Payment

Yes, ATM’s that accept overseas debit/ credit cards are available in most places across India. it is highly recommended that when travelling outside of larger cities such as Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, that you carry extra cash and pay close attention when exchanging money. Aus­tralian, US Dollars Euros are easily exchanged across India. In Nepal there are cash machines in Kathmandu but few available outside. We suggest you carry cash. This is also true for Bhutan.

Please contact us to get the latest information on your desired trip.

We understand that you may not have a printer handy when you’re traveling so it is not necessary to have a printed copy. However, we require that you show ID matching your reservation and also the Order # that is immediately emailed to you after you make your reservation.

Preparation

Tipping is a firm and expected element in the tourism in­dustry in the countries we visit. If you are travelling as an independent person then it is customary to tip drivers, porters at hotels, restaurant staff and local guides. Please ask about the specifics of tipping when booking your trip.

If travelling in a group, tipping is not included in your tour pricing. We advise approximately A$50 (subject to slight variation depending on length of your trip) to be paid directly to your local guide who will then distrib­ute the tips among your main service providers – guides, drivers and attendants – on your behalf.

All travellers are limited to two items of luggage each; a suitcase with a maximum weight of 15kg and one piece of hand luggage with a maximum weight of 5kg. Any excess luggage charges incurred will be at the expense of the passenger.

Travel insurance is compulsory. We recommend that you take a copy of your travel insurance documents (especially relevant international contact numbers) with you while on tour.

We advise that you check the inclusions and procedures for lodging claims prior to your departure. Copies of these docu­ments should be stored separately from the originals.

We recommend that you consult your GP or nearest Travel Doctor about vaccinations. If you have a medical condition and are taking regular medication please let us know at the time of booking so we can support you appropriately.

India – A 30 day visa on arrival is available for India. Applicants must apply online at least four days before intended travel. Many of our clients will be able to apply using this link. Please confirm requirements for this process well in advance of your travel date.

Nepal – Visas on arrival are available at Kathmandu airport.

Bhutan – Visas must be obtained through your travel agent or tour operator.

We handpick our hotels and guest houses with a special eye for boutique accommodations that combine western amenities with local flavor. In addition, accessibility is key. We prioritize accommodations that are close to the main centre (whenever possible) to allow for independent exploring and walkability during any free time. In cities, our hotel rooms are on a twin share basis (if travelling with a group).

Your safety and wellbeing is our first priority. If travelling in a group, your local guide will travel with you twenty-four seven. If travelling alone, we check in frequently and attentively, providing contact numbers in case you have questions or concerns. In the rare chance of an emergency, Ekno Experience is prepared to quickly come to your location to assist and support you.

India is a complex and layered country that can seem challenging to navigate and enjoy at the same time. As women who have travelled India extensively, we know it’s possible to have safe and pleasant trips, even as a solo female traveler. We also know there are dynamics you have to be aware of and some precautions that are important to take, and we can help with that.

Whether travelling in a group or as a solo traveler, we positon ourselves to be there for you 24/7. Whether its question on the best restaurant in town or a more serious concern, whenever you are on an Ekno Experience, you are never alone.

No one has time for a stomach ache while on a holiday, there’s too much good food to eat! With this in mind, and with western tummies ourselves, we do our absolute best to recommend restaurants and eating establishments that are delicious, and hygienic. On all our trips, your health is our priority. Except for certain exceptions, we recommend following a vegetarian diet whilst visiting this part of the world. If you have special dietary requirements, such as lactose intolerance or kosher, please let us know and we will advise accordingly. In general, we do not recommend eating street food in any location we visit.

Of course! Hindi is the official national language of India, however, there are 22 official languages. English is widely spoken and you will be escorted by a local guide who speaks both Hindi and English. We follow similar language guidelines while in Nepal and Bhutan.

We also believe that communication extends far beyond spoken word and encourage you to embrace the power of non-verbal communication, as well as learn a few phrases from your tour guide, along the way.

Reservation

Of course! If you have a group ready to travel, we are happy to put together an itinerary that suits your travel interests and requirements. Fancy a trek in the Himalayas? Or perhaps a food tour of Rajasthan? Our rich, first-hand knowledge of South Asia allows us to create enriching and substantive itineraries on a wide variety of topics. We have experience organising tailor-made holidays for groups of friends, families, schools, clubs, charities and special interest groups.