India Brochure

INDIA Sri Lanka • Nepal • Bhutan • Tibet

ABTA No.N1031

Contents Introduction...............................................................2

Ladakh - Endless Discoveries.................................28

Adventure Tours......................................................56

Index..........................................................................3

In the Footsteps of Buddha....................................30

Festivals................................................................... 57

Map............................................................................4

Coast to Coast.......................................................... 32

Wellness Holidays...................................................58

Our Airline Partners...................................................6

Legacy of the Past..................................................34

City Breaks...............................................................60

Groups and Incentives..............................................8

Taj, Raj and the Golden Temple.............................36

Hotel Partners.........................................................64

Weddings & Honeymoons........................................9

A Taste of Southern India.......................................38

The Indian Islands...................................................70

Gourmet Tour of Northern India............................40

Goa Resorts and Hotel Selection........................... 73

Hampi and Deccan..................................................42

Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet........................................88

Palace on Wheels....................................................44

Sri Lanka Tours and Resorts...................................94

Maharajas Express..................................................46

Concierge Services................................................ 102

Golden Triangle in Luxury.......................................48

Private Jet Hire...................................................... 103

Cruising The Kerala Backwaters in Luxury............50

Useful and additional information...................... 104

In Search of Tigers.................................................. 52

Terms & Conditions...............................................106

Tours Golden Triangle....................................................... 10 Tour Extensions....................................................... 14 Coconut Tour of Kerala............................................ 18 Royal Rajasthan......................................................20 The Colours of Gujarat............................................22 Scenic Himachal Pradesh.......................................24 Sceninc Mountain Railways...................................54 In the Footsteps of the Yeti....................................26 Call of the Wild and Romantic Taj.......................... 55

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The Golden triangle

Royal Rajasthan

Colours of Gujarat

Coast to Coast

Glimpses of Raj and Taj

Footsteps of the Yeti

04

Hampi and Deccan

Ladakh & Endless Discovery

Legacy of the Past

Top 12 Tours

A Taste of Southern India

Scenic Himachal Pradesh

Coconut Tour of Kerala

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Flight Introduction Your First step The first step to a successful holiday is to book the right flights that suit your needs and with Travelpack you have numerous flight options to choose from. All of our Airline partners provide the service you would expect from a world-class carrier. Daily services to most destinations and many airlines have refitted their aircraft to give you extra legroom in economy class with up to a 34-inch pitch for extra comfort on state of the art aircraft.

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Direct & Indirect There are direct flights to many destinations from London airports and we also offer flights from 18 other UK airports via a number of gateways including Heathrow, Amsterdam, Paris and the Middle East. With competitive prices and excellent connections in most instances, it is easier than ever to travel to the Indian subcontinent from all parts of the UK. Remember that on the majority of these connecting flights your baggage will be checked in through to your arrival destination.

Our travel experts will be happy to advise you on routes, stopover opportunities and holiday options, and remember that one call does it all!

Upgrade your flight Upgrading your flight to one of the many ‘super comfort’ options offered by airlines or even Business/First Class is often less expensive than you would think. Travelpack have great fares available in all classes, so if you are celebrating a special occasion such as a honeymoon, wedding anniversary, retirement, birthday; or you just want to treat yourself, discuss your options with one of our experts when you call.

Airfares Airfares change frequently as do taxes and passengers charges, so for the latest fares check on our web site or with your local travel agent.

JET AIRWAYS Jet Airways operates daily non-stop flights from Heathrow to Delhi and Mumbai, with onward connections to destinations in India and beyond. Economy Class: seats are designed to offer optimum space. Each seat has a touch screen with on-demand entertainment and interactive games. Première: Lie flat bed, surrounded by a wall of privacy. Inflight entertainment with LCD touch screen. Choose from a selected premium menu or help-yourself snack at their dry bar.

First Class: Fully flat bed in your own private bedroom. Personalised five course meal with a selection of cuisines. State-of-the-art entertainment with LCD screen featuring live news text, CD jukebox.

VIRGIN ATLANTIC A World-Leader for over 26 years, Virgin Atlantic has provided awardwinning, products and friendly service in all classes. Economy: Average seat pitch of 31”.

A choice of mains, complimentary drinks and snacks plus over 300 hours of entertainment on the seat back screen. Premium Economy: Dedicated check in, priority boarding, large, wide leather seat with 38” of legroom. Choice of meals. An after dinner liqueur plus fruit or ice cream while you watch a movie. Upper Class: 33” wide flat bed. Eat what you want, when you want with the freedom menu.

Drink at our on board bar.

ETIHAD Etihad connects triple daily from London Heathrow and double daily from Manchester to over 70 destinations, including eight in India. Economy: 600 hours of entertainment on large, personal screens.

Child services with activity packs and dedicated in-flight entertainment. Business class: Fully flat beds plus dedicated Food & Beverage Manager. 15” personal screen, private door-to-door chauffeur service and Six Senses Spa treatments in the Etihad lounges.

First class: Private suite with sliding doors plus 6’8” fully flat bed. Food & Beverage Manager, 23” personal screen, mini-bar, doorto-door chauffeur service and Six Senses Spa treatments in the Etihad lounges.

AIR INDIA Economy: A new cabin providing customers with a relaxing environment. Enjoy a selection of meals and beverages while watching movies. Executive Class: Exclusive check-in and lounge access. The cabin is ideal for both business and leisure travellers.

Spacious cabins and plush seats. Sample entrees with wine whilst enjoying films, drama and news. First Class: Newly installed, highly comfortable, 180-degree recline, sleeperette, ensuring that you disembark refreshed. The cabin seats 12 passengers.

Choose from a selection of delectable dishes from three menus plus fine wines.

SRI LANKAN AIRLINES Sri Lankan Airlines flies non-stop from Heathrow to Colombo and the Maldives with connections to Trivandrum, Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai. Economy class: Features 32” seat pitch, seat back TV with 18 channels, 22 audio channels, a choice of meals and complimentary bar service. Business Class: A spacious 4’10” to 5’ seat pitch, with 30-46 degrees recline, choice of meals and complimentary bar service; television screens.

A complimentary airport limousine for clients within 100-mile radius of Heathrow.

QATAR AIRWAYS Qatar Airways has been voted Airline of the Year in 2011 & 2012 by *Skytrax World Airline Awards. The airline flies to over 120 destinations worldwide including India and beyond. Economy Class: Seat pitch up to 34” and on demand entertainment with movies, video games and satellite TV. Business Class: 180 degree flat bed seats, in-seat massage and power supply.

Touch-screen in-flight entertainment, 15.4” monitors and over 770 audio/visual options.

First Class: Personalised chauffeur service.

Flat bed service with feather duvet and full entertainment. Ten-course meal with a selection of fine wines and champagnes.

EMIRATES Emirates operates 15 daily flights to Dubai from UK airports with connections to 10 cities in India including Mumbai, Delhi, Cochin, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad. Economy Class: Spacious seats, seat-back monitors with multiple entertainment choices. Enjoy award winning cuisine, fine wine and beverages selected by top chefs. Business Class: Flat bed up to 79” long. In-seat power to laptops, dual port USB, extra-large table and extensive wide-screen entertainment. On board lounge offers mid-flight enjoyment. First Class: Suite with a sliding door, mini-bar, wardrobe and fully flat bed with a mattress. Selected meals with wines. Complimentary chauffeur service to your nearest UK airport of departure.

AIR FRANCE/ KLM Air France & KLM airlines currently offer their customers 244 destinations in 106 countries from their hubs at Paris Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam Schiphol, where you can conveniently transfer to a range of onward connections to India and beyond. Economy Class: Is designed for your comfort. Enjoy a choice of meals and beverages throughout. Premium Economy*: 20% more leg room and wider seats with 10”x 4” seat back monitors. Business Class: Seats transform into 190cm sleeper beds.

A canopy allows privacy throughout. An individual personal entertainment system features 500 hours plus of on demand choice.

La Premiere*: Curved seats converting to 6’5” beds. Award winning meals and selected products make up the La Première menu. *Only available with Air France

BRITISH AIRWAYS British Airways flies from Heathrow non-stop to Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru and beyond.

Standard or online check in available on most flights and tickets World Traveller: Offers a 31” seat pitch with lumbar support, footrest and adjustable headrest. 3 course meals with complimentary bar service and personal TV screens with audio video on demand. Access to 200 film, television and music channels.

World Traveller Plus: A maximum of six rows of seats. A 38” seat pitch, wider seat with adjustable headrest, leg rest, footrest and lumbar support. A personal television, choice of meals and complimentary bar service all feature. Club World: Club World departure and arrival lounges and treatments in the Elemis Travel Spa. 25% wider Club World seats extend to 6 fully flat beds, with large tables and personal TVs. Excellent local and international cuisine, along with a dedicated wine cellar throughout the flight. Hot and cold snacks and beverages also available.

First: Dedicated check-in desks, departure and arrival lounges and treatments in the Elemis Travel Spa. On-board suite in a private environment; seats convert into a 6’6” fully flat bed with duvet, pillows and overnight sleeper suit.

Fold-down companion seat allows shared dining. Pre-flight dining available at London Heathrow. On board choose from a formal gourmet menu or informal dining, accompanied by fine wines and champagnes.

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Groups & Incentive

Travelpack have been arranging group travel, including conference and incentives, for over thirty years. We offer an immediate response to your requests via email or telephone and will make every effort to meet your group needs.

India offers some of the most exciting group and incentive destinations, with possibilities ranging from wonderful wildlife experiences, spectacularly scenic resorts, and beautiful beach get-aways. The lure of India delivers outstanding results in a group or incentive program and Travelpack delivers India like no one else! Travelpack will create a bespoke day-by-day itinerary, providing a comprehensive service for you and your VIPs. We can assist with promotional activities, and marketing materials as well as enhance your program with a variety of themed events, optional excursions and top line entertainment.

India Incentives: India today is a free vibrant economy and an Ideal destination for Incentives offering: • Luxury Heritage Palace Hotels • Luxury Train journeys such as the • Maharajas’ Express and Palace on Wheels • Luxury Cruising on the Kerala Backwaters • Rich Culture Heritage • Team building activities : White Water Rafting, Hiking, Mountain Biking etc.

• Festivals • Stunning Beaches, Mountains and Islands • Hospitable, Warm friendly; Smiling people • Vibrant colourful bazaars and shopping malls Mixed up with some extraordinary evenings: • Grand Rajasthani evening in Samode Palace near Jaipur • Mughal Theme Dinner in Agra • Fishing village theme party in Goa and much more Meetings & Conferences: The World’s Conference Destination: India is an ideal destination for conferences with vast Conference and Congress facilities throughout the country. Many International organisations, associations, institutions have held their conferences in India. With state-of-the-art equipment, including broadband internet connectivity and facilities for teleconferencing, major hotels in India are ideal destinations for conferences and conventions.

Travelpack UK can provide valuable support before during and after the conference. For complete range of services, please log on to our website www.travelpack.com

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Weddings and Honeymoons

of the Himalayas or a sun-filled wedding in Goa there is

WEDDINGS Travelpack has been helping couples arrange their special day abroad for over twenty years, so you can be sure that your wedding is in safe hands.

We appreciate that every bride and groom is different.

So after discussing your requirements we will tailor some specific options just for you, to suit your personalities and of course budget. Your big day doesn’t have to cost big bucks. We will tailor the arrangements to fit your budget whether you want cheap-and-cheerful, chic-and-boutique or deliriously-grand; we will find the perfect solution. As an ATOL bonded Tour Operator you can be assured that your money is safe when you book your wedding arrangements with Travelpack. Our out of hours service will help you organise your wedding when it suits you – not us! And our 24/7 service also guarantees there is someone on hand to help with any emergencies along the way.

Groups – bringing a large party of guests to your wedding?

Ask us about our special ‘Bride & Groom’ incentives!

something for every taste and budget.

For more information contact your Travel Agent or email weddings@travelpack.com

India offers some of the most romantic settings in the world as well as iconic landmarks which make a fabulous backdrop to a Wedding or Honeymoon. Whether it be the vibrant excitement of Mumbai, the spectacular backdrop

HONEYMOONS The big day is over and it’s time to spend some special time together. Let us help you make the perfect start to your life together and create a honeymoon just for you. Whether you want to relax in the luxury of a five-star beach resort, or party the nights away in Goa, or share adventures on a Himalayan hike, or cruise the Kerala backwaters – we have something for everyone.

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LH

AG RA

DE I

JAIPUR

the

Golden Triangle

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Extremely popular with first time visitors, this introductory tour, The Golden Triangle of India (Delhi-Jaipur-Agra) has made a firm imprint on the tourist map. The combination of all three cities presents a potpourri of the best of India.

This tour highlights the harmonious amalgamation of the country’s capital with its historic splendour, the soft romantic aura of the Taj Mahal in Agra, and the fierce magnificence of Jaipur - which was painted pink to honour the visit of the Prince of Wales in 1876.

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Golden Triangle Tour – 8 Days / 7 Nights Price From:

The combination of all three cities presents the potpourri of India.

Arrive Delhi

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Standard Accommodation: £979 per person Luxury Accommodation: £2599 per person Day 1: Arrive Delhi. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a 2-night stay.

Day 2: Delhi. Full day sightseeing tour of Delhi. Explore the Qutab Complex which houses India’s biggest single tower, the Qutab Minar, and the 4th century rust free Iron Pillar; the Mughal citadel named Lal Qila (Red Fort); and Lutyens’ Delhi. Also, visit the grand Jama Masjid and Humayan’s Tomb – a monument commissioned

by Bega Begum in memory of her beloved husband.

Day 3: Delhi to Jaipur. Drive to Jaipur, the famed ‘Pink City’ and the capital of Rajasthan known for its palaces, hill forts and its excellent shopping. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 4: Jaipur. Morning excursion to Amber - capital of the old state of Dhundhar - located on the rugged hills that surround Jaipur. Ride the colourfully painted elephants up the hill, admire the massive gateways, courtyards, stairways, pillared pavilions and palaces that recall the glory and wealth of the Mughals.

During the afternoon visit the City Palace; Jantar Mantar (the Royal Observatory) and Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds).

Delhi

Jaipur

Jaipur

Day 5: Jaipur to Agra. Drive to Agra, en route visit Fatehpur Sikri - the imperial ruins of the dream capital city of the Great Mughal Emperor Akbar.

Evening at leisure.

Day 6: Agra. Visit the Taj Mahal this morning.

Nothing can prepare you for the experience of this monument. Built by The Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631 giving birth to their 14th child. It is an acclaimed architectural masterpiece and one of the wonders of the world. 20,000 workers laboured for 22 years to build this sublime garden tomb of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan.

The unique mughal style combines elements of Persian, Central Asian, and Islamic architecture. In the afternoon visit Agra Fort and the Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, also known as ‘Baby Taj’.

Day 7: Agra to Delhi. Morning at leisure. Drive to Delhi visiting the Tomb of Emperor Akbar at Sikandra en route. Stay overnight in Delhi.

Day 8: Depart Delhi. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Agra

What’s Included: • 7 nights’ accommodation on bed and breakfast basis • Meet & assist at airports & hotels by our local representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursion as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Entrance fees • Services of local English speaking guide as per the itinerary during city tours • Cycle Rickshaw ride at Old Delhi • Elephant/Jeep joy ride at Amber Fort, Jaipur

Featured Hotels City

Tourist

Standard

Deluxe

Delhi

Piccadilly Hotel

Royal Plaza

Metropolitan Hotel

Agra

Clark Shiraz Hotel

Clark Shiraz Hotel

Trident Hotel

Jaipur

Holiday Inn

Country Inn and Suites

Trident Hotel

Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation. Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

Agra

Delhi & Depart

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TOUR EXTENSIONS Once you have experienced the Golden Triangle or one of our other tours there are literally hundreds of options to get the most out of your visit to India.

Goa

Shimla

From £1845 per person Goa is India’s main beach and party destination. A former Portuguese colony, Goa is a melting pot of cultures and religions and is a masterpiece of nature. Experience the south of Goa for pristine white sands lined by palm trees and a selection of luxury hotels; or the north with it s vibrant nightlife, eclectic shopping and a huge selection of tourist accommodation options.

Day 1: Delhi to Goa, by air. Fly from Delhi to Goa. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your Goa hotel for a 6 night stay Day 2: - 6: Goa. The former Portuguese colony is yours to explore at leisure Day 7: Goa to Mumbai, by air. Transfer to the airport and fly to Mumbai. Capital of Maharashtra, Mumbai is India’s most dynamic and cosmopolitan city. Skyscrapers stand next to stately Victorian buildings, and traditional bazaars adjoin littering shopping malls.

Transfer to Leela Kempinski at Mumbai airport Day 8: Depart Mumbai. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

FOR FULL DETAILS ON ALL OUR GOA HOTEL OPTIONS SEE PAGES 72-95.

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From £685 per person Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh, famous as the summer capital of the British Raj. Set in a spectacular location with thickly forested slopes and invigorating climate which attracts countless visitors.

Day 1: Delhi to Shimla, by rail. Transfer to New Delhi railway station to embark on your scenic train journey to Shimla, en route change trains at Kalka. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a 4 night stay.

Day 2: - 4: Shimla. At leisure to explore The Ridge promenade, Christ Church, The Mall, lower bazaar, the state museum, Jakhu hill temple and the famous Viceroy Lodge at your own pace.

Day 5: Shimla to Delhi, by rail. Drive to Kalka to board your train to Delhi. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to the airport to board your onward flight.

Amritsar

Ajanta Ellora & Udaipur

From: £340 per person

From: £1375 per person

Amritsar is the holy city of the Sikh community. The renowned Golden Temple was built between 1589 and 1601 and is a superb synthesis of the Islamic and Hindu styles of architecture. The extraordinary building is fashioned from marble, mirror work and gold, which is beautifully reflected in a stunning expanse of water and best seen in the early morning light

2nts Udaipur • 3nts Aurangabad

Day 1: Delhi to Amritsar, by train. Transfer to New Delhi railway station to board your train to Amritsar. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a 3 night stay Day 2: - 3: Amritsar. At leisure to explore, the spiritual centre of the Sikh religion - the Golden Temple complex and Jallianwala Bagh the site of an infamous massacre that took place in 1919. Visitors to the Golden Temple must remove their shoes, wash their feet and cover their heads with a scarf.

Day 4: Depart Amritsar. Transfer to the railway station to board your train to Delhi

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the earliest and finest examples of Buddhist painting in India can be seen at 30 extraordinary rock-cut caves at Ajanta. Executed between the 2nd century BC and the 5th century AD, the murals are still rich in colours. The 34 caves at Ellora fall into 3 distinct groups – Buddhist, Hindu and Jain. Your stay in the fairy-tale city of Udaipur, with its marble palaces and emerald lakes is sure to be a memorable one.

Day 1: Delhi to Udaipur, by air. Fly from Delhi to Udaipur. Transfer to your hotel for a 2 night stay.

Day 2: Udaipur. Explore the City Palace, Jag Temple, Jagdish Temple and the famous Lake Pichola with its island palace Day 3: Udaipur to Aurangabad, by air. Transfer to airport and fly from Udaipur to Aurangabad via Mumbai for a 3 night stay at your hotel. Day at leisure.

Day 4: Aurangabad (Ajanta). A full day excursion to see the famous Ajanta murals, which show the scenes from Buddha’s life and from the Jakata tales. Return to Aurangabad, overnight stay.

Day 5: Aurangabad (Ellora). Morning sightseeing tour to the Ellora cave temples, carved to perfection. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight stay Day 6: Aurangabad to Delhi, by air. Transfer to the airport and fly from Aurangabad to Delhi. Continue on your onward journey

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TOUR EXTENSIONS

Corbett National Park

Khajuraho & Varanasi

From: £659 per person

From £959 per person

Situated in the Valley of Ramaganga River and fringed by the Himalayan foothills in the north, Corbett is considered one of India’s finest wildlife sanctuaries and was named after the great British hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett. The park is located in Uttranchal and encompasses varied terrain, a remarkable variety of wildlife, notably tigers, elephants, chausingha (four-horned antelope) and an astonishing 600 species of birds.

2nts Khajuraho • 2nts Varanasi

Day 1: Delhi to Corbett. N.P. Drive from Delhi early morning for Corbett National Park for a 3 night stay.

Day 2: Corbett National Park. Early morning elephant ride through the open Chaurs or grasslands and dense forests of Jim Corbett park.

An elephant safari is the best option for wildlife viewing in the Corbett National Park. Return back to the resort. During the evening take an exciting Jeep safari through the unforgettable and breathtaking Khinanauli range to catch some spectacular wildlife sightings.

Day 3: Corbett National Park. A safari through the park accompanied by a naturalist guide.

Day 4: Corbett to Delhi. Early morning jeep safari, later drive to Delhi.

Day 1: Delhi to Khajuraho, by air.

Transfer to the airport for an onward flight to Khajuraho. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a 2 night stay. Visit the eastern and western group of temples that includes the magnificent Kandariya Mahadev, Laksman and the Vishwanath Temples. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 2: Khajuraho. Morning visit to the southern group of temples.

The Chaturbhuj temple has a superb four armed image of Shiva in the inner sanctum. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 3: Khajuraho to Varanasi, by air. Transfer to the airport for a flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a 2 night stay. Explore the city of colourful bazaars, exquisite and bright silks, festivals, temples, mosques and palaces. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 4: Varanasi. Early morning boat-ride on River Ganges, see people bathing and worshipping at the ghats. Visit Sarnath where Buddha delivered his first sermon and also attained nirvana. Afternoon sightseeing tour of the city visiting the Bharat Mata and Durga Temple, Tulsi Manas Mandir and the Mosque of Mughal Emperor Aurangazeb. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 5: Varanasi to Delhi, by air. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi.

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The magnificent group of temples at Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh were built between 950 and 1050 AD. Over 800 sculptures cover the temple including a number of erotic scenes for which the Khajuraho temples are famous. Varanasi is situated on the banks of the sacred river Ganga and is one of the holiest cities for Hindus.

Kanha National Park

From: £1109 per person The setting for Rudyard Kipling’s famous ‘Jungle Book’, Kanha National Park is an important Project Tiger reserve. It is one of the best places to spot these elusive creatures. The rich wildlife found within this park includes deer, leopard, hyena, sloth bear, pythons and nearly 300 species of birds.

Kerala Backwaters

Day 1: Fly from Delhi to Nagpur. On arrival you will travel to Kanha National Park for a 4 night stay at your hotel.

Day 2: - 4: Kanha. Early morning or afternoon safaris by open fourwheel drive vehicle to see and photograph wildlife. Visit the local market. Spend the evenings sitting around the campfire listening to the noises of the jungle Day 5: Kanha to Nagpur by car & Nagpur to Delhi by air. Drive to Nagpur for your onward flight to Delhi.

Note: Visiting season: November-May is favourable; the best period is February-April. Avoid bright colours for jungle trips. Take along warm clothes (Nov-Mar for evenings). Suggested activities can be wholly or partially suspended due to circumstances beyond control and Travelpack cannot be held responsible.

Bhubaneshwar & Puri

From: £1069 per person 1nt Kochi • 2nts Periyar • 2nt Kumarakom • 1nt Houseboat Discover ‘God’s own Country’ as you explore picturesque backwaters, encounter wildlife at Periyar, visit the harbour city of Kochi and enjoy a houseboat experience which is combined with friendly locals and delicious cuisine makes this an ideal extension option.

Day 1: Delhi to Kochi, by air. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to the hotel. Afternoon depart on a guided tour of Kochi.

Enjoy a Kathakali dance performance this evening. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 2: Kochi to Periyar. Drive from Kochi to Periyar for a 2 night stay. Afternoon visit to the Periyar National Park which is home to the elusive tiger, the majestic elephant and the giant Indian Bison.

Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 3: Periyar. Soft trek the forest in the morning and visit the tea and spice plantations in the afternoon. Overnight stay at hotel Day 4: - 5: Periyar to Kumarakom. Drive from Periyar to Kumarakom located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake for a 2 night stay. Take an optional trip to Kumarakom Bird sanctuary or a boat cruise along the backwaters. Overnight stay at hotel Day 6: Houseboat. Transfer to the jetty to board a traditional Kettuvallam - the typical houseboat. The boats usually carry a crew of 3 and all meals are prepared onboard.

Day 7: Depart Kochi. Disembark and transfer to Kochi Airport for your onward travel.

From: £1459 per person 2nts Bhubaneshwar • 3 nts Puri Day 1: Transfer to Delhi Airport for your flight to Bhubaneshwar - the capital city of Orissa state and popularly known as the temple city.

Bhubaneshwar is a planned city located in the south-eastern part of the state. Upon arrival transfer to your Hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 2: Bhubaneshwar. Day sightseeing of Bhubaneshwar visiting the Rajarani temple (10th century), the Parasurameswar temple (7th century), the Mukteswar & Sidheswar temple (9th, 10th century) and the Lingaraj temple (12th century). Also visit the Khandagiri and Udaygiri caves. Overnight stay.

Day 3: Bhubaneshwar/Konark/Puri by surface. Morning drive to Puri - the abode of Sri Jagannath or the Lord of the Universe is famous all over the world. Enroute visit the Sun Temple at Konark that was built

by Narasimhadeva-I. Shaped like a chariot driven by seven horses on 12 pairs of wheels. Upon arrival in Puri check in at your hotel.

Overnight stay.

Day 4: Puri. Morning sightseeing of Puri visiting the famous Jagannath Temple and Gundicha Ghar. Rest of the day at leisure for independent activities. Overnight stay Day 5: Puri. Day at leisure for independent activities. Overnight stay.

Day 6: Travel from Puri to Bhubaneshwar for your flight to Delhi.

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Coconut Tour of Kerala Price From: Standard Accommodation: ÂŁ1509

5-6. Periyar

3-4. Kochi (Cochin)

1-2. Paravur

This popular tour combines the

Featured Hotels City

Standard

Deluxe

Paravur

Aquaserene Hotel

Aquaserene Hotel

Cochin

Dream Hotel

Brunton Boatyard Hotel or Casino Hotel

Periyar

Cardamom County Hotel Spice Village Hotel

Kumarakom

Backwater Ripples Hotel

Backwater

Houseboat Houseboat

Marari

Abad Turtle Hotel

Coconut Lagoon Hotel

Marari Beach Hotel

Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation. Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

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best of the beautiful State of Kerala, with its history, culture, tranquil backwaters, verdant hill country, lush plantations, beaches

and

wildlife.

The

tour highlights Kerala’s most popular tourist circuit including a houseboat experience.

What’s Included: • Accommodation on bed and breakfast basis except on the Houseboat which is on a full board basis • Meet & assist at airports & hotels by our local representative • All transfers, sightseeing & excursions as mentioned in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Entrance fees to monuments • Services of local English speaking guide during city tours • Kathakali dance show in Cochin • Boat ride at Lake Periyar

Day 1: Thiruvananthapuram to Paravur. Upon arrival at Thiruvananthapuram airport you will be met and transferred to Aquaserene for a 2 night stay.

7-8. Kumarakom

9. Houseboat

Day 2: Paravur. Day at leisure to relax and enjoy the various facilities at Aquaserene, a resort surrounded by the backwaters on three sides offering a unique pool within a small lagoon, Ayurvedic centre and accommodation in cottages. The resort offers a very serene and tranquil atmosphere.

Day 3: Paravur to Kochi (Cochin). Drive to Kochi for a 2 night stay.

Afternoon sightseeing tour of Kochi, visit the ancient Synagogue, Mattancherry Palace and St. Francis Church. Enjoy a cultural show showcasing the state’s traditional art this evening.

Day 4: Kochi. The morning is at leisure to relax by the pool. In the afternoon enjoy a relaxing harbour cruise.

Day 5: Kochi to Periyar (Thekkady). Drive to Periyar via Plantation House at Palai. The scenic drive takes you through green hills with forests and plantations of tea, spices & rubber, amidst streams and waterfalls. Check in at your hotel. In the afternoon take a boat ride on the lake in the Periyar National Park, a ‘Project Tiger’ reserve.

10-13. Mararikulam

Day 6: Periyar (Thekkady). In the morning soft trek in the forest full of rare species of birds and mammals including Malabar squirrel, barking deer, mouse deer, Nilgiri langur and the highly endangered Lion-tailed macaque. In the afternoon visit plantations of tea, cardamom and pepper. Enjoy a Kerala cooking demonstration where renowned chef ’s recipes highlighting Kerala cuisine have made this show a popular evening activity.

Day 7: Periyar to Kumarakom. You’ll leave just after breakfast, driving back down to the coast and the melodically named town of Kumarakom on the banks of lake Vembanad. After checking-in to your hotel, this evening take a sunset cruise on the lake in a converted rice boat to flute ambiance music.

Day 8: Kumarakom. Enjoy the morning at leisure by the pool. Choose from the various options on offer such as Ayurvedic massage, yoga and meditation, country boat expeditions, fishing, swimming or a cruise to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. In the afternoon pay a visit to a local farm.

14-15. Kochi

Day 9: Kumarakom to Houseboat. The Kerala backwaters consist of a complex network of lagoons, lakes, and canals and are best experienced while slowly punting down the labyrinth of canals in a traditional thatch-roofed houseboat, known as ‘Kettuvallam’.

Embark on your houseboat, a renovated cargo boat with either one or two bedrooms, kitchenette and all modern conveniences. A three member crew will cater to your comforts and meals. See life on the banks, lush green rice fields and coconut groves with an occasional temple or church as you cruise through the canals, an experience you will savour for a lifetime.

Day 10: Houseboat to Mararikulam. Disembark at the boat jetty and transfer to another boat that takes you back across Lake Vembanad to Puthenangadi. Drive to Marari Beach situated halfway between Cochin and Alleppey. Spend 4 nights at your beach hotel.

Day 11: - 13: Mararikulam. All days at leisure, participate in yoga sessions, meditation, Ayurvedic massages or any other scheduled daily activities at the resort. Alternatively just relax by the pool or on the beach.

Day 14: Mararikulam to Kochi. After lunch, drive to Kochi for an overnight stay and any last minute shopping.

Day 15: Depart Kochi. Transfer to Kochi airport to board your onward flight.

19

Rajasthan Country of Maharajas

2. Nawalgarh

From: £1945 per person

Rajasthan the land of Maharajas is about the story of warriors, their chivalry, romance, glory and tragedy in fairy tale proportions.

The people are happy, full of life and dressed in their traditional colourful attire. Highlights of this tour include visits to Shekhawati, a large open air art gallery, famous for its painted mansions and frescoes; Jaisalmer, the desert city where you can enjoy a camel ride on the sand dunes and the forts of Junagarh and Mehrangarh.

What’s Included: • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis throughout the tour • Meet & assist at airports & hotels by our local representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as mentioned in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Entrance fees • city tour • Cycle Rickshaw ride at Old Delhi • Camel ride at Sam Dunes, Jaisalmer • Boat ride at Lake Pichola, Udaipur • Elephant / Jeep Joy ride at Amber Fort, Jaipur

City

Hotel Featured

Delhi

Metropolitan Hotel

Nawalgarh

Koolwal Kothi Hotel

Bikaner (Gajner)

Gajner Palace

Jaisalmer

Fort Rajwada

Jodhpur

Indana Palace

Udaipur

Lalit Laxmi Vilas

Deogarh

Deogarh Mahal

Pushkar

Pushkar Palace

Jaipur

Country Inn & Suites

Agra

Radisson Hotel

Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation. Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

20

Take the vibrant and cultural gems of Jaipur, Udaipur, Agra and Delhi and you have a truly exciting holiday in the making staying at exotic palaces and Royal mansions teeming with heritage and hospitality of the region.

Day 1: Arrive Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi you will be met and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 2: Delhi to Nawalgarh. Morning sightseeing tour of Lutyen’s New Delhi. Afternoon, drive to the Koolwal Kothi Hotel, a beautiful heritage property for an overnight stay.

Day 3: Nawalgarh to Bikaner. This morning enjoy a visit to Nawalgarh’s frescos, a fort with a colourful bazaar and numerous havelis (private mansions). En route to Bikaner visit the exquisite Goenka Haveli. Arrive at Bikaner, one of the three great ‘Desert Kingdoms of Rajasthan’.

Day 4: Bikaner to Jaisalmer. Visit the 16th century Junagarh Fort, Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum and Camel Breeding Farm. Drive to Jaisalmer for a 2 night stay.

Day 5: Jaisalmer. Visit the Jaisalmer Haveli, Jaisalmer Fort, Jain Temples, Laxminath Temple, Havelis and Gadisar Lake. In the afternoon depart on a sand dune excursion to Sam to view the sunset over sand dunes and enjoy a camel ride on the shifting sand dunes.

Day 6: Jaisalmer to Jodhpur. Morning drive to the fortress city of Jodhpur, visit the majestic Mehrangarh Fort rising sheer out of a 125metre high rock, perhaps the most majestic of Rajasthan fort.

Overnight at Jodhpur.

Day 7: Jodhpur to Udaipur. This morning drive to the romantic city of Udaipur. En route visit the tranquil pilgrimage town of Ranakpur, renowned for some marvelously carved Jain temples. Stay 2 nights in Udaipur.

Day 8: Udaipur. Morning sightseeing around Udaipur. A kaleidoscope of fairytale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow lanes.

Udaipur is the most romantic city of Rajasthan and an inspiration for poets, painters and writers .

Day 9: Udaipur to Deogarh. Drive to Deogarh and arrive at Deogarh Mahal, a charming palace of 17th century. Your afternoon is free to explore the colourful village around the palace.

Day 10: Deogarh to Pushkar. Drive to Pushkar situated around the holy lake with mythological significance. During the afternoon visit the Ghats and watch the pilgrims taking their ritual dip in the lake.

Day 11: Pushkar to Jaipur. Drive to Jaipur for a 2 night stay. The afternoon at leisure to explore Jaipur’s colourful bazaars. Shop for Rajasthani crafts, handlooms and jewellery.

Day 12: Jaipur. Morning excursion to the Amber Fort. Ride on a colourfully painted elephant like a Maharaja to reach the hilltop fort.

During the afternoon, visit the City Palace, Jantar Mantar and Hawa Mahal.

Day 13: Jaipur to Agra. Drive to Agra, en route visit the imperial ruins of Fatehpur Sikri. Overnight in Agra, the seat of imperial Mughal court during the 16th and 17th century.

Day 14: Agra to Delhi. This morning visit the beautiful monument of love - Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. During the afternoon drive to Delhi.

Overnight Delhi.

Day 15: Depart Delhi. Transfer to the airport to board your onward flight.

3. Bikaner

4-5. Jaisalmer

6. Jodhpur

7-8. Udaipur

9. Deogarh

10. Pushkar

11-12. Jaipur

13. Agra

14-15. Delhi

21

Colours of Gujarat

From: £1909 per person

What’s Included: • Domestic flights in economy class between Mumbai and Ahmedabad • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis throughout the tour except at Sasangir where it will be on full board basis • Meet & assist at airports & hotels by our representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Entrance fees to monuments • Services of local English speaking guides during city tours • 2 Jungle Safari at Wildlife Sanctuary

City

Hotel Featured

Mumbai

Fariyas Hotel

Ahmedabad

Four Point Sheraton

Jamnagar

Furtune Palace

Sasangir

Lion Safari Camp

Diu

Radhika Beach Resort

Bhavnagar

Nilambagh Palace

Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation. Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

Gujarat – the Jewel of the West – offers visitors the chance to experience vibrant cities, fascinating and distinctive architecture, and a wide variety of scenery ranging from the vast salt marsh and desert in the northwest, to the rich treasures of the Jai Hindu temples as well as some superb beaches.

1. Mumbai

22

2-3. Ahmedabad

4-5. Jamnagar

6-7. Sassangir

Day 1: Arrive in Mumbai. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel for overnight stay.

Day 2: Mumbai to Ahmedabad, by air. Morning Arrival At Ahmedabad Airport / Railway Station, Check In To The Hotel, Leisure & O/N Stay At Ahmedabad.

Day 3: Ahmedabad. City Tour Of Ahmedabad. Visit Gandhi Ashram, Akshardham Temple ( Monday Close ), Hate Singh Jain Temple & Iskon Temple.

O/N Stay At Ahmedabad.

Day 4: Ahmedabad To Gondal ( Visit Naulakha Palace & Vintage Car Collection ) & Then Drives To Jamnagar. O/N Stay At Jamnagar.

Day 5: Jamnagar Sightseeing. Visit Famous Baal Hanuman Temple & Lakhota Lake & Then Drives To Dwarka. O/ Nstay At Dwarka.

Day 6: Dwarka Sightseeing. Visit Dwarkadhish Temple, Gopi Talav, Nageshwar Temple, Rukmanitemple & Bet Dwraka. & O/N Stay At Dwarka.

Day 7: Dwarka – Junagadh. Visit Ashoka Rock, Upercot Fort, Mahabat Maqbara & Darbar Hall Museum. O/N Stay At Junagadh.

Day 8: SJunagadh To Gir. Visit Devaliya Safari Park [ Wednesday Close ] & Crocodile Breeding Farm.

O/N Stay At Gir. Day 9: Gir Sightseeing. Visit Gir National Park & Gir Jungle Safari. O/N Stay At Gir.

8-9. Diu

Day 10: Gir To Somnath. Visit Bhalka Tirth, Triveni Ghat, Somnath Temple & Evening Light And Sound Show. O/N Stay At Somnath.

Day 11: Somnath To Diu. Visit Diu Fort, Jallnadhar Shrine, Nagoa Beach, Diu Museum, Gangeshwar Temple & St. Paul’s Church. O/N Stay At Diu. Day 12: Diu – Palitana ( Vist Famous Palitana Jain Temple – 3750 Steps ) Later Drives to Bhavnagar.

Viist Gandhi Amriti & Barton Museum. O/N Stay At Bhavnagar.

Day 12: Bhavnagar To Ahmedabad Drop In The Evening.

Full day Modhera excursion: Modhera Sun Temple is also available on request. Visit the sun temple at Modhera built in 1026. The carvings both inside and outside are extraordinarily detailed, depicting a pantheon of Hindu deities.

10. Bhavnagar

11. Ahmedabad

12. Mumbai

23

Scenic Himachal Pradesh and Sacred Amritsar

Day 1: Arrive in Delhi. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Day 2: Delhi. Full day sightseeing tour of Delhi. Explore the Qutab Complex which houses India’s biggest single tower, the Qutab Minar, and the 4th century rust free Iron Pillar; the Mughal citadel named Lal Qila (Red Fort); and Lutyens’ Delhi. Also, visit the grand Jama Masjid and Humayan’s Tomb – a monument commissoned by Bega Begum in memory of her beloved husband.

Day 3: Delhi to Parwanoo. Drive to Parwanoo for an overnight stay. En route visit the beautifully laid out Mughal Gardens at Pinjore.

From: £1899 per person

This tour takes you to the beautiful hill state of Himachal Pradesh where you will experience gracious living in a palace and country manor.

Enjoy the ambience of a heritage village at Pragpur, the tea gardens of Palampur and Dharamshala, visit the home of the Dalai Lama and the exiled Tibetan Government before completing your tour

Day 4: Parwanoo to Shimla via Kalka, by train. Early morning transfer to Kalka railway station to connect on the Shivalik Express, the narrow gauge train which takes you through 102 tunnels, over many arched bridges and through several picturesque stations on its 96 km journey. Upon arrival at Shimla (alt.

2213m) transfer to your hotel for a three night stay. Rest of the day at leisure.

Day 5-6: Shimla. The scenery and ambience of this area attracted the British in such measure that it seemed justifiable to shift the complete administration of an Empire from Calcutta to Shimla. This morning enjoy a sightseeing tour, visiting the famous Mall, the Vice Regal Lodge, and the Himachal State museum.

Day 7: Shimla to Pragpur. Drive to Pragpur and arrive at the Judges Court – a heritage Manor House offering magnificent views of the snow-capped mountain peaks. Rest of the day at leisure Day 8: Pragpur. Visit the twin heritage villages of Garli and Pragpur.

It offers an ideal location for village tourism with many heritage structures, some as old as 250 years.

in the sacred city of Amritsar with its spectacular Golden Temple.

What’s Included: • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis throughout the tour • Meet and assist at airports / railway stations & hotels by our representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Entrance fees to monuments • Services of local English speaking guides during city tours • Train fare (shared cabin) for the sector Amritsar / Delhi by airconditioned chair car and Kalka / Shimla by non AC class

1-2. Delhi

Optional Excursion: From: £165.00 per person Full day excursion to Agra including entrance to monuments and services of a local English speaking guide.

3-4. Parwanoo

5-6. Shimla

7-8. Pragpur

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Day 9: Pragpur to Palampur. Drive to Palampur, en route visiting the Kangra Fort which is strategically positioned overlooking the Ban Ganga and Manjhi Rivers. Palampur is located at the foot of the Dhauladhar Mountains at an altitude of 3400 feet and surrounded by the tea gardens of Kangra Valley.

Day 10: Palampur. This morning’s sightseeing includes visits to the Bundla Chasm, Shobha Singh Art Gallery at Andretta Village, Tashijong Monastery, and the beautifully sculpted Baijnath Temple. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 11: Palampur to Dharamshala. Drive to Dharamshala. During the afternoon visit McLeod Ganj - upper Dharamsala housing the exiled government of Tibet headed by its spiritual leader - H.H. The Dalai Lama.

Day 12: Dharamsala to Amritsar. Drive to Amritsar. Upon arrival check in at your hotel. Late evening visit the Golden Temple - the spiritual & temporal place of Sikh religion. Overnight stay.

Day 13: Amritsar to Delhi by train. Morning sightseeing tour of Amritsar including the Golden Temple and the Jallianwala Bagh. Late afternoon transfer to Amritsar Railway station to board the Shatabdi Express train for Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi transfer to hotel. Overnight stay.

Day 14: Delhi. Day at leisure. (Optional same day return excursion to Agra is possible at an extra cost). Overnight stay.

Day 15: Delhi. Transfer to the airport to board flight for onward journey.

City Hotel Featured Mumbai Fariyas Hotel Delhi

Metropolitan Hotel

Parwanoo

Timber Trail Resort

Shimla

Clarkes Hotel

Pragpur

Judges Court

Palampur

Taragarh Palace

Dharamsala

Grace Cottage

Amritsar

Ramada Hotel

Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation. Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

13-15. Delhi

12. Amritsar

11. Dharamshala 9-10. Palampur

25

In the Footsteps of the Yeti

1. Delhi

From: £2399 per person

Legends and folklore abound in the eastern Himalayas about the occasional appearance of the abominable snowman - the Yeti.

What’s Included: • Domestic flight in economy class between Delhi and Bagdogra • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis throughout the tour except at Darjeeling, Pelling, Gangtok & Kalimpong where it will be on a full board basis • Meet and assist at airports and hotels by our representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Entrance fees • Services of local English speaking guide as per the itinerary during city tour • Cycle Rickshaw ride in Old Delhi City

Hotel Featured

Delhi

Metropolitan Hotel

Siliguri

Royal Sarovar Premiere

Darjeeling

Elgin Hotel

Pelling

Elgin Mt. Pandim

Gangtok

Elgin Norkhill

Kalimpong

Silver Oaks Hotel

Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation. Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

In the shadow of Mount Kanchenjunga, the tea estates and hill stations of Darjeeling are the gateways to the former kingdom of Sikkim.

Witnessing sunrise from Tiger Hill as the rays strike the Himalayas and Kanchenjunga is a memorable experience. The tour to Darjeeling cannot be completed without sampling the Champagne of Tea – the Darjeeling tea, grown in high altitude estates surrounding the town. Visit ancient and colourful monasteries in and around Gangtok – the Capital of Sikkim.

Day 9: Full day sightseeing in Gangtok visiting Do Drul Chorten (Stupa), Namgyal Institute of Tibetology (closed on Sundays), Cottage Industry (closed on Sundays) and Enchey Monastery.

Day 10 - 11: After breakfast excursion to Rumtek monastery.

Day 12: Drive from Gangtok to Kalimpong 83 kms approx. 3 hrs.

Afternoon visit Zang Dog Palri Fo Brang Monastery, Tharpa Choling Monastery, Thongsa Gumpa and flower nurseries.

Day 13: Drive from Kalimpong to Bagdogra airport (80 kms 3 hours approx.) & fly to Delhi. Upon arrival transfer to your hotel in Delhi for a 2 Nights stay Day 14: Delhi. Full day sightseeing tour of Delhi. Explore the Qutab Complex which houses India’s biggest single tower, the Qutab Minar and the 4th century rust free Iron Pillar, before continuing to the Mughal citadel of Lal Qila (Red Fort) and Lutyens’ Delhi. Also, visit the grand Jama Masjid and Humayan’s Tomb – a monument commissoned by Bega Begum in memory of her beloved husband.

Day 15: Depart Delhi. Transfer to the airport to board your onward flight.

Day 1: Arrive in Delhi. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Day 2: Arrive Bagdogra and drive to Siliguri 15 kms 45 min approx.

Day 3: Siliguri to Darjeeling via Mirik.

Day 4: Early morning visit Tiger Hill and Ghoom Monastery. After breakfast visit nearest Tea estate, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute(closed on Thursday), Zoological Park(closed on Thursday) and Tibetan Refugee Centre(closed on Sunday).

Day 5: After breakfast enjoy Joy Ride on World Heritage Toy Train, Darjeeling to Ghoom and back. Afternoon walk to Observatory Hill and Bhutia Basti.

13-15. Delhi Day 6: Drive from Darjeeling to Pelling 123 kms 6 hours approx.

Afternoon visit Shangacholing monastery.

Day 7: After breakfast excursion to Khechipalri Lake.

Day 8: Drive from Pelling to Gangtok 127 kms 5 hours approx.

26

2. Siliguri

3-5. Darjeeling

6-7. Pelling/Pemayangste

8-11. Gangtok

12. Kalimpong

27

Ladakh an endless discovery From: £1638 per person

2-3. Leh

1. Delhi

What’s Included: • Domestic flight in economy class between Delhi and Leh • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis in Delhi and a half board basis at Leh & Uleytokpo • Meet and assist at airports and hotels by our representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as mentioned in the itinerary by non-air-conditioned car (Delhi transfer will be by air-conditioned car) • Visit to Monasteries, Pangong Lake & Khardongla

City Hotel Featured

28

Delhi

Piccadily Hotel

Leh

Grand Himalaya Hotel

Uleytokpo

Uley Ethnic Deluxe Cottage

Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation. Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

The Indus Valley is the region’s historic heartland and it is dotted with all the major sites connected with the former kingdom’s dynastic history, starting with Leh, the capital, since the building of its nine-storey Leh palace in the early 17th century. A few kilometres up the Indus is Shey Palace, the most ancient capital, with its palace and temples. Just across the river from Leh lies Stok, where the royal family now lives, housing a

4. Uletokpo

museum of artefacts associated with the dynasty.

The central area of Ladakh has the greatest concentration of major Buddhist monasteries or gompas. Visit the most important ones; Thiksey, Hemis, Lamayuru, Likir and Alchi. Apart from the monasteries or gompas, as they are called in Ladakh, the attraction of this circuit is the Pangong lake, situated at an altitude of 14,000 5-7. Leh

8-9. Delhi

Day 1: Arrive Delhi. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Day 2: Delhi to Leh by flight. Transfer to Delhi airport for your flight to Leh. Upon arrival you will be met by our representative at the airport and escorted to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for acclimatization (3500 Mtrs above sea level). In the evening enjoy a short walk around Leh bazaar.

Day 3: Leh. Day excursion to the local monasteries. An early start will allow you to enjoy the praying ceremony at Thiksey monastery.

Continue to Hemis monastery which is one of the most famous monasteries of the Ladakh region. On the way back visit to Shey Palace.

Day 4: Leh to Uletokpo via Alchi. Depart for Uletokpo where you will enjoy a camping experience surrounded by stunning scenery . En route you will visit the Spituk monastery which is just 5 kms from Leh town. Continue on to Alchi monastery which is the only monastery in Ladakh on flat ground. Arrive Uletokpo in time for lunch. This evening enjoy a stroll along the banks of the river or just take in the serene evening sights and sounds. Overnight at Camp.

Day 5: Uletokpo to Leh via Lamayuru. Leave Uletokpo and continue on to Lamayuru via Khaltsi. Visit the Lamayuru monastery which is

ft. It is the largest brackish water lake in Asia

one of the oldest and perhaps most spectacular monasteries in the area. In the late afternoon drive back to Leh with a stop at magnetic hill.

Day 6: Leh – Excursion to Khardongla. After breakfast you will set off for a full day excursion to Khardongla pass which is one of the highest motorable passes in the world at 5600 metres. At the top enjoy the spectacular views of snow capped mountain before returning to your hotel.

Day 7: Leh – Excursion to Pangong. An early start today as you travel through the Changla pass (5486 metres) en route to Pangong Lake.

While ascending Changla pass you will enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the villages below the pass as well as spectacular mountain scenery. After crossing the pass there will be a break for a picnic lunch at Tsoltak, a summer pastureland for yaks. Arrive Durbuk and from there a short drive takes you to the western shore of the lake.

With a beautiful mountain backdrop this famous blue brackish lake stretches over the Indo-China border. In the late afternoon drive back to Leh. Day 8: Leh to Delhi by flight. Transfer from your hotel to Leh airport for your flight to Delhi and on arrival you will be transferred to your hotel Day 9: Depart Delhi. Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.

29

In the footsteps of Buddha From: ÂŁ1822 per person

India is the birth place of Buddhism and is home to most of the high significance Holy sites of Buddhism. This is where Lord Buddha was born, attained Enlightenment, preached his first Sermon and reach Nirvana. This tour includes visits to Lumbini* (birth place), Bodh Gaya (where he attained enlightenment), Sarnath (where he preached his first sermon) and Kushinagar where he achieved Mahanirvana. Other venerous locations featured on this tour include Rajgir, Nalanda and Sravasti. *now part of Nepal 6. Varanasi

3-5. Bodh Gaya

2. Patna

1. Delhi

12-13. Delhi

10-11. Lucknow 9. Balrampur

30

Day 1: Arrive Delhi. - Upon arrival at Delhi airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 2: Delhi to Patna by flight - Transfer to Delhi airport for your flight to Patna. Upon arrival at Patna airport you will be transferred to your hotel where the rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 3: Patna to Bodh Gaya - This morning you will drive to Bodh Gaya with stops en route at Nalanda, a great centre of Buddhist learning, and Rajgir where Lord Buddha often visited to meditate and preach.

Upon arrival in Bodhgaya, check in at your hotel Day 4: Bodh Gaya - Day at leisure to explore Bodh Gaya the holy city where the Buddha attained enlightenment. There are plenty of temples and sites to visit.

Day 5: Bodh Gaya to Varanasi - After breakfast you will depart for Varanasi. After checking into your hotel there is plenty of time to explore the colourful bazaars selling exquisite and bright silks, as well as temples, Mosques and Palaces.

Day 6: : Varanasi - Enjoy an early morning boat-ride on the River Ganges, and see people bathing and worshipping at the ghats. Later you will enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city visiting the Bharat Mata and Durga Temple, Tulsi Manas Mandir and the Mosque of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. After lunch continue on a visit to Sarnath where Buddha delivered his first sermon and also attained nirvana.

What’s Included: • Domestic flight in economy class for the sector Delhi to Patna • Accommodation on bed and breakfast basis throughout the tour • Meet and assist at airports, railway station and hotels by our representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursion as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Entrance fees • Services of local English speaking guide as per the itinerary during city tours Boat ride on the River Ganges • Train fare (shared cabin) for the sector Lucknow / Delhi (air-conditioned chair car)

7. Kushinagar

City

Hotel Featured

Delhi

Metropolitan Hotel

Patna

Chanakya Patna Hotel

Bodhgaya

Lotus Nikko

Varanasi

Radisson Hotel

Kushinagar

Lotus Nikko

Lumbini

Indo Hokke

Sravasti

Lotus Nikko

Lucknow La Place Sarovar Portico Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation. Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

8. Lumbini

Day 7: : Varansi to Kushinagar - After breakfast you will drive to Kushinagar. After checking into your hotel you will visit the Mahaparinirvan Temple, where Buddha took his last breath, and Nirvana Stupa – a huge brickwork stupa. A copper vessel was unearthed at this site. It bore an inscription in ancient Brahmi, which stated that Lord Buddha’s remains had been deposited here.

Day 8: : Kushinagar to Lumbini* - Enjoy a morning drive to Lumbini, visiting Gorakhpur Museum, which has an excellent collection of paintings and relics of Lord Buddha. Gorakhnath Temple is one of the most prominent and magnificent temples. Upon arrival in Lumbini you will check in at your hotel Day 9: : Lumbini to Sravasti - This morning explore the Ashoka Pillar, a commemorative monument built

by King Ashoka in Lumbini, and Mayadevi Temple – an old Buddhist monastery. After lunch travel on to Balrampur visiting Sravasti, an ancient deserted town surrounded by ruins, visit the Jetavana Monastery, before checking in to your accommodation.

Day 10: Sravasti to Lucknow - Enjoy a morning sightseeing tour of Balrampur before continuing on to Lucknow for an overnight stay.

Day 11: Lucknow - This morning’s tour includes visits to Bara Imambara (Bara means big, and an Imambara is a shrine built by Shia Muslims & Chattar Manzil (Umbrella Palace), Jama Masjid, the Rumi Darwaza and the Clock Tower.

Day 12: Lucknow to Delhi by train (Shatabdi express) Morning at leisure before transferring to Lucknow railway station in time to board the train for Delhi. Local snacks, tea or coffee and dinner will be served on board.

Day 13: Delhi. - Transfer to the airport to board flight for onward journey. * Please obtain double entry visa to India and Single entry to Nepal

31

Coast to Coast of Southern India -

Coromandel to Malabar

1. Chennai

From: £1818 per person

This tour combines the delights of Tamil Nadu with the highlights of Kerala. Tamil Nadu once known as the Coromandel Coast boasts some of the most remarkable temple architecture in India, and temple towns and historic sites are dotted across the plains.

What’s Included: • Accommodation on bed and breakfast basis except on the Houseboat where it is on a full board basis • Meet and assist at airports and hotels by our representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursion as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Entrance fees • Services of local English speaking guide as per the itinerary during city tours • Boat ride at Lake Periyar • Kathakali dance show in Cochin

The former French territory of Pondicherry has its own distinctive colonial architecture. Kerala on the other hand has a unique charm with its attractive palm-lined beaches, relaxing backwaters, colourful Kathakali dancers, lush plantation hills and tropical wildlife.

Day 1: Chennai. On arrival at Chennai you will be met and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 2: Chennai to Covelong via Kanchipuram. Drive to Kanchipuram, one of Hinduism’s seven most sacred cities. The ‘Golden City’ of a thousand temples dates back from the Cholas era. Visit its temples and shops – renowned for silk and cotton fabrics. Travel onwards to Covelong Beach and spend the afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Covelong.

Day 3: Covelong (Mahabalipuram). This morning enjoy an excursion to Mahabalipuram. The coastal temple town boasts fourteen cave temples and nine monolithic rathas (chariot shaped shrines), three stone temples and four-sculptured rock panels. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Covelong.

Day 4: Covelong to Thanjavur via Pondicherry. Drive to Thanjavur (Tanjore) en route visiting the Sri Aurobindo Ashram at Pondicherry - the former capital of French India. Also visit Matru Mandir at the experimental ‘universal township’ of Auroville. Arrive at Thanjavur the ancient capital of the Cholas dynasty and home to thousands of artists who developed the art of Tanjore style of paintings and bronze icons. Overnight in Thanjavur.

India. In the evening witness the prayer ceremony at Meenakshi Temple, an outstanding example of the Vijayanagar temple architecture. Overnight in Madurai.

Day 7: Madurai to Thekkady (Lake Periyar). Drive to Thekkady for a 2 night stay. During the afternoon take a two-hour boat ride on the mistshrouded lake, which offers excellent opportunities for spotting wildlife, especially herds of elephants. Overnight in Periyar.

Day 8: Periyar. Spend the day at leisure exploring the plantations surrounding this beautiful spice centre. Overnight in Periyar.

Day 9: Periyar to Kumarakom. An early start driving back down to the coast and the melodically named town of Kumarakom on the banks of Lake Vembanad. On arrival, take a boat transfer to your hotel for a 2 night stay. This evening take a sunset cruise on the lake in a converted rice boat accompanied by the sounds of ambient flute music. Overnight in Kumarakom.

Day 10: Kumarakom. Enjoy a day at leisure in Kumarakom. Relax by the pool or take a short boat ride to the bird sanctuary on the other side of a river entrance. Overnight in Kumarakom.

Day 11: Kumarakom to Houseboat. Transfer to your houseboat for a one night stay on the backwaters – experience the essence of Kerala with its swaying palms and gently flowing serene backwaters. Enjoy close up views of the countryside and quiet lagoons of rural Kerala, preserved through the ages and completely hidden from local roads.

Day 12: Houseboat to Kochi. After arrival at your destination you will disembark and continue on to the harbour town of Kochi (Cochin), renowned as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’. In the evening enjoy a Kathakali dance show – where mask wearing dancers mime out stories to music and sings.

Day 13: Kochi. Your morning sightseeing tour of Kochi includes a visit to the Dutch Palace and Synagogue, with a visit to the renowned Chinese fishing nets. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure or explore the sights of this old trading centre. Overnight in Kochi.

Day 14: Depart Kochi. Transfer to Kochi airport for your onward flight.

14. Kochi

Day 5: Thanjavur to Tiruchirappalli. During the morning visit Thanjavur’s Brihadisvara temple which is a World Heritage site. In the afternoon drive to Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) and visit the temple town of Srirangam and Rock Fort, which stands on a mammoth 84 m high rock. Overnight in Trichy.

Day 6: Tiruchirappalli to Madurai. Your tour continues to Madurai. On arrival enjoy a tour of one of the most sacred pilgrim towns of South

32

12-13. Kochi

2. Kancheepuram

3-4. Covelong

5. Thanjavur

6. Tiruchirappalli

7. Madurai

8. Periyar City

Hotel Featured

Chennai

Radisson Blu Hotel

Mahabalipuram

Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay

Thanjavur

Sangam Hotel

Tiruchirappalli

Sangam Hotel

Madurai

Sangam Hotel

Periyar

Cardamom County Hotel

Kumarakom

Backwater Ripples

Backwater

Houseboat

Cochin

Dream Hotel

9-10. Kumarakom

Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation.

Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

11. Houseboat

33

LEGACY of THE PAST

What’s Included: • Domestic flight in economy class for the sector Udaipur to Mumbai • Accommodation on bed and breakfast basis • Meet and assist at airports, railway station and hotels by our representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursion as mentioned in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Entrance fees • Services of local English speaking guide as per the itinerary during city tour • Cycle Rickshaw ride at Old Delhi • Elephant / Jeep joy ride at Amber Fort, Jaipur • Boat ride at Lake Pichola, Udaipur • Train fare (Shared cabin) for the sector Delhi / Gwalior (air-conditioned chair car)

From: £3999 per person

Experience the grandeur and splendour of some of the authentic palaces which India has to offer. This tour presents a colourful kaleidoscope of romance, culture, music, art, architecture and symbols of a bygone era. Visit Delhi, Shah Jahan’s 17th Century Old

1-2. Delhi

Delhi and the elegant 1930’s avenues of the British Raj; the spectacular fort city of Gwalior; the beautiful Taj Mahal and the mysterious colourful Raiput cities of Jaipur, Jodhpur and 3-4. Gwalior

Udaipur in Rajasthan.

5-6. Agra

7-8. Jaipur

34

Day 1: Upon your arrival in Delhi you will be met and transferred to your hotel, for a 2 night stay.

Day 9: Jaipur to Jodhpur. This morning transfer to the fortress city of Jodhpur and check in at your hotel. Overnight stay.

Day 2: Delhi. Enjoy a full day sightseeing tour of Delhi. Explore the Qutab Complex - Qutab Minar, Iron Pillar, Mughal citadel named Lal Qila (Red Fort) and Lutyens Delhi with its tree lined boulevards leading to the British Viceroy’s Palace (Rashtrapati Bhawan - now the official residence of the President of India), the Secretariat, India Gate and Parliament House. Also, visit the grand Jama Masjid and Humayan’s Tomb.

Day 10: Jodhpur. Morning city sight-seeing tour including the majestic Meharangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada and Clock Tower. The afternoon is at leisure for independent activities. Overnight stay.

Day 3-4: Delhi to Gwalior, by train. Transfer to New Delhi station to board Shatabdi Express to Gwalior. Steeped in the splendour of an eventful past, the ancient city of Gwalior has made a successful transition into a vibrant and bustling modern Indian city. Stay 2 nights at the Usha Kiran Palace.

Day 5: Gwalior to Agra. Transfer to Agra and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Stay 2 nights in Agra, at the Taj View Hotel.

Day 6: Agra. Visit the Taj Mahal in the morning. This afternoon visit Agra Fort and the Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah.

Day 7: Agra to Jaipur,. Transfer to Jaipur, the famed ‘Pink City’. En route visit Fatehpur Sikri - the imperial ruins of the dream capital city of the Great Mughal Emperor - Akbar. Afternoon at leisure. Stay 2 nights in Jaipur.

Day 8: Jaipur. Morning excursion to Amber - capital of the old state of Dhundhar, located on the rugged hills surrounding Jaipur. Ride the elephants up the hill and admire the wealth of Amber’s association with the Mughals. In the afternoon visit the City Palace, Jantar Mantar (the Royal Observatory) and Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds).

City

Hotel Featured

Delhi

Metropolitan Hotel

Gwalior

The Central Park

Agra

Trident Hotel

Jaipur

Trident Hotel

Jodhpur

Indana Palace

Udaipur

Lalit Laxmi Vilas

Mumbai

Sun N Sand Hotel

Day 11: Jodhpur to Udaipur. Transfer to Udaipur (via Ranakpur), a kaleidoscope of fairytale palaces, lakes, temples, and narrow lanes. En route visit Ranakpur temples.

Day 12: Udaipur. This morning enjoy a sight-seeing tour of the city including a visit to the City Palace, the Museum and the Royal Gardens - Saheliyon ki Badi. The afternoon is at leisure.

Day 13: Udaipur to Mumbai, by air. Transfer to the airport and fly to Mumbai for an overnight stay. Rest of the day at leisure to explore the delights of Mumbai.

Day 14: Mumbai. Enjoy a morning sightseeing tour of Mumbai, including a visit to the Dhobi Ghats, the Malabar Hills and the Prince of Wales Museum.

Afternoon at leisure and overnight stay.

Day 15: Depart Mumbai. Transfer to the airport to board your onward flight.

Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation. Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

13-15. Mumbai

11-12. Udaipur

9-10. Jodhpur

35

Glimpses of Taj, Raj & Golden Temple From: £ 1629 per person

3-4. Agra

1-2. Delhi

Leaving Delhi, you will journey to Agra and its impressive fort. The highlight is of course the renowned Taj Mahal – a monument of a man’s love for a woman – but there is plenty more to see on this visually exciting tour. Visit the sacred city of Amritsar with its spectacular Golden Temple, a superb synthesis of Islamic and Hindu styles of architecture, and the beautiful hill state of Himachal Pradesh where you will experience gracious living in a palace and country manor. In 1903, the Kalka-Shimla railway started making the hitherto arduous journey a little simpler and even today the quaint toy train continues its slightly strained chugs up steep hills carrying eager tourists.

City

Hotel Featured

Delhi

Metropolitan Hotel

Agra

Radisson Hotel

Amritsar

Ramada Hotel

Parwanoo

Moksha Himalayan Spa & Resort

Shimla

Radisson Hotel

Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation. Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

36

12. Delhi

What’s Included: • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis throughout the tour • Meet and assist at airports, railway station and hotels by our representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursion as mentioned in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Entrance fees • Services of local English speaking guide as per the itinerary during city tours • Cycle Rickshaw ride at Old Delhi • Train fare (shared cabin) for the sector Delhi to Amritsar & Kalka to Delhi (air-conditioned chair car) and Shimla to Kalka (non AC class)

Day 1: Arrive Delhi. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Day 2: Delhi. - Full day sightseeing tour of Delhi. Explore the Qutab Complex which houses India’s biggest single tower, the Qutab Minar, and the 4th century rust free Iron Pillar; the Mughal citadel named Lal Qila (Red Fort); and Lutyens’ Delhi. Also, visit the grand Jama Masjid and Humayan’s Tomb – a monument commissioned by Bega Begum in memory of her beloved husband.

Day 3: Delhi to Agra - Today you will continue to Agra and enjoy an evening at leisure.

5-6. Amritsar

Day 4: Agra - Visit the Taj Mahal this morning. Nothing can prepare you for the experience of this monument. Built by The Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631 giving birth to their 14th child. It is an acclaimed architectural masterpiece and one of the wonders of the world. 20,000 workers laboured for 22 years to build this sublime garden tomb of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan. The unique mughal style combines elements of Persian, Central Asian, and Islamic architecture. In the afternoon visit Agra Fort and Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, also known as ‘Baby Taj’.

Day 5: Agra to Amritsar via Delhi - This morning you will travel to Delhi railway station to board the train for Amritsar where you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a 2night stay.

7-8. Parwanoo

Day 6: Amritsar - At leisure to explore, the spiritual centre of the Sikh religion - the Golden Temple, one of the most spiritual locations, including the Divine Temple and the Pool of Nectar. The temple kitchen provides an amazing 40,000 free meals a day; a figure that can rise to 100,000 on holidays or special festivals. You will also visit Jallianwala Bagh the site of an infamous massacre that took place in 1919. Visitors to the Golden Temple must remove their shoes, wash their feet and cover their heads with a scarf. Later afternoon you will travel to Wagah border, where India meets Pakistan, and you can observe the ‘beating the retreat’ ceremony.

Day 7: Amritsar to Parwanoo - Today there is a long drive to Parwanoo, which in just a few decades has transformed from a sleepy little village to a pulsating industrial town. Upon arrival in Parwanoo, you will take the spectacular cable car to the top of the mountain where you can check in at your hotel for an overnight stay

9-11. Shimla

Day 8: Parwanoo to Shimla - Transfer from top to the base of the mountain and then drive to Shimla. The scenery and ambiance of this area attracted the British in such measure that it seemed justifiable to shift the complete administration of an Empire from Calcutta to Shimla.

Upon arrival check in for a stay of 3 nights.

Day 9: Shimla. - Morning enjoy a Heritage Walk through the town’s Architectural Heritage Zone that brings you close to various architectural sites of the British era such as the Bantony, Betinks Castle, Railway Board Building, Gorton Castle, Knokcdrin Sanitarium, the Cecil Hotel, Inverarm and the State Museum (closed on Monday). Later enjoy visiting the Jhaku Temple which is located on the town’s highest peak and offers a spectacular vantage point for Shimla’s famous views. The summit is crowned with a temple dedicated to monkey God Hanuman.

Day 10: Shimla. - Today you will enjoy an excursion to Kufri & Chail.

Day 11: Shimla to Kalka by toy train & Kalka to Delhi by Shatabdi Express.

Transfer to Shimla railway station to board the train for a scenic journey on the narrow gauge train which takes you through 102 tunnels, many arched bridges and several picturesque stations on its 96 Km journey to Kalka where you will connect with the Shatabdi express to Delhi. Local snacks, tea or coffee will be served on board.

Upon arrival in Delhi railway station, transfer to your hotel.

Day 12: Delhi. - Transfer to the airport to board flight for onward journey.

37

Coffee, Wildlife & Tea Tour From: £2135 per person

This tour offers a taste of not only two of the world’s most popular drinks, but of a land of stunning beauty and natural wonders. This exciting tour touches on six of the regions most stunning sights. From the highlights

What’s Included: • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis except at Kabini where it is on a full board basis • Meet and assist at airports, railways and hotels by our representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursion as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Entrance fees • Services of local English speaking guide as per the itinerary during city tours • 1 Jungle safari at Kabini National Park in an open vehicle • Toy train joy ride Ooty to Coonoor • Train fare for the sector Coimbatore to Ernakulam (air-conditioned chair car)

of Bangalore to the heritage spots around Chikmagalur, you will capture colourful images of the royal city of Mysore, vibrant cultures, stunning palaces and wildlife at Kabini, as well as feeling the gentle allure of the various plantations and forested hills of Ooty. You will complete your tour in the

City

Hotel Featured

Bangalore

Chancery Pavilion

Chikmangalur

The Serai Hotel

Mysore

Sandesh The Prince

Kabini

The Serai Hotel

Ooty

Gem Park Hotel

Cochin

Dream Hotel

Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation. Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

Historic city of Cochin.

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13. Kochi

1. Bangalore

2-3. Chikmanglur

4-5. Mysore

6-7. Kabini

Day 1: Arrive Bangalore. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Once checked in you will enjoy a short tour of Bangalore visiting The Bull Temple, Vidhan Soudha, Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens and Gavipuram Cave Temple. Overnight in Bangalore.

Day 2: Bangalore - Chikmagalur. Leave Bangalore’s glass citadels behind on ever narrowing roads to hit the hills of Chikmagalur, a forested hilly region set against a mountainous backdrop of the Western Ghats, and now famous for its coffee plantations. Upon arrival at Chikmagalur you will check in at your hotel. After lunch visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Belur and Halebid.

Overnight in Chikmagalur.

Day 3: Chikmagalur – Shravenabelagola - Chikmagalur Enjoy a day trip to Shravanabelagola, a noted place of pilgrimage for Jains. The statue of the Lord Gommateshwara, or Bahubali the world’s largest monolithic statue at 17 metres high, is situated here. Chikmagalur is known as Coffee Country, being the place that coffee was first grown in India. Today you will enjoy a tour of a local coffee plantation. Overnight in Chikmagalur.

Day 4-5: Chikmagalur - Mysore. Today you will travel to Mysore, the cultural capital of Karnataka. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel for a 2 night stay.

Spend some time visiting the Mysore Palace, one of the most visited palaces in the world, formerly the official residence of the Royal Family of Mysore.

Later explore the beautiful Brindavan Gardens, a botanical park, enriched with innumerable fountains decorated with coloured lighting. Overnight in Mysore.

Day 6: Mysore - Kabini. After breakfast travel to Kabini, an extended part of the Western Ghats and Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, home to thousands of large mammals including tiger, leopard and Asia’s largest herd of elephants, crocodiles, reptiles and almost 300 species of birds. Our resort unfurls on the banks of the Kabini reservoir, and offers great views of the mountains as well as interesting rides out by boat. Enjoy a wildlife safari at Nagarhole National Park, followed by pampering at The Serai – its spa, restaurants and bar overlooking the river/ mountains. Overnight in Kabini.

Day 7: Kabini. This morning get up close and personal with nature through a guided nature walk with our trained professional naturalists, and get acquainted with various plants, and spoor of animals. This afternoon enjoy the enchanting wildlife safari once again.

Overnight in Kabini.

Day 8: Kabini - Ooty. Ooty, the erstwhile summer headquarters of the British government - lush green valleys, terraced plantations and a pleasant climate makes Ooty one of South India’s most popular hill stations. Overnight in Ooty.

Day 9: Ooty - Coonoor - Ooty. This morning board the Nilgiri Mountain Railway – toy train to Coonoor, travelling across plantations and forest clad hills with breathtaking views. You will return to Ooty via road to enjoy the sights of this lovely hill station. Overnight in Ooty.

Day 10-11: Ooty - Coimbatore - Cochin. Drive to Coimbatore in time to board your train to Cochin. On arrival at Ernakulam railway station, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a 2nts stay. Overnight in Cochin.

Day 12: Cochin. This morning enjoy a city tour visiting the Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church, and elegant Chinese fishing nets that line the tip of Fort Cochin. In the evening you will attend a Kathakali dance show - a popular art form of Kerala with elaborate costumes, ornaments and facial make-up. Overnight in Cochin.

Day 13: Depart Cochin. Tour ends.

Transfer to Kochi Airport for your onward flight.

8-9. Ooty

City

Hotel Featured

Marari

Abad Turtle

Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation.

Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

10-12. Cochin

What’s Included: (3 Nights Extension at Marari) • Accommodation on bed and breakfast basis • Meet and assist at airports & hotels by our representative • Transfers from Cochin airport by air-conditioned car

Marari Extension - From: £189 per person Continue as follows on Day 13: of above tour Day 13: Cochin - Marari. Morning drive to Mararikulam and check in at hotel for a 3 nights stay Day 14-16: Mararikulam (3 Nights). All days at leisure for independent activities and stay at hotel.

Day 17: Mararikulam - Cochin. Depart Cochin. Transfer to Kochi Airport for your onward flight.

39

A Taste of Northern India a gourmet tour From: £1845 per person

Indian cuisine is renowned and relished all over the world and the classic range of regional cuisines from North to South and East to West reflects the great size of India and its unparalleled cultural heritage. The Indian Cuisine offers an abundance of both vegetarian and non vegetarian options and has an unmatched charm because of the extravagant spices used.

The finest of India’s cuisines are as rich and diverse as the country’s civilization. Indian cooking is a form of art that has flourished through generations purely by word of mouth. Indian cuisine, renowned for it exotic gravies, is wide ranging in variety, taste and flavour. Based on pragmatic medical precepts evolved over hundreds of years, involving experimentation and observation, most are aimed at nourishing the body and pleasing the mind and eye. Characteristic of all Indian cooking is the inspired use of spices. Far from being used only for flavour, they are appetite stimulators and digestives. Immense care is taken to ensure that spices enhance rather than dominate the basic flavour, and that they do not diminish nutritive value. Thousands of different dishes have been developed using various combinations of the key basic condiments.

Day 1: Arrive Delhi. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon you will visit Chandni Chowk or Silver Street, often referred to as the food capital of India, famous for its street food. Chandni Chowk resembles a fair; the streets are lined with halwais (sweet-sellers), namkeen wallahs (sellers of savouries) and paranthewallahs (rich, flaky breads soaked in ghee). On returning to your hotel, the rest of the day will be at leisure. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 2: Delhi. Today you will enjoy a full day sightseeing tour of Delhi. You will get a feel for this city as you explore its historic sights including Raj Ghat, the Red Fort and Jama Masjid. You will also get the chance to experience the bustling colourful market on a cycle rickshaw. This afternoon you will head into New Delhi, visiting the impressive Humayun’s Tomb, the Qutab Minar, India Gate, the Lutyens Delhi, the British Viceroy’s Palace, the Secretariat, India Gate and Parliament House. This evening, you will visit The Great Kabab FactoryTM to enjoy kabab. The Great Kabab FactoryTM is an Indian speciality restaurant offering you a unique dining experience. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 3: Delhi - Amritsar. This morning you will transfer to New Delhi railway station to board the train to Amritsar. Local snacks, tea or coffee will be served on board. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon you will visit a local market to enjoy the taste of Amritsari cuisine (Amritsari Chole & Kulcha, Amritsari Fish Fry). Overnight in Amritsar.

40

Day 4: Amritsar. This morning enjoy some free time. You may chose to explore the city at leisure including the spiritual centre of the Sikh religion, the Golden Temple complex (visitors must remove their shoes, wash their feet and cover their heads with a scarf ), and Jallianwala Bagh, the site of the infamous massacre that took place in 1919. This afternoon you will take an excursion to Wagah Border to witness the famous border closing ceremony. Overnight in Amritsar.

Day 5: Amritsar - Delhi - Jaipur. Today you will transfer to Amritsar railway station to board train for Delhi. Upon arrival at Delhi railway station, you will drive straight to Jaipur, the famed ‘Pink City’ and the capital of Rajasthan known for its palaces, three hill forts and a shopper’s paradise. Overnight in Jaipur.

Day 6: Jaipur. This morning you will take an excursion to Amber, capital of the old state of Dhundhar, located on the rugged hills surrounding Jaipur. Ride the colourfully painted elephants up the hill, admire the massive gateways, courts, stairways, pillared pavilions and palaces that recall the glory and wealth of Amber’s association with the Mughals. During the afternoon visit the City Palace (still houses the erstwhile Royal family); Jantar Mantar - the Royal Observatory and Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) - built for the royal ladies to watch the activities on the market street below without being observed themselves.

Evening you will enjoy cooking demonstration (Laal Maans, Rajasthani Sula, Gatta ki Sabzi, DaalBati-Churma etc). Rajasthani cuisine, is a splendid array of unique, rich, colourful, spicy curries and mouth-watering delicious sweets Day 7: Jaipur to Agra. Drive to Agra, en route visit Fatehpur Sikri - the imperial ruins of the dream capital city of the Great Mughal Emperor - Akbar.

Evening at leisure.

Day 8: : Agra. Visit the Taj Mahal in the morning by sunrise. The Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631, built one of the world’s most famous buildings, the ‘Taj Mahal’. Its perfect proportions and exquisite craftsmanship have been described as ‘a vision, a dream, a poem, and a wonder’. In the afternoon you will visit the 16th century Agra fort. This commanding red sandstone monument stretches 2.5 kilometres along the banks of River Yamuna, encompasses serene gardens and terrace pavilions, with striking views providing glimpse

of the magnificent Taj Mahal across the river and Tomb of Itmad-ud- Daulah. Evening enjoy Mughlai cuisine (Seekh Kebab, Biryani, Chicken Tikka etc) the taste of Mughlai cuisine vary from extremely mild to spicy, and is often associated with a distinctive aroma and the taste of ground and whole spices Day 9: : Agra to Lucknow by train. Transfer from your hotel to Tundla railway station in time to board train for Lucknow. Local snacks, tea or coffee will be served on board. Upon arrival at Lucknow railway station you will be transferred to your hotel. This evening enjoy Awadhi Cuisine (Mutton Biryani, Chakhle’s Shami Kebab, Makhmali Murgh etc), which has been greatly influenced by Mughal cooking techniques.

Day 10: Lucknow. Today after breakfast you will enjoy city tour visiting Bara Imambara – Bara means big, and an imambara is a shrine built by Shia Muslims for the purpose of Azadari. You will also visit Chattar Manzil or Umbrella Palace, Rumi Darwaza and the Clock Tower – The huge tower was constructed by Nawab Nasir-ud-Din haider in the year 1880.

Day 11: Lucknow to Delhi by train. After a morning at leisure you will transfer from your hotel to Lucknow railway station in time to board your train for Delhi. Local snacks, tea or coffee and Dinner will be served on board. Upon arrival at Delhi railway station you will be transferred to your hotel.

Day 12: Depart Delhi. Transfer to the airport to board flight for onward journey.

What’s Included: • Accommodation on bed and breakfast basis throughout the tour • Meet and assist at airports, railway station and hotels by our representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursion as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Entrance fees • Services of local English speaking guide as per the itinerary during city tours • Cycle Rickshaw ride at Old Delhi • Elephant / Jeep joy ride at Amber Fort, Jaipur • Train fare (shared cabin) for the sectors Delhi - Amritsar - Delhi, Agra - Lucknow and Lucknow - Delhi (air-conditioned chair car) • 5 Cooking demonstration • 5 Lunches or dinners

3-4. Amritstar

1-2. Delhi 5-6. Jaipur

7-8. Agra City

Hotel Featured

Delhi

Radisson Blu

Amritsar

Ramada Hotel

Jaipur

Country Inn & Suites

Agra

Radisson Hotel

Lucknow

La Place Sarovar Portico

Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation. Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

9-10. Lucknow

11-12. `Delhi

41

Hampi and Deccan

A Heritage Tour of Southern India

Price From: Standard Accommodation: £2319 • Deluxe Accommodation: £1499

This tour takes you back to the past though the extensive and elaborate stone ruins at Hampi, ancient Vijayanagar Kingdom, and the states of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Explore the cities of Hyderabad and Mysore; temples of Belur, Halebid, Sravanabelgola and wildlife of Nagarhole National Park.

What’s Included: • Accommodation on bed and breakfast basis except at Coorg and Kabini where it is on a full board basis • Meet and assist at airports and hotels by our representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursion as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Entrance fees • Services of local English speaking guide as per the itinerary during city tours • 2 Jungle safaris at Kabini National Park by shared open vehicle Day 1: Hyderabad. Upon arrival at the airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a 2 night stay. Overnight in Hyderabad.

Day 2: Hyderabad. After breakfast visit Golconda Fort, return to Hyderabad via the Qutb Sahi tombs. During the afternoon visit the famous Salar Jung Museum and Hyderabad markets.

Overnight in Hyderabad.

Day 6: Hospet (Hampi). Enjoy a full day sightseeing tour of Hampi. Hightlights are the King’s Palace, Mahanavami Dibba, the Queens Bath, the Lotus Mahal, the Elephant Stables, the Pushkarni, Hazara Rama temple, the Vithala Temple, the Virupaksha temple, Lakshminarasimha, Badavilinga and the Ganesha images. Overnight in Hospet.

Day 3: Hyderabad to Bijapur via Gulbarga. Early morning drive to Bijapur. En route visit Gulbarga Fort and Jumma Masjid with its elegant domes and arched columns reminiscent of the great mosque of Cordoba in Spain. During the afternoon visit Gol Gumbaz, the magnificent mausoleum of Muhammed Adil Shah in Bijapur.

Overnight in Bijapur.

Day 7: Hospet to Hassan. After breakfast head towards Hassan for a 2-night stay. This afternoon visit Belur & Halebid, a beautiful example of Hoyasala’s architecture. The most famous of them is The Chennakeshava Temple, which took 103 years to complete. The temples of Halebid bear mute testimony to the rich, cultural heritage of Karnataka. Overnight in Hassan.

Day 4: Bijapur to Badami. Drive to Badami for a 1-night stay. En route visit Pattadakal and Aihole.

Pattadakal is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has 10 major temples representing the 8th century Chalukya architecture while Aihole is a town with as many as 70 temples dating back to as early as the 6th century. Overnight in Badami.

Day 8: Hassan (Sravanabelagola). Today you will witness the splendour of Sravanabelagola, 51 kms south - east of Hassan, one of the most important Jain Pilgrim centres. Here is the 17m high monolith of Lord Bahubali - the world’s tallest monolithic statue. The remainder of the day will remain free to explore the surroundings.

Overnight in Hassan.

Day 5: Badami to Hospet (Hampi). After breakfast visit the cave temples of Badami and depart for Hospet for a 2 night stay. On arrival enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Hospet.

Day 9: Hassan to Madikeri (Coorg). Travel onwards to Madikeri, set amid glorious and verdant hillsides. Visit Madikeri Fort, Abbey Falls, and Nisargadhama - known for its calm, serene

City

Standard Hotels

Deluxe Hotels

Hyderabad

The GolKonda

Taj Banjara

Bijapur

Hotel Madhuvan International Hotel Madhuvan International

Badami

Badami Court Hospet

Badami Court

Hotel Malligi

Hotel

Malligi Hassan Hoysala Village Resort Hoysala Village Resort Coorg

Windflower Hall Resort

Orange County Resort Kabini

The Serai Orange County

Resort

Sandesh The Prince

Mysore

Sandesh The Prince

Bangalore

Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation. Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

Chancery Chancery Pavilion

42

beauty. Enjoy a 3-night stay at Orange County Resort. Activities include Ayurvedic rejuvenation, plantation tours, boating and swimming.

Overnight in Madikeri.

Day 10: Madikeri (Bylekuppe). Morning visit to Dubare Elephant Camp. After lunch visit Bylekuppe the second largest Tibetan settlement outside Tibet, complete with a Tibetan monastery with 4,500 monks, a Tibetan village and a flea market. Overnight in Madikeri.

Day 11: Madikeri. Enjoy a full day at leisure enjoying all the facilities of your hotel or take an optional excursion. Overnight in Madikeri.

Day 12: Madikeri to Nagarhole. Drive to Kings Sanctuary, a luxury wildlife resort set in Nagarhole National Park, once the Maharaja’s reserved forest. In addition to the elephants, the park also has gaur (Indian bison), four horned antelope, sloth bears and monkeys.

This afternoon enjoy a Jeep safari in Rajiv Gandhi National Park, Nagarhole. Overnight in Nagarhole.

Day 13: Nagarhole. Morning Jeep safari in the Nagarhole National Park, followed by a boat cruise or elephant safari. Overnight in Nagarhole.

Day 14: Nagarhole to Mysore. Late morning drive to Mysore for 2 night stay. Spend the afternoon at leisure to explore Mysore at your own pace. Overnight in Mysore.

Day 15: Mysore. This morning visit the huge Nandi Bull on Chamundi Hill and Maharaja of Mysore’s Palace. Overnight in Mysore.

Day 16: Mysore to Bangalore via Srirangapatnam. Drive to Bangalore en route visit Daria Daulat Bagh, the summer palace of Tipu Sultan at Srirangapatnam. Overnight in Bangalore.

Day 17: Depart Bangalore. Transfer to the airport to board your onward flight.

16-17. Bangalore

1-2. Hyderabad 3.Bijapur

4. Badami

5-6. Hospet

7-8. Hassan

9-11. Madikeri

12-13. Nagarhole

14-15. Mysore

43

PALACE ON WHEELS A Week in Wonderland

3. Sawai Madhopur

From: £4529 per person

2. Jaipur

1. Delhi

What’s Included: • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis in Delhi • Meet and assist at airports, railway stations & hotels by our representative • All transfers, as mentioned in the itinerary by airconditioned car • Palace on Wheels includes • Cost of travel for 7 nights / 8 days onboard the train • Catering (morning tea, breakfast, lunch, evening tea and dinner) • Conducted sightseeing tours in deluxe A/c coaches, entrance fee for monuments, cultural entertainment • Elephant ride at Jaipur, Camel ride at Jaisalmer, Boat ride to Lake Palace Hotel in Udaipur, Canter drive in the park at Ranthambore, and Rickshaw ride at Bharatpur City

Hotel

Delhi

The Claridges

Tour

Palace on Wheels

Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation. Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

Delhi * 7 nts Palace on Wheels (Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittaurgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur, Agra) * Delhi Day 1: (Tues) Arrive Delhi. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay Day 2: (Wed) Delhi – Jaipur : Enjoy a morning sightseeing tour of Delhi.

This afternoon you will transfer to Safdarjung railway station at where guests are accorded a warm, traditional welcome before boarding the Palace on Wheels. You will be escorted to your cabin and given a brief familiarization tour by the Khidmatgars with a welcome drink, as we start our week-long journey through Rajasthan.

Day 3: (Thu) Jaipur – Sawai Madhopur. Breakfast is served in the comfort of your sleeper cabin. The first stop of Palace on Wheels is Jaipur. This capital city of Rajasthan, popularly known as the Pink City.

To explore the city, an air-conditioned coach takes you to Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds. This is followed by a visit to Albert Hall and the City Palace, home of the erstwhile royal family. Right across the road from the City Palace is the Jantar Mantar. In the afternoon Ride on caparisoned elephants adding to the ambiance at the Amber fort followed by the lunch and then visit Amber Fort. Shop for Jaipur’s famous jewellery, handicrafts, carpets blue pottery and textiles.

Returning to the Palace on Wheels by night, Dinner will be served on board. Overnight on board Day 4: (Fri) Sawai Madhopur & Chittorgarh A visit is arranged to the Ranthambhor National Park. This wildlife sanctuary is considered to be the country’s best for observing and

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photographing the activities of the tiger. The tiger, hyena, ratel, jackal and fox are among those constituting the carnivorous population here.

After the game, a safari canter will take you back to Palace on Wheels for breakfast on board.

Lunch will be served on board as we head for Chittorgarh, when one gets an opportunity to watch the colourful countryside passing by in the daylight. In the afternoon sightseeing in Chittorgarh. You will also have an opportunity to witness the sound and light show at the majestic Chittorgarh Fort.

The Luxury coach will take you back to Palace on Wheels, dinner will be served on board. The Palace on Wheels stays in Chittorgarh station until the early morning before departing for Udaipur.

Day 5: (Sat) Udaipur. Arrive Udaipur & your breakfast will be served on board. After visits to the Garden of Fountains and the Durbar Museum, lunch will be taken at the Fateh Prakash Hotel, which contains an impressive crystal gallery.

In the afternoon after lunch at a Palace Hotel, we see one of the most beautiful sites of Udaipur, as we cross Lake Pichola by boat, past the majestic Lake Palace Hotel idyllically situated in the middle of the lake, and our visit to the City Palace takes in the largest palace complex in Rajasthan.

The Luxury coach will take you back to Palace on Wheels, dinner will be served on board.

Day 6: (Sun) Jaisalmer. Breakfast is served in your sleeper cabin.

In the heart of the Thar Desert lies Jaisalmer. The yellow sandstone fort towering magnificently over the city. Discover the painstakingly latticed Havelis or mansions with their grand facades. The Nathmaljiki-haveli, Patwon-ki-haveli and Salim Singh-ki-haveli are fine examples of the stone carver’s skill. Lunch at a Palace Hotel. After lunch, go for an exciting camel ride on the sand dunes of Sam, before sipping a refreshing cup of tea.

The Luxury coach will take you back to Palace on Wheels for wash & change.

Later enjoy the dinner and the cultural programmes at Palace Hotel.

Day 7: (Mon) Jodhpur. Breakfast is served in your sleeper cabin. Next morning the Palace on wheels is in Jodhpur, a city ringed by a high stone wall with seven gates and several bastions. The grand palaces within- Moti Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana are impressive examples of architectural excellence.

Lunch will be served at the city hotel. Luxury coach will take you back to Palace on Wheels, Dinner will be served on board.

Day 8: (Tue) Bharatpur & Agra. Early next morning, the Palace on Wheels arrives in Bharatpur. Pay a visit to the bird sanctuary, Keoladeo Ghana National Park, the nesting place of thousands of Egrets, Siberian Cranes, migratory Water Fowl and other species of birds. The Luxury coach will take you back to Palace on Wheels for breakfast on board and you will depart for Agra. Upon arrival in Agra, you will be de-board from Palace On Wheels. In the afternoon move on to pay a visit to Taj Mahal. A pristine monument of undying love. Dinner will be taken at the hotel, later on the Luxury coach will take you back to Palace on Wheels. Bid farewell to the train & perhaps a final drink in lounge bar..

Day 9: (Wed) Depart Delhi. Breakfast is served in your sleeper cabin.

Morning de-board the train at the Safdarjung railway station, you will be met & transferred to airport in time to board your flight for onward Journey.

4. Chittaurgarh

5. Udaipur – Jaisalmer

6. Jodhpur

7. Bharatpur

8. Agra

9. Delhi

This week long train journey takes you through Rajasthan, visiting many cultural and historical highlights. It travels mainly by night, presenting you with a fresh new destination, ready for a new day’s exploration. The 14 sleeping coaches named after the states of Rajasthan, each contain 4 en-suite bedrooms. A mini-party and two members of staff take care of the guests. The train has 2 restaurants “The Maharaja” and “The Maharani” with a Rajasthani ambience serving Continental, Chinese, Indian and Rajasthani cuisines. Also on board is a bar, lounge and library. The Palace on Wheels tour may be combined with selection of any of our other tours offered in this brochure.

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(Luxury Train)

Maharajas’ Express The Heritage of India From: £6869 per person

Discover the bustling commercial city of Mumbai and the national Capital Delhi. Admire the beautiful cave paintings at Ajanta, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the shimmering Lake City of Udaipur and the majestic Fort at Jodhpur and enjoy s sundowner on the sand dunes at Bikaner. Soak in the colourful Pink City of Jaipur. See from close quarters the legendary tigers at Ranthambore and one of the Seven Wonders of the World ‘The Taj Mahal’ all this and more in the utmost luxury.

1. Mumbai

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2-3 Ajanta

4. Udaipur

5. Jodhpur

What’s Included: • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis at Mumbai and Delhi hotels • Meet and assist at airports, railway stations and hotels by our representative • All transfers, as mentioned in the itinerary by airconditioned car • Maharajas Express includes: Accommodation • Meals, beverages (light drinks, tea, coffee, and mineral water) • Butler service • Porter-age at stations • Guided tours as detailed in the itinerary (excluding optionals) • Entrance fees at monuments

Day 1: (Friday) Arrive Mumbai. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to the your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 2: (Saturday) Mumbai to Ajanta. After a traditional welcome, complete your registration formalities and proceed to board the train.

Enjoy dinner on board as the Maharajas’ Express. Overnight on board.

Day 3: (Sunday) Ajanta Caves. After breakfast on board you will enjoy a tour of the World Heritage Site of Ajanta, where you will marvel at the rock cut caves dating back to 2nd Century B.C. with their exquisite frescoes and sculptures. Return to the Maharajas’ Express for lunch and the onward journey to Udaipur. Dinner and overnight on board.

Day 4: (Monday) Udaipur. After arrival in Udaipur, take a tour which includes a boat ride on Lake Pichola, followed by a visit to the City Palace and Crystal Gallery. Experience traditional hospitality over lunch at an exclusive venue and later proceed for an optional walking tour through the colourful and vibrant Old Market or visit the Vintage car collection of the royal family or enjoy an enthralling Sound and Light show in the Palace. Enjoy dinner on board the Maharajas’ Express as the journey continues on to Jodhpur. Overnight on board.

Day 5: (Tuesday) Jodhpur. A ride through countryside brings you to Jodhpur. After lunch on board you will depart on a tour of Mehrangarh Fort followed by a walking tour of the Old Clock Tower Market and the majestic Ivlehrangark Fort. Later, savour dinner at an exclusive venue followed by an optional visit to a local handicraft store. Return to the Maharajas’ Express for the overnight journey to Bikaner.

Day 6: (Wednesday) Bikaner. Enjoy breakfast on board the train, taking in the stunning scenery before arriving into the desert kingdom of Bikaner. Relax on board or take an optional excursion. After lunch, enjoy an afternoon excursion to the unassailable fortress of Junagarh.

6. Bikaner

7. Jaipur

City

Accommodation

Mumbai

Taj Mahal Palace & Tower

Tour

Maharajas’ Express

Delhi

Leela Hotel or Imperial

Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation. Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

Proceed for Sundowners, barbecue and a folk performance on the sand dunes before returning to the Maharajas’ Express for the onward journey to Jaipur.

Day 7: (Thursday) Jaipur. Enjoy breakfast on board the Maharajas’ Express before arriving into The ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur which welcomes you with an exhibition Elephant Ride followed by lunch at an exclusive venue. This afternoon visit the Amber Fort or enjoy one of the many optional activities available such as a private shopping tour or golfing at Rambagh Golf club or a visit to the City Palace & The Observatory. Enjoy dinner on board the Maharajas’ Express before departing onwards to Ranthambore. Overnight on board.

Day 8: (Friday) Ranthambore - Fatehpur Sikri. After an early arrival, embark on an exciting game drive into the Ranthambore National Park. Continue the journey to see the fascinating royal court complex of Fatehpur Sikri before returning to the Maharajas’ Express for breakfast and the onward trip to Fatehpur Sikri. On arrival, enjoy a tour of this deserted Mughal city. Return to the comfort of the Maharajas’ Express for an “Indian Evening” followed by dinner and overnight on board as the train departs for Agra.

Day 9: (Saturday) Agra. On arrival in Agra proceed for an early morning visit to the exquisite Taj Mahal followed by a champagne breakfast at the Taj Khema. Return to the Maharajas’ Express for the onward journey to Delhi and enjoy lunch on board. On arrival it is time to bid farewell to the Maharajas’ Express as you are met on arrival and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 10: (Sunday) Depart Delhi. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

8. Ranthambore

9. Agra

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Golden Triangle in Luxury From: £2999 per person

This tour offers a taste of the luxurious world of India’s glittering princely rulers of days gone by, combined with the all-round excellence and unparalleled levels of service offered by the award winning Oberoi Hotels & Resorts. Whilst based at romantic resorts and hotels you will visit Delhi, Shah Jahan’s 17th Century Old Delhi, with its teeming bazaars, the Red Fort and the country’s largest mosque, and New Delhi, with its elegant 1930s avenues and buildings revealing an enduring influence of the British Raj. The highlight of this tour is a stay in Agra, home to the renowned Taj Mahal, whilst the customs, palaces and fortresses of Jaipur vividly reflect the classical image of

Day 1: Upon your arrival in Delhi you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a 2 night stay at The Oberoi, New Delhi: Day 2: Delhi. Full day sightseeing tour of Delhi. Explore the Qutab Complex which houses India’s biggest single tower, the Qutab Minar, and the 4th century rust free Iron Pillar; the Mughal citadel named Lal Qila (Red Fort); and Lutyens’ Delhi. Also, visit the grand Jama Masjid and Humayan’s Tomb – a monument commissoned by Bega Begum in memory of her beloved husband.

Day 3: Delhi to Agra,. Transfer to Agra. Evening at leisure. Stay 2 nights in Agra at The Oberoi Amarvilas Day 4: Agra. This morning you will visit the Taj Mahal , built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. This afternoon visit Agra fort and Tomb of Itmad- ud-Daulah. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 5: Agra to Jaipur. Drive to Jaipur, the famed ‘Pink City’. En route visit Fatehpur Sikri, the imperial ruins of the dream capital city of the Great Mughal Emperor – Akbar. Afternoon at leisure. Stay 2 nights in Jaipur at The Oberoi Rajvilas Day 6: Jaipur. Morning excursion to Amber – capital of the old state of Dhundhar, located on the rugged hills that surround Jaipur. Ride the elephants up the hill, admire the wealth of Amber’s association with the Mughals. In the afternoon visit the City Palace (Jantar Mantar), the Royal Observatory and Hawa Mahal ( Palace of Winds). Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 7: Jaipur to Delhi. Morning drive to Delhi. Upon arrival check in at hotel.

Rest of the day free. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 8: Depart Delhi. Transfer to the airport to board your onward flight.

What’s Included: • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis • Meet and assist at airports and hotels by our representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursion as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Entrance fees • Services of local English speaking guide as per the itinerary during city tours • Cycle Rickshaw ride at Old Delhi • Elephant / Jeep joy ride at Amber Fort, Jaipur

City

Accommodation

Delhi

The Oberoi

Agra

The Oberoi Amarvilas

Jaipur

The Oberoi Rajvilas

Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation. Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

popular India.

1-2. Delhi

3-4. Agra

5-6. Jaipur

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The Platinum Collection logo is Travelpack’s highest marque of quality. Whenever you see the Platinum Collection logo you can be assured that, in our view, the tour, resort or hotel offers extra comfort, special refinements and intimate service in a style that would satisfy even the most discerning of travellers.

7-8. Delhi

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The Oberoi Luxury Cruise on the Kerala Backwaters From: £2269 per person

Kerala, commonly known as ‘God’s own country’ is one of India’s most enchanting destinations. Its picturesque backwaters, meandering through a series of canals and lakes, are a unique feature.

Cruise along Lake Vembanad, Kerala’s largest backwater stretch aboard MV Vrinda - an exclusive cruiser with 8 tastefully appointed luxury cabins, located on the lower deck, all with king size beds and windows overlooking the lake.

What’s Included: • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis throughout except on the MV Vrinda where it will be on a full board basis • Meet and assist at airports and hotels by our representative • All transfers, as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car

City

Accommodation

Cochin

Trident

Backwaters

MV Vrinda

Mararikulam

Marari Beach

Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation. Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

Itinerary Day 1: Arrive at Kochi Airport. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 2: Motor Vessel Vrinda. Transfer to MV Vrinda and sail along the main waterway on Vembanad Lake and enter the Alleppey Canal. The cruiser sails along the scenic waterways for four hours and returns to the Vembanad Lake in time to watch the sunset. Later in the evening, enjoy a performance of the highly ritualized ‘Kathakali’ dance, which tells stories from the ancient Hindu epics – Ramayana and Mahabharata. The vessel will anchor for the night at the Vembanad Lake jetty. Lunch, dinner and overnight onboard.

Day 3: MV Vrinda. Early morning set sail from the Vembanad Lake jetty and head towards Alleppey. Sailing through scenic backwaters, observe life along the water highways, while passing through one of the few areas in the world where farming is done below sea level.

Anchor near Kanjippadam and transfer to a traditional rice boat to navigate through the narrow sections of the backwaters. Visit the halfstatue of Lord Buddha at Karumadi and a traditional Kerala tharavad (family residence). Return to MV Vrinda for lunch; enjoy picturesque stretches of the backwaters on the way back to Alleppey known as the ‘Venice of the East’. Anchor for the night at the Vembanad Lake jetty. Dinner and overnight onboard.

Day 4: Motor Vessel Vrinda (rice boat excursion). At 7am, sail from Vembanad Lake jetty and head south, past Kanjippadam. Anchor near Chambakulam and transfer onto the rice boat once again for a prelunch sightseeing excursion. Visit St. Mary’s Church, established by St. Thomas in 1721 and “Sree Bhagavathy Kshetram” a 100-year old Hindu temple to Mother Goddess - at Nedumudy. Explore the Chambakulam snake boat yard, which displays one of the traditional long snake boats used in races. After cruising through the backwaters, return to Vembanad Lake to enjoy a ‘Mohiniattam’ recital on board. This classical dance form, distinctive to Kerala, is also called the ‘Dance of the Enchantress’. Dinner and overnight onboard.

Day 5: Vembanad Lake to Mararikulam. Disembark at Vembanad Lake jetty and transfer to Marari Beach situated halfway between Kochi and Alleppey. You will spend the next 4 nights at the Marari Beach Resort, a paradise of sun, sea, sand, and surf. Modelled on the fishing villages of the coast, this is a beach resort that offers total peace and natural beauty. The accommodation is in cottages separated from each other by generous stretches of open parkland, dotted with fruit laden trees.

Day 6: - 8: Mararikulam. At leisure. Participate in yoga sessions, meditation, Ayurvedic massages or any other scheduled daily activities at the resort. Alternatively just relax by the pool or on the beach.

Optional: One day Sightseeing tour of Kochi, includes a visit to the Dutch Palace and Synagogue. En route see the famous Chinese fishing nets.

Day 9: Mararikulam to Kochi. Transfer to Kochi airport to board your onward flight.

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1. Kochi (Cochin)

The Platinum Collection logo is Travelpack’s highest marque of quality. Whenever you see the Platinum Collection logo you can be assured that, in our view, the tour, resort or hotel offers extra comfort, special refinements and intimate service in a style that would satisfy even the most discerning of travellers.

2-4. Motor Vessel Vrinda

5-8. Mararikulam

9. Kochi (Cochin)

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2-3. Jaipur 4-5. Ranthambore

1. Delhi

What’s Included: • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis throughout the tour except at Ranthambore, Corbett & Almora where it will be on a full board basis • Meet and assist at airports, railway station and hotels by our representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursion as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Entrance fees • Services of local English speaking guide as per the itinerary during city tours • Cycle Rickshaw ride at Old Delhi • Elephant / Jeep joy ride at Amber Fort, Jaipur • 4 x Jungle safaris at Ranthambore National Park by shared open canter • Cycle rick ride at Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary • 3 x Jungle safaris at Corbett National Park • Train fare (shared cabin) for the sector Kathgodam to Delhi in a first class air-conditioned sleeper

Day 1: Arrive Delhi: Arrive at Delhi airport. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Day 2: Delhi to Jaipur: Drive to Jaipur, the famed ‘Pink City’ also the present capital of Rajasthan known for its palaces, three hill forts and as a shopper’s paradise. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 3: Jaipur: Morning excursion to Amber- capital of the old state of Dhundhar, located on the rugged hills that surround Jaipur. Ride the colourfully painted elephants up the hill, admire the massive gateways, courts, stairways, pillared pavilions and palaces all of which recall the glory and wealth of Amber’s association with the Mughals. In the afternoon visit the City Palace (still houses the erstwhile Royal family); Jantar Mantar – the Royal Observatory and Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds)- built for the royal ladies to watch the activities on the market street below without being observed themselves.

Day 4: Jaipur to Ranthambore: Drive to Ranthambore National Park - which is an outstanding example of Project Tiger’s efforts at Tiger conservation in India - and enjoy an afternoon safari. With the conservation efforts, tigers have become more and more active during the day. They can be seen lazing in the sun or feverishly hunting down the sambar deer around the lakes. Ranthambore is probably the most ideal location for wildlife photography. The other permanent residents of the park includes crocodiles, hyenas, jungle cats, wild dogs, sloth bears, and panthers, sambars which are abundant, chitals, nilgai, and some chinkaras. During the winter months there are a lot of migratory birds apart from the permanent residents like storks, quails, Bonelli’s eagles, spur fowls, crested serpent eagles etc.

Day 7: Bharatpur to Delhi via Agra: Morning free (Optional 2nd visit to the National Park). Drive to Delhi with stops en route visiting Fatehpur Sikri, the Red Fort, and one of the most beautiful monuments in the world - The Taj Mahal. Overnight Delhi.

Day 8: - Delhi to Corbett: Drive to Corbett National Park. In the afternoon a Jeep safari to India’s first ever National Park named after the hunter turned conservationist and writer – Jim Corbett. Over 50 mammals, 580 birds, and 25 reptile species have been spotted at the Corbett National Park.

Day 9: Corbett National Park: Early morning and afternoon safari by jeep or elephant.

Day 10: Corbett to Almora: Drive to Almora. Upon arrival check in at Kalmatia Sangam Himalayan Resort. The cottages are British colonial style with Kumaoni elements.

Day 11: Almora: Early morning excursion to Binsar – a picturesque sleepy hamlet, one of the most scenic spots in the Kumaon Himalayas. It’s a fascinating spot, encircled by a vast amount of wildlife and home to many rare animals, birds and wild flowers.

Enjoy the majestic views of the snow coated Himalayan peaks from an altitude of 2,420 metres. Return to Almore by noon. Rest of the day at leisure.

Day 12: Almora: Full day at Leisure. Optionally visit the Lake District of Nainital, which is famous for its beautiful lakes of Sat Tal, Naukuchia Tal, Bhim Tal, and Nainital, (at additional cost).

Day 13: Almora to Kathgodam: Morning free to explore the villages of the Kumaon Hills. Late afternoon drive to Kathgodam railway station and depart on the overnight Ranikhet Express Train to Delhi.

Day 14: Delhi: Upon arrival at Delhi railway station, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure to explore the cosmopolitan city of Delhi at your own pace.

Day 15: Depart Delhi: Morning transfer to Delhi International airport for your onward flight.

City

Accommodation

Day 5: Ranthambore: Depart on an early morning expedition in search of tigers, followed by an afternoon safari drive through the Ranthambore National Park.

Delhi

Metropolitan Hotel

Jaipur

Country Inn & Suites

Day 6: Ranthambore to Bharatpur : Morning game drive. After a late breakfast drive to Bharatpur. In the afternoon take a Rickshaw-ride in Keoladeo Ghana National Park-one of the most spectacular bird sanctuaries in India, with an abundance of nesting indigenous water birds as well as migratory birds. More than 300 species of birds are found in this small park of 29 sq.km of which 11 sq km are marshes with the rest being scrubland and grassland.

Ranthambore

Khem Vilas

Bharatpur

The Bagh

Corbett

River View Retreat

Almora

Kalmatia Sangam

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Hotels are displayed to show quality of accommodation. Alternative hotels may be offered at the time of booking.

In search of Tigers Kumaon and Corbett Country From: ÂŁ2639 per person

The Golden Triangle of Delhi, Jaipur and Agra is very rich in its cultural heritage and magnificent monuments. India is equally rich with Wildlife Sanctuaries and National parks, which lie conveniently 6. Bharatpur

close to many of the major cities. A relaxed holiday in the Kumaon Hills at a colonial style boutique resort at the end of your tour is a highlight of your trip. The diversity of Northern India’s geography, culture, 7. Delhi

religions plus its flora and fauna is showcased at its very best in this tour.

8-9. Corbett

10-12. Almora

13. Kathgodam

14-15.Delhi

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Scenic Mountain Railways

VICEREGAL TRAIN TO SHIMLA From: £1129 per person

DARJEELING HIMALAYAN RAILWAY From: £1139 per person

2nts Delhi • 1nt Parwanoo • 3nts Shimla - 1nt Delhi

1nt Kolkata • 1nt Siliguri (New Jalpaiguri) - Darjeeling Himalayan Railway ‘Toy Train’ 8hrs • 4nts Darjeeling

Shimla, the beautiful Hill Station, became a favourite retreat in the times of the British Raj , with gentleman and ladies enjoying garden parties, grand dinners, balls and evening promenades along the Mall. Several British landmarks, including Christ Church, the Cecil Hotel and the Gaiety Theatre came up along the ridge. In 1903, the Kalka-Shimla railway started making the hitherto arduous journey up the mountain far less arduous and even today the quaint toy train chugs up steep slopes carrying eager tourists for spectacular views and a taste of history.

Day 1: Arrive Delhi: Welcome, Meet and assist at airport and transfer to your hotel for a 2 night stay.

Day 2: Delhi: Full day sightseeing tour of New & Old Delhi.

Day 3: Delhi to Parwanoo: Drive to Parwanoo en route visiting beautifully laid out Mughal Gardens at Pinjore. Overnight stay at Timber Trail Resort.

Day 4: Parwanoo: Transfer to Kalka railway station to board the Kalka to Shimla Narrow Gauge Railway for a 3 night stay.

Day 5: Shimla: Morning visit to the famous Mall Road, Vice Regal Lodge, Christ Church and Himachal State museum.

Day 6: Shimla: Day at leisure. (Optional excursion to Kufri & Wildflower Hall at an extra cost).

Day 7: Shimla to Delhi: Transfer to Kalka railway station to board your train to Delhi for an overnight stay.

Day 8: Depart Delhi: Transfer to the airport and depart for onward destination.

What’s Included: • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis throughout the tour • Meet and assist at airports, railway stations & hotels by our representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Entrance fees to monuments • Services of local English speaking guide during city tours • Cycle Rickshaw ride in Old Delhi • Train fare (shared cabin) for the sector Kalka to Delhi by air-conditioned chair car and Kalka to Shimla by non-AC class

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A visit to Darjeeling is incomplete without a ride on the toy-train of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR). The miniature train, given Heritage status by UNESCO, covers the distance of 88 km in 8 hours between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling, taking you through 5 reverses, 4 loops, over 498 minor bridges, 177 unmanned level crossings and 12 stations en route.

Day 1: Arrive Kolkata: Upon arrival in Kolkata (Calcutta) you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Your city tour includes visits to Fort William, Victoria Memorial, the Indian Museum, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Birla Planetarium and the Botanical gardens.

Day 2: Kolkata to Siliguri. Transfer to Kolkata airport for your flight to Bagdogra, where you will be met and transferred to Siliguri for an overnight stay. During the afternoon visit the New Jalpaiguri loco shed. See engines, some of which were originally built in Glasgow.

Day 3: Siliguri to Darjeeling. This morning transfer to New Jalpaiguri railway station to board Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.

Upon arrival at Darjeeling you will be transferred to your hotel for a 4 night stay.

Day 4: Darjeeling: The beautiful hill station Darjeeling at an altitude of 7,000 feet called the ‘Queen of the Himalayas.’

Day 5: Darjeeling: Visit Ghoom Monastery to see one of the largest statues of the Maitreya Buddha, Himalayan Zoo and Natural History Museum.

Day 6: Darjeeling: Day at leisure to explore Darjeeling at your own pace.

Day 7: Darjeeling to Kolkata. Transfer to Bagdogra airport for your flight to Kolkata. Tour ends.

What’s Included: • Domestic flight in economy class for the return flight Kolkata to Bagdogra • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis throughout the tour except at Darjeeling where it will be on a full board basis • Meet and assist at airports and hotels by our representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as mentioned in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Entrance fees to monuments • Services of local English speaking guide during city tour • Toy train joy ride Kurseong to Darjeeling by non a/c class

The Call of the Wild and the Romantic Taj Mahal From: £2639 per person

Set amidst the Vindhyan ranges and the eastern flank of Satpura hill range, Bandhavgarh National Park is one of the best places to see Indian wildlife. The Reserve, named after its highest hill Bandhavgarh (807m.), was the former hunting reserve of the Maharaja of Rewa. With less undergrowth than many wildlife areas, the reserve offers excellent opportunities for sightings of wildlife, most notably mammals, including daylight sightings of Tigers in the grassy ‘maidans’. The romance of the rich forest is supplemented by a visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal on a tour full of rich highlights.

Don’t forget your camera!

Day 1: Arrive Delhi. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 2: Delhi to Bandhavgarh (by Overnight train). This morning take a short tour of the Capital of India, New Delhi, visiting Qutab Minar, Government buildings and Humayun’s Tomb. After lunch you will transfer to the railway station to board an overnight train for Katni.

Day 3: Arrive Katni/Bandhavgarh. Morning. Arrive in Katni and transfer to Bandhavgarh for a 3-night stay. Bandhavgarh is a small National Park, compact, yet full of game and with the highest tiger population in India. During your stay you will have morning and evening safaris in the National Park.

Day 4-5: Morning and evening safaris. The forests of Bandhavgarh, which was declared a National Park in 1968, are abundant with wildlife and flora.

Day 6: Bandhavgarh - Agra (by overnight train). Drive to the Katni railway station to board the overnight train for Agra. Overnight on board the train.

Day 7: Morning arrival in Agra. Enjoy an afternoon tour to the Taj Mahal which is an acclaimed architectural masterpiece and one of the wonders of the world.

Day 8: Agra/Delhi. After breakfast you will take a leisurely drive to Delhi and upon arrival check-in at your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 9: Depart Delhi. Transfer to the airport to board your onward flight.

What’s Included: • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis except at Bandhavgarh where it is on a full board basis • Meet and assist at airports, railways and hotels by our representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursion as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Entrance fees • Services of local English speaking guide as per the itinerary during city tours • 5 Jungle safari at Bandhavgarh National Park by shared open Jeep • Train fare (shared cabin) for the sector Delhi to Katni and Jabalpur to Agra by first class air-conditioned sleeper

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A Taste For Adventure Life’s adventures come in a variety of forms, whether it is in the kitchen, on the golf course, white-water rafting, horse riding or enjoying a camel safari – at Travelpack we can bring your adventure to life.

India offers something for everyone so if you want a little ‘joie de vivre’ – there is no better place to come. With its stunning scenery, magnificent architecture, vibrant cities, exotic food and passionate people, your holiday is always filled with a hint of adventure. But to spice it up even more why not add an extension to your touring holiday to truly get the best out of your visit to India.

CAMEL SAFARI Camp on a solitary oasis, experience the dark starry nights and dance to musicians playing haunting music. A camel safari is an ideal way to spend time exploring rustic Rajasthan. Travel through the golden sands of the Thar desert passing through remote villages with stops arranged outside remote villages enabling you to observe their way of life from closer quarters – without imposing on their daily routine.

HORSE SAFARI Rajasthan is also home to Rohetgarh Horse safaris which explore the Marwar region. Its semi-desert environment serves as an enchanting backdrop to the rich colours of the local population and their different ethnic cultures. The pride of the region is the horse, the ‘Marwar’, that has been bred over centuries of royal patronage.

Rohetgarh offers a variety of Safaris which provide both splendid riding exercise, and the means to witness authentic places of scenic and tourisitic interest. Well-bred horses that are a pleasure to ride, carry you across this enchanting desert landscape.

GOLF TOUR If you are passionate about Golf and you are an avid traveller then a Golf Holiday package in India is something you cannot miss. Our golf packages cover the best golf courses in India which are generally found in the Delhi area and the adjoining cities of Noida and Gurgaon. Tip - while playing golf in India: Always keep the handicap certificate of your local club ready. Some golf course may insist on it while most of the courses allow you to play golf without one.

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HIMALAYAN ADVENTURE Our Himalayan Sojourn is a perfect sampling platter - a preamble to the immense adventure possibilities available in the Garhwal Himalayas. Our Garhwal adventure will be based out of Camp Panther set on 4 acres of terraced fields in the Himalayan foothills, surrounded by a thick sal forest. The comfortable safari tents here have attached utilities. Days at camp are packed with activities and evenings are spent relaxing by the swimming pool or bonfire.

Activities include: white-water rafting, rappelling, rock climbing, trekking as well as lots of other optional activities.

COOKING COURSES Virtually every city in India has a variety of cooking courses available – with many hotels getting into the act. So if you would like to spice up your trip in the kitchen – then let us know and we will be happy to find a course to suit your requirements.

These are just a sample of the many adventures waiting for you in India – check our website or give us a call and we will be happy to discuss your requirements further.

Festivals and Special Events India is a land of festivals – wherever you are you can be sure that you won’t be far away from a festival or an event of some nature. With so many religions and regions, India is a smorgasbord of cultures with a disposition to party. Check our website for the latest information on events and festivals.

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Wellness Spa Holiday

Oberoi Wildflower Hall, Mashobra From: £1049.00 per person The Oberoi Wildflower Hall is a luxury resort set in 22 acres of virgin woods of pine and cedar situated 8,250 feet up in the magnificent Himalayas. The former residence of Lord Kitchener, rebuilt to a new magnificence, Wildflower Hall recreates the grand style of the colonial era. Wood Panelling and original artwork create an aura of old world charm. This fairy tale resort offers a tranquil sanctuary in the mountains. The Oberoi Spa at the resort offers holistic treatments based on Ayurveda. Oberoi Spas provide a serene and truly unforgettable experience of pure pampering and relaxation in exquisitely beautiful surroundings. Indulge yourself in the splendour of a bygone era at the Oberoi spa.

1nt Delhi • 4nts Mashobra • 2nts Delhi Day 1: Arrive Delhi. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 2: Delhi - Kalka - Shimla - Mashobra This morning you will be transferred by train to Shimla. Upon arrival at Shimla railway station you will travel to Mashobra on a picturesque drive through forested hills. Upon arrival at Mashobra, check in at your resort. Overnight in Mashobra.

Moksha Himalaya Spa & Resort From: £1219 per person Moksha is situated in the Shivalik Ranges amidst tall pine trees at a height of over 5000 feet. Come here to connect with your inner self and rejuvenate your soul. Moksha Himalaya Spa Resort offers a unique arrival experience by Swiss gondolas which take you across the mesmerizing valley over the river in 8 minutes to an environment of luxury set in the lap of nature and in the privacy of the HIMALAYAS. 1nt Delhi • 4nts Parwanoo • 2nts Delhi Day 1: Arrive Delhi. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 2: Delhi - Kalka - Parwanoo. This morning you will be transferred to Parwanoo by train. Upon arrival in Parwanoo, you will transfer up the mountain by cable car and check in to your hotel for an overnight stay. Overnight in Parwanoo.

Day 3-6: Parwanoo. Spend the next three days at leisure. The Moksha Spa approach is an energized world that uplifts personal well-being and lifestyle to a new & rejuvenated level.

Stay in Parwanoo.

Day 3-6: Mashobra. Enjoy three days at leisure in The world class Oberoi Spa at Wildflower Hall. Stay in Mashobra.

Day 6: Parwanoo - Kalka - Delhi. Today you will be transferred down the mountain for your train journey to Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi railway station, transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 6: Mashobra - Kalka - Delhi. Today you will be transferred to Kalka railway station to board train for Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi railway station, transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 7: Delhi (optional same day excursion to Agra). Enjoy a day at leisure in Delhi. Alternatively take an optional full day tour to Agra, to visit the magnificent Taj Mahal. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 7: Delhi (optional same day excursion to Agra). Enjoy a day at leisure in Delhi. Alternatively take an optional full day tour to Agra, to visit the magnificent Taj Mahal. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 8: Delhi. Tour ends. Transfer to the airport to board your flight for your onward journey.

Day 8: Delhi. Tour ends. Transfer to the airport to board your flight for onward journey.

What’s Included: • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis throughout the tour • Meet and assist at airports, railway stations & hotels by our representative • All transfers as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Train fare (shared cabin) for the sector Delhi / Kalka / Delhi in air-conditioned chair car

What’s Included: • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis throughout the tour • Meet and assist at airports, railway stations & hotels by our representative • All transfers as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Train fare (shared cabin) for the sector Delhi / Kalka / Delhi in air-conditioned chair car and Kalka/ Shimla in non-air-conditioned class

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Wellness There are few places more suited for a wellness break than Northern India. Relax in a Himalayan retreat and rediscover your inner calm. We can tailor a holiday to your specific requirements or add an extension on to a touring holiday. Below are some examples of the types of itinerary we would suggest – prices are on application.

Wellness Spa Holiday

YOGA TOUR From: £1219 per person Yoga in Sanskrit means “Union” between Jivatman and Paramatman. That is between one’s individual consciousness and universal consciousness.

This yoga tour takes you through the various yoga teachings under a trained yoga teacher. For the Beginners, our program offers an introductory course whilst for the more experienced practitioners it offers in depth knowledge and guidance.

ANANDA in the Himalayas From: £2929 per person Ananda in the Himalayas, is the ideal place for exploring the inner spaces of mind, body and soul. To revitalize, reshape and renew! Be it through the magic of the Himalayan landscape; the salubrious climate throughout the year. The luxury destination spa orients towards personal goals of guests; with elegantly appointed rooms, majestic views; this old Viceregal Palace exudes the charm of a bygone royal era. The uniqueness of the Ananda Spa approach is contained in the saying ‘Swastha Jeevan Sandhya’ meaning healthy lifestyle approach with assistance. Guests benefit from this by a private consultation from a Lifestyle Assistant offering professional guidance and individual attention.

Day 1: Delhi/Ananda via Haridwar by train and car. On arrival in Ananda you will check in to your accommodation and be briefed in a private consultation on the suggested activities and treatments. 3-night stay.

Day 2-3: At Ananda in the Himalays, (Wellness Bliss Package) Day 4: Transfer back to Delhi.

Bliss Package: 1 Session - Ayurvedic & Welness Consultation 1 Session - Wild Rose Salt Scrub 1 Session - Aromatherapy massage with a choice of grounding

detoxifying or invigorating blended oils.

1 Session - Anada Royal Facial 1 Session - Personalised Yoga 1 Session - Personalised Meditation What’s Included: • Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis in Delhi and a Half Board basis at Ananda • Meet and assist at airports, railway stations & hotels by our representative • All transfers, as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • Train fare (shared cabin) for the sector Delhi / Haridwar / Delhi in air-conditioned chair car

Day 1: Arrive Delhi, welcome, meet and assist at the airport and transfer to Hotel Oberoi Maidens. Overnight stay.

Day 2: Delhi/Haridwar, by train. Upon arrival transfer by Rickshaw (Rickshaw Ride) to Hotel The Haveli Hari Ganga. Later, you will have a meeting with your yoga instructor to discuss your prior knowledge and the sessions ahead. Evening visit Har Ki Pauri to witness Ganga Aarti (prayer in devotion of the Holy River Ganges). Overnight stay.

Day 3: Haridwar (Sightseeing). Morning and evening yoga sessions with your yoga instructor. Optional sightseeing. Overnight Stay Day 4: Haridwar/Rishikesh/Haridwar. Morning and evening yoga sessions with your yoga instructor. Afternoon excursion to the birth town of Hatha yoga - Rishikesh. Overnight stay.

Day 5: Haridwar (Rajaji National Park) Morning and evening yoga sessions with your yoga instructor. Afternoon visit Rajaji National Park (Chilla) for a jeep safari (elephant safari subject to availability). Overnight stay.

Day 6: Haridwar, (Patanjali Yog Peeth). Morning and evening yoga sessions with your yoga instructor. Afternoon visit Patanjali Yog Peeth which is an institution for treatment and research on Yoga and Ayurveda setup by famous yoga teacher Swami Ramdev Maharaj ji. Overnight stay.

Day 7: Haridwa/Deli, by train. Morning yoga sessions with your yoga instructor. Day at leisure for souvenir shopping or to explore town on your own. Evening transfer to railway station to board train for Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi transfer to Hotel Oberoi Maidens. Overnight stay.

Day 8: Delhi/Onward journey In time transfer to international airport to board flight for onward journey.

What’s Included: • Accommodation on a b&b basis in Delhi and Full board in Haridwar • Meet & assist at airports, railway stations & hotels by our representative • All transfers, sightseeing and excursion as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car • 5 x 1-hour Yoga sessions • Train fare (shared cabin) between Delhi and Haridwar

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City Breaks Bangalore

Bangalore used to be a pensioner’s paradise – a garden city with tree line avenues, dotted with innumerable lakes till Information Technology industry embraced it as its home a couple of decades ago. Today it is the geek capital of India and the city with the best all year round weather. It is also known for its pub culture which is uncommon in India. Like most places in India, Bangalore also has patches that have been inhabited since 9-10th CE, the first walled fort was built in 16th CE by Kempegowda. This city was a part of Mysore empire and gained prominence when the British setup their administrative capital here some 200 years ago.

Places to visit Tipu Sultan’s Palace, Vidhan Souda, Bangalore Palace, Kempegowda towers, Nandi Hills, Bannerghatta National Park Things to do Walk in Cubbon Park, Lal Bagh, take a boat ride at Ulsoor Lake, talking walking tour of M G Road, go pub hopping in the evenings Shopping Commercial Street, Brigarde Road and M G Road Short Trips from Bangalore Mysore, Coorg, Ooty, Bandipur, Kabini, Chennai, Pondicherry

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Delhi is a metropolitan region of India that includes the nation’s capital city of New Delhi.

The culture of Delhi reflects the rich heritage of the past along with the influence of modern lifestyles. Delhi’s rich tradition, effervescent history, monuments, museums, galleries, parks and Mughal Architecture are some of the special attractions that beckon tourists from all over the world. The contrast between the Old and the New Delhi is very much visible by the culture, lifestyle and tradition. Old Delhi, the former capital of Islamic India, still has the influence of the Mughal era which can be seen in the monuments, mosques and forts. New Delhi is completely different, with the lifestyle and city’s architecture having the influence of British Rule in India, comprising spacious tree lined avenues, imposing government buildings, and modern shopping malls and cafes.

Places to visit Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humanyun’s Tomb, Lotus Temple, Akshardhaam Temple, India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Jantar Mantar, Rajghat, National Museum, Toilets Museum, Crafts Museum, Rail Museum Things to do Take a walking tour, watch a show at Kingdom of Dreams, take a hop on hop off bus ride, walk in The Lodhi Garden, listen to Sufi Qawwali at Nizammudin Shrine on Thursdays, take a cycle rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of old city Shopping Dilli Haat, Hauz Khas, Chandni Chowk Short trips from Delhi Chandigarh + Kasauli, Neemrana, Jaipur, Agra, Mathura, Bharatpur

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Chennai Chennai is a quintessential south Indian city on the East coast of India that continues to hold traditions close to its heart. The region has been a trading hub since ancient times, but the foundations of the modern day city were laid when Fort St George was built by the British in 1639 laying their claim to territory that then fell between French territory in the south and Dutch Bastions in the north.

It was the capital of Madras presidency and bore the same name till it was changed to Chennai in 1996. Music and classical dance are an integral part of the fabric of Chennai.

Places to visit Marina Beach, Covelong beach, Konnemara Museum for Chola Bronzes, Dakshin Chitra, Basilica of the National Shrine of St.Thomas, Guindy Snake Park Things to do Watch a Bharatnatyam performance, Ride the Chennai-Mahabalipuram Hop On, Hop Off Bus, Take an early morning walk on Marina beach, walk around George town, Try traditional Chettinad cuisine, Watch a Rajikanth film Shopping T Nagar Silk Shops Short Trips from Chennai Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Kanchipuram, Tanjore, Pulicat Lake

Mumbai

Mumbai, the capital of Maharashtra, has over the years changed from an insignificant port city to one of the foremost metropolis of the world. Mumbai has history, wonderful beaches, Bollywood and is a shoppers paradise. Traditional music and theatre, amusement parks, trendy bars and nightclubs, and festivals celebrating the various cultures and religions will delight and entertain every type of visitor to this mesmerizing city.

Places to visit Elephanta Island, Gateway of India, Dhobi Ghat, Haji Ali, Adlabs Imagica theme park, Kanheri caves, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Global Vipassana Pagoda, KidZania Things to Do Walk around South Mumbai, Visit the Asia’s largest slum at Dharavi, Walk on the city beaches, Follow the famous dabbawallahs, travel in a local train, take a Bollywood tour – play an extra in the movie , Take a tour on Nilambari - Open Deck Bus, Check out Mumbai’s night life, walk the city with audio guides on your mobile Shopping Dharavi, South Mumbai designer boutiques, chor bazaar, Linking Road Short Trips from Mumbai Pune, Goa, Lonavala, Aurangabad, Nashik, Konkan Coast

Kolkata Kolkata claims to be the cultural and intellectual capital of India with many poets and authors hailing from here. A British capital till 1911, it has many landmarks that come from that era.

It has an old world charm with its trademark yellow ambassador cars as taxis on its roads. The city comes alive during the Durga Puja festival that falls in October when the whole city wears a festive look and decorated idols of Goddess Durga are ubiquitious. This is the only city in India where century old trams are still in operation and come at near zero cost. Nobel Laureate Rabindra Nath Tagore lived in Kolkata and his presence can be felt across the city even today. We recommend enjoying some Rabindra Sangeet while you are in Kolkata.

Places to see Victoria Memorial, Maidan, Fort William, Belur Math, Kalibari, Rabindranath Tagore’s House, Indian Museum, Eden Gardens, Howrah Bridge, Mother Teresa’s Tomb, Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture Things to do Take a walk or boat ride on the Ganges, idol making in Kumartuli, take a ride on a tram, Durga Puja during October, join a Kolkata Food Walk Shopping Bengali Sweets, Bankura Horses, Durga Idols, Local Silk & Cotton Short Trips from Kolkata Bishnupur, Shanti Niketan, Sunderbans, Darjeeling, Bhutan

Hyderabad

Hyderabad was home to one of the richest men ever – the VI Nizam of Hyderabad. The city still loves to live in the glory of the days when it was full of beautiful palaces. Some of these palaces have been restored for tourists and are definitely worth a visit, such as one of the world’s most luxurious palace hotels Falaknuma that overlooks the city from a vantage point. Golconda fort the erstwhile capital of the region, through its beautiful ruins tells many stories. Spend some time with the oldest residents of this city – Deccan rocks, that make some gravity defying formations and provide a unique character to the city.

Hyderabad is well known for its unique cuisine, the famous dish being Hyderabadi Biryani.

Places to visit Charminar, Golconda Fort, Chowmahalla Palace, Ramoji Film City, Hussain Sagar Lake, Lumbini Park, Salarjung Museum, Purani Haveli, Sudha Car Museum, Nehru Zoo Things to do Go on a food trail for Hyderabadi Biryani, Irani Chai, Haleem and Osmania Biscuits, watch the light & sound show at Golconda, take a boat ride in Hussain Sagar, walk on the oldest rocks in the world Shopping Pearls & Lacquer Bangles in the Old city, Kalamkari cotton fabric Short Trips from Hyderabad Nagarjunsagar, Bidar, Tirupati, Vizag, Warangal

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Oberoi Hotels & Resorts Oberoi Hotels & Resorts are setting new standards in the world of luxury hotels. Combining traditional beauty with modern facilities, each Oberoi hotel is the unique experience in every sense.

Their commitment to excellence, attention to detail and personalised service has ensured a loyal guest list and worldwide acclaim.

From the magical romance of the Taj Mahal to the vibrant hues of Rajasthan; from the majestic tigers of Ranthambhore to the tranquil serenity of the Himalayas, India promises you memories of a lifetime.

Complete your India experience with award winning Oberoi Hotels & Resorts. Savor exquisite regional cuisine, explore historic landmarks, absorb the rich history of each destination and experience Oberoi Hotels’ legendary hospitality.

THE OBEROI, NEW DELHI A modern, luxury hotel, the best of its kind in India overlooks the prestigious Delhi Golf Club. You can be assured of personal service and every 21st century convenience for a comfortable and relaxing stay. The beautiful open-air pool, Spa and Fitness centre by Banyan Tree allow you to relax away from the hubbub of everyday life.

THE OBEROI, MUMBAI This hotel plays a central role in the city’s booming life. Modern and quietly opulent, it is centrally located in the heart of the commercial district overlooking the Arabian Sea. The first choice for the discerning business and leisure traveller, the hotel boasts a selection of fine restaurants and bars and business facilities.

THE OBEROI, BANGALORE

THE OBEROI GRAND, KOLKATA

The Oberoi, Bangalore is close to the business and shopping districts. The hotel nevertheless enjoys the beauty and tranquility of a tropical landscaped setting. All 160 spacious and well-appointed guest rooms look out over the luxuriant planting, streams and ponds of the award winning gardens.

Affectionately known as the ‘Grande Dame of Kolkata’, The Oberoi Grand’s neo-classical façade and grand pillared entrance mark a successful fusion of classical and traditional Indian style and reflect the city’s colonial heritage.

Located in Chowringhee, the heart of Kolkata’s commercial district and shopping centre, the hotel makes an impressive, luxurious and convenient base to explore Kolkata.

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THE OBEROI AMARVILAS, AGRA The hotel lies just 600 metres from one of the greatest wonders of the world. The Oberoi Amarvilas is a breathtakingly luxurious hotel. There is only one way to truly experience the Taj Mahal. Straight out of an Indian fairytale, The Oberoi Amarvilas (Sanskrit for Eternal Heaven) is set among lush and serene Mughal-inspired pools and terraced gardens. Ancient and traditional Persian and Moorish influences combine with the very best in modern Indian interior design. This fusion is exhibited to spectacular effect in the cobalt blue and gold domed entrance hall, whose windows frame a fabulous vista of the Taj Mahal. Sixty-four fountains, filigreed stone bridges and pillars greet guests as they cross the torch-lit forecourt of the ceremonial entrance pavilion.

THE OBEROI RAJVILAS, JAIPUR The Oberoi Rajvilas is set in a princely oasis of thirty-two acres of beautiful gardens, pools and fountains. Designed as a fort the hotel has decorated arches, colonnades, pillars, reflective pools, cool beautiful interiors and tented canopies. Relive the gracious lifestyle of India’s legendary princes in comparably elegant surroundings with all modern comforts. Experience the very best of Western, Ayurvedic and Oriental therapies in the exquisite Oberoi spa. Superb attention to detail, friendly service and the beauty of harmonious spaces combine to produce a tranquil and romantic experience.

THE OBEROI UDAIVILAS, UDAIPUR Standing on the banks of Lake Pichola, with views across the water to the 17th Century palaces of Jagmandir and Jagniwas, the Oberoi Udaivilas recreates the grandeur of a Mewari moated palace. The hotel incorporates every conceivable modern comfort in its rooms and suites, many of which open out onto a semi-private swimming pool. Visual treats within the hotel property include open air colonnades flanked by 450 hand-carved stone columns, domes covered in gold leaf, hand-painted murals, arches, fountains and landscaped terraces. An excellent spa with a spa pool and a variety of fine dining restaurants completes the experience at the Oberoi Udaivilas.

THE OBEROI VANYAVILAS, RANTHAMBORE Vanyavilas is just a little way from the Ranthambore National Park and Tiger Reserve - home of the magnificent Indian tiger, deer, leopard, and crocodile. It is a luxurious jungle resort where no comfort is spared. Airconditioned luxury tents are set among lemon and mango trees by a carpfilled lake. The outdoor swimming pool is heated and there is a fabulous spa. This is no rustic camp.

WILDFLOWER HALL, IN THE HIMALAYAS Formerly the residence of Lord Kitchener, commander-in-Chief of the British Army, Wildflower Hall is situated an impressive 8250 feet above sea level.

The resort is an hour away from Shimla and is surrounded by 22 acres of magnificent cedar and pine forests and enjoys breathtaking views of the Greater Himalayas.

THE OBEROI CECIL, SHIMLA Over 100 years old, the Oberoi Cecil is a Grand Heritage Hotel, situated at Chaura Maidan, Shimla, 7000 ft up in the Himalaya. With fabulous valley views, The Oberoi Cecil is a perfect base from which to explore the spectacular mountain scenery, cedar forests and ancient monasteries of this world famous destination.

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Worldwide World Class Hospitality

CARLSON REZIDOR Hotel Group Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group is one of the world’s largest and most dynamic hotel groups. The portfolio of the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group includes more than 1,300 hotels in operation and under development, a global footprint spanning 100 countries and territories and a powerful set of global brands (Quorvus Collection, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson Red, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson and Country Inns and Suites by Carlson). In most of the group’s hotels, guests can benefit from the loyalty program Club Carlson, one of the most rewarding loyalty programs in the world.

Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group and its brands employ more than 85,000 people.

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Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi

Radisson Blu Jaipur

Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay Mamallapuram

Radisson Hotel Varanasi

Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Jaipur

Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Goa Candolim

Radisson Blu Agra Taj East Gate Road

Radisson Hotel Khajuraho

Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Amritsar

Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Gurgaon Udyog Vihar

Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Mysore

Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, Navi Mumbai

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The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai is an architectural marvel, which melds Moorish, Oriental and Florentine Styles. It is a fusion of majestic Indian elegance with refreshing European chic.

Luxurious rooms & suites overlook the city or face the Gateway of India and the Arabian Sea. Several award wining restaurants satisfy the most discerning palates and its grand banquet rooms form the ideal venue for special occasions.

Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur Feel like honoured guests of the Maharana at this exquisite white marble palace that seems to float majestically on the still waters of Lake Pichola.

Originally built as a summer residence, set in the middle of the lake, this 250-year old palace may be the most romantic hotel in the world. As a testimony to courtly love, the palace brims with princely details including marble pillars, ornate glasswork, intricate paintings, and much more.

Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad Nestled amidst verdand and unique themed gardens, Taj Falaknuma Palace was built in 1894 and served as the royal residence of Nizam Mehboob Ali Khan. After ten years of sensitive and extensive restoration, the Taj has infused new life into this sixty room private palace to offer visitors a glimpse of the imperial lifestyle of the Nizams who governed the legendary city of Hyderabad.

Rambagh Palace, Jaipur Spread over 47 acres of tranquil, landscaped gardens, Rambagh Palace is Jaipur’s foremost royal residence. Located close to the walled ‘Pink City’, spectacular forts, and all the unique shopping bazaars of Jaipur, the palace unveils the rich culture and history of the erstwhile rulers of Rajasthan.

Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur Umaid Bhawan Palace is the last of the great palaces of India and one of the largest residences in the world – set amidst 26 acres of lush gardens.

This golden-yellow sandstone monument was conceived on the grandest possible scale, in the fashionable Art Deco style of that time. It still is the residence of the Royal family of Jodhpur.

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Baghvan, Pench National Park

Mahua Kothi, Bandhavgarh National Park

Banjaar Tola, Kanha National Park Taj Safaris has four luxurious jungle lodges in Central India situated on the borders of well-known Wildlife Reserves in Madhya Pradesh.

Pashan Garh, Panna National Park The four spectacular lodges are built on India’s most popular wildlife circuit.

Some iconic animal species Including Tigers, leopards and over 300 species of birds are showcased in these parks.

Vivanta by Taj – Kovalam, Kerala Located on one of India’s most popular beaches, Kovalam, Vivanta by Taj – Kovalam, Kerala is spread across 15 acres of land. It offers a breathtaking view of the backwaters, lush landscapes, coconut palms, and unspoiled beaches.

Vivanta by Taj – Bekal, Kerala Sprawled over 25 acres, Vivanta by Taj – Bekal, Kerala creates a relaxing yet rejuvenating ambience. The resort is located on meandering Kerala backwaters, in an exciting natural environment with beach access. The Jiva Grande Spa offers an entire range of signature treatments, apart from dedicated ayurvedic consultation and treatment suites.

Vivanta by Taj-Madikeri, Coorg A rainforest’s best kept secret unravels itself across 180 green acres. A private Eden, perched on an idyllic hill-side nearly 4000 feet above sea level and canopied as far as they eye can see, the resort housed villas with stunning vistas and a 30,000 sq ft Jiva Grand Spa that delves five floors of a rainforest and star-lights the idiomatic Gudda Bath experience, a private Kodava museum, back packer diaries and lessons in survival skills, a 3000 sq feet pottery studio and a farm to table food story.

Taj Exotica, Goa 56 acres of lush tropical gardens make Taj Exotica the perfect Goan retreat, giving you the opportunity to relax by the pool and wind down at the spa or make the most of leisure facilities which include a 9 hole golf course. It is a graceful oasis of luxury and tranquility.

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The Indian Islands 1. Kochi

Lakshadweep The Lakshadweep Islands lie just 200km off the coast of Kerala amid the warm waters of the Arabian Sea. With silver beaches set against a background of coconut groves with crystal clear waters lapping the shore – this is an ideal add-on to a touring holiday in Kerala. The airport is on the main island and 45 minutes by motorboat away is the resort of Bangaram. Regular flights from Kochi (except Sundays) are the ideal means of getting to the island. The resort has excellent diving sites, snorkelling areas, a sandy beach for swimming and an Ayurvedic Centre for rejuvenation therapy and massage.

Day 1: Kochi to Bangaram via Agatti, by air and boat (90mins). Morning flight to Agatti (Lakshadweep). Your first tantalising glimpse of the islands is from the comfort of your aircraft seat as you fly in over the atolls- each wrapped in its own lagoon. Upon arrival at Agatti, transfer by boat to Bangaram Island for a 5 night stay.

Day 2: - 5: There are no scheduled activities during your stay at the resort. All the days are at leisure at the 128acre Bangaram Island which is fringed with an endless sandy beach. Among the variety of options available are swimming, scuba diving, snorkelling, catamaran sailing, deep sea fishing, rafting and kayaking to name a few.

Day 6: Bangaram to Kochi, via Agatti by boat and air.

Morning transfer by boat to Agatti Airport to connect with your flight to Kochi. Transfer to hotel in Kochi.

Note: Maximum checked in baggage between Kochi - Agatti - Kochi is 10 kg per person. Any extra baggage may be stored at your Kochi hotel.

Visas: Kindly also note that a permit is required to visit the Lakshadweep Islands for which we shall be pleased to be of assistance.

Contact us for a quotation.

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2-5: Bangaram Island

6. Kochi

4-5. Havelock

2-3. Port Blair

6. Port Blair

1. Chennai or Kolkata

The Andaman Islands

7. Chennai or Kolkata

Across the Bay of Bengal lies the 572 islands that form the Andaman Island group. Only 38 islands are inhabited, and much of the coastline is a declared marine reserve. With coral reefs and white beaches, this unpolluted paradise is a treasure trove for divers and snorkellers. Direct 2-hour flights from both Kolkata and Chennai offer easy connectivity from the mainland. These are an ideal destination for an extension to your India touring holiday.

Suggested Itinerary (price on application) Day1 : Chennai or Kolkata to Port Blair, by air. Early morning flight to Port Blair. Arrive and transfer by car to your hotel for a 3 night stay. Afternoon sightseeing and visiting the Anthropological Museum and Marine Museum. In the evening attend a ‘son et lumiere’ show at the Historic Cellular Jail.

Day 2: Port Blair, Full day tour of the North Bay Island offering exotic coral and marine life. The crystal clear water and virgin beaches are ideal for snorkelling and diving.

Day 3: Port Blair, In the morning visit Ross Island, initially developed as the residence of the Chief Commissioner and subsequently occupied by the Japanese. Now under the jurisdiction of the Indian Navy it is open to visitors. In the afternoon visit Viper Island.

Day 4: Port Blair to Havelock, by motor-boat. Early morning depart by motor-boat to Havelock Island. Transfer to Barefoot at Havelock for a 3 night stay. The resort offers a wide range of largely unexplored diving sites rich in underwater marine life.

Day 5: Havelock, Full day at leisure for snorkelling, excursions to beaches, fishing or visits to neighbouring islands.

Day 6: Havelock to Port Blair by motor-boat. Return to Port Blair for a 1 night stay.

Day 7: Port Blair to Chennai or Kolkata by air. Tour ends.

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Goa Goa is perhaps India’s most popular coastal destination and is often known as the “Pearl of the Orient”. Located on the southwestern coast of India in the coastal belt known as Konkan, Goa offers magnificent scenic beauty and architectural splendours (temples, churches and Portuguese style houses) have made Goa a firm favourite with travellers around the world. Goa is much more than just beaches and sea, with a unique history, rich culture and some of the prettiest natural scenery that India has to offer.

The tourist season in Goa begins in late September and carries on through early March. The weather in these months is usually dry and pleasantly cool, by end of June, Goa receives the full blast of the Indian monsoon with sudden downpours and tropical thunderstorms. However it is also during the monsoon that Goa is probably at its most beautiful, with greenery sprouting all around. Besides the natural beauty, the fabulous beaches and sunshine, travellers to Goa love the laidback, peaceful, warm and friendly nature of the Goan people.

After all, more than anywhere else on planet earth, this is a place where people really know how to relax.

North Goa The tourist centres are primarily located in the North of Goa, with the main resorts being Calangute, Baga and Candolim.

There is plenty of nightlife and shopping opportunities – particularly with the renowned Saturday Night Market which runs from December to early April.

South Goa Most of the luxury hotels are located on the long white sand strip of South Goa. Here the lifestyle is a little slower and the beaches are less crowded, cleaner and relatively hassle free.

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Excursion Options

Castaway Spend an exciting day out at sea, getting the most out of Goa’s beautiful beaches. You will depart in fibreglass canoes, towards Grande Island passing the harbour hopefully spotting some of the areas indigenous Dolphins. Try your luck fishing and snorkelling and laze on the deserted beach and enjoy a barbeque lunch with unlimited drinks.

There are plenty of options for a half or full day trip during your holiday in Goa. Goan Panorama This is a popular sight seeing tour that takes you to visit the most famous temples and churches in Goa. “Mangueshi” is a temple dedicated to the lord Shiva. “Shantadurga” is dedicated to Goddess Durga. You will also visit the “Basilica of Bom Jesus” where the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier the patron saint of Goa are enshrined, also visit the “Se Cathedral” mother of all churches in Goa. Follow this with a traditional buffet lunch at one of Goa’s Spice plantations, followed by a guided tour with an opportunity to bathe with or ride an Elephant.

Dudhsagar Waterfalls Enjoy a journey through small villages, past green paddy fields and into the forest canopy on an exciting trip to the 310 metre high majestic Dudhsagar Waterfalls located on the borders of Goa and Karnataka. You will embark on a 4-wheel-jeep drive through the Baghvan Mahaveer wildlife sanctuary, bouncing along red soil, dirt tracks and through shimmering streams until you arrive at the waterfalls. Once at the falls, enjoy a dip in the crystal clear waters and later proceed to a nature camp for lunch before returning to your hotel.

Bigfoot and a touch of Nature This excursion takes you to “Ancestral Goa”, a miniature Goan village in Loutolim, which reflects a traditional Goan village with typical dwellings.

The village also has the largest amount of palatial homes built during the Portuguese era. India’s longest sculpture is sighted here. Visit the Big Foot Museum and discover the story of the ‘Big Foot’ .

Spend the rest of your day experiencing Goa’s beautiful backwaters; you can spot a variety of beautiful bird species. This is a bird watchers paradise. We sail past ancient parts of undeveloped Goa where you can watch fisherman at work for their daily meal. The backwaters are also a home to the Mugger Crocodile which lives in the marshy mangroves.

For more information on these and many other tours available – check with your representative on arrival in Goa.

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Relaxing India Beach Resort Hotels of Goa

RESORT RIO - Arpora, Goa. - 5* 7 nights From: £969 per person based on 7 nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis in standard room, including return transfers Resort Rio is a five star rated luxury spa resort nestled on the banks of the Baga river. It is just a 5 minutes drive from the famous Baga beach and is known for its outstanding architecture and hospitality.

The hotel is rated as one of the best 5 star hotels in Goa due to its convenient location to major attractions namely Goa’s famous night markets, renowned beaches and much more. In addition, Resort Rio boasts one of Goa’s largest conference facilities and can accommodate up to 450 guests theatre style. The hotel also has a dedicated events team for conferences, weddings and banquets.

Accommodation Type: • Royal Suites • Luxury Deluxe Accommodation Facilities: • Separate Shower & Bath • Air-conditioning • Fan • TV • Satellite/Cable • Bathrobe • Hair Dryer • Room Sleepers • Broadband • Wireless/WiFi • Electronic Kettle • Mini Bar • Refrigerator/Bar size • Tea/Coffee maker • Guest Laundry facility • Balcony • Electronic Door Lock • In Room Safe Deposit Box • Non Smoking Hotel Facilities/Features: • Dining Options • Mamma Mia - Ristorante Italiano & Pizzeria • Pickled Mango - All day dining multi-cuisine restaurant • Jalsa- A Pure Vegetarian Gujarati restaurant attached with a vegetarian kitchen • Rio Cafe Bar - A coffee-shop by day and lounge bar by night!

Zaara - The Spa • Conference - Hall • Pool • Salon Treatments • Spa Gym • Wedding • Cinema • Beauty salon • Health Club • Yoga & Meditation Centre • Activity zone with indoor games (table tennis, board games etc) • Daytime events programmer run by our hotel activity team, and lots more...

Location: Arpora, Bardez Goa Ideal for: Families, Couples, Groups

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Relaxing India Beach Resort Hotels of Goa

Accommodation Type: • Cozy Rooms • Junior Suite • 3 Bedroom Luxury Villas • 4 Bedroom Luxury Villas Accommodation Facilities: • Minibar • Hairdryer • TV • Air-conditioning • Tea/coffee making facilities shower • wash basin and WC RIO RESIDENCY - Arpora, Goa. - 5* 7 nights From: £1055 per person based on 7 nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis in standard room, including return transfers A luxury boutique resort in North Goa in the same grounds as and with access to all the facilities and hospitality of its sister resort The Resort Rio. With best of both worlds, Rio Residency combines a beautiful peaceful setting on the banks of River Baga with the famous salt pans of Goa beyond but with all the comforts and pleasure of refined hospitality of its 5* Deluxe adjoining resort in North Goa, close to the famous Baga Beach. The accommodation comprises from great value cozy rooms to one bedroom apartments to luxurious 4 bedroom villas with private plunge pools. A true home away from home. Guests have the use of the swimming pools, restaurants, spa and all other facilities of the incredible 5* Deluxe Resort Rio, less than 2 minutes walking distance through well maintained gardens. A stay at the Rio Residency combines five-star luxury with the comforts of home. The best of both worlds!

Hotel Facilities/Features: • Dining Options • Mamma Mia - Ristorante Italiano & Pizzeria • Pickled Mango - All day dining multi-cuisine restaurant • Jalsa- A Pure Vegetarian • Gujarati restaurant attached with a vegetarian kitchen • Rio Cafe Bar A coffee-shop by day and lounge bar by night! • Zaara - The Spa • Conference - Hall • Pool • Salon Treatments • Spa Gym • Wedding • Cinema • Beauty salon • Health Club • Yoga & Meditation Centre • Activity zone with indoor games (table tennis, board games etc) • Daytime events programmer run by our hotel activity team, and lots more…

Location: Arpora, Bardez Goa Ideal for: Couple, Families and great for groups

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Relaxing India Beach Resort Hotels of Goa

Hard Rock Hotel - Calangute, Bardez Goa - 5* 7 nights From: £550 per person based on 7 nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis in standard room, including return transfers Have a rocking holiday at Hard Rock Hotel Goa, the first resort of its kind in India. Located in the heart of Calangute just minutes from a number of famed beaches, our Goa resort is a complete entertainment destination, offering world-class accommodations, stylish design and unparalleled service that will refine lifestyle hotel living.

Live freely at Hard Rock Hotel Goa. Sample international cuisine or a classic hamburger at Sessions, float around in our crystal blue pool (the longest in town!) and enjoy a fabulous cocktail at Tonic — we have it all, and more, at Hard Rock Hotel Goa.

Accommodation Type: • Advantage room • Advantage Pool view • Grand room • Family room • Superior Suite • Deluxe Suite Accommodation facilities: • 24hr room service • Internet access • Cable TV & lavazza • Coffee machines in every room.

Hotel Facilities/Features: • Breath-taking Swimming Pool in the courtyard • The Fitness Centre features all modern equipment • Kids Pool along with Kids Club • The North Café – an all-day dining restaurant • North 16 Bar and a 24 hour poolside dining area Location: Porba Vaddo| Calangute Bardez Ideal for: Families and Couples

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Relaxing India Beach Resort Hotels of Goa

Accommodation Type: • Superior Charm Garden View w/Sitout • Superior Charm Sea View • Superior Charm Sea View w/sitout • Premium Indulgence CottageGarden View • Premium Indulgence Cottage w/Terrace • Premium Temptation Villa-Garden View • Deluxe Allure Suite w/Terrace • Premium Temptation Villa-Sea View • Premium Temptation Villa-2 Bedroom • Luxury Bliss Villa-2 Bedroom • Presidential Nirvana Villa-3 Bedroom Accommodation Facilities: • Premium Temptation Villa - Two Bedroom - 1650 sq ft • Ergonomically designed study table and chair • Interactive Television - 32” LCD TV screen • Dual line telephones • DVD player • Bath amenities are Forest Essentials made from natural ingredients • 100% cotton robes (On request) • Wall-mounted makeup mirror, hair dryer and scale • Electronic safe • High Bandwidth wireless Internet (usage fee applies) • Bedroom slippers (On request) • Fruit Basket (on request) • Complimentary personal tea/coffee makers, mineral water & newspapers • Use of pool and fitness centre • Treat Yourself cabinet with a selection of health drinks, snacks, chocolate treats and beverages (charge applies) • Rest Easy menu with choice of pillows • 24-hour in room dining • Non-Smoking rooms available (on request) • Housekeeping service twice daily • morning cleaning and evening turndown • Rollaway beds and cribs available on request • Baby crib (on request) • Dental / Shaving kit (On request)

VIVANTA BY TAJ FORT AGUADA - Sinquerim 5* 7 nights From: £1345 per person based on 7 nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis in standard room, including return transfers Vivanta by Taj - Fort Aguada, is Goa at its best. Romantic. Charming.

Vibrant. It has history woven in its walls. It’s where royalty, heads of government and the biggest celebrities are known to frequent.

For the luxury Goa experience, which no other place has been able to recreate. Not much has changed. The picturesque settings creates a fantastic backdrop to the entire experience ,added to which the nouvelle restaurants and the Jiva spa will make you go Ah! Soak in the space that showcases the spirit of Goa. Explore the horizon as you look over the infinity pool, beyond the 16th century ramparts of the Portuguese Fort, and wave back to the tide as it works its way across the Arabian Sea to joyfully greet the Sinquerim beach below. Explore Goa in a vivid, vibrant way.

Hotel Facilities/Features: • Fitness Centre • Swimming pool • Rock Climbing • Tyrolean Traverse / Flying Fox • Astrologer • Beauty Salon • Fitness centre • Outdoor swimming pool • Village Gift Shop • Indoor games • Library • Complimentary airport transfers by coach • Select Kid’s activities at Activity centre • Select sports facilities • Babysitting, with 24 hours prior notification • Currency exchange • Doctor-on-call • Postal & Parcel Services Travel & Tours desk • Airport transfers • Jiva Spa • Meeting Rooms & Banquet Facilities • Restaurants – Latitude (Coffee shop) • Il Camino (Italian specialty restaurant open for dinner only) • Morisco (Sea Food specialty restaurant) • SFX (Lounge bar) and Martini Bar Location: Sinquerim, Candolim Bardez Ideal for: Families • Couples • Honeymooners and a great venue for a Wedding

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Relaxing India Beach Resort Hotels of Goa

Accommodation Type: • Superior Charm Cottage w/Balcony • Superior Charm Cottage w/ Sitout • Premium Indulgence Cottage-Garden View • Premium Indulgence Cottage-Sea View • Deluxe Allure Villa-Garden View • Premium Temptation Villa-Sea View • Luxury Bliss Villa-Sunset View VIVANTA BY TAJ HOLIDAY VILLAGE - Candolim, Goa - 5* 7 nights From: £1539 per person based on 7 nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis in standard room, including return transfers Vivanta By Taj Holiday Village, Goa lies along the sands of Sinquerim and is just a short hop away from the more popular beaches of Baga & Calangute. It’s the perfect place to experience old world Goa with a modern twist. Still the charming village, that flirts with the seafront.

The Vivanta by Taj Holiday Village is where fun lovers come for regular doses of holiday delights, where there is always a new buzz in the air.

In the cottages and villas, the nouvelle restaurants, the island bar, and the spa where you’ll go Ah! Chef Rego remains, as always, eager to wow you with specially designed meals. Try mixing biz with fun and see how well wired the village is. A welcome like no other awaits for you at the Vivanta by Taj Holiday Village, you might break in to dance at the reception, when Goan musicians soulfully strum a guitar and drum a ‘ghumot’ in a unique Indo-Portuguese style. And that’s just for starters.

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Accommodation Facilities: • Superior Charm Cottage w/ Balcony - 235 - 315 sq. ft • 30” to 40” LCD Television • work on request • Bath amenities are Forest Essentials made from natural ingredients • 100% cotton robes • Wallmounted makeup mirror, hair dryer and scale • Electronic safe • High Bandwidth wireless Internet (usage fee applies) • Complimentary personal tea/coffee makers, packaged drinking water & newspapers • Use of pool and fitness centre • Treat Yourself cabinet with a selection of snacks, chocolate treats and beverages (charge applies) • Rest Easy menu with choice of pillows • 24-hour in room dining • Housekeeping service twice daily - morning cleaning and evening turndown • Rollaway beds and cribs available on request Hotel Facilities/Features: • Fitness centre • Sports Complex • Concierge Services • Pool bar • Kids Area-Jungle Jam • Signature Jiva Spa • Beauty Salon • Outdoor swimming pool • Village Gift Shop • Indoor games • Library • Babysitting, with 24 hours prior notification • Currency exchange • Doctor-on-call • Postal & Parcel Services • Meeting Rooms & Banquet Facilities Location: Dando, Candolim, Goa Ideal for: Couples, Families and Groups

Relaxing India Beach Resort Hotels of Goa

HOLIDAY INN RESORT GOA Mobor Beach, Cavelossim, South Goa - 5* 7 nights From: £729 per person based on 7 nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis in standard room, including return transfers Located on the picturesque Mobor beach in South Goa with direct beach access, The Holiday Inn Goa offers hotel accommodation that is a unique blend of traditional Goan and contemporary architecture.

This resort is tastefully designed, and recently refurbished with a refreshed new look, and provides exemplary personalised service to a global standard, offering a combination of rustic charm with modern facilities. The property is set in expansive gardens along a perfect stretch of white sandy beach.

Accommodation Type: • Plaza Garden View • Deluxe Room • Physical Challenge • Kids Suite • Suite • Family/Executive Accommodation Facilities: • Elegant centrally air-conditioned standard rooms with options of pool or garden views • Well appointed work desk and seating arrangements • Mini Bar • Tea/ coffee makers • Electronic safes • Luxurious bathrooms with bath tub • Hair dryers • Wardrobe • Direct dialing facility • Colour television with live satellite entertainment & news transmissions.

Hotel Facilities/Features: • Spa Villa - Steam Room/Sauna • Beauty salon • Health Club • Game Room • Kids Playground • Pool (Outdoor) • Tennis (Outdoor) Subject to weather conditions • Pool (Children) • Football • Volleyball • Activity zone with indoor games (table tennis, pool table, board games etc) • Daytime events programme run by our hotel activity team Location: Mobor Beach, Cavelossim South Goa Ideal for: Families • Couple • Weddings • Conferences

HAATHI MAHAL Cavelossim, South Goa - 4* 7 nights From: £399 per person based on 7 nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis in standard room, including return transfers A mere seven-minute walk from South Goa’s Cavelossim Beach stands the regal and imposing Haathi Mahal. Translated literally, Haathi Mahal means Elephant Palace; in reality it is a metaphor for the larger-than-life experiences offered to all the guests.

At Haathi Mahal it’s a fully loaded holiday from the word go. A dizzying choice of entertainment and recreation awaits you: two large swimming pools, an aqua park, Jacuzzi, a Goan-Portuguese restaurant, Lobby bar, swim-up pool bar, an English Pub, the worldclass Karma Spa & Salon, gym and beautifully landscaped gardens.

Not forgetting the silver sands of Cavelossim Beach where friendly dolphins, boat rides and water sports complete the thrill of being in Goa. Accommodation Type: • Superior Room • Deluxe room Accommodation Facilities: • In-suite electric kettles for tea/coffee • Telephone • Double bed/ 2 single beds • Balcony with Two Chairs • Sofa • Central Ac and ceiling fans • Bathrooms with Bath Tub • Closets • Fridge • Wi-Fi Connectivity • Hairdryer (on request) Hotel Facilities/Features: • Aqua Park • Swimming Pools and Jacuzzi • Splash Bar • swim-up, sunken bar and snack counter • Karma Spa • Gymnasium • Wi-Fi • Recreation • Bazaar • Wine And Dine Facilities • Conference Facilities Location: Cavelossim, Mobor Ideal for: Families • Couples Location: Cavelossim, Mobor | Ideal for: Families • Couples

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Relaxing India Beach Resort Hotels of Goa

Accommodation Type: • Deluxe Room • Suites Accommodation Facilities: • Cosy Couches • LCD TV with DTH Connection & DVD player • Complimentary Mini Bar • One Touch Dialling for Hotel Services • Electronic Safety Deposit Vault • Wi-Fi Internet Access • Tea-Coffee Maker • Telephones with ISD & STD • Mini Bar • Chairs • Iron Table • Alarm Clock • Safely Locker • Shoe Polish • Study Table with Lamp • T.V. with DVD Player Hotel Facilities: • Concierge • In-Room Dining • Butler Service on Demand • Valet & Laundry Services • Baby sitting • Currency Exchange • Travel Services • Doctor on Call • Left Luggage Service • Wi-Fi Internet Access • E-mail Service • Spa • Fitness Centre • Swimming Pool • Pool & Table Tennis • River-Boat Ride Location: Betul, South Goa Ideal for: Couples • Family Groups

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MAYFAIR HIDEAWAY SPA RESORT - 5* - Betul, South Goa 7 nights From: £629 per person based on 7 nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis in standard room, including return transfers The idyllic small yet beautiful state of Goa with its unspoilt beaches, blue waters, plush greenery and prehistoric monuments offers a unique experience of Portuguese and Indian cultures. The MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts captures the spirit of the beautiful state in a 5-star resort combining its abundant natural beauty with refined luxury and utmost care. The Mayfair Hideaway Spa Resort is located on the seamouth and promises an abundance of luxury to its guests.

The Mayfair Hideaway Spa Resort at Betul, Salcete, has been tastefully designed to meet the standards of the best luxury hotel in Goa. Set in a beautiful isolated location surrounded by river estuaries and rich forest, this beautiful spa resort is ideal for couples or Honeymooners looking for secluded luxury.

The resort is elegantly decorated throughout with magnificent attention to detail. The hotel offers multi cuisine restaurants, a pool bar, bar, library-lounge, spa, and large swimming pool adjacent to the river all of which adds a little spark to a holiday in Goa.

Relaxing India Beach Resort Hotels of Goa

GOA MARRIOTT RESORT & SPA - Miramar Beach, Panjim Goa - 5* 7 nights From: £859 per person based on 7 nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis in standard room, including return transfers Discover Goa Marriott Resort & Spa, one of the finest hotels in Goa offering amenities designed to meet every need of the leisure or business traveler. This hotel’s accommodations include a lobby, restaurants and guest rooms with modern amenities that will inspire you to engage, relax, work or play. It boasts 180 renovated rooms with picturesque views of the expansive bay and well-maintained gardens. Spend a day at the spa or partake in an outdoor yoga class to revive the body and mind. The dining facilities include a revolutionary transition lounge, an outdoor barbecue restaurant and 24-hour in-room dining. Celebrating your wedding day or organizing an important event is a breeze with 14,144 square feet of unforgettable banquet and conference space designed to inspire. A convenient location near local favorites like Se Cathedral and Fort Aguada make us a tourist attraction favorite.

Luxury and extraordinary hospitality standards awaits at one of the most unforgettable Goa hotels.

Accommodation Type: • Garden View • Guest room • 1 King or 2 Double • Garden view • Bay View Room • Guest room • 1 King or 2 Double • Bay view • Bay View Patio • Guest room • 1 King or 2 Double • Bay view • Bay View Suite • 1 Bedroom Suite • 1 King • Bay view Accommodation Facilities: • Air-conditioned • This room is non-smoking • Connecting rooms are available (for some rooms) • Living/sitting area • Windows, soundproof • Chair • Alarm Clock (Bang and Olufsen) • Safe, in room • Table with seating for 1 • Desk, writing / work, electrical outlet Iron and ironing board • Trouser press • Bathtub and shower separate • Hair dryer • Robe • Slippers Hotel Facilities/Features: • Coffee/tea in-room • Concierge desk • Evening turndown service • Foreign exchange • Gaming casino • Gift/newsstand • Housekeeping service daily • Laundry on-site • Mobility accessible rooms • Newspaper delivered to room, on request • Newspaper in lobby Room service • Room service, 24-hour • Safe deposit boxes, front desk Shoeshine • Valet dry-cleaning • Video games • Virtual Concierge Available Location: Miramar-Panaji Ideal for: Families, Couples, Singles and Weddings

CIDADE DE GOA - Vainguinim Beach Goa - 5 * 7 nights From: £755 per person based on 7 nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis in standard room, including return transfers Cidade de Goa Hotel in Goa is less than 10 minutes around the coastal road from Panjim, the capital. The hotel is surrounded by 40 acres of immaculately kept gardens with views over the tropical Bay. The large, free-form swimming pool also overlooks the beach with plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas plus ‘Bar Latino’, the poolside bar. Cidade de Goa has a reputation for high standards and has become an all time favourite in the British market. Many awards have been won for its innovative architecture and Portuguese style décor in some of the rooms, and within its many restaurants.

A wide variety of cuisine is available at themed restaurants such as the ‘Alfama’ fine dining restaurant, plus regular organised evenings and the ‘Beach side BBQ’. The newly renovated ‘Cafe Azul’ restaurant with its open plan kitchen offers an international menu.

Accommodation Type: • Standard Room • Superior Room • Classic Room • Deluxe Room Accommodation Facilities: • Mini Bar • Satellite Television & DVD Player • Tea Coffee Maker Central A/c with individual control • Hairdryer • 24 hour room Service • High speed wired (dataport) and WiFi internet access Chargeable • Private Safe Hotel Facilities/Features: • Goldfinger Casino • Business Centre • Adventure Desk • Shopping Arcade • Transport Services Location: Vainguinim Beach Goa, India.

Ideal for: Families, Couples

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Relaxing India Beach Resort Hotels of Goa

THE KENILWORTH BEACH RESORT - Utorda Beach, South Goa - 5* 7 nights From: £1219 per person based on 7 nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis in standard room, including return transfers The Kenilworth in Goa is a superb beachfront hotel, its architecture a blend of Portuguese and Goan traditional styles and a firm favourite with British clients. The 14 acres of beautifully maintained gardens are its real attraction offering a real sense of space and beauty. There is a garden café where breakfast is served, a large swimming pool, and plenty of places to relax with sun loungers and hammocks throughout the garden. A variety of beach activities and watersports are offered on Utorda Beach itself plus the hotel’s own beach shack, which caters specially in seafood and offers regular theme nights. A variety of eating experiences are available within the Kenilworth Beach Resort often accompanied by musical entertainment. The reception bar is also welcoming with a satellite TV tuned to important football matches.

Other facilities offered within the hotel include: tennis, health club with beauty salon, steam, sauna and jacuzzi, and an Ayurvedic massage centre with in-house doctor.

Accommodation Type: • Deluxe / Garden View Rooms • Superior Deluxe Rooms • Executive Suite / Presidential Suite Accommodation Facilities: • 23” Flat screen television • Desk with work station • Broadband connectivity (Wi-Fi) • Direct dial & voice mail telephone • Complimentary beverages and mineral water • 24 hour room service • Mini bar • Tea & coffee dispensers • Secured room key access • In-room digital safe • Hair dryer • Daily newspaper (complimentary) • Housekeeping service Hotel Facilities/Features: • Wireless broadband internet • travel assistance • Sightseeing tours • Gourmet shop • Laundry • Doctor on call • Currency exchange • Shopping arcade • Business centre • Fitness Centre • Children’s activity centre • Water sports • Valet service Location: Utorda Beach, South Goa Reason to Stay: Friendly staff and plush amenities make your experience a delightful one • Water sports and luxurious spa experiences • Comfort and swish amenities of well endowed.

Ideal for: Families • Couples • Honeymooners • Weddings

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Relaxing India Beach Resort Hotels of Goa

ZURI WHITE SANDS RESORT & SPA - Varca Beach, South Goa-5* 7 nights From: £1305 per person based on 7 nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis in standard room, including return transfers The Zuri White Sands Goa, formerly the Radisson White Sands Goa, is a fabulous hotel in an excellent location set in extensive grounds surrounded by coconut groves leading down to the beach. This is the only resort in Goa where you will find a free form swimming pool that meanders right across the property, just a step away from the ground floor room terraces. With a waterfall at one end and spanned by picturesque bridges, a lovely swim-up bar, the pool makes a stunning focal point. There is a wide choice of cuisine available at the Zuri White Sands Hotel with international cuisine served at the Waterfall Café, which offers 24-hour casual dining on the patio or in the air-conditioned indoor section. ‘Sake’ offers Pan Asian cuisine, serving Japanese, Thai and Chinese specialities, with live Teppanyaki (the first in Goa) cooked to perfection while you watch. Located at the lobby level, Sake offers indoor dining or al fresco dining on the terrace overlooking the pool. Down at the beach the Seafood Beach restaurant and beach bar is perfect for al fresco dining with a real ‘chill out’ ambience. The air-conditioned lobby bar and lounge is ideal for that pre-dinner drink.

The Zuri White Sands Resort offers an excellent standard of accommodation and a great range of facilities in a superb location, with direct access to what is arguably the best beach in Goa.

Accommodation Type: • The Superior Room • The Zuri Premium Room • The Zuri Deluxe Room • The Zuri Executive Suite • The Zuri White Suite Accommodation Facilities: • Complimentary broadband access • LCD TV • Satellite/cable TV • Daily newspaper • Executive writing desk • IDD Telephone • Electronic safe • Daily complimentary water • Tea and coffee making facilities • Minibar • Premium toiletries • Hair dryer • Complimentary shoeshine service • Rain shower cubicle Hotel Facilities/Features: • Recreational activities • Casino • Swimming pool • Kiddy pool • A swim–up bar • Gymnasium • Video games • An assortment of water games on offer • unisex beauty salon • DJ • dance floor and a bar Location: Pedda, Varca, Salcete Goa Ideal for: Families, Couples, Honeymooners, Weddings

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Relaxing India Beach Resort Hotels of Goa

THE PARK HYATT - Arossim Cansaulim, South Goa - 5* 7 nights From: £1305 per person based on 7 nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis in standard room, including return transfers This beautiful village-style resort sits in tranquil gardens punctuated with waterways and tropical lagoons and is popular for its relaxing atmosphere, luxurious accommodation and personal, welcoming service. Laze on the white-sand beach or take a dip in India’s largest swimming pool. Unwind in the award-winning spa learn to prepare local cuisine and try water sports, yoga, archery, tennis and beach volleyball. Located in the heart of the Park Hyatt is the Village Square comprising of speciality restaurants Da Luigi – the Italian Trattoria, Masala – North and South Indian cuisine, Casa Sarita – Goan speciality restaurant, Village Café – all day dining, Palms – beachside barbeque and grill, Praia de Luz – the lounge bar. There is also a Poolside bar, shops and a 40 seat cinema. Recreational activities include water sports, archery, gym, outdoor swimming pool, Camp Hyatt and Sereno Spa – a world renowned spa offering a range of holistic treatments.

Accommodation Type: • Park Room • Imperador Suite • Park King • Park Suite King • Park Twin • Vista Suite Accommodation Facilities: • Complimentary high speed internet access • Robes • 24-hour room service • Hairdryer • Morning newspaper • Tea/Coffee maker • Cable/ satellite TV channels • Dual analogue phone line with a two port modem • Dataport • In-room safe • 2 Bottles of Complimentary Mineral Water • Thermostat • Individual air conditioning control • Concierge • 32 inch LCD TV • Crib upon request • Iron/ironing board upon request • Maximum guests per room: 3 adults • Writing desk • Special welcome amenities Hotel Facilities/Features: • Water Sports • Horticulture Tour • Yoga Programme • Cooking with the Master Chefs • Outdoor and indoor sports • Pool • Camp Hyatt Fitness • sereno spa Location: Arossim Beach, Cansaulim.

Ideal for: Anyone with a taste for luxury away from the major resorts.

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Relaxing India Beach Resort Hotels of Goa

Accommodation Type: • Club Room • Club Suite • Club Pool Suite • Royal Villa • Presidential Suite Accommodation Facilities: • Sony HD LCD television with Blu-ray player • IDD phone • Broadband wireless high speed internet • Electronic safe • Ergonomic safe • A gourmet corner with fine selection of spirit • soft beverage and snacks • Tea & Coffee maker

The Leela Goa - Mobor Beach, South Goa - 5* 7 nights From: £1415 per person based on 7 nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis in standard room, including return transfers Stunning south Indian temple traditions and Portuguese heritage come together at this beautifully designed resort, where guests are spoilt with luxurious accommodation, fantastic facilities and a relaxing atmosphere. Beautiful 75-acre grounds lead to the beach, where you can try water sports or soak up the glorious sunshine.

Laze in the pool, indulge at the spa and try yoga and meditation.

There’s also a fitness centre, 12-hole golf course and floodlit tennis courts. Little ones will love the children’s pool and activity centre.

Dine in four restaurants serving a range of cuisines, sip nightcaps in two bars and dance the night away at the discotheque. There’s even a 24-hour casino.

Hotel Facilities/Features: • State-of-the-art business centre • Bespoke concierge service • Twelve hole par three golf course • Decadent in-room dining • Floodlit tennis courts • Premier spa and salon • Exciting entertainment lounge • Croquet and beach volleyball • Airport transfers • Baby cots and sitting service • Banquet and conference facilities • Boutique and souvenir shop • 24-hour business services • Car and limousine service • Children’s activity centre and pool Location: Mobor, Cavelossim Reason to Stay: Designed to reflect Portuguese and Indian heritage • Rooms are spacious and offer luxurious amenities and world class services • The Restaurant and the signature Jamavar have been designed by Jeffrey A. Wilkes, the principal designer of DESIGNWILKES Ideal for: Families, Couples, Honeymooners, Weddings

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Relaxing India Beach Resort Hotels of Goa

CARAVELA BEACH RESORT – Varca, Salcete, Goa - 5* 7 nights From: £990 per person based on 7 nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis in standard room, including return transfers The Ramada Caravela offers beachfront accommodation along Varca Beach in Goa. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, it features a golf course and water sports activities. Guests can enjoy massages at the spa or have a Yoga session by the beach. The Ramada Caravela Beach Resort has a fitness centre, table tennis facilities and a tennis court. A sauna and hot tub are available. The resort has a disco that provides a place for dancing, entertainment and drinks. Colourful rooms overlook the garden, pool or sea from the balcony.

They are fitted with a mini-bar and tea/coffee-making facilities. A safety deposit box is also provided.

Accommodation Type: • Standard Double or Twin Room • Superior Double or Twin Room • Deluxe Double or Twin Room • Deluxe Suite • Family Villa • Presidential Villa Accommodation Facilities: • Electronic key card • Self coded electronic safe • Individual temperature control • Smoke detector • Colour television, offering a choice of channels • Bath room, with shower and bath tub combination and full amenities • Hair dryer • Coffee and tea making facilities • Well stocked mini bar • IDD telephone facility, with voice mail • High speed internet connectivity • Round the clock in room dining.

Hotel Facilities/Features: • Discotheque • Hot Spots • Dolphin Tours • Spice Plantations • Water Sports • Golf • Tennie • Indoor Sports • Beach Activities • Ayurveda & Yoga • Wi-Fi free in the lobby area • Gymnasium • Swimming pool.

Location: The Ramada Caravela Beach Resort in Goa is located on Varca Beach and is around 35 km from the airport and 15 km from the nearest railway station.

Ideal for: Families, Couples and an excellent Weddings venue

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Relaxing India Beach Resort Hotels of Goa

Accommodation Type: • Garden Villa Rooms • Deluxe Twin Bedded Sea View Rooms • Luxury Rooms • Garden View Villa Rooms with a Plunge Pool • Sea Facing Villa Rooms with a Plunge Pool • Sunset View Villa Rooms with Plunge Pool Luxury Suites • Presidential Villas Accommodation Facilities: • Private balcony tea/coffee makers • Mini bar (chargeable) • Electronic safe • Direct dial telephones • Colour television with satellite programs • DVD players • Iron and ironing board • Hair dryer • All bathrooms have bathtubs with individual shower cubicles.

TAJ EXOTICA - Benaulim Beach, South Goa-5* 7 nights From: £1845 per person based on 7 nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis in standard room, including return transfers Located on the south-west coast of Goa, overlooking the Arabian Sea, this Mediterranean-style 5 star resort is one of the best five star hotels in Goa and has a way of slowing down time to a tranquil tempo. Built over 56 acres of land of which 45 are landscaped, the Taj Exotica has direct access to the beach, Taj Exotica is a showcase for relaxation with tropical-inspired design touches, grand architecture, a sun-drenched atrium, wide shady corridors, and flower lined patios. With 136 Rooms and 4 Suites, the resort is subtly divided into the main hotel building which houses Deluxe Rooms, Luxury Rooms, Luxury Suites, and charming villas which are either 2 or 4 room units. Some of the villas also have Private Plunge Pools.

2 Golf courses (9 hole putting green/9 hole executive both par 3), 2 Spas ( one with signature treatments & the other offering authentic Indian ayurveda), 2 Bars, 5 Restaurants (including the seasonal Lobster Shack), Tex Kids which offers educative and fun indoor as well as outdoor entertainment for kids during the day, are only some of the offerings which make Taj Exotica a favoured holiday destination. A Business Centre with a couple of small boardrooms helps you stay in touch with individual business needs. Wireless connectivity is available throughout the resort.

Hotel Facilities/Features: • Eugenia: Named after the first lady Goan Chef, this restaurant is a 24 hour eatery. Explore cuisines of the world, including authentic Indian fare and Jain food • Miguel Arcanjo: Vibrant colours, silver and glassware welcome you into the Miguel Arcanjo. Recently voted the Best Mediterranean restaurant by the Times Food Guide in Goa, this restaurant serves a variety of cuisines ranging from Lebanese, Italian, Moroccan etc.

• Li Bai: Named after a famous Chinese poet this restaurant, offers succulent flavours of the Orient with Sichuan, Canton and Hunan specialties. • Alegria: Alegria means fun and joy, and denotes the true spirit of Goa. A visit to Exotica is incomplete without a visit to Alegria, where one can succumb to the charms of old world architecture and the incredibly-fresh flavours of traditional Goan cuisine. You may be pleasantly surprised to find Masterchef Rego taking your order and preparing your favorite dishes. • Adega Cameons: One can unwind in the plush setting of this handsomely paneled lounge bar. A perfect atmosphere for sipping cognac, bite sized refreshments and more.

Tea totlers do not fear entering this bar, especially during the day, an aromatic display of tea and coffee awaits you. Choose from a tea and coffee menu, as well as a specially crafted menu by Goan Master Chef Urbano Rego for Afternoon Tea. • Lobster Shack: this informal speciality restaurant on the beach front, serves the choicest seafood grills and an impressive array of wines. Open from November to April.

Location: Benaulim Beach, South Goa Ideal for: Families, Couples, Honeymooners and an excellent venue for Weddings

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Nepal - Introduction Visiting Nepal: Nepal seems to have it all: magnificent snow capped mountains, tropical jungles, and a rich and varied history and culture.

Currency: Although Indian currency is valid in Nepal (at an official exchange rate of 1.60 Nepalese rupees to 1 Indian rupee), the Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 currency notes are not acceptable. Carrying 500 and 1000 Indian rupee notes is a punishable offence in Nepal. Be sure to keep all currency exchange and ATM receipts as they are required at the airport bank to convert back to your original currency. Foreign currencies must be exchanged only through the banks or authorized foreign exchange dealers.

Health: Compulsory vaccinations: Yellow fever certificate if arriving from infected areas. Recommended immunizations: Cholera, Diphtheria, Hepatitis ‘A’, Hepatitis ‘B’, Jap. B. Encephalitis, Polio, Rabies, Tuberculosis(TB), Tetanus, Typhoid Fever.

Climate: There are four climatic seasons: March–May (spring), June–August (summer), September–November (autumn) and December–February (winter).

Festival Itinerary: Nepal is known for its continuous festivals. Nepalese are said to observe more festivals than there are days in the year. Some of the major and interesting festivals are listed below: Navavarsha: The Nepalese New Year’s Day usually falls in the second week of April. i.e. the first day of Baisakh. The day is observed as a national holiday. The people celebrate it with great pomp and show. On this occasion, Bisket Jatra is held in the city of Bhaktapur.

Baisakh Poornima (April - May): As Nepal is the birthplace of Lord Buddha, the Lights of Asia, the triple anniversary of the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and death is observed with many colorful ceremonies on this day. People celebrate the occasion with great veneration paying homage to Buddha at places like Swayambhunath and Lumbini.

Required Clothing: Lightweight and tropical clothes with umbrella are advised for June to August. Between October and March, lightweight clothes are worn in Kathmandu, with a coat for evenings and warm clothing for the mountains.

Red Machchendranath Rath Jatra (May - June): This festival is the biggest socio-culture event of Patan. The wheeled chariot of the deity known as Bungdyo or red Machhendranath is prepared at Pulchowk, and dragged through the city of Patan in several stages till it reaches the prescribed destination (Lagankhel). The grand final of the festival is called “Bhoto Dekhaune”. A similar kind of chariot festival of Machhendranath (white) is also held in Kathmandu City in the month of March-April.

Time Difference: Nepal is 5.45 hours ahead of GMT.

Dumji: It is celebrated in Sherpa Settlements in the month of July.

Airport: Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu is the only international airport in Nepal. The national flag carrier, Nepal Airlines, and other international airlines directly connect Kathmandu with major cities around the world. Alternatively, you can travel to Nepal via India.

Gaijatra (Cow festival) (July - August): This carnival-type festival lasts eight days. Dancing, singing and comedy are its highlights. Those people whose family members have died during the years send out persons dressed up as a cow to parade the main streets through the city on the first day of the festival.

Road: Birgunj is the main entry point to Nepal for Indian tourists especially coming from Calcutta and Patna. Birgunj is about 210 kilometers away from Kathmandu.

Electricity: Power supply throughout is 230 volts.

Krishnastami (July - August): It marks the birthday of Lord Krishna, one of the incarnations of Lord Vishnu. On this day, an impressive ceremony at the Krishna Temple in Patan takes place.

Indrajatra (August - September): The festival of India, the god of rain, is observed with great enthusiasm in Kathmandu Valley. The chariot of Kumari, the living Goddess, is taken out in procession through the main street of Kathmandu. The festival is specially noted for the echoes of drums and dancing feet of the masked dancers almost every evening.

Dashain or Durga Puja (September - October): The Dashain festival is the most important festival of the Nepalese. It takes place some time in the month of September-October.

Visa Procedure: All foreign nationals, except Indians, need visas to enter Nepal. Multiple entry visas for 15 days (US$ 25 or equivalent convertible currency), 30 days (US$ 40) or 90 days (US$ 100) can be obtained from any Nepalese embassy or consulate. You can also get a visa on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport , Kathmandu or at the Immigration Office at the entry points of Nepal. Tourist visas can be extended for a period of 120 days at the Immigration.

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THE TWO VALLEYS IN NEPAL From £810.00 per person

Explore some of the most spectacular scenery in the world as you travel deep into Nepal’s mountainous countryside. There is an opportunity to create a truly memorable holiday memory with a flight to take in some incomparable views of Mount Everest.

3. Nagarkote

4-5. Pokhara

1-2. Kathmandu

6. Kathmandu

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a two night stay.

Day 2: Kathmandu. Full day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu. Also visit the famous Buddhist stupa of Swayambhunath perched on a hillock west of Kathmandu. Then onwards to the ancient city of Patan.

Day 3: Kathmandu - Nagarkote via Bhaktapur. Travel along winding roads to arrive at the tiny settlement of Nagarkote, situated at an altitude of 2,099m.

It is known for its scenic views of the mountain ranges including Mount Everest. En route visit Bhaktapur, home to medieval art and architecture. The past glories of the Malla rulers continue to be reflected at the Durbar Square.

Overnight at Nagarkote.

Day 4: Nagarkote - Pokhara. After breakfast drive to Pokhara for a two night stay. Drive along the scenic mountainous highway, visiting the Pokhara valley. Forming the backdrop are the spectacular Annapurnas massif and the magnificent fishtailed Machhapuchhre dominating the scenery. Adding to Pokhara’s enchantments are the three serene lakes of Phewa, Begnas, and Rupa, the World Peace stupa atop a hill, the deep Seti gorge, the Green canyon and Devin’s fall. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon with incomparable mountain views.

THE EVEREST EXPERIENCE From: £179 per person This hour-long flight gives the best opportunity to get closer and the best view of Mount Everest (weather permitting, 8,850m) and other mountains such as Shisa Pangma, Melungste, Gauri Shankar, Cho Oyu, Pumori, Nuptse, Lhotse & Ama Dablam. The flight operates from Kathmandu airport every morning and flies at an average altitude of 6,500 to 7,000m.

ROYAL CHITWAN NATIONAL PARK EXTENSION From: £362 per person Day 6: Pokhara to Chitwan National Park. Morning, drive to the Royal Chitwan National Park boundary where you will be met and driven to your jungle lodge. In the afternoon enjoy an elephant ride viewing the game.

Day 5: Pokhara. Morning at leisure. During the afternoon depart on a sightseeing tour of Pokhara city and Phewa lakeside bazaar.

Day 7: Chitwan National Park. Full day of jungle activities today. Try canoeing, enjoy a nature walk or embark on a safari.

Day 6: Pokhara - Kathmandu. Drive back to Kathmandu retracing the same highway. During the afternoon visit the Stupa of Bodhanath. The colossal Stupa is ringed by 108 images of Buddha and 147 insets containing prayer wheels. Then onwards to the famous temple of Pashupatinath.

Day 8: Drive to Kathmandu. Our services end upon arrival in Kathamandu.

Day 7: Depart Kathmandu. Transfer to Kathmandu airport and depart on your onward flight.

For inclusions - please check our website: www.travelpack.com

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THE ROYAL WALK IN THE HIMALAYAS From: £1079 per person

Trek category: Easy. Suitable for all age groups provided that participants are healthy and fit.

However please note, we can only operate a camping trek in this area, as there are no suitable teahouses along this route.

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a two night stay.

Day 2: Kathmandu. Full day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu. Also visit the famous Buddhist stupa of Swayambhunath perched on a hillock west of Kathmandu and the ancient city of Patan. (B) Day 3: Pokhara. Drive along a scenic mountain highway to Pokhara, famous for its mountains views, sub-tropical vegetation, and its springfed lakes. Rest of the day is free to explore the surroundings. Overnight in Pokhara. (B) Day 4: Thulkote (1,400m), 3-hr trek. Morning, sightseeing tour of Pokhara city with its colourful. After lunch, drive to Arghaun, the starting point of the trek. The trail passes through prime paddy fields before slowly winding uphill till the ridgeline is reached at Thulkote, the first night’s campsite. (B, D) Day 5: Lipeni (1,539m), 6-hr trek. A magnificent sunrise view of the entire Annapurna range awaits you in the morning. Today’s hike is a gentle walk along the ridge to arrive at Patale Bhanjyang for a lunch stop. Further walk uphill through small pine and rhododendron forests with a bird’s eye view of Dipang and Begnas lakes on the valley floor, arrive at Lipeni a small Gurung village. The campsite is located a little above Lipeni in a meadow offering a gorgeous views. (B, L, D) Day 6: Chisapani (1,520m), 5-hr trek. Morning possibility of exploring the village of Syaglung before setting off on the trail descending sharply to Chautara, for a lunch stop. The trail then winds uphill through grass meadows and scattered settlements then downhill till the check post

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where your trek permits will be checked. A further 40 minutes steep uphill brings one to the village of Chisapani, set up camp atop a small hillock, perhaps the best campsite on this route. (B, L, D) Day 7: Begnas (900m), 4-hr trek. After breakfast, a knee wobbling descent for a couple of hours will take you to the valley floor crossing a stream that feeds the Rupa lake. Walk along a small ridge that separates the Rupa and Begnas lakes. A short downhill walk through small fishing villages brings you to Begnas road. Drive to Pokhara for an overnight stay.

Afternoon at leisure. (B, L) Day 8: Pokhara to Kathmandu, (200 Km/6 hrs). After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu for an overnight stay. Afternoon at leisure. (B) Day 9: Depart Kathmandu. Transfer to Kathmandu airport and depart on your onward flight. (B) What’s Included: · Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis in Kathmandu and Pokhara · 4 Days/3Nights fully organized camping trek as per the itinerary on full board basis (starting with dinner and ending with lunch) with support of Sherpa guide, Sherpa cook, camping equipment, porters etc · Sightseeing tours and transfers as per the itinerary with English speaking local guide

TIBET THE ROOF OF THE WORLD

From: £2995 per person

This tour combines the best of Nepal and Tibet, countries that share spectacular scenery and similar cultures. Visit fabulous monasteries, view magnificent mountain landscapes and be beguiled by friendly and likeable locals.

Day 1: Arrive at Kathmandu Overnight: Hotel Himalaya/Hotel Shambala Day 2: Tour of Kathmandu, Swoyambhunath, Pashupatinath & Bodhnath (B) Overnight: Hotel Himalaya/Hotel Shambala.

Day 3: Full day sightseeing of Patan and Bhaktapur (B) Overnight: Hotel Himalaya/Hotel Shambala Day 4 (Saturday) : Fly Kathmandu / Lhasa (B) Overnight: Hotel Gangjian or Dekhang or similar Day 5/6: Lhasa (3,650m) (B) Overnight: Hotel Gangjian or Dekhang or similar Day 7: Drive Lhasa / Gyantse (3,950m) (261 Km/4-5 hrs) (B) Overnight: Hotel Gyantse or similar Day 8: Drive Gyantse / Shigatse (3,900m) (90 Km/45 mins-1 hour) visiting Shalu monastery en-route (B) Overnight: Hotel Shigatse or Hotel Mansorovar or similar Day 9: Drive Shigatse / Xegar (4,350m) visiting Shakya monastery en-route (5-6 hrs) (B) Overnight: Hotel Quomolungma or similar Day 10: Drive Xegar / Keyrong (2,500m) (220) Km/5-6 hrs) (B) Overnight: Hotel/Guest House in Keyrong Day 11: Drive Keyrong / Kathmandu (84 Km/6-7 hrs) (B) Overnight: Hotel Himalaya/Hotel Shambala Day 12: Departure transfer (B)

What’s Included: · Airfare in economy class Kathmandu to Lhasa Nepal Portion · 4 nights in Kathmandu on a bed & breakfast basis · Transfers and transportation as detailed in itinerary with an Englishspeaking local guide.

Tibet Portion: Accommodation on a bed & breakfast basis · Transfers and transport as detailed in the itinerary with an English speaking Tibetan guide using non air conditioned vehicle Tibet Visa Fee: US$ 85 nett per person (For Nationals other than Americans). The Visa fee will be collected directly in Kathmandu in US Dollars cash.

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BHUTAN INTRODUCTION

Airport: Paro (1 hr from city centre). Flights from Delhi or Calcutta (India) on Druk Air. Departure Tax: NU300 payable locally Road: The road from Bagdogara (West Bengal) enters Bhutan at Phuntsholing, which is 179 Km from Thimphu.

Electricity: Power supply throughout is 220 volts.

Visiting Bhutan: travellers must travel through all-included preplanned/booked package tours. Independent travel is not permitted in Bhutan.

Currency: 1 Ngultrum (NU) = 100 chetrum (Ch). The Ngultrum is pegged to the Indian Rupee (which is also accepted as legal tender). US Dollars are also widely accepted.

Health: Compulsory vaccinations: Yellow fever certificate if arriving from infected areas. Recommended immunizations: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, malaria, meningitis, polio, TB, tetanus, typhoid. Health risks: Malaria exist all the year in the southern districts.

Climate: Bhutan has four seasons. Monsoon June and August (8° and 21°C). Temperatures drop dramatically with increases in altitude. Days are pleasant (average 10°C) with clear skies and sunshine. Nights are cold particularly in winter. Generally, October, November and April to mid- June are the best times to visit, rainfall is low and temperatures pleasant.

Required Clothing: Lightweight cottons in the foothills, also linens and waterproof gear, light sweaters and jackets for the evenings. Upland areas: woollens for evenings, particularly during the winter months.

Time Difference: Bhutan is six hours ahead of GMT.

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Festival Itinerary: Many visitors come to Bhutan to witness religious festivals held annually in Dzongs throughout the country.

The most popular are those held in Thimpu, Paro & Bumthang. The Dzongs come to life with colour, music & dancing as valley dwellers and towns folk join together to exercise evil spirits and rejoice in a new harvest. Rare masked & sword dances and other rituals are performed in the Dzong’s courtyards & temples. Most of the dances date back to the middle ages and are only performed once or twice each year.

Festivals: Feb: Punakha Festival, Punakha Chorten Kora, Tashi Yangtse March: Gom Kora, Tashi Yangtse, Chukka Festival, Chimakoti, Paro Festival, Paro April: Ura Yakchoe, Bumthang, Kurjey Festival, Bumthang Sep-Oct: Wangdi Tshechu, Wangdi Phodrang October: Thimphu Domche, Thimphu, Thimphu Tshechu, Thimphu Tamshing Phala Chodpa Bumthang, Tangbi Mani (Bumthang), Bumthang November: Jambay Lhakhang Drub, Bumthang Jakar Tshechu, Bumthang December: Trashigang Festival, Tashigang Mongar Tshechu, Mongar Trongsa Festival, Trongsa Lhuntsi Festival, Lhuntsi Visa Procedure: IMPORTANT All foreign nationals require visa for Bhutan. Before departure Visa Clearance from Thimphu must be obtained before departing for Bhutan. A completed Visa Form must be returned to our office at least 65 days prior to arrival in Bhutan (earlier if travelling during festival dates). Holidays must be paid in full before the Visa Clearance can be processed. Once processed a Visa Clearance Approval will be forwarded to you before departure.

Upon arrival at Paro Airport you will be required to submit: • 2 passport photographs • Visa Clearance Approval • $20 visa fee A visa stamp will be issued at the entry point for the duration of the stay.

MYSTICAL WESTERN BHUTAN From £1999.00 per person

Bhutan or ‘Druk Yul’ (Mythical Land of the Peaceful Dragon) is as much known for its dramatic landscapes, architecture and biodiversity as it is for its rich and colourful culture.

Explore a land of wonders as you travel through Bhutan’s mountainous terrain meeting deeply religious and peaceful locals who preserve a spiritual heritage.

1. Delhi

2. Paro

3. Thimphu

4. Sangaygang

What’s Included: · Airfare for the sector Delhi / Paro / Delhi · Accommodation as per the itinerary · All meals in Htls (some lunches en route) · All transfers and sightseeing as per the itinerary by non air-conditioned vehicle · English speaking accompanying guide · Government Royalty / Taxes · Entrance Fees · Bhutan Visa Fee · Normally AC is not needed in Bhutan

5. Punakha

6. Paro

7. Delhi Day 1: (Mon, Thur or Sat) Depart Delhi by Druk Air for Paro (2,134m).

On arrival you will be met and transferred to Paro for a 2-night stay.

The drive takes you through picturesque Paro valley with its quaint clusters of hamlets amid terraced paddy fields. (Druk Air operates flights into Paro from Delhi and Calcutta).

Day 2: Paro. Full day sightseeing of Paro. Hike to Taktsang Monastery’s viewpoint, the monastery clings seemingly impossible to a cliff of rock at 914m above the valley floor. Drive to Drugyel Dzong or the Fort of Drukpa Victory (14km from Paro). En route visit Kyichu Lhakhang and Satsam Chorten. Continue onwards to Ta Dzong, the National Museum and one of the most celebrated Dzongs (old fortress) in Bhutan, the Rinpung Dzong, or the Fortress of the Heap of Jewels.

Day 3: Paro to Thimphu (2,286). Drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital built in traditional Bhutanese style. Visit the Memorial Chorten, built in 1974 in the loving memory of Late His Majesty, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, exhibits a multi-storied stupa and numerous paintings providing a rare insight into Buddhist philosophy.

Day 4: Thimphu. Drive up to the viewpoint- BBS Tower in Sangaygang. Visit Mini Zoo where you can see Takin, the National animal of Bhutan. The National Library, which holds a vast collection of ancient Buddhist manuscripts; the School of Thangkha paintings (The Arts and Crafts School), General Post Office and the Handicraft Emporium.

Day 5: Thimphu to Punakha. The first stop after leaving Thimphu is Dochula Pass at 10,500 ft. (23km from Thimphu), visit ‘Druk Wangyal Khangzang Chortens’, a unique cluster of 108 Namgyal Khangzang Chortens, Punakha Dzong (limited to the courtyard) and Chimi Lhakhang monastery situated on a hillock.

Day 6: Punakha to Paro via Wangdue Phodrang,154 Km/5 3/4 hrs.

Visit Wangdue valley, located on a ridge that plunges into the Puna Tsang River flowing below. Continue onwards to Paro, en route you will pass by Semtokha Dzong built in 1629 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.

Day 7: (Sun, Wed or Fri) Depart Paro by Druk Air for Delhi. After an early breakfast at the hotel, you be transferred to the airport to board your onward flight.

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Sri Lanka Introduction A stunningly beautiful, 270 mile long tear-drop shaped island, hanging from the southern tip of Indian subcontinent amidst the waters of the Indian Ocean. The coastline is adorned with palm trees which front the expansive stretches of beach, interspersed with rocky promontories on which many of the fine resort hotels are located. The main resort areas are located on the Western side of the island, immediately above the capital, Colombo, and extending down below the city limits along the coastline towards and beyond the ancient fortress city of Galle. Sri Lanka is home to some of the World’s finest ancient, archaeological and historical sites, most of which dates back over 2,500 years.

Both scenery and culture can be easily incorporated and combined within a compact touring itinerary, spread over 5 or 6 days.

Places to Visit Cultural Experience - Sri Lanka presents a fascinating insight into a civilization with over 2,000 years of recorded history.

With no less than seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a tour of the Cultural Triangle is highly recommended; from the impressive cave temples of Dambulla Rock to the moats and ramparts of the 5th Century rock-top palace complex at Sigiriya.

Safaris - A safari to one of the 12 National Parks offers the chance to see some of the 92 mammals that inhabit Sri Lanka. Yala National Park has the highest concentration of leopards in the World and although Uda Walawe is famous for its elephants, Minneriya National Park boasts the awesome dry season “Gathering”, in which herds of the giant mammal congregate to drink the region’s remaining water.

Eco-Tourism - The natural World Heritage Site of Sinharaja Forest Reserve is one of Sri Lanka’s last remaining tracts of tropical rainforest, home to more than 50 per cent of the island’s endemic species of mammals and butterflies.

Cuisine - Eating in Sri Lanka is an experience in itself, with national dishes offering a selection of fine offerings, similar in style to both Indian and Thai cuisine. Hotels in Sri Lanka offer international cuisine and fresh seafood is found in abundance throughout the island.

Restaurants in the major towns and resort areas offer both local and international options.

Climate - Sri Lanka enjoys a year round tropical climate with an

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average coastal temperature of 27°C. The central hills are cooler with temperatures dropping to 14°C. The south-western monsoon brings rain to the western, southern and central regions from May to July. Seas may be choppy during this period and may not be safe for swimming. The north-eastern monsoon occurs in the north and east between December and January. December to April is the peak whalewatching season in the south of the island, when both blue whales and sperm whales may be seen. In June, the attention switches to the eastern port of Trincomalee, where blue and sperm whales are observed even closer to land. Kalpitiya, a narrow peninsula north of Colombo, is good for dolphins year-round, too.

Language The official languages are Sinhala and Tamil. English is spoken in tourist areas.

Passports & Visas British nationals require a visa for trips to Sri Lanka, and a passport valid for more than six months from the date of arrival Health A valid yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from all travellers who have passed through a partly or wholly infected area within the preceding six days. Protection against malaria is recommended for travel to certain endemic areas. Please always check with your GP. Currency Sri Lankan Rupee Time GMT + 5.5

Highlights of North Eastern Sri Lanka From: £895 per person

Skirting the North Eastern Coast of Sri Lanka, this tour combines the vibrant culture with beautiful coastal scenery and stunning off shore islands with a myriad of marine and bird life.

1. Negombo

2-4. Trincomalee

8-9. Seeduwa

5-7. Jaffna

Day 1: Airport – Negombo. On arrival at the airport you will by greeted by your chauffeur guide and transferred to your hotel in Negombo. Enjoy the rest of the day relaxing at the hotel. Overnight in Negombo.

Day 2: Negombo – Trincomalee. This morning after breakfast, you will travel to Trincomalee. On arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure by the beach. Overnight in Trincomalee.

Day 3: Trincomalee. Today you will enjoy a tour of the port city of Trincomalee, including the harbour, Swami Rock and the natural springs of Kanniya. It is also home to the Thirukonesvaram Kovil, one of the oldest Hindu temples in Sri Lanka. Overnight in Trancomalee.

Day 4: Pigeon Island Excursion. After breakfast you will head to Pigeon Island for a full day excursion. The island is a renowned nesting ground for the native endangered Blue Rock Pigeon. The national park boasts of the best remaining coral reefs in Sri Lanka. Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities on the island. Sea turtles such as Hawksbill turtle, Green turtle and Olive Ridley migrate the coral reef. Juvenile and adult Blacktip reef shark can be seen around the shallow coral areas.

Overnight in Trincomalee Day 5: Trincomalee – Jaffna. After breakfast you will transfer to Jaffna.

On arrival check in at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Jaffna.

Day 6: Jaffna. This morning you will take a city tour of Jaffna, including visits to the 15th Century Nallur Kovil also known as the Kandaswamy Temple, the Jaffna Library and Museum, the bustling Main Street and the grand old Dutch Fort of Jaffna. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. Overnight in Jaffna.

Day 7: Jaffna. After breakfast spend the morning visiting the historic temples of Jaffna and Delft Island. You will transfer to the jetty to take a 30 minute boat trip to the Island of Nainative to visit the Naagadeepa Temple and the Hindu Kovil. On your return to the mainland you will visit the Hindu Temple at Keerimale and take a dip in the temples’ sacred ponds. Men and women have to use different parts of the pond... the rejuvenating dip in the special pond along with the many local devotees will be an interesting experience. The rest of the day will be at leisure.

Overnight in Jaffna.

Day 8: Jaffna – Seeduwa. This morning you have an early start as you travel to Seeduwa. On arrival at your hotel, enjoy the evening at leisure.

Overnight in Seeduwa.

Day 9: Seeduwa – Airport. Tour ends. After breakfast checkout of the hotel and proceed to the airport in time for your flight home.

What’s Included: • Accommodation on a Bed and Breakfast basis • Transport in an A/C vehicle with the services of an English speaking chauffeur guide • Entrance fees to the following Sites: • Nallur Temple • Dutch Museum • Dutch Fort • Nagadeepa • Keerimalee

Based on 2 persons travelling together sharing a double or twin room

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Sri Lanka Cultural Tour

3. Sigiriva

From: £1035 per person

Sri Lanka is land of contrasts, rich in culture, with a colourfully expressive people and a vibrant history, it is also a land of verdant forests, lush plantations and offers an abundance of flora and fauna. This tour takes

2. Pinnawala

you into the heart of Sri Lankan culture and its vnatural wonder, offering you the chance to feed baby elephants, explore Royal Palaces and ancient temples, and maybe sample some of the spices which have made this Island state such a magnate for traders throughout history.

1. Negombo

Day 1: Negombo. On arrival at the airport you will by greeted by your chauffeur guide and transferred to your hotel in Negombo. Enjoy the rest of the day relaxing at the hotel. Overnight in Negombo.

Day 2: Negombo – Pinnawala – Habarana. An early start today, after breakfast, travel to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage arriving just after 9am to witness the bathing and bottle feeding of the baby elephants.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – Set amongst the verdant hills of Kegalle is a unique orphanage. This is the world’s first and only elephant orphanage established to feed, nurse and house young elephants lost or abandoned by their mothers. Other occupants are elephants displaced from their natural environs by development projects or those found wounded. Visitors can see the baby elephants being fed milk from gigantic feeding bottles or bathed in the river which flows nearby – an unforgettable sight! Established in 1975, by the Wildlife Department and National Zoological gardens which subsequently led to a breeding programme through which more than twenty five elephants have been born since 1984. Afterwards, transfer to your hotel in Habarana. Overnight in Habarana.

Day 3: Habarana – Sigiriya – Polonnaruwa - Habarana. This morning you will visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of Sri Lanka’s major attractions, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The most impressive facets of the unique complex are the Water Gardens, the Frescoes of beautiful maidens, the Mirror Wall with ancient graffiti, the Lion platform and the Summit of 1.6 hectares, which was completely covered by buildings during the period of Sigiriya’s glory. In the afternoon you will proceed to the medieval city of Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlight are the

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4-6. Kandy

7. Yala

8-9. Beruwela

Royal Palace complex including the Kings Palace and Audience Hall, the Quadrangle, and the spectacular Gal Vihare complex of four massive images of the Buddha, cut from a single slab of granite. The Temples of Shiva, intricate statues of Hindu Gods, fascinating Budhist temples, the Lankatileka and Watadage, the Galpotha, the Lutus bath, the Kiri Vihare Dagoba and the remains of a former Temple of the Tooth are other impressive sights. Later this afternoon, return to Habarana. Overnight in Habrana.

Day 4: Habarana – Kandy. After breakfast you will travel to Kandy, visiting a Spice Garden in Matale and the Rock Cave Temple in Dambulla en route.

On arrival in Kandy in the afternoon, check in at your hotel and enjoy a cultural dance performance. Overnight in Kandy.

Day 5: Kandy. Enjoy a full day in Kandy. You will take a tour of the Royal Botanical Gardens, followed by a sightseeing tour of Kandy including a visit to the Kandy Temple. There will be some free time for shopping and independent exploration of the sights that Kandy has to offer. Overnight in Kandy.

Day 6: Kandy – Nuwara Eliya. After breakfast you will travel to Nuware Eliya, Sri Lanka’s premier hill resort. En route you will stop off at Ramboda Falls, and as Nuwara Eliya is the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country, producing some of the world’s best teas, you will have the chance to sample them while visiting a tea factory/plantation. On arrival check in at your hotel

before conducting a sightseeing tour of Nuwara Eliya. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.

Day 7: Nuwara Eliya – Yala. After breakfast proceed to Yala. Yala West National Park is located to the southeast of the island and is well recognized as one of the best parks in the world to observe and photograph leopards. There is also a substantial elephant population along with spotted deer, sambar, wild buffalo, sloth bear, jackal, mongoose, pangolins and crocodiles. The bird life comprises over 120 species, and ranges from lesser flamingos to paradise flycatchers, crested hawk eagles, and black bitterns. On arrival, check in at your hotel. This evening you will conduct a 4x4 Jeep Safari at Yala National Park. Overnight in Yala.

Day 8: Yala – Galle - Beruwela. This morning after breakfast, you will travel to Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city where the Portuguese first landed in Sri Lanka in 1505, including a visit to Galle Fort. Captured and fortified by the Dutch who ruled maritime Sri Lanka in the 17th and 18th century, the city still retains an air of old Holland with Old Dutch churches and well preserved Old Dutch houses.

This afternoon you will continue on to Beruwela, where upon check in at your hotel you can relax at leisure by the beach for the rest of the afternoon. Overnight in Beruwela Day 9: Beruwela – Airport. Tour ends. After breakfast checkout of your hotel and transfer to the airport in time for your homeward flight.

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Heritance Hotels

Heritance Kandalama

Heritance Ahungalla

From £105 per person per night on a Full-Board Basis

From £120 per person per night on a Full-Board Basis

Weave a little magic into your beach holiday at Heritance Ahungalla.

Golden sands on a pristine beach beckon you to soak up the sun equipped with 152 well appointed rooms that afford breathtaking views of a golden sun sinking into the ultramarine Indian Ocean.

Tantalize your taste buds with an array of eclectic cuisine prepared to perfection.

Heritance Kandalama, simply, has to be experienced… every aspect of it is a seamless, endless entity where a blend of unspoilt nature and civilization, co-exist in amazing amity. Flanked by two UNESCO world heritage sites-the Dambulla Rock Temple and the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the 152 room property has been recognized the world over for its sustainable practices.

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Heritance Tea Factory

From ÂŁ109 per person per night on a Full-Board Basis Heritance Tea Factory is the only tea factory in the world to be converted into a 54 room hotel with panoromic views of verdant organic tea plantations. Dine at the highest elevation in Sri Lanka in a converted railway carriage or pluck your own tea and have it processed to take home as a souvenir.

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Cinnamon Hotels Sri Lanka Cinnamon Wild Yala

Chaaya Village Habarana

Chaaya Village Habarana 4* From £65 per person per night on a Full-Board Basis

Cinnamon Wild Yala 4* From £89 per person per night on a Full-Board Basis Named as a tribute to the surrounding milieu of the Yala National Park which houses the highest density of leopards in Asia, Cinnamon Wild Yala sits adjacent to the park boundary and could very rightfully be positioned as an extension of the park. A property that was first established in 2002 as an eco-friendly resort for wildlife enthusiasts visiting the Yala National Park, Cinnamon Wild Yala opened its doors after an extensive re-construction and refurbishment as a world-class game lodge, conceptualizing the unique architectural features of the ‘Wild’ into its rustic exteriors and luxurious interiors.

The main restaurant offers a variety of both Eastern and Western delicacies. The main bar faces the villu, where guests could enjoy their favourite local or international beverage over a friendly conversation and also offers a range of snacks and fresh fruit juices. The observation deck bar situated on the top floor of the hotel not only offers drinks to quench one’s thirst, it also offers a 360° view of the forest and the Indian Ocean.

Designed to four star accommodation standards, the chalets are spacious and enjoy an almost 360 degree view of scrub jungle, located well away from the public spaces to give ample privacy but nevertheless in close proximity for fellowship and gatherings if needed. The rustic luxury of the well-appointed rooms will surely transcend your expectations and many lucky visitors have seen leopards on the rocks which border the hotel.

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The Chaaya Village Habarana lies sprawled across 27 acres of luxuriant land bordering a stunning lake. Habarana is situated 176 km from Colombo in the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle and is part of the Anuradhapura District. The hotel’s cozy cottages, inspired by the typical thatched roof huts found locally, lie in clusters with low roofs and brownish yellow exteriors. The paint used is specially mixed with mud, in true native fashion, to ensure the facade is in harmony with nature.

The forever-sunny weather often beckons guests outside on to the terrace by the unique Infinity Swimming pool where they enjoy romantic dinners or sip cocktails seated ankle deep in water. Upon special request Chaaya Village graciously permits guests to have meals by the lake, up in a romantic tree-hut, in the privacy of the veranda, in the shade of a tree or even in the barbeque hut in the garden. Hidden away in one secluded corner of the property are the badminton, tennis and volleyball courts. Closer to the lake with a view of the pool is the cricket pitch. Any one of these games can leave a guest wanting to visit the Aryuveda Health Centre, located on the left side of the property, for a touch from nature to rejuvenate body and spirit. The hotel has a restaurant, bar and coffee shop. All 108 Rooms are fully air conditioned and feature Cable TV, coffee & tea making facilities, hair dryer, mini bar, safety deposit box and attached bathrooms.

Room Types Superior (94 rooms) - Comfortable village-style dwellings blending tradition with modern facilities spread within acres of lush gardens and sweeping lawns. Deluxe (12 rooms) - Elegantly designed accommodations under a canopy of trees, facing the shimmering lake. Additional features include DVD player, iron & board, bathrobe & slippers, open shower and bathtub. King Fisher Lodge (1 Suite) - Set in a secluded location a few feet away from the lake, this exclusive suite is built several feet above ground level offering an amazing up close and personal view of the glistening waters. Eagle Lodge (1 Suite) - Set in the middle of the garden offering a view of the lake, this one-of-a-kind suite is built with a large sitting area that is perfect to entertain friends or sit back and relax.

Chaaya Tranz Hikkaduwa

Chaaya Tranz Hikkaduwa 4* From £69 per person per night on a Full-Board Basis The Story of “Tranz”. Trance is a genre of music that is a mix of feel good dance tunes with a lot of repetitive beats and phrases, the music combined with very bright colours is used to create a euphoric sensation. This type of music is endemic to Hikkaduwa. With its lively people, its colourful surroundings Chaaya Tranz Hikkaduwa will not so much be a reflection of the biological as much as it would mirror its social and cultural environment.

The Master Stroke and Pallet. The resort design was reconceptualized to keep with the current reality of Hikkaduwa as an engaging and transformational seaside holiday. The hotel reflects the easy going, engaging style that could perhaps transport the holidaymaker into an alternate state of consciousness.

Hotel Facilities and Services A selection of dining venues, the main restaurant, speciality crab restaurant, pool restaurant and coffee shop. A Lounge and pool bar that offers a wide array of local and international spirits; a roof-top spa facility, banquet hall and conference facility (80 pax). Moreover the hotel houses a fresh water swimming pool, PADI certified dive centre and an excursion counter. The Hotel accommodates 150 rooms decorated with mosaics of colour, rattan furniture and soft linens. All rooms are fully air conditioned and feature cable TV, coffee & tea making facilities, hair dryer, mini bar, safety deposit box and attached bathrooms. All rooms have its own private balcony that opens out to a beautiful view of the Indian Ocean.

Superior rooms (140) It’s the perfect getaway for relaxation, with breathtaking views from the balcony overlooking the Indian ocean.

The rooms are available in four floors and are outfitted with a range of amenities. Deluxe rooms These spacious rooms equipped with king sized beds are located on the either sides of the first and second floors offering two different views of the azure ocean. Middle Suites (2 ) Luxurious comfort embedded in a spacious room interconnected with a superior room, ideal for families. The living area and bedroom of the suite with pristine interiors and plush living spaces are bound to tranzform you.

Corner Suites (4) This room has two beautiful views of the ocean and surrounds units of space, comfort and luxury equipped with a Jacuzzi and large living area and pantry. The perfect holiday getaway.

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Concierge Services

Travelpack offers a 24-hour-7-days-a-week service, so we are there for you whenever you need us. We don’t just offer travel services either, we can go that extra mile and help you make your trip more special and more memorable.

Event Planning & Production Planning an event or party? We will assist in arranging gatherings, from an intimate cocktail party to a ballroom reception! Our team of dedicated staff will assist with venue selection and planning the perfect event. Please contact our Concierge Department with your requirements, proposed budget and the estimated number of guests.

Nightclub Access Need recommendations for a club/lounge to visit on your vacation? Our city specialists will be pleased to recommend the best clubs/bars for your night out and once selected we will try to secure entry at your preferred venue on your requested date.

Note that space is limited at most high demand locations and requests should be made well in advance of arrival.

Restaurant Reservations and Recommendations Need recommendations for a restaurant on your trip for a special occasion or business meeting – then our city specialists will be happy to recommend the best restaurants and try to make reservations on your behalf.

Note that space is limited at most high demand locations and requests should be made well in advance of arrival.

Tickets to Events and Shows Need hard to find tickets for an event or show. Our staff are ready to assist you – and whilst we are not able to obtain tickets to every event, we have access to a wide range of ticket sources. Note that in some cases the tickets offered might be priced higher than the retail price.

So what ever you need – always ask if we can help!

Service fees may apply for some services – these will be advised at the time of enquiry.

Email: concierge@travelpack.com

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Private Jet Hire Private jet charter is the ultimate in sophistication, service and convenience for the discerning international traveller and for small groups travelling together it can work out reasonably priced.

As a specialist in aviation, Travelpack can offer a selection of memorable Private Jet Charter travel experiences, each of which is carefully and expertly tailored to your individual needs and requirements, no matter how detailed and finite the requirements.

Benefits include the complete flexibility of private terminal facilities in both the UK and India with the inbuilt knowledge and advantage of knowing that you are only minutes away from departure on the one-hand and a seamless, trouble-free arrival on the other. You also have the added bonus of being able to select exactly which destination you wish to fly to and when, saving the most precious commodity of all - your time!

Sumptuous jets and helicopters with first-class seating arrangements and personalised in-flight services designed to accommodate your every need are just a phone call away.

Travelpack are able to offer you Private Jet Hire both ex-UK and throughout the Indian sub-continent. We enjoy completely unbiased relationships with a vast network of suppliers offering national and international networks, completely bespoke and individualised services, along with the most competitive rates available anywhere.

Contact us now for full details of our bespoke private aviation service – and we’ll design an experience just for you!

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Travel Tips & Useful Information PRE-DEPARTURE FORMALITIES VISA AND PASSPORT You will need a passport (with a minimum of six months validity before expiration) and appropriate visas to enter India and Nepal. You will need multiple entry visas if you are returning to India from Nepal for onward flights. We can assist you in processing your India Visa application for a small service charge.

Should you wish to obtain your own visa we will furnish you with the necessary forms, which you may process directly.

MEDICAL INFORMATION No compulsory inoculations are required if you are arriving from the United States, Canada or Europe. If you are entering from Africa or parts of Latin America, certification of Yellow Fever inoculation is required. General recommendations for travellers to India are: Anti-malarial medications • Tetanus • GammaGlobulin • Viral Meningitis inoculations For further information contact your GP. PREPARING FOR YOUR TRIP BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE Check with your International carrier regarding specific baggage allowance. If you book your flights with us we will advise you of the baggage allowance for your flights. Please note that if you are transferring onto a domestic carrier that your baggage allowance may differ for your International and Domestic flights. If in any doubt please check with one of our travel experts.

CLOTHING Dress informally while on your holiday. Carry lightweight clothes that can be laundered easily. Depending on the standard of restaurant, gentlemen may be required to wear a blazer or suit and ladies may feel more comfortable in evening wear. In North India during winter, you will need light woollens, sweaters, a light jacked and woollen wrap. Dress in layers, so you can remove clothing during the warmth of the day when the temperatures average 70 degrees. From March onwards summer clothes are appropriate everywhere except in mountains regions. In South India the weather is hot and humid. Light cotton clothes are most comfortable. Ladies should remember that the Indian Subcontinent is conservative.

Avoid mini-shorts, miniskirts and low backed sun dresses in public, particularly in the smaller towns. Trousers and Bermuda length shorts are perfectly acceptable. Note: In Goa – holiday wear is acceptable on beaches and in most tourist destinations.

USEFUL ITEMS TO TAKE ON YOUR TRIP Personal toiletries • Prescription medications with their generic names • Flashlight • Insect repellent – although this is easily purchased locally. • Face towels (smaller establishments may not be adequately supplied) • Wet wipes • A small insulated flask for hot and cold drinks • Plastic cups and straws • Facial tissue and an extra roll of toilet tissue • Swimsuit • hat • sunglasses • sun block • Comfortable walking

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shoes • Slipper socks - the kind that airlines hand out. You will need them at all the temples.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE There are strict regulations with regards to taking rupees into and out of India. It is recommended that you visit the currency exchange desk at the arrival airport to change enough money to keep you going for a few days as the rates charged may be more than those available at banks. You can also exchange money at hotels in all major cities at the Government fixed rate of exchange. Cash can also be withdrawn from many bank-cashdispensers if your card displays the VISA or Mastercard logos (please note that charges will apply). Major credit cards are accepted at city hotels and most shops. This Visa / Mastercard are more popular than American Express. Small places and bazaars will accept Rupees cash only. Obtain small denominations for tips etc.

The Indian notes are well thumbed and worn, and when getting cash you will often get a pack of 100 bills stapled together. Ask for help in detaching these as they can be a source of great frustration. Do not accept torn bills when changing money, some shopkeepers might refuse to accept them. At the time of printing, the pound is equivalent to approximately 100 Rupees. There is 100 paisa in a Rupee. * Each time you change your money at a Bank or hotel or Bureau De Change insist on a receipt known as “encashment certificate”. *On your departure day we would suggest that you spend excess Rupees where possible or exchange at a currency exchange desk at the departure airport.

ATM’s There are ATM’s at branches of all major banks INTERNET ACCESS This is easily available now all over India, though not always high speed lines.

The hotel business centres are reliable and most hotels can arrange internet connection in your room for laptops.

FOOD Each Indian state has its own history, culture and food. To stay healthy keep to a diet of fresh cooked vegetables, rice and Indian breads. Sample the: Regional vegetarian cuisines • Grilled Tandoori food • In coastal areas try the fresh coconut water, it is safe, cooling and delicious • Freshly ground South Indian coffee.

HEALTH PRECAUTIONS One should drink bottled water only and regularly to avoid dehydration.

Do not use ice. Eat cooked meals, avoid green salads. Do not buy food at street stalls. Eat fruit that you can peel yourself. Avoid seafood except in coastal areas. Local beer, wine, and soda are safe. If an unexpected medical problem should arise, contact your hotel doctor.

ELECTRICITY Voltage in India is 220v/50 cycles.

You will need UK plug adapters. Only round pin plugs are used in India. You can purchase these at any airport.

BUSINESS HOURS Shops and offices are generally open from 10:00am to 6:00pm with a break for lunch between 1:00pm and 2:00pm Monday to Saturday.

GRATUITIES/TIPS The following are suggested guidelines based on 2 persons travelling together. For exemplary service please tip at your discretion, bearing in mind that the amounts listed are approximate and the bare minimum.

Porters: Airports and railway stations: Rs 80 per bag.

Drivers: Rs 450 - 550 per day depending upon the number of days a particular driver would have spent with you during your trip.

Bell Boys: Rs 80 per bag.

Restaurants: It is normal in India to leave 10% - 15% of the bill amount as tip for the waiters at the restaurants.

Guide: Rs 650 per day for local and approx Rs. 900 for accompanying escort.

BEGGING The governments ask that you do not give handouts to beggars. Make a contribution at a Temple, Mosque or charity instead if you wish.

INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT DEPARTURE TAX Please note: This is included in your airlines ticket.

ITEMS TO CONSIDER Make sure you have signed, valid passport and visas, if required. Also, before you go, fill in the emergency information page of your passport! Read the consular Information Sheets (and Public Announcements or Travel Warnings, If applicable) for countries you plan to visit. Leave copies of your itinerary, passport data page and visas with family or friends at home, so that you can be contacted in case of an emergency.

Make sure you have insurance that will cover your emergency medical needs whilst you are overseas.

Familiarise yourself with local laws and customs of the countries to which you are travelling.

Remember, whilst in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws! Do not leave your luggage unattended in public areas and never accept packages from strangers. While abroad avoid using illicit drugs or drinking excessive amount of alcoholic beverages or associating with people who do so. Do not become a target for thieves by wearing conspicuous clothing and expensive jewellery and do not carry excessive amounts of cash or unnecessary credit cards. Deal only with authorised agents when exchanging money or purchasing art or antiques in order to avoid violating local laws. When overseas, avoid demonstrations and other situations that may become unruly.

INSURANCE We recommend that all travellers to India arrange adequate insurance cover against accident, health hazard, missed flight connections, loss of baggage etc. for the entire journey prior to their arrival in India.

BOOKINGS A deposit of £125 per person or 15% of the holiday cost whichever is greater or any supplier specified deposit is required with

each completed booking form plus the travel insurance premium. Bookings made 8 weeks or less prior to the commencement date of the holiday require full payment made at the time of booking. We do accept late bookings.

Any additional charges will be at the client’s expense, even if it is impossible, finally, to confirm the arrangements SPECIAL REQUESTS Should you have any special requests, such as specific rooms, seats, or meals on flights, please ensure that details of these are passed on at the time of booking. Please note that whilst all requests are passed on to the supplier, these are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed.

UNUSED SERVICES/REFUNDS There are no refunds on partly used escorted tours. Refunds should be reclaimed within 4 weeks of returning to the UK. A £25 administration fee will be levied on unused hotel vouchers. Passengers who cancel hotel reservations while travelling will incur a £25 processing fee in addition to any hotel cancellation fees which may apply.

This processing fee will be deducted from any refunds of which you are entitled.

HOTEL RESERVATIONS For clients who are purchasing only hotel accommodation from us for a duration of less than five nights. An administration charge of £25 per package may be charged (this does not apply if you are also purchasing flights or tour packages).

HOTEL RATINGS All the hotels featured in the brochure have been specially selected to provide quality and good value for money.

HOTEL ROOMS Except where stated, the hotels and resorts shown in this brochure hold rooms on a ‘run of house’ basis. This means you may be allocated a room in any part of the property.

Please check with reservations for check-in/ check-out time for your chosen hotel. Room images displayed in the brochure will not necessarily reflect the room type booked.

DOUBLE & TWIN ACCOMMODATION These are based on sharing twin-bedded accommodation, with an extra roll-away bed. Some luxury hotels do not provide triple or quad accommodation.

CHILDREN Discounts for children differ for airlines, hotels and tours. Quotations are available on request, if not stated in the brochure.

SECURITY DEPOSITS Please note that there may be instances that a security deposit is payable by credit card or in cash locally on some types of accommodation shown within this brochure.

TRAVEL BY AIR Any flight inclusive packages booked are based upon scheduled flights operated by airlines who are members of IATA, the International Air Transport Association.

All passengers travel under the conditions of carriage of the airline concerned, details of which are printed on their ticket. As an alternative you may be offered a Charter. Any flight information provided, is subject to change.

Any such change will not be a ‘significant’ change’ entitling you to cancel or change to

other holiday arrangements without paying our normal charges. The flight timings given on booking are for guidance only and are subject to change. Up-to-date flight times (which are also subject to change) will be shown on your ticket.

Please ensure you check them immediately upon receipt for this information.

to pursue a complaint without giving the supplier the opportunity to rectify the problem when it occurs. If you still remain dissatisfied you must notify us in writing within 28 days of return. We regret we cannot accept liability in respect of any complaint or claims which are not notified to us in accordance with this clause.

DRIVING TIMES & DISTANCES Any driving time and distances shown on your confirmation are approximate and subject to road conditions.

PASSPORTS, VISAS, HEALTH Please refer to Fair Trade Agreement.

VALIDITY OF TICKETS Return tickets are valid only for the dates and routings specified thereon unless authorised in writing by the Company or an air carrier. No liability can be accepted by the Company for missed connections due to weather, mechanical failure or otherwise. Should you miss your outward or homeward flight you may be asked to purchase a ticket for the first available date. The carrier may, however, entirely at their discretion, carry you on the next available flight without extra charge.

COMPLIMENTARY FEATURES All complimentary bonus features provided by hotels are subject to change without notice. Complimentary features are non-refundable in the event the hotel fails to provide any features published which are not used.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS Tickets and travel documents are normally issued 10 to 14 days prior to departure. Please check timings very carefully. We use the 24-hour clock system. It is possible that some timings have been changed since publication of the brochure and the issue of the confirmation/ invoice. Where late bookings/payments are involved (i.e. within two weeks of travel) a fee may be charged where special methods of despatch are required to guarantee document delivery.

AIRPORT/GOVERNMENT TAXES If you are purchasing flight only or a flight plus other ground arrangements, the taxes will be quoted separately and added to your invoice. Please note that some airport taxes cannot be paid with your ticket but are paid locally at the point of onward or return travel. Such as the Tourism Development Fee, subject to change. All Airport/ Government taxes are subject to change and unfortunately we will have to invoice you for any increases.

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT The development of a country must continue around the tourist trade.

This means that in some resorts or cities there can be continual building work. We can not anticipate when construction work is likely to happen. Noise may be generated by traffic, wildlife or any local events. Please remember that your holiday destination is the home of a community for whom working and living must continue.

COMPLAINTS Complaints must be brought to the attention of the relevant supplier and our local representative at the time. It is not reasonable

CONSUMER LEVY A consumer levy is payable on Flight Inclusive holidays in order to provide additional financial protection for holiday and travel arrangements. Currently this is £2.50 per person but this could change at any time. If the levy increases, we reserve the right to pass it on in full in respect of all bookings. The surcharge provisions set out in clause 2 ‘Your Holiday Price’ will not apply in this situation.

DATA PROTECTION Please be assured that we have measures in place to protect the personal booking information held by us. This information will be passed on to the principal and to the relevant suppliers for your travel arrangements.

The information may also be provided to public authorities such as customs or immigration if required by them, or as required by law. If you travel outside the European Economic Area, controls on data protection may not be as strong as the legal requirements in this country. We will only pass your information on to persons responsible for your travel arrangements. This applies to any sensitive information that you give to us, such as details of disabilities or dietary/religious requirements. If we cannot pass on this information to the relevant suppliers, whether within the EEA or not, we will be unable to provide your booking. In making this booking, you consent to this information being passed onto the relevant persons. Full details of our data protection policy are available upon request.

The Foreign & Commonwealth office produces up-to-date travel information to help British travellers make informed decisions about travelling abroad.

For further information please visit www.fco. gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo or telephone 0870 606 0290.

Alternatively you can contact ABTA’s Travel Information line on 020 3117 0599 (calls are charged at premium rates).

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Terms & Conditions Our terms and conditions sets out clearly and simply the responsibilities, which we at Travelpack have to you and which in turn, you have to us when a contract is made between us. In these Booking Conditions “you” means all persons named on the booking (including anyone who is added or substituted at a later date). “We” means Travelpack Marketing and Leisure Services Ltd. When signing the booking form for your holiday you will sign on behalf of yourself and others named in your party that you have read, understood and accepted this terms and conditions and the holiday information provided in this brochure. Our specification of that holiday and our terms are clearly stated in this brochure, which was published in May 2014. Your contract is entered into with Travelpack Marketing and Leisure Services Ltd. This Fair Trading agreement applies to all holidays sold from this brochure.

Financial Protection Many of the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. But ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services listed in this brochure. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. If you do not receive an ATOL Certificate then the booking will not be ATOL protected. If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but all the parts of your trip are not listed on it, those parts will not be ATOL protected. Please see our booking conditions for information, or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate. When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate.

This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong.”

We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate. In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder.

However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable). If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the nonprovision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable). You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme

Your Contract With Us 1. You Pay A Deposit: When you make your booking you must complete and sign a booking form accepting and understanding that all bookings are accepted subject to booking conditions and pay a minimum deposit of £125 per person, some products may require a higher deposit or full payment at the time of booking. You must also pay applicable insurance premiums if you wish to purchase the insurance we offer. If you book your holiday through an authorised travel agent of Travelpack, any monies you pay to that agent for your holiday will be held by the agent on our behalf until they are paid to us or refunded to you.

2. Holiday Insurance: We strongly advise that you should take out insurance to cover you in the event of illness, personal injury or death during the course of your holiday and for cancellation. We recommend that you take our insurance, details of which are contained elsewhere in this brochure, but you may elect to insure elsewhere provided you write the name and contact number of your insurance company and policy number (if applicable) on your booking form. We do not check alternative policies.

It is your responsibility to ensure you and all members of your party take out insurance which is sufficient for your particular needs and to arrange additional cover if necessary. Please read your policy before departure and take it with you on holiday.

3. You Pay The Balance: The balance of your holiday cost must be received by us at least 8 weeks prior to your departure via the office at which you made your booking. If you make your booking 8 weeks or less before departure you must pay the full cost at the time of booking. If the balance is not paid in full and on time we will write to you or telephone you to remind you that payment is due. If you have not paid within 7 working days of receiving our reminder, we reserve the right to treat the holiday as cancelled by you, retain your deposit and apply cancellation charges as set out in paragraph (5) “If You Cancel Your Holiday”.

4. If You Change Your Booking: If, after your confirmation has been issued you wish to change your holiday booking we will do our best to help, although changes cannot be guaranteed, provided written notification is received at our offices from the person who signed the Booking Form or their Travel Agent. This must be accompanied by payment of £25 per person to cover administration costs plus any additional costs incurred by us or imposed by our suppliers. These costs can be up to the full value of the booking.

5. If You Cancel Your Holiday: You or any member of your party may cancel your holiday at any time provided that the person who signed

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the Booking Form and is communicated makes the cancellation to us in writing via the office at which you made your booking. Please note, we and/or our suppliers may impose different cancellation charges from those stated below depending on the particular package in question and/ or method of transport and/or type of ticket booked (for example Apex tickets.) These may be higher than those set out below. Where different cancellation charges apply to your chosen arrangements, we will advise you of these at the time of booking. Depending on the reason for your cancellation, you may be able to reclaim these cancellation charges (less any applicable excess) under the terms of your Insurance policy. Claims must be made directly to the insurance company concerned. These charges are calculated the date we receive your written notification.

Number of days before departure written notification is received by us More than 60 days 60-31 days 30-0 days

Cancellation Charge per person Deposit 50% 100%

Holidays with Charter Flights Number of days before departure written notification is Cancellation Charge per received by us person More than 60 days Deposit 60-45 days 50% 44-0 days 100% NOTES IN ADDITION TO THE ABOVE (1) We reserve the right to charge any supplier levied cancellation charges if greater than those above.

(2) Flight only bookings are subject to the airlines cancellation charges plus an administration fee of £25 per person.

(3) Hotel Accommodation Only up to 7 days prior to departure a cancellation fee of £50 or two nights’ accommodation whichever is greater. Some hotels require higher cancellation charges; check at the time of booking.

Note: There is no refund on used or partially used Car Hire, Motor Homes or Hotel Accommodation. A £25 administration fee will also be levied on any unused hotel/car voucher.

6. If You Have A Complaint: If you have a complaint during your holiday please inform the courier/representative and the supplier of the service(s) in question immediately who will do his/her best to help you straight away. If the matter cannot be resolved to your satisfaction you must notify us in writing giving us full details within 28 days of the completion of your holiday and this must be to Travelpack at the address shown on the Booking Form. You must quote your booking reference number, holiday number and departure date. If you fail to follow the simple complaints procedure, your right to claim any compensation you may otherwise have been entitled to may be affected or even lost as a result.

7. Other Items: (a) You are responsible for ensuring that you are at the correct departure point at the correct time and we cannot be liable for any loss or expense suffered if you are not. As soon as you receive your confirmation invoice and tickets, please check the details carefully and inform us immediately if any information which appears on the confirmation or any other document appears to be incorrect, as it may not be possible to make changes later. We regret that we cannot accept liability if we are not notified of any inaccuracies in any document within fourteen days of our sending it out (five days for tickets). We will do our best to rectify any mistake notified to us outside these time limits but you must meet any costs involved in doing so. The only exception to this requirement to meet any costs is where we made the mistake and there is good reason why you did not tell us about it within these time limits. (b) We reserve the right to refuse a booking or terminate your holiday in the event of unreasonable conduct which in the opinion of ourselves or some other person in authority causing or is likely to cause damage, distress, danger or annoyance to other clients, employees or any third party or damage to property. In the event of such termination our responsibilities toward the person concerned and their holiday arrangements will immediately cease. Full cancellation charges will apply and we will be under no obligation to make any refund, pay any compensation or meet any expenses or losses you or that person incur as a result. When you book with us, you accept responsibility for any damage or loss caused by you or any member of your party. Full payment for any such damage or loss must be paid direct at the time to the accommodation owner or manager or other supplier. If you fail to do so, you will be responsible for meeting any claims subsequently made against us (together with our own and the other party’s full legal costs) as a result of your actions. (c) PASSPORTS & VISAS British Citizens require a full ten year British passport. A Visitor’s passport is NOT accepted. Persons under 16 years cannot travel on their parent’s passports and are required to have their own individual passport. If you or any member of your party is not a British citizen or holds a non-British passport, you must check passport and visa requirements with the Embassy or Consulate of the countries to or through which you are intending to travel. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in the possession of the correct travel documents.

Please check the requirements at the time of booking and good time

before departure. (d) HEALTH- Requirements are subject to change and passengers are reminded that they are responsible for complying with entry and health requirements of all countries they intend to visit. A Department of Health leaflet (Ref -T3) ‘A Traveller’s Guide to Health ’ is available on request or may be obtained free from your Doctor, Travel Agent or by phoning Free phone 0800 555777. Requirements may of course change and all clients must check the up to date position in good time before departure.

We regret we cannot accept liability if you are refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure on your part to carry the correct documentation. If failure to have any necessary travel or other documents results in fines, surcharges or other financial penalty being imposed on us, you will be responsible for reimbursing us accordingly.

Our Promise To You 1. We Reserve Your Holiday: A binding contract between us comes into existence when your travel agent confirms your booking to us over the telephone, or via the Internet or in all other cases when we dispatch our confirmation invoice. We both agree that any dispute, claim or other matter which arises out of or in connection with your contract or holiday will be dealt with by the Courts of England and Wales only (unless you opt for arbitration under Clause 6 of “Our Promise to You”) except if you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland in which case proceedings may be brought in the Courts of your home country. If proceedings are brought in Scotland or Northern Ireland, you may choose to have your contract governed by the law of Scotland/Northern Ireland as applicable.

2. Your Holiday Price: Holiday prices include all coach travel, accommodation and meals as specified in the holiday description and VAT and GST where applicable. With effect from January 1st 1991 the Canadian Federal Government levied a goods and service tax (GST) on hotel and other elements of your holiday package. Similar to British VAT a proportion of this tax is refundable to overseas visitors. Rather than impose on you the responsibility for reclaiming any rebate due we have already deducted this amount in calculating the holiday prices shown in this brochure. When signing the booking form you waive your personal right to claim a GST rebate applicable to your holiday package and assign such entitlement to us as the tour operator. This will then enable us to reclaim the tax paid by us on your behalf and no further refunds will be due to you. Reservations can only be accepted on this express understanding. Unless specifically indicated in the holiday itinerary or description contained in this brochure, entrance fees, guide fees, city sightseeing tours and optional excursions are not included in the holiday cost.

CHANGES TO PRICES We reserve the right to increase or decrease the prices of unsold holiday arrangements and correct errors at any time.

PACKAGES ONLY Once the price of your chosen holiday has been confirmed at the time of booking then, subject to the correction of errors, we will only increase or decrease the price in the following circumstances. Price increases or decreases after booking will be passed on by way of a surcharge or refund. A surcharge or refund (as applicable) will be payable, subject to the conditions set out in this clause, if transportation costs or dues, taxes or fees payable for services such as increases/decreases to fuel prices, government imposed fees, landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports or airports increase or decrease. Or our costs increase or decrease as a result of any adverse or favourable changes in the exchange rates, which have been used to calculate the cost of your holiday. Even in the above cases we will absorb increases up to a total amount equivalent to 2% of the holiday price, which excludes insurance premiums, and any amendment charges. Only amounts in excess of this 2% will be surcharged. If this means paying more than 10% of the holiday price (excluding insurance premiums and amendment charges) you will be entitled to cancel your holiday and receive a full refund of all money paid to us except for any premium for holiday insurance and amendment charges or alternatively purchase an alternative holiday from us as referred to in clause 3 below (“If we change or cancel your holiday”.) We will also pay you compensation as detailed in and in accordance with the conditions set out in clause 3 below. Should you decide to cancel or purchase another holiday from us because of this you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on the invoice. Please note a refund will only be payable if the decrease in our costs exceeds 2% as set out above. Where a refund is due we will pay you the full amount of the decrease in our costs. We promise not to levy a surcharge within 30 days of departure.

FLIGHT ONLY BOOKINGS Flight only bookings are subject to the terms and conditions of the airline that you are travelling with. We reserve the right at any time before departure to pass on any increase in cost levied by the airlines. This may be increased taxes, fuel cost, government imposed fees, any adverse or favourable changes in the exchange rates.

All prices printed in this brochure are based on the exchange rate and other known costs as at the 4th December 2017, in the former case as set out below. £1.00 = 86.53 Rupees We reserve the right to correct errors in both advertised and confirmed prices. We will do so as soon as we ecome aware of the error. Please note changes and errors occasionally occur. You must check the price of your chosen holiday at the time of booking.

3. If We Change Or Cancel Your Holiday: We start planning the holidays we offer many months in advance. Occasionally, we have to make changes to, and correct errors in the brochure and other details both before and after bookings have been confirmed and cancel confirmed bookings. Whilst we always endeavour to avoid changes and cancellations, we must reserve the right to do so. However, we promise we will only cancel your confirmed booking 8 weeks or less before departure

departure where you have failed to comply with any requirement of these booking conditions entitling us to cancel (such as paying on time) or where we are forced to do so as a result of circumstances outside our control/“force majeure” as defined in clause 4 below. We will not cancel after this date for any other reason. Most changes are minor.

Occasionally, we have to make a “significant change”. “Significant changes” means the following changes when made before departure; a change of accommodation to that of a lower official classification or standard for the whole or a major part of the time you are away, a change of accommodation area for the whole or a major part of the time you are away, a change of outward departure time or overall length of time you are away of twelve or more hours, a change in outward departure airport to one that is more inconvenient for you (and except as between Gatwick and Heathrow), in the case of tours, a significant change of itinerary missing out one or more major destination substantially or altogether.

ABTA website (www.abta.com). This Scheme does not apply to claims for an amount greater than £5,000 per person. There is also a limit of £25,000 per booking form. Neither does it apply to claims, which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness or their consequences. The Scheme can however deal with compensation claims, which include an element of minor injury, or illness subject to a limit of £1,000 on the amount the Arbitrator can award per person in respect of this element.

The application for Arbitration and Statement of Claim must be received by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators within nine months of the date of return from the holiday. Outside this time limit Arbitration under the Scheme may still be available if the company agrees, but the ABTA Code does not require such agreement.

(5). You must provide our insurers and ourselves with all assistance we may reasonably require. If asked to do so, you must transfer to us or our insurers, any rights you have against the supplier or whoever else is responsible for your claim or complaint (if the person concerned is under 18, their parent or guardian must do so). You must also agree to cooperate fully with our insurers and us if our insurers or we want to enforce any rights, which are transferred.

(6). In the event of delays we will try to minimise the inconvenience to you so far as is possible, practical and appropriate in the circumstance prevailing at the time. However in the majority of cases the airline will arrange extra meals in the event of delay.

6. Our Liability To You: Please note this clause does not apply to any (7). Please remember that some amenities (e.g. lifts, swimming pools, etc bookings of one type of service only (e.g. flight only, accommodation or require servicing or cleaning and we cannot therefore guarantee that car hire only). they are always available. Some services may also be affected by weather Please note: A change of or reduction in quality of one or more single (1) We promise to make sure that all parts of the holiday we have agreed conditions and their availability is entirely at the discretion of the provider overnight hotels or a change of commentary from English only to to arrange, perform or provide as part of our contract with you are of the service. Entertainment provided by hotels is frequently subject to multilingual which includes English on touring and part touring holidays performed or provided with reasonable skill and care. We will accept demand and its nature and/or frequency may be varied if there is a lack of will not be a significant change. This and all other changes are minor responsibility if any death, personal injury, failure or deficiency of your demand or insufficient number staying in the hotel. changes. If we have to make a significant change or cancel, we will tell you holiday arrangements is caused by any fault of ours, or our agents or or your travel agent as soon as is reasonably possible. If there is time to do suppliers. When we talk about “fault” above, this means failure by ourselves (8) If you or any member of your party suffers illness, injury or death, through misadventure, as a result of an activity which does not form so before departure, we will offer you the choice of the following options: or our agents or suppliers (as applicable) to use reasonable skill and care part of your contracted holiday arrangements, we will provide you with (a) Accepting the changed arrangements. in performing or providing the service in question. Please note it is your all reasonable assistance. This assistance may include our making a (b) Purchasing another holiday from us. We will offer you at least one responsibility to show that reasonable skill and care has not been used if alternative holiday of equivalent or higher standard providing one is you wish to make a claim. We will not be responsible for any injury, illness, contribution towards your initial legal costs in taking action against the person(s) responsible providing you request this within 90 days of the available for which you will not be asked to pay any more than the price death, loss (for example loss of enjoyment), damage, expense, cost or incident in question. All assistance (financial or otherwise) is subject to of the original holiday. If this holiday is in fact less expensive than the other sum or claim of any description whatsoever which results from any our reasonable discretion and a maximum total cost to us of £5,000 per original one, we will refund the price difference. If you do not wish to of the following: booking form. If you are entitled to have any costs and expenses arising accept the alternative holiday we specifically offer you, you may choose (a) The fault of the person(s) affected or any member(s) of their party or from such an incident met by or from any insurance policy or if you obtain any of our other available holidays. You must pay the applicable price of (b) The fault of a third party not connected with the provision of your a costs order against anyone in relation to the incident, you must repay to any such holiday. This will mean you’re paying more if it is more expensive holiday which we could not have predicted or avoided or us the costs and expenses we spend in assisting you. or receiving a refund if it is less expensive. (c) An event or circumstance which we or the supplier of the service(s) (c) In the case of cancelling or accepting the cancellation in which case in question could not have predicted or avoided even after taking all 7. Conditions Of Carriage: Independent suppliers provide many of the you will receive a full refund of all monies you have paid to us. If we have reasonable care (see clause 4 above) services, which make up your holiday. Those suppliers provide these to notify you of a significant change or cancel before departure, we will, (d) The fault of anyone who is not carrying out work for us (generally or in services in accordance with their own terms and conditions. Some of as a minimum, where compensation is due pay you the compensation particular) at the time. these terms and conditions may limit or exclude the supplier’s liability payments set out in the table below depending on the circumstances and In addition, we will not be responsible where you do not enjoy your to you, usually in accordance with applicable International Conventions when the significant change or cancellation is notified to you. holiday or suffer any problems because of a reason you did not tell us (see clause “Our responsibilities” clause (6 (4)). Copies of the relevant parts Compensation will not be payable and no liability beyond offering the about when you booked your holiday or where any problems you suffer of these terms and conditions are available on request from us or the above mentioned choices can be accepted where (1) we are forced to did not result from any breach of our contract or other fault of ourselves suppliers concerned. make a change or cancel as a result of unusual and unforeseeable or, where we were responsible for them, our suppliers or agents or where 8. Special Requests and Medical Problems: If you have any special requests, circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which we could any losses, expenses, costs or other sum you have suffered relate to any you must ensure it is clearly noted on your booking form at the time of not have avoided even with all due care which include but are not limited business. Please note, we cannot accept responsibility for any services, booking. Although we will endeavour to pass any reasonable requests on to those amounting to “force majeure” (see clause 4 below) or (2) we which do not form part of our contract. This includes, for example, any to the relevant supplier, we regret we cannot promise that any request have to cancel because the minimum number of bookings necessary additional services or facilities, which your hotel or any other supplier will be complied with unless we have specifically confirmed this in writing. for us to operate your holiday has not been reached- in this case we will agrees to provide for you where the services or facilities are not Confirmation that a special request has been noted or passed on to the notify you no less than 8 weeks before your scheduled departure date. advertised in our brochure and we have not agreed to arrange them. supplier or the inclusion of the special request on your Confirmation or No compensation will be payable if we cancel as a result of your failure to (2) The promises we make to you about the services we have agreed to any other documentation is not confirmation that the request will be met. comply with any requirement of these booking conditions entitling us to provide or arrange as part of our contract- and the laws and regulations Unless and until specifically confirmed, all special requests are subject to cancel (such as paying on time). of the country in which your claim or complaint occurred - will be used availability. If you or any member of your party has any medical problem as the basis for deciding whether the services in question had been Period before departure in or disability, which may affect your holiday, please, tell us before you properly provided. If the particular services which gave rise to the claim which significant change or Compensation payable confirm your booking so that we can advise as to the suitability of the or complaint complied with local laws and regulations applicable to those chosen arrangements. per person cancellation is notified to you services at the time, the services will be treated as having been properly Over 29 days £10 In any event, you must give us full details in writing at the time of booking. provided. This will be the case even if the services did not comply with 28-15 days £15 If we reasonably feel unable to properly accommodate the particular the laws and regulations of the UK which would have applied had those 14-8 days £20 needs of the person concerned, we must reserve the right to decline their services been provided in the UK. The exception to this is where the claim 7-0 days £25 reservation or, if full details are not given at the time of booking, cancel or complaint concerns the absence of a safety feature, which might lead a when we become aware of these details.

In all cases, our liability for significant changes and cancellations is limited reasonable holidaymaker to refuse to take the holiday in question. to offering you the above-mentioned options and, where applicable, Prices and Brochure Accuracy Please note, the information and prices (3) We limit the maximum amount we may have to pay you for any and compensation payments. We regret we cannot pay any expenses, costs shown in this brochure may have changed by the time you come to all claims or parts of claims, which do not involve personal injury, illness or losses incurred by you as a result of any change or cancellation. No book your holiday. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy or death. Except where loss of and/or damage to luggage or personal compensation is payable for minor changes. A minor change is any change possessions is concerned or a lower limitation of liability applies to of the brochure and prices at the time of printing, regrettably errors do which, taking account of the information you have given us at the time occasionally occur. You must therefore ensure you check all details of your your claim, the maximum amount we will have to pay you for such non of booking or which we can reasonably be expected to know as a tour personal injury claims if we are found liable to you on any basis is twice the chosen holiday (including the price) with your travel agent or us at the operator, we could not reasonably expect to have a significant effect on time of booking. This brochure is our sole responsibility. It is not issued holiday price (excluding insurance premiums and amendment charges) your confirmed holiday. Very rarely, we may be forced by “force majeure” on behalf of and does not commit any independent organisation/carriers paid by or on behalf of the person(s) affected in total. This maximum (see clause 4 below) to change or terminate your holiday after departure whose services are featured in it. amount will only be payable where everything has gone wrong and you but before the scheduled end of your time away. This is extremely unlikely have not received any benefit at all from your holiday. Where we are found Safety standards Please note, it is the requirements and standards of the but if this situation does occur, we regret we will be unable to make any liable for loss of and/or damage to any luggage or personal possessions country, in which any services, which make up your holiday are provided refunds (unless we obtain any refunds from our suppliers), pay you any (including money), the maximum amount we will have to pay you is which apply to those services and not those of the UK. As a general rule, compensation or meet any costs or expenses £25 per person affected as you are assumed to have taken out adequate these requirements and standards will not be the same as the UK and may you incur as a result. insurance at the time of booking. Please also sometimes/often be lower. see sub clause 4 below.

Flights: The flight timings given on booking are for general guidance (4) Where any claim or part of a claim concerns or is based on any travel only and are subject to change. The latest timings will be shown on your arrangements (including the process of getting on and off the transport confirmation invoice. However, the actual flight times will be those shown concerned) provided by any air, sea, rail or road carrier or any stay in a on your tickets, which will be dispatched to you approximately two weeks hotel, the maximum amount of compensation we will have to pay you before departure. You must accordingly check your tickets very carefully will be limited. The most we will have to pay you for that claim or that immediately on receipt to ensure you have the correct flight times. It is part of a claim if we are found liable to you on any basis is the most possible that flight times may be changed even after tickets have been the carrier or hotel keeper concerned would have to pay under the dispatched- we will contact you as soon as possible if this occurs. We International Convention which applies to the travel arrangements or strongly suggest you reconfirm your flights at least 72 hours prior to hotel stay in question (for example, the Warsaw Convention as amended departure in the event of any changes. We are not always in a position for international travel by air and/or for airlines with an operating license to confirm the airline, aircraft type and airport of destination, which will granted by an EU country, the EU Regulation on Air Carrier Liability 5. What Happens To Complaints: We can normally agree on amicable be used in connection with any flight included in your holiday. When for national and international travel by air, the Athens Convention for settlement of the few complaints we receive. However disputes arising out this information is provided at the time of booking or subsequently, it international travel by sea). When making any payment, we are entitled of or in connection with, this contract which cannot be amicably settled is subject to change. Any such change will not entitle you to cancel or to deduct any money, which you have received or are entitled to receive may be referred to arbitration, if you so wish, under a special scheme change to other arrangements without paying our normal charges.t from the transport provider or hotelier for the complaint or claim in arranged by the Association of British Travel Agents, and administered India www.travelpack.com Tel: 0208 585 4060 question. independently by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. The Scheme provides for a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restrictive liability on the customer in respect of costs. Full details will be provided on request or can be obtained from the 4. Force Majeure: Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions, we regret we cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance or prompt performance of our contractual obligations is prevented or affected by or you otherwise suffer any damage or loss (as more fully described in clause 6(1) below) as a result of “force majeure”. In these Booking Conditions, “force majeure” means any event which we or the supplier of the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include war or threat of war, riot, civil strife, actual or threatened terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events outside our control.

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ABTA No.N1031