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Colorful India & the Ganges River with Southern India & Varanasi 2023

Operator
Globus
Days
18
From
USD $9,650
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Dates & Prices

*Please Note: Internal Flights are not included in the price.
Start Date End Date OffersBrochure
Land Price
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From
Wednesday,
Oct 25, 2023
To
Saturday,
Nov 11, 2023
Deals$9,650Get Lower PriceGet Quote
* Internal Flights are not included in the price

Promotions

LOW UNPUBLISHED PRICES ON GLOBUS TOURS

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Up to $500 Welcome Back Credit

Mention Promo Code: PT7214
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Up to $500 Welcome Back Credit

Up to $500 Welcome Back Credit

Promotion Details
With the Welcome Back Credit, the more you travel, the more credit you earn toward future vacations. You can easily redeem your Welcome Back Credit towards a future Globus or Cosmos tour, or use your credit to experience a Monograms package or Avalon Waterways river cruise. In addition to the Welcome Back Credit program, if your plans changed, you could also be holding onto additional travel credits through a Letter of Credit and Peace of Mind Bonus Credit. The credit amount is based on the overall value of your vacation, from a $100 - $250 credit per person.
Must Book By Sun, Dec 31, 2023
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The Welcome Back Credit is awarded upon completion of Globus family of brands vacations. Credit amount can only be applied to the land/cruise or cruise only portion of a new Globus family of brands vacation (excluding 2022 Oberammergau, Monograms City Getaways, and Custom/Charter vacations). Credit amount is per person and must be redeemed for a future vacation with a deposit within 2 years from date of credit issue. Bookings can be made by calling the Globus family of brands, online, or by contacting your preferred travel advisor. Passenger must activate redemption credit prior to redemption. Combinable with all applicable consumer promotions except those with any Globus family of brands special discount programs. Credit must be applied before final payment on a future booking. Credit is not redeemable for cash, non-refundable deposit, airfare, transfers, travel insurance, prepaid gratuities, pre/post nights, or optional excursions and is non-transferrable. All federal, state, and local laws and regulations apply. Valid for all participating Globus family of brands offices. Additional restrictions may apply.

Itinerary

Tour Itinerary

Enter a world of color, culture, and cherished spiritual tradition of India. Your guided tour of India and Ganges River cruise begins in the Southern India city of Cochin, where you’ll take a cruise on the backwaters of Kerala to witness life along the scenic and serene waterways. Explore Mumbai, home to “Bollywood,” and Varanasi, to watch the Hindu’s devotional bathing in the Ganges. Continue on to the bustling city of Delhi. You’ll tour the city with your expert local guide, and take a rickshaw ride through the Chandni Chowk bazaar—brimming with everything from silver and spices to saris of every color. You’ll visit Qutub Minar—the world’s largest brick minaret, and see Delhi’s largest Sikh gurudwara (house of worship), before traveling to Agra—site of the legendary Taj Mahal. Join a sunrise excursion to the Taj Mahal—the iconic memorial build by Moghul emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife. More than 20 years in the making, the Taj Mahal stands as the pinnacle of love’s devotion, and is also yours to experience at sunset if you wish. In Jaipur, see the famous Palace of the Winds, and tour the spectacular Amber Fort, before flying to Kolkata to board your Ganges river cruise. The holy river of Hinduism, the Ganges, slowly courses through one of the world’s most fertile and populated areas. Along its banks, human life is connected to its waters and you’ll get a glimpse of life away from India’s big cities. See muslin weaving in Kalna and candy making in Matiari. Stop in Murshidabad for an excursion to Azimganj and Jiaganj—to tour a historic mansion and see a gold and silver making demonstration You’ll also visit the fascinating Hare Krishna headquarters in Mayapur, and visit Saint Mother Teresa’s former home upon your return to Kolkata. All of this and more await you on this once-in-a-lifetime guided tour of India and a Ganges River cruise.

Countries Visited

India

  1. Day 1
    COCHIN, INDIA
    Welcome to Cochin, the “Gateway to Kerala,” India’s southernmost state known for its natural beauty. Your hotel room is available for mid-afternoon check-in.
  2. Day 2
    COCHIN
    Your Guided Tour starts with a visit to the Kerala Folklore Museum which aims to educate people about the unique culture and heritage of South India. Then, drive out of the city to embark an unforgettable afternoon Cruise on the backwaters of Kerala. Explore and witness local life along these serene waterways surrounded by lush palm trees and paddy fields.

    (B,L)

    Meals:   Breakfast   Lunch
  3. Day 3
    COCHIN–MUMBAI
    Today, fly to Mumbai, a multicultural metropolis with a colorful history. This vibrant city is now India’s premier seaport, center of culture and industry, and home to the “Bollywood” movie industry.

    (B)
    Meals:   Breakfast
  4. Day 4
    MUMBAI
    Your Guided Tour starts with an orientation for photos at some of the cities famous sites, including Victoria Terminus and the Gateway of India. Then, witness Mumbai’s fascinating tiffen lunch box delivery system. At Churchgate Station, the dabbawalas (box carriers) transfer the lunch boxes onto a wooden cart on a local train. Board the train for the short ride to Mahalaxmi Station where you’ll disembark and watch the boxes being sorted by color for final delivery. Lastly, stop to see a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat) and visit Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. After lunch, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.

    (B,L)
    Meals:   Breakfast   Lunch
  5. Day 5
    MUMBAI–VARANASI
    Fly to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities. Early this evening, witness the Ganga Aarti (spiritual worship) on the ghats (steps) leading down to the sacred Ganges River.

    (B,D)
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  6. Day 6
    VARANASI–DELHI
    Around dawn, board a Boat Excursion and watch a striking religious ritual—the Hindus’ devotional bathing in the Ganges. You’ll observe hundreds of pilgrims gathered at the river’s edge, some practicing yoga, others meditating, and still others bathing fully clothed. Return to your hotel for breakfast and some time at leisure prior to flying to Delhi.

    (B,L)
    Meals:   Breakfast   Lunch
  7. Day 7
    DELHI
    Saris, Spices, and Silver

    CLASSIC Today’s Guided Sightseeing starts with an orientation to see the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace. Afterward, take a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, a captivating local bazaar—with its ancient alleyways lined with quaint shops offering everything from silver and saris to spices and electronics.

    After lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy a bit of leisure time. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a lavish welcome dinner at your hotel.

    (B,L,D)
    Meals:   Breakfast   Lunch   Dinner
  8. Day 8
    DELHI–AGRA
    Monuments of Worship and Remembrance

    CLASSIC This morning, take a Guided Excursion to visit Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest brick minaret, dating back to the 11th century. Next, visit Humayun’s Tomb and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Delhi’s largest and most prominent Sikh gurudwara (house of worship).

    After lunch, drive to Agra and settle in at your hotel.

    (B,L)
    Meals:   Breakfast   Lunch
  9. Day 9
    AGRA
    Love’s Crowning Achievement

    CLASSIC Start your day with a Sunrise Excursion to the incomparable Taj Mahal—Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan’s memorial to his beloved wife—more than 20 years in the making.

    CLASSIC Later, take a Guided Tour to Agra Fort, built by the Moghul Emperor Akbar. This formidable fortress of red sandstone conceals the imperial city of the Moghul rulers and its many palaces.

    For those interested, an excursion to the Taj Mahal at sunset is included.

    (B,D)
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  10. Day 10
    AGRA–JAIPUR
    Welcome to the Pink City

    Travel to Jaipur—the “Pink City” that was painted pink for the Prince of Wales’ 1876 visit.

    After lunch, enjoy the afternoon and evening at your leisure.

    (B,L)
    Meals:   Breakfast   Lunch
  11. Day 11
    JAIPUR
    A Maharaja’s Marble Palace and Gateway to the Stars

    CLASSIC Today, join a Guided Excursion to Jaipur’s spectacular Amber Fort, built entirely of white marble and red sandstone, and featuring intricate mosaics, carvings, paintings, and mirror works.

    CLASSIC This afternoon, take a Guided Tour of the City Palace and the adjoining museum, which houses a collection of rare manuscripts. Also, stop at Jantar Mantar, a fascinating astronomical observatory built in the early 18th century.

    (B,D)
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  12. Day 12
    JAIPUR–KOLKATA (EMBARKATION)
    Welcome to West Bengal. Your Ship Awaits.

    Fly to Kolkata this morning to transfer to your ship. Get acquainted with the ship prior to your welcome reception this evening.

    AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO KALNA

    (B,L,D)
    Meals:   Breakfast   Lunch   Dinner
  13. Day 13
    KALNA
    Rituals, Rickshaws, and Muslin Weavers

    DISCOVERY Ride on cycle rickshaws during your Guided Exploration of Kalna. Along the way visit the historic terracotta temple complex and receive blessings from the temple priest. Also visit a muslin-weaver’s home.

    Enjoy a free afternoon on board your ship.

    AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO MATIARI

    (B,L,D)
    Meals:   Breakfast   Lunch   Dinner
  14. Day 14
    MATIARI
    Sweet Shops and Shiny Brass

    DISCOVERY Join a Guided Walk through the village of Matiari where fascinating scenes of everyday life unfold in front of you. Stop to see how traditional sweets are made and explore the local produce market. The village is best known for brass-making and you’ll see how scrap metal is recycled to make figurines and functional items such as tea sets and vases. For the final step, watch a talented craftsman delicately hand-hammer intricate patterns into the brass.

    Enjoy a free afternoon onboard your ship.

    AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO MURSHIDABAD

    (B,L,D)
    Meals:   Breakfast   Lunch   Dinner
  15. Day 15
    MURSHIDABAD. EXCURSION TO AZIMGANJ & JIAGANJ
    Silversmiths, Tea Service, and Silk Sarees

    DISCOVERY Guided Sightseeing brings you to two towns on opposite sides of the river. In Jiaganj, travel by electric rickshaw to see the art of Baluchari saree weaving. In Azimganj, walk through the local crafts market and explore Bari Kothi, a former residence that has been restored to its former grandeur after being abandoned for over half a century. You’ll also witness a silver- and gold-making demonstration.

    Relax this afternoon onboard your ship.

    AFTERNOON/EVENING SAILING TO MAYAPUR

    (B,L,D)
    Meals:   Breakfast   Lunch   Dinner
  16. Day 16
    MAYAPUR–GUPTIPARA
    A Holy Pilgrimage on the Ganges

    CLASSIC Your Morning Excursion brings you to the fascinating ISKCON campus at Mayapur, the worldwide headquarters of the Hare Krishna movement. Your guided tour of the campus and main temple will introduce you to the Hare Krishna philosophy and life on campus.

    DISCOVERY This afternoon, climb aboard a Rickshaw (Toto) for your visit to the small riverside village of Guptipara. Along the way, see pottery and idol making. You’ll also visit a farmer’s home to interact with the family.

    AFTERNOON/EVENING SAILING TO KOLKATA

    (B,L,D)
    Meals:   Breakfast   Lunch   Dinner
  17. Day 17
    KOLKATA
    Flowers, Faith, and Victorian Art

    CLASSIC This morning, take a Guided Walk through the colorful flower market. Afterward, focus on the life and work of Mother Teresa who dedicated her life to helping the city’s poor. Stop at her former home prior to visiting Nirmala Shishu Bhavan, a home for orphaned children run by Missionaries of Charity which she founded in 1950.

    CLASSIC After lunch, join a Guided Visit to the Victoria Memorial Museum. Built to commemorate Queen Victoria, the museum houses a beautiful collection of paintings, textiles, weapons, and other artifacts from the Victorian era.

    Tonight, a farewell Dance Performance is presented on the ship.

    (B,L,D)
    Meals:   Breakfast   Lunch   Dinner
  18. Day 18
    KOLKATA (DISEMBARKATION)
    Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

    (B)
    Meals:   Breakfast

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Inclusions

Health and Safety Protocols for Globus Tours

The world is waiting to be rediscovered! And Globus helps you reunite with your favorite destinations through our ongoing commitment to travel with the ease and confidence travelers have come to expect on tour with us. No matter where you travel, our global network of travel experts has you ready to reconnect.

And along the way, we’re step-for step with you to remove the worries and hassles that might make aspiring globetrotters hesitate when taking that first step in discovering dream destinations once again. With exceptional health and safety protocols and on-trip contingency plans for unexpected surprises, Globus travelers see more of the world with more peace of mind.

A SAFE & WARM WELCOME

Globus will conduct tour check-in procedures and pre-trip health screenings to offer guests a safe start and peace of mind throughout the journey. This includes proof of vaccination for all guests.

BLENDING CULTURAL PROXIMITY WITH SOCIAL DISTANCE

There may be times on tour or on the motorcoach when social distancing is required. We will take care in assuring any local guidelines are followed in a safe and comfortable way for our guests. For any cases where masks are required due to local guidelines, we ask that guests bring their own approved N95 (FFP2) masks for their own comfort and safety. Our wireless listening technology enables safe distances between our guests and other travelers during excursions.

FOCUS ON GUEST AND TEAM MEMBER HEALTH

To ensure a healthy environment for each of our guests and our team, our Tour Directors, Local Hosts, and motorcoach drivers are fully vaccinated, and Globus is also requiring that all travelers are fully vaccinated before joining the trips. Additionally, regular guest checks are conducted, and, when required by local guidelines, masks will be worn by our guests and by our team when accompanying guests. In all other cases, masks are optional for guests.

TOUCHING HEARTS, NOT HANDS

Traveling with Globus removes many of the “touch points” of travel, including luggage handling, check in/out, expedited entry into attractions and more. Globus are further reducing risk with hands-free service, meaning all self-services replaced by staff, including buffet meals replaced with table service. Globus will also ensure hand sanitizing is available throughout each trip, on coach and in hotels.

COMMITMENT TO CLEAN

As a part of Globus' commitment to clean, Globus is requiring enhanced cleaning procedures with hotel partners, on motorcoaches, vehicles and throughout every trip, including additional daily disinfecting procedures that go above-and-beyond already strict health and safety procedures.

PARTNERS IN DISCOVERY AND IN HEALTH

Globus has strict health and safety protocols, which have been in place for years, focused on ensuring all aspects of operation- from vehicles and equipment used on trip to excursions and hotel procedures. This process will continue with new, elevated health and safety checks, to maintain their promise that each touch-point on tours and cruises are considered in their commitment to guest and team member well-being.

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Accommodations

Port charges:
$98

Gratuities to Local Guides & drivers are included. (excludes extensions which are to be paid locally).

Avalon offers the opportunity for solo travelers to sail with no single supplement (subject to availability). Please call for single accommodation price. Triples not available.

Cochin: Taj Malabar Resort & Spa
Set on the man made Willingdon Island, the Taj Malabar, Cochin has breathtaking view of Cochin's famous natural harbor and backwaters. A seamless blend of old world charm and new age luxuries, the hotel promises the finest and most unique leisure experiences. It is the perfect place to start any journey through Kerala.
Address:
Willingdon Island
Cochin , India
Mumbai: Taj Mahal Tower, Mumbai
Designed by American architect Melton Bekker, this luxury hotel opened its door to guests in 1973, instantly carving an identity into the cityscape. Indian design elements like Tanjore pillars from the south and arched balconies from 14th century imperial Rajasthan define the hotel. Whether relaxing in your well-appointed suite, luxuriating at the spa, or exploring the city, Taj hospitality assures you'll have a memorable stay.
Address:
Apollo Bunder, Colaba
Mumbai , India
Varanasi: Taj Ganges, Varanasi
Featured among the top hotels in the city, The Gateway Hotel Varanasi is nestled amidst 40 acres of lush gardens. Enjoy their outdoor pool, fitness center, restaurants and bar. De-stress with their rejuvenating Spa therapies. Inspired by the principles and practices of yoga and yogic lifestyle, the unique experiences infuses your mind, body, and soul with positive energy.
Address:
Nadesar Palace Ground Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi , India
Delhi: Taj Palace, New Delhi
Nestled amidst the heart of the historic Indian capital city, the iconic Taj Palace, New Delhi has held a distinguished position amongst the finest hotels of the world for close to four decades. Spread over six acres of lush gardens, the landmark hotel is synonymous with timeless luxury and unmatched hospitality. With panoramic views of the city's verdant protected greens, the hotel offers an inimitable confluence of epitomising elements of Indian art, warm, personalised service and unmatched luxury.
Address:
2 Sardar Patel Marg, Diplomatic Enclave, New Delhi
Delhi , India
Agra: Taj Hotel & Convention Centre
The Taj Hotel & Convention Centre has 239 plush rooms and features views of the Taj Mahal from the rooftop bar. There is also an abundance of dining options, an invigorating spa, and a variety of other amenities to make for an enjoyable stay.
Address:
Taj East Gate Road, Uttar Pradesh
Agra , India
Jaipur: Jai Mahal Palace
Set amidst 18 acres of beautifully landscaped Moghul gardens, this incomparable Palace dates back to 1745 A.D. A masterpiece in the Indo Saracenic style of architecture, it blends spotlight grabbing opulence with tantalizing comforts that transport guests to a world of Rajasthan magnificence. It is located downtown, close to the main shopping center and historical monuments.
Address:
Jacob Rd, Civl Lines
Jaipur , India

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Questions & Answers

Question: How many suitcases can I take with me on my trip?

Each person is allowed one "check-in," and one "carry-on." Remember to take all valuables with you as "carry-on", because electronic equipment, cameras, laptops, jewelry, business documents and money are not covered by the airlines' liability, so always carry them aboard with you.

Question: Is Airfare Included in the Price?

Airfare from your point of origin to and from the trip is not included in the land price.

Globus Tours Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
4.2
Accommodations
3.9
Itinerary
4.3
Professional Staff
4.5
Repeat with Operator
4.2
Value for Money
4

Ratings based off 10258 reviews about Globus Tours - currently showing 15 reviews with comments only

The Globus tour director was excellent. He was very knowledgeable about the areas we visited and kept us occupies during the bus rides. The accommodations were very nice and conveniently located.

Globus is a first class operation. We have never gone wrong in booking a tour with Globus.

This trip to Portugal, Morocco and Spain was wonderful. A great experience from start to finish. Globus Tours are top notch.

It's usually hard to beat our expectations of a trip but Avalon most certainly did it. The atmosphere delivered, the food, the excursions and their wonderful staff made our vacation more than memorable.

Globus always provides very high quality. We were completely satisfied with our experience.

Excellent itinerary, outstanding guide, and a wonderful trip to a delightful country I would strongly recommend.

The tour cities and sites we visited were all great. The pace of the tour was good (not rushed with time to rest, shop or sight see on our own). Our tour director was fabulous (good communicator, knowledgeable, nice sense of humor). Our driver was a wonderful driver, I always felt safe. The extra excursions (I purchased all 4) were excellent and reasonably priced. I will use Globus again.

Globus Escapes are an economical way to travel during the off season. For me, I often prefer the off-season because there are fewer crowds. I especially appreciate the local tour guides in each area.

Great company. Makes traveling so enjoyable.

Globis is a very professional travel operator with exceptional tour directors. In our experience with them they deliver more tha what we expected.

An excellent choice of tour to restart traveling after the long Covid delay!

This was our 3rd tour with Globus and, as with our first 2, they exceeded our expectations.

I enjoyed my tour with Globus very much. The bus was very clean and new and comfortable. The driver was outstanding and our tour guide was excellent. She was very knowledgeable. I loved the itinerary and it was a perfect way to travel. I would use Globus again for a future tour.

Globus Tours was amazing. I plan on using them again.

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