Madhya Pradesh

Maharashtra Trail | A Spiritual Journey


Flights

Included


Starting From

USD 1000 Per Person


Availability

Round Year


11

Days


Hotel Category

3-4-5 stars

Travel Duration

11 Days / 10 Nights

Included in the trip
Entrance Tickets
Individual departures

Round Year

Maharashtra is a state in western India known for its rich cultural heritage and history. The state has many spiritual places that attract devotees from across the country. Maharshra is brimming with an array of colorful shrines, There are many spiritual and culturally rich places in Maharashtra Like , Ajanta caves. Ellora Rock cut temple, Triambakeshwar Temple, Osho ashram ,Siddhivinyak Mandir, Elephanta caves ans many other. We have designed this tour to give you an experience of best of Most Spiritual and religios Places of This State, the Tour will Start in Mumbai - The Financial Capital of India and will take you to pune, Aurangabad, Nashik and will end in Mumbai covering all the important attractction of these places. come enrich your senses on this Wonderful Journey with us,

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Stages Of Tour

Land
Plane
Train

The Travel Program

11 DAYS

+ See The Complete Program

Day 1

Arrive In Mumbai & Sightseeing

On arrival in Mumbai, meet with our MTA representative and transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon, excursion to the Elephanta Island, famous for the caves dedicated to the sacred sculptures of the Hindu gods. Back to Mumbai and take a panoramic tour of colonial Mumbai passing through the Victoria Terminus station, Fort area and later visit of Gandhi's House (ManiBhawan) Mani Bhavan was the focal point of Gandhi's political activities in Mumbai between 1917 and 1934. The day ends with a visit to Hanging Gardens. Overnight in Mumbai.

 

Inclusions: Accommodation, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fees.

Highlights: Elephanta caves, Mani Bhawan. Hanging Gardens

 

Please Note : Elephanta Caves are closed on Monday

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Day 2

Mumbai Sightseeing

After breakfast in the morning, Explore Kanheri caves to see Buddhist sculptures and relief carvings, paintings and inscriptions, dating back from the 1st century B.C. to the 10th century CE. Kanheri comes from the Sanskrit Krishnagiri, which means black mountain. The site is on a hillside and is accessed via rock-cut steps. After that go for visiting Global Vipassana Centre. The Global Vipassana Pagoda is a Meditation Hall near Gorai, North-west of Mumbai, India. The Pagoda was inaugurated by Pratibha Patil, then President of India on 8 February 2009. It is built on donated land on a peninsula between Gorai creek and the Arabian Sea. The pagoda is to serve as a monument of peace and harmony. The center of the Global Vipassana Pagoda contains the world's largest stone dome built without any supporting pillars. Return to the hotel for overnight.

 

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fees.

Highlights: Kanheri caves, The Global Vipassana Pagoda

 

Please Note : Kanheri Caves are closed on Monday

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Day 3

Mumbai – Lonavala - Pune (170 Km, 3 Hrs approx.)

Breakfast and proceed to Pune. Stop at Lonavala, Visit the Bhaja Caves. It is over 2000 years old and date back to 160 BC. The Bhaja Caves are 22 rock cut caves which looks impressive and magnificent. It is said that the Buddhist monks used to live here and provided shelter to the travellers who were on a trade excursion. The rock excavation of the cave are intricate and very fine that looks marvellous. Various figures like a woman dancing and playing tabla are also excavated inside the caves and it looks just perfect and tell a lot about the history and lifestyle of the people of the 1st century. After visiting go for Karla Caves. Karla Caves are ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves and a famous tourist attraction located near Lonavala. Also known as Karli Caves, Karle Caves or Karla Cells, it is one of the oldest Buddhist cave shrines in India. These caves houses one of the largest Chaityas (prayer hall with a stupa) in India. Karla Caves is mainly known for the Ekvira Temple located inside. Continue to Pune. Arrive and overnight stay.

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fees.

Highlights: Bhaja caves, Karla caves

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Day 4

Pune

Breakfast in the hotel. Visit the Shaniwarwada. It was the stately mansion originally built as the residence of the Peshwas. The foundation of the mansion was laid by Bajirao 1 in the year 1730 AD and construction was completed in 1732 AD. Several additions were made to the palace like fortification walls with bastions, gates and court halls by his successors. After it go to visit for The Aga Khan Palace is also known as the Gandhi National Museum and is a part of the Indian freedom struggle. It served as a prison for national leaders like Mahatma Gandhi during the Quit India Movement in 1942. The Aga Khan Palace was donated to India by Aga Khan IV during 1969. The museum also serves as a memorial wherein the remains (samadhi) of Mahatma Gandhi’s wife, Kasturba Gandhi rest in peace. The palace was built in 1892 by Sultan Mohammed Shah, Aga Khan III. When taking a trip to Pune, the Aga Khan Palace is a must visit as it is known for its historical as well as architectural significance. And then go for Pataleshwar Cave Temple. It is devoted to the Lord Pataleshwar, the God of the Underworld. Built in the 8th century, this temple is visited not by religious tourists but by everyone who admires architectural beauty. It is said that the Pataleshwar Cave Temple has been carved out from a single rock. It is also dedicated to the Lord Shiva and Nandi. There are also statues of various Hindu Gods and Goddesses such as Goddess Sita, Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ram, Lord Lakshman, and Lord Ganesh. A majestic shivalingam is also built under its roof, at the main shrine of the temple. This temple has huge pillars, adding on to its magnificence. Overnight in Pune.

 

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fees.

Highlights: Shaniwarwada, Pataleshwar Cave Temple, The Aga Khan Palace

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Day 5

Pune – Shani Signapur – Aurangabad (240 Km – 5 Hrs Approx)

After Breakfast in the,optional visit to the Osho Ashram (on direct payment basis). Osho Ashram was founded by the Rajneesh Chandra Mohan Jain, who is popularly famous as Osho Rajneesh. Also known as, Osho Commune International of Pune, this ashram is spread across an area of 32 acres. Later transfer to Aurangabad, You may visit Shani Signapur on the way, a famous temple dedicated to shani. It is acclaimed as the 'Alive Temple Town' in Maharashtra because of the belief that Lord Shani still resides in the self-emanated rock that represents him. An interesting fact about this town is all the amenities do not have doors. It is believed that Lord Shani himself protects the vicinity of Shani Shingnapur and no one dares to commit the act of theft at this place. Arrive in Aurangabad and checkin to the hotel and overnight.

 

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fees.

Highlights: Osho Ashram, Shani Signapur

 

Please Note : Osho Ashram visit is optional and on direct payment basis

 

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Day 6

Aurangabad - Ellora Caves - Daulatabad Fort - Aurangabad

After having breakfast in the hotel we will go on an excursion tour to Ellora Caves. The caves are over 2000 years old and consist of temples and monasteries made from rocks by Buddhist, Hindu and Jains monks and craftsmen. Ellora is a World Heritage Site and represents the epitome of Indian rock-cut architecture. The 34 "caves" - actually structures excavated out of the vertical face of the Charanandri hills. The 12 Buddhist (caves 1-12), 17 Hindu (caves 13-29) and 5 Jain (caves 30-34) caves, built in proximity, demonstrate the religious harmony prevalent during this period of Indian history. It is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India. After it you will go for Daulatabad Fort. Its towers over a conical hill 200 meters high. The fort has a place in Indian history, having overcome any previous attempts of invasion, it’s said that to this day the fort remains invulnerable. Daulatabad, or ‘the abode of wealth’ has a history dating back to 1327 when Muhammad-bin-Tughluq made it his capital. Later return to hotel for overnight stay in Aurangabad.

 

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fees.

Highlights: Ellora Caves. Daulatabad Fort

 

Please Note: Ellora caves are closed on Tuesday

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Day 7

Aurangabad Sightseeing Of Ajanta Caves

Morning Breakfast proceed to Ajanta to have full day excursion to Ajanta Caves - they are cut from the volcanic lavas of the Deccan trap in a steep crescent - shaped hillside in a forested ravine of the sahyadri hills, These caves are older than those at Ellora consisting of 24 monasteries and temples hewn out of solid rack. The wall paintings and frescoes of these caves are a wealth of colors. Later transfer to the hotel for overnight stay in Aurangabad.

 

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fees.

Highlights: Ajanta Caves

 

Please Note: Ajanta caves are closed on Monday

 

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Day 8

Aurangabad - Nashik (200 Km, 5 Hrs Approx.)

Breakfast at the hotel and transfer to Nashik. Arrival in Nashik and visit to the Sita Gufa. It was the spot from where Sita was kidnapped by Ravana. A narrow staircase leads to the caves. The caves house idols of Lord Ram, Sita and Lakshman as well as a Shivling, said to be the one Sita worshipped. Later visit the Trimbakeswar Temple, one of the most sacred temples in all of India as it houses one of the twelve most important shrines of Shiva. Although entry is only allowed to Hindus, it is possible to have a look at the courtyard. And then go for Sula Vineyards which is said to be the first winery of the city. Most of the famous companies have their factories set up in this place. The unparalleled experience of viewing the process of making wine will make you to fall in love with this place. Sula is the name that is derived from the owner’s mother’s name ”Sulabha”. If you visit this place, you will gain knowledge about the history behind the formation of this winery. Overnight in Nashik.

 

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fees

Highlight: Sita Gufa, Trimbakeswar Temple, Sula Vineyards

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Day 9

Nashik – Igatpuri – Mumbai (200 Km, 5 Hrs)

Transfer to Mumbai on the way you may visit the Dhamma Giri vipassana centre at Igatpuri. Dhamma Giri, meaning ‘Hill of Dhamma’ is one of the world’s largest Vipassana meditation centres. It is co-located with the Vipassana Research Institute at Igatpuri. Arrive in Mumbai & overnight.

 

Inclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Transport, Tourist Guide, Entrance fees

Highlight: Dhamma Giri vipassana centre

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Day 10

Mumbai - Airport

Breakfast at hotel transfer to the airport. No overnight.

 

Inclusions: Breakfast, Transport

End of our Services

 

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The hotels

MND Provides a wide variety of hotels

Cost Per Person For Different Categories

#No of PaxStandardSuperior Prestige

Supplements

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Inclusions

Exclusions

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

  • In accordance to the COVID 19 pandemic all our tours are operated with all precautionary measures including SANITIZED CARS AND HOTELS/COMPLIMENTARY SANITIZERS/MASKS (Your safety is our priority)
  • All Inclusive Tour. – Hotels / Transport / Guides / Monument Fees.
  • Excursion to Elephanta at Mumbai
  • Shared Ferry ride to go to the Elephanta caves.
  • Ajanta and Ellora caves at Aurangabad

Enquiry Form

Please fill the below form for more information

PASSPORT


A valid passport is required for at least six months before Boarding the Flight. We encourage you to check the validity of the passport and we advise you to bring a photocopy of your passport and the page of the visa obtained, or carry multiple copies of ETA, useful in case of loss.


 


INDIAN CONSULAR VISA


To enter India, an entry visa issued by the Indian Embassy is required. It is categorically necessary that all travellers, whose itinerary includes leaving and returning to the country, have obtained a double or multiple visas. During the flight to India you will be given a disembarkation form to be filled in with your data and to be delivered to passport control. The detachable part completed with the customs declaration will be returned to you, and must then be handed over to the customs upon leaving the airport.


 


INTERNAL FLIGHTS


Air tickets for flights within India or between India and Nepal, if not included in the intercontinental flight, will be collected by your companion or our representative and will be delivered to you upon arrival. Flights within India and between Nepal are the trickiest part of the journey. We recommend a lot of patience, because it is not uncommon for flights to suffer delays, cancellations or make intermediate stops not foreseen at the time of booking. It is therefore essential to always go to the airport on time (about 2 hours before the flight). In the event of cancellations, however, the companies, according to the new regulations, will refund the cost of the ticket but have no obligation to re-route. The rebooking will then be done by our local office by purchasing a new ticket. Purchasing it on the same day, the same fare as the canceled flight is not always available. In case this exceeds that of the cancelled flight, the difference must be paid directly on the spot. If there are no other flights on the scheduled route, a land transfer by car/bus will be provided in lieu of the ticket.


 


DOMESTIC FLIGHTS BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE


Since recently (August 2013) both on intercontinental flights and on internal flights, the companies are very strict in calculating the weight of the baggage and each additional kilogram is subjected to an extra payment according to the rules of the company itself. In this regard, we report the scheme concerning the baggage allowance for the economy class granted by each airline for flights within India and between India and Nepal:


 


Airline


Hand Baggage Weight


Checkin Luggage Weight


Air India


7 kg + Laptop


15 kg


Jet Airways


7 kg + Laptop


15 kg


Indigo & Spice Jet


7 kg + Laptop


15 kg


Go Air


7 kg + Laptop


15 kg


Jet Lite


7 kg + Laptop


15 kg


 


The company has the right to apply an extra cost for each kilogram exceeding the above, (indicatively from 4 to 8-euro per kg).


 


LOCAL GUIDES AND ESCORT TOURS


For the entire duration of the group tour, starting from your arrival in India, you will be assisted by a Tour Escort or local Guide (for individual tourists) in each city who will take care of every technical-organizational detail. The tour escort will also act as a local guide in the cities for which he is licensed. In the others he will be accompanied by a local foreign speaking guide or English-speaking guide as per the provisions of the Indian government. In the latter case, he will provide for the translation.


In many cities of India, in fact, there are no local guides speaking foreign languages (especially in southern India, central India and some parts of Rajasthan), or there are few.


 


THEFT


We remind you that passport, telephone and valuable accessories in general must always be kept by the passenger and never left unattended, as no service facility takes charge of any loss/theft during the tour. It is also good to have all the emergency bank numbers with you in case of need.


 


TIPS


In India, tipping is a custom rooted in local custom. The amount of tips is at the discretion of the passengers, but as a rule they are in the local custom. In restaurants it is customary to leave 10% of the bill as a tip.


 


A basic tip:


For half day drive with driver Rs. 300/ full day Rs. 500.


For porters Rs. 70 per bag


For Half Day Local Guide Rs. 500/ Full Day Rs. 800


Per Day Escorts Rs. 1000


 


(The amount is in total and refers to a group of 2/3 people, it can be increased if you are traveling in a group with more people)


For groups, even small in number but with tour escorts, it is advisable to give the guide a sum at the beginning of the tour (approximately 40/45 euros for 7/9 day tours) and he will distribute them appropriately, thus avoiding boring and continuous collections.


N.B. (This figure does not include a possible tip for the companion)


 


ROOM AVAILABILITY


The rooms are available until 12.00 on the day of departure. In India there is no day use system, therefore if the rooms want to be kept until departure they will have to be paid for the entire following night.


 


CHECK-IN ONLINE


We inform you that the check-in procedure can take place via online check-in, which can be implemented from the airlines' websites or via the automatic check-in devices specifically installed at the airport.


 


CLIMATE


The most pleasant season runs from mid-November to March, with moderate heat and low rainfall. The maximum temperatures vary from 27° to 30°, the minimums from 16° to 22°. In March the temperatures begin to rise with highs reaching 38°. The month of August records the peak of the monsoon season (from June to October) which invests the south-western regions with rainfall that varies in intensity according to the areas, limited in some to severe thunderstorms. In October and in the first half of November the south-eastern part of India is affected by a north-east monsoon.


 


CLOTHING


Clothing must take into account the period and the regions where you go. In southern India, light clothing can be worn all year round, without forgetting long trousers and long-sleeved shirts to protect against insects. During visits to the temples, excessively small clothing should be avoided. For those traveling to the northern regions, warmer clothing is needed, as the temperature can approach freezing in winter. In the desert region of Rajasthan the temperature varies a lot between day and night.


 


SHOPPING


In India the variety of handicraft production is practically infinite. Indian muslins, canvases, silks and brocades have enjoyed worldwide fame since ancient times and have been appreciated for the quality of the fabric, the beauty and resistance of the colors, the originality of the designs. Even today the brightly colored silk saris, embroidered or woven with gold or silver threads, the brocades of Varanasi as well as the cottons of Rajasthan, the wool or wool and silk carpets of Kashmir and Uttar Pradesh are renowned. The manufacture of fabrics is just one aspect of the varied and rich Indian craftsmanship which ranges from wood carving (teak, sandalwood, rosewood, ebony) spread almost everywhere, especially in Karnataka, to Agra marble inlays or the stone sculptures of Orissa, from ceramics to hand-painted lacquers, from brass and copper pottery to bamboo and leather objects. The skill of the Indians in the cutting and processing of semi-precious and precious stones has been known since ancient times. Haggling in the bazaars is common practice.


Do not buy souvenirs that cost animals their lives or harm nature.


 


FOOD AND DRINK


It is recommended to drink only bottled or boiled water (found in almost all restaurants and hotels). Carefully avoid tap water and ice in drinks. It is advisable to consume only well-cooked foods and packaged foods, avoiding raw vegetables and fruit that cannot be peeled.


 


MEDICAL ASSISTANCE


In India there is a great variety of doctors practicing the most diverse forms of therapy and the only hospital in Europe is located in Delhi. It is advisable to bring from Italy tablets against any gastrointestinal disorders and medicines that are difficult to find locally.


 


BEHAVIOUR


Before entering the temples, mosques and or gurdwaras it is essential to take off your shoes, generally it is allowed to keep your socks on. To avoid discomfort, do not bring leather articles of any kind with you, because they could arouse some opposition. Inside places of worship, tourists can move as they please and sometimes attend religious rites, for which it is preferable to wear modest clothes, avoiding tops, skirts and shorts. A small donation will be welcome.


The folded hands namaste is the typical Indian greeting and its use will be greatly appreciated. Especially in cities, men will gladly shake hands with tourists; in fact, this gesture is considered particularly cordial. The majority of Indian women, on the other hand, are reluctant to shake hands with a man, both Indian and foreign (a possible refusal should not be considered an offense) and are generally surprised by the informality of relations between the two sexes used in western countries. In private homes you will be welcomed as guests of honor and your lack of familiarity with local customs and traditions will be understood and accepted. If you should be tempted to eat with your fingers, remember to use onlyyour right hand.


 


GASTRONOMY


Indian cuisine varies according to the regions, with notable differences between the southern and northern regions, but has as a common feature the wise use of spices which are used not only to flavor foods but also to aid digestion. In the north it looks remarkably like that of Middle Eastern or Central Asian countries; there is great use of chili (hot pepper), the staple food is wheat, and various types of unleavened bread are consumed, such as pooris or chappatis. The meats are quite common, naturally not beef. In the south, where the Muslim influence has been less strong, vegetarian diets prevail, and the cuisine revolves around rice, consumed in an infinite variety of ways. The highly savory taste of Indian foods is related to the blend of spices frequently used in food preparation. These mixtures (kari) can accompany various vegetables, chicken or lamb meat, fish or rice. Rogan josh (lamb curry), gishtaba (spiced meatballs with yoghurt), korna (vegetable meat-based stews) are very common in the north. In the south, various vegetable dishes are widespread, including bhujia (a vegetable curry) and along the coasts, fish dishes, the Cochin prawns are delicious. Perhaps the most common dishes throughout India are, however, the simple dhal, essentially a lentil soup, and the thali, the typical vegetarian dish, usually served on a tray with small bowls full of vegetables accompanied by large -of quantity of rice. Among the desserts, kulfi, the typical pistachio ice cream, is very common, while tropical fruit is very abundant. It is a frequent habit to conclude the meal by chewing pal, a mixture of spices, betel nuts and other powders, all wrapped up in an edible leaf. Tea is the most popular drink and some varieties of Indian tea are famous all over the world. Try the rice beer.


 


LANGUAGE


In India a large number of local languages are spoken, very different from region to region, among which Hindi is the official one. English represents a strong instrument of national cohesion and is very widespread, especially in hotels or in places frequented by Westerners.


 


RELIGION


Religion forms an integral part of India's complex tradition. Four of the most important faiths in the world meet on this territory: Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity and Islam and among these the first two were born in India. furthermore, this country which welcomed the Jews and the Parsees (followers of Zoroaster), who then integrated into Indian life, gave rise to Jainism, Sikhism and other innumerable cults and regional sects of lesser importance and which for centuries have acted and interacted with each other.


 


AIRPORT FEES


They usually already include exit taxes from the country. However, we recommend checking at the airport, as these are subject to change regulations.


 


PHONE


The cellular network is active in the country, however Italian cell phones are only active in the main cities and it is therefore advisable to purchase a card locally. To call from India the area code is 0039. To call India dial 0091.


 


VACCINATIONS


No mandatory vaccination is required for travelers from Italy. Before travelling, it is advisable to consult the competent ASL on the need to carry out vaccinations or appropriate prophylaxis. In general, subject to medical opinion, vaccinations against: diphtheria, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tuberculosis, polio and tetanus booster are recommended. However, we recommend checking the Viaggiare Sicuri website at the link http://www.viaggiaresicuri.it/index.php?india


 


CURRENCY


The legal tender in India is the Indian Rupee. It is advisable to have currency in US dollars especially for entrances, Euros are also welcome. No Indian currency can be brought into the country or exported, while any amount of foreign currency can be imported. It is very complicated to exchange the Rupee in another currency, so it is advisable to buy in such quantities as to no longer have liquids in local currency at the time of departure. Credit cards, preferably from the VISA circuit, are accepted both in authorized shops and in hotels in large cities, where automated bank branches can also be used.


 












 

Our Staff


Our guides and professional escorts have experience in the area and in-depth cultural preparation. We can provide Guides in differenr languages also in most of the sectors but in some areas there shall be only english speaking Guides available, Such as Ladakh and the Himalayan areas, Kindly do check it with our travel experts regarding the availabiluty.


 


Means of transport


Our organization boasts a large fleet of new generation air-conditioned means of transport: from standard or deluxe cars (2/3 pax) to Overland vehicles (2/3 pax); from minibuses (4/8 pax) to grand tour buses (10/40 pax), with professional English speaking drivers, always attentive to the needs of travelers. The roads that connect the main cities of India are generally good. Indian Traffic conditions limit the transfer times to an average of 50 km per hour.


 


Hotels and tented camps


In Indian Subcontinent, the official category of hotels does not guarantee international standards and does not always correspond to the expectations of the traveler. The structures that MTA chooses, from luxury hotels, to Heritage Hotels (former residences of the Maharajas), to lower category hotels, are periodically supervised by our staff. In the Himalayan areas of Ladakh, hotels are provided among the best existing and standard tented camps with limited comfort, where a good spirit of adaptation is required.


 


Flights


The Major airports where International flights Land are Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Almost all of the major International Airliens have theor scheduled flights from these cities. including Swiss, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, BrusselsAirlines and Etihad.


 


Personalized trips


Our Product Managers are available to travelers to develop personalized itineraries (for individuals or groups) and offer ad hoc programming, designed with maximum flexibility and with smallest details, for those who want to immerse themselves in the magic and spirituality of " Land of the Gods” outside the classic Itineraries or with programs already present in the catalog. MTA is also available to develop personalized travels in cinema, nature, sports, honeymoons, incentive travel, business tourism and medical tourism in India.


 


India Visa


To obtain an entry visa to India it is essential to have a passport valid for 6 months from the date of travel (with at least three consecutive free pages), and two passport photos. you can apply for ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) The Link of the website is https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa Kindly check for permission Granted on ETA before boarding your flight.