Darjeeling, Sikkim & The Singalila Ridge

Although not strictly necessary, some people do like to take them along as they can be useful, especially on the descents. However, remember to pack them in your hold luggage.

Brendan Phelan - Customer Operations

Any time I go out, I normally just take sterling cash which, as long as you excercise the normal degree of common sense you would at home, is safe and easy. The India rupee is a closed currency, meaning you can only get it upon arrival in the country. There are exchange facilities at all arrival airports, and ATMs are available pretty much everywhere as well in case you need to top up along the way.

Brendan Phelan - Customer Operations

Unfortunately we are not qualified to answer all your questions in regards to travel health, so we strongly recommend you contact your GP or a Travel Health Clinic at least 8 weeks prior to departure for up-to-date information.

Nomad Travel Clinics are experts in preparing people for travel, providing advice on vaccinations, anti-malarial and staying healthy whilst overseas. We have arranged a special 10% discount for Exodus passengers on any vaccinations that you may require! Take along your Nomad discount card, sent with your confirmation pack, or call Exodus for your special discount code.
Visit www.nomadtravel.co.uk/exodus for further information.

For additional information please visit: www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk

Charlotte Taylor - India Operations

A definite place to visit when you have an extra day in Delhi is a trip to the new Akshardham Temple. Situated on the outskirts of New Delhi in the embankment of River Yamuna, this sprawling Swaminarayan Akshardham spreads over 100 acres of land and is renowned for its carved pillars, water fountains and 20,000 statues. Made from white marble and pink stone this new temple was only completed in 2005 which makes it less well known by Western tourists or the guide books. A visit to the temple is the perfect way to explore the amazing world of Indian culture and get a unique view of the Hindu religion.
Other ‘must see’ places are the Red Fort, Humayum’s Tomb (a forerunner to the Taj Mahal), Qutab Minar, Tuqulaquabad, Purana Quila.
The National Museum is very interesting as is the Gandhi Smriti, a museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi.

- Customer Operations

You can find a comprehensive article covering this matter here: http://www.himalayanrescue.org/hra/article.php?sno=9

Alex Doaga - Exodus leader

The cable car in Gangtok, Sikkim provides spectacular views of the local market and the surrounding valleys. It also serves as a good transport connection between Deorali, Nam-Nang and Tashiling.

Kim Christie - Customer Operations

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) is now listed as by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The Batasia loop between Darjeeling and Ghum provides panoramic views on the surrounding hills and Mount Kanchendjunga. The joyride will stop off at the Batasia loop for about 10 minutes as it is the most scenic spot on the route, a trip to Ghum museum is also recommended.

Tiger Hill offers the world’s best sunrise! 11km from Darjeeling a 4am start will allow you to experience the most magnificent sunrise over the Mount Kanchendjunga range. As the sun appears the mountains change colour and on a clear morning Mount Everest is visible.

Kim Christie - Customer Operations

Glenary’s is a great place for cakes, pastries and Darjeeling tea and offers great views of Mount Kanchendjunga on clear days. Kunga’s is one of the best restaurants for Tibetan cuisine, the steamed momos are a must!

Kim Christie - Customer Operations

Natasha Owen travelled on this trip and you can read her article here to get a personal viewpoint of the holiday.

India has delicious food to cater for all preferences but, like anywhere in the world, hygiene is important.  Keeping your hands well washed before eating, staying as hydrated as possible and sticking to bottled water is the best protection against an upset tum. Otherwise, mashed potato is apparently a good cure!

Brendan Phelan - Customer Operations

Please visit the Exodus Travel Guide to India where you can find out what plugs they use, as well as more detailed Country information in the menu on the left of the page.

No. Indian visas must be pre-arranged in advance. Check the Indian embassy website for details.

http://in.vfsglobal.co.uk/

Will Shoubridge - Agency Sales

You can view the Grading System for our Walking & Trekking programme online.

All the staff at Exodus share a passion for adventure travel, and are always happy to answer any questions you may have. You can find an expert for the area you are interested in here and can contact them to get further information. If you don't see your specific country listed, please email customerops@exodus.co.uk and they will get the answers you need!