Dazzling Dubai & India
- 2024
- 2023
Exhilarating Dubai plus explore the lost empires of India in Delhi, Agra, the Taj Mahal and the pink city of Jaipur; Optional Extension to Nepal
Overview
Style | Small Group TourTravel with a small, intimate group of no more than 16 likeminded travelers (and often much fewer), escorted by an English speaking guide and/or tour manager for some or all of your journey. (Some exceptions, including special promotional packaged, may accommodate up to 24.) More of these packages
Dedicated tour escorts & guides throughout |
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Departures | January 2024 | Group Size | 16 travelers max |
Themes | History & Culture, City Stays | ||
Activity Level | Moderate | ||
What to Expect | This fast-paced, partially escorted tour includes a reasonable amount of walking or hiking and requires an average level of physical fitness. This tour also includes long scenic drives between destinations, sometimes on bumpy unpaved roads and may have limited rest stops. Travel safely and confidently with our new health & safety protocols. | ||
Already booked? | Find everything you need to know before you go, including information about passport & visa requirements, flights, luggage, and more. |
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Package includes
- Flights
- Coach
- Transfers
- Hotel
- Meals
- Guides
- Round trip flights from NYC via Emirates Airlines including taxes & fees
- 9 nights accommodations in deluxe and superior first class hotels
- 13 meals: 9 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 3 dinners
- All transfers and ground transportation
- Comprehensive touring program including entrance fees in Dubai and India
- Professional, English-speaking tour director in Dubai and India
Optional add-ons
- Optional Nepal post-tour extension
- Flights from Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Houston (IAH), Los Angeles (LAX), Newark (EWR), Orlando (MCO), San Francisco (SFO), Seattle (SEA), and Washington D.C. Dulles (IAD). Request pricing when making your reservation.
Why you'll love it
- Be dazzled twice as you spend three nights in Dubai, then travel to exotic India.
- Enjoy a tour of Dubai's highlights, including the Burj Khalifa, the Bastakiya district, Jumeirah Mosque, the Museum of the Future, and more.
- Meander through the bustling souks and admire the beautiful textiles, spices, and gold.
- Enjoy an exciting jeep desert safari tour with a traditional BBQ dinner.
- Visit India's largest mosque, the Jama Masjid, by bicycle rickshaw and marvel at the red sandstone and marble structure.
- Wake early for a breathtaking tour of the Taj Mahal in Agra.
- Journey to the Abhaneri Village and explore the region's most visited stepwell in all of India, the Chand Baori stepwell.
- Visit the ancient capital of Rajasthan, the Amber Fort.
Itinerary at a Glance
![Dazzling Dubai & India map](https://res.cloudinary.com/friendly-planet/image/fetch/q_auto,f_auto,w_520,c_limit/https://www.friendlyplanet.com/media/gallery/maps/dazzling-dubai-india-big.png)
- 1 Depart USA
- 2 Dubai
- 3 Dubai
- 4 Dubai
- 5 Dubai & Delhi
- 6 Old & New Delhi
- 7 Delhi & Agra
- 8 Agra
- Optional Excursion: Agra Fort, $25
- Optional Excursion: Mehtab Bagh, $20
- 9 Agra, Abhaneri Village & Jaipur
- 10 Jaipur
- 10 Holi Departure: Jaipur & Holi Festival
- 10 Diwali Departure: Jaipur & Diwali Festival
- Optional Excursion: Jaipur City Tour including the City Palace & Jantar Mantar Observatory, $30
- 11 Jaipur & Delhi
Nepal Extension
- 11 Jaipur & Delhi
- 12 Delhi & Kathmandu, Nepal
- 13 Kathmandu, Patan City & Swoyambhunath
- Optional Excursion: Mt. Everest Flyover (purchased locally), $225
- 14 Kathmandu & Bhaktapur
- 15 Kathmandu & Depart Delhi
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Dates & Prices
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 Depart USA
- Check in for your overnight flight to Dubai
Day 2 Dubai
- Arrive in Dubai, meet our representatives, and transfer to your centrally located hotel
- Check-in is at 3:00 pm, or you can add guaranteed early check-in to your reservation
JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai or similar
Full Day ItineraryDay 3 Dubai
- Visit the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world
- Explore the Gold and Spice Market
- Enjoy an abra ride before a walking tour at Bastakiya Al Fahidi District
- Learn about Islamic life in the UAE at Jumeirah Mosque
- See the Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis
- Witness the spectacular Dubai Mall Fountain Show
- Meet your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner
JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai or similar Breakfast & dinner
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast, visit the Burj Khalifa (formerly known as Burj Dubai), which officially opened in 2010 as the tallest building in the world. This miracle of international cooperation and coordination houses a luxury Armani hotel, offices of some of the world's most successful companies, and homes that are as high as the clouds for a lucky few. Take in sweeping city views from the breathtakingly high "At the Top" observation deck.
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Dubai's Gold and Spice Market, where the scents of exotic spices mingle with the glittering gold on display. Immerse yourself in a world of sensory delights as you explore this bustling market and try your hand at haggling!
Glide through Dubai's waterways on a traditional abra as the boatman expertly navigates through the bustling water traffic. Sail past some of Dubai's most iconic landmarks, like the towering Burj Khalifa and the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, in spectacular panoramic fashion.
Later, stop at Jumeirah Mosque to gain insight into Islamic life in the United Arab Emirates during a lecture by one of the Mosque's clerks. Feel free to ask questions!
Wander through the charming alleyways of Bastakya Al Fahidi District on a walking tour that will transport you back in time. As you stroll along the narrow streets, admire the traditional wind-tower architecture, and learn about the district's rich history from your knowledgeable guide.
Enjoy free time to explore and have an independent lunch at Souq Madinat Jumeirah, a vibrant market in Dubai inspired by traditional Middle Eastern architecture. Browse local handicrafts and sample delicious cuisine while taking in stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.
Stop by for Palm Jumeirah, a man-made island shaped like a palm tree, and Atlantis, located on the crescent of the Palm, for photo ops, followed by a drive-by of the glittering Marina Skyline.
End your day with excitement! As the sun sets, the fountain show at the Dubai Mall begins. Water dances in perfect synchronization with music and lights, creating a mesmerizing experience for all who witness it.
Join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.
Day 4 Dubai
- Visit the soaring Dubai Frame, offering incredible city views
- Discover the fascinating exhibits at the Museum of the Future
- Explore the beautiful Miracle Garden
- Set out on an exciting Jeep desert safari with a local BBQ dinner
JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast, today's first stop will take us to the Dubai Frame. The Dubai Frame is a prominent architectural landmark in Dubai. It is a massive rectangular structure that stands at a height of 150 meters and spans across an area of 7,950 square meters. The frame is positioned in Zabeel Park, providing visitors with breathtaking views of the city's skyline.
Next, visit the Museum of the Future, an extraordinary destination where imagination meets innovation. This captivating museum is a testament to Dubai's vision of embracing cutting-edge technology and shaping a better future for humanity. Be immersed in a world of awe-inspiring exhibits, interactive displays, and thought-provoking installations. The museum showcases the latest advancements in science, technology, and innovation across various fields, offering a glimpse into the future.
Step into the Dubai Miracle Garden, an extraordinary garden home to over 50 million blooming flowers, meticulously arranged to create stunning displays that defy imagination. Marvel at the garden's record-breaking displays, including the world's largest flower wall, a spectacle that will leave you awestruck. Immerse yourself in the fragrance of countless floral varieties, from roses and tulips to exotic blooms that perfume the air and evoke a sense of tranquility.
Set out on a desert safari tour, where you'll discover the vastness and stark beauty of the desert surrounding Dubai. Experience an exciting jeep ride over the neighboring dunes. End the day with a traditional BBQ dinner and live belly-dancing entertainment.
Special Notes:
Dubai Miracle Garden is closed from May to October due to weather conditions and will be replaced by a visit to the Butterfly Gardens.
The sand dunes jeep ride is not recommended for people with neck, back or cardiac concerns. Passengers who cannot do the jeep ride will relax at the rest area during this time.
Day 5 Dubai & Delhi
- Transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi
- Upon arrival, you'll be met and escorted to your hotel
Shangri-La Eros Hotel or similar Breakfast
Day 6 Old & New Delhi
- Full day sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi
- Ride by bicycle rickshaw to Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque
- Visit Gandhi Smriti, the Mahatma Gandhi Museum
Shangri-La Eros Hotel or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast at the hotel, board your coach to explore Old and New Delhi. Sprawling on the banks of the river Yamuna, bustling Delhi typifies the soul of India, where many layers of civilizations have flourished for over 3,000 years. Begin at the modern Laxmi Narayan Temple, built in honor of the Hindu goddess of wealth, Laxmi, and her consort, Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the Hindu Trinity. Popularly known as the Birla Temple for the noted industrialist family who built it, Laxmi Naryan Temple was one of the first significant Hindu places of worship open to the lower caste Harijans (untouchables).
Continue to Gandhi Smriti, the Mahatma Gandhi Museum. Drive past the magnificent Red Fort, built in 1648 to symbolize Mughal's power.
Later, ride by bicycle rickshaw to the Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque. Completed in 1656 after six years of work by 5,000 laborers, the red sandstone and marble mosque is considered one of the loveliest houses of worship in the world.
Next, marvel at the Qutab Minar, the world's tallest free-standing minaret at 72.5 m (238 ft) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you'll also find the Iron Pillar, a curiosity thought to date from the 5th century A.D., which has never rusted.
Sightseeing continues in New Delhi, reflecting the legacy the British left behind. Drive past the India Gate, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The 42-meter high structure is a war memorial for the Indian soldiers who died in World War I and the Afghan Wars. Burning in a shrine under the arch is the Amar Jawan Jyoti (the flame of the immortal warrior), which marks the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Proceed to the Parliament building and the Rastrapathi Bhawan, the President's residence.
Day 7 Delhi & Agra
- After breakfast travel to the city of Agra
- Evening visit to Sheroe's Hangout
ITC Mughal or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast, drive to Agra, an ancient city that became prominent in Medieval times under the Mughal rulers and was once the capital of a sprawling Mughal kingdom covering much of southeast Asia. Arrive at your hotel and proceed to check in with your fellow travelers.
This evening, visit Sheroes Hangout, a café that employs women who have suffered from debilitating acid attacks. The survivors solely run this café to regain their self-esteem and livelihoods.
Day 8 Agra
- Rise early for a morning tour of the Taj Mahal
- Remainder of the day at leisure, or join optional excursions
- Enjoy an evening High Tea with a local family
ITC Mughal or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryRise early to enjoy a breathtaking morning tour of the Taj Mahal, truly one of the world's wonders. Built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to express his love for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj took 22 years and 20,000 men to build; its white marble was quarried 200 miles away and transported to the site by a fleet of 1000 elephants. Though the Taj is known for its stunning symmetry and balance, the close-up marble inlay work stands out the most. You'll have ample time to explore this outstanding architecture and wander the pristine surrounding gardens. Afterward, return to the hotel for breakfast. *Departure from the hotel may be as early as 5:30 am. Visit time may change depending on weather conditions.
In the evening, join an Indian family in their residence for High Tea. Have the opportunity to interact and learn more about their day-to-day life, eating habits, costumes, and culture.Optional Excursion: Agra Fort, $25Visit the splendid Agra Fort, built by six successive generations of Mughal emperors—Babur, Humayun, Akbar, Jehangir, Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb. Though often eclipsed by the Taj Mahal, this sprawling fortress, more accurately described as a massive walled palatial city, is magnificent in its own right and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was here that Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son, Aurangzeb. From the Muasamman Burj, a tower with a marble balcony, Jahan watched the continuing construction of his Taj Mahal until his death.
Optional Excursion: Mehtab Bagh, $20Day 9 Agra, Abhaneri Village & Jaipur
- Visit Abhaneri Village and see the Chand Baori stepwell
- Experience traditional bread making (chapati or naan)
- Learn the art of tying colorful turbans and sarees
- Continue to Jaipur and check into your hotel
ITC Rajputana or similar Breakfast & lunch
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast, depart for Abhaneri Village, a popular stop along the Agra-Jaipur road for the impressive Chand Baori stepwell and the Harshat Mata Temple. The Chand Baori is perhaps the region’s most visited stepwell and one of the largest and deepest in India. These stepwells were created to harvest rainwater and provide the locals a place to cool off during the hottest summer months, as the temperature is a few degrees cooler at the bottom of the well than at its surface. After some exploration, continue to Jaipur, stopping en route at the Umaid Lake Resort for an included lunch. At the resort, receive a cooking demonstration and experience making chapati or naan bread. Afterward, learn the art of tying colorful turbans and sarees, and receive insights regarding their importance. Continue to Jaipur and check into your hotel.
Day 10 Jaipur
- Morning tour of Jaipur, including a brief stop at the Hawa Mahal and a visit to the Amber Fort, ancient capital of Rajasthan
- Afternoon at leisure or take part in an optional excursion
- Enjoy a farewell dinner with fellow travelers
ITC Rajputana or similar Breakfast & dinner
Full Day ItineraryThis morning's tour starts with a brief photo stop at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). Its beehive-like structure is an interplay of red and pink sandstone, painstakingly outlined with white borders and motifs. Behind this elaborate latticed facade, the cloistered ladies of the court could watch the daily goings-on in the street below.Then, continue to the imposing Amber Fort, the ancient capital of Rajasthan. The fort was begun in the 17th century by Maharaja Mansingh, Emperor Akbar's most successful general. Perched atop the Aravalli hills overlooking the Moat Lake, the fort's fortified battlements and crenelated walls spread over many acres. Ascend to the fortress by jeep or elephant (if available) to view the sprawling complex of courtyards and halls, many of them hung with magnificent paintings and inlaid with precious stones.This afternoon, explore the markets and lanes of Jaipur on your own. Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is India's first and perhaps best-planned city, full of beauty and color. You'll find magnificent palaces, gardens, serene lakes, and wide tree-lined streets here. Except for the heavy traffic of bicycles, cars, and buses, little seems to have changed since 1727, when Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II designed and built the city.Later this evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant with fellow travelers.*Kindly note that you will see elephant rides offered around the Amber Fort. However, Friendly Planet Travel has made the compassionate decision to not include elephant rides in our itineraries, as the process of training these brilliant animals is not up to our ethical standards as it is painful and involves "breaking" so they don't pose a risk of attacking humans. In addition, elephant backbones are delicate and not meant to carry the weight of saddles and people. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.Day 10 Holi Departure: Jaipur & Holi Festival
- This morning, experience the color festival of Holi
- Enjoy typical foods and music while you throw herbal colors and water balloons
- Afternoon at leisure or take part in an optional excursion
- Enjoy a farewell dinner with fellow travelers
ITC Rajputana or similar Breakfast & dinner
Full Day ItineraryThis morning, experience the color festival of Holi, the most vibrant festival of all. Join a fun-filled party at Narain Niwas Hotel, where you will receive your Kurta Pajama. Enjoy typical snacks, foods, and live traditional music while you throw herbal colors and water balloons at each other! After lunch, change into your regular clothing, and spend the afternoon leisurely.
Later this evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant with fellow travelers.
Day 10 Diwali Departure: Jaipur & Diwali Festival
- Morning tour of Jaipur including a brief stop at the Hawa Mahal and a visit to the Amber Fort, ancient capital of Rajasthan
- Afternoon at leisure to explore Jaipur
- This evening enjoy a special dinner celebration for Diwali, the "Festival of Lights"
ITC Rajputana or similar Breakfast & dinner
Full Day ItineraryThis morning's tour starts with a brief photo stop at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). Its beehive-like structure is an interplay of red and pink sandstone, painstakingly outlined with white borders and motifs. Behind this elaborate latticed facade, the cloistered ladies of the court could watch the daily goings-on in the street below.Then, continue to the imposing Amber Fort, the ancient capital of Rajasthan. The fort was begun in the 17th century by Maharaja Mansingh, Emperor Akbar's most successful general. Perched atop the Aravalli hills overlooking the Moat Lake, the fort's fortified battlements and crenelated walls spread over many acres. Ascend to the fortress by jeep to view the sprawling complex of courtyards and halls, many of them hung with magnificent paintings and inlaid with precious stones.This afternoon, explore the markets and lanes of Jaipur on your own. Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is India's first and perhaps best-planned city, full of beauty and color. You'll find magnificent palaces, gardens, serene lakes, and wide tree-lined streets here. Except for the heavy traffic of bicycles, cars, and buses, little seems to have changed since 1727, when Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II designed and built the city.This evening enjoy a special dinner celebration for Diwali, the "Festival of Lights." Join your fellow travelers and a traditional Indian family at Suryaa Villa, where the group is greeted by Thakur Surya Pratap Singh & his family in traditional Rajput attire. They will also provide traditional Turbans & Sarees to each group member. The Diwali festival celebrations begin with special Diwali Puja and a prayer ceremony with the family followed by fireworks, rangoli, flower work decoration, henna (mehndi), and cultural folk dances followed by dinner with a noble Rajput family. It is an authentic experience and a great way to see the traditional Indian Diwali celebration.*Kindly note that you will see elephant rides offered around the Amber Fort. However, Friendly Planet Travel has made the compassionate decision to not include elephant rides in our itineraries, as the process of training these brilliant animals is not up to our ethical standards as it is painful and involves "breaking" so they don't pose a risk of attacking humans. In addition, elephant backbones are delicate and not meant to carry the weight of saddles and people. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.Optional Excursion: Jaipur City Tour including the City Palace & Jantar Mantar Observatory, $30Take an optional excursion to some of the city's famous pink sandstone buildings, including the City Palace Museum, housing the magnificent art collections of the Maharajas of Jaipur. At the entrance to the City Palace is Jantar Mantar, the largest of five observatories founded by classical astronomer Sawai Jai Singh II nearly three centuries ago. Its 14 massive masonry instruments are exact and were used for measuring time, predicting eclipses, tracking stars' location as the earth orbits around the sun, ascertaining the declinations of planets, and more.
Day 11 Jaipur & Delhi
- In the morning, depart for Delhi via motor-coach and transfer to the airport
- Board your overnight flight home via Dubai
Breakfast
Nepal Extension
Take advantage of your already included airfare and add an optional extension to mysterious Nepal. The Nepal Extension includes 1 night in Delhi, flight from Delhi to Kathmandu and onwards from Kathmandu, 3 nights in Kathmandu with a full touring program, transfers, breakfast daily and a farewell dinner and performance. Passengers taking the Nepal Extension will return to the U.S. 4 days later than the return dates shown.
Day 11 Jaipur & Delhi
- In the morning, depart for Delhi via motor-coach and transfer to the airport
- Upon arrival, check in to your airport hotel
Novotel New Delhi Aerocity or similar Breakfast
Day 12 Delhi & Kathmandu, Nepal
- Transfer to the airport to take a short flight to Kathmandu, Nepal
- You will be met upon arrival and transferred to your hotel
- Welcome drink will be served on arrival at your hotel
- Later, visit Boudhanath, one of the world’s largest stupas
Hyatt Regency Kathmandu or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryTransfer to the airport for your flight to Kathmandu. Having cleared immigration, collect your luggage and pass through customs. Upon exiting the terminal, you will be met and transferred to your hotel and served a welcome drink upon arrival. After check-in, take a walk with your guide to Boudhanath, possibly the world's largest Buddhist stupa. Around the stupa, several monasteries have sprung up, including one that houses an enormous seated statue of Maitreya Buddha splendidly adorned.
Day 13 Kathmandu, Patan City & Swoyambhunath
- Optional morning flight over Mt. Everest
- After breakfast, travel to Patan City south of Kathmandu
- In the afternoon, visit the National Museum and Swoyambhunath, the ‘monkey temple’
Hyatt Regency Kathmandu or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryThis morning you will have an opportunity to experience an optional early morning scenic flight over Mt. Everest and the breathtaking Himalayas. After breakfast, visit Patan city, located just south of Kathmandu in the Kathmandu Valley. The city's official name is Lalitpur, meaning the city of fine art. Walk from Kumaripati through the narrow streets, curios shops, and bazaars. On the way, visit the Golden Temple and then go to Patan Durbar Square, where you will see the sky-piercing temple of Taleju.
In the afternoon, drive to Swayambhunath. En route, stop at the National Museum to see a splendid collection of weapons and artifacts from ancient, medieval, and modern Nepal. Continue to Swayambhunath, also known as the "Monkey Temple," which is said to be over 2,000 years old and one of the world's most fabulous Buddhist temples. Situated on top of a high hill where legendary Manjushri discovered the lotus growing in the ancient Kathmandu Valley Lake, Swoyambhunath commands a superb view of the valley below.
Optional Excursion: Mt. Everest Flyover (purchased locally), $225Day 14 Kathmandu & Bhaktapur
- Enjoy a morning visit to Bhaktapur Durbar Square
- This afternoon visit Kathmandu Durbar Square at the heart of the old city
- In the evening, enjoy a Nepalese farewell dinner and performance
Hyatt Regency Kathmandu or similar Breakfast & dinner
Full Day ItineraryIn the morning, drive to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, located in the center of Bhaktapur. The square is one of the most charming architectural showpieces of the valley and is home to some of the finest medieval arts of Nepal. Here you’ll see the Lion Gate, the Golden Gate, Nyatapola Temple, and statues of the kings of Nepal.
In the afternoon, drive back to Kathmandu and visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, located in the heart of the old city. Visit Kumari, Taleju temple, Shiv Parvati temple, and Kal Bhairav. Then, on a walk through a local bazaar, you will discover the true heart of Kathmandu in the sights, sounds, and smells. Join your fellow travelers for a Nepalese farewell dinner and dance performance this evening.
Day 15 Kathmandu & Depart Delhi
- Enjoy the morning at leisure in Kathmandu to shop and explore independently
- Transfer to the airport for your return flight
- Bid farewell to Dubai, India & Nepal as you board your overnight return flight to the USA
Breakfast
Hotels
In the unlikely event that a particular hotel is not available, a similar or better hotel may be substituted.
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Trip Details
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What should I know before I go? We've compiled a comprehensive checklist, including information on how to pay your balance due, flights & transfers, packing & luggage, and more.
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Do I need a visa or other documents? Are there any entry requirements? Travel visas are required for this package. Please review the visa & entry requirements.
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Can I make changes to my trip? Want to upgrade your seats? Depart from another city? Stay a few extra days? Something else? Just ask!
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Can I bring my kids? Are there any age restrictions? To book this package, you must be 18 or older. Your traveling companions must be 12 or older at time of travel.
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Should I purchase travel insurance? Yes! We recommend you purchase travel insurance to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For your convenience, we offer a plan provided by Travelex Insurance Services.
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What's the fine print? Review the terms & conditions for this package.
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What should I know about India? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.
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