While it is our intention to adhere to the route described in various tour programs, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary. On occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations to the itinerary. We make the itinerary brief as due to various circumstances, we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to the mode of transportation and the regions visited, at times the journey may be unpredictable and the itinerary will need to be revised. The itinerary for every trip provides a general schedule for the tour, and an outline for the destinations along the journey. While specific destinations or visits to wildlife areas may be included in an itinerary, due to different circumstances it is not guaranteed that they will be visited, or wildlife encountered. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations and may vary due to local events, conditions and more.

Important Notes:

1. India is a country that is very different from other countries you have visited. While this means it is not the easiest place to travel through, this makes India different and interesting to travelers. The pollution, poverty and crowded cities you see during your travels can cause culture shock, but if you came to experience India, then you will see it as an exciting experience. As in any travels abroad to a different country, you should always expect to encounter some difficulties along your journeys.

2. In India its people have different attitudes to time keeping, public cleanliness, privacy and service. Trains will sometimes be late, plumbing can sometimes be temperamental and there will be power losses. Restaurant menus may only offer one dish. Everyone you encounter will want to know our name. Patience and a healthy sense of humor will help make your journey fun, and enlightening for you.

3. From March 1st, 2009 a 1300 Indian Rupee (approximately 28 USD) User Development Fund will be charged for passengers leaving on International and Domestic flights from Delhi Airport. The Fee is to be paid by passengers directly to GMR at their counter at the airport before departure on your journey. Please note that infants are exempt from UDF. The fee is not a departure tax but goes to the ongoing construction and development of the Delhi International Airport.

Your Fellow Travelers:

When you travel with a group tour you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travelers will probably come from all corners of the world and are likely to be of a variety of ages too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group. Patience with your fellow travelers will benefit everyone's travel experience. Please remember as a member of a tour group, you must be responsible for being on time when you need to meet the group. If you’re running late, it can impact the others in the group and also the travel schedule. 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.

Train:

The best way to see India is traveling on our national railway system. In fact, no visit to India would be complete without the experience of traveling on a train and negotiating the busy railway stations. The chaos in the Indian railway stations is indicative of life in India. India’s trains not only are a mode of transportation, but will offer you an odyssey as you travel through some of the most exotic and exciting cities and countryside in the world. So just sit back, relax, and enjoy your trip.

Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. uses a combination of AC 2 tier, AC 3 tier and sleeper class (for overnight journeys) and AC Chair car or second-class seats for day journeys.

There are no restaurant or buffet cars on Indian Railways, but on long-distance trains you can order food from an attendant in your train car. Regular stops are made at stations where food is also available and on some trains many vendors board the train selling chai, cold drinks, crisps and biscuits.

Don't expect pristine western standards anywhere in India, but you'll find AC2, AC3 and AC Chair class fairly clean by Indian standards, with both western-style and squat toilets usually reasonable, sanitary conditions. Sleeper Class and second-class toilets may be a different matter! Bring your own toilet paper and soap to wash your hands.

Indian trains are quite safe to travel on, even for families or women traveling alone. Although the theft of luggage is rare, for peace of mind it’s advised that you take along a chain and padlock to secure your bags. You can acquire chain and padlock at all Indian rail stations.

Generally, Indian Railways are very efficient, but Indian trains do run late—sometimes hours late. Make sure you have something to occupy your time while waiting for your train. Bring a good book or magazine to read, or music to listen to. It’s advised you bring snacks and water for the journey.

Road

Traveling by road in India or Nepal is certainly not what people are used to in Western countries. Rules of the road are not always followed: drivers will speed, do not stay in their lanes, will drive recklessly creating dangerous situations, rarely use their mirrors or will not drive with their lights on at night time. The horn however is used very frequently and can range from the latest Bollywood tune to Britney Spears! In India, although the government is investing large sums of money improving the road infrastructure, the road system still has a lot of work that needs to be done to it. As a result, in both India and Nepal, some of the roads are poorly maintained, pot holed and uneven. This gets even more pronounced particularly during and after the monsoon. Travel time covering relatively short distances is very long in comparison to Western countries.

Joining Instructions:

When arriving at the airport in New Delhi taking a cab is the most convenient way to get to your hotel. Because taxi drivers are famous for tampering with their meters and overcharging, use the prepaid taxi service offered at the airport - you can make the arrangements at designated counters outside the baggage-claim area of the domestic terminals and international terminal. Unfortunately scammers have set up similar services, so make sure the counter is operated by the Delhi Traffic Police. Your destination, the time of your arrival and the amount of luggage determine the rate, which you pay in advance at the counter, but should be between INR200-300. Take the receipt and locate your assigned taxi. Taxis are black with yellow tops and have yellow number plates. Once you get into the taxi, don't give the driver the payment slip until you reach your destination. If the driver demands more rupees, politely refuse, although if they have driven safely you may like to tip INR10-20.

Be aware too, that touts at the airports, even at hotel-reservation counters, may try to trick you into booking a hotel room by claiming that your prior reservation is invalid. Ignore them.

If this is your first trip to India an arrival transfer is recommended. If you have paid for an arrival transfer when you booked your trip our driver/local operator will be waiting for you with a Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. sign with your name on it. Once you exit baggage claim, watch for our driver/local operator in the arrival area. Our representative for Airport transfers is Mr. Nagarjuna Rao and his mobile number is (+91) 99274 65808.

Laundry:

Laundry facilities are offered by some of the hotels for a small charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

Visas:

Please note that visas for India are the responsibility of the individual traveler. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. For the most up-to-date information please check your government’s foreign ministry website or with you travel agent as rules do change. It is important that you check for yourself. For most travelers there is probably an embassy and or consulate in the country that you live in.

Standard Indian tourist visas are good for 6 months with multiple entry points and exit points. They are not available at port of entry AND must be obtained in advance.

Money Exchange:

The currency exchange rates in Asia fluctuate often so the best thing to do is visit this website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com As of March 2009 the exchange rate for INDIA was 1 USD = 48.45 INR (Indian Rupees). There are many ATM machines that accept both Visa and MasterCard but these are limited to major cities. We also recommend the use of cash and travelers checks in USD currency. Major currencies that are readily accepted by private money exchangers and banks are US Dollar, Australian Dollar, Euro, Pound Sterling, Canadian Dollar etc. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops but they may charge a 2-4% transaction fee.

Tipping for guides, drivers, porters etc:

It is customary in Asia to tip service providers such as waiters approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is expected - though not compulsory - and shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. You may do this individually, or your Tour Leader will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from USD 2-4 per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your tour leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. Also at the end of each trip if you felt your Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. Tour Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline USD20-25 per person, per week can be used.

Departure Tax:

All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket.

Health:

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In Asia pharmacies tend to stock the same western drugs that you can purchase at home but they are usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to purchase a prescription drug. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. For travelers over 70 years a completed Medical Form is required. Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. reserves the right to exclude any traveler from all or part of a trip with or without partial refund if in the reasonable opinion of our group leader they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.

Safety and Security:

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. We also strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while traveling, for the safe keeping of your passport, airline tickets, travelers' checks, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelry at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please 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. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities. 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 options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer 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. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.

Water-based activities while exciting, can be dangerous. Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. recommends only participating in water-based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water-based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. It is Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. policy not to allow our Tour Leaders to make arrangements on your behalf for water-based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).

Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk.

Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. takes all prudent measures in relation to your safety.

A Couple of Rules:

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any 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 Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. travelers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. 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 they use prostitutes.

Responsible Travel:

Being a responsible tour operator is at the heart of what Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. is all about. From the start, Classic Holidays has been committed to offering low-impact tours that benefit traveler and host alike. While our sustainable tourism policies are constantly evolving, our commitment to socially conscious, grassroots-style travel has never changed. We work with local communities, businesses and individuals to develop sustainable tourism opportunities that help local economies while minimizing negative environmental and cultural impacts.

Here are a.

-Bring rechargeable batteries, a battery charger and plug adapter if necessary. Batteries are incredibly toxic and many places that we travel cannot properly dispose of used batteries. Rechargeable batteries are the best solution, however if you cannot use rechargeable batteries, then please bring your used batteries back home with you for proper disposal

-If you want to shoot a photograph with people in their own element, or in a situation during your travels, please ask for their permission prior to taking the photograph. As a stranger, it’s only polite to ask before shooting. People do not like photographs taken of children without asking for permission first.

Local Dress:

In Asia the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of Asian summers. In predominately Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim countries we ask that you respect their customs and dress appropriately. Short shorts or skirts, singlets/tanktops and other “risqué” clothing is inappropriate when visiting small rural communities, temples, mosques or other holy sites.

India is very conservative and you should dress accordingly. As a general guideline shoulders and knees should be covered at all times. You may wear shorts however you may be denied entry into buildings of a religious nature and family homes. A lightweight water and windproof jacket is useful and a hat to shade your face is essential.

NB: WE STRESS THAT IT CAN BE VERY COLD IN THE HILLS DURING THE MONTHS FROM DECEMBER TO FEBRUARY.

NB: 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 of your family, home, city, animals to discuss.

What to Take:

What you need to bring depends on the trip you have chosen and the regions you are planning to visit. We suggest that you pack as lightly as possible as you are expected to carry your own luggage during your travels. As a rule we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bag which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 10-15kg/22-30lb. Suitcases can be brought for Classic Holidays trips! Most travelers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size (no XXL ones please!) as they need to fit under the beds when travelling on sleeper trains. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other electronics like ipods and mobile phones. If your trip involves overnight home stays, villages or camping then you usually have the opportunity to rent sleeping bags if need be instead of bringing them with you.

Checklist:

• Passport (with photocopies)
• Travel insurance (with photocopies)
• Airline tickets (with photocopies)
• USD cash and travelers cheques
• Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
• Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. Vouchers (Will be given at the time of arrival in India)
• Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
• Day pack for daily personal items
• Lock for all bags
• Wet wipes / Moist towelettes
• Alarm clock
• Flashlight
• Sun hat, Sun block, Sunglasses
• Insect Repellent
• Water bottle and Plastic mug for train journeys
• Ear plugs for train journeys or light sleepers
• Small towel and swim wear
• Toiletries (biodegradable)
• Sturdy walking shoes/Sport sandals
• Money belt
• Shorts
• Long trousers
• Hiking pants/track pants
• Shirts/T-shirts
• Warm clothes for November-February. Fleece jacket, hat and gloves
• Umbrella or waterproof jacket.
• Cover for backpack or plastic bags to keep clothes dry.
• Camera and film
• Reading/writing material
• Binoculars
• Pocketknife
• First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking).

Tips to enjoy safety trip

First things first

There are a number of things that you should do before leaving home to help you have a safe and enjoyable travel experience:

• Take copies of your passport and other important documents with you. This way, if you lose your documents, you can at least present a copy to your embassy or consulate while abroad and have replacement or temporary travel documents issued. A tip we received from one of our seasoned travelers was to scan the documents, and send them to your e-mail. That way you have additional access to them on-line.
• We suggest registering your travel plans with your embassy or consulate before leaving home. Should a serious event occur, your Government will be able to make contact and account for you.
• Take out appropriate insurance. No one ever expects an injury or accident to happen. However, we have a number of unfortunate stories from travelers and they usually start with: “I never expected…”
• Leave a copy of your itinerary with friends or family.

Transport

The travel experience will expose you to many different types and forms of transport. While you’ll have a chance to enjoy the different means of travel, you need to be aware of any possible dangers associated with those modes of transportation. Some of these may be familiar to you and just a matter of commonsense, and some may not. We’ve listed below the top 5 tips received from experienced Classic Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. travelers:

Air travel

• Pay attention to the in-flight briefing. It may seem monotonous or boring to those who travel often, but in the event of an emergency, you will need to know how to exit the airline quickly and safely.
• Count the rows to the emergency exit. Because in case of an emergency, lighting may be reduced or totally off in the plane.
• Don’t drink too much alcohol while flyingl. Cabins are pressurized so the effect of alcohol is stronger than normal.
• Listen to the flight attendants. They are primarily there for your safety.
• Keep your seatbelt fastened. Turbulence can occur at anytime.

Buses and trains

• Keep your personal belongings in your sight, or preferably on you.
• A lock placed on your luggage zippers is a good deterrent to a would-be thief.
• Watch for uneven, slippery surfaces or other obstacles as you enter and exit the vehicle.
• Remain alert to your surroundings. Be aware of distractions, as they may be opportunities for pickpockets.
• Know your stop and be ready to get off.

Taxies

• If you are staying at a hotel, have them call you a taxi, rather than waive one down on the street.
• Use taxies from a taxi stand where possible because only registered operators may use a taxi stand.
• Keep your belongings at your side or feet. If you need to exit quickly they will be easily accessible.
• If in an emergency situation, leave your bags. You can run faster without them and items can be replaced.
• Check the Identification of the driver before getting in. It should be prominently displayed in the vehicle if it is a legitimate taxi.

Water transport

• Listen to the safety briefing. You will need to know what to do in an emergency.
• If a lifejackets is supplied, use it.
• Always have at least one hand free to hold onto something to help with your balance during choppy waters.
• The sun reflects off the water, so make sure you have applied adequate sunscreen lotion.
• Take medication for seasickness prior to boarding – it may take some time to become effective.

Accommodation

Your accommodations are generally considered a safe haven for weary travelers, however most thefts and accidents occur at the hotel or other accommodation. To increase your personal safety follow these safety tips:.

• When arriving, stay with your bags until they are transferred from the taxi or bus to the Lobby.
• Lobby’s can be chaotic places with many people coming and going. Keep an eye on your bags at all times when checking in and out. The busy atmosphere is a welcome distraction for pickpockets and thiefs.
• When you enter your hotel room, make sure the door closes firmly behind you and it locks.
• When in your room lock the door, use the security latch, and lock windows and connecting room doors.
• Always use the ‘spy hole’ to see who is at the door before opening it.
• Know the emergency assistance number, and how to operate the phone system.
• Store all unneeded personal items, cash, valuables and travel documents in the in-room safe.
• Take note of the emergency plan on the back of the hotel door. You will need to know how to exit the hotel in case of an emergency.
• Place your room key in the same place each time. It avoids losing it, and you will know where it is in an emergency situation.
• Use the non-slip mats in the shower if provided.

Out and About

One of the great ways to experience a new destination is to simply immerse yourself in the local communities, attractions and the people. However, as in any city around the world, you need to be aware of thiefs and other “shady people” in the local community who prey on the vulnerable. We have received many tips and advise from our travelers on the best way to do reduce your vulnerability, and be safe as you visit and take in those amazing sights. The top 10 ways to enhance your personal safety while out and about include:

• Blend in as much as possible, especially in your dress and appearance. Try to avoid an obvious tourist appearance.
• View maps discreetly. A map identifies you as a tourist, and unfortunately, a target.
• If disorientated, only ask for directions from uniformed officers or persons of obvious authority.
• Stay on well-lit or well-trafficked areas and roads. Danger often lurks in dark and less populated areas.
• Photos are a must when traveling. However, keep the camera discrete. Many ‘point-and-shoot’ cameras will fit in your pocket out of sight when not in use. Do not leave larger ones dangling around your neck, or other places in plain view.
• When withdrawing money from ATMs try to do so during daylight, in well trafficked areas and use machines that are associated with a recognized bank where possible. As with anywhere, protect your personal pin number by covering the keypad from prying eyes with your other hand. Once the cash is withdrawn, take time to ensure it is stashed away safely. Do not do so while walking down the street advertising the fact you are carrying amounts of cash with you.
• Leave excess cash, travel documents, jewelry in the hotel safe, or better yet at home if you don’t need it while away.
• An experienced pickpocket can usually pick a tourist out in a crowd. Wear your purse over one shoulder with the opening flap against your stomach so that it's impossible to get into. If you're carrying a daypack wear it in front, kangaroo style.
• Where possible avoid walking alone – especially at night. Traveling with friends makes you much less of a target.
• Take something with the hotel name and address on it with you like a notepad or matchbox. This way, even if you do not speak the language, a taxi will be able to take you back to the hotel.

Optional Activities

On your Classic Holidays India tour, you will have many included activities. All of the included activities are properly vetted and regularly checked by us. However, there will also be some free time for you to set off on your own. We ask you to use your discretion when considering optional activities directly with suppliers. Safety should always be your key consideration, as it is ours. Ask about their safety practices, history, insurance and emergency plans. Particular attention should be paid when water activities are involved, and always insist on traveling with a guide.

Feedback:

After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that you'll receive a special discount on your next Classic Holidays India trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of returning home.

We Want Your Photos:

If you've got some great photos from your Classic Holidays India travels, we would love to exhibit your photos on our website! We’ll list your name as the photographer.

Keeping in Touch:

If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend that you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road, rather than relying on postal mail. Email cafes are becoming increasingly commonplace and cheap throughout the regions we visit, and have quickly become the preferred way for our leaders and travelers to stay in touch. 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. We recommend that family and friends don't try to contact you through phoning hotels en route, as our hotels are subject to change, and our hotel receptions often don't have English speaking staff. Our 24 hours contact number is +91 99274 65808.