Welcome to Intrepid real life experiences... we hope that you enjoy exploring the world as much as we do.
Travel across India, taking in the clash of sights, cities and cultures that this colourful country is famous for. Explore holy Buddhist caves, admire the mish mash of architectural styles in Sanchi and stroll by the river in chilled-out Orchha, all the while meeting friendly locals and indulging in tasty Indian curries. From the Dhobi ghats of Mumbai to manic Old Delhi bazaars, you'll create amazing memories to last a lifetime.
Warning - This is a new trip for us!
While we have been operating in India for over ten years now and have had a team of researchers travelling in the area to put together this trip, it still must be remembered that this is a relatively new trip for us. To be frank, we expect some things to go wrong! We usually make this warning when we head to new destinations - and usually we find there are more pleasant surprises in store than unpleasant ones. But the warning is sincere, and if it concerns you then we recommend that you wait for a year until we get any bugs ironed out. Any improvements to our itinerary are noted immediately on our website, so before booking and travelling please go to www.intrepidtravel.com and enter this trip code in the trip finder to check for any updates.
Style
Trip Map
Itinerary
Culture Shock Rating
Physical Rating
Included Activities
Optional Activities
Spending Money
Tipping
Local Payment
Important Notes
Group Size
Accommodation
Meals
Meal Inclusions
The best value adventures on the planet! On a Basix trip, you can expect some amazing experiences, but none of the inclusions or 'extras' that you may not want. Which means simple and often multishare accommodation and a lot of local transport. These trips are ideal for first time travellers seeking fun and independence with the security of a group leader at hand and for backpackers wanting minimum hassle and maximum flexibility at the lowest possible price.
Namaste! Welcome to India.
Travellers arrive from all corners of the world during the day so there are no arranged activities on day 1 aside from a group meeting at 1:00pm. It is a good idea to have lunch before hand as we head our straight after the meeting. Check with reception at the hotel to find out exactly where this important meeting will take place. Please note that your leader will collect your local payment today.
After the meeting we'll head out on an orientation walk around town. Known as Bombay until its recent name change, Mumbai is India's commercial capital. Marvel at the expansive Dhobi Ghats or take a stroll along Chowpatty Beach at sunset. An evening promenade here is a must so you can try local delicacies on offer at the street stalls. Prepare to be offered everything from a neck massage to fresh coconuts!
As for food you'll find a wide array of restaurants to choose from. Prawn gassi and salt, pepper and garlic squid top the list of local dishes. Mumbai is also India's entertainment capital so after dark, you can head out to one of the chic modern nightclubs, or take in some jazz by the bay.
We travel to Aurangabad by early morning train (approx. 7 hours) and on arrival, are transferred to our hotel. After freshening up, get acquainted with the city's sights on an orientation walk, which includes an optional visit to Bibi Ka Maqbara.
During our stay here, we take local bus to the incredible Ellora Caves, 34 caverns extending in a linear arrangement, filled with Buddhist Chaityas (halls of worship), viharas, monasteries as well as Hindu and Jain Temples. The most imposing excavation is, without doubt, that of the magnificent Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) which is the largest monolithic structure in the world. Ellora has been designated as a World Heritage Site, so that the caves will be preserved as an artistic legacy, and accompanied by a local guide, we learn about the cultural importance of the caves, taking a local version of a tuk-tuk to travel between the sites.
In Aurangabad we stay in a hotel.
Today, we travel via Ajanta to Jalgaon (approx. 5 hours), where we stay overnight. Your leader will take you on an orientation walk around Jalgaon.
We take a local expert with us to guide us around the caves at Ajanta. Situated in a mammoth horseshoe-shaped rock at Ajanta, are 30 caves overlooking a gorge, each forming a room in the hill. Al these have been carved out of solid rock with little more than a hammer, a chisel and the faith and inspiration of Buddhism. Inside these rooms, over a period of 600 years, artisans excavated chaityas (chapels) for Buddhist monks to pray in and viharas (monasteries) where they could live and study. Many of the caves have the most exquisite detailed carvings on the walls, pillars and entrances as well as magnificent wall paintings.
The caves were discovered early in the 19th century quite by chance, by a party of British Officers on military manoeuvres in the area. Today, the paintings and sculptures on Buddha's life, belonging to the more mellow and ritualistic Mahayana Buddhism period have become world-famous. The caves are now protected under the Archaeological Survey of India and have been World Heritage listed as well. Wandering around inside and checking out the ornaments, textiles, musical instruments, architecture and customs, we get great insight into life in ancient India.
In Jalgaon we stay in a hotel.
We take a morning train to Khandawa (approx. 3 hours) and then transfer to Omkareshwar in a local jeep. On arrival, we head out for an orientation walk.
Omkareshwar, an Om-shaped island in the middle of a river, is prime material for Hinduism. One of the 12 jyotirlings, Omkareshwar is considered to be the most important holy place for Hindus. Temples, both ancient and sacred, dot these beautiful ghats, giving the town the same kind of atmosphere as found around Varanasi and the Ganges. Rectangular boats ferry pilgrims across the river and from the water, you can get views of steep fort walls, ancient palaces and colourful bathing ghats - simply spectacular!
In Omkareshwar we stay in a hotel.
Today, we head to Mandu by private vehicle (approx 3.5 hrs), stopping en route at Maheswar for a chance to see the famous fort, temples as well as handloom saris. On arrival in Mandu, we take a orientation walk of the village.
Sometime during our time here, you could take a bicycle tour to explore some of the greatest monuments built by the leisure-loving Afghan royals, who ruled this region in the 15th century. It includes the Jahaz Mahal - the 'Ship Palace', a beautiful structure built between two lakes. Within it is a phenomenal 4-storey-structure with 7 ft-deep pool on the first floor, fed by a Persian wheel. An ingenious filtration system slows the flow of water through a spiral that looks like a coiled snake and the entire effect is simply breathtaking. It also visits the Hindola Mahal, a palace with graceful, sloping walls and ramps said to have been built so royal ladies could ascend ponies, palanquins and elephants with ease. Finally it explores the air-conditioned passages of the Champa Baodi (Step Well), and the royal residence with its Turkish bath, with its subterranean chambers and clever contraptions designed to ensure total comfort.
In Mandu we stay in a hotel.
We take a long drive in the same vehicle (approx. 8 hrs) to our next destination, Bhopal. On arrival we take a orientation walk to the old city. We check out Taj ul Masjid, one of the largest most beautiful and impressive Mosques in Asia, then end our walk watching sunset over the lake.
In Bhopal we stay in a hotel.
Today, we take a short local bus ride (approx. 2 hours) to Sanchi. The town is a meeting place for almost all kinds of Buddhist architectural forms, and you can see stupas, chaityas, temples and monasteries as well as some of the finest examples of Buddhist creative art and sculpture in the country.
In Sanchi we stay in a hotel.
Today we transfer to Vidisha station to catch the train to Jhansi (approx. 5 hours), then travel on to Orchha (approx. 30 minutes).
Situated on the banks of the Betwa River, Orchha has changed little over the centuries. Originally a hunting area, it became the centre and capital of the Bundelas (a Rajput clan), and as a result, has a startling number of temples and palaces - more than any town of this size deserves!
In your free time, why not check out the Jehangir Mahal, a 17th century palace built by one of the Bundela rajas for the great Mughal emperor? You could also stroll all two of the streets that make up this tiny town, and maybe spend the evening watching the puja ceremony, which takes place between 7:00-8:00pm (seasonal).
On day 13, you can take the opportunity to visit one of Intrepid's RT projects, Taragram. This unique papermaking plant was set up to give tribal women from the area a chance to work outside the traditional areas normally afforded to them. All the paper is made from recycled clothing and wood pulp.
In Orchha we stay in a hotel.
On day 13 we transfer to Jhansi, where we catch our overnight train to Delhi (approx. 8 hours). Our sleeper train is clean and air-conditioned, a great way to travel long distances and still get maximum time in each place. Beds are padded berths, sheets, pillow and blanket are provided but some people prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. Please note you may be sharing with locals in a same gender/mixed gender situation. Most trains have a dining carriage where food/snacks/meals are available.
On day 14 we venture out into Old Delhi, the walled city of Shahjahanabad, which was the creation of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Entering the city ramparts, we visit one of its most impressive buildings and Delhi's oldest mosque, the Jama Masjid.
Afterwards, you have time to join the crowds and walk in the bazaars of the Old City, immersing yourselves in the noise and smells of the crowded narrow streets and alleys, where different areas specialise in festival paraphernalia, silk, copper, brass and spices.
India's capital is an exciting, busy and at times, chaotic city. However, it is also one of the most interesting cities you'll ever come across. With historical sites from different eras, museums and galleries, shops and endless bazaars, you'll have plenty to keep you busy. The Qutb Minar and Purana Qila, the crafts museum, Indira Gandhi Museum, Birla House (the site of Gandhi's assassination) and the centre of Imperial British India at Rajpath are all attractions that we highly recommend that you visit.
There are no activities planned for day 15 and you are able to depart the hotel at any time. Check out time from the hotel is at 12 noon. If you are departing later, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel.
The itinerary attached is correct at time of printing. Please note: occasionally our itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travellers' comments and our own research. Our brochure is usually released in November each year. As such the information given in this itinerary may be slightly different to that in the brochure. It is VERY IMPORTANT that you print and review a final copy of your Trip Notes a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. For the latest updated trip notes please visit our website: www.intrepidtravel.com
Expect some culture shock. You will be exposed to signs of poverty and access to services may be sporadic. The food will be quite different and English speakers harder to find. Respecting the local culture will make it easier to fit in and really experience the location.
This trip will raise your heartbeat. Moderate physical activities are included and a good level of fitness is required.
This is a list of included activities on this trip. All other activities are optional and at your own expense. For a list of optional
activities and sightseeing available on this trip, see the optional activities section below. If you choose not to participate in the included
activities on this itinerary, the cost will not be refunded.
Orientation walk - Mumbai
Orientation walk - Aurangabad
Ellora Caves transport (entry not included) - Aurangabad
Orientation walk - Jalgaon
Ajanta Caves transport (entry not included), Jalgaon - INR250
Orientation walk - Omkareshwar
Orientation walk - Mandu
Orientation walk of old city - Bhopal
Orientation walk - Delhi
We list the following optional activities for your information. This is not an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only.
They are not necessarily endorsed or recommended by Intrepid nor included in price of this trip. If you do any of them, you do so at your own risk and it must be clearly understood that your participation is your own decision and does not form part of your contract with Intrepid.
Bibi Ka Maqbara, Aurangabad - INR100
Aurangabad Caves, Aurangabad - INR100
Ellora Caves entry (transport included), Aurangabad - INR250
Ajanta Caves entry (transport included), Jalgaon - INR250
Jaz Mahal, Mandu - INR100
Roopmati Pavillion, Mandu - INR100
Hoshang Shah Tomb, Mandu - INR100
Entrance fees on bike tour, Mandu - INR450
Buddhist Monuments, Sanchi - INR250
Palace Complex, Orcha - INR250
Jehangir Mahal, Orchha - INR250
Red Fort, Delhi - INR100
Qutab Minar, Delhi - INR250
Got extra time before or after your Intrepid adventure? Maybe there is an URBAN ADVENTURE in one of the cities that you're visiting on your trip?
Intrepid's Urban Adventures are the city tour with a difference - there are more than 100 to choose from in over 30 cities around the world, with new trips added regularly. They are a great way to get under the skin of the city you're visiting, in just a few hours. To make a booking contact your local travel agent, Intrepid consultant or visit www.urbanadventures.com
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, participating in optional activities and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
If you are happy with the services provided a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Intrepid destinations. We recommend that any tips are given to the intended recipient by a member of your group, rather than collected and passed on by the group leader.
The following amounts are based on local considerations and feedback from our past travellers:
Restaurants: Local markets and basic restaurants - round your bill up to the nearest INR 20. More up-market restaurants we suggest 10% to 15% of your bill.
Local guides: Throughout your trip you may at times have a local guide in addition to your leader. We suggest INR100 per day for local guides.
Porters: Throughout your trip you may at times have a porter in addition to your leader. We suggest INR50 per day for porters.
Drivers: You may have a range of drivers on your trip. Some may be with you for a short journey while others may be with you for several days. We would suggest a higher tip for those more involved with the group however a base of INR 100 per day is generally appropriate.
Local transport: For a city tour we suggest INR 50 per day.
Your Group Leader: You may also consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $US 2-4 per person, per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
A local payment will be collected by your leader on day 1 of your trip. The amount of this local payment varies depending on whether you booked your trip on old or new prices.
New price local payment = INR12000 on day 1.
This applies to all travellers who have paid in full after 22 Sept 2008.
Old price local payment = INR10000 on day 1 .
This applies to all travellers who have paid in full prior to 22 Sept 2008.
Most of our trips require a compulsory local payment, which is part of the contract with you
(the customer) and Intrepid Travel Pty Ltd. This amount is the final payment for your trip
and is to be paid in the specified currency, in cash to your leader upon arrival.
The local payment is non-refundable, and is considered part of the total trip payment.
Further details and information on your local payment are shown in our brochures and on our website at
http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/faq/#localpmt
Please note that heat and humidity during summer (Apr-Jun) in India can be particularly oppressive with temperatures reaching 45 degrees C/113 degrees F.
Maximum of 12 travellers per group
Simple guesthouses (13 nts), overnight train (1 nt)
Some of the accommodation along the way is very basic, staying in local guesthouses and homestays with limited facilities. Some facilities are shared and some accommodation has cold water only.
The style of accommodation described in the day to day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multi share basis. Please note there may be times when you share a room with passengers travelling on different Intrepid trips than your own.
Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we are arriving prior to normal check in time. However this is not always possible which means we will not be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination.
If you have purchased pre or post trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
Our sleeper train is clean and air-conditioned, a great way to travel long distances and still get maximum time in each place. Beds are padded berths, sheets, pillow and blanket are provided but some people prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. Please note you may be sharing with locals in a same gender / mixed gender situation. Most trains have a dining carriage where food/snacks/meals.
The accommodation on this trip does not have air-conditioned rooms.
While travelling with us you will experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. On our camping trips we often cook the region's specialties so you don't miss out. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule 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. Please check the 'meal inclusions' section of these notes for details of meals included.
Allow USD $290 for meals not included.
No meals included
Overnight train, jeep, boat, local bus, auto rickshaw, walking
There are some long travel days and some of the transport can be quite cramped and without air conditioning.
All Intrepid 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. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders.
Your leader 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 places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you were interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.
Hotel Fortune
36/38, 1st Marine Street
Metro Adlabs Theatre
Dhobi Talao
Mumbai
India
Phone: 022-22052502
Hotel Fortune is located close to CST Railway Station and nearby Bombay Hospital, Metro Cinema, Crawford Market and the central Mumbai District - there is plenty to see and do in and around the hotel
Rooms are clean and simple with air-conditioning, refrigerator, colour television with CCTV, direct dialling, 24 hrs hot & cold water, and much more.
An arrival transfer from the airport is available if purchased at the time of booking. Transfers cannot be arranged on arrival. Please advise your flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to your departure. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer you will be met on arrival. Our local representative will be holding a sign with your name when you exit the airport terminal. If for any reason you cannot locate the person please call the local operator (phone numbers provided on your voucher).
A taxi from the airport to Hotel Fortune should cost about INR500 and take about 45 minutes.
Normal check in time at the hotel is after 12:00.
If you have booked accommodation with us prior to your trip, please present your voucher to the hotel reception on arrival. If there is any problem with your booking please ask the reception to call the Intrepid representative on +91 93100 46191 to resolve the issue for you. If there is a problem with your room after check in, please ask the reception desk first to see if the problem can be rectified or your room changed. If you are not satisfied with the resolution offered by the hotel, please then contact the Intrepid representative on the number above.
We don't expect any problems (and nor should you!) but if for any reason you are unable to commence your
group trip as scheduled, please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader.
If you have pre-booked an airport transfer (where available) 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 in the Trip
Notes. Should this occur, please apply to your travel agent for a refund of the transfer cost on your return.
No refund is available on missed transfers or portions of your trip owing to a different flight arrival or delayed flight arrival. Any
additional cost incurred in order to meet up with your group is at your own expense.
Hotel Perfect
16 A/2 WEA
Near Karol Bagh Metro Station
Delhi
India
Phone: 011-42502294
Our hotel in Delhi is located in the intriguing Karol Bagh market area, surrounded by a mix of local stalls, shops and restaurants, as well as some western shops. It is only a 25 minutes ride by auto rickshaw (INR70-80 with bargaining) to get to the heart of Delhi, Connaught Place.
Hotel Perfect's room facilities include air-conditioning, TV with cable, and telephone. There is a restaurant and room service. Luggage storage and safe deposit facilities are also available at the hotel.
Please check out the Intrepid folder (ask at reception) for more information and suggestions for what to do in and around Delhi.
A departure transfer from our hotel to the airport is available if arranged at the time of booking. Please advise your flight arrival details at least 30 days prior to your trips start date. If you plan to stay longer, this departure transfer can only be offered in conjunction with post-tour accommodation booked through Intrepid. If you have pre-booked a departure transfer with us it is vital that you reconfirm your pick-up time from the hotel before departure day. Please ask your leader to contact our transfer provider or alternatively contact them directly on +91 971139056
Delhi's Indira Gandhi's International Airport is approximately 25km from Karol Bagh.
One if the biggest airports in the world, it can be quite chaotic.
Before check in you must have your check in luggage X rayed and sealed. Also ensure at check in that your hand luggage is tagged (this is a mandatory in order to clear security)
A taxi to the Delhi Indira Gandi Airport takes about 1 hour and should cost between INR 450 -500. Hotel reception or your leader can help you arrange a taxi.
Check-out time from the hotel is 12 noon. If you are departing later, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel.
In the case of a genuine crisis or emergency, Intrepid's India Office can be reached on +91 11 4500 6400 during business hours (9.30am to 6pm) or after hours Tel: +91 9999916229 . For all other enquiries please contact our Reservations department which is open 24 hours, 6 days per week. For further contact details please use the following page: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/contact/.
Please also make sure you have access to an additional USD$400, to be used when unforeseen incidents or circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster, civil unrest or an outbreak of bird flu) necessitate a change to our planned route.
Please note that visas 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. We keep the following information up to date as much as possible,
but rules do change. It is important that you check for yourself.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your return date. Be sure to check the date you require a visa from and the length of time you will need to cover, especially if you change countries during your trip.
India: All foreign nationals, including children, require a visa to enter India. There is no visa on arrival in India- Visas MUST be obtained in advance. Indian visas cannot be obtained in Nepal. Tourist visas are available in Single and Multiple Entries.
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. In addition, laundry services can be found outside our hotel in all major cities. There may be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non polluting/biodegradable soap.
What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking you should pack as lightly as possible. On the vast majority of our trips you are expected to carry your own luggage and although you will not be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes) we recommend keeping the weight under 10kg/22lb.
Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for daytrips.
The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion ends up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments. Please avoid the purchase of bottled water by using the available safe alternatives where recommended by your group leader.
In India and Kathmandu, many hotels and restaurants have reverse osmosis, Aquaguard or Bisleri water dispensers that provide safe drinking water which you may use to refill water bottles. To be doubly confident, you may wish to add water purification tablets to your water.
Whilst trekking, boiled or safe water is available some of the time, however you will also need to carry a water purification method. Options include:
- purification tablets available from camping stores or pharmacies eg. Micropur.
- 2% tincture of iodine, available from pharmacies, used at 4 drops per litre of water and left for at least 20 minutes - longer in very cold weather.
Blankets are provided on the camel safari but not for the overnight train journey, you might like to bring a sleeping bag or if you prefer, blankets can be bought locally. Safety helmets are not provided for the camel safari, you may like to bring your own if this is an issue for you.
In India it is important that your bags can be locked as on the trains it may be necessary to store your luggage separately from the group. The smaller your bag in India the better, because on trains or buses only smaller bags will fit into the storage areas. If your bag does not fit in these areas then often the only place to put it is on your seat or on the roof. So to get maximum comfort, pack small and light!
Temperatures can be very low in the height of the winter months so bring a set of warmer clothes including thermal underclothes and fleece jackets.
During our trip there will be many opportunities for you to meet and "talk" with locals. One way to start any conversation is with pictures. We recommend that you bring some photos/postcards of your family, home, city or country where you live, animals peculiar to your country etc.
Please bring a photocopy of your passport main page and airline ticket if you will require airline reconfirmation at the end of your trip.
When packing be aware that dress standards are conservative throughout Asia, especially outside major cities. To respect this and for your own comfort, we strongly recommend modest clothing. This means clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in the predominantly hot Asian climate. In many rural areas in Asia women will need to wear modest clothing even to swim. Singlets, tank tops and topless sun bathing are all unacceptable. When visiting religious sites men often need to wear long trousers and women a long skirt or sarong.
The following checklist is to be used as a guide only and is not intended to be a complete packing list. Any other items that you wish to pack are at your own discretion however you should attempt to comply with the suggested luggage weight limit.
Travel documents: passport, visas, travel insurance certificate, air tickets, Intrepid voucher
Health requirements arranged
Money: cash/credit card & money pouch
Day pack to carry your personal needs during the day
First aid kit (including Antihistamines)
Medication/prescriptions (it is a good idea to have a doctors letter if you are carrying a large amount of medication), travel sickness tablets if required
Prescription glasses and contact lens solution if required
Alarm clock
Torch/flashlight
Travel plug/international adapter
Insect repellent
Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
Swimming costume
Lightweight travel towel
Ear plugs/eye mask
Comfortable walking shoes
Local language phrase book (mp3 language downloads available from www.intrepidtravel.com/languageguides)
Camera, film and/or memory cards with spare batteries
Personal audio player with spare batteries
Raincoat/umbrella
Waterproof jacket
Sleep sheet for the overnight train (optional)
Warm clothes for the cooler nights all year round
Warmer clothes in winter including thermal underwear, fleece jacket, warm hat and gloves (Dec-Feb)
Tampons can be difficult to buy in India
Lock for your bag
Good walking shoes or trekking boots for walks
Our female travellers have recommended taking a sports bra for the camel ride
During December to February: sleeping bag for the cold nights and for on the train (blankets can be bought locally if you don't want to carry your sleeping bag with you)
Currency exchange rates often fluctuate. For the most up to date rates please refer to the following website:
www.oanda.com.
Generally the most convenient and cheapest way to obtain local currency in Asia is via an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) or Bancomat - this can draw from your home account or from a credit card (debit card) at a superior exchange rate. Most ATMs will also give you a cash advance on your credit card but be wary of high fees imposed by banks. Check with your bank for information on their international fees. When leaving home don't forget your PIN and make sure you know the telephone number for cancelling your card if it is stolen. Keep this in a safe place. Please ensure you have advised your bank of your intended travel and withdrawal locations. While traveller's cheques have security advantages exchanging them can be a lengthy process, commissions can be high (up to 10%) and they can be difficult to change in rural areas, on weekends and public holidays. If you choose to bring travellers cheques, make sure they are a major brand and major currency.
Please note that most establishments in Asia will not accept foreign currency notes that are old, torn or faded and they can be very difficult to exchange or extra fees added when exchanging at banks. Please ensure that you have new, clean notes.
India: The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). There are many ATM machines (which accept both Visa and MasterCard) throughout India, though mainly limited to major cities. For traveller's cheques, the easiest to change are Thomas Cook or American Express in USD currency. Cash should be in US dollars. Black markets no longer exist in India. Major credit cards are accepted in the larger shops and restaurants but only in the bigger cities.
All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket.
If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend email. Email cafes are generally available throughout the regions we visit, although it is possible you may be without email contact for several days on some itineraries. 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 details. We don't recommend that family and friends try to contact you through hotels, as they are subject to change and the reception staff may not speak English.
While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local partner straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.
We recognise that there may be times when your group leader/local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case please ask the leader if you may speak to their direct manager.
You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip but we do ask you to be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is complete.
All Intrepid travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully in the group travel experience. If in the opinion of our group leader or company representative any traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, Intrepid reserves the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. We therefore ask that you read the itinerary in these trip notes thoroughly and then realistically self-assess your physical ability to complete the trip as described. Please consult with your doctor if you have any doubts.
There are no specific health requirements for this trip. However, you should consult your doctor for up-to-date information and prescriptions before your departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that for legal reasons any leaders/guides are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets and antibiotics.
Please contact us at help@intrepidtravel.com should you require any clarification on what is involved on your itinerary. For travellers over 70 years a completed Intrepid Self Assessment Form is required.
Intrepid is very aware of the health issues raised by bird flu and SARS and these have been taken into consideration for all aspects of the trip you are about to take. Intrepid reserve the right to make changes to any itinerary in the very unlikely occurrence that an area should suddenly be deemed to be unsafe because of an outbreak of bird flu, SARS or other disease.
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. Please refer to our website's Safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips: www.intrepidtravel.com/safety.
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
Your leader will accompany you on all included activities however 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 the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also 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.
For more details on the type of conditions and safety standards you can expect on your trip, please refer to Intrepid's operational safety policy at www.intrepidtravel.com/safety.
We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how well it is being implemented in the field.
Please be aware that while travelling there is the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy areas. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport, including keeping an eye on any luggage that is put underneath the seats or on overhead racks. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.
Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities differ from those in the western world and not all the accommodation which we use on this trip has fire exits, smoke alarms or fire extinguishers.
Depending on where you come from please note that drivers in this part of the world may drive on the opposite side of the road from what you are used to. Look both ways before crossing any road. Traffic can be a little more chaotic than you might be used to at home. Be aware on the roads and even small streets and alleyways. Vehicles find their ways into impossibly small passages leaving no room for both you and the traffic. Traffic can be very noisy and horns are used to signal turning, overtaking and to announce going through intersections.
While life jackets are available on water craft in Asia, there may be occasions where child size life jackets are not readily available. If travelling with children and this safety issue concerns you we will be able to advise alternative methods of transport (where available) for you to travel to the next destination. You can choose to travel independently for this leg of the journey. This would be at your own expense.
Travelling in India and Nepal whilst the Holi festival (a lunar festival but generally held in March every year) is on can at times be dangerous - a lot of locals participate in consumption of intoxicating substances. The day has been associated with physical violence and danger. Your leader will be advising you and your group on what places to avoid on this day and it may even be necessary for us to alter your itinerary for the day to avoid putting you or our group leader in high risk situation.
Travelling during the Hindu festival Diwali (a lunar festival but generally held between mid October to mid November every year) can be dangerous. During this time there are many displays of fireworks in the streets. It can be very noisy for several days and there is also a lot of pollution caused by the fireworks. As there are no restrictions on buying fireworks in India there are often injuries caused by people exploding them inappropriately. During this festival your leader may be required to alter your itinerary to avoid any dangerous areas to avoid putting the group at risk.
The availability of seat belts in vehicles (both privately chartered and public transport) is not a legal requirement in this region and is therefore not guaranteed on the transport that we use. Where possible Intrepid chooses transport with seat belts however this is not always possible.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. 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.
When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24 hour emergency contact number has been seen by your leader.
If you have credit card insurance your tour leader will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number and emergency contact telephone number rather than the Bank's name and credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country.
Please go to www.intrepidtravel.com/insurance.php for links to various travel insurance providers.
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
likely a range of age groups 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.
Please note that due to privacy reasons we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information
about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure.
Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a compulsory single supplement. Single travellers share with people of the same gender for the duration of the trip, in accommodation ranging from twin to multi-share. Please note some of our itineraries have accommodation booked on a mixed gender share basis - where applicable this will be specified in our Trip Notes. On a selection of our Comfort and Original style trips you have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure that you will have your own room (where available). Please refer to the important notes if this trip has a single supplement and any accommodation on the trip that the single supplement will not apply to. Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour, pre- and post-trip accommodation will be booked on a single room basis.
We believe strongly in low impact or rather positive impact tourism. Broadly speaking this means that we try to minimise the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit and highlight the positive aspects. Please refer to our website at www.intrepidtravel.com/responsibletravel for further details and suggestions on how you can be a responsible traveller.
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our 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 Intrepid travellers. Intrepid's philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make our destinations such special places. 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 if they use prostitutes.
Since Intrepid Travel commenced operating in 1989 we have been committed to giving something back to the communities we visit. One way has been through our support for local humanitarian, development and conservation projects. Many of our travellers want to contribute something too. To make things easier we established The Intrepid Foundation. All donations to The Intrepid Foundation will be matched by Intrepid Travel dollar for dollar, up to AU$5,000 per donor and a total of AU$300,000 for all donors in each financial year. And every cent gets there as Intrepid Travel pays for all the administration costs. Donating is simple and secure. Please ask your group leader for information on the projects we support in the region, through The Intrepid Foundation; or go to our website: www.theintrepidfoundation.org
Our sponsored project is Deepalaya. Deepalaya started in 1979 to help children who would otherwise work and live on the railway platforms, bus stations and commercial complexes of Delhi. They establish education centres, provide hostel care and counselling, community health initiatives and a range of other projects to care for working children, street children, girls with no education, "differently-abled" children and run away children.
The final sponsored project in India is GOONJ. GOONJ is a unique initiative to provide clothes and other basic needs to millions of people - on the roads, in the remote areas, across the country.
All Intrepid travellers are required to sign a Participation Form on day 1 of the trip. Please note that signing the form is a prerequisite of
travelling with Intrepid. The wording of this form follows:
"I understand that travelling with Intrepid may involve risks (and rewards)
above and beyond those encountered on a more conventional holiday, and that
I am undertaking an adventure trip with inherent dangers. I understand that
I am travelling to geographical areas where, amongst other things, the
standard of accommodation, transport, safety, hygiene, cleanliness, medical
facilities, telecommunications and infrastructure development may not be of
the standard I am used to at home or would find on a conventional holiday. I
have read and understood the Intrepid trip notes for the trip I am
undertaking and have provided details of any pre-existing medical conditions
I have to Intrepid's representatives.
I accept these risks and obligations and I fully assume the risks of travel.
I release Intrepid Travel from any liabilities connected to these risks to
the maximum extent permitted by law."
After your travels, we want to hear from you! This is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 4 weeks of finishing your trip. Go to: www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback
Thanks!
Do you want to see your travel photos published? To celebrate all that is travel photography, Intrepid hold an annual Intrepid Photography Competition.
There are five categories - real life experiences, travelling families, local friends, landscapes, icons - each with a fabulous prizes.For more information,
entry form and competition conditions, please visit www.intrepidtravel.com/photocomp. Send entries to
The Editor,
Intrepid Travel,
PO Box 2781,
Fitzroy DC 3065,
Victoria, Australia.
Express is our email newsletter that is full of interesting and exciting regular features, travel tips, competitions, great giveaways, reviews, recipes, travellers' stories and money saving specials! Plus we give you the chance to WIN an Intrepid trip every week - subscribe for free at http://www.intrepidtravel.com/express/
