We always enjoy hearing about the travel experiences of Sodha Travelers. Recently, Katie S. from Pittsburgh, PA sent us the following testimonial from her enchanting 12-day trip in Sri Lanka:
Tea Pickers in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
To start this mail, let me just say that Sri Lanka is a dream come alive. I had visions and expectations of the island being a paradise and yet so different from home. I just never anticipated the extraordinary kindness of the people, the pristine coastlines, and natural diversity. I also never thought the guides, reps, and my driver would be such an important and memorable part of the trip. Your team was so professional, informative, and thorough. I hope to return to Sri Lanka not just for a vacation but mostly to connect with the people who added such warmth to my journey. I cannot thank you enough for planning and executing a memorable trip. You know those vacations that people always talk about as changing their life? This was mine and I will never, ever forget it. I cannot say enough good things about Sodha Travel and I look forward to planning my next trip with you. Thank you again.
Thank you, Katie. If you are interested in more information about Sri Lanka, check out our May newsletter that highlights Kandy, considered the most scenic destination in this island nation. We always welcome your feedback: travel@sodhatravel.com.
“India is the greatest show on earth,” Oprah said after her whirlwind week-long visit to the country– and no wonder: she saw four of India’s top tourist destinations in one go! Oprah’s Next Chapter highlighted some of the most exciting places India has to offer, but there’s still plenty to be discovered in each of these enchanting cities.
If you’re inspired to follow the travels of Oprah, Sodha Travel can arrange unique and affordable custom tour packages to India. There’s so much to do in each city that a personalized tour, tailored to your tastes, can really help you maximize your trip.
Mumbai
You could stay in Mumbai for months and never exhaust it, though it’s best known internationally as the capitol of Bollywood. Picturesque spots such as the Elephanta Island and the Gateway of India – also visited by Oprah– provide opportunities for sightseeing, whereas Mumbai’s vibrant nightlife can keep you entertained any and every evening. But Mumbai is perhaps best experienced on foot, where you can see the culture that Oprah found so inspiring first-hand.
Agra
Agra is the home to the magnificent Taj Mahal, which needs no introduction, but the city offers more than this wonder of the world. There’s other breathtaking architecture in the form of Agra Fort, and as a former center of the Mughul Dynasty’s empire, there’s rich history to be found everywhere– in the museums, restaurants, and intricate traditional puppet shows.
Jaipur
Oprah attended Jaipur’s annual Literary Festival, but there’s plenty to do in the city during the rest of the year. The breathtaking Palace of Winds is perhaps Jaipur’s best known architectural wonder– you can’t go inside, but the exterior is truly a marvel. And Jaipur is the “crafts capital” of India; many artisan-families peddle their wares here, their crafts the result of generations honing their skills.
Rishikesh
Rishikesh is surrounded by beautiful mountains; and India’s sacred river, the Ganges, winds through it. Appropriately enough, it’s a spiritual haven. Yogis flock here to perfect their art, and there are numerous meditation centers and retreats. Rishikesh is also known for its phenomenal opportunities for adventure, including white water rafting and extraordinary camping locations.
If you want to follow Oprah’s journey, specialized tour packages to India can give you the opportunity to experience each city in a personalized way. Come join us!
Did you know that Sodha Travel has a department that caters to female travelers? Gender specific services include women guides and escorts (when available) and specialized activities, including mehndi sessions, culinary classes and spa services. Some of our female travelers have also selected a personalized shopping excursion and tailor-made traditional clothing, while others have requested visits to special needs organizations. As a woman who has traveled to India many times in various capacities – professionally, leisurely, alone, with friends and with family – I found my experiences very rewarding. For more information and recommendations, check out my recent article on Travelhoppers – Tips for Female Travelers to India.
Also, remember that our women-only Colors of India tour still has space available! Explore the treasures of North India in Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Rajsamand and Udaipur. Highlights include a sunset visit to the Taj Mahal, overnight stay in an historic Mewar Palace, and a private mehndi (henna) session. Be sure to contact our team for more information or to register!
Sodha Travel continues to be rated 5* by an independent traveler review on Tripology! We are proud to have maintained this level of excellence since 2008 and extend a warm thank you to all of our clients! As the owner of Sodha Travel, I am the primary contact with all travelers on Tripology and am privileged to be rated a Platinum Tripologist, based on volume and service. Here are a couple of the recent reviews received:
Allison put together an amazing 3-week tour of India for myself and my mother. We wanted to see as much of the country as possible without becoming overwhelmed, and Allison did a wonderful job of crafting a beautiful, varied, and extremely well-paced trip. We enjoyed every stop along the way and always felt that we were in good hands. We were really able to relax and savor the experiences thanks to the excellent planning. Thank you!
Caroline S., Ohio, United States
Allison asked quite a few questions before recommending things for me to consider. She listened to my suggestions & patiently answered my questions & my trip turned out beautifully. I was very pleased with her services. Melissa P., South Carolina, United States
Tripology is an excellent resource for travelers seeking a destination specialist. Fill out a quick trip profile, including destination, travel dates, budget and activities, and a specialist will contact you to discuss your travel plans. It is free for travelers and a wonderful way to connect with a certified agent that specializes in your destination! We have met several of our clients via Tripology and look forward to connecting with many more prospective travelers to India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bhutan.
Our April edition of the Sodha Traveler is now available, with the spotlight on Pokhara. Pokhara is the 2nd largest city in Nepal and was historically an important trading route between China and India. Until the 1960′s, Pokhara was only accessible by foot and the region is popular for trekking, boating, rafting, and other adventure activities.
Our April Featured Tour is Legends of Nepal. Highlights of this 9-day itinerary include a safari in Chitwan National Park, a visit to picturesque Pokhara Valley and an optional flight to view Mt. Everest. Also experience the Kathmandu Valley that incorporates Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur. Nepali culture is similar to the neighboring countries of India and China and the folklore is often illustrated in dance and music. For a small territory, the country boasts an uncommonly diverse terrain, including eight of the world’s top ten highest mountains. Here are a few additional fast facts about Nepal:
Location: Between India and the Tibetan Autonomous Region of the People’s Republic of China
Area: 147,181 Sq .Kms.
Population: 23.2 million
Capital: Kathmandu
Political System: Multiparty democracy with constitutional monarch head
Official Language: Nepali
Reserve Legends of Nepal in the month of April and receive $75 off registration!