We recently returned from a fantastic 16 day trip to/around Northern India during which we journeyed from city to city, mainly by train, luxury coach and private taxis. This was our first trip to India, so we decided to take a guided tour (rather than our usual self organised trip).
I was somewhat sceptical about joining a trip with many other people, feeling that we would be tied down and herded around without having time to ourselves. However, we needn’t have worried because all the people on our trip were very friendly, convivial and as excited as we were, to be experiencing such a wonderful, interesting and colourful country.
Kamlendra (Kam), our guide, was outstanding and n amazing gentleman, with such wisdom and knowledge about his country. We learnt much about Indian society, community life, its religions and much of its history, particularly around the years immediately post independence. He also had a wonderful sense of humour which helped to make our, sometimes, lengthy journeys between cities, so interesting and funny.
His sense of organisation was perfect and he kept us constantly informed of timings and where we should be at what time. His help was invaluable when it came to finding ATM’s that were safe for us to withdraw cash. He made sure that we felt safe at all times and taught us how to cross a busy street, without being run over!! We also appreciated his negotiation with street vendors on our behalf. A VERY BIG THANK YOU Kam - you made our trip so very enjoyable and stress free.
I feel I would like to mention our wonderful bus driver, Pammie, who amazed us with his skills negotiating the chaotic traffic in and out of the cities, and also his trusty assistant, Davendra, who was so polite, friendly and efficient in keeping us all well hydrated with bottles of water as well as ensuring that the bus was spotlessly clean. What a team!!
Lastly Sanjay, who was our driver during the time we were in and around Shimla and who drove us expertly and safely down the mountain to catch our final train to Delhi for our return journey back home.
The cities that we went to during the 16 days were Delhi, Jaipur, Ranthambore, Bharatpur, Agra, Amritsar, Chandigarh and Shimla. There were so many highlights - too numerous to mention, but by the time we left India we felt that every minute of the trip had been worth it and good value for money.
The trip was so well organised by Titan Travel, through our local agent, Miles Morgan Travel. We would have no hesitation in using both companies for interesting travel in the future.
Many thanks to all who made it a trip of a lifetime for us.