Glossary of Experiences
HALF DAY AUTHENTIC RURAL EXPERIENCE WITH MEAL
Our father of nation said “the soul of India lives in its villages” So the visit of India is incomplete without visit to its villages. You will be amazed at the visit of a village. Village life is so simple yet colourful which resembles a white canvas sprinkled with multiple colours. The aroma of the soil, the freshness in the air, sweetness in the water, the calmness in the atmosphere and smile on the innocent faces of the villages will welcome you. You can experience local authentic cuisine at a village’s house. You will also get the opportunity to interact with the family members and to know their insight out of their life. They will be more than happy if you lend your hand in cooking or some other activities.
YOGA MEDITATION AT A NICE PLACE WITH NICE VIEW
India is the birth place of Yoga and Meditation and hence considered as spiritual guru of the world. Yoga has got international recognition and people from different religion and culture are embracing it with open arms. It offers peerless opportunity for physical, mental and spiritual nourishment. Apart from the closed door venue we have some excellent locations where you can practice yoga. Yoga session can be organized on the terrace overlooking a historical site, in the lawn, on the beaches, bank of rivers, ghats, beside backwater, in the temple complex, on the boat cruise, in the hill resort as well as wild life resort. You will feel rewarded, rejuvenated and empowered by doing yoga in a tranquil environment.
MEALS SPECIALTY TOUR
Meals specialty tour can be organized for the clients who are fond of Indian authentic cuisine. We have wide verities of foods like India food, Continental food, Mughlai food, Italian food, Maxican food, Chinese food and the list is endless. Almost all the states and regions in India have their own specialty food which is due to the usages of local spices, herbs, vegetables, fruits and cereals. For a real foodie it is recommended to visit famous restaurant of the town which are selling authentic food. Chicken Briyanai of Lucknow and Hyderabad, Rogan Josh of Kashmir, Litti Chokha of Bihar, Rasgulla of Bengal, Idli Sambhar of South India, Pav Bhaji of Mumbai, Dhokla of Gujrat, Dal- bati- Churma of Rajasthan, Chhole – Bhature of Delhi, Makki ki Roti and Sarso ka sag of Punjab, Fish Curry of Kerala, Prown Bindaloo of Goa, Pitha of Assam and Odisha, Lassi of Punjab and Haryana and many other dishes which you should not forget to eat while in India.
INDIAN TRIBE
Tribes are the indigenous community of India. They accounts for approximately 8% of the total population. There are approximately 26 tribes and 100 sub tribes but all the of them have distinct identity. Almost all the states in India have certain share of tribal population but predominant of them are Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand and the state of North East India. Visiting a tribal community means rediscovering our own origin. It is really joyful to see some prehistoric culture and tradition preserved in the tribal hinterland. Tribal tourism is a way to experience the tribe’s life, art, culture, tradition in the remote and far flung area. To preserve the tradition and identity the government is allowing restricted access to some of the most sensitive and endangered tribes.
INDIA EARLY MORNING
All the cities in India have their own morning charm. So, if you are an early bird and can spare some time before breakfast, you will have the views of some of the most rustic and authentic side of the urban or village life of India. The common sites are people doing morning walk or exercise, Newspaper vendor is rushing to distribute newspaper, sparkling florist shops with fresh collections, People enjoying tea at tea stall in the street, Shopkeepers preparing for the day, school children waiting for their bus. You will find that an endless number of street food joints power their pans with fire or blue hue from the little gas stove. In the temple towns and city of ghats people found taking holy deep in the river and offering prayers in the temples. In the morning the country somehow seems more in touch with its deeper soul as there is no sign of stress and fury that will engulf the city in few hours.
DRINKS OF INDIA TOUR
In a country like India where the climate varies from extreme cold ( -45 degree) to extreme hot (plus 45 degree), the people require a myriad of options to keep their thirst appropriately quenched according to the weather conditions. The drinks varies from steaming hot drinks during winters to frosty cold drinks in summers. Different regions in the country have their own specialists of the drinks due to inclusions of local spices, flavors and herbs. Even months of travel will be insufficient if you want to taste all the drinks of India. There are assorted drinks, hot drinks, dairy based drinks, soft drinks, bottled water and hard drinks.
UNESCO / HERITAGE TOUR
With rich & diverse history that dates back to 4500 years, India is a perfect destination for heritage tour. There are 38 UNESCO heritage sites in India which is a rare feat in all respect. These sites are evenly distributed in India but the prominent of them are in Rajasthan, Maharastra and Gujarat. A wide range of visit comes under UNESCO world heritage sites like those of monuments & buildings, temples, church, wild life sanctuaries, archaeological and Eco Park to even mountain railway that has origin in bygone era. You can see a perfect amalgamation of local with foreign influence that resulted into an architecture that which is really cosmopolitan in nature. It is common to see the Rajputana, Mughal & Persian architecture side by side in a same monument.
EXCLUSIVE CULTURE CENTER
Culture is the backbone of tourism in India. Cultural tourism in India takes the traveler beyond exotic beaches, picturesque hill, and utmost laviness and takes you to various historical places, museum, art gallery and authentic food trails. Almost all the major cities in India have cultural centers which depict the culture and art form of the regions. Some of them are Indian Art and Culture Center Delhi, Tibet house Culture center for Dalai lama, Korean culture center in Delhi, Shilpgrama Culture center, Jawahar Kala kendra in Jaipur. Kalakriti Culture and convention center in Agra etc. Visit to theses culture center can be accommodated in the programme depending upon the interest of the group.
Block Print
While in Jaipur you can visit Bagru Block printing workshop situated in an urbanized village Bagru just at the outskirts of Jaipur. A town of 30,000 people you can find houses of Chippas, a caste of printers who continue day after day to stamp lengths of cotton fabric with color using hand-carved wood blocks. They were taught this trade by their parents, who were, in turn, taught by theirs and so generation after generation is doing the same profession. You can create your own piece of art under the guidance of a mentor and take it as a souvenir.
Hidden treasure of well known cities
There are many hidden treasures that have been by and large untouched by civilisation and tourist hoarding. During the tour we try to accommodation some these which are really stunning and beautiful. Few hidden treasures are caves of Laitmawsiang (Meghalaya), Murud Janjira fort in Maharashtra, Arvalem caves in Goa, Doodhpathri in Budgam (Kashsmir), Maithan (Jharkhand) etc. There are too many hidden gems to visit in India that you should opt for over the usual tourist destinations. Besides these there are many hidden treasures in the big tourists destinations like Mehrauli archaeological park, ruins of Hauz khas (both in Delhi), Rambagh & Gyarah Sidi in Agra, Mitawali, Padawali & Bateshwar in Gwalior, Ajaygarh fort in Khajuraho . The list will be endless.
Shopping tour
From Kashmir to Kanyakumari a shopper can find something or else at all the places. As a tourist, it is always important to purchase some souvenirs from the places to visit. The main shopping items for tourists are fabrics, carpet, clothes, Jewelry, toys and handicrafts items. Women are more fascinated for shopping. Foreigners like to do shopping as due to cheap and better quality of products.
Visit the village of exclusive community
The tour of a country where 65% of the population still reside in the villages, remain inconclusive if you do not visit villages. Clients can experience the charming villages, Paddy fields, ponds, mud plastered and stale roofed houses, some old havelis and most important the innocent villagers. Clients can get to interact with local artisans, fishermen, porters, milkmen, farmers, pickle makers and many other who involve in small cottage industries. The whole exercise contributes towards responsible tourism.
Meeting with important person
During the tour clients can get the opportunity to meet different professionals and people from the different sections of the society and try to understand their profession, their way of life, nature of work in India.
Meeting with real artists
During the tour clients will get the opportunity to meet and interact with the artists who are master in their professions. The painters, musicians, dancers, photographers are all those people who are deeply involved and passionate for their art form. There is a possibility of organizing a session with these artists at their residence or work place. In Kerala the tourists have session with the artist kathakaali dancers who are getting ready with make up for their live show.
Different dance show
Dance in India has a rich and vital traditional value which has origin since ancient period. It has a significant value in religion due to myths and legends associated with it. Almost every states & regions in India has its own dance form. Main dance forms are Kathak, Bharatnatayam, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Odishi, Mohiniyattam, Ghoomar, Kathputli, Santhali, Bihu etc. There are some cultural centers and auditorium in the cities where the clients can enjoy dance show. For a group of travelers Special cultural evening with live music / dance can be organized for a group of travelers. There are many dance festivals like Khajuraho dance festival, Konarak dance festivals, Mahabalipuram dance festivals which are held in the tourist season.
Cooking Demonstration ( in a family / in a village)
A tourist is always curious to know the insight of the India family life, relationship, marriage, family traditions, ritual, culture etc. There could not be a better place than an Indian family where you will have plenty of talks on various subjects in a very hospital and friendly environment. The clients can learn the art of cooking and also enjoy authentic meal with the family. It is said that food solves many problem and it is the best way to connect with the people. Option for cooking demonstration and meal is available at most of the destinations in India.
Vintage Car ride
Vintage cars are considered to be the pride of rich Indian heritage culture. A car is considered to be vintage when it crosses 30 years from the date of manufacturing. There are many royal families, heritage hoteliers and few others who have fleet of vintage cars. You will feel royal when you get into the car and grab the attention of all those passing by. Vintage cars are mostly available in Rajasthan and used for the tourist who wants royal experience. These cars area are used during ceremonial receptions, grand welcome, gala dinner, marriage and for other luxury segment of the clients.
Hot Air Balloon
It is full of excitement flying high in the sky in a vibrant coloured giant hot air balloon. Riding in a hot air balloon is nothing less than a fantasy for many. Though this activity is relatively new in India, it’s gaining popularity and that is why new destinations for hot air ballooning is adding every year. Currently it is available in Jaipur, Pushkar, Lonavala, Hampi & Manali. Various firm of international repute are engaged in this activity and the all the safety measured are ensure for the same ride.
Zip line
This is one of the adventure experiences that a tourist can enjoy in India. It gives an adrenaline rush but a very picturesque overhead view of magnificent locations that you can't resist even if it scares you. The best places for Zip line in India are Rishikesh, Neemrana Fort, Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, Kolad in Maharashtra, Munnar & Patnitop near Jammu.
Sound & Light show
Sound and light show is organized at different monuments in India. It enhances the mood and improves the experiences of the clients. There are generally two shows, one in Hindi or regional language and other in English. The famous sound and light shows are those at Red fort in Delhi, Amer fort in Jaipur, Golconda fort Hyderabad, Gwalior fort, temple premises of Khajuraho, City palace Jaipur, Somnath temple, Vrindavan temple, Victoria memorial Kolkata & Mysore Palace, . Audio and visual presentation in the show reflects the grand history and rich culture of the place. You will feel like a part of the history.
Different mode of transport
During the tour in India clients can experience some unconventional mode of transport which ranges from paddle rickshaw ride to metro ride. The popular places for rickshaw ride are Old Delhi, Jaipur, Varanasi, Kolkata, Pondicherry & Madurai. Auto (Tuk Tuk) ride can be done in Bikaner, Jodhpur, Agra, Cochin. You will be able to explore by lanes and heart of the cities by rickshaw and tuk tuk. Metro ride in Delhi, boat ride in Udaipur, Varanasi, Kolkata, & Cochin. Toy train ride is available in Darjeeling, Shimla and Ooty. You will be able to explore the by lanes and the heart of the cities.
Mock Wedding
Wedding is one of the most glamorized events in India. A traditional wedding ceremony in India is an extraordinary event showcasing exuberant celebration which is full of liveliness and royalty. Mock wedding can be based on various themes like forts, palaces, beaches, luxury hotels, Metro cities, Religious places, backwater etc. The event includes special dresses for bride and groom, turban for group members, royal welcome, decorated stage with flowers, lavish spread out food, fireworks and the active participation of the group members. Proper Hindu rituals are followed in the marriage.
Typical Indian Food and drink tour
You can get the taste of local cuisine and drinks during the street food tour or even in the hotels or local restaurants. Each region of India has its own specialty of cuisine. During the walking tour of old Delhi, Kolkata, Amritsar, Jaipur, Lucknow, Varanasi and other cities you can content your taste bud with different cuisine. A large geographical variation, an abundant verity of vegetables and spices along with innumerable cultural traditions has together produced inexplicable verities of food. India is in fact a foodie’s paradise.
Unity in Diversity
This is one of the most commonly used words when we talk about India. This shows harmonious and congenial relationship that exist in our society in spite of having so much of diversity in terms of regions, religions, caste, culture, languages, dresses, cuisines, physical appearance, skin colour and others. We all are united through the strong thread of nationalism and contributing our parts in the development of the country. A tourist can visit the place of worship of different faith and belief; can participate in the fairs and festivals of all the communities. They will awestruck on seeing so much of variations in this country.
Urban Experience
After the economic liberalization in early nineties, India has witnessed massive urbanization. We can see a revolution in infrastructure development. Big multi-storey buildings, star categories of hotels, magnificent resorts, Multi cuisine restaurants, spa & wellness centers, world class hospitals, schools, colleges and few international repute universities, big shopping malls have added to the grandeur of the cities. There is a huge improvement in the mode of transport and communication. Clients can harvest the benefit of urbanization during the tour.
Heritage Walk
Walking tour is one of the most enjoyable and environment friendly form of tourism which takes the clients to every nook and corner of the city from where clients can enjoy local culture, interact with shopkeepers, learn the art of bargaining, and taste the local delicacies. In the walking tour, clients can take their own sweet time to appreciate some old heritage buildings, havelis, and monuments. Some of the old historical cities in India like Delhi, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Chennai, Varanasi, Amritsar, Mysore, and Madurai are particularly famous for Heritage walking tour.
City by night
There are many tourist destinations in India like Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Udaipur, Varanasi, Mumbai, Cochin, Amritsar, Goa etc where you can continue your visit beyond sunset or even plan after the sunset when the crowd is relatively low on the street. Illuminated monuments, religious places, government buildings, markets add special charms to the beauty of the places which you would like to capture in your camera. You can club the city by night tour with dinner at a restaurant of your choice.
Street Food
India is perhaps the richest country in the world with regard to variation in the food. Food and cuisine are the integral part of our culture which is best reflected in the street food. Your visit to India will remain inconclusive if you do not get the taste of real India. Each region/ state/cities have their own specialties. Not only tasting but also art of making various dishes is a visual delight.
Cycle / Motorbike
Motor biking is getting popularity among the new age group of tourists. We organize several such tours which crisscross the high altitude passes on Himalaya in the North and some popular routes in Western and Eastern ghats in South. Full logistic support with the trained professional guides / escorts will make your travel a real adventure. Cycling tour is organized for all ages group of the tourists which is not only eco friendly but also give the chance to visit villages, less inhabited area through some offbeat track.
Eco Experience
This is in fact the greatest challenge for all the stake holders of Tourism. Keeping a balance between development in the infrastructure for tourism and maintaining our ecosystem. It is an essential ingredient of sustainable tourism. We encourage the clients use eco-friendly measures like minimum use of plastic, use of metal water bottles instead of plastic, tree plantation, no wastage of water and food, choosing green hotels, using bio degradable product, walking and bike tour, showing sensibility towards flora and fauna while on the nature walk or on a wildlife visit.
CARE EXPERIENCE
We care for the marginalized section of our society and try to contribute by including certain norms which is pro- poor, specially for women and children. Visit to old age ashram, orphanage, women’s empowerment center and other non government organizations who are engaged in the services not only to mankind but also other animals. Our clients are more than happy to donate generously and find a sense of contentment while interacting with the people.
FAITH & BELIEF
Religion and Culture has been the pride for Indians for centuries. Faith and belief is so deeply rooted in our society. It is not uncommon to find various places of worship, such as a Hindu temple, Muslim mosque and Christian church, Sikh Gurdwara and Buddhist and Jain temple next to each other. This shows the highest tolerance level of Indians and also the respect for each and every religion. As a traveler you will get the opportunity to visit the sacred places of your faith and belief.
CHAI PE CHRCHA
Chai (tea) is an amazing drink which is accessed to the most deprived to the most privileged one in the Indian society. Chai opens the door of conversation where you can befriend with strangers. As a tourist you can have long conversation with your guide or your host on multiple subjects over a cup of tea.
ROOT EXPERIENCE
Clients are always interested to know the insight of the culture and tradition of the country visited and the best way to understand the same is people to people contacts. Interaction with the villagers, farmers, craftsmen, artisans, shopkeepers and local families will provide enough opportunity to the clients.
BLOCK PRINT
While in Jaipur you can visit Bagru Block printing workshop situated in an urbanized village Bagru just at the outskirts of Jaipur. A town of 30,000 people, you can find houses of Chippas, a caste of printers who continue day after day to stamp lengths of cotton fabric with color using hand-carved wood blocks. They were taught this trade by their parents, who were, in turn, taught by theirs and so generation after generation is doing the same profession. You can create your own piece of art under the guidance of a mentor and take it as a souvenir.
HIDDEN TREASURES OF WELLKNOWN CITIES
There are many hidden treasures that have been by and large untouched by civilisation and tourist hoarding. During the tour we try to accommodation some of these which are really stunning and beautiful. Few hidden treasures are caves of Laitmawsiang (Meghalaya), Murud Janjira fort in Maharashtra, Arvalem caves in Goa, Doodhpathri in Budgam (Kashsmir), Maithan (Jharkhand) etc. There are too many hidden gems to visit in India that you should opt for over the usual tourist destinations. Besides these, there are many hidden treasures in the big tourists destinations like Mehrauli archaeological park, ruins of Hauz khas (both in Delhi), Rambagh & Gyarah Sidi in Agra, Mitawali, Padawali & Bateshwar in Gwalior, Ajaygarh fort in Khajuraho. The list will be endless.
SHOPPING TOUR
From Kashmir to Kanyakumari a shopper can find something or else at all the places. As a tourist, it is always important to purchase some souvenirs from the places of visit. The main shopping items for tourists are fabrics, carpet, clothes, Jewelry, toys and handicrafts items. Women are more fascinated for shopping. Foreigners like to do shopping due to cheap and better quality of products.
VISIT THE VILLAGE OF EXCLUSIVE COMMUNITY (Artist / Fisherman / Pickle / Achar maker / Porter)
The tour of a country where 65% of the population still reside in the villages, remain inconclusive if you do not visit villages. Clients can experience the charming villages, Paddy fields, ponds, mud plastered and stale roofed houses, some old havelis and most important the innocent villagers. Clients can get to interact with local artisans, fishermen, porters, milkmen, farmers, pickle makers and many others who involve in small cottage industries. The whole exercise contributes towards responsible tourism.
MEETING WITH IMPORTANT PERSON (Naturopathies / Priest / Palmist / Astrologer)
During the tour clients can get the opportunity to meet different professionals and people from the different sections of the society and try to understand their profession, their way of life, nature of work in India.
MEETING WITH REAL ARTISTS
During the tour clients will get the opportunity to meet and interact with the artists who are master in their professions. The painters, musicians, dancers, photographers are all those people who are deeply involved and passionate for their art forms. There is a possibility of organizing a session with these artists at their residence or work place. In Kerala the tourists have session with the kathakali dancers who are getting ready with make up for their live show.
DIFFERENT DANCE SHOWS
Dance in India has a rich and vital traditional value which has origin since ancient period. It has a significant value in religion due to myths and legends associated with it. Almost every states & regions in India has its own dance form. Main dance forms are Kathak, Bharatnatayam, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Odishi, Mohiniyattam, Ghoomar, Kathputli, Santhali, Bihu etc. There are some cultural centers and auditoriums in the cities where the clients can enjoy dance shows. For a group of travelers special cultural evening with live music / dance can be organized for a group of travelers. There are many dance festivals like Khajuraho dance festival, Konarak dance festivals, Mahabalipuram dance festivals which are held in the tourist season.