India. The entire city was painted its unique pink color in 1876 to celebrate the visiting Prince of Wales. While the color pink was originally chosen to mimic the red sandstone used prominently in Mughal architecture, it has come to represent the welcoming hospitality of Jaipur
Overnight: Jaipur
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 6, Monday - Elephant Ride to Amber Fort
This morning's excursion takes you to the 16th century Amber Fort. Ascend the hill to the fort on the back of an elephant and admire views of Jaipur's original city walls and the Maotha Lake below. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in Jaipur. You may choose, on your own, to see the massive City Palace or stroll through the delightful gardens dotting the city. For a more lively scene, independently visit the city's colorful bazaar, filled with vendors selling everything from sacks of spices to personal electronics and flowers
Optional: Half Day Jaipur City Tour
Overnight: Jaipur
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 7, Tuesday - Jaipur, Delhi
This morning, enjoy time at leisure in Jaipur. Drive to Delhi in the afternoon. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local Delhi restaurant. After dinner, transfer to the airport for your departure flight which leaves after midnight
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 8, Wednesday - Arrive USA
Return to USA
|
|
|
Optionals |
|
Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling cost at least 10% more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
|
| Half Day Agra City Tour |
Day #4 |
01 Oct 2009 - 30 Apr 2010 $50
|
|
Today, enjoy an afternoon visit to Agra Fort, the original red sandstone fort built by Moghul Emperor Akbar in 1565. The Fort's maze of courtyards, marble mosque, and lavish private chambers reflect the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. Also visit the Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah "a jewel box in marble". This mausoleum was built by the Empress Nur Jahan as a gesture of love for her father. The tomb is built of the finest Indian marble embellished with mosaics and beautiful inlay work of semi precious stones. The central chamber contains the yellow marble tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah and his wife. The tomb is painted with floral decorations, and fine marble screens of geometric latticework suffuse the interior in a soft light. Based on its layout, inlay designs, and detailed latticework, the mausoleum is often considered an imminent precursor to the Taj Mahal.
|
| Half Day Jaipur City Tour |
Day #6 |
01 Oct 2009 - 30 Apr 2010 $50
|
|
This afternoon, enjoy a city tour of Jaipur. First, visit the unique Jantar Mantar, which is a magnificent stone observatory built by Raja Jai Singh in 1728 and drive past the Hawa Mahal, an intriguing "Palace of Winds." This was really a facade built in 1799, to allow royal ladies to view the city from the windows. Later, visit the opulent City Palace. This was the former royal residence built in a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal style which has grand museums displaying an excellent collection of miniature paintings, costumes and armory.
|
|
|
Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling cost at least 10% more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
|
|
Rates & Hotels |
Step 1: Select Your Featured Hotels Step 2: Click a Date to Book Online
OR: Click here to create your own flexible vacation
|
*Not Included:
Airport taxes & fees, optional tours, and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Please note that the included return flight departs Delhi for NYC shortly after midnight. For passengers travelling on flights departing later in the morning or afternoon on Day 8, an additional night in Delhi should be reserved
Entry Requirements:
US citizens require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates.
|
|
| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. | |
| Passports and Visas | It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies.
|
Entry Requirements:
US citizens require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates.
|
| Trip Preparation | A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you’ll need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas) are in order and that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip.
| | Health Information | Check with your personal physician for the latest overseas travel health information, or contact the Center for Disease Control’s travelers’ hotline at 404-332-4559, web site www.cdc.gov.
| India and Nepal - No inoculations are required. However, some inoculations are recommended. Please consult your physician before traveling to India. Also, please be aware that authentic Indian cuisine can be difficult to digest for those who are not accustomed to it.
| | Climate & Clothing | India and Nepal - Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).
India has three seasons. November through March is generally pleasant, with warm, sunny days. It is hot in May and June. Monsoon season usually begins around June on the west coast and slightly later elsewhere. Southern India receives rainfall between mid-October and December. Nepal has four seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
India Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/asia-pacific/#india-nepal-weather
Nepal Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/asia-pacific/#india-nepal-weather
|
| E-tickets | Most airlines now require that we provide e-tickets in place of paper tickets. At check-in, you should be ready to provide your e-ticket itinerary and ticket numbers, as well as identification (valid passport) to the agent. In a few cases where e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive your tickets in a paper form.
| | Airline Flights | Please check in at least three hours prior to the scheduled departure time to allow for security steps. Passengers connecting from another point within the USA may check their luggage through to their final destination, and although problems with lost luggage have been minimal, it is a possibility. Certain carriers do not allow baggage “interlining,” and luggage must be checked separately for each flight. If you are connecting from a domestic flight which is delayed for any reason, causing you to miss your international flight, you must ask the airline for assistance in getting you to your destination. Since all airline tickets are issued on special fares which carry restrictions and penalties if changed, you must have the airlines responsible make alternate arrangements on your behalf as Gate 1 has no authority or control over airline activities and policies. Do not leave the airline check-in desk until an alternative itinerary has been confirmed for you.
Flight schedule changes are common and may occur anytime until departure. Therefore it is the responsibility of each passenger to reconfirm their flights 72 hours prior to departure for all flights.
| | Airline Luggage Restrictions | Most international airlines are consistent with regard to the number and weight of the pieces you may check and bring onboard. Domestic carriers however, typically on small aircraft, differ. Therefore, we suggest that you check in advance if you are concerned about size or weight restrictions. Many airlines have begun to apply charges for checked bags. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline's checked baggage policies. Airline policies vary and may change at any time. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for any excess luggage/ weight charges levied by an airline.
| | Airline Seats | Airline seats are confirmed whenever possible. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only. Even when seats are pre-assigned however, we recommend that you contact the carrier one to two weeks prior to departure to reconfirm your seats. In many cases there are equipment changes after your initial booking which can cause airplane seating reconfiguration.
| | Airline Tickets | Most airline tickets are issued using special fares which cannot be changed or canceled without incurring additional cost. Should you lose or misplace your tickets while traveling, you should immediately notify the airline. In most cases they will have you complete a Lost Ticket Indemnity Form, and for a fee, issue replacement tickets.
| | Code-share Flights | Many airlines participate in alliances and special agreements with other airlines which permit passengers to travel from one point to another using more than one carrier. While your ticket may indicate that you are flying with one carrier (eg: Delta), you may find that you are actually seated in a plane belonging to another carrier (eg: Alitalia). Please review your airline itinerary carefully to determine which airline you should go to for check-in; if your flight is operated by a carrier other than the primary airline indicated on the itinerary, your itinerary will state "Flight Operated by (Airline)." If you have any concerns regarding which airline to check-in with, you may contact the airline directly or Gate 1 Travel for clarification.
| | Luggage | All Gate 1 tour packages allow one piece of luggage per person, plus carry-on bag. Additional baggage will be subject to airline handling charges of up to $100 per piece. As Gate 1 will not be responsible for loss or damage to luggage and personal belongings, you MUST report any loss or damage immediately at the time of the incident and obtain a written report from the local authority for submission to your insurance provider. If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form MUST be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. See www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx for Important Baggage Information for U.S. Travelers.
|
| Arrival Procedures | Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher.
| | What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed | Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, overseas or in the USA, the better we can respond. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon your return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services.
| | Departure Procedures | If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally.
| | Transfers | Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date.
Escorted tour programs include transfers, providing you have purchased airfare from Gate 1 to arrive and depart on the scheduled tour dates. If you are traveling independently, you may purchase the transfers from Gate 1 or contract your own method of transportation to the hotel or cruise ship. The cost of a transfer will generally be more expensive than hiring a taxi as the pre-arranged transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or a 'dead-leg'. Additionally the driver may have to wait at the collection point for up to an hour.
|
| Hotels | | Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard rooms with two single beds and private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. Room selection is strictly at the discretion of the hotel management. We reserve the right to make hotel substitutions with those of equal standard. | | Hotel Check-in/ Check-out | | Check-in time is usually 4pm or later. Check-out time is 12 noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism | We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel to and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs.
| | Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) | Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for checkin. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents.
| | Shopping | Shopping in a foreign country can be a wonderful experience. We do include a few stops at recommended popular shops on every escorted tour, intended to enhance your cultural experience. As you explore the country independently, you may find fantastic, one-of-a-kind merchandise. You may get terrific bargains. However, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!
| India and Nepal - Local handicrafts, silks, and replicas of ancient statues and artifacts are among the most popular items.
| | Currency | We suggest getting a small amount of currency for the first country you're visiting before you leave the U.S. It is a good idea to carry a chart with you to help you convert U.S. dollars to the local currency. It's also a good idea not to carry too much money. Many countries have ATM machines that accept most U.S. ATM cards, but be sure you know your ATM password in numbers-the keypads on foreign ATMs don't always have letters. ATM machines will only dispense cash in local currency. Check with respective consulates to learn current currency allowances and requirements. Use your credit card whenever possible. Should you decide to carry cash or travelers checks, exchange them at banks where the rate is more favorable than at hotels or exchange bureaus.
| India and Nepal - The Indian Rupee is the currency of India. The Nepalese Rupee is the currency of Nepal.
| | Purchasing Tours Locally |
On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them.
Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below.
This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information.
http://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional
| | Credit Cards | While credit cards are accepted in most destinations, it is advisable to carry local currency. Inform your credit card company that you are traveling to avoid your card being blocked for security reasons.
| | Gratuities | This is a matter of personal discretion. You may use the following as a guideline:
- Tour escort (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide):
$6 or $7 per person per day - *Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage):
$3 per person per day - *Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program):
$2 per person per half day of sightseeing (2-3 hours) - *River Cruises:
$6 or $7 per person per day as indicated by each cruise line (see details regarding European River Cruises) - *Private car tours(small groups of 2-14 passengers):
$12 to $16 per person per day for each day of sightseeing - *Hotel Porter:
$1 per bag per person - *Wait staff:
$1.50 per person (lunch or dinner) - *Chamber maid:
$1 per person per day
Tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour escort or phone our local office. Numbers have been provided in your documents for your convenience.
| | Itinerary - India & Nepal | | Some days involve long distances driving in the coach. The drive between Delhi and Agra is approximately 5 hours. The drive between Delhi and Jaipur is approximately 6 hours. The drive between Agra and Jaipur is approximately 7 hours. Roads are generally not up to Western standards and may be very rough in some areas. For coaches, speed is limited to 40km/h due to poor road conditions and heavy traffic. There are no emergency bathrooms on the coaches in India. | | Your Safety is Very Important | Every effort has been taken by Gate 1 Travel to ensure your safety. However, it is important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while you're on your trip. Be aware of potentially dangerous places and situations as you would at home. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carry your valuables concealed in inside pockets or hidden pouches. Don't put all your valuables (money, credit cards, passports, etc.) in the same place. (In case that one wallet is stolen, you should have other valuables and identification in another safe place.) Don't leave valuables laying loose in your room-use the hotel safe. Keep copies of your passports, credit card numbers and travelers checks numbers in the hotel safe. If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities.
| | Local Emergency Phone Numbers | India
- Ambulance: 102
- Fire: 101
- Police: 100
Nepal
- Ambulance: 228094
- Police: 100
| | Languages | India and Nepal - Language and dialect varies by region. English is generally spoken in tourist areas.
| | Electricity | Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances.
| India and Nepal - The voltage used is 220 volts.
| | Code of Conduct | India and Nepal - Shaking hands is generally an appropriate greeting. Refrain from public displays of affection, as this can be seen as rude. In the event that you encounter people begging for alms, it is suggested that you do not give, as this often attracts the attention of many other alms-seekers. Many Indians are extremely friendly and may want to engage you in conversation. There are two sensitive topics it is generally recommended to avoid: any perceived negative economic conditions in the country and the issue of Pakistan.
| | Holidays - India and Nepal |
| Holidays 2009 |
| Jan 26 |
Republic Day |
| Feb |
Mahashivratri* |
| Feb/Mar |
Mahavir Jayanthi* |
Apr 10 |
Good Friday |
Apr 12 |
Easter |
Apr 13 |
Easter Monday |
May 2 |
Buddha Purnima |
Aug 15 |
Independence Day |
Sept |
Janmashtami |
Sept/Oct |
Dussehra (Vijaya Dashami)* |
Sept 20 - 21 |
Sep Id ul Fitr (End of Ramadan) |
Oct 2 |
Mahatma Ghandi's Birthday |
Oct 18 |
Deepavali or Diwali (Festival of Lights) |
Nov |
Guru Nanak's Birthday* |
Nov 27 - 28 |
Eid ul Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice) |
Dec 18 |
Muharram (Islamic New Year) |
Dec 25 |
Christmas Day |
Dec 26 |
Boxing Day |
|
| Nepal Holidays 2008 |
| Jan 15 |
Maghe Sankranti |
| Jan 30 |
Martyrs' Day |
Feb 11 |
Basanta Panchami |
Feb 19 |
Rashtriya Prajatantra Divas (National Democracy Day) |
Mar 6 |
Shivaratri (in honour of Lord Shiva) |
Mar 8 |
Nepalese Women's Day |
Mar 21 |
Holi/Chaite Dashain |
Apr 4 |
Ghode Jatra (Festival of Horses) |
Apr 13 |
Ram Nawami (Birthday of Lord Ram) |
Apr 14 |
Navabarsha (New Year's Day) |
May 20 |
Buddha Jayanti (Birthday of Lord Buddha) |
Aug 16 |
Rakshya Bandhan |
Sep 30 |
Ghatasthapana |
Oct 7 |
Maha Asthami |
Oct 8 |
Maha Nawam |
Oct 9 |
Vijaya Dashami |
Oct 28 |
Laxhmi Puja |
Oct 29 |
Gobardhan Puja |
Nov 9 |
Constitution Day |
|
| Holidays 2009 |
| Jan 30 |
Martyrs' Day |
Feb 19 |
Rashtriya Prajatantra Divas (National Democracy Day) |
Mar |
Ram Nawami (Birthday of Lord Ram)* |
Mar 6 |
Shivaratri (in honour of Lord Shiva) |
Mar 8 |
Nepalese Women's Day |
Mar/Apr |
Holi/Chaite Dashain* |
Apr 4 |
Ghode Jatra (Festival of Horses) |
Apr 14 |
Navabarsha (New Year's Day) |
May 2 |
Buddha Jayanti (Birthday of Lord Buddha) |
Aug |
Rakshya Bandhan* |
Aug/Sep |
Krishna Janmashtami* |
Sep |
Maha Asthami* |
Sep |
Maha Nawam* |
Sep |
Vijaya Dashami* |
Oct |
Laxhmi Puja* |
Oct |
Ghatasthapana* |
Oct |
Gobardhan Puja* |
Nov 9 |
Constitution Day |
|
|
*The exact date of these festivals has not yet been determined.
|
| Food | India and Nepal - While it is generally safe to eat fully cooked meats and vegetables, care should be taken to avoid undercooked meat and uncooked fruits and vegetables. Because tap water is not potable, visitors should only drink bottled water or water that has been boiled and filtered. Avoid ice, as it is usually made from tap water.
|
|
|
|