We had been talking about going to India for about ten years. It was to be the trip of a lifetime, a one and only opportunity. After months of reading around the subject we discarded the idea of the usual tourist destinations and besides we were not particularly enthusiastic about group tours and route-marching from one major site to the next. Then I chanced upon an article in The Guardian (a UK newspaper) about homestays in India and how these were an excellent way of meeting ‘the real India’. This sounded more like the sort of thing that we would like to do and after many many hours on the Internet we came across a homestay in the Nilgiris, aaKRiti.

The place sounded perfect, the activities were just right and the pictures just confirmed that here was somewhere we wanted to go. (You can read more about aaKRiti in my TripAdvisor review).

In the ensuing email conversations with Rajat who organises this homestay, he asked what else we were planning on doing and suggested that explorIndya, which he also runs, could help plan our complete trip. We took him up on his offer and over a number of weeks and a series of emails we ended up with an itinerary that took us from Chennai to Madurai to Thanjavur to Mysore to Hassan and then on to the Nilgiris. Apart from arranging our own flights into and out of India everything from touch down to departure was organised by explorIndya. And it was organised with great precision. Rajat sent suggestions of activities and places to go and see, sometimes so many that we had to curb his enthusiasm as we wanted to make sure that the three weeks did not end up as a whirlwind of people, places and things but that we had time to sit and take stock of what we had seen, time to read and write and reflect. And this is what we got.

The whole trip was better that we could have imagined. We had a driver and car at our disposal. We had personal tours by experienced guides, guides who did not spout a series of facts and figures but who told stories and weaved their own version of the enchantments of the temples, the colourful lives of the bazaars, the tales of daring-do and skulduggery, particularly by the British. We heard myriad of Hindu legends, saw the most amazing carvings, climbed the breathtaking steps at Shravalabelagola to see the mighty Jain monument. We cooked upma, samosa, curry, baratha, tadka, and we ate - and ate and ate! We walked and saw deer, tree squirrels, monkeys.

And most importantly we met people. Villagers, townsfolk, market traders, hotel employees, train travellers; all were happy to talk, wanted to know where we came from, what our names were, could I take their photograph. It is the people that make the country and in India we found nothing but warm, welcoming smiles, invitations to have a cup of tea and small acts of kindness: a flower for my wife, a fruit to taste or a piece of jaggery to sample.

The three weeks flew by in one sense but in another, time stretched to take in the large number of things we did. This was a brilliant experience and one that we could not have hoped to have arranged ourselves. A friend who had been to India several times suggested that we just booked the flights and the first hotel and then decide what to do and where to go when we arrive but we decided that that would have been fine in our twenties, just carrying a backpack and no worries. Four decades older we were aware that we needed some creature comforts guaranteed, some structure laid out before us and perhaps keep the surprises for the activities and not for the ‘where shall we go next’ which could easily lead to disappointment and regret.

So a company like explorIndya allows you the opportunity to plan your own trip with someone on the ground, someone who can arrange for you to be picked up at the airport, taken to your hotel, making sure all is in order. Someone who collects you the next day to meet a guide who gives you a tour of things off the beaten track, someone who knows the locality, who can advise on where to eat, what to ask for in a coffee shop, how to drink water Tamil Nadu-style without pouring it down your front and who will answer the endless questions that a couple of eager visitors are continually firing.

explorIndya gave us the opportunity to see a wide variety of culture and tradition across Tamil Nadu and southern Karnataka. As well as scratching at the surface of the history, the religions and the way of life, we also became very aware of the environmental concerns, concerns that are on such a large scale that the size cannot easily be grasped. Rajat and his family are very clear about the need to promote and support the maintenance of the lands for the elephant, the tiger and for the small tribes that continue a way of life little changed for centuries, people who live in harmony with their environment and from whom we can learn a lot. This is the important message to take from a trip like this. Any amount of sightseeing pales into insignificance when the habitat of the tiger and elephant is under threat.

Rajat and Rupa put together a really good package. The hotels were a mix of the traditional western style to small guest houses (La Villa in Mysore is excellent and highly recommended); the drivers were excellent, the guides too. As a package it cannot be faulted. Our once-in-a-lifetime trip is the best thing we have ever done. However by the end of the first week we had made our minds up that this should not be once-in-a-lifetime. We shall return - and we shall return using explorIndya.

Our seven- week tailor- made trip through the south of
India already began at home talking to Rajat planning our itinerary and
requests together via Skype. We felt like we had known each other for a long
time. Rupa and Lalith welcomed us like friends in Mumbai. Rupa, a celiac
herself, sent us an Indian Celiac Guide. Both Rupa and Rajat asked us regularly
about our wellbeing, and whether we felt at ease with the gluten free Indian
dishes. The chefs or chefs de service of the hotels or resorts were mostly
informed about my husband’s diet which was really helpful.

After five
perfectly organised weeks in all aspects across Tamil Nadu, Kerala und
Karnataka, we finally met the lovely Kumar family, who welcomed us in their
homestay like family members who had come back from a long journey. The round
trip continued in the same quality afterwards. 

Rajat and
Rupa took us to marvellous places and amazing sites far away from the beaten
tracks, where we learnt a lot about former and contemporary India, and where we
met interesting, very engaged and open-minded people.

Last but
not least: ExplorIndya keeps their promise in terms of ecological and social
sustainability. All the properties were engaged in at least one ecological
aspect, and we very much appreciated that most of the properties had a tip box.
Thanks a lot for your engagement.

Our seven- week tailor- made trip through the south of
India already began at home talking to Rajat planning our itinerary and
requests together via Skype. We felt like we had known each other for a long
time. Rupa and Lalith welcomed us like friends in Mumbai. Rupa, a celiac
herself, sent us an Indian Celiac Guide. Both Rupa and Rajat asked us regularly
about our wellbeing, and whether we felt at ease with the gluten free Indian
dishes. The chefs or chefs de service of the hotels or resorts were mostly
informed about my husband’s diet which was really helpful.

After five
perfectly organised weeks in all aspects across Tamil Nadu, Kerala und
Karnataka, we finally met the lovely Kumar family, who welcomed us in their
homestay like family members who had come back from a long journey. The round
trip continued in the same quality afterwards. 

Rajat and
Rupa took us to marvellous places and amazing sites far away from the beaten
tracks, where we learnt a lot about former and contemporary India, and where we
met interesting, very engaged and open-minded people.

Last but
not least: ExplorIndya keeps their promise in terms of ecological and social
sustainability. All the properties were engaged in at least one ecological
aspect, and we very much appreciated that most of the properties had a tip box.
Thanks a lot for your engagement.

I travelled together with my wife and a friendly couple of us by car from Bangalore to Goa. The journey took us almost three weeks. Rajat Kumar was
a great help while planning the itinerary and selecting the hotels according to our wishes. The organisation of the trip was then perfect from the beginning with a warm welcome at the airport to the drop off in the hotel in Goa. Umesh, the driver was very experienced, helpful and driving very carefully in a comfortable
car with enough space. We went from one highlight to the next (Somnatphura, Mysore, Ranganathittu, Wayanad, Nagarhole National Park, Belur, Halebid,
Shravanabelagola, Hampi, Badami, Patadakkal , Bijapur, and Goa). Everywhere we had very competent local guides and excellent hotels. Due to the good planning we had always enough time and could enjoy the places without any stress to our full satisfaction. All four of us came home very happy. We can fully recommend Rajat and Rupa Kumar for what they did for us. We will never forget this trip.
One of the highlights was the dinner with Rajat Kumar and his father in the
Orange County Kabini Lodge. The beautiful travel book specially for us designed by Rupa Kumar is for us a wonderful souvenir. Whenever we go again to India we will ask Rajat to plan and organize the trip.

This was another great holiday in Rajasthan. Our driver Ishwar Singh was a wonderful companion,  The hotels were all excellent, and of course the sense of history was ever present.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



The whole holiday was wonderfully put together and the people that we met made the holiday particularly memorable. Our visit to the Nilgiri Hills, Tamil Nadu, was one of the most memorable parts of our trip. The scenery was spectacular and we were extremely well looked after.



2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?



As long as you tell Rajat what you like from a holiday he will find the perfect combination for you. Definitely visit some of the homestays, it gives you a real insight into Indian culture.



3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?



It definitely benefitted the local people. It was great to not stay in the big hotels and instead visit small homestays and support the local communities.



4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



Excellent. Well organised and just what we were looking for. We were extremely well looked after and would highly recommend Rajat if visiting India.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



There were two very memorable parts of the holiday. First the wonderful home stay in the Nilgiri mountains with Rajat and his family. An unforgettable experience that gave me a deeper understanding of the culture of South India. The second was the overnight trip to Hampi, a truly magical place that I would love to visit again. But everything that Rajat Kumar organized for me was wonderful and he selected the best places to stay and visit.



2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?



I would suggest being very clear about what kinds of experiences you like. Rajat picked lovely western style, modern hotels that were also focused on sustainability. I appreciated the focus on hotels and travel that benefited the local community.



3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?



Yes absolutely!



4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



Excellent, I can't say enough good things about the trip and the experience.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



The whole holiday was a highlight, it really was. Our 3 night stay at the Aakriti homestay with Rajat, Mughda and Renu was really memorable. Such a lovely welcoming family, their hospitality and warmth is out of this world, we really felt like members of the family. The family are educated, open people who really made us feel extremely welcome. Renus' cooking is absolutely delicious she uses all locally-sourced fresh ingredients, she makes her own bread, chutneys, jams, you name it she does it, and it is all incredible. Every day we ate the most amazing food in a lovely family atmosphere. We had good company, lively interesting discussions every evening around the dinner table. This homestay experience really allowed us some insight into everyday life which would normally be very difficult for us to experience. We learned so much about Indian culture, their religion, we tried to get an understanding of their complex spiritual culture, Rajat, Mughda and Renu never tired of answering our endless questions. The homestay is situated in The Nilgiris in Tamil Nadu a beautiful area, the tea plantations are stunning such a relaxing place and we saw a Malabar squirrel.

The houseboat trip was also a highlight, amazing and relaxing, it was brilliant to just watch the world go by, seeing life on the river banks. The stunning scenery, the friendly locals, the children waving as we sailed by. The excellent boat crew, the superb freshly prepared food by the cook this deserves a special mention it was excellent. I do not know how he managed to prepare a six course meal on just two gas rings. Buying fresh fish and tiger prawns from the fishermen for our evening meal it was total luxury. The amazing birdlife and watching the sun set over the waterways with a nice cold Kingfisher beer.

The ayurvedic massage at the heritage hotel Serenity was amazing one of the best massages I have ever had.


2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?



Let Rajat know exactly what you want to do and see, trust him he will go out of his way to accommodate your wishes. Bring binoculars there are so many beautiful birds to see. Take pens with you, that was the number one thing the local children asked for. The locals are warm and friendly, in the towns when shopping, the shop keepers do try and lure you into their shops. If you do not want to, just be firm and friendly they really do not hassle you, they are good natured and leave you to go on your way. Go with a sense of adventure, keep an open mind and just soak up the experience.

3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?



Yes, definitely, we used a local tour company and the accommodations which we stayed in were locally owned and employed local people. We ate in local restaurants bought food and gifts in local shops, we used local guides and drivers. Rajat and his family are very conscious about sustainability and green issues they recycle and are replanting the local forest trees on their own land. They are truly passionate about what they do.

4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



Outstanding. We got in touch with this operator via Responsible Travel. We booked a 14 day tailor made holiday with them because we wanted a holiday organised by people with local knowledge. We wanted a more unique holiday experience, an insight into India, its people and culture and we were not disappointed. From the first contact with Rajat, we experienced a very professional, personal service, we could not have wished for a better travel advisor. Rajat helped and advised us, refining our itinerary and keeping an eye on the costs. He included interesting places and cultural activities all with very good guides. The guide who accompanied us on the tour of Cochin was excellent. The attention to detail in the organisation of our holiday was immaculate. The hotels which were selected were very good. Safe, clean transport was provided, our driver Ragesh (I hope I have spelt it correctly) was very good; he was patient, calm, always smiling, gentle and respectful person. He was a professional driver always punctual, we felt safe and totally comfortable with him during the whole trip. His English was not perfect but we all managed excellently throughout the trip. The whole itinerary was perfect, well balanced between independent and organised activities. The people who make up this operator are really dedicated and full of passion for what they do. A superb holiday with a very well run company. I would highly recommend booking with them, you will not be disappointed. We had an unforgettable holiday. Thank you Rajat.

Our highlights were the experiences with:
- Adventure inland and on water;
- Heritage, culture walks & trails;
- Home-stays;
- Palaces and ruined kingdoms;
- Unique wildlife of the sub-continent

We had specifically asked that our trip allow us to meet local people and learn about the history and cultures of India. In addition to the planned events and excursions, we found our drivers were a great source of information..




Our accommodations were always excellent. Each was quite different, but each was excellent in its own way. We really enjoyed the Wayanad home stay. We felt so very welcome there - almost a part of the family. We were guided through the plantation and a nearby tribal village-it was fantastic. But really, we learned so much and enjoyed so much every single component of our trip.



Our drivers were absolutely excellent. They were extremely helpful and courteous, and very knowledgeable. They were always anxious that we have the best experience. Of all of the parts of our trip, our drivers were the best. Without them we would not have had as good an experience in India. We were there during the harvest time (and some planting); we were very interested in what was going on, and our drivers explained so many things to us. We had three drivers, and each had unique knowledge based on their own cultural backgrounds. They were fantastic.


The guides were excellent. They were extremely knowledgeable and anxious that we enjoy our visit.


We found the people in India very, very friendly and anxious to share their country with us. We had such a warm welcome wherever we stayed. We enjoyed the small hotels, the Rainforest Retreat, the Wayanad home stay, the Vembanad homestay and The Bison the best as we really enjoyed talking with the local people. It was nice to have the occasional large hotel to relax completely, but we will remember the smaller accommodations the most. We were traveling for 12 days, which was a good length of time. Our experiences were varied and each was unique; we really enjoyed each one. I doubt that we will ever have the chance to come to India again, and we wanted to pack as much learning and variation into this one as possible.


We feel that we really got a very good sense of India-the people, the cultures, the religions, the history, the agriculture, the current challenges, etc. It was the trip of a life time. While we are very unlikely to be back (just because there are many other places we would like to travel and we are getting on in years), this was a fantastic experience. I would give it a 5-star rating. Thank you!

Can't pick out the most memorable because we liked it all especially:
- Heritage, culture walks and trails
- Home stays
- Backwaters
- Rainforest treks
- Temple visits
- Markets



We loved the backwaters in Kerala because the houseboat trip was so peaceful. It was more serene and magical than we had imagined.


We loved the homestays because not only were the lodgings just what we wanted – comfortable, clean, but not fancy – but they gave us an opportunity to meet and talk to people about the country of India, its culture, and history, the arts,


The heritage, cultural tours and trails informed us about certain aspects of religion and the history of southern India, in which we were very interested.The rainforest and coffee plantation stays were beautiful. We loved the peaceful surroundings.


We loved all the places where we stayed and the variety of the accommodations. They were just right. Comfortable, and clean, but not overly fancy.. It was also really nice not being with crowds of weseterners just like ourselves! The Aranyakam tree hut was particularly memorable.


YES! Amazing. Rajat was constantly in touch with us. We felt very safe and well cared for. Also, as a mum of four, I wanted to make sure my children could reach me in the case of an emergency. I felt completely comfortable that if they contacted Rajat, he would contact me on their behalf if they were unable to reach me. I can't tell you how comforting that was for me.


Five stars. Simply the best Holiday I've been on! Will definitely return to experience more with you.

My most memorable experience is meeting Ravi and Renu and staying at Aakriti - their kindness, the beauty of their home and how they entertained us - and nursed me!



I loved the teak forest, the tree hut and seeing some animals at Perambikulam And I loved the river and beach and bird-life at Kannur Beach House. The buffalo cart tour in the extraordinary village of Kanadukatan is also memorable. And the waterfront, and shopping emporia, at Fort Cochin.


We loved our holiday! I'll certainly give your address to anyone here who plans a holiday in India.

The most memorable of our Bhutan & India memories were:


- The Tiger's Nest Monastery---the pony riding up through the pine trees and the walk afterwards.
- The Tsechu festivals were wonderful.
- Returning to Aakriti to meet up with our friends again.
The arrangements with our accommodations on this trip were wonderful. Here are our comments about them:


Zhiwaling Paro. Spectacular with lovely helpful staff.



Druk Thimpu. Beautiful rooms but noisy dogs at night time.



Khaila Guest House Bumthang. Probably our favourite. It's unpretentious, homely and friendly and you had the opportunity to meet up with other guests.



Yankhil Resort. Fine. Beautiful views from there.



Dewachen. Great views. Beautiful room. The place had a lot of
charm. Lovely helpful staff and we so appreciated the wood burning stoves(as at Khaila) and just adored the hot water bottles put in our beds whilst we were at dinner!



Ideal Beach Resort. Very nice but slightly more impersonal we felt. Ok though as we were there for one night only.



Maison Perumal. Wonderful work had been carried out on this place. Had the feel of being in a large house and not so much a hotel. Very attentive and kind staff.



Indecco Swamimalai. Long drive out but worth it. Very very interesting and good that the other guests in the place all seemed to be Indian.



Aakriti. Enough said!! So touched that the three of you drove all that way into Coimbatore to meet us.



The trip was really wonderful and deserves all the stars going. We will do our best to promote ExplorIndya with everyone.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



We spent 10 days visiting parts of Kerala - Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady and the Backwaters. Kerala is a very interesting microcosm of India, a state of 35 million, with a mixture of hindus, muslims, catholics, a strong marxist minority, coastal areas, rugged highlands, tea and rubber plantations, a range of spices, lots of other agricultural products. It was fascinating to experience a little part of this remarkable mixture. The visit to the backwaters - which included 24 hours on our boat - was particularly worthwhile. This is an area of lakes, rivers and small canals quite unlike any other we have visited.



2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?



First, book through this operator and its director, Rajat Kumar: very knowledgeable, very competent and very efficient. He was able to understand the kind of holiday we were looking for, and to make proposals for our stay which reflected our interests. Second, do not rush: there is lots to see in Kerala, and if you try to do too much in too short a period, you would be wasting your time and money.



3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?



I find this kind of question to be rather silly: what is really meant by "benefitting local people" and minimizing impacts on the environment". In order to truly minimise impact, the journey should not have been undertaken at all. Aside from the airplane journey, we also had a car, which polluted the environment, but which also gave employment to our chauffeur, and was thereby presumably useful. Properly managed, the tourism industry as a whole can have several beneficial economic and social effects (local employment, local demand for local products, better understanding of cultures etc)and likewise if not managed properly can have several harmful effects (outflow of foreign exchange, distortions in the labour market through payment of high wages, import of food and other consumerables, etc). For our holiday in Kerala, we saw no necessary harmful effects, but that is frankly a very superficial comment.



4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



Most enjoyable. Very well organised, thanks to the tour operator and Mr. Kumar. A rich cultural experience.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



We spent 10 days visiting parts of Kerala - Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady and the Backwaters. Kerala is a very interesting microcosm of India, a state of 35 million, with a mixture of hindus, muslims, catholics, a strong marxist minority, coastal areas, rugged highlands, tea and rubber plantations, a range of spices, lots of other agricultural products. It was fascinating to experience a little part of this remarkable mixture. The visit to the backwaters - which included 24 hours on our boat - was particularly worthwhile. This is an area of lakes, rivers and small canals quite unlike any other we have visited.



2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?



First, book through this operator and its director, Rajat Kumar: very knowledgeable, very competent and very efficient. He was able to understand the kind of holiday we were looking for, and to make proposals for our stay which reflected our interests. Second, do not rush: there is lots to see in Kerala, and if you try to do too much in too short a period, you would be wasting your time and money.



3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?



I find this kind of question to be rather silly: what is really meant by "benefitting local people" and minimizing impacts on the environment". In order to truly minimise impact, the journey should not have been undertaken at all. Aside from the airplane journey, we also had a car, which polluted the environment, but which also gave employment to our chauffeur, and was thereby presumably useful. Properly managed, the tourism industry as a whole can have several beneficial economic and social effects (local employment, local demand for local products, better understanding of cultures etc)and likewise if not managed properly can have several harmful effects (outflow of foreign exchange, distortions in the labour market through payment of high wages, import of food and other consumerables, etc). For our holiday in Kerala, we saw no necessary harmful effects, but that is frankly a very superficial comment.



4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



Most enjoyable. Very well organised, thanks to the tour operator and Mr. Kumar. A rich cultural experience.

Riding an elephant, feeding watermelon to an elephant, watching elephants being bathed..! Smelling the blossom on coffee plants, seeing a kingfisher ...



It was my first visit to the south of India, though I've been in the north a number of times, and I found the countryside really beautiful. I shall also remember the amazing Hindu Temples we visited



***** - Simply one of the best Holidays I've been on! Would like to return to experience more with you as the trip was extremely well designed for our group.

The entire trip was memorable but standout moments for us were:


- the 6km dawn walk in Parambikulam


- the drive to and arrival in Munnar, the elephant ride at Vazhoor


- the canoe journey to our homestay in the backwaters


We felt that the trip was very well balanced and in fact we were pleasantly surprised to find more activities available to us. The accommodation was excellent throughout, everywhere was very comfortable and clean. In general the food was excellent and a highlight of the holiday for us.


We loved our driver Franklin. He was always cheerful in a quiet and polite way. He was very accommodating when we asked to deviate slightly from the itinerary. He frequently made sure that we were happy and had no problems. We found him to be very honest and reliable, he was always early to meet us. We felt very safe with him as our Driver.


***** - Simply one of the best Holidays I've been on! Would like to return to experience more with you.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



There were many facets - sharing the Diwali Festival during a homestay at Aakriti. The choice of hotels and the mixture of interests including an overnight journey on a train.



2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?



The holiday was excellent in fitting a considerable amount of South India into 3 weeks. Check the itinerary to make sure it can be quite hectic at times.



3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?



Yes - local guides and drivers - the majority of hotels were eco concious with more effort than the commercial attitude of leave you towels if you do not want them washed.



4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



Excellent - the only reason I did not do 5 stars is I went to the Galapogas Isles and China a few years earlier.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



My days at the homestay, truly memorable. I did not know what to expect from an homestay in a village up in the Nilgiri hills. What I have found is one of the nicest, most caring and friendly families I have ever met.



2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?



If you are looking for a holiday which gives you an interesting perspective on the local community, this is for you.. Make sure you spend enough time at the homestay.



3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?



A holiday which felt like visiting dear relatives, happily and responsibly living up in the hills.





4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



Excellent, an unforgettable experience. I could not recommend more this holiday operator.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



Probably seeing Tigers which from what I read is not easy, we saw 4 different ones in Bandavgarh National Park, we found South West India much different from the North much greener possibly more relaxed and I have to comment that the food "Everywhere" was excellent.



We were never harrassed or felt under pressure from locals everyone is very friendly. It took a while to finalize our trip details but it was worth the effort and our tour operator and guide was outstanding and everything went according to schedule which on a 21 day trip was an outstanding feat.



2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?



You need stamina we travelled in a reasonable good car for 10 days or so and it begins to loose its romance after too long so brake the trip up. Don't be afraid to wander around and get a feel for the places you visit it will make the adventure a little bit more special.



Watch out for hotel ratings and website pictures they sometimes do not match reality



3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?



Difficult to say, all tours guides hotels etc were provided by locals so probably yes in one sense, we did do a lot of travelling and not sure if that in itself is environmentally friendly but such is life, So it did benefit the local communities we visited and we come home with a much better understanding of the people and their history and culture (and food :)



4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



I think 4/5 reflects our holiday perfectly, we got out of the holiday what we wanted and with the help of our guide Rajat and the team we had some great adventures and lots of wonderful memories and pictures.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



There were several highlights. The Golden Temple at Amritsar, Jairpur's Amber Fort & Palace, the backwaters of Kerala and our homestay in the Nilgiri Hills.



2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?



Not to worry about a thing, as it was organised exactly as we wanted. Rajat & the tour company ensured we were met, guided, and looked after at every aspect of our trip.



3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?



Yes. We specifically asked for accommodation that was NOT international 4/5 star hotels. We stayed at interesting 'Heritage' properties (locally owned) and used local guides/drivers. Our organisers were very keen on sustainability and green issues (e.g. some vehicles we used were powered by bio fuels, grown locally). Also, a lot of our meals were from local produce.



4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



We don't like the 'I am reborn' statement, but we feel we must award the highest mark, as we can't think of any way the holiday could have been bettered. We will certainly recommend this tour operator to everyone we know who are interested in visiting India.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



Being in a bronze idol factory in Swamimalai. Here, was the evidence of the 700 year old tradition for us to see. Unchanged techniques and skills that took no note of Western health and safety standards. We reached Swamimalai early one morning, having travelled from the Homestay, partly by overnight train and partly by skilfully driven vehicle. Not only were we taken to the Coimbature Station to catch the 3:15am train, but Rajat and Ravi insisted on waiting for the train to arrive, and made sure we were settled and comfortable and wouldn't leave until the train left.



2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?



This tour company, tailormade holiday specialists for India are sincere and honest people, who I would recommend to book and arrange your holiday. I would add, though that if you are unfamiliar with your nominated area that you spend plenty of your own preplanning time finding out as much as possible about the districts that you plan to visit. In this way enough time can be put aside to visit the forest reserves and possible wildlife as well as the tea plantations, markets and the hill train.



3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?



The time that we spent with a mahout and his elephant was unforgettable. We also felt that the people at Serenity were particularly gracious. The staff and owners at Phillip Kutty's farm were extremely good. Swamimalai, there was always friendliness and welcome, particularly in the kitchen and dining room. We enjoyed the local musicians' playing. The food that was prepared was fresh and local. We shopped at Fab India, where we purchased clothes that were ethically produced from handloomed fabrics and sewn by Indians.



4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



I found Rajat was flexible with solving unexpected accommodation problems efficiently and he regularly checked by phone or email to make sure everything was continuing to run smoothly.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



Tea tasting, the cookery class and the Ooty train were the most memorable experiences, but we enjoyed the overall chatting and eating with the Kumar family very much indeed.



2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?



Be prepared for a 'total experience' - living and travelling with the hosts. It is very rewarding, but you must buy into the idea of a homestay experience.



3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?



Certainly.



4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



Excellent. A fantastic experience that highlighted the 'real India'. We learned a lot from our hosts and enjoyed being away from the tourist track. Highly recommended.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



The beauty, colour & diversity of the places we visited (despite only having 11 days in India). Arriving in Mysore after flying into Bangalore gave us a wonderful introduction into the bustle and atmosphere of a relatively small Indian city; we loved the amazing market - brimming with flowers, spices, fruit and vegetables and the sumptuous Palace. Some of the journeys we took gave us a fascinating insight into village life and provided an opportunity to see the diversity of the countryside, people and crops in the 3 states we visited.




2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?



Go ahead and book with this operator and don't worry about asking for any specific requirements, places you want to visit etc. Rajat will do his best to oblige and be helpful.




3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?



On the whole. We stayed in heritage hotels and the Homestay, all of which make efforts to be environmentally friendly, limiting electricity usage - for example Malabar House used solar panels for heating . We were struck by Orange County's policy of supporting the local tribespeople who were displaced from the forests, helping them preserve their traditional skills, providing them with employment and education and showcasing their traditions at the hotel. The shop there also sold only fairtrade crafts and products. Our itinerary also included transport by train where the journey was feasible and in the towns we utilised rickshaws and local transport rather than using a tour company car with driver.




4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



We received really excellent service from Rajat. This was our first visit to India and he gave us great advice on where to stay and proposed a realistic itinerary given our short stay there. He ensured that we were met at each point and driven by extremely careful and considerate drivers (with reasonable knowledge of English and the local area). Rajat also took great care over our personal requirements, ensuring these were relayed to the hotels and as a result we received excellent service throughout our trip.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



My friend and I recently spent a wonderful month in India. The trip, completely organised by this tour operator, a travel company owned and run by the Kumar family, comprised 2 weeks in North India taking in the Golden Triangle and Amritsar, and 2 weeks in South India including 1 week at the family homestay in the Nilgiris, clearly the highlight of the trip. The Kumar family is so easy to interact with. While at the homestay Ravi, Renu, Rupa, Rajat and Mugdha gave us their utmost attention from breathtakingly beautiful breakfasts right through to evenings full of remarkable food, animated discussions, fun and laughter.



Every step of the trip went very smoothly and having English speaking guides and drivers made the whole experience very personal. Often the local guides enriched our experiences as they espoused more than mere information, passionately imparting their knowledge and opinions. I can truly recommend seeing India this way.



2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?



This tour operator can organise travel in other parts India so tell them if you are planning to travel elsewhere in the country. They have a wide network of contacts and take great care in customising your trip. It was exciting and comforting to communicate directly with Lalith and Rajat as “people in the know” in India rather than dealing with a “blanket” travel agent from my end. Little surprises in our itinerary such as a tonga ride in Mumbai proved this point. We wouldn't have known to ask for something like this! Also, be honest about your budget. You will surprised what can be achieved! Lalith provided a mix of 3 - 5 star accommodation to fit in with our budget. By using this "mix"� he was able to give us some really great experiences which shouldn't be missed such as the heritage Khandela Havelli in Jaipur. At all times ask their advice and take on their suggestions.



3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?



This operator is a locally owned and run business and utilises other Indian owned/run travel services and local guides. The company proudly operates on an ethic that supports local businesses and organisations.



4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



This tour operator is a highly professional but personal travel service. Lalith, the original organiser was just simply marvellous. Nothing was too much trouble, and when the trip had to be rescheduled Lalith reorganised the changes happily and efficiently. Rajat maintained contact throughout our trip to ensure our safety, satisfaction and comfort at all times. Overall we had the "holiday of a lifetime"�. We can't wait to return and when we do we will be asking this operator to once again look after all arrangements for us.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



Difficult to decide but Chembakolli was a real highlight. The most memorable was the excellent meal cooked in the home of the tour operator, giving us a chance to meet all of his family and gain a first hand insight into Indian life.



3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?



There was direct to local people, since the company was Indian.



4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



We had a very good introductory experience to Southern India; all the arrangements, accommodation, transport and subsistence was of a very high standard.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



It is just not possible to identify one part as the only superlative: all aspects were good and some were just brilliant. Lalith and Rajat understand how to create a tour for 'western' travellers without losing the essence of India



2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?



Feel free to leave all the details to Lalith and Rajat but don't insist on doing too much in one day as they will oblige you... we should probably have gone at a slightly more leisurely pace - but would not have seen as much as we did. [We will know better for next time!]



3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?



Definitely yes: the guides at the particular locations visited were local people selected for their competence but also their needs and other than the inevitable need to use fuel to get from A to B, strong efforts were made to minimise the EI.



4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



Very good and worth repeating.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



So many things about this South India trip were a sheer delight! So very many highlights its really hard to say which part of the skilfully planned trip to mention first. Certainly I can't recommend Rajat's homestay too highly - fantastic home cooking served in the family home. Fresh bread made by Rajat's dad and homemade jams made from fruit harvested from their own garden as well as mouthwatering classic South Indian vegetarian food. I felt very welcome and there was lots of chat, stories and easygoing banter. Real willingness to listen to what I most wanted to do and make flexible plans to accommodate my wishes. Discussion about local wildlife led to a spontaneous drive up to a nearby reservoir and a magical evening walk into the dense pine forest stillness to see Malabar squirrels with faces like Koala and glorious bushy tails. Other highlights: getting my hand decorated with henna by Rajat's sister, including a lush mango and peacocks.



Stunning trip down from the high tea growing hills of Ooty down into the foothills on a steam train with open windows and monkeys appearing like magic out the the trees at every stop. And I now know I have been over-boiling the water for my tea and after a fascinating visit to a local tea plantation and factory - I will never buy 'basic British rail tea again! (Life's too short). Although I found I really did not want to leave the homestay, the rest of the trip produced a number of delights - particularly India's wildlife. Somehow I hadn't taken on board how easy it would be to see wild elephant, mongoose, wild boar and exotic birds. Sipping a cool drink on the veranda at a resort near Nagoli Nature Reserve whilst watching the huge red globe of the sun dip into the lake whilst listening to a Minor bird calling from the thatched palm roof of my jacuzzi hut.



2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?



Do take the opportunity Rajat offers to really tailor your holiday to include your favourite things. He came up with a number of proposals and in the end I couldn't resist the birdwatching, the steam train trip and the visit to the fabulous carved temples in Hassan. The Bird Sanctuary just outside Mysore was pretty amazing too -masses of nesting Stork, night Heron, Pelican and little crocodile basking on the rocks. Worth it just to hear the sound! Don't worry so much as I did about mosquitoes medicine if travelling to the same area at the same time of year (early March)! I bought lots of sprays but didn't see any Mosquitoes at all in the 2 weeks I was in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Mumbai.



Do hand over any driving to an experienced Indian national!! If you have ever read the Harry Potter stories and encountered the 'Night Bus' which can shrink to "squeeze" through oncoming traffic - then you have some idea what you are in for. Unbelievable - but quite exhilarating if you can give into it and if your nerves can withstand the abrupt breaking upon approaching myriad unmarked speed bumps before creeping over and speeding away again. Coffee Day, a chain of what appears to be India's version of Starbucks or Costa is good for coffee but watch out for the innocuous looking wraps. I had the hottest wrap I've ever encountered in my life there.



3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?



The Homestay used solar heating to supply the hot water for showers. the food was homegrown or local and the family are keen environmentalists who have planted a series of local tree saplings in their garden as a step towards there being more indigenous trees in the local area. In all the accommodation booked for me attempts had been made to reduce the impact on the local environment and encourage guests to reduce laundry and production of rubbish etc.



4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



I would certainly rate this holiday very highly and recommend it to anyone with an appetite for vivid colours, for anyone who likes life a la carte rather than standard table d'hote, and for anyone who likes to ask those 'why?' and 'how?' questions - rather than 'when?' or 'how much?' The homestay opportunity gives a refreshing opportunity to ask those sorts of questions which were fielded with gentle openness and humour by Rajat and his family and this adds so much to the adventure.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



By far our stay with the Kumar family who could not have offered us more hospitality. We all agreed that this was the highlight of our holiday and has ensured we will return, hopefully with more friends who can share our experiences.



2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?



Decide what you want to include and trust in your tour organiser to find suitable accommodation, transport, guides etc.



3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?



Yes, we made a point of meeting with local people and sharing experiences with them.



4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



Ranks right at the top of memorable holidays - simply fantastic.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



At the end of a long, hot day, exploring the lost capital of Hampi and its many temples and royal buildings. As the sun began to set the State Director of Tourism turned up with his family, and brought with him an expert on playing the musical pillars of the dancing hall of the Vittala temple. Our guide was ecstatic to hear them played again, as this had been forbidden for over a year. A truly magical chance moment for us all.



2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?



For women, I would point out that Indian ladies, of whatever religious persuasion, or none, do not generally show anything of their legs, or their shoulders (midriffs are optional!).



When touring round the temples, particularly, many of which are active religious centres, I felt more comfortable in long skirts or trousers. For men, shorts in town are similarly a bit difficult (especially in hot weather) but bare legs would usually denote a lower caste person so bear it in mind. Take a universal sink plug - they were a rarity. Take travel wash, because although washing services are universal and cheap, one is rarely in one place long enough to employ them, and we were reliably informed that in any case the dhobi wallah will smash your buttons on the rock!



3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?


Yes - within the constraints of a touring holiday, with limited local infrastructure. The organisers were conscious of trying to meet these objectives; they always chose local guides rather than those offered by the big tour companies whose English may have been easier to understand, but who certainly would not have had the in depth knowledge of those who guided us. Rajat's family are brilliant recyclers and are actively replanting the local forest trees on their own land.




4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



This was a wonderful introduction to India. Our two young guides, Rajat and his brother-in-law Lalith, were conscientious, sensitive to western prejudices and expectations, informative, knowledgeable, tireless, good humoured - and always delightful company. Rajat had worked out a well-balanced tour, with temples, nature, history, culture, religion and politics in almost equal measure. One felt one could ask him about anything that puzzled us, and would get a reasoned answer explaining all. A week after saying goodbye we are still mulling over all we have seen and done.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?



The wide range of experiences - wildlife, nature, culture, shopping and personal service we received, especially being made so welcome by the whole family.



2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?



Take advantage of your hosts' willingness to customise/personalise your holiday. Engage with Rajat and Lalith before you set off and do some research before you go.



3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?



We hope so. We even did our bit by planting and adopting a native tree.



4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?



Fantastic. Not a single day wasted. Can't wait to go back again!