What inspired you to become a tour guide?
When I was a young child, I loved talking to people, especially foreigners visiting India. As I grew up, this continued. I always found it as interesting to find out about other countries as I did to tell people about my own country. I thoroughly enjoy this work, and we love our job.
How long have you been working as a tour guide?
I started my career as a tour guide back in 2008, and now have over 15 years experience in the tourism industry. I am pleased to say that I have delivered guided tours to thousands of people .
Which locations do you operate tours in?
Our tours run all over North India, and include Delhi, Punjab, Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh.
What languages do you run the tours in?
Tours can be given in our mother tongue Hindi, English, and Russian.
What do you most enjoy about being a tour guide?
It’s a profession where you are able to meet and interact with different nationalities every day. We get to speak about our history and culture, and the job is varied; no two days are the same.
In this line of work, we have lots of fun, entertainment, adventure, and of course, it’s a great way to exchange knowledge.
What makes your tours unique or special?
When you take a tour with us, we will ensure your experience is easy, safe and comfortable. We will truly show you the hidden beauty of India.
What are some of the most interesting or memorable experiences you’ve had while leading a tour? Do you have any funny stories that you could share with us?
I would say that all of our tours have memorable moments, although I must admit that my best tour experience was with a group in Leh, Ladakh.
One of my most memorable tour stories happened before Covid. I met a couple from America – Jeff and Annie. Jeff initially came for business, and later Annie joined him in India to visit the Taj Mahal. When you enter the monument, it’s customary to pose for the famous photo on Lady Diana’s seat, named after her visit to the Taj Mahal in 1992.
As we reached the photo spot, just as I was about to take the photo, Jeff suddenly pulled out a ring from his pocket and proposed to Annie. She was shocked and visibly emotional. It was a special moment, and I was grateful to have captured it on camera for them both!
What is the average group size for your tours? What is the maximum tour size you can take?
Our tours cater for couples, families, and groups so generally we don’t have an average group size. The maximum tour group size we have taken was for 35 people for 10 days.
What would you say are the key benefits of hiring a tour guide?
Of course, there are many benefits when you hire a tour guide; it’s not only to provide insight into the historical aspect of a tourist attraction or location.
Tour guides can easily make bookings for you and your party. We also benefit from being locals, so we know the quickest and most scenic routes, as well as the best places to sightsee, including the optimal times. Our tours are safe and comfortable, offering you the opportunity to truly experience our beautiful country as we do.
Guides will help you save time and money, especially if Hindi isn’t your first language. We will also explain practical matters and tailor the tour to your needs.
Is there anything else you’d like visitors to know about you or your work as a tour guide?
We are not the travel agent. We are a tour guide and an ambassador of our country. We Indians follow old traditions in hospitality, called Atithi Devo Bhavo – (Guest is Our God).
Our tours take the stress out of travelling, and allow you to simply enjoy your vacation.
If you’re looking to find out further information about Wasim and touring Northern India, or would like to enquire about rates, please contact us via the form below:
