Wow, what a tour. Completely met and exceeded our expectations. There is a lot of travelling by road, and some by train. But the experiences you see from the vehicle, the fantastic sights, sounds and smells are unforgettable.
Rajesh the Delhi driver was absolutely brilliant and was a very careful and courteous driver. Always on time and looking out for us. The Tour Guide was also very knowledgeable and was a really nice guy, excellent service all round.
The day trip to Taj Mahal was a long one with a 3.5 hour drive each way. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. There are additional fee's to enter the Taj Mahal.
Our next driver, Honey, was a really nice young guy, and drove us for many 100's of miles. He sometimes was late and also drove as if he was rehearsing for Formula One, but once we asked him to arrive on time and to drive slower, he was very respectful. Also, he liked to have his favourite music playing, which was ok at a lower volume - again he respected our requests. The Delhi Hotel was lovely, with a rooftop pool, and excellent food in the restaurant, with plenty of choices at breakfast and dinner, also a daytime snack menu was available, Towels, hairdryer, toilet paper, kettle with tea/coffee, TV and safe all provided in the room. The next hotel was 5k outside of Shimla. It was located at the main Bus station. It was comfortable and adequate for overnight stays. The restaurant served a good choice of food for breakfast and dinner. All room facilities available. The Hotel near Manali was 8k from Manali town/Mall. It was isolated upon a hillside. The restaurant was excellent with a good selection of food available for breakfast and dinner with fantastic views along the valley.
We arrived very late in Chandigarh so did not have an opportunity to see the City The hotel was very nice and the room fully equipped and comfortable. The restaurant was very good too.
The trips each day were interesting and flexible - for example we were not interested in riding horses or bull, or visiting the Zoo, but we were able to walk in the woods and enjoy the clean air of the valley and enjoy the views, or visit a nearby village as an alternative. The highlight of the tour for me was reaching the top of the Rohtung Pass. Worth every minute of the 2+ hours drive each way to reach it. Also, the valleys are filled with Apple trees - the apples so juicy and tasty, so fresh.
The train trip was really interesting and lovely to speak to local people sat by us and to see the landscape as we travelled.
We were met by a driver at every arrival point, and a guide on time every time.
The company kept in touch with us throughout the tour to ensure we were happy or to notify us of driver or guide names and details. They were very helpful in helping change our overnight plans on our return to the airport.
We would definitely book with Alkof holidays again if we visit India and highly recommend them.