Indus Domes, Deserts & Islamabad

Indus Domes, Deserts & Islamabad

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17 Days From

$3515

Indus Domes, Deserts & Islamabad

17 Days Starting in Karachi, Pakistan and ending in Islamabad, Pakistan

Visiting: Karachi, Hyderabad, Ranikot Fort, Mohenjo Daro, Larkana, Sukkur, Bahawalpur, Multan, Lahore, Islamabad

Tour operator:

Encounters Travel

Tour code:

645

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 10

Physical rating:

All Ages / Not applicable

Age range:

12-85

Special diets catered:

Request dietary needs

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Safari Tours

Activities:

Boat/Cruise Excursion

From: $3515

NB: Prices correct on 22-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Pakistan with the "Indus Domes, Deserts & Islamabad" tour. This adventure takes you from the bustling city of Karachi to the serene landscapes of Islamabad, offering a rich tapestry of cultural and historical experiences. Discover Pakistan's heritage at the National Museum, relax in the Manghopir hot sulphur springs, and enjoy a unique boat trip on Manchar Lake with the Mohanas tribe. Explore the majestic Derawar Fort in the Cholistan desert and the ancient Rohtas Fort. Experience the vibrant city life of Lahore, with its culinary delights on Fort Road, and witness the iconic flag-lowering ceremony at the Wagah border. With comfortable accommodations in 3 to 4-star hotels and guesthouses, and guided tours in an A/C car or landcruiser, this small group adventure promises an immersive and enriching exploration of Pakistan's diverse landscapes and cultures.

Highlights

  • Learn about Pakistan's cultural heritage at the National Museum in Karachi

  • Soak in the Manghopir hot sulphur springs

  • Boat trip on Manchar Lake with the Mohanas tribe

  • Visit Derawar Fort in the Cholistan desert

  • Explore the shrines and bazaar in the old walled city of Multan

  • Experience the flag lowering ceremony at Wagah, the border with India

  • Sightseeing in Lahore, the cultural hub of Pakistan

  • Explore the 16th century Rohtas Fort

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrive In Karachi. Afternoon City Tour

Location: Karachi

Accommodation Name: Karachi hotel

Welcome in Pakistan at Karachi airport. Transfer to our hotel and take a rest before starting with our city tour.

Our tour begins on a high with a full day's sightseeing in and around Karachi. The National Museum gives us a complete vista of Pakistan’s cultural heritage from Stone Age to the birth of the nation. After visiting the oldest Sufi shrine in Karachi, Mohamad Ali Jinnah Mausoleum, we can unwind at Clifton Beach or maybe take a soak in the Manghopir hot sulphur springs, that many believe to have curative powers (and just a few crocodiles!)

We are sure to enjoy some of the variety of restaurants in around the city.

Day 2 : To Hyderabad Via Chaukundi, Thatta, Makli Hills & Kinjhar Lake

Location: Hyderabad

Accommodation Name: Hyderabad hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Our destination today is Hyderabad, however we'll have a number of stops en-route to visit Chaukundi, Makli Hills and Thatta.

The Chaukundi Tombs are known for their elaborate and exquisite stone carvings and the style of architecture found here, is unique in that it can be found nowhere else in the Islamic world. Whilst in Thatta we'll visit the Shah Jahan Mosque, famous for its beautiful architecture, which was constructed during in the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan; better known as the visionary who created the Taj Mahal in Agra, India. Our final visit before heading to Hyderabad will be to the nearby Makli Hills. Makli Necropolis covers an area of around 10 kilometers and is thought to house up to 1 million tombs, built over a period of 400 years, it is perhaps the worlds largest necropolis

Before arriving in Hyderabad, we'll make a captivating stop at Kinjhar Lake, a wildlife haven and internationally recognized Ramsar site. This vast freshwater lake, the largest in Pakistan, teems with life. Lush reedbeds and vibrant underwater plants create a rich ecosystem that attracts a stunning array of birds.
Imagine flocks of ducks, geese, flamingos, and cormorants gracing the waters – a haven for both resident birds and those seeking a winter refuge. Kinjhar Lake is especially important for breeding birds like the Cotton Teal and the striking Pheasant-tailed Jacana.
Beyond its ecological significance, the lake supports a thriving fishing community of around 50,000 people, and even provides essential drinking water for Karachi. Since 1977, Keenjhar Lake has been protected as a Wildlife Sanctuary, ensuring this remarkable place remains a vibrant home for both nature and people.

Day 3 : Learn About Local Industries In Hyderabad, Hala & Bhit Shah And Join A Pottery Workshop

Location: Hyderabad

Accommodation Name: Hyderabad hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is all about the industries which the region around Hyderbad is famous for. In Hala and Bhit Shah, known as the hub of Sindhi handicrafts, we visit traditional craft workshops which are largely family-owned. Any purchases you choose to make here contribute to the local ecomony, with funds going directly into the hands of local artisans. Amongst many handicrafts that Hala is known for, glazed ceramic, earthenware and terracotta are the most popular. These pots and tiles are available in various shapes and sizes and are famous for their exquisite hand painted designs. The artists use only signature colours which include: cobalt blue, turquoise, mustard, purple, brown and white; this form of art is known as ‘Kashi Kari’. After seeing these talented artists at work, you'll have the opportunity to release your inner potter, as we join a pottery workshop, learn time-honored skills, and let your creativity flow as you mold the clay into your own unique masterpiece. Nearby Bhit Shah is best known for being the home to a shrine dedicated to the Sindhi Sufi Poet, Shah Abdul Latif-Bhittai, who also gave his name to the town. We'll take time to visit the shrine before moving on to learn about Ajrak; a traditional block printed cloth which was a hallmark of the Indus Civilisation.

Day 4 : 'The Great Wall Of Sindh' - Ranikot Fort. Drive To Sehwan.

Location: Ranikot Fort

Accommodation Name: Sehwan hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A real treat is in store this morning as we visit Ranikot Fort, also known as the Great Wall of Sindh, due to its huge 32km circumference, making it the worlds largest fort. The ramparts of the fort have often been compared to those found along the Great Wall of China and we'll have time to explore and get some great photos of the walls straddling the nearby hillsides. Our day ends in Sehwan, a city famous for the shrine of the 13th century Sufi Saint, Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar.

Day 5 : Visit The Mohanas Tribe And Incredible Mohenjo Daro

Location: Mohenjo Daro

Accommodation Name: Larkana hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we'll drive to Manchar Lake which is home to the Mohana Tribe who are thought to be descendants of the first inhabitants of the Indus Valley. The Mohana are a fascinating people who live in houseboats at the heart of Lake Manchar. Their unique way of life centers around fishing, a skill they've honed for generations. They partner with trained cormorants and night herons, who help them catch an abundance of fish – enough to sustain both the birds and the Mohana families. Sadly, this traditional lifestyle is endangered. The Mohana lost their exclusive fishing rights, facing competition from larger contractors. Water shortages and dams further disrupt their livelihood. To support the Mohana, we spend time with them, learning about their culture. We hire their boats to explore the lake (when water levels allow). This provides a crucial income source for the fishing community, which in turn helps to preserve their ancestral way of life. After boating on the lake with the Mohanas, we'll visit their original settlement of Mohenjo Daro, be prepared to be impressed! Mohenjo Daro flourised as the centre of the Indus Civilisation for around 800 years, during the 3rd and 2nd millennia BC. The city was one of the largest in the old world and was the first city in South Asia to demonstrate urbanisation. The site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1980, the first site in South Asia to be so designated.

Day 6 : Exploring Larkana And Kot Diji Fort

Location: Larkana

Accommodation Name: Sukkur hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Larkana is home to the famous Bhutto family, who have held the leadership of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) since it's inception in 1967. Two members of the family have gone on to be Prime Ministers of Pakistan, including Benazir Bhutto, who's widower Asif Ali Zardari also went on to be President of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013. Whilst exploring Larkana we'll make a stop at the Bhutto Family Mausoleum, an impressive building which attracts large crowds on a yearly basis, to commemorate the death of Benazir Bhutto. As we leave Larkana behind, we'll make our way to Sukkur, with a stop en-route to visit Kot Diji Fort, an important Harappa site (3000–2600 BC), which is situated at the foot of the Rohri Hills where the fort stands majestically above us.

Day 7 : Sadhu Belo Temple, Visit The Indus Dolphin Conservation Centre

Location: Sukkur

Accommodation Name: Sukkur hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we'll visit the island of Sadhu Belo which is famous for the highly revered Hindu Temples located here, including Teerath Asthan which is the largest Hindu Temple in Pakistan. After our visit to the island, we'll enjoy a boat ride on the Sukkur River, keep your eyes peeled for sightings of dolphins. A local legend says that the Indus River Dolphin was once a woman who was cursed to be transformed into a dolphin, by a local holy man, who was angry that she forgot to prepare his food one day. The species was once thought to be extinct, however numbers are now on the rise, though they're not yet off of the endangered species list. By taking our travellers to visit this area, our funds are helping to support the efforts being made by the Indus Dolphin Conservation Centre to: Inject funds and awareness to support vital conservation work for habitat protection, research, and anti-poaching efforts. Empower local communities by creating economic opportunities that foster a commitment to dolphin and habitat protection. Influence policy by highlighting the importance of Indus River dolphins, encouraging stricter regulations to safeguard their environment. Our final visit of the day takes us to the Masoon Shah Jo Minaro Tower, which was once the highest point in Sukkur, after ascending the 84 steps, you'll be rewarded with views of Sukkur where we'll be spending the night.

Day 8 : Drive To Bahawalpur Via Bhong Mosque

Location: Bahawalpur

Accommodation Name: Bahawalpur hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Our route today takes us to the city of Bahawalpur. The city of Bahawalpur was founded in 1748 and was the capital of the former princely state of Bahawalpur, which was ruled by the Abassi family. The state remained independant until the formation of Pakistan in 1947. En-route to Bahawalpur we'll visit the Bhong Mosque. With its unique design, taking stylistic elements from nearby Lahore as well as Iran, Spain and Turkey, the mosque won the Aga Khan award for architecture in 1986 after a construction period of around 50 years.

Day 9 : Cholistan Desert, Derawar Fort And Tombs Of The Nawabs Of Bahawalpur

Location: Bahawalpur

Accommodation Name: Bahawalpur hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we drive into the Cholistan desert, where standing proudly we'll see the Derawar Fort, a famed hallmark of Bahawalpur. The Derawar Fort has around 40 bastions that stand 30 feet high and the walls have a circumference of approximately 1.5km. The Nawab of Bahawalpur, Sadeq Mohammad Khan I, captured the fort in 1733 and had it rebuilt into the design that you see today. In front of the fort stands the Derawar mosque, which was constructed in 1844 AD. The mosque has three domes and two minarets built in the style of Moti Masjid at the Red Fort in Delhi. We also visit the tombs of Nawabs of Bahawalpur, the royal graveyard of the Abbasi family. The Abbasi family was the ruling Nawab family of Bahawalpur and all of the previous Nawabs are buried here. The graveyard is still owned and controlled by the surviving family members of the Nawabs. There is also an option to do camel safari in the Cholistan desert around Derawar Fort. Drive back to Bahawalpur, visiting Bibi Jaiwandi Tomb in Ucch along the way.

Day 10 : Exploring The Former Princely State Of Bahawalpur. Drive To Multan

Location: Bahawalpur

Accommodation Name: Multan hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Founded in 1748 by Nawab Bahawal Khan, the former state of Bahawalpur remained independant until the formation of Pakistan in 1947. The Nawabs left behind a wealth of culture and beautiful architecture and today we'll visit Nur Mahal, Bahawalpur Mosque, the Museum and the Bazaar. Later, we'll leave the city behind and make our way to Multan.

Day 11 : Multan, The City Of Saints, Mystics And Shrines

Location: Multan

Accommodation Name: Multan hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We have a full day of sightseeing ahead of us today, exploring the city of Multan. We'll start by exploring a number of shrines, dedicated to the great mystics Bahauddin Zakaria, Shah Rukn e Alam and Shams Tabrez which are decorated with beautiful glazed blue tiles. Later, we'll explore the old city of Multan, which has a bustling bazaar where you may see artisans making painted camel skin vases and lamp shades. We'll also visit the Eidgah Mosque which dates from the 16th to 17th century. Our evening will be spent in Multan.

Day 12 : Visit Harappa En-Route To Lahore

Location: Lahore

Accommodation Name: Lahore hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The archaeological site of Harappa provides us with an interesting stop off, on our way to Lahore. The town flourished as a centre of the Indus Valley Civilization and dates back to 3000 BC. Later in the day, we'll arrive in Lahore where we'll have a free evening to settle in.

Day 13 : Begin Exploring The City Of Lahore

Location: Lahore

Accommodation Name: Lahore hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We'll begin exploring Lahore today, making our first stop at Lahore Fort, a marvel of Moghul architecture which was constructed between the 11th and 16th centuries. Overlooking the Fort is the Badshahi Mosque (the Royal Mosque). the world’s largest, and our next stop. The mosque was constructed during the reign of Emperor Aurengzeb. Pakistan's most famous poet-philosopher, Dr Mohamad Iqbal, lies buried outside the mosque.

From here we move to Jahangir's Tomb. The Tomb was built by his son Shah Jahan (who is best known for constructed the Taj Mahal) in 1627. After making a stop at the Lahore Museum, we will enjoy the city’s love of food by visiting the ‘food street’ in the old town, where we can find many different dishes and flavours.

Day 14 : Old Walled City Of Lahore And The Wagah Border Ceremony

Location: Lahore

Accommodation Name: Lahore hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The Old Walled City is our next stop with its narrow and dimly lit alleys leading from Sarafa Bazaar to Kashmiri Bazaar. Brass inlay work, as well as local handicrafts can be found in abundance here. We visit Shahi Hamam (Royal Bath) and the Wazir Khan Mosque before heading to the Wagah border with India to watch the flag lowering ceremony. Each day there is an elaborate military drill which symbolizes the 2 countries’ rivalry over the last 60 years.

Day 15 : To Islamabad Via The Rohtas Fort & Khewra Salt Mine

Location: Islamabad

Accommodation Name: Islamabad hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Drive to Islamabad, en-route visit the Rohtas Fort and Khewra Salt Mine. Rohtas Fort was built in 1540 by Sher Shah Suri. It is one of the most imposing historical monuments in Pakistan especially attractive for anyone with a taste for castles in the most romantic tradition. Sher Shah Suri built this fort to keep the Ghakkar tribe in check and kept around12000 men here. The fort also guarded his famous Grand Truck Road on which you will travel. Next we'll stop at the Khewra Salt Mine where we'll take a guided train ride into the mine complex. Explore various chambers highlighting different salt colors and formations. We'll also visit the underground mosque. After arriving in Islamabad you'll have a free evening.

Day 16 : Tours Of Islamabad, Taxila And Rawalpindi

Location: Islamabad

Accommodation Name: Islamabad hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Islamabad is a city of many contrasts with green avenues, splendid views of the surrounding hills and busy city life. We have a full day's guided tour around the major sights, including the old city of Rawalpindi, Daman e Koh view point and the huge structure of Shah Faisal Mosque.

A short drive away is the museum of Taxila and the remains of Jaulian Monastery. We have time to browse in the museum at the artefacts, many dating back over 2000 years.

Day 17 : Transfer To Islamabad Airport For Departure

Location: Islamabad

Meals Included: Breakfast

You'll have some free time in Islamabad today until you are transferred to the airport for departure.

What's Included

  • Accommodation - twin share - simple hostels/hotels

    Accommodation is provided on a twin share basis in simple hostels and hotels.

  • Karachi city and surroundings tour (1 full day)

    Enjoy a full day tour of Karachi city and its surroundings.

  • Manghopir Sufi Shrine and hot sulphur springs

    Visit the Manghopir Sufi Shrine and experience the hot sulphur springs.

  • Ajrak factory visit (traditional block printed cloth)

    Visit a factory to see the traditional block printed cloth known as Ajrak.

  • Boating with the Mohanas tribe on Manchar Lake

    Experience boating with the Mohanas tribe on Manchar Lake.

  • Boat safari to Sukkur island

    Take a boat safari to Sukkur Island.

  • Sadu Bela - Hindu Temple

    Visit the Sadu Bela Hindu Temple.

  • Derawar Fort

    Explore the historic Derawar Fort.

  • Multan city tour

    Enjoy a city tour of Multan.

  • Harappa archaeological site

    Visit the archaeological site of Harappa.

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What's Not Included

  • Visas

    Visas are not included in the tour package.

  • Optional Excursions as listed in the Pre-Departure Information

    Optional excursions listed in the Pre-Departure Information are not included.

  • Flights

    Flights to and from the destination are not included.

  • Airport Taxes & Transfers

    Airport taxes and transfers are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.

  • Drinks

    Drinks are not included in the tour package.

  • Tips

    Tips for guides and drivers are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel in comfort with air-conditioned cars or land cruisers, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey across the diverse landscapes of Pakistan.

Accommodation

Stay in comfortable 3 to 4 star hotels and guesthouses throughout the tour, providing a relaxing retreat after each day's adventures.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    The tour includes accommodation in 3 to 4 star hotels and guesthouses, with twin share options in simple hostels and hotels.

  • What type of transport is used during the tour?

    The tour uses air-conditioned cars or landcruisers for transportation.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour includes three meals per day, along with tea and coffee in the morning and afternoon.

  • Will there be a guide during the tour?

    Yes, an English-speaking guide will accompany the tour.

  • Is there any support for obtaining a visa for the tour?

    The tour provides a letter of invitation and general visa advice to assist with obtaining a visa.

  • What cultural experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes visits to cultural sites such as the National Museum in Karachi, the Manghopir Sufi Shrine, and the Ajrak factory. It also includes a city tour of Multan, a visit to the Harappa archaeological site, and a tour of Lahore, the cultural hub of Pakistan.

  • What unique activities are part of the tour itinerary?

    Unique activities include a boat trip on Manchar Lake with the Mohanas tribe, a safari by boat to Sukkur Island, and a visit to the Sadu Bela Hindu temple. There is also an opportunity to join a pottery workshop in Hyderabad.

  • What historical sites will be visited during the tour?

    The tour includes visits to several historical sites such as Derawar Fort, Rohtas Fort, the Bhong Mosque, and the Khewra Salt Mine. Additionally, the tour visits the archaeological site of Mohenjo Daro and the Taxila museum.

  • Is travel insurance compulsory?

    Yes! Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You are always able to change your travel date. However, some charges may apply depending on how long before your departure you make the change. Our flexible booking conditions and reduced charges will apply if you are changing date because of a Covid-19 reason or because your government is advising against travel to your destination. Please check our detailed booking conditions for full details.

  • When is my balance payment due?

    60 days prior to departure

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    On most of our group tours, solo travellers may choose to form a temporary 'tour bubble' and share a room with another traveller of the same sex in the group. If a room share is not available then a single room supplement may be payable, with the costs for these kept as low as possible. We have also removed compulsory single supplements from many of our tours, and are reducing the cost by 50% on s

  • Can I transfer my booking to someone else?

    Customers may transfer their booking or any Credit on File to another person who satisfies all the relevant conditions to the tour, provided that we are notified not less than 7 days before departure, and the transferee agrees to these booking conditions and all other terms of the contract between us. The Client and new booker are jointly and severally responsible for any outstanding payments and a transfer administration fee of GBP50 / USD75 / CAD100 / AUD100 / NZD100 / EUR75 / ZAR1000 / INR5000 or GBP100 / USD150 / CAD200 / AUD200 / NZD200 / EUR150 / ZAR2000 / INR10,000 if the transfer is made less than 60 days before departure. Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended or transferred after they have been confirmed (for example flight tickets, Gorilla Permits) and any alteration could incur a cancellation and rebooking charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

Reviews of this operator

Jasmine Montaque (Google Reviewer)  

We had a Great 9...

30-Aug-2023

We had a Great 9 day trip to Egypt ! Everyone we “encountered” were excellent! We absolutely loved our guide. We are Looking 👀 to book another trip with Encounters Travel!

sandra mooney (Google Reviewer)  

From the time we landed...

24-Aug-2024

From the time we landed in Cairo we were treated as VIP’s. Nadine our Tour leader kept on checking on us throughout the journey. We were fortunate to have Fayed and Hossam as the tour guides, they took their time to explain the sites throughout each excursion. Everyone made us feel safe and well looked after.

Miriam Huguet (Google Reviewer)  

I did the Discover Egypt...

06-Jan-2022

I did the Discover Egypt and I definetely recommend it. They take care of every detail (they manage to do our PCR with the stamp that we needed). They book quite comfortable hotels and the guide and the local guides are extremely good and passionate about their work. I would repeat it!! :)

Aries FFPro (Google Reviewer)  

Wish I could rate Encounters...

04-Dec-2021

Wish I could rate Encounters higher! From the onset, Anthony (Ant) was professional and extremely knowledgeable, and far more helpful than I had hoped. He always had time to respond to my inquiries and never showed any sign of frustration...no matter how many times I asked the same question. Meeting Saul at the Cairo airport shows just how valuable the RIGHT travel rep is: he had us go from the gate to getting our visas to picking up our luggage and out to the waiting van in 15 minutes! UNBELIEVABLE! Saul also checked in with us almost daily to make sure everything was to our satisfaction. Our guides Big Mu and Mahmoud were fantastic in their knowledge of the sites, the history of the area and where to get the best bargains. Encounters Travel made this trip of a lifetime 100x better than anything I had hoped for. I cannot recommend Encounters strongly enough...if you have Egypt on your bucket list, like we did, book safely and securely with Encounters!

Renee Hage (Google Reviewer)  

I so appreciated the care...

18-May-2024

I so appreciated the care taken by all the staff ensuring that we were well taken care of and had no problems. They were very responsive to all of our questions. The tour itself was incredible!

Erin Scott (Google Reviewer)  

Just finished a dreamy 9...

05-Dec-2019

Just finished a dreamy 9 day Discover Egypt Tour with our guide, Mohamed El-Maghrabi. I can’t say enough about this tour and Mohamed. Everything exceeded my expectations. Somehow each new day was better than the last. The tour was perfectly laid out and organized, and everything went super smoothly. Mohamed was attentive and thoughtful to each of our individual needs. From early check-ins, delicious pre-arranged restaurant excursions, and assisting with trip add-ons, Mohamed was a superstar. Not to mention his knowledge and passion for egyptology. The additional encounters support staff at each location was an added bonus that enhanced an already smooth operation. The trip went way too fast! I didn’t want it to end. I recommend this trip to anyone who wants to see as much of egypt as possible in a short amount of time! I’ll never forget this whirlwind adventure!

Claire Carter (Google Reviewer)  

I was unsure what to...

25-Oct-2023

I was unsure what to expect but it was far better than I thought. Collected from the airport and thoroughly looked after until I was returned to the airport 10 days later. The times, travelling and food was as advertised. The guide and sights were beyond my expectations. Fantastic tour.

Mary Radoccia (Google Reviewer)  

Northern India solo trip. ...

09-May-2024

Northern India solo trip. Some of the hotels were past their prime as 4 star establishments. Paid a substantial amount for side trip to varanasi which was supposed to be 3 days, 2 nights. It turned out to be really 1 day, 2 nights. Plane left after 8pm and we didn't arrive at hotel until after 11pm. Had to leave at 5.30am the following day and we didn't get back to hotel until after 10pm. The following day we had to leave hotel at 8am for flight back to dehli. We could have left for varanasi in the afternoon as originally implied and left on a later flight back to dehli. Everyone not staying extra days then had to spend 6 to 10 hours waiting for their flight home.The one day in varanasi was great but I wouldn't have gone if I knew the time frame. Not worth money either. Also bus used on trip was old, bad suspension and rattled Window style was old so not very good for taking photos. My view was shared by most of the other travellers. I think the standard of travel via Encounter has dropped over the past years based on comments from some of the others.

Melissa Goodwin (Google Reviewer)  

BUYER BEWARE Before you book anything...

17-Jun-2024

BUYER BEWARE Before you book anything with Encounters Travel, be SURE to read all of the fine print. This is especially important regarding their cancellation policy and the deposit you will forfeit. I didn't find that we'd completely lost our deposit until I contact the company to process a cancellation. I thought I could cancel for a full refund up until a certain point, but apparently I was mistaken. I booked a 3-night late-September boat trip at the end of May, and mid-June we realized we couldn't take it. It's been less than 3 weeks since I booked the trip and it's over 3 MONTHS until the trip will take place, so you know they will have no issue filling our two spots. Even so, we are out $250 each for our trip. They are within their rights to not refund the deposit - I should have waded through the fine print to find this buried detail. But they also have the choice to refund the deposit given the circumstances. Don't make the same mistake I did. READ EVERYTHING BEFORE YOU BOOK. Better yet, consider not booking with Encounters Travel.

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Dec 15, 2024 - Dec 31, 2024
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Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Encounters Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform encounters travel, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Encounters Travel requires a minimum deposit of 150 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of encounters travel charges.

    Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 35% of booking price.

    At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.