INDIA SUBLIME

Page 1

India Sublime

Luxury Redefined


Dear Travelers,

Contents

Home to the ancient Indus Valley Civilization and a region of historic trade routes and vast empires, the Indian subcontinent was identified with its commercial and cultural wealth for much of its long history. Four of the world’s major religions—Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism—originated here, and the art, architecture and sights continue to beckon travelers from all over the world. Today India is also the most populous democracy in the world and a leader in technology development.

10 Days Golden Triangle at Leisure

1

11 Days Princely India with Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

4

13 Days India Unveiled- Women Special

7

14 Days Presence of the Past

10

14 Days Rajasthan in Style

13

15 Days Temples, Tigers & Taj Mahal

16

13 Days Eternal Romance of India- Honeymoon Special

19

14 Days Exotic India and Maldives- Honeymoon Special

22

14 Days Absolute India- North & South India

25

15 Days Jewish Heritage in India

28

15 Days In Search of the Tiger

31

We are delighted to present you an exclusive collection of upscale tours to the Indian sub-continent uniquely crafted with unusual perspectives. These tours are designed for that discriminating traveler who wants and expects only the best. With a combination of Premier Luxury Hotels, new private domestic airlines, comfortable air-conditioned luxury cars, we have designed the most perfect high quality tours to India. Tours are run in an unhurried, relaxed pace and have in-built flexibility starting with travel in private chauffeur driven cars with high caliber Spanish speaking local guides. Internal flights are on premium private airlines, with the best record in safety and on time flight performance. Wherever available, internal flights are upgraded to business class. Tips to airport and hotel porters, drivers, guides, transfer representatives, at restaurants for included meals are all pre-paid and included in the tour cost so that you can enjoy a hassle free tour.

10 Days Myths and Legends of Bhutan- Honeymoon Special

34

Choice of Vehicles

36

Travel Facts

37

All aspects of the itinerary have been reviewed in order to provide you with a comprehensive offering with special behind-the scenes access. All the tours include our unique and distinctive extra features and provide an insight into ethnic people and cultures beyond tourist facades. You will experience India in all its opulence, magnificence, charm and beauty in high quality touring. Be ready to be pampered by attention to details and personalized services. Sincerely, Worldview Tours


Jal Mahal, Jaipur

10 Days

Golden Triangle at Leisure Delhi • Agra • Ranthambore National Park •Jaipur

TI BE T

DELHI

NEPAL JAIPUR

AGRA

RANTHAMBORE

INDIA MUMBAI

Air ....................... Train Drive

Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

Arrive Delhi Daily except Tuesdays

The 21st century India is one of the fastest growing economies in the world, setting the stage of remake India. Though history is a record of the past, it lives in the present and waits in the future. India offers remarkable perspectives on where the modern world intersects with life as it has been lived for millennia. This is a slow paced first timer’s introduction to India. The tour features the magic of three most interesting ‘must do’ cities of North India: Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and scout for Wild Tiger stripes in Ranthambore National Park. India’s architecture is perhaps India’s greatest glory. Among the most renowned monuments you will visit are the Mughal masterpieces: Humayun’s Tomb, Fatehpur Sikri and the Taj Mahal. Enjoy visual and performing arts with behind-the-scenes access to artists at work and see some private art collections. Meet colorful and friendly people of India. OberoiGurgaon

Premier Room, Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur

1


City Palace, Jaipur

Jama Mosque, Old Delhi

NETT TOUR PRICES PER PERSON 01 OCT, 2011 – 31 MAR, 2012* Minimum 2 persons Double

US$ 5590

Single room supplement

US$ 2490

* Prices not valid for Christmas/New Year period Dec. 20-Jan. 10

TOUR ITINERARY DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI- Evening arrival

in Delhi, capital of India. Its history goes back 2000 years. Few capitals in the world have as many ancient monuments as Delhi. THE OBEROI DAY 2: DELHI- Tour of New Delhi, visiting

the impressive Qutub Minar, a 234-ft sandstone tower and the Humayun’s Tomb, known as the first example of the Mughal imperial architecture. See the India Gate, Government buildings and presidential palace along the broad and majestic Rajpath. Visit the Gurudwara, Temple for the Sikh. Enjoy a brief walk around the Lodi Gardens and see 15th16th century tombs and a beautifully decorated mosque amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. (B) Oberoi Spa

20 years to build this beautiful structure. Enjoy an extended visit to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. See marble inlay work known as Pietra Dura and visit a private collection of gems/jewelry, tapestries and three dimensional embroideries (as mentioned in National Geographic magazine, *KOHINOOR). Enjoy another perspective of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh, situated on the opposite bank of the Taj Mahal. (B) OBEROI AMARVILAS DAY 5: AGRA, RANTHAMBORE- Today drive to Ranthambore National Park in search of the elusive tiger visiting en route Fatehpur Sikri, the once fabled Mughal capital that now lies quietly but wonderfully preserved. Ranthambore National Park encompasses nearly 152 square miles of dry deciduous forest in

Royal Bengal Tiger

TOUR PRICE INCLUDES • Round trip airport transfers in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver • Baggage handling of one piece checked bag per person at airports • 9 night hotel accommodations on sharing a double room or in a single room at the mentioned or similar hotels as per itinerary inclusive of any applicable room taxes and service charges • Meals as mentioned B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner on table d’hôte basis (Not A la Carte) • Tours with local Spanish speaking guides in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver. • Entrance fee to monuments and included features • Tips/gratuities for drivers, guides, waiters at restaurants for included meals, airport transfer representatives, porters at airports and hotels. • 24/7 Concierge service • Mineral water and Soft Beverages on cars during tours and overland drives

DAY 3: DELHI- Tour of Old Delhi to see

the Red Fort, a symbol of Mughal power and visit Chandni Chowk (old shopping street), the market area popular for glass bangles and silver jewelry. On return, visit Raj Ghat, a memorial to the great Mahatma Gandhi. Tour Akshardham Temple, the largest Hindu temple complex in the world and discover the Crafts Museum galleries displaying India’s rich tradition of handicrafts. (B) DAY 4: DELHI, AGRA- Morning first class

train ride to Agra. The Taj Mahal, simply, is beauty - not just in design and technique, but in desire and intent. It was built as a monument to love, a manifestation of life’s most powerful emotion. It took world’s best craftsmen and about 20,000 workers, 2

south- eastern Rajasthan. It is famous for its tigers and is a favorite with photographers. For a relatively small area, the park has a rich diversity of fauna and flora - species list includes 300 trees, 50 aquatic plants, 272 birds, 12 reptiles (including the marsh crocodile) and amphibians and 30 mammals. Besides the tiger, other predators found in Ranthambore are leopard, striped hyena, jackal, caracal and jungle cat. Also seen are sloth bear, sambar deer, chital (spotted) deer, nilgai (blue bull) antelope, wild boar, chinkara (Indian) gazelle, Indian hare, mongoose, common langur, palm civet, palm squirrel, porcupine and monitor lizard. (B) OBEROI VANYAVILAS

TOUR PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE International airfare, passport and visa fee, insurance, any meals and transportation that is not part of the itinerary, foreign airport taxes, excess baggage charges, personal tips/gratuities to waiters at restaurants for non-included meals, chamber maids, other hotel staff, beverages, laundry, phone calls, faxes, and any other such items of personal nature. india@worldviewtours.com www.worldviewtours.com


Humayuns Tomb, Delhi

NOTES PRICES ARE NETT, PLEASE ADD YOUR MARK UP ON THE SAME DELHI- RED FORT, AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE, LOTUS TEMPLE AND MOST MUSEUMS CLOSED ON MONDAYS AGRA- TAJ MAHAL IS CLOSED ON FRIDAYS RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK IS CLOSED DURING MONSOONS: JULY 01- SEPTEMBER 30

DAY 6: RANTHAMBORE- Morning and afternoon nature drive into the Park by park vehicle. Visit the Ranthambore School of Art, which have revolutionized the concept of wildlife paintings. Later, visit the Dastkar’s Project, a society for crafts and craftspeople. (B) DAY 7: RANTHAMBORE, JAIPUR- Drive

to Jaipur, the rose-pink capital of Rajasthan. Experience the flavors of Indian cinema at a local movie theatre for a short Bollywood movie. (B) OBEROI RAJVILAS DAY 8: JAIPUR- This morning riding

on elegantly caparisoned elephants, we make our way to the Amber Fort to visit its palaces. Later, visit Jal Mahal, a living museum, a former royal pleasure pavilion brought back to life and dedicated to Jaipur’s people and culture. Tour the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, an old astronomical observatory and also see the ornate and elaborate Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds. Sample the artistic wealth of the region; cutting and polishing gemstones, art of making blue pottery, hand block printing

and tie-n-dye etc. See a demonstration on hand painting - the art of ‘Mehndi’ with natural ‘Henna’ powders. Enjoy a special authentic Indian dinner at 1135AD, Amber Palace. (B, D) DAY 9: JAIPUR, DELHI- Morning take a Heritage walk through old walled city of Jaipur, a unique way to explore the living traditions of the city. Experience the spiritual side of the locals by visiting colorful temples, interact with residents over a cup of tea in their homes and discover some of the architectural wonders of this fascinating area of Jaipur. Later, drive to Delhi. This evening you are invited to a modern family home for a cocktail. Later, visit ‘Kingdom of Dreams’, a centre of Indian art, culture and heritage. Enjoy India’s first live entertainment and theatre with authentic dinner of a regional cuisine of India. (B) OBEROI GURGAON

TOUR EXTENSIONS Pre/Post Tour extensions are available to Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, Sri Lanka, Maldives, South India, beaches of Goa and Kovalam, Islands of Andaman and Lakshadweep, Darjeeling/Sikkim, Kerala and the backwaters, Aurangabad- Ajanta & Ellora caves, Mumbai and Wildlife parks of Kanha/Bandhavgarh/Pench, etc.

VISA For all travel to India one requires a MULTIPLE entry visa to India before the arrival, which can be obtained from Embassy of India in your country. Qutub Minar, Delhi

DAY 10: DEPART DELHI. Early morning

transfer to the airport for your homebound flight.

Awe-inspiring Taj Mahal

3


Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi

Arrive Delhi:

PRINCELY INDIA

11 Days

with 4 nights on Royal Rajasthan on Wheels Delhi • Udaipur • Jaipur • Khajuraho • Varanasi • Agra

TI BE T

DELHI

NEPAL AGRA JAIPUR VARANASI UDAIPUR

KHAJURAHO

INDIA MUMBAI

Air ....................... Train Drive

Deluxe Cabin, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

4

2011: 30-Sep, 21-Oct, 28-Oct 04-Nov, 11-Nov, 18-Nov, 25-Nov 16-Dec, 23-Dec, 30-Dec 2012: 13-Jan, 20-Jan, 27-Jan 03-Feb, 10-Feb, 17-Feb, 24-Feb 02-Mar, 09-Mar, 16-Mar

Live like a prince, dine under cristal chandeliers, recline on chairs inlaid with ivory, and walk on ancient Persian rugs. India’s Maharajas and the royalty lived a life of opulence until they lost their titles to democracy. In the early 1900s, there were over 500 independent principalities in India. Many of their royal residences are now ‘Heritage Hotels’. As hotels, they offer luxury that no modern imitation can match. Stay in some of the finest palace hotels in India, Lake Palace Hotel, Udaipur and Rambagh Palace, Jaipur. Enjoy four nights on the luxury train, ‘Royal Rajasthan on Wheels’. This train is newly built and designed in a contemporary royal style.You will be delighted with the magnificent interiors, sumptuous meals, and personalized service. With the addition of Khajuraho and Varanasi this program offers a complete North India tour.

Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

Taj Rambagh Palace, Jaipur


Evening Prayer Ceremony, River Ganges, Varanasi

Khajuraho Temple

NETT TOUR PRICES PER PERSON 01 OCT, 2011 – 31 MAR, 2012* Minimum 2 persons Double

US$ 6890

Single room supplement

US$ 3050

* Prices Not Valid For Christmas/New Year Period Dec. 20- Jan.10 Supplement For Private Tours In Khajuraho, Varanasi And Agra With Private Air-Conditioned Luxury Car And Spanish Speaking Local Guide: US$ 1090 Per Person

TOUR ITINERARY DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI- Evening arrival in Delhi, capital of India. Its history goes back 2000 years. Few capitals in the world have as many ancient monuments as Delhi. THE IMPERIAL DAY 2: DELHI- Tour of New Delhi visiting

the Humayun’s Tomb, known as the first example of the Mughal imperial architecture. See the India Gate, Government buildings and presidential palace along the broad and majestic Rajpath. Visit the Gurudwara, Temple for the Sikh. Tour of Old Delhi to see the Red Fort, a symbol of Mughal power and visit Chandni Chowk (old shopping street), the market area popular for glass bangles and silver jewelry. On return, visit Raj Ghat, a memorial to the great Mahatma Gandhi. (B) Red Fort, Delhi

DAY 3: DELHI, UDAIPUR- Morning enjoy a brief walk around the Lodi Gardens and see 15th-16th century tombs and a beautifully decorated mosque amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. Later, visit the impressive Qutub Minar, a 234-ft sandstone tower. Fly to Udaipur. The city of Udaipur stands in a valley amid green hills on the banks of the wide, steel blue Lake Pichola. Take a sunset cruise on Lake Pichola with a visit to the Jagmandir Palace. (B) TAJ LAKE PALACE DAY 4: UDAIPUR- Day excursion to the

beautiful Jain temple of Ranakpur. Built in white marble with exquisitely intricate carvings, the temple is unique in its architectural elegance. Meet the priest of

the temple and attend an exclusive prayer ceremony. Enjoy elephant safari and lunch at Mountbatten Lodge in Ranakpur. (B, L) DAY 5: UDAIPUR, JAIPUR- Morning tour of Udaipur, visiting the vast and exquisite City Palace of the Maharana. Amber, jade and colored glass gives the palace a sparkling, yet ethereal quality. See the Fateh Sagar Lake and visit the Jagdish Temple. Visit the Crystal Gallery, probably the largest private collection of crystal in the world. Later fly to Jaipur, the rosepink capital of Rajasthan. Experience the flavors of Indian cinema at a local movie theatre for a short Bollywood movie. (B) TAJ RAMBAGH PALACE DAY 6: JAIPUR, KHAJURAHO- This morning riding on elegantly caparisoned elephants, we make our way to the Amber

Restaurant, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

Fort to visit its palaces. Later, visit Jal Mahal, a living museum, a former royal pleasure pavilion brought back to life and dedicated to Jaipur’s people and culture. Tour the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, an old astronomical observatory and also see the ornate and elaborate Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds. Sample the artistic wealth of the region; cutting and polishing gemstones, art of making blue pottery, hand block printing and tie-ndye etc. Take a Heritage walk through old walled city of Jaipur, a unique way to explore the living traditions of the city. Experience the spiritual side of the locals by visiting colorful temples, interact with residents over a cup of tea in their homes and discover some of the architectural wonders of this fascinating area

TOUR PRICE INCLUDES • Round trip airport transfers in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver • Baggage handling of one piece checked bag per person at airports • 6 night hotel accommodations on sharing a double room or in a single room at the mentioned or similar hotels as per itinerary inclusive of any applicable room taxes and service charges • 4 night accommodations on the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels sharing a double or in a single deluxe cabin • Meals as mentioned B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner on table d’hôte basis (Not A la Carte) • Tours in Delhi, Udaipur, Jaipur with local Spanish speaking guides in a private airconditioned luxury car with driver • Tours in Khajuraho, Varanasi, Agra with local English speaking guides on seat in coach basis (provided by Royal Rajasthan on Wheels) • Entrance fee to monuments and included features • Internal air Delhi/Udaipur/Jaipur in economy class • Tips/gratuities for drivers, guides, waiters at restaurants for included meals, airport transfer representatives, porters at airports and hotels (not on the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels portion) • 24/7 Concierge service • Mineral water and Soft Beverages on cars during tours and overland drives

TOUR PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE International airfare, passport and visa fee, insurance, any meals and transportation that is not part of the itinerary, foreign airport taxes, excess baggage charges, personal tips/ gratuities to waiters at restaurants for nonincluded meals, chamber maids, other hotel staff, beverages, laundry, phone calls, faxes, and any other such items of personal nature. india@worldviewtours.com www.worldviewtours.com 5


Romantic Lake Pichola, Udaipur

NOTES PRICES ARE NETT, PLEASE ADD YOUR MARK UP ON THE SAME DELHI- RED FORT, AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE, LOTUS TEMPLE AND MOST MUSEUMS CLOSED ON MONDAYS AGRA- TAJ MAHAL IS CLOSED ON FRIDAYS

of Jaipur. Evening board ‘Royal Rajasthan on Wheels’ train, as we depart for Khajuraho. (B) ROYAL RAJASTHAN ON WHEELS

Enjoy a cruise along the Ganges River to witness the Hindu rituals. (B, L, D) ROYAL RAJASTHAN ON WHEELS

DAY 7: KHAJURAHO- Morning arrive Khajuraho, known for its magnificent temples, which are among the most creative examples of Indian architecture. The temples here are known for their symmetry and design, and also for their intricate and erotic carvings on their walls. Khajuraho sculpture is sublime and sensuous, the center of new imagery in art. The carvings also depict griffins, nymphs, beasts, and demons in revolt, gods in cosmic evolution, fear, doubt, jealousy, ardent love and consummate passion. This afternoon we will explore the western and eastern group of temples. Tour of the western and eastern group of temples. (B, L, D) ROYAL RAJASTHAN ON WHEELS

DAY 9: AGRA- Morning arrive Agra. The Taj Mahal, simply, is beauty - not just in design and technique, but in desire and intent. It was built as a monument to love, a manifestation of life’s most powerful emotion. It took world’s best craftsmen and about 20,000 workers, 20 years to build this beautiful structure. Enjoy an extended visit to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. (B, L, D) ROYAL RAJASTHAN ON WHEELS

DAY 8: VARANASI- Morning arrive

Varanasi. Varanasi, with its array of shrines, temples and palaces, rising in several tiers from the water’s edge, it is the holiest city for Hindus. Visit Sarnath, the site where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon. Agra Fort

6

DAY 10: DELHI- Arrive Delhi and transfer to the Hotel. This evening you are invited to a modern family home for a cocktail. Later, visit ‘Kingdom of Dreams’, a centre of Indian art, culture and heritage. Enjoy India’s first live entertainment and theatre with authentic dinner of a regional cuisine of India. (B, D) OBEROI GURGAON DAY 11: DEPART DELHI. Early

morning transfer to the airport for your homebound flight.

ROYAL RAJASTHAN ON WHEELS- DEPARTS ON SELECTED DATES SO THE TOUR CAN BE OPERATED ON THE DATES MENTIONED. MINOR MODIFICATION IN THE ITINERARY OF ROYAL RAJASTHAN ON WHEELS POST FEBRUARY, 2012

TOUR EXTENSIONS Pre/Post Tour extensions are available to Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, Sri Lanka, South India, beaches of Goa and Kovalam, Islands of Andaman and Lakshadweep, Darjeeling/ Sikkim, Aurangabad- Ajanta & Ellora caves, Mumbai and Wildlife parks of Ranthambore/ Kanha/Bandhavgarh/Pench, etc.

VISA For all travel to India one requires a MULTIPLE entry visa to India before the arrival, which can be obtained from Embassy of India in your country.

Rural Road in Rajasthan


Red Fort, Delhi

INDIA UNVEILED

13 Days

SHE - A WOMEN SPECIAL EXPERIENCE TO INDIA Delhi • Agra • Jaipur • Jodhpur •Udaipur

TI BE T

DELHI

NEPAL JODHPUR

JAIPUR

UDAIPUR

AGRA

INDIA

MUMBAI

Lobby, Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur

Air Train Drive

Arrive Delhi Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays

Be it a re-union with a childhood friend or your sister or a mother-daughter bonding experience- Women Only special journey offers you an opportunity to discover hidden treasures of India in the company of other women, experiencing sightseeing and activities presented from a woman’s perspective.You can travel with peace of mind, knowing that you are among like-minded travelers and will have all the day-to-day details handled for you! You have a chance to go on a shopping spree with each region boasting its own specialties, each town its own local craftsmen and its own particular skills. Enjoy a spa service, yoga session, meditation, culinary session, Henna painting, meet a women’s group, visit an orphanage, enjoy a village safari, walk through the spice, vegetable, silver, textile markets, see handmade paper factory, blue pottery, miniature paintings, marble inlay work, Gem cutting and polishing, carpet weaving, brocade work and embroideries etc.

Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur

Premier Room with Balcony, Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

7


Elephant Safari

Bridal Henna

NETT TOUR PRICES PER PERSON 01 OCT, 2011 – 31 MAR, 2012* Minimum 2 persons Double

US$ 7690

Single room supplement

US$ 3890

* Prices not valid for Christmas/New Year period Dec. 20-Jan. 10

TOUR ITINERARY DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI- Evening arrival in Delhi, capital of India. Its history goes back 2000 years. Few capitals in the world have as many ancient monuments as Delhi. THE IMPERIAL DAY 2: DELHI- Tour of New Delhi,

visiting the impressive Qutub Minar, a 234-ft sandstone tower and the Humayun’s Tomb, known as the first example of the Mughal imperial architecture. See the India Gate, Government buildings and presidential palace along the broad and majestic Rajpath. Visit the Gurudwara, Temple for the Sikh. Visit a local vegetable and spice market with our culinary expert Kingdom of Dreams

DAY 4: DELHI, AGRA- Start early to enjoy a brief walk around the Lodi Gardens and see 15th-16th century tombs and a beautifully decorated mosque amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. Tour Akshardham Temple, the largest Hindu temple complex in the world and discover the Crafts Museum. Drive to Agra visiting en route the Bahai Temple, popularly known as the Lotus Temple. (B) OBEROI AMARVILAS DAY 5: AGRA- The Taj Mahal, simply, is beauty - not just in design and technique, but in desire and intent. It was built as a monument to love, a manifestation of life’s most powerful emotion. It took world’s best craftsmen and about 20,000 workers, 20

Spa, Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur

TOUR PRICE INCLUDES • Round trip airport transfers in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver • Baggage handling of one piece checked bag per person at airports • 12 night hotel accommodations on sharing a double room or in a single room at the mentioned or similar hotels as per itinerary inclusive of any applicable room taxes and service charges • Meals as mentioned B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner on table d’hôte basis (Not A la Carte) • Tours with local Spanish speaking guides in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver • Entrance fee to monuments and included features • Internal air Jaipur/Jodhpur, Udaipur/Delhi in economy class • Tips/gratuities for drivers, guides, waiters at restaurants for included meals, airport transfer representatives, porters at airports and hotels.

to buy the vegetables, fruit, meat and spices available to be used in the cooking session. A special treat today is participating in a culinary experience at a local family home with dinner. (B, D) DAY 3: DELHI- Tour of Old Delhi to see

the Red Fort, a symbol of Mughal power and visit Chandni Chowk (old shopping street), the market area popular for glass bangles and silver jewelry. On return, visit Raj Ghat, a memorial to the great Mahatma Gandhi. This afternoon your lady guide will escort you to some upscale arty boutiques offering ethnic wear, home furnishings, jewelry, leather, ayurvedic beauty products, etc. Also, visit the Dilli Haat, a crafts bazaar showcasing the work of artisans from all over the country. Browse through the book stores, souvenir shops and art galleries at Khan Market. (B) 8

years to build this beautiful structure. Enjoy an extended visit to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. See marble inlay work known as Pietra Dura and visit a private collection of gems/ jewelry, tapestries and three dimensional embroideries (as mentioned in National Geographic magazine, *KOHINOOR). Also, visit an orphanage to meet the children and teachers. (B) DAY 6: AGRA, JAIPUR- Today drive to

Jaipur visiting en route Fatehpur Sikri, the once fabled Mughal capital that now lies quietly but wonderfully preserved. Also visit en route the ornate step wells at Abhaneri. Experience the flavors of Indian cinema at a local movie theatre for a short Bollywood movie. (B) OBEROI RAJVILAS DAY 7: JAIPUR- This morning riding on elegantly caparisoned elephants, we make our way to the Amber Fort to visit its palaces.

• 24/7 Concierge service • Mineral water and Soft Beverages on cars during tours and overland drives

TOUR PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE International airfare, passport and visa fee, insurance, any meals and transportation that is not part of the itinerary, foreign airport taxes, excess baggage charges, personal tips/ gratuities to waiters at restaurants for nonincluded meals, chamber maids, other hotel staff, beverages, laundry, phone calls, faxes, and any other such items of personal nature. india@worldviewtours.com www.worldviewtours.com


Textile Shop at Johari Bazar, Jaipur

NOTES PRICES ARE NETT, PLEASE ADD YOUR MARK UP ON THE SAME DELHI- RED FORT, AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE, LOTUS TEMPLE AND MOST MUSEUMS CLOSED ON MONDAYS AGRA- TAJ MAHAL IS CLOSED ON FRIDAYS

Tour the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, an old astronomical observatory and also see the ornate and elaborate Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds. Sample the artistic wealth of the region; cutting and polishing gemstones, hand block printing and tie-n-dye etc. See a demonstration on hand painting - the art of ‘Mehndi’ with natural ‘Henna’ powders. Enjoy a special authentic Indian dinner at 1135AD, Amber Palace. (B, D) DAY 8: JAIPUR, JODHPUR- Morning enjoy a Heritage walk, a unique way to explore the living traditions of the city. Later, visit Jal Mahal, a living museum, a former royal pleasure pavilion brought back to life and dedicated to Jaipur’s people and culture. Fly to Jodhpur. The 15th century city of Jodhpur, with its blend of modern and traditional buildings, stands at the edge of the Thar Desert. The city is totally dominated by a massive fort sprawled across 125 meter high hill known as Meherangarh Fort, founded by Rao Jodha in 1459. (B) TAJ UMAID BHAWAN PALACE DAY 9: JODHPUR- Morning sightseeing

tour of Jodhpur; we will visit the Meherangarh Fort, which was impregnable for the rocky base which is scraped on every side. Within the walls are royal palaces, with priceless jewels and a striking collection of arms. Also visit Jaswant Thada, the white marble memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II built in 1899 and the Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum. Late afternoon, take an excursion to Osian Camel Camp. Enjoy a sunset camel safari on the sand dunes followed by a Champagne Dinner with folk entertainment. (B, D)

DAY 10: JODHPUR, UDAIPUR- Drive to Udaipur visiting en route the beautiful Jain temple of Ranakpur. Built in white marble with exquisitely intricate carvings, the temple is unique in its architectural elegance. Meet the priest of the temple and attend an exclusive prayer ceremony. Enjoy elephant safari and lunch at Mountbatten Lodge in Ranakpur. The city of Udaipur stands in a valley amid green hills on the banks of the wide, steel blue Lake Pichola. Enjoy a sunset cruise on Lake Pichola with a visit to the Jagmandir Palace. (B, L) OBEROI UDAIVILAS DAY 11: UDAIPUR- Morning tour of

Udaipur, visiting the vast and exquisite City Palace of the Maharana. Amber, jade and colored glass gives the palace a sparkling, yet ethereal quality. See the Fateh Sagar Lake and visit the Jagdish Temple. Visit the Crystal Gallery, probably the largest private collection of crystal in the world. Also, visit the Seva Mandir Organization, a NGO which helps in natural resource development and health and women’s empowerment. Enjoy a walk through the bazaars of Udaipur to see the vegetable, spice, textile markets etc. (B)

TOUR EXTENSIONS Pre/Post Tour extensions are available to Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, Sri Lanka, Maldives, South India, beaches of Goa and Kovalam, Islands of Andaman and Lakshadweep, Darjeeling/Sikkim, Kerala and the backwaters, Ajanta/Ellora caves and Wildlife parks of Kanha/Bandhavgarh/ Pench/ Ranthambore, etc.

VISA For all travel to India one requires a MULTIPLE entry visa to India before the arrival, which can be obtained from Embassy of India in your country. Watch a Bollywood movie

DAY 12: UDAIPUR, DELHI- Transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi. This evening you are invited to a modern family home for a cocktail. Later, visit ‘Kingdom of Dreams’, a centre of Indian art, culture and heritage. Enjoy India’s first live entertainment and theatre with authentic dinner of a regional cuisine of India. (B, D) OBEROI GURGAON DAY 13: DEPART DELHI. Early morning transfer to the airport for your homebound flight. 9


Taj Mahal

PRESENCE OF THE PAST

14 Days

AN ARTFUL JOURNEY THROUGH NORTH INDIA Delhi • Agra • Jaipur • Udaipur • Aurangabad •Mumbai

TI BE T

DELHI JAIPUR

AGRA

NEPAL

UDAIPUR

INDIA AURANGABAD UM UM MUMBAI

Air Train Drive

Courtyard, Taj Rambagh Palace

10

Arrive Delhi Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays

Indian architecture is that vast tapestry of production of the Indian sub-continent that encompasses a multitude of expressions over space and time, transformed by the forces of history considered unique to the sub-continent, sometimes destroying, but most of the time absorbing. The result is an evolving range of architectural production that none the less retains a certain amount of continuity across history. India’s glorious monuments built by great dynasties of the past stand in proof of one of the greatest civilizations of the world. Indian arts and handicrafts have, since time immemorial, captivated the imagination of people worldwide. Every state in India boasts of an exclusivity and specialty, depending upon its historical influences, traditional skills, and raw materials. Indian artists are renowned for their dexterity in temple carvings, beautiful sculptures in stone, metal and wood, exquisite embroidery, elegantly designed jewelry, pottery and marble inlays. Traditional folk arts and crafts have a staggering variety from one region to another. This tour concentrates on the most amazing architectural masterpieces of ancient India and is a ‘connoisseur’s collection’ of many visual and performing art forms of North India with behind the scenes access to artists at work and private art collections.

Suite, Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai


Hall of Public Audiences, Agra Fort

Kailash Temple, Ellora Caves

NETT TOUR PRICES PER PERSON 01 OCT, 2011 – 31 MAR, 2012* Minimum 2 persons Double

US$ 9590

Single room supplement

US$ 4190

* Prices not valid for Christmas/New Year period Dec. 20-Jan. 10

TOUR ITINERARY DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI- Evening arrival in Delhi, capital of India. Its history goes back 2000 years. Few capitals in the world have as many ancient monuments as Delhi. THE IMPERIAL DAY 2: DELHI- Tour of New Delhi, visiting the impressive Qutub Minar, a 234-ft sandstone tower. Visit the Sanskriti museum of terracotta and sample a fine collection of polished clay pots, decorative tiles, mythological figures, relief panels, and animals from all over India. Also, visit the Humayun’s Tomb, known as the first example of the Mughal imperial architecture. See the India Gate, Government buildings and presidential palace along the broad and majestic Rajpath. Visit the Gurudwara, Temple for the Sikh. (B)

Kathak Dancers

15th-16th century tombs and a beautifully decorated mosque amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. Tour Akshardham Temple, the largest Hindu temple complex in the world and discover the Crafts Museum galleries displaying India’s rich tradition of handicrafts. Drive to Agra visiting en route the Bahai Temple, popularly known as the Lotus Temple. (B) OBEROI AMARVILAS DAY 5: AGRA- The Taj Mahal, simply, is beauty - not just in design and technique, but in desire and intent. It was built as a monument to love, a manifestation of life’s most powerful emotion. It took world’s best craftsmen and about 20,000 workers, 20 years to build this beautiful structure. Enjoy an extended visit to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. See marble inlay work known as Pietra Dura and visit a private collection of gems/ jewelry, tapestries and three dimensional

Miniature Painting, City Palace, Udaipur

TOUR PRICE INCLUDES • Round trip airport transfers in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver • Baggage handling of one piece checked bag per person at airports • 13 night hotel accommodations on sharing a double room or in a single room at the mentioned or similar hotels as per itinerary inclusive of any applicable room taxes and service charges • Meals as mentioned B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner on table d’hôte basis (Not A la Carte) • Tours with local Spanish speaking guides in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver • Entrance fee to monuments and included features • Internal air Jaipur/Udaipur/Mumbai/ Aurangabad/Mumbai in economy class • Tips/gratuities for drivers, guides, waiters at restaurants for included meals, airport transfer representatives, porters at airports and hotels. • 24/7 Concierge service • Mineral water and Soft Beverages on cars during tours and overland drives

DAY 3: DELHI- Tour of Old Delhi to see the Red Fort, a symbol of Mughal power and visit Chandni Chowk (old shopping street), the market area popular for glass bangles and silver jewelry. On return, visit Raj Ghat, a memorial to the great Mahatma Gandhi. Visit the National Museum, exhibiting both pre-historic and modern work of art followed by a meeting with the curator. Later, visit some private art galleries. This evening you are invited to a modern family home for a cocktail. Later, visit ‘Kingdom of Dreams’, a centre of Indian art, culture and heritage. Enjoy India’s first live entertainment and theatre with authentic dinner of a regional cuisine of India. (B, D) DAY 4: DELHI, AGRA- Start early to enjoy a brief walk around the Lodi Gardens and see

embroideries (as mentioned in National Geographic magazine, *KOHINOOR). Enjoy another perspective of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh, situated on the opposite bank of the Taj Mahal. Evening enjoy a lecture from a regional expert on the ‘Art and Architecture’ of Taj Mahal. (B) DAY 6: AGRA, JAIPUR- Today drive to Jaipur visiting en route Fatehpur Sikri, the once fabled Mughal capital that now lies quietly but wonderfully preserved. Also visit en route the ornate step wells at Abhaneri. Experience the flavors of Indian cinema at a local movie theatre for a short Bollywood movie. (B) TAJ RAMBAGH PALACE DAY 7: JAIPUR- This morning riding on elegantly caparisoned elephants, we make our way to the Amber Fort to visit

TOUR PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE International airfare, passport and visa fee, insurance, any meals and transportation that is not part of the itinerary, foreign airport taxes, excess baggage charges, personal tips/gratuities to waiters at restaurants for non-included meals, chamber maids, other hotel staff, beverages, laundry, phone calls, faxes, and any other such items of personal nature.

india@worldviewtours.com www.worldviewtours.com 11


NOTES

Jain Temple, Ranakpur

PRICES ARE NETT, PLEASE ADD YOUR MARK UP ON THE SAME DELHI- RED FORT, AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE, LOTUS TEMPLE AND MOST MUSEUMS CLOSED ON MONDAYS AGRA- TAJ MAHAL IS CLOSED ON FRIDAYS AURANGABAD- AJANTA CAVES ARE CLOSED ON MONDAYS AND ELLORA CAVES ARE CLOSED ON TUESDAYS its palaces. Tour the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, an old astronomical observatory and also see the ornate and elaborate Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds. Sample the artistic wealth of the region; cutting and polishing gemstones, art of making blue pottery, hand block printing and tie-n-dye etc. See a demonstration on hand painting - the art of ‘Mehndi’ with natural ‘Henna’ powders. Enjoy a special authentic Indian dinner at 1135AD, Amber Palace. (B, D) DAY 8: JAIPUR, UDAIPUR- Morning enjoy a Heritage walk, a unique way to explore the living traditions of the city. Later, visit Jal Mahal, a living museum, a former royal pleasure pavilion brought back to life and dedicated to Jaipur’s people and culture. Fly to Udaipur. (B) TAJ LAKE PALACE DAY 9: UDAIPUR- Day excursion to the beautiful Jain temple of Ranakpur. Built in white marble with exquisitely intricate carvings, the temple is unique in its architectural elegance. Meet the priest of the temple and attend an exclusive prayer ceremony. Enjoy elephant safari and lunch at Mountbatten Lodge in Ranakpur. Take a sunset cruise on Lake Pichola with a visit to the Jagmandir Palace. (B, L) DAY 10: UDAIPUR, AURANGABADMorning tour of Udaipur, visiting the vast and exquisite City Palace of the Maharana. See the Fateh Sagar Lake and visit the Jagdish Temple. Visit the Crystal Gallery, probably the largest private collection of crystal in the world. Fly via Mumbai to Aurangabad, base for our explorations to the Ajanta and Ellora caves. (B) TAJ RESIDENCY DAY 11: AURANGABAD- Today we will visit Ajanta. Buddhist monks stayed for centuries carving 29 caves into a horseshoe-shaped cliff on the Waghora River. Completed around the 7th century A. D, these masterpieces were lost for centuries until a British hunting party stumbled upon them in 1819. These dramatically cut caves contain some of India’s 12

most magnificent paintings. Later we will sample the characteristic and unique, Himroo Art. (B) DAY 12: AURANGABAD, MUMBAIEllora is a short drive from Aurangabad and we will take the morning to visit the temples there. Stonecutters removed an estimated 200,000 tons of rock to build the 34 caves. With statues, columns and decorative facades, these temples are a wonder of ancient art. Over 2000 years old, they have been compared to the Pyramids for their amazing construction. The highlight of the 34 caves is the mighty Kailash Temple, the zenith of Hindu rock-cut temple architecture. Fly to Mumbai, the commercial capital of India. (B) TAJ MAHAL PALACE DAY 13: MUMBAI- Morning enjoy a walking tour of the British Heritage District and experience daily life in Mumbai. See the legendary ‘dabba-wallahs’, members of the Mumbai Tiffin Box Suppliers Association. Every day, some 4,000 of these members deliver fresh home-cooked food from 100,000 suburban kitchens to offices in the downtown area. Continue on to Kala Ghoda, a crescent shaped sub-precinct that has a distinct visual identity as it houses a fine collection of heritage structures in Victorian Neo-Gothic, Indo Saracenic, Renaissance Revival and Edwardian Neo Classical styles. Visit the Jehangir Art Gallery, the most famous in Mumbai, built in 1952 Afternoon tour of Mumbai includes visit to Gateway of India, a 85 feet high gateway overlooking the sea. Also, visit the Prince of Wales museum. Tour continues to visit the Gandhi Museum, the world heritage Victoria Terminus and the dhobi ghats (public laundry). Drive through the Marine Drive, Bombay University and High courts, on to Hanging gardens and Flora Fountain, a center of all business activities. DAY 14: DEPART MUMBAI- Early

morning transfer to the airport for your homebound flight.

MUMBAI- MOST MUSUEMS ARE CLOSED ON MONDAYS

TOUR EXTENSIONS Pre/Post Tour extensions are available to Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, Sri Lanka, Maldives, South India, beaches of Goa and Kovalam, Islands of Andaman and Lakshadweep, Darjeeling/Sikkim, Kerala and the backwaters and Wildlife parks of Kanha/ Bandhavgarh/Pench/ Ranthambore, etc.

VISA For all travel to India one requires a MULTIPLE entry visa to India before the arrival, which can be obtained from Embassy of India in your country. Saree Shop at Hawa Mahal, Jaipur


Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

RAJASTHAN IN STYLE

14 Days

Forts, PALACES & COUNTRYHOMES Delhi • Nagaur •Jaisalmer • Jodhpur •Udaipur • Jaipur •Agra

TI BE T NAGAUR JAISALMER

DELHI

NEPAL JAIPUR

AGRA

JODHPUR

Arrive Delhi Mondays Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays

For many, Rajasthan is the very essence of India, with crenellated forts and impregnable palaces that rise like giant fairy-tale sets above dusty sun-scorched plains and shimmering lakes. India’s second-largest state, similar in size to France, is largely covered by the everencroaching Thar Desert. Despite its aridity, Rajasthan was once and still is remarkably prosperous:Traders from as far as Persia and China had to cross its dry plains to reach the southern ports of Gujarat, something the warrior princes of Rajasthan were quick to capitalize on.Today the principal attraction of Rajasthan, the post-independence name for Rajputana, literally “land of princes”, is the large variety of forts and palaces its aristocrats built throughout the centuries, making it one of the most popular destinations in India.

UDAIPUR

INDIA MUMBAI

Air ........................ Drive

Lobby, Taj Rambagh Palace, Jaipur

Rajasthan is a land of miniature paintings, fairs, forts and palaces of breathtaking charm that add to its grandeur and mysticism.You will see and photograph small villages, people, homes, farms, camels, elephants, palaces, forts, exotic bazaars, walled cities, minarets, tombs, mosques, temples, churches and other historic sites. Photography opportunities in India cannot be surpassed and your biggest decision will be ‘what not to photograph!’ Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

The Serai, Jaisalmer

13


Devigarh Fort Palace

Private Dining, Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

NETT TOUR PRICES PER PERSON 01 OCT, 2011 – 31 MAR, 2012* Minimum 2 persons Double

US$ 8390

Single room supplement

US$ 3990

* Prices not valid for Christmas/New Year period Dec. 20-Jan. 10

TOUR ITINERARY DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI- Evening arrival in Delhi, capital of India. Its history goes back 2000 years. Few capitals in the world have as many ancient monuments as Delhi. THE IMPERIAL DAY 2: DELHI- Tour of New Delhi,

visiting the impressive Qutub Minar, a 234-ft sandstone tower and visit the Humayun’s Tomb, known as the first example of the Mughal imperial architecture. See the India Gate, Government buildings and presidential palace along the broad and majestic Rajpath. Visit the Gurudwara, Temple for the Sikh. Enjoy a brief walk around the Lodi Gardens and see 15th-16th century tombs and a beautifully decorated mosque amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. (B) DAY 3: DELHI- Tour of Old Delhi to see

the Red Fort, a symbol of Mughal power and visit Chandni Chowk (old shopping City Palace, Udaipur

DAY 4: DELHI, JODHPUR, NAGAUR-

Fly to Jodhpur and continue on your drive to Nagaur. The Nagaur Fort and Palace complex, dating back to 4th century, has passed through the hands of Mughal Emperors to the Maharaja of Jodhpur, with whom it remains today. His Highness Maharaja Gaj Singh II has dedicated the last 20 years, along with the Mehrangarh Museum Trust, The Getty Foundation and the Lady Helen Hamlyn Trust, to the meticulous restoration of this magnificent heritage property. Within the fort lies RANVAS, the 18th century regal residence of the Queens, impeccably restored and transformed into a fine resort with elegantly appointed havelis (mansions). Afternoon explore the Ahhichatragarh Fort, walk the bazaars of old Nagaur and enjoy a horse- back or jeep ride as we visit the nearby villages and temples. (B) RANVAS Stone carved windows, Jaisalmer

TOUR PRICE INCLUDES • Round trip airport transfers in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver • Baggage handling of one piece checked bag per person at airports • 13 night hotel accommodations on sharing a double room or in a single room at the mentioned or similar hotels as per itinerary inclusive of any applicable room taxes and service charges • Meals as mentioned B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner on table d’hôte basis (Not A la Carte) • Tours with local Spanish speaking guides in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver • Entrance fee to monuments and included features • Internal air Delhi/Jodhpur, Udaipur/ Jaipur in economy class • Tips/gratuities for drivers, guides, waiters at restaurants for included meals, airport transfer representatives, porters at airports and hotels. • 24/7 Concierge service • Mineral water and Soft Beverages on cars during tours and overland drives

street), the market area popular for glass bangles and silver jewelry. On return, visit Raj Ghat, a memorial to the great Mahatma Gandhi. Tour Akshardham Temple, the largest Hindu temple complex in the world and discover the Crafts Museum galleries displaying India’s rich tradition of handicrafts. This evening you are invited to a modern family home for a cocktail. Later, visit ‘Kingdom of Dreams’, a centre of Indian art, culture and heritage. Enjoy India’s first live entertainment and theatre with authentic dinner of a regional cuisine of India. (B, D) 14

DAY 5: NAGAUR, JAISALMER- Drive to

Jaisalmer, also known as ‘Golden city’, for the color imparted to the stone ramparts of the Fort by the setting suns. The city is an endless vista of sand and cacti, broken by a solitary camel in the horizon. Yet this desert fortress is straight out of the Tales of Arabian Nights and you could easily be forgiven for imagining that you have been transported back to medieval Afghanistan. (B) THE SERAI DAY 6: JAISALMER- Tour of the 12century Jaisalmer fort, also known as the ‘living fort’ which houses one-fourth of the

TOUR PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE International airfare, passport and visa fee, insurance, any meals and transportation that is not part of the itinerary, foreign airport taxes, excess baggage charges, personal tips/ gratuities to waiters at restaurants for nonincluded meals, chamber maids, other hotel staff, beverages, laundry, phone calls, faxes, and any other such items of personal nature.

india@worldviewtours.com www.worldviewtours.com


Camel ride on the dunes

NOTES PRICES ARE NETT, PLEASE ADD YOUR MARK UP ON THE SAME DELHI- RED FORT, AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE, LOTUS TEMPLE AND MOST MUSEUMS CLOSED ON MONDAYS AGRA- TAJ MAHAL IS CLOSED ON FRIDAYS

population of Jaisalmer and visit the Jain temples within the fort walls. Also visit Gadsisar Lake, the water reservoir which was once the water supply of the city and has many small temples and shrines around it. Explore some of the popular Havelis or ‘mansions’ such as Patwon- ki- Haveli, Salim Singh- ki- Haveli and Nathmal- ki- Haveli. Enjoy a sunset camel ride on the dunes. (B) DAY 7: JAISALMER, JODHPUR- Drive to Jodhpur. The 15th century city of Jodhpur, with its blend of modern and traditional buildings, stands at the edge of the Thar Desert. The city is totally dominated by a massive fort sprawled across 125 meter high hill known as Meherangarh Fort, founded by Rao Jodha in 1459. Tour of the Meherangarh Fort, which was impregnable for the rocky base, which is scraped on every side. Within the walls are royal palaces, with priceless jewels and a striking collection of arms. Also, visit Jaswant Thada, the white marble memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II built in 1899 and the Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum. (B) TAJ UMAID BHAWAN PALACE DAY 8: JODHPUR, UDAIPUR- Drive to

Udaipur visiting en route the beautiful Jain temple of Ranakpur. Built in white marble with exquisitely intricate carvings, the temple is unique in its architectural elegance. Meet the priest of the temple and attend an exclusive prayer ceremony. Enjoy elephant safari and lunch at Mountbatten (B, L) TAJ LAKE PALACE DAY 9: UDAIPUR- Morning tour of

Udaipur, visiting the vast and exquisite City Palace of the Maharana. See the Fateh Sagar Lake and visit the Jagdish Temple. Visit the Crystal Gallery, probably the largest private collection of crystal in the world. Enjoy a sunset cruise on Lake Pichola with a visit to the Jagmandir Palace. (B) DAY 10: UDAIPUR, JAIPUR- Fly to Jaipur, the rose-pink capital of Rajasthan. Enjoy a Heritage walk, a unique way to explore the

living traditions of the city. Experience the flavors of Indian cinema at a local movie theatre for a short Bollywood movie. (B) TAJ RAMBAGH PALACE DAY 11: JAIPUR- This morning riding

on elegantly caparisoned elephants, we make our way to the Amber Fort to visit its palaces. Later, visit Jal Mahal, a living museum, a former royal pleasure pavilion brought back to life and dedicated to Jaipur’s people and culture. Tour the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, an old astronomical observatory and also see the ornate and elaborate Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds. Sample the artistic wealth of the region; cutting and polishing gemstones, art of making blue pottery, hand block printing and tie-n-dye etc. Enjoy a special authentic Indian dinner at 1135AD, Amber Palace. (B, D)

TOUR EXTENSIONS Pre/Post Tour extensions are available to Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, Sri Lanka, Maldives, South India, beaches of Goa and Kovalam, Islands of Andaman and Lakshadweep, Darjeeling/Sikkim, Kerala and the backwaters, Aurangabad- Ajanta & Ellora caves, Mumbai and Wildlife parks of Ranthambore/Kanha/ Bandhavgarh/Pench, etc.

VISA For all travel to India one requires a MULTIPLE entry visa to India before the arrival, which can be obtained from Embassy of India in your country.

Vintage Car, Taj Rambagh Palace, Jaipur

DAY 12: JAIPUR, AGRA- Today drive to

Agra visiting en route Fatehpur Sikri, the once fabled Mughal capital that now lies quietly but wonderfully preserved. Also visit en route the ornate step wells at Abhaneri. Visit a private collection of gems/ jewelry, tapestries and three dimensional embroideries (as mentioned in National Geographic magazine, *KOHINOOR). (B) OBEROI AMARVILAS DAY 13: AGRA, DELHI- The Taj Mahal,

simply, is beauty - not just in design and technique, but in desire and intent. It was built as a monument to love, a manifestation of life’s most powerful emotion. It took world’s best craftsmen and about 20,000 workers, 20 years to build this beautiful structure. Enjoy an extended visit to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. See marble inlay work known as Pietra Dura. Afternoon drive to Delhi visiting en route the Bahai Temple, popularly known as Lotus Temple. (B) OBEROI GURGAON DAY 14. DEPART DELHI. Early

morning transfer to the airport for your homebound flight. 15


Holy River Ganges Varanasi

Temples, Tigers & Taj Mahal

15 Days

Delhi • Agra • Ranthambore National Park •Jaipur •Khajuraho •Bandhavgarh National Park •Varanasi

TI BE T

DELHI

NEPAL AGRA

JAIPUR RANTHAMBORE

ORCHHA

VARANASI

KHAJURAHO BANDHAVGARH

INDIA MUMBAI

Air ....................... Train Drive

Lobby, Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

16

Arrive Delhi Daily except Tuesdays

From the modern capital city of New Delhi to the breathtaking vistas of Rajasthan, expect to be swept away by the vibrant and breathtaking beauty. Marvel at the opulent forts and palaces of Jaipur and admire the genius of Mughal architecture in Agra, the Taj Mahal. Explore the elaborate Hindu temple complex in Khajuraho and witness the Hindu rituals in Varanasi. Come experience the unparalleled beauty of the Indian jungle in the National Parks of Ranthambore and Bandhvagarh. With its towering, ancient trees, enchanting chorus of forest birds, and herds of gentle chital, this is a travel experience unlike any other. Test your spotting skills as our naturalists take you on exhilarating game drives. Look out for the shy sambar (large forest deer), journey through ever-changing habitats and, if luck is on your side, catch a glimpse of India’s most famous and endangered predator, the Bengal tiger.

Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur

Room, Taj Mahua Kothi, Bandhavgarh


Lotus Temple, Delhi

Game drive in Bandhavgarh N.P

NETT TOUR PRICES PER PERSON 01 OCT, 2011 – 31 MAR, 2012* Minimum 2 persons Double Single room supplement

US$ 10590 US$ 3990

* Prices not valid for Christmas/New Year period Dec. 20-Jan. 10

TOUR ITINERARY DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI- Evening arrival in Delhi, capital of India. Its history goes back 2000 years. Few capitals in the world have as many ancient monuments as Delhi. THE OBEROI DAY 2: DELHI- Tour of New Delhi, visiting the impressive Qutub Minar, a 234ft sandstone tower and the Humayun’s Tomb, known as the first example of the Mughal imperial architecture. See the India Gate, Government buildings and presidential palace along the broad and majestic Rajpath. Visit the Gurudwara, Temple for the Sikh. Enjoy a brief walk around the Lodi Gardens and see 15th16th century tombs and a beautifully decorated mosque amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. (B) Evening prayer ceremony, River Ganges

build this beautiful structure. Enjoy an extended visit to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. See marble inlay work known as Pietra Dura and visit a private collection of gems/jewelry, tapestries and three dimensional embroideries (as mentioned in National Geographic magazine, *KOHINOOR). Enjoy another perspective of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh, situated on the opposite bank of the Taj Mahal. (B) OBEROI AMARVILAS DAY 5: AGRA, RANTHAMBORE- Today drive to Ranthambore National Park in search of the elusive tiger visiting en route Fatehpur Sikri, the once fabled Mughal capital that now lies quietly but wonderfully preserved. Ranthambore National Park encompasses nearly 152 square miles of dry deciduous forest in south- eastern Rajasthan. It is famous for its tigers and is a favorite with photographers. Besides the tiger, City Palace, Jaipur

TOUR PRICE INCLUDES • Round trip airport transfers in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver • Baggage handling of one piece checked bag per person at airports • 14 night hotel accommodations on sharing a double room or in a single room at the mentioned or similar hotels as per itinerary inclusive of any applicable room taxes and service charges • Meals as mentioned B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner on table d’hôte basis (Not A la Carte) • Tours with local Spanish speaking guides in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver • Entrance fee to monuments and included features • Internal air Jaipur/Delhi/Khajuraho/ Varanasi/Delhi in economy class • Tips/gratuities for drivers, guides, waiters at restaurants for included meals, airport transfer representatives, porters at airports and hotels. • 24/7 Concierge service • Mineral water and Soft Beverages on cars during tours and overland drives

DAY 3: DELHI- Tour of Old Delhi to see the Red Fort, a symbol of Mughal power and visit Chandni Chowk (old shopping street), the market area popular for glass bangles and silver jewelry. On return, visit Raj Ghat, a memorial to the great Mahatma Gandhi. Tour Akshardham Temple, the largest Hindu temple complex in the world and discover the Crafts Museum galleries displaying India’s rich tradition of handicrafts. (B) DAY 4: DELHI, AGRA- Morning first class train ride to Agra. The Taj Mahal, simply, is beauty - not just in design and technique, but in desire and intent. It was built as a monument to love, a manifestation of life’s most powerful emotion. It took world’s best craftsmen and about 20,000 workers, 20 years to

other predators found in Ranthambore are leopard, striped hyena, jackal, caracal and jungle cat (B) OBEROI VANYAVILAS DAY 6: RANTHAMBORE- Morning and afternoon nature drive into the Park by park vehicle. Visit the Ranthambore School of Art, which have revolutionized the concept of wildlife paintings. Later, visit the Dastkar’s Project, a society for crafts and craftspeople. (B) DAY 7: RANTHAMBORE, JAIPUR- Drive to Jaipur, the rose-pink capital of Rajasthan. Afternoon take a Heritage walk through old walled city of Jaipur, a unique way to explore the living traditions of the city. Experience the flavors of Indian cinema at a local movie theatre for a short Bollywood movie. (B) OBEROI RAJVILAS

TOUR PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE International airfare, passport and visa fee, insurance, any meals and transportation that is not part of the itinerary, foreign airport taxes, excess baggage charges, personal tips/gratuities to waiters at restaurants for non-included meals, chamber maids, other hotel staff, beverages, laundry, phone calls, faxes, and any other such items of personal nature. india@worldviewtours.com www.worldviewtours.com 17


Royal Bengal Tiger

NOTES PRICES ARE NETT, PLEASE ADD YOUR MARK UP ON THE SAME DELHI- RED FORT, AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE, LOTUS TEMPLE AND MOST MUSEUMS CLOSED ON MONDAYS AGRA- TAJ MAHAL IS CLOSED ON FRIDAYS RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK/BANDHAVGARH NATIONAL PARK IS CLOSED DURING MONSOONS: JULY 01SEPTEMBER 30

DAY 8: JAIPUR- This morning riding on elegantly caparisoned elephants, we make our way to the Amber Fort to visit its palaces. Later, visit Jal Mahal, a living museum, a former royal pleasure pavilion brought back to life and dedicated to Jaipur’s people and culture. Tour the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, an old astronomical observatory and also see the ornate and elaborate Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds. Sample the artistic wealth of the region; cutting and polishing gemstones, art of making blue pottery, hand block printing and tie-n-dye etc. See a demonstration on hand painting - the art of ‘Mehndi’ with natural ‘Henna’ powders. Enjoy a special authentic Indian dinner at 1135AD, Amber Palace. (B, D) DAY 9: JAIPUR, DELHI, KHAJURAHOMorning fly to Khajuraho via Delhi. Khajuraho is known for its magnificent temples, which are among the most creative examples of Indian architecture. The temples here are known for their symmetry and design, and also for their intricate and erotic carvings on their walls. This afternoon we will explore the western and eastern group of temples. Evening witness a Classical Indian Music and Dance show. (B) LALIT TEMPLE VIEW DAY 10: KHAJURAHO, BANDHAVGARH. Today drive to Bandhavgarh National Park. Set among the Vindhya Hills of Madhya Pradesh with an area of 168 square miles, this national park contains a wide variety of habitats and high density of game, including a large number of tigers. In addition to tigers, also seen are chousingha (small four horned) antelope, chinkara (Indian) gazelle, nilgai (blue bull) antelope, wild boar, jackal, muntjak (barking) deer, sambar deer, chital (spotted) deer, jungle cat, striped hyena, porcupine, ratel, rheses 18

macaque, black-faced langur monkey and more. Morning nature drive into the Park by park vehicle. TAJ MAHUA KOTHI (B, L, D) DAY 11: BANDHAVGARH- Morning and afternoon nature drive into the Park by park vehicle. (B, L, D) DAY 12: BANDHAVGARH- Morning and afternoon nature drive into the Park by park vehicle. (B, L, D) DAY 13: BANDHAVGARH, KHAJURAHO, VARANASI. Morning drive to Khajuraho and connect flight to Varanasi. With its array of shrines, temples and palaces, rising in several tiers from the water’s edge, Varanasi is the holiest city for Hindus. Visit Sarnath, the site where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon. Witness evening prayer ceremonies on a sunset cruise along the Ganges River. (B) TAJ NADESAR PALACE DAY 14: VARANASI, DELHI. Early morning boat ride on the Ganges River. Thousands of devout Hindus descend to the holy waters of the Ganges for purification. After breakfast sightseeing tour of the city will include visit to Bharat Mata relief map of India and drive through the Benares Hindu University, one of the oldest universities of India. Later fly to Delhi. This evening you are invited to a modern family home for a cocktail. Later, visit ‘Kingdom of Dreams’, a centre of Indian art, culture and heritage. Enjoy India’s first live entertainment and theatre with authentic dinner of a regional cuisine of India. (B) OBEROI GURGAON DAY 15: DEPART DELHI. Early morning transfer to the airport for your homebound flight.

TOUR EXTENSIONS Pre/Post Tour extensions are available to Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, Sri Lanka, Maldives, South India, beaches of Goa and Kovalam, Islands of Andaman and Lakshadweep, Darjeeling/Sikkim, Kerala and the backwaters, Aurangabad- Ajanta & Ellora caves, Mumbai and Wildlife parks of Kanha/Pench, etc.

VISA For all travel to India one requires a MULTIPLE entry visa to India before the arrival, which can be obtained from Embassy of India in your country. Khajuraho Temple


Private cruise on Lake Pichola, Udaipur

ETERNAL ROMANCE OF INDIA

13 Days

HONEYMOON SPECIAL Delhi • Agra • Ranthambore National Park • Jaipur • Udaipur

TI BE T

DELHI

NEPAL JAIPUR AGRA RANTHAMBORE UDAIPUR

INDIA

MUMBAI

Heritage Room, Imperial, Delhi

Air Train Drive

Arrive Delhi Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays

Together experience the treasures of India- impossibly beautiful and irresistibly romantic. This is a tour designed for that discriminating traveler who wants and expects only the best.You will experience India in a high-quality tour. Stay in India’s Luxury Premier Hotels with each hotel crowning a distinctive character and style. Pamper and indulge yourself with activities which will always make you feel fantastic including spa massage service, dinner for both of you at a private location, enjoy a elephant safari into the countryside, short hike or trek into the nature’s lap, vintage car rides, see an Indian movie at a local theatre, appreciate a private art collection, visit upscale boutique stores, see a music and dance show, visit a local family home to meet the local people, etc. What better time and place to plan a surprise and express your love for your loved ones! Just ask us to pre- arrange flowers, champagne or wine, chocolates, cakes, souvenirs, exclusive dining, room upgrades, Indian style wedding etc. Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

Luxury Tent, Oberoi Vanyavilas, Ranthambore

19


A traditional welcome

Royal Bengal Tiger

NETT TOUR PRICES PER PERSON 01 OCT, 2011 – 31 MAR, 2012* Minimum 2 persons

Double

US$ 8290

* Prices not valid for Christmas/New Year period Dec. 20-Jan. 10

TOUR ITINERARY DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI- Evening arrival in Delhi, capital of India. Its history goes back 2000 years. Few capitals in the world have as many ancient monuments as Delhi. THE IMPERIAL DAY 2: DELHI- Tour of New Delhi, visiting the impressive Qutub Minar, a 234-ft sandstone tower and the Humayun’s Tomb, known as the first example of the Mughal imperial architecture. See the India Gate, Government buildings and presidential palace along the broad and majestic Rajpath. Visit the Gurudwara, Temple for the Sikh. Enjoy a brief walk around the Lodi Gardens and see 15th-16th century tombs and a beautifully decorated mosque amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. (B) Taj Mahal at sunrise

DAY 5: AGRA- The Taj Mahal, simply, is beauty - not just in design and technique, but in desire and intent. It was built as a monument to love, a manifestation of life’s most powerful emotion. It took world’s best craftsmen and about 20,000 workers, 20 years to build this beautiful structure. Enjoy an extended visit to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. See marble inlay work known as Pietra Dura and visit a private collection of gems/ jewelry, tapestries and three dimensional embroideries (as mentioned in National Geographic magazine, *KOHINOOR). Enjoy another perspective of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh, situated on the opposite bank of the Taj Mahal. (B) DAY 6: AGRA, RANTHAMBOREToday drive to Ranthambore National Park in search of the elusive tiger visiting Yoga at Oberoi Rajvilas

TOUR PRICE INCLUDES • Round trip airport transfers in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver • Baggage handling of one piece checked bag per person at airports • 12 night hotel accommodations on sharing a double room at the mentioned or similar hotels as per itinerary inclusive of any applicable room taxes and service charges • Meals as mentioned B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner on table d’hôte basis (Not A la Carte) • Tours with local Spanish speaking guides in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver • Entrance fee to monuments and included features • Internal air Jaipur/Udaipur/Delhi in economy class • Two 30-minute Spa massages at the Oberoi Spa in Jaipur and Udaipur • Tips/gratuities for drivers, guides, waiters at restaurants for included meals, airport transfer representatives, porters at airports and hotels. • 24/7 Concierge service

DAY 3: DELHI- Tour of Old Delhi to see the Red Fort, a symbol of Mughal power and visit Chandni Chowk (old shopping street), the market area popular for glass bangles and silver jewelry. On return, visit Raj Ghat, a memorial to the great Mahatma Gandhi. This evening you are invited to a modern family home for a cocktail. Later, visit ‘Kingdom of Dreams’, a centre of Indian art, culture and heritage. Enjoy India’s first live entertainment and theatre with authentic dinner of a regional cuisine of India. (B, D) DAY 4: DELHI, AGRA- Drive to Agra visiting en route the Bahai Temple, popularly known as the Lotus Temple. (B) OBEROI AMARVILAS 20

en route Fatehpur Sikri, the once fabled Mughal capital that now lies quietly but wonderfully preserved. Ranthambore National Park encompasses nearly 152 square miles of dry deciduous forest in south- eastern Rajasthan. It is famous for its tigers and is a favorite with photographers. For a relatively small area, the park has a rich diversity of fauna and flora - species list includes 300 trees, 50 aquatic plants, 272 birds, 12 reptiles (including the marsh crocodile) and amphibians and 30 mammals. Besides the tiger, other predators found in Ranthambore are leopard, striped hyena, jackal, caracal and jungle cat. Also seen are sloth bear, sambar deer, chital (spotted) deer, nilgai (blue bull) antelope, wild boar,

• Mineral water and Soft Beverages on cars during tours and overland drives

TOUR PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE International airfare, passport and visa fee, insurance, any meals and transportation that is not part of the itinerary, foreign airport taxes, excess baggage charges, personal tips/gratuities to waiters at restaurants for non-included meals, chamber maids, other hotel staff, beverages, laundry, phone calls, faxes, and any other such items of personal nature. india@worldviewtours.com www.worldviewtours.com


Spa, Oberoi Vanyavilas, Ranthambore

ADDITIONAL VALUE ADD-ONS (at Oberoi Amarvilas, Oberoi Rajvilas and Oberoi Udaivilas) • Traditional welcome, complete with aarti, tikka and garland. • Special Turndown honeymoon services including: • A Rose petal bath surrounded with decorative candles. • A special cake or a platter of assorted chocolates in the room. • A beautiful floral arrangement in the room.

chinkara (Indian) gazelle, Indian hare, mongoose, common langur, palm civet, palm squirrel, porcupine and monitor lizard. (B) OBEROI VANYAVILAS DAY 7: RANTHAMBORE- Morning and afternoon nature drive into the Park by park vehicle. Visit the Ranthambore School of Art, which have revolutionized the concept of wildlife paintings. Later, visit the Dastkar’s Project, a society for crafts and craftspeople. (B) DAY 8: RANTHAMBORE, JAIPURDrive to Jaipur, the rose-pink capital of Rajasthan. Experience the traditional ‘Aarti’ (prayer) at the ancient Shiva Temple within the hotel followed by a rejuvenating spa therapy (30 minutes) at the Oberoi Spa. (B) OBEROI RAJVILAS DAY 9: JAIPUR- This morning riding on elegantly caparisoned elephants, we make our way to the Amber Fort to visit its palaces. Tour the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, an old astronomical observatory and also see the ornate and elaborate Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds. Sample the artistic wealth of the region; cutting and polishing gemstones, art of making blue pottery, hand block printing and tie-n-dye etc. See a demonstration on hand painting - the art of ‘Mehndi’ with natural ‘Henna’ powders. Enjoy a special authentic Indian dinner at 1135AD, Amber Palace. (B, D) DAY 10: JAIPUR, UDAIPUR- Morning enjoy a Yoga session at the hotel. Take a Heritage walk through old walled city of Jaipur, a unique way to explore the living traditions of the city. Experience the spiritual

side of the locals by visiting colorful temples, interact with residents over a cup of tea in their homes and discover some of the architectural wonders of this fascinating area of Jaipur. Later, visit Jal Mahal, a living museum, a former royal pleasure pavilion brought back to life and dedicated to Jaipur’s people and culture. Fly to Udaipur. The city of Udaipur stands in a valley amid green hills on the banks of the wide, steel blue Lake Pichola. (B) OBEROI UDAIVILAS DAY 11: UDAIPUR- Day excursion to the beautiful Jain temple of Ranakpur. Built in white marble with exquisitely intricate carvings, the temple is unique in its architectural elegance. Meet the priest of the temple and attend an exclusive prayer ceremony. Enjoy elephant safari and lunch at Mountbatten Lodge in Ranakpur. Take a sunset cruise on Lake Pichola with a visit to the Jagmandir Palace. Enjoy a thirty minutes soothing back massage for the couple at the Oberoi spa. (B, L) DAY 12: UDAIPUR, DELHI- Morning enjoy a Yoga session at the hotel. Morning tour of Udaipur, visiting the vast and exquisite City Palace of the Maharana. Amber, jade and colored glass gives the palace a sparkling, yet ethereal quality. See the Fateh Sagar Lake and visit the Jagdish Temple. Visit the Crystal Gallery, probably the largest private collection of crystal in the world. Fly to Delhi. (B) OBEROI GURGAON

NOTES PRICES ARE NETT, PLEASE ADD YOUR MARK UP ON THE SAME DELHI- RED FORT, AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE, LOTUS TEMPLE AND MOST MUSEUMS CLOSED ON MONDAYS AGRA- TAJ MAHAL IS CLOSED ON FRIDAYS RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK IS CLOSED DURING MONSOONS: JULY 01- SEPTEMBER 30

TOUR EXTENSIONS Pre/Post Tour extensions are available to Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, Sri Lanka, Maldives, South India, beaches of Goa and Kovalam, Islands of Andaman and Lakshadweep, Darjeeling/Sikkim, Kerala and the backwaters, Aurangabad- Ajanta & Ellora caves, Mumbai and Wildlife parks of Kanha/Bandhavgarh/Pench, etc.

VISA For all travel to India one requires a MULTIPLE entry visa to India before the arrival, which can be obtained from Embassy of India in your country. Elephant ride at Amber Fort, Jaipur

DAY 13: DEPART DELHI. Early morning transfer to the airport for your homebound flight.

21


Lagoon Villa, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives

EXOTIC INDIA AND MALDIVES

14 Days

HONEYMOON SPECIAL Delhi TI BE•TAgra • Jaipur • Udaipur • Bangalore • Maldives

DELHI

NEPAL JAIPUR

AGRA UDAIPUR

INDIA MUMBAI

Air Train Drive

MALE

22

From an engagement to a glorious honeymoon and anniversaries, treasure each occasion with a celebration at some of the finest hotels in the India. Luxurious interiors, exotic cuisines and gracious service combine to create a memorable vacation full of delightful surprises for you. Receive a traditional welcome, spa experiences, special evening amenities with floral bath, assorted chocolates and more. The Maldives Islands offer an ultimate sun, sand and sea experience. Enjoy the infinite massive lagoons with water of infinite shades of blue; dazzling underwater coral gardens and the warm tropical breezes. Experience excellent diving and sheltered snorkeling around the shallows, exclusive trips to a private island and float elegantly on sparkling shallow lagoon waters. Relax in beautiful spas, enjoy gourmet restaurants, swimming pool and a variety of water sports. Interior, Lagoon Villa, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives

BANGALORE

Arrive Delhi Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays

Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur


Jal Mahal, Jaipur

Kalbelia women, Rajasthan

NETT TOUR PRICES PER PERSON 01 OCT, 2011 – 31 MAR, 2012* Minimum 2 persons

Double

US$ 11290

* Prices not valid for Christmas/New Year period Dec. 20-Jan. 10

TOUR ITINERARY DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI- - Evening arrival in Delhi, capital of India. Its history goes back 2000 years. Few capitals in the world have as many ancient monuments as Delhi. THE IMPERIAL DAY 2: DELHI- Tour of New Delhi, visiting the impressive Qutub Minar, a 234-ft sandstone tower and the Humayun’s Tomb, known as the first example of the Mughal imperial architecture. See the India Gate, Government buildings and presidential palace along the broad and majestic Rajpath. Visit the Gurudwara, Temple for the Sikh. Enjoy a brief walk around the Lodi Gardens and see 15th-16th century tombs and a beautifully decorated mosque amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. (B) Spice Route, The Imperial, Delhi

DAY 5: AGRA- The Taj Mahal, simply, is beauty - not just in design and technique, but in desire and intent. It was built as a monument to love, a manifestation of life’s most powerful emotion. It took world’s best craftsmen and about 20,000 workers, 20 years to build this beautiful structure. Enjoy an extended visit to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. See marble inlay work known as Pietra Dura and visit a private collection of gems/jewelry, tapestries and three dimensional embroideries (as mentioned in National Geographic magazine, *KOHINOOR). Enjoy another perspective of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh, situated on the opposite bank of the Taj Mahal. (B)

View of the Taj Mahal, Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

TOUR PRICE INCLUDES • Round trip airport transfers in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver (speed boat in Maldives) • Baggage handling of one piece checked bag per person at airports • 13 night hotel accommodations on sharing a double room at the mentioned or similar hotels as per itinerary inclusive of any applicable room taxes and service charges • Meals as mentioned B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner on table d’hôte basis (Not A la Carte) • Tours with local Spanish speaking guides in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver • Entrance fee to monuments and included features • Internal air Jaipur/Udaipur/Mumbai/ Bangalore/Male in economy class • Two 30-minute Spa massages at the Oberoi Spa in Jaipur and Udaipur • Tips/gratuities for drivers, guides, waiters at restaurants for included meals, airport transfer representatives, porters at airports and hotels. (not included in Maldives)

DAY 3: DELHI- Tour of Old Delhi to see the Red Fort, a symbol of Mughal power and visit Chandni Chowk (old shopping street), the market area popular for glass bangles and silver jewelry. On return, visit Raj Ghat, a memorial to the great Mahatma Gandhi. This evening you are invited to a modern family home for a cocktail. Later, visit ‘Kingdom of Dreams’, a centre of Indian art, culture and heritage. Enjoy India’s first live entertainment and theatre with authentic dinner of a regional cuisine of India. (B, D) DAY 4: DELHI, AGRA- Drive to Agra visiting en route the Bahai Temple, popularly known as the Lotus Temple. (B) OBEROI AMARVILAS

DAY 6: AGRA, JAIPUR- Today drive to Jaipur, the rose-pink capital of Rajasthan visiting en route Fatehpur Sikri, the once fabled Mughal capital that now lies quietly but wonderfully preserved. Experience the traditional ‘Aarti’ (prayer) at the ancient Shiva Temple within the hotel followed by a rejuvenating spa therapy (30 minutes) at the Oberoi Spa. (B) OBEROI RAJVILAS DAY 7: JAIPUR- This morning riding on elegantly caparisoned elephants, we make our way to the Amber Fort to visit its palaces. Tour the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, an old astronomical observatory and also see the ornate and elaborate Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds. Sample

• 24/7 Concierge service • Mineral water and Soft Beverages on cars during tours and overland drives

TOUR PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE International airfare, passport and visa fee, insurance, any meals and transportation that is not part of the itinerary, foreign airport taxes, excess baggage charges, personal tips/ gratuities to waiters at restaurants for nonincluded meals, chamber maids, other hotel staff, beverages, laundry, phone calls, faxes, and any other such items of personal nature. india@worldviewtours.com www.worldviewtours.com 23


Sunset cruise on Lake Pichola, Udaipur

ADDITIONAL VALUE ADD-ONS (at Oberoi Amarvilas, Oberoi Rajvilas and Oberoi Udaivilas) • Traditional welcome, complete with aarti, tikka and garland. • Special Turndown honeymoon services including: • A Rose petal bath surrounded with decorative candles. • A special cake or a platter of assorted chocolates in the room. • A beautiful floral arrangement in the room.

the artistic wealth of the region; cutting and polishing gemstones, art of making blue pottery, hand block printing and tie-n-dye etc. See a demonstration on hand painting - the art of ‘Mehndi’ with natural ‘Henna’ powders. Enjoy a special authentic Indian dinner at 1135AD, Amber Palace. (B, D) DAY 8: JAIPUR, UDAIPUR- Morning enjoy a Yoga session at the hotel. Take a Heritage walk through old walled city of Jaipur, a unique way to explore the living traditions of the city. Experience the spiritual side of the locals by visiting colorful temples, interact with residents over a cup of tea in their homes and discover some of the architectural wonders of this fascinating area of Jaipur. Later, visit Jal Mahal, a living museum, a former royal pleasure pavilion brought back to life and dedicated to Jaipur’s people and culture. Fly to Udaipur. The city of Udaipur stands in a valley amid green hills on the banks of the wide, steel blue Lake Pichola. (B) OBEROI UDAIVILAS Crystal Gallery, Udaipur

DAY 9: UDAIPUR- Day excursion to the beautiful Jain temple of Ranakpur. Built in white marble with exquisitely intricate carvings, the temple is unique in its architectural elegance. Meet the priest of the temple and attend an exclusive prayer ceremony. Enjoy elephant safari and lunch at Mountbatten Lodge in Ranakpur. Take a sunset cruise on Lake Pichola with a visit to the Jagmandir Palace. Enjoy a thirty minutes soothing back massage for the couple at the Oberoi spa. (B, L) DAY 10: UDAIPUR, MUMBAI, BANGALORE- Morning enjoy a Yoga session at the hotel. Later, tour of Udaipur, visiting the vast and exquisite City Palace of the Maharana. Amber, jade and colored glass gives the palace a sparkling, yet ethereal quality. See the Fateh Sagar Lake and visit the Jagdish Temple. Visit the Crystal Gallery, probably the largest private collection of crystal in the world. Fly to Bangalore via Mumbai. (B) THE OBEROI DAY 11: BANGALORE, MALE- Morning fly to Male. Transfer by speed boat to your resort. TAJ EXOTICA RESORT & SPA - Lagoon Villa DAY 12: MALE- Day at leisure to enjoy your resort, beach and independent activities. (B) DAY 13: MALE- Day at leisure to enjoy your resort, beach and independent activities. (B) DAY 14: DEPART MALE. Transfer to the airport for homebound flight. (B)

24

NOTES PRICES ARE NETT, PLEASE ADD YOUR MARK UP ON THE SAME DELHI- RED FORT, AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE, LOTUS TEMPLE AND MOST MUSEUMS CLOSED ON MONDAYS AGRA- TAJ MAHAL IS CLOSED ON FRIDAYS

TOUR EXTENSIONS Pre/Post Tour extensions are available to Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, Sri Lanka, South India, beaches of Goa and Kovalam, Islands of Andaman and Lakshadweep, Darjeeling/ Sikkim, Kerala and the backwaters, Aurangabad- Ajanta & Ellora caves, Mumbai and Wildlife parks of Ranthambore/Kanha/ Bandhavgarh/Pench, etc.

VISA For all travel to India one requires a MULTIPLE entry visa to India before the arrival, which can be obtained from Embassy of India in your country. No prior visa is required to enter the Republic of Maldives. Private Dining


Kathakali Dance

ABSOLUTE INDIA

14 Days

with 3 nights cruise on Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda Delhi • Agra • Jaipur • Udaipur •Cochin •Kumarakom

This tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime India experience. India has too much to experience in a single lifetime, let alone a single trip! This is a comprehensive tour featuring the best of North and South India. From the national capital city of Delhi, awe-inspiring Taj Mahal, irreplaceable forts and palaces of Rajasthan, the 15th-century Jain temple at Ranakpur with exquisite marble carvings, Jewish town of Cochin to the pristine Backwaters of Kerala. The luxury cruiser, Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda is one of the most relaxed ways to discover the enchanting Backwaters of Kerala. The sights, the temples, the bazaars, the spirituality, the complex history and mixed cultures make the tour a once-ina-lifetime experience. The cruiser meanders through a series of picturesque canals and makes stops at villages and interesting sights. Tastefully appointed spacious cabins offer spectacular views.

DELHI JAIPUR

AGRA

UDAIPUR

INDIA MUMBAI

Cabin in Oberoi MV Vrinda

COCHIN KUMARAKOM

Arrive Delhi Selected departure dates

Oberoi MV Vrinda

Air Train Drive

25


Colors of Rajasthan

Gurudwara, Temple of the Sikh

NETT TOUR PRICES PER PERSON 01 OCT, 2011 – 31 MAR, 2012* Minimum 2 persons Double

US$ 9490

Single room supplement

US$ 4290

* Prices not valid for Christmas/New Year period Dec. 20-Jan. 10

TOUR ITINERARY DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI- Evening arrival in Delhi, capital of India. Its history goes back 2000 years. Few capitals in the world have as many ancient monuments as Delhi. THE IMPERIAL DAY 2: DELHI- Tour of New Delhi,

visiting the impressive Qutub Minar, a 234-ft sandstone tower and the Humayun’s Tomb, known as the first example of the Mughal imperial architecture. See the India Gate, Government buildings and presidential palace along the broad and majestic Rajpath. Visit the Gurudwara, Temple for the Sikh. Enjoy a brief walk around the Lodi Gardens and see 15th-16th century tombs and a beautifully decorated mosque amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. (B) Indian Bride

DAY 3: DELHI- Tour of Old Delhi to see

the Red Fort, a symbol of Mughal power and visit Chandni Chowk (old shopping street), the market area popular for glass bangles and silver jewelry. On return, visit Raj Ghat, a memorial to the great Mahatma Gandhi. Tour Akshardham Temple, the largest Hindu temple complex in the world and discover the Crafts Museum galleries displaying India’s rich tradition of handicrafts. This evening you are invited to a modern family home for a cocktail. Later, visit ‘Kingdom of Dreams’, a centre of Indian art, culture and heritage. Enjoy India’s first live entertainment and theatre with authentic dinner of a regional cuisine of India. (B, D) DAY 4: DELHI, AGRA- Morning first class

train ride to Agra. The Taj Mahal, simply, is beauty - not just in design and technique, 26

but in desire and intent. It was built as a monument to love, a manifestation of life’s most powerful emotion. It took world’s best craftsmen and about 20,000 workers, 20 years to build this beautiful structure. Enjoy an extended visit to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. See marble inlay work known as Pietra Dura and visit a private collection of gems/jewelry, tapestries and three dimensional embroideries (as mentioned in National Geographic magazine, *KOHINOOR). Enjoy another perspective of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh, situated on the opposite bank of the Taj Mahal. (B) OBEROI AMARVILAS DAY 5: AGRA, JAIPUR- Today drive to

Jaipur visiting en route Fatehpur Sikri, the once fabled Mughal capital that now lies Intricate carvings on Qutub Minar, Delhi

quietly but wonderfully preserved. Also visit en route the ornate step wells at Abhaneri. Experience the flavors of Indian cinema at a local movie theatre for a short Bollywood movie. (B) TAJ RAMBAGH PALACE DAY 6: JAIPUR- This morning riding

on elegantly caparisoned elephants, we make our way to the Amber Fort to visit its palaces. Tour the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, an old astronomical observatory and also see the ornate and elaborate Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds. Enjoy a special authentic Indian dinner at 1135AD, Amber Palace. (B, D) DAY 7: JAIPUR, UDAIPUR- Take a Heritage

walk through old walled city of Jaipur, a unique way to explore the living traditions of the city. Later, visit Jal Mahal, a living museum,

TOUR PRICE INCLUDES • Round trip airport transfers in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver • Baggage handling of one piece checked bag per person at airports • 10 night hotel accommodations on sharing a double room or in a single room at the mentioned or similar hotels as per itinerary inclusive of any applicable room taxes and service charges • 03 nights onboard the Oberoi M/V Vrinda sharing a double cabin or in a single cabin, full board meals, tours and other included features with local English Speaking guide. • Meals as mentioned B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner on table d’hôte basis (Not A la Carte) • Tours with local Spanish speaking guides in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver • Entrance fee to monuments and included features • Internal air Jaipur/Udaipur/Mumbai/Cochin in economy class • Tips/gratuities for drivers, guides, waiters at restaurants for included meals, airport transfer representatives, porters at airports and hotels. (not included on Oberoi M/V Vrinda) • 24/7 Concierge service • Mineral water and Soft Beverages on cars during tours and overland drives

TOUR PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE International airfare, passport and visa fee, insurance, any meals and transportation that is not part of the itinerary, foreign airport taxes, excess baggage charges, personal tips/ gratuities to waiters at restaurants for nonincluded meals, chamber maids, other hotel staff, beverages, laundry, phone calls, faxes, and any other such items of personal nature. india@worldviewtours.com www.worldviewtours.com


Snakeboat Races, Kerala Backwaters

NOTES PRICES ARE NETT, PLEASE ADD YOUR MARK UP ON THE SAME DELHI- RED FORT, AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE, LOTUS TEMPLE AND MOST MUSEUMS CLOSED ON MONDAYS AGRA- TAJ MAHAL IS CLOSED ON FRIDAYS OBEROI M/V VRINDA- WILL START SAIL ON OCT 01 AND AFTER EVERY 3 NIGHTS IT WILL SAIL. DOES NOT OPERATE FROM APRIL- OCTOBER.

a former royal pleasure pavilion brought back to life and dedicated to Jaipur’s people and culture. Fly to Udaipur. The city of Udaipur stands in a valley amid green hills on the banks of the wide, steel blue Lake Pichola. (B) TAJ LAKE PALACE DAY 8: UDAIPUR- Day excursion to the

beautiful Jain temple of Ranakpur. Built in white marble with exquisitely intricate carvings, the temple is unique in its architectural elegance. Meet the priest of the temple and attend an exclusive prayer ceremony. Enjoy elephant safari and lunch at Mountbatten Lodge in Ranakpur. Take a sunset cruise on Lake Pichola with a visit to the Jagmandir Palace. (B, L) DAY 9: UDAIPUR, MUMBAI, COCHIN-

Morning tour of Udaipur, visiting the vast and exquisite City Palace of the Maharana. See the Fateh Sagar Lake and visit the Jagdish Temple. Visit the Crystal Gallery, probably the largest private collection of crystal in the world. Fly to Cochin via Mumbai. Cochin, its harbor has been trading spices with the rest of the world for over 2000 years. (B) MALABAR HOUSE DAY 10: COCHIN, KUMARAKOM, OBEROI M/V VRINDA- Our tour of Cochin includes

visit to the Jewish Synagogue, one of the oldest in India, Jewish town and the Dutch Palace, well known for its mural paintings. See the picturesque Chinese fishing nets in operation at the entrance of the Kochi Harbor; Chinese traders first brought them back from Kublai Khan’s court. Short drive to the Kerala backwaters to board the Oberoi M/V Vrinda. Vrinda sets sail along the main waterway on Vembanad Lake and enters the Alleppey canal. Later in the evening, enjoy a performance of the highly ritualized “Kathakali” dance. (B, L, D) OBEROI M/V VRINDA DAY 11: OBEROI M/V VRINDA- Morning Vrinda will sail from the Vembanad Lake jetty and head south, towards Alleppey. Sailing

through scenic backwaters, you can observe life along these “water highways” while passing through one of the few areas in the world where farming is done below sea level. The vessel will anchor near Kanjippadam and you will be transferred to a traditional rice boat to navigate through the narrower sections of the backwaters. This section of the cruise includes a visit to the half-statue of Lord Buddha at Karumadi and a traditional Kerala tharavad (family residence). Later in the day, return to Motor Vessel Vrinda and the boat continues to cruise through picturesque stretches of the backwaters on the way back to Alleppey. (B, L, D) DAY 12: OBEROI M/V VRINDA- Morning Vrinda will sail from the Vembanad Lake jetty and head south, past Kanjippadam. Vrinda will anchor near Chambakulam where you will be transferred onto the rice boat once again. 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. You can also explore the Chambakulam snake boat yard, which displays one of the traditional long snake boats used in races. After cruising through the backwaters in the afternoon, Motor Vessel Vrinda will return to Vembanad Lake, where you can enjoy a “Mohiniattam” recital on board. (B, L, D)

COCHIN- JEWISH SYNAGOGUE CLOSED ON FRIDAY & SATURDAY. DUTCH PALACE CLOSED ON FRIDAYS

TOUR EXTENSIONS Pre/Post Tour extensions are available to Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, Sri Lanka, South India, beaches of Goa and Kovalam, Islands of Andaman and Lakshadweep, Darjeeling/Sikkim, Aurangabad- Ajanta & Ellora caves, Mumbai and Wildlife parks of Ranthambore/Kanha/Bandhavgarh/Pench, etc.

VISA For all travel to India one requires a MULTIPLE entry visa to India before the arrival, which can be obtained from Embassy of India in your country. Amber Fort, Jaipur

DAY 13: OBEROI M/V VRINDA, COCHIN- Morning Vrinda will sail north

along the main waterway channel on the Vembanad Lake. Disembark and drive to Cochin. Enjoy a special treat, meet a local family and participate in a culinary experience at their residence followed by lunch. Take a heritage walk through Fort Cochin with time to explore the local antique shops and spice bazaars. (B, L) MALABAR HOUSE DAY 14: DEPART COCHIN. Transfer to the airport for your homebound flight.

27


Paradesi Synagogue, Cochin

JEWISH HERITAGE IN INDIA

15 Days

AN INDIA- JEWISH EXPERIENCE Delhi • Agra • Jaipur • Udaipur • Mumbai • Cochin • Kumarakom

One legend holds that Jews first settled in India during the time of King Solomon, but most contemporary scholars fix the date at some time during the early middle Ages. It is the Bible that contains the first mention of Jews in connection with India. Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of the Indian Jewish experience is the complete absence of discrimination by a host majority. The secret of India’s tolerance is the Hindu belief which confers legitimacy on a wide diversity of cultural and religious groups even as it forbids movement from one group to another.

DELHI JAIPUR

AGRA

UDAIPUR

Entering Jew Town Road in Cochin is like entering another world. Merchants call out from open-air shops, men squat in doorways or congregate in the middle of the street to smoke their pipes and gossip. The Paradesi in Cochin, the oldest synagogue, is white-walled and tile-roofed, with an inner courtyard lined with ancient Hebrew inscriptions; it was embellished in the mid 18th century. The floor is paved with hand painted porcelain tiles, brought from Canton, China. A forest of lights hangs from the ceiling – silver, brass and glass lamps and Belgian crystal chandeliers.

INDIA MUMBAI

Lobby, Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai

COCHIN KUMARAKOM

28

Arrive Delhi Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays

Air Train Drive

Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur


Akshardham Temple, Delhi

Taj Mahal

NETT TOUR PRICES PER PERSON 01 OCT, 2011 – 31 MAR, 2012* Minimum 2 persons Double Single room supplement

US$ 10690 US$ 4690

* Prices not valid for Christmas/New Year period Dec. 20-Jan. 10

TOUR ITINERARY DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI- Evening arrival in Delhi, capital of India. Its history goes back 2000 years. Few capitals in the world have as many ancient monuments as Delhi. THE IMPERIAL DAY 2: DELHI- Tour the Judah Hyam Synagogue, established in 1956. The Hall also serves as center for Jewish and inter-faith studies. Continue on your tour of New Delhi, visiting the impressive Qutub Minar, a 234-ft sandstone tower. Visit the Humayun’s Tomb, known as the first example of the Mughal imperial architecture. See the India Gate, Government buildings and presidential palace along the broad and majestic Rajpath. (B) DAY 3: DELHI- Tour of Old Delhi to see the Red Fort, a symbol of Mughal power and visit Chandni Chowk (old shopping street), the market area popular for glass bangles and silver jewelry. On return, visit Raj Ghat, a memorial to the great Mahatma Gandhi. Later, visit the Gurudwara, Temple for the Sikh. This evening you are invited to a modern family home for a cocktail. Later, visit ‘Kingdom of Dreams’, a centre of Indian art, culture and heritage. Enjoy India’s first live entertainment and theatre with authentic dinner of a regional cuisine of India. (B, D) DAY 4: DELHI, AGRA- Start early to enjoy a brief walk around the Lodi Gardens and see 15th-16th century tombs and a beautifully decorated mosque amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. Tour Akshardham Temple, the largest Hindu temple complex in the world and discover the Crafts Museum galleries displaying India’s rich tradition of handicrafts. Drive to Agra visiting en route the Bahai Temple, popularly known as the Lotus Temple. (B) OBEROI AMARVILAS DAY 5: AGRA- The Taj Mahal, simply, is beauty - not just in design and technique, but in desire and intent. It was built as a monument to love, a manifestation of life’s most powerful emotion. It took world’s best craftsmen and about 20,000 workers, 20 years to build this beautiful structure. Enjoy an extended visit to the Taj Mahal and Agra

Fort. See marble inlay work known as Pietra Dura and visit a private collection of gems/ jewelry, tapestries and three dimensional embroideries (as mentioned in National Geographic magazine, *KOHINOOR). Enjoy another perspective of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh, situated on the opposite bank of the Taj Mahal. (B) DAY 6: AGRA, JAIPUR- Today drive to Jaipur visiting en route Fatehpur Sikri, the once fabled Mughal capital that now lies quietly but wonderfully preserved. Also visit en route the ornate step wells at Abhaneri. Experience the flavors of Indian cinema at a local movie theatre for a short Bollywood movie. (B) TAJ RAMBAGH PALACE DAY 7: JAIPUR- This morning riding on elegantly caparisoned elephants, we make our way to the Amber Fort to visit its palaces. Tour the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, an old astronomical observatory and also see the ornate and elaborate Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds. Sample the artistic wealth of the region; cutting and polishing gemstones, art of making blue pottery, hand block printing and tie-n-dye etc. See a demonstration on hand painting - the art of ‘Mehndi’ with natural ‘Henna’ powders. Enjoy a special authentic Indian dinner at 1135AD, Amber Palace. (B, D) DAY 8: JAIPUR, UDAIPUR- Morning enjoy a Heritage walk, a unique way to explore the living traditions of the city. Later, visit Jal Mahal, a living museum, a former royal pleasure pavilion brought back to life and dedicated to Jaipur’s people and culture. Fly to Udaipur. The city of Udaipur stands in a valley amid green hills on the banks of the wide, steel blue Lake Pichola. (B) TAJ LAKE PALACE DAY 9: UDAIPUR- Day excursion to the beautiful Jain temple of Ranakpur. Built in white marble with exquisitely intricate carvings, the temple is unique in its architectural elegance. Meet the priest of the temple and attend an exclusive prayer ceremony. Enjoy elephant safari and lunch at Mountbatten Lodge in Ranakpur. Take a sunset cruise on Lake Pichola with a visit to the Jagmandir Palace. (B, L)

TOUR PRICE INCLUDES • Round trip airport transfers in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver • Baggage handling of one piece checked bag per person at airports • 13 night hotel accommodations and one night on air-conditioned Houseboat on sharing a double room or in a single room at the mentioned or similar hotels as per itinerary inclusive of any applicable room taxes and service charges • Meals as mentioned B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner on table d’hôte basis (Not A la Carte) • Tours with local Spanish speaking guides in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver. English speaking guide in Cochin and Kumarakom • Entrance fee to monuments and included features • Internal air Jaipur/Udaipur/Mumbai/ Cochin in economy class • Tips/gratuities for drivers, guides, waiters at restaurants for included meals, airport transfer representatives, porters at airports and hotels. • 24/7 Concierge service • Mineral water and Soft Beverages on cars during tours and overland drives

TOUR PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE International airfare, passport and visa fee, insurance, any meals and transportation that is not part of the itinerary, foreign airport taxes, excess baggage charges, personal tips/ gratuities to waiters at restaurants for nonincluded meals, chamber maids, other hotel staff, beverages, laundry, phone calls, faxes, and any other such items of personal nature. india@worldviewtours.com www.worldviewtours.com 29


Pristine Backwaters of Kerala

NOTES PRICES ARE NETT, PLEASE ADD YOUR MARK UP ON THE SAME DELHI- RED FORT, AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE, LOTUS TEMPLE AND MOST MUSEUMS CLOSED ON MONDAYS AGRA- TAJ MAHAL IS CLOSED ON FRIDAYS MUMBAI- MOST MUSUEMS ARE CLOSED ON MONDAYS COCHIN- JEWISH SYNAGOGUE CLOSED ON FRIDAY & SATURDAY. DUTCH PALACE CLOSED ON FRIDAY.

DAY 10: UDAIPUR, MUMBAI- Morning tour of Udaipur, visiting the vast and exquisite City Palace of the Maharana. See the Fateh Sagar Lake and visit the Jagdish Temple. Visit the Crystal Gallery, probably the largest private collection of crystal in the world. Fly to Mumbai, the commercial capital of India. (B) TAJ MAHAL PALACE DAY 11: MUMBAI- Morning tour of Mumbai includes visit to Gateway of India, a 85 feet high gateway overlooking the sea. Also, visit the Prince of Wales museum. Tour continues to visit the Gandhi Museum, the world heritage Victoria Terminus and the dhobi ghats (public laundry). Drive through the Marine Drive, Bombay University and High courts, on to Hanging gardens and Flora Fountain, a center of all business activities. Afternoon, visit the Knesseth Eliahod Synagogue, popularly known as the Fort Synagogue, a magnificent structure built by Sir Jacob Sasson in 1884. Drive past one of the largest libraries in Mumbai, the David Sasson Library, an impressive structure built in 1847. Next, visit the Magen David Synagogue, which was erected in 1861, making it the first Baghdadi Synagogue constructed in Mumbai. The third synagogue you will visit today is the Magen Hassidin Synagogue. Built in 1904, it is one of five Bene-Israel synagogues in Mumbai, with the largest congregation of Jews in Mumbai. (B) DAY 12: MUMBAI, COCHIN, KUMARAKOM- Fly to Cochin and travel to the celebrated backwaters of Kerala, comprising one of South India’s most picturesque rural areas. This complex network of lagoons, lakes, rivers and canals form the basis of a distinct regional life-style where traveling by boat is the local transport. Cruise on the famous backwaters, giving us the pleasure of observing the local way of life. Travel along the “water highways” to see one 30

of the few areas in the world where farming is done below sea level. (B, L, D) HOUSEBOAT (air-conditioned)

TOUR EXTENSIONS

DAY 13: KUMARAKOM, COCHINMorning at leisure on the Houseboat as we cruise on the backwaters. Enjoy a visit to a local spice farm house followed by lunch. Afternoon disembark and drive to Cochin, its harbor has been trading spices with the rest of the world for over 2000 years. The older parts of Fort Cochin and Mattancherry are a unique blend of Portugal, Holland and an English country village being grafted onto the tropical Malabar Coast – with its wealth of historical associations and a setting on cluster of islands, In the evening, witness a colorful Kathakali dance performance and a demonstration of ‘Kalari Payathu’, local martial arts. (B, L) MALABAR HOUSE/ OLD HARBOUR

VISA

DAY 14: COCHIN- Our tour of Cochin includes visit to the Jewish Synagogue, one of the oldest in India, Jewish town and the Dutch Palace, well known for its mural paintings. It is the first synagogue in India, and one of the oldest in the world. Near the synagogue is an interesting market selling spices, and antiques, bursting with activity and variety. See the picturesque Chinese fishing nets in operation at the entrance of the Kochi Harbor; Chinese traders first brought them back from Kublai Khan’s court. Enjoy a special treat, meet a local family and participate in a culinary experience at their residence followed by lunch. Take a heritage walk through Fort Cochin with time to explore the local antique shops and spice bazaars. The architecture of the quiet streets in this enclave is very European, with fine houses built by wealthy British traders, and Dutch cottages with split farm house doors. (B, L)

DAY 15: DEPART COCHIN- Early morning transfer to the airport for your homebound flight.

Pre/Post Tour extensions are available to Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, Sri Lanka, Maldives, South India, beaches of Goa and Kovalam, Islands of Andaman and Lakshadweep, Darjeeling/Sikkim, Aurangabad-Ajanta/ Ellora caves and Wildlife parks of Kanha/ Bandhavgarh/Pench/ Ranthambore, etc.

For all travel to India one requires a MULTIPLE entry visa to India before the arrival, which can be obtained from Embassy of India in your country. Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue, Mumbai


Royal Bengal Tiger

In Search of the Tiger

15 Days

Arrive Delhi Daily except Wednesdays

Delhi • Agra • Ranthambore • Jaipur • Khajuraho • Panna•Bandhavgarh • Kanha • Pench • Mumbai

TI BE T

Come experience the unparalleled beauty of the Indian jungle. With its towering, ancient trees, enchanting chorus of forest birds, and herds of gentle chital, this is a travel experience unlike

DELHI

NEPAL JAIPUR

exhilarating game drives. Look out for the shy sambar (large forest

AGRA

RANTHAMBORE

PENCH

KHAJURAHO PANNA BANDHAVGARH

INDIA

Bathroom, Taj Pashan Garh, Panna

deer), journey through ever-changing habitats and, if luck is on your side, catch a glimpse of India’s most famous and endangered predator, the Bengal tiger. Post tour extension available to the

KANHA

NAGPUR MUMBAI

any other. Test your spotting skills as our naturalists take you on

Air Train Drive

national parks of Gir and Kaziranga.

Cottage, Taj Banjaar Tola, Kanha

Lounge, Taj Baghvan, Pench

31


Elephants

Leopard

NETT TOUR PRICES PER PERSON 01 OCT, 2011 – 31 MAR, 2012* Minimum 2 persons Double

US$ 9850

Single room supplement

US$ 3685

* Prices not valid for Christmas/New Year period Dec. 20-Jan. 10

TOUR ITINERARY DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI- Evening arrival in Delhi, capital of India. Its history goes back 2000 years. Few capitals in the world have as many ancient monuments as Delhi. THE OBEROI DAY 2: DELHI- Tour of New Delhi

this morning, visiting the impressive Qutub Minar, a 234-ft sandstone tower and the Humayun’s Tomb, known as the first example of the Mughal imperial architecture. See the India Gate, Government buildings and presidential palace along the broad and majestic Rajpath. Visit the Gurudwara, Temple for the Sikh. Tour of Old Delhi this afternoon to see the Red Fort, a symbol of Mughal power and visit Chandni Chowk (old shopping street), the market area popular Private Sala, Taj Pashan Garh, Panna

for glass bangles and silver jewelry. On return, visit Raj Ghat, a memorial to the great Mahatma Gandhi. (B) DAY 3: DELHI, AGRA- Morning first class train ride to Agra. The Taj Mahal, simply, is beauty - not just in design and technique, but in desire and intent. It was built as a monument to love, a manifestation of life’s most powerful emotion. It took world’s best craftsmen and about 20,000 workers, 20 years to build this beautiful structure. Enjoy an extended visit to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. See marble inlay work known as Pietra Dura and visit a private collection of gems/jewelry, tapestries and three dimensional embroideries (as mentioned in National Geographic magazine, *KOHINOOR). Enjoy another perspective of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab 32

Bagh, situated on the opposite bank of the Taj Mahal. (B) OBEROI AMARVILAS DAY 4: AGRA, RANTHAMBORE- Today

drive to Ranthambore National Park in search of the elusive tiger visiting en route Fatehpur Sikri, the once fabled Mughal capital that now lies quietly but wonderfully preserved. Ranthambore National Park encompasses nearly 152 square miles of dry deciduous forest in south- eastern Rajasthan. It is famous for its tigers and is a favorite with photographers. Besides the tiger, other predators found in Ranthambore are leopard, striped hyena, jackal, caracal and jungle cat. Also seen are sloth bear, sambar deer, chital (spotted) deer, nilgai (blue bull) antelope, wild boar, chinkara (Indian) gazelle, Indian hare, mongoose, common langur, palm civet, palm squirrel, porcupine and monitor lizard. (B) OBEROI VANYAVILAS Safari Experience

DAY 5: RANTHAMBORE- Morning and

afternoon nature drive into the Park by park vehicle. Visit the Ranthambore School of Art, which have revolutionized the concept of wildlife paintings. Later, visit the Dastkar’s Project, a society for crafts and craftspeople. (B)

DAY 6: RANTHAMBORE, JAIPUR-

Drive to Jaipur, the rose-pink capital of Rajasthan. Afternoon take a Heritage walk through old walled city of Jaipur, a unique way to explore the living traditions of the city. Experience the flavors of Indian cinema at a local movie theatre for a short Bollywood movie. (B) OBEROI RAJVILAS

DAY 7: JAIPUR- This morning riding on elegantly caparisoned elephants, we make our way to the Amber Fort to visit its palaces. Later, visit Jal Mahal, a living museum, a former

TOUR PRICE INCLUDES • Round trip airport transfers in a private air-conditioned luxury car with driver • Baggage handling of one piece checked bag per person at airports • 14 night hotel accommodations on sharing a double room or in a single room at the mentioned or similar hotels as per itinerary inclusive of any applicable room taxes and service charges • Meals as mentioned B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner on table d’hôte basis (Not A la Carte) • Tours with local Spanish speaking guides (Delhi, Agra and Jaipur) in a private airconditioned luxury car with driver • Nature drives into the National Parks of Ranthambore, Panna, Bandhavgarh, Kanha and Pench in park vehicles with English speaking naturalists • Entrance fee to monuments, national parks and included features • Internal air Jaipur/Delhi/Khajuraho, Nagpur/Mumbai in economy class • Tips/gratuities for drivers, guides, waiters at restaurants for included meals, airport transfer representatives, porters at airports and hotels. • 24/7 Concierge service • Mineral water and Soft Beverages on cars during tours and overland drives

TOUR PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE International airfare, passport and visa fee, insurance, any meals and transportation that is not part of the itinerary, foreign airport taxes, excess baggage charges, personal tips/ gratuities to waiters at restaurants for nonincluded meals, chamber maids, other hotel staff, beverages, laundry, phone calls, faxes, and any other such items of personal nature. india@worldviewtours.com www.worldviewtours.com


Tent Deck, Taj Banjaar Tola, Kanha

NOTES PRICES ARE NETT, PLEASE ADD YOUR MARK UP ON THE SAME DELHI- RED FORT, AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE, LOTUS TEMPLE AND MOST MUSEUMS CLOSED ON MONDAYS AGRA- TAJ MAHAL IS CLOSED ON FRIDAYS

royal pleasure pavilion brought back to life and dedicated to Jaipur’s people and culture. Tour the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, an old astronomical observatory and also see the ornate and elaborate Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds. Sample the artistic wealth of the region; cutting and polishing gemstones, art of making blue pottery, hand block printing and tie-n-dye etc. Enjoy a special authentic Indian dinner at 1135AD, Amber Palace. (B, D) DAY 8: JAIPUR, DELHI, KHAJURAHO, PANNA- Morning fly to Khajuraho

via Delhi. Khajuraho is known for its magnificent temples, which are among the most creative examples of Indian architecture. The temples here are known for their symmetry and design, and also for their intricate and erotic carvings on their walls. Enjoy a brief tour of the western and eastern group of temples. Continue on your short drive to Panna National Park. The Park, with its deep ravines, cascading waterfalls and thick teak forests, is predominantly a plateau, with sprawling flatlands punctuated by hills, deep valleys and gorges. Home to the majestic tiger, you may also see leopard, wolf, hyena, jackal and sloth bear. The reserve is also well known for sightings of nilgai, sambar, chital, wild boar and Indian crocodile. (B, D) TAJ PASHAN GARH DAY 9: PANNA, BANDHAVGARH-

Morning nature drive into the Park by park vehicle. Later drive to Bandhavgarh National Park. Set among the Vindhya Hills of Madhya Pradesh with an area of 168 square miles, this national park contains a wide variety of habitats and high density of game, including a large number of tigers. In addition to tigers, also seen are chousingha (small four horned) antelope, chinkara (Indian) gazelle, nilgai (blue bull) antelope, wild boar, jackal, muntjak (barking) deer, sambar deer, chital (spotted) deer, jungle cat, striped hyena, porcupine, ratel, rheses macaque, black-faced langur monkey and more. (B, L, D)TAJ MAHUA KOTHI

DAY 10: BANDHAVGARH- Morning and

NATIONAL PARKS OF RANTHAMBORE/ BANDHAVGARH/KANHA/ PENCH ARE CLOSED DURING MONSOONS JULY 01- OCTOBER 15

DAY 11: BANDHAVGARH, KANHA- Morning

BANDHAVGARH NATIONAL PARK- AFTERNOON SAFARIS CLOSED EVERY WEDNESDAY

afternoon nature drive into the Park by park vehicle. (B, L, D)

nature drive into the Park by park vehicle. Later, drive to Kanha National Park. The setting of Kipling’s Jungle Book, it supports an excellent variety of wildlife including leopards, chital, sambar and, most famously, the tiger. Herds of animals are found in the central parklands where approximately 22 animal species are regularly spotted, including the more unique species such as the three-striped palm squirrel, common langur, jackal, wild pig and black buck. Striped hyena, leopard, mouse deer and porcupine also reside here, as do the chinkara and ant-eating pangolin. (B, L, D) TAJ BANJAAR TOLA

DAY 12: KANHA- Morning and afternoon

nature drive into the Park by park vehicle. (B, L, D)

DAY 13: KANHA, PENCH- Morning nature drive into the Park by park vehicle. Later, drive to Pench National Park. Dominated by hills, forests and valleys, this national park derives its name from the Pench River, which meanders its way through the entire stretch of the 757 Km² Park. A typical Central Indian teak jungle, Pench supports a rich variety of wildlife, including the tiger, leopard, wild dog, gaur, sambar, chital and brilliant birdlife. The Park’s open habitat not only lends well to wildlife viewing, but it also offers striking views of the area’s sheer beauty. Afternoon enjoy a nature drive into the park by park vehicle. (B, L, D) TAJ BAGHVAN

TOUR EXTENSIONS Pre/Post Tour extensions are available to Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, Sri Lanka, Maldives, South India, Rajasthan, Varanasi, beaches of Goa and Kovalam, Islands of Andaman and Lakshadweep, Darjeeling/Sikkim, Kerala and the backwaters, AurangabadAjanta & Ellora caves, Mumbai and Wildlife parks of Gir/Kaziranga, etc.

VISA For all travel to India one requires a MULTIPLE entry visa to India before the arrival, which can be obtained from Embassy of India in your country. Restaurant, Taj Baghvan,Pench

DAY 14: PENCH, MUMBAI- Morning

enjoy a nature drive into the park by park vehicle. Later, drive to Nagpur airport for your flight to Mumbai. On arrival, transfer to your hotel. (B) LEELA KEMPINSKI

DAY 15: DEPART MUMBAI. Early

morning transfer to the airport for your homebound flight.

33


Kids in Bhutan

10 Days

MYTHS & LEGENDS OF BHUTAN HONEYMOON SPECIAL Delhi • Thimpu • Punakha • Paro LHASA

TIBET PUNAKHA THIMPU PARO

BHUTAN PHUNTSHOLING

Amankora, Punakha

Arrive Delhi Selected Departure Dates

Bhutan is a land of soaring snow–capped peaks, alpine meadows, and exotic flora and fauna. Its jealously guarded isolation, awe-inspiring Himalayas, ancient culture and friendly people make it a magical place even for the most intrepid of travelers. The nation is a bastion of Mahayana Buddhism, and the teachings of this spiritual tradition influence all aspects of life in the kingdom. Visit holy Buddhist shrines and isolated hermitages, and discover Bhutan’s culture through art and music. Many behind-the-scenes visits will make it a great cultural experience. Guiding the traveler through Thimpu, Punakha and Paro in central Bhutan, this tour explores the stunning landscape, rich art, culture and folklore of Bhutan.

Living & Dining area, Amankora, Thimpu

Spa, Amankora, Paro


Festival in Bhutan

Taktsang Monastery, Bhutan

NETT TOUR PRICES PER PERSON 01 OCT, 2011 – 31 MAR, 2012* Minimum 2 persons Double

US$ 8,690

* Prices not valid for Christmas/New Year period Dec. 20-Jan. 10

TOUR PRICE INCLUDES TOUR ITINERARY DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI- Arrive Delhi, the national capital of India. Its history goes back to 3000 years. OBEROI GURGAON DAY 2: DELHI, PARO, THIMPU- This morning we fly to Paro (7,480ft) and begin our scenic drive to Thimpu, one of the most beautiful drives in this region. Thimpu is a bustling, growing town of over 20,000 inhabitants, lying in a valley just over 7,200ft high. Late afternoon visit the Memorial Chorten, built in honor of late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. (B, L, D) AMANKORA DAY 3: THIMPU- Today we will visit the Tashichhodzong, built in 1641, was re- constructed in 1961 in the traditional Bhutanese style, without nails or architectural plans. Visit the National library, a treasury of priceless Buddhist manuscripts; the Traditional medicine center; the painting school, where young monks learn the art of painting Buddhist tangkas, and the mask maker’s workshop. Later we will visit the Zilukha Nunnery and the Takin Zoo. We will also visit the Folk Arts Heritage museum and the Textile museum. Evening we will visit a hand papermaking workshop and the Handicrafts Emporium. (B, L, D) DAY 4: THIMPU, PUNAKHA- Morning drive to Punakha (4,500 ft), crossing the Dochu-La pass (10,000 ft). Punakha Dzong has undergone flooding from a glacial lake, which broke through its barriers high above in the mountains, and fire, but has stood on its remarkable site since the 17th century. We will visit the Punakha Dzong, the winter home of the chief Abbot and one of the most impressive Dzong in the country. (B, L, D) AMANKORA DAY 5: PUNAKHA- Today we will drive to Wangdi and visit the Wangdiphodrang Dzong. The Wangdiphodrang Dzong and its small town are perched on a hill between two rivers. This Dzong also houses the District Administration office of the Wangdi district and the office and the living quarters of the district monk body. (B, L, D)

DAY 6: PUNAKHA, PARO- Today we drive back to beautiful terraced valley of Paro (7,480ft), home to many of Bhutan’s oldest temples and its first airport. Afternoon we will visit the Paro Dzong and the Ta Dzong National museum. Ta Dzong was once the watchtower for Paro Dzong, and the road winds down the hill to the Dzong below, terminating at the wooden suspension bridge over the river shown in Bertolucci’s film ‘The Little Buddha’. (B, L, D) AMANKORA DAY 7: PARO- Morning we will drive to the foot hills of the Taktsang Monastery and from here hike up to the viewpoint of the monastery, which is approximately 2,300 feet above the Paro valley. This approximately one hour’s walk is rewarded with an unforgettable view of not only the valley below but also the exotic Tiger’s Nest Temple, clinging to the side of a cliff. Afternoon visit the Drukgyel Dzong, 10 miles up the valley. Later, visit a typical Bhutanese farmhouse to get firsthand experience of rural Bhutan. (B, L, D) DAY 8: PARO- This morning we will drive to Chele-la pass, a little more than an hour’s drive. At 13,000 feet, this is the highest road open to cars in Bhutan. From the pass one can see the Ha valley, the extreme western district of Bhutan. v Visit the Lhakhang Karpo and Nagpo. (B, L, D) DAY 9: PARO, DELHI- Fly back to Delhi. Transfer to the Hotel. (B) OBEROI GURGAON DAY 10: DEPART DELHI- Early morning transfer to the airport for your homebound flight. Young Lamas

• Round trip airport transfers in a private non air-conditioned car with driver (air-conditioned in India) • Baggage handling of one piece checked bag per person at airports • 9 night hotel accommodations on sharing a double room at the mentioned or similar hotels as per itinerary inclusive of any applicable room taxes and service charges • Meals as mentioned B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner on table d’hôte basis • Tours with accompanying English speaking guide in a private non air-conditioned car with driver • Entrance fee to monuments and included features • Internal air Delhi/Paro/Delhi in economy class • Tips/gratuities for drivers, guides, waiters at restaurants for included meals, airport transfer representatives, porters at airports and hotels • Bhutan Visa Fee • Mineral water and Soft Beverages on cars during tours and overland drives

TOUR PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE International airfare, passport and India visa fee (Bhutan visa fee is included tour price), insurance, any meals and transportation that is not part of the itinerary, foreign airport taxes, excess baggage charges, personal tips/ gratuities to waiters at restaurants for nonincluded meals, chamber maids, other hotel staff, beverages, laundry, phone calls, faxes, and any other such items of personal nature.

NOTES PRICES ARE NETT, PLEASE ADD YOUR MARK UP ON THE SAME TOUR DATES ARE SUBJECT TO DRUK AIR SCHEDULES DELHI/PARO/DELHI- PLEASE CHECK WITH US

VISA For all travel to India one requires a MULTIPLE entry visa to India before the arrival, which can be obtained from Embassy of India in your country. We will help you get pre-approved visas to Bhutan. Please send a scanned copy of your passport, passport photos and details of your profession which are required to process the visa. Current Bhutan visa fee is US$30.00 per person, which is included in the price of the trip (visa fee subject to change).

india@worldviewtours.com www.worldviewtours.com


CHoice of VEHICLEs On custom designed private tours, you have a choice in selecting the vehicle type which will be most suited to your requirement and preferences. Our India office manages a large transport fleet of chauffeur- driven luxury cars, sedans, SUVs & MUVs, mini vans and motor-coaches. Our chauffeurs are reliable, experienced and professionally trained to offer high quality services. All our vehicles offer upscale amenities such as daily newspaper, magazines, road maps, wet towels, bottled water and soft beverages at no extra cost, nuts/crackers/fruits for long drives, first aid, fire safety, etc. Most of our cars also offer free internet while on the drive! SUVs

LUXURY VAN

india

LUXURY CAR

PRIVATE CHARTERS

First Class Train

The enthusiastic and heartfelt endorsements of our drivers are a tremendous source of pride for our company. Read through a sample of what our travelers have to say about our chauffeurs:

Commercial Flights use modern aircrafts

“We have returned safely from our trip to India and Nepal with your company. Everything exceeded our expectations. We want to emphasize especially the work of our driver Mr. Anup Sethi for his quality service and personal care. His performance adds quality to your company” - Nèfer Pellegrini & Susana Gandolfo “We are having a marvelous time in India. The hotel choices have been exquisite, the guides have been very informative and kind, and our driver Mool Chand was courteous, skillful and very kind- Rebecca & Bud Colligan

36


AIRPORT TAXES

travel

Taxes on all domestic flights are included. There is currently no airport departure tax from any International airport in India (subject to change).

facts

PHOTOGRAPHY Special permissions are required for use of tripod and artificial light. Most monuments have a still and moving camera fee (nominal charge ranging from $0.5-$8.00 per camera). Carry twice as much film or memory cards as you think you will need. LAUNDRY

PASSPORT AND VISAS

CLOTHING

A passport valid for at least six months beyond your return date is required. You will need a multiple entry visa for India prior to your arrival in India which you can obtain from the Indian Embassy in your country. Visa fee is payable directly.

No formal clothes are required on your tour, unless you wish to dress up a little for dining at the better restaurants of some deluxe hotels. A jacket for men (tie optional) and one dress or pantsuit for ladies is adequate. Casual to smart-casual is the norm. Bring protection against the sun, (i.e. sun screen, sun glasses, hat, etc.). During visits to a temple or a mosque, avoid showing too much skin. From November to February a sweater and a wind jacket may be necessary in North India. Remember comfortable walking shoes and a few pairs of dark “temple socks” that can be discarded after the tour.

VACCINATION Government of India does not require any vaccinations, except proof of a yellow fever shot if you have traveled in a yellow fever affected area within the past six months. Please visit http:// wikitravel.org/en/Yellow_fever to see a list of yellow fever affected areas. As a minimum, most tourists take protection against Hepatitis A and get booster shots. For more information you may contact your doctor or local health department. HEALTH PRECAUTIONS Minor stomach ailments are the most common affliction of visitors to India. To minimize the chances of your getting sick, we strongly recommend that you drink only mineral water during your travel. Mineral water is available for purchase throughout. In restaurants, insist that they bring a sealed bottle to your table. Avoid having ice in drinks unless you are in four-star or better hotels. It is always a good idea to wash your hands or use hand sanitizer frequently during the day. Try to avoid unpeeled fruits or raw salads unless you are in four-star or better hotels. ACTIVITY LEVEL You don’t have to be an athlete to participate in our tours to India, but you must be in reasonably good physical condition. The most that is physically required is walking from the bus to a monument or inside a fort or museum where it may be necessary to climb steps to go from one exhibit to another. BAGGAGE Baggage handling of only one piece of checked luggage per person is included throughout the tour. One checked bag not to exceed 50 pounds, plus one carry on not to exceed 11 pounds is allowed per person on internal flights. WEATHER October through March is the best season to visit India. During this time there is little to no rain in North India with average high temperatures in the low 80s°F and lows between 50°F to 70°F. However, in certain areas temperatures could drop to the low 40s°F in January/February. South India gets some monsoon rains in October/ November, but December through March is relatively cool and dry.

Recommended items to pack include: Good walking shoes, protection against sun, (i.e., sun screen, sun glasses, hats, umbrellas, lip balm, etc.), light jacket or sweater, rain gear, extra pair of socks (temple socks), mosquito repellent, diarrhea medication, soap leaves, wet wipes (single use-type packets), hand sanitizer, binoculars, flashlight, medication, alarm clock or a travelers watch, calculator, camera with extra memory sticks/film and batteries. ELECTRIC CURRENT The voltage in India is 220 volts AC 50 cycles. Plugs are C, D or M type (similar to European two round prongs) and sockets have either two or three round holes for plugs with pins in a triangular pattern. If you do bring electrical appliances, take along an international converter kit complete with a set of adapter plugs. TIME ZONE India has only one time zone; the entire country is 5.5 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time). FOOD & DINING A smorgasbord of traditional local fare and continental favorites are available in most hotels. Full American breakfast is included daily with juice, fruit, breads, eggs and local items. Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Udaipur and Jaipur offer fine dining in city restaurants; in all other cities it is perhaps best to eat in the hotels. CURRENCY It is convenient to change money at your hotel cashier’s desks. You may want to take your US dollars in hundreds, twenties, tens, fives and ones for small purchases. Please change $100 or $50 at a time as it is often difficult to reconvert local money back to US dollars. Please obtain receipts as they are required to reconvert unspent local money into US dollars. All major establishments, hotels, restaurants and shops accept major credit cards. ATMs are available in most major cities in India but they may be far from your hotels.

To minimize your laundry worries while on tour, it is best to pack easy care items. Most of the hotels you will stay in do have laundry facilities and although it is not very expensive (except in luxury hotels), you will have to ensure that you negotiate correct delivery schedule. Most laundry is delivered the next evening and your tour may be leaving for another city? It is possible to arrange rush delivery at an extra charge. It is suggested that you give out laundry when your stay in a hotel is for two nights. SMOKING In the interest of safety and added enjoyment of the tour, we do not allow smoking while aboard the tour bus or car. There are frequent sightseeing, picture taking, and rest stops along the way. TIPS & GRATUITIES All tips/gratuities are included for drivers, guides, waiters at restaurants for included meals, airport transfer representatives, porters at airports and hotels. For personal services rendered to you, such as beauty and barber shops, valet service or taxis and at restaurants for non-included meals, etc. a 10% to 15% of the cost of the service is the normal tip. Many times a smile and a thank you is all that is required. TELEPHONES & COMMUNICATION International telephone connections are excellent. Overseas calls made from the hotel can be expensive and we suggest that you check the charges before you make the call. Most hotels have fax machines available to receive or send faxes at a nominal charge. It is possible to use public phones outside the hotels to make international calls, however, it is difficult to have privacy in the absence of private phone booths. Most hotels have business centers which provide email/internet, phone, fax, secretarial and other business facilities. Most hotels in India also provide Wi-Fi facilities though at a nominal charge. SMALL INDULGENCES Please ask us for a choice of possible indulgences while you enjoy your vacation to India. Pamper and indulge yourself, be it a day at the spa, a private dinner for both of you or a day at golf, etc., our expert staff is available to assist you. PLAN A SURPRISE Embarking your trip to exotic destinations, what better time and place to plan a surprise and express your love for your loved ones! Please call us in advance or talk to our ground staff for anything from pre-arranging flowers, ordering champagne or wine, chocolates, cakes, souvenirs, exclusive dining, room upgrades to Indian style wedding, etc.

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CRAFTING | UNUSUAL | PERSPECTIVES

INDIA | NEPAL | BHUTAN | TIBET SRI LANKA | MALDIVES


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