IndoChina: INDIA - Bridges Travel and Tours |

:: Excursion Tours ::

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Golden Triangle, 7 days

Day 01	Delhi \| Arrival in Delhi, welcome by our representatives outside the custom lounge and escorted till check in at the hotel. Delhi, the Empress of Indian cities has a fascinating history and a stimulating present. She has often been sacked and left naked and desolate. But she could not be despoiled of the incomparable situation that marks her for the metropolis of a Great Empire. The capital of India, Delhi has been the seat of power of a number of dynasties – at the Rajputs, the Afghans, the Turks and the Mughals who continued their imperial line until the British. Scattered over are surviving ruins, remnants of mighty edifices, tombs of warriors and saints, which in an impressive sense of magnificence are memorials not of a single city, but of supplanted nations. Overnight in Delhi.
Day 02	Delhi - Agra \| After breakfast, start a combined sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi. In Old Delhi, drive past the RED FORT, the 300-year-old walled city built by Emperor Shah Jehan in 1648 as his capital and named after him. Opposite the fort are the black and white onion dome and minarets of the JAMA MASJID, the most elegant mosque in India. Also drive past KOTLA FIROZE SHAH, ruins of an old fort of the 14th century with the 13 meter high Ashoka Pillar of 3rd B.C. Visit RAJ GHAT, where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated in 1948. After that, proceed to New Delhi - the new capital designed by Sir Edward Lutyens. Drive past the PRESIDENTIAL PALACE, the RASHTRAPATI BHAVAN and the secretariat buildings - the centre of all government activity and down the main avenue, the impressive RAJPATH to the World War I memorial arch, the INDIA GATE, the HIGH COURT BUILDING and the OLD FORT.Visit QUTUB MINAR, 72 meters high and the ruins of QUWAT-UL- ESLAM (Light of Islam) Mosque. See Delhi’s most curious antique, the unworried IRON PILLAR, which dates back to the 4th century AD. In the afternoon, leave Delhi for Agra. On arrival check in at the hotel. Overnight in Agra.
Day 03	Agra \| Full day sightseeing tour of TAJ MAHAL, AGRA FORT and TOMB OF ITMAD-UD-DULAH. First of all visit the breathtaking TAJ MAHAL, a poem in white marble, built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaj Mahal. As a tribute to a beautiful woman and as a monument for enduring love, the Taj reveals its subtleties when one visits it without being in a hurry. Only then does the amazing gracefulness appear to the visitor’s eye. With its incredible lacy white grandeur the Taj Mahal is perhaps the most perfect architectural monument in the world. Continue to the AGRA FORT which is situated on the banks of the river Yamuna. This is another monumental mission accomplished by the great Mughal visionary Emperor Akbar. His son Jehangir and grandson Shah Jehan added to this imposing structure during their rule. The Palaces, mosques and audience halls contained within its massive wall of red sandstone are perfect examples of blending Islamic and Hindu traditions. Overnight in Agra.
Day 04	Agra - Jaipur \| After breakfast in the morning, leave Agra for Jaipur. En route, visit the deserted city of FATEHPUR SIKRI. The abandoned red sandstone city built in the 16th century by the Mughal Emperor Akbar, one of India’s greatest rulers. Remarkably broadminded for his time, this Muslim king married a Rajput princess in order to win over his Hindu subjects. The architecture at Fatehpur Sikri is a combination of Hindu and Muslim styles, expressing Akbar’s vision of synthesizing the cultures. After the visit continue driving to Jaipur where the enduring charisma of the past blends with the throbbing vitality of today, where a colourful cast of characters – from printers and potters to artists and antique dealers – present a fascinating picture of a city that is alive to both tradition and change. In building Jaipur, the founder Raja Jai Singh’s vision took him beyond architectural beauty for in the sprawling, barren plains beneath Amber, the former capital. He gave India its first planned city, which has remained unique in two and a half centuries. On arrival transfer and check in at hotel. Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 05	Jaipur \| The day begins with a visit to the AMBER FORT, the former seat of the Rajput rulers of Jaipur. Ascending the fortress seated on elephants, wander around the beautiful palaces and visit the SHILADEVI TEMPLE (which continues to be the private temple of the Royal family) with its exquisite marble carvings and silver door. Continue the sightseeing in the afternoon. Visit the open-air royal observatory “JANTAR MANTAR”, with gigantic, astronomical instruments, the CITY PALACE and Museum stopping by the “HAWA MAHAL” or the Palace of Winds. Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 06	Jaipur - Mandawa \| Today, the journey continues to Mandawa. Like many historic homes, CASTLE MANDAWA is a curious mixture of the old and the new. Medieval turreted towers, palanquin-roofed balconies, blend with modern comforts in old-world rooms. Family portraits, antique cannons and arms add to the charm of this familyrun resort where tradition still runs strong. Even time is measured by a different clock. A huge brass gong is struck by the resident timekeepers at the fort every hour. Mandawa, a remote feudal principality in the centre of the Shekhawati region, was a trading outpost for the ancient caravan routes that stopped here from China and the Middle East. In the afternoon, enjoy a walking tour to visit the FRESCOES & HAVELIS OF MANDAWA. Overnight in Mandawa.
Day 07	Mandawa - Delhi \| After breakfast, leave Mandawa for Delhi which is a 257 kilometres journey and takes around 5 hours. On arrival no hotel envisaged. Dinner will be provided in a hotel. Later on that day, be transferred in time to the airport for connecting flight to onward destination. Alternatively, leaving during the early hours on day 8. End of the tour.
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Land of Maharajas, 12 days

Day 01	Delhi \| Upon arrival in Delhi, meet our representative outside the customs enclosure and be escorted till check in at the hotel. Delhi, the Empress of Indian cities has a fascinating history and a stimulating present. The capital of India, Delhi has been the seat of power of a number of dynasties – the Rajputs, the Afghans, the Turks and the Mughals who continued their imperial line until the British. Overnight in Delhi.
Day 02	Delhi - Agra \| Enjoy breakfast in the morning. After that start the sightseeing tour of Old Delhi. Drive past the RED FORT, the 300-year old walled city built by Emperor Shah Jehan in 1648 as his capital and named after him. Opposite the fort are the black and white onion dome and minarets of the JAMA MASJID, the most elegant mosque in India. Drive past KOTLA FIROZE SHAH, ruins of an old fort of the 14th century with the 13 metre high Ashoka Pillar of 3rd B.C. Visit RAJ GHAT, where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated in 1948. Drive through the old city is subject to traffic restrictions. Later in the day continue the drive to AGRA. On arrival transfer and check in at the hotel. Overnight in Agra.
Day 03	Agra – Jaipur \| The morning is reserved for sightseeing in Agra including the visit of TAJ MAHAL and the AGRA FORT. First of all visit the breathtaking TAJ MAHAL, a poem in white marble, built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaj Mahal. As a tribute to a beautiful woman and as a monument for enduring love, the Taj reveals its subtleties when one visits it without being in a hurry. Only then does the amazing gracefulness appear to the visitor’s eye. With its incredible lacy white grandeur the Taj Mahal is perhaps the most perfect architectural monument in the world. After this visit the AGRA FORT. Situated on the banks of the river Yamuna, this is another monumental mission accomplished by the great Mughal visionary Emperor Akbar. In the afternoon leave for Jaipur, while en route visiting the deserted city of FATEHPUR SIKRI which is approximately 40 kilometres before Agra. This abandoned red sandstone city was built in the 16th century by the Mughal Emperor Akbar, one of India’s greatest rulers. The journey continues to JAIPUR where the enduring charisma of the past blends with the throbbing vitality of today, where a colourful cast of characters presents a fascinating city of tradition and change. It is India’s first planned city, which has remained unique in two and a half centuries. On arrival check in at the hotel. Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 04	Jaipur \| The day begins with a visit to the AMBER FORT, the former seat of the Rajput rulers of Jaipur. Ascending the fortress seated on elephants, wander around the beautiful palaces and visit the SHILADEVI TEMPLE. In the afternoon, visit the open-air royal observatory “JANTAR MANTAR”, with gigantic, astronomical instruments, the CITY PALACE and Museum stopping by the “HAWA MAHAL” or the Palace of Winds. The rest of the day is at leisure with an opportunity to indulge in this shopping heaven with a wide range of local products as well as gems. Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 05	Jaipur - Udaipur \| After breakfast in the morning, the tour starts to UDAIPUR. The city of Udaipur or the ‘city of sunrise’ combines real beauty with a picturesque association of a great and glorious past. It stands in a valley, amidst green hills on the banks of the wide, steel blue LAKE PICHOLA and is regarded as the most romantic spot in India. Crowning the ridge, in which the city clusters, along the shore of the lake, stands the massive Palace Of The MAHARANA. Check in at the hotel and enjoy leisure time. Overnight in Udaipur.
Day 06	Udaipur \| Enjoy a city tour of Udaipur in the morning. Visit the CITY PALACE, once the home of Mewar’s rulers and which is today a museum. Visit SAHELIYON-KI-BARI (Garden of the Maids of Honour) the scene of royal parties for centuries. Drive around FATEH SAGAR LAKE excavated in the late 17th century by Maharaja Jai Singh and past the KALA MANDIR (Puppet Museum) and the CENOTAPH OF MAHARANA PRATAP. And of course last but not the last - the JAGDISH TEMPLE. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on Lake Pichola. Overnight in Udaipur.
Day 07	Udaipur - Jodhpur \| After breakfast in the morning, start the journey to JODHPUR. En route, visit the famous JAIN TEMPLE at Ranakpur. RANAKPUR is situated in the remote and peaceful Aravalli valley. The most famous is the ADINATH TEMPLE, beautifully crafted and wellkept marble edifice, which has 29 halls supported by 1444 pillars – not two of which are alike. Among the five holy Jain sites, this is one of the best temple complexes in the country. Continue to JODHPUR which has certainly one of the country’s most spectacular fortress and palace complexes. It was from here that those baggie tight horse-riding trousers ‘jodhpurs’ took their name. On arrival transfer and check in at hotel. Overnight in Jodhpur.
Day 08	Jodhpur - Jaisalmer \| In the morning, visit the imposing MEHRANGARH FORT, which sprawls along the top of a steep escarpment. Started in 1459 it has walls up to 36 meters high and 21 meters wide towering above the plains. The fort museum has the Maharaja’s private collection of art and artefacts. Stop by to see the well-preserved HALL OF PUBLIC AUDIENCE and the SHEESH MAHAL. In the afternoon, leave Jodhpur for Jaisalmer. Founded by Prince Jaisal in 1156, JAISALMER grew to be a major staging post on the trade route across the forbidding Thar Desert from India to the West. Set in a sea of golden tinged sand, SONAR KILA, a golden fort rises out of a rock of topaz. The entire living area of Jaisalmer lies within the gigantic citadel walls. On arrival transfer and check in at hotel. Overnight in Jaisalmer.
Day 09	Jaisalmer \| Today after breakfast, proceed for half-day city tour of Jaisalmer. Visit the silent 12th century FORT built by Prince Jaisal and the Palace.The uniqueness of this fort is that it is the only ‘living fort’ in Rajasthan. Also visit the JAIN TEMPLES from the 12th to 15th century, which lie within the fort complex. The famous art of the stone carvers of Jaisalmer is evident in the elaborate facades of the yellow sandstone desert havelis (mansions), which glow softly in honey tones. A brief stop at GADHI SAGAR is a must – a man made pond! In the afternoon awaits a camel ride at SAM SAND DUNES. Ride to the smooth, silky sands of Sam sand dunes where the Raikas (camel drovers) travel with their animals over vast distances and know every waterhole and pasture in their region. It is recommended to enjoy a camel ride around the sand dunes by sunset. Overnight in Jaisalmer.
Day 10	Jaisalmer - Bikaner \| Today after breakfast, leave Jaisalmer for Bikaner. BIKANER is a medieval flavoured city set along the old caravan route, which linked Central Asia & North India with the Gujarat seaports. Charming Red Stone Havelis (mansions) (unlike the gold sand stone ones of Jaisalmer) stand in the old part of this walled city and a leisurely lifestyle still prevails in this sublimely picturesque place surrounded by harsh desert. On arrival transfer and check in at hotel. In the afternoon, city tour of Bikaner. Visit the JUNAGARH FORT, one of the finest of Rajput monuments. One must take particular note of the designed ceilings of the various homes in this region - done either in wood or copper plates, which are then covered with intricate painting work. Overnight in Bikaner.
Day 11	Bikaner - Mandawa \| In the morning after breakfast leave Bikaner for MANDAWA. On arrival transfer and check in to the Hotel. The afternoon is reserved for a walking tour to visit the frescos & Havelis of Mandawa. The town of Mandawa emerges like a mirage. A MEDIEVAL FORT (dated around 1750) gradually rises on the horizon. The MANDAWA BAZAAR has many painted houses, parts of which have now been turned into curio shops. The havelis of the Chokanis, the Goenkas and the Sarafs have extravagantly painted frescos. Overnight in Mandawa.
Day 12	Mandawa - Delhi \| After breakfast the tour goes back to Delhi. On arrival proceed straight for a sightseeing tour of NEW DELHI, the new capital designed by Sir Edward Lutyens. Drive past the PRESIDENTIAL PALACE, the RASHTRAPATI BHAVAN and the secretariat buildings - the centre of all government activity and down the main avenue, the impressive RAJPATH to the World War I memorial arch, the INDIA GATE, the HIGH COURT BUILDING and the OLD FORT. Visit Humayun’s Tomb built in 1565 AD by his grieving widow Haji Begum, the Qutub Minar, 72 metres high and the ruins of Quwatul- Eslam (Light of Islam) Mosque. See Delhi’s most curious antique, the unworried IRON PILLAR, which dates back to the 4th century A.D. Visit the BIRLA TEMPLE (Laxmi Narayan), with its many idols. Dinner will be provided in a hotel. Later in time transfer to the international airport to catch a flight for onward destination; alternatively leaving during the early hours on day 13. End of the tour.
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Natural Wonders of India, 16 Days

Day 01	Delhi \| Upon arrival in Delhi, meet the representative at the arrivals lounge who will escort the guests until check in at Hotel. After that, enjoy the free time and overnight in Delhi.
Day 02	Delhi \| In the Morning visit the OLD DELHI including a visit of the RED FORT and JAMA MASJID - the most elegant mosque in India. Drive past KOTLA FIROZE SHAH, the ruins of an old fort of the 14th century with an 13 meter high Ashoka Pillar of the 3rd B.C. After that, visit RAJ GHAT, where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated in 1948. In the afternoon, the city tour of NEW DELHI continues. Drive past the RASHTRAPATI BHAVAN and the secretariat buildings. Also on the schedule is a visit to the HUMAYUN’S TOMB and the QUTUB MINAR. After an exciting day of discovering the city return to the hotel. Overnight in Delhi.
Day 03	Delhi - Jaipur \| Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before leaving to the “pink city” JAIPUR. The journey of 265 kilometers goes along stunning scenery. Observe the local life along the way of approximately 5 hours driving. Upon arrival in Jaipur, transfer to the hotel and check in. In the evening, take a first trip around the old city in a truly unique mode of transport – the Rickshaw. A long day comes to an end. Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 04	Jaipur \| The day begins with a visit to the AMBER FORT, ascending the fortress seated on elephants; visit the Fort and the SHILADEVI TEMPLE (which continues to be the private temple of the Royal family) with its exquisite marble carvings and silver door. In the afternoon visit the open-air royal observatory JANTAR MANTAR, the CITY PALACE and the MUSEUM. Along the way, stop by at the HAWA MAHAL or the Palace of Winds. Return to the hotel. Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 05	Jaipur - Ranthambhore \| After taking the breakfast in the morning get ready for the 180 kilometers or 3.5 hours drive to RANTHAMBHORE. The Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve (near Sawai Madhopur) is known for its spectacular scenery. The sanctuary is a system of lakes and rivers - hemmed by steep, high crags and the remains of a thousand year old fortress and temple. The park apart from housing tigers, leopard and the sloth bear also provides a congenial habitat for the ‘chital’ or spotted deer and sambar, the largest of the Asiatic deer. Woodland, ground and water birds also bound in the area, including the uncommon red jungle owl and eagle. After the meeting with the tigers, transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Ranthambhore.
Day 06	Ranthambhore \| Today is reserved for a complete morning and afternoon Safari throughout this nature reserve. While accompanied by a naturalist one can learn more about the flora & fauna of this beautiful place and other interesting details. In the evening retire back to the hotel. Overnight in Ranthambhore.
Day 07	Ranthambhore - Agra \| The tour starts early in the morning on a 325 kilometer long journey to AGRA. Along the approximately 7 hour drive; stop at the deserted red sandstone city of FATEHPUR SIKRI. The abandoned red sandstone city built in the 16th century by the Mughal Emperor Akbar, one of India’s greatest rulers. Remarkably broadminded for his time, this Muslim king married a Rajput princess in order to win over his Hindu subjects. The architecture at Fatehpur Sikri is a combination of Hindu and Muslim styles, expressing Akbar’s vision of synthesizing the cultures. Once arrived in Agra, transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Agra.
Day 08	Agra \| Awake today and get ready to witness the most exciting and best-known landmark in India – the TAJ MAHAL a poem in white marble, built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaj Mahal. As a tribute to a beautiful woman and as a monument for enduring love, the Taj reveals its subtleties when one visits it without being in a hurry. Only then does the amazing gracefulness appear to the visitor’s eye. With its incredible lacy white grandeur the Taj Mahal is perhaps the most perfect architectural monument in the world. Continue to the AGRA FORT which is situated on the banks of the river Yamuna. This is another monumental mission accomplished by the great Mughal visionary Emperor Akbar. The Palaces, mosques and audience halls contained within its massive wall of red sandstone are perfect examples of blending Islamic and Hindu traditions. Before the sun sets, return once again to the Taj Mahal and enjoy the sunset view. With a lot of memorable experiences from today’s sightseeing, retire back to the hotel. Overnight in Agra.
Day 09	Agra - Jhansi - Khajuraho \| Wake up early today to be on time at the railway station and board SHATABDI EXPRESS Train to Jhansi. After arriving in JHANSI, the journey continues on the road to Khajuraho. Once arrived in KHAJURAHO, start the city tour in the afternoon visiting the world famous Khajuraho temples built by Chandela kings between 250 A.D. and 1050 A.D. Overnight in Khajuraho.
Day 10	Khajuraho - Bandhavgarh \| Enjoy breakfast in the morning to get prepared for today’s journeys. The road leads to yet another highlight of this tour. Drive around 280 kilometers or 6 hours to the town of Bandhavgarh. BANDHAVGARH (pronounced Bandogarh) is not very far from south of Rewa, famous as the place in which the (albino) white tiger originated. Now it is only found in zoos. Before becoming a National Park in 1968, it was the game preserve of the maharajas of Rewa. There are also interesting cave shrines scattered around the park, with Brahmi inscriptions dating from the 1st century B.C. Visit the archaeological remains of a fort believed to be 2,000 years old where one may spot crag martins and brown rock thrush. Overnight in Bandhavgarh.
Day 11	Bandhavgarh \| After breakfast in the morning, start to explore the nature of BANDHAVGARH PARK with its wide variety of game. Its main wild beasts are tiger, leopard, sloth bear, gaur, sambar, chital, muntjac, nilgai, chinkara, wild pigs apart from the abundant flora and fauna. Learn interesting details and insight about this beautiful surrounding on a jungle safari accompanied by a naturalist. Overnight in Bandhavgarh.
Day 12	Bandhavgarh - Kanha \| Today the journey continues on a 4.5 hours drive to the next exciting meeting with the tiger. Enjoy the breakfast in the morning and start the 210 kilometer drive to Kanha. Kipling wrote so vividly about this Park in his Jungle Books. The same abundance of wildlife and variety of species still exists today and the park which forms the core of the KANHA TIGER RESERVE (1,945 sq. km) within the game reserve, created in 1974, also protects the rare hard - ground - adapted barasingha (swamp deer). Retiring back with abundant impressions and wildlife experience to the hotel. Overnight in Kanha.
Day 13	Kanha \| Go on an extensive Jungle Safari with a naturalist in the morning and afternoon to learn more about the area. KANHA has 22 species and the most easily spotted are three-striped palm squirrel, common langur monkey, jackal, wild pig, cheetah, rasingha and blackbuck. Less commonly seen are tiger, Indian hare, dhole (Indian wild dog), sambar and gaur. Rarely seen are Indian fox, sloth bear, striped hyena, panther (leopard), nilgai (blue bull), Indian porcupine, wolf (outside park proper) and the Indian pangolin (sometimes called the scaly anteater). Kanha has 230 species recorded, more to be found. Good vantage points are in the hills where the mixed bamboo forests harbors many species. Commonly seen species are leaf warblers, minivets, black ibis, common peafowl, racket-tailed drongo, hawk eagle, red-wattled lapwing and various species of flycatcher, woodpecker, pigeon, dove, parakeet, babbler, mynah, Indian roller, white-breasted kingfisher and grey hornbill. Overnight in Kanha.
Day 14	Kanha - Nagpur - Mumbai \| Enjoy some time off in the morning. In the afternoon transfer to the Nagpur airport to catch the flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival the representative will be waiting at the airport and assist until the check in at Hotel. Overnight in Mumbai.
Day 15	Mumbai \| In the morning come on an excursion to the ELEPHANTA CAVES. In the afternoon, enjoy a city tour of MUMBAI visiting the GATEWAY OF INDIA, drive past the VICTORIA TERMINUS, MARINE DRIVE and visit the HANGING GARDENS and the JAIN TEMPLE. Last but not the least, make a brief stop at “DHOBI GHAT” - the Indian laundry system. Capture the moment in pictures before returning to the hotel. Overnight in Mumbai.
Day 16	Mumbai \| In time transfer to the international airport to catch the connecting flight to onward destination. End of the tour.
***

Enchanting South India, 11 days

Day 01	Chennai \| On arrival in CHENNAI, meet our representative outside the customs enclosure and get escorted till check in at the Hotel. Chennai is the cultural heartland & gateway to South India. In the afternoon enjoy a city tour of Chennai. Visit FORT ST. GEORGE, completed in 1653 and today filled with reminders of the past, including St. Mary’s, the first church consecrated on Indian soil. The NATIONAL ART GALLERY has many excellent bronzes including the famous Chola period bronze Nataraja, the God Shiva, in the cosmic dance pose. The GOVERNMENT MUSEUM (closed on Fridays), which contains sculpture and architecture produced by the Dravidian dynasties. Drive along the MARINA, an elegant promenade and proceed to the old Indian section of Mylapore. Visit SAN THOME BASILICA. Overnight in Chennai.
Day 02	Chennai – Kanchipuram – Mahalipuram - Chennai \| After breakfast start this day’s excursion to Kanchipuram and Mahablipuram. The Golden City of KANCHIPURAM has about 125 shrines, all of them centuries old, dating back to the early Cholas of 200 B.C. Kanchipuram‘s other claim to fame is its silk, renowned for more than four centuries. MAHABALIPURAM is a beautiful beach resort which consists of a tiny village by the sea in which all else is dwarfed by a dream world of awesome Tamil art, an open air museum of sculpture in living rock. The best known landmark of Mahabalipuram is the SHORE TEMPLE, which has stood by the sea for 12 centuries. The other wonders of Mahablipuram are the mandapams, each a cave scooped from a hillside of solid rock and ornamented with pillars, sculptured with panels and with rathams (monolithic rock-cut shrines). Overnight in Chennai.
Day 03	Chennai - Pondicherry \| Today it’s time to say goodbye to Chennai and head to PONDICHERRY. This was the former capital of the French territories in India. Landmarks include the RAJ NIVAS, the residence of the Lt. Governor of Pondicherry – a handsome 200- year-old building which faces Government Park (French Place) with its well laid out paths and lawns, a few fountains and a number of sculptures. The ROMAIN ROLLAND LIBRARY has over 60,000 volumes on its shelves. The PONDICHERRY MUSEUM has an outstanding collection of artefacts relating to all aspects of the French Indian past. The CHURCH OF NOTRE DAME DES ANGES was built around 1865. Visit AUROBINDO ASHRAM, the best known landmark of Pondicherry. The Ashram, in addition to practising yoga, also provides scope for practical activity for its followers who come from all over the world. Auroville is an extension of the Aurobindo Ashram. It is a voluntary commune, 6 miles (10 kilometres) northwest of Pondicherry where around 800 people from 28 nations live. On arrival transfer and check in at hotel. In the afternoon, explore the city on an extensive tour to witness this historical place. Overnight in Pondicherry.
Day 04	Pondicherry - Tanjore \| In the morning the journey continues to Tanjore with en route visits of CHIDAMBARAM and DARASURAM. Chidambaram is a sprawling ancient temple renowned for its architecture encompassing the complete pose sequences of the classical South Indian Bharat Natyam dance, from which originated the revived dance in its present popular form. The final destination on this day is TANJORE - famous for the BRIHADEESWARA TEMPLE with its gopurams over 90 ft. (27 m) high and its exquisitely sculpted structure. On arrival transfer and check in at the hotel and enjoy time at leisure. Overnight in Tanjore.
Day 05	Tanjore \| Discover the city of Tanjore on a full day sightseeing tour. Visit the famous BRIHADEESWARA TEMPLE. Walk along the vast courtyard leading to the main temple that stands guarded by two sentries carved out of single stones. Facing the sanctum is a nandi (bull) Shiva’s favourite vehicle. The corridors around the sanctum have many sculptures as well as Chola frescoes which were recently discovered. The Palace and the remains of the fort that surround it can still be seen. Members of the former royal family of Thanjavur still occupy some apartments in the inner recesses but the Palace is now mainly used as an art gallery. Overnight in Tanjore.
Day 06	Tanjore - Madurai \| In the morning after breakfast, leave Tanjore for Madurai with an en route visit of TRICHY. This historical town was for a period the capital of the Chola rulers. Visit the ROCK FORT which dominates the landscape. At its summit is a Ganesha Temple, a popular place of worship. Visit the island of SRIRANGAM across the River Kaveri – 3 Miles (5 km) away. The temple here is practically a town in itself with several residential streets within its 1 sq. mile together with a number of shopping streets. Its annual winter festival attracts thousands of devotees. The visitor can wander around freely in most parts of the temple. Continue to journey to MADURAI. On arrival check in at the hotel. Overnight in Madurai.
Day 07	Madurai \| In the morning, get ready for a city tour of Madurai. The `Temple City’ was the capital of the Pandya kingdom, but it was during the reign of the Nayaks from the 10th to the 18th century that the magnificent MEENAKSHI TEMPLE and many more structures were created in and around Madurai. Visit the PALACE OF THIRUMALAI NAYAK, the most famous king of the Nayak dynasty. It has a great audience hall, a three-sided pavilion and a courtyard. In the evening, witness the “AARTI” a must see for all visitors. The Consort of Goddess Durga – Shiva is brought to her chamber in procession. This procession goes around the temple, and has various short ceremonies at different shrines, before the final prayer at the entrance of her chamber. The entire procession takes 45 minutes. Overnight in Madurai.
Day 08	Madurai - Periyar \| After breakfast in the hotel, the tour continues to the PERIYAR WILDLIFE SANCTUARY set high in the ranges of the Western Ghats, in God’s Own Country, Kerala. The Periyar Wildlife sanctuary has a picturesque lake at the heart of the sanctuary. Though it’s a Tiger Reserve, tourists come here to view the Indian elephants in the act of ablution and playfulness by the Periyar Lake. On arrival transfer and check in at hotel. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on the PERIYAR LAKE and enjoy the view of wild life and water birds, herds of elephants and bison coming to the lake shores and maybe it’s even possible to sport some deer and sambhar. Overnight in Periyar.
Day 09	Periyar - Alleppy \| Enjoy breakfast and start the journey to ALLEPPY. En route, there is a chance to visit Spice Plantation. On arrival check in at the hotel. Later in the afternoon, explore the surrounding and also take a boat ride on the back water. Overnight in Alleppy.
Day 10	Alleppy - Cochin \| In the morning, get ready to leave Alleppy and head for Cochin. COCHIN, originally built by the Portuguese, has a natural harbour with lagoons, canals and fishing hamlets. An excursion by boat through the backwaters is enchanting. On arrival check in at the hotel first, and then in the afternoon, proceed for a city tour of Cochin. Visit the MATTANCHERRY DUTCH PALACE - which was built by the Portuguese in 1555 and renovated by the Dutch in 1663. Visit a JEWISH SYNAGOGUE in Jew Town and Fort Cochin Area - Legend dates Jewish trade with Kerala from the times of King Solomon. There are a couple of streets of picture postcard houses out of another age, in the 17th century Dutch and traditional Kerala styles. Visit ST. FRANCIS CHURCH – the oldest European Church in India. It has several antiquities including a wealth of records. See the Chinese Fishing Nets, along the tip of Fort Cochin unique to this part of Kerala and living symbols of a centuries-old Chinese influence on this coast. To end this exciting day, sit back and relax while witnessing the KATHAKALI dance at the Auditorium. Kathakali performances, a dance-drama based on the ancient epics forming among the most colourful of the country’s stage tradition. Overnight in Alleppy.
Day 11	Cochin \| In the morning, in time transfer to the international airport for connecting flight to onward destination. End of the tour.
***

Golf Tour through India, 8 days

Day 01	Delhi \| Arrival in Delhi where the representative will assist and transfer to the hotel. DELHI - the Empress of Indian cities has a fascinating history and a stimulating present. She has often been sacked and left naked and desolate. But she could not be despoiled of the incomparable situation that marks her for the metropolis of a Great Empire. The capital of India, Delhi has been the seat of power of a number of dynasties – the Rajputs, the Afghans, the Turks and the Mughals who continued their imperial line until the British. Scattered over are surviving ruins, remnants of mighty edifices, tombs of warriors and saints, which in an impressive sense of magnificence are memorials not of a single city but of supplanted nations. Overnight in Delhi.
Day 02	Delhi – Golf at Delhi Golf Club \| After breakfast in the hotel, enjoy combined sightseeing of Old and New Delhi in the morning. First drive past the RED FORT, built in 1648 by Mughal Emperor Shahjehan, Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, RAJ GHAT and SHANTI VANA - the cremation sites of Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru. Also drive past CHANDNI CHOWK, shopping centre and visiting New Delhi QUTAB MINAR built by Qutab-ud-din-Aibek in 1199, INDIA GATE (War memorial arch), LAKSHMINARAYAN TEMPLE - a modern Hindu temple. Another interesting place to see is the President’s House, Parliament House and Government Secretariat Buildings. The afternoon is reserved for the DELHI GOLF CLUB. This Golf course dates back to 1931 and offers undulating fairways, lush vegetation; deep bunkers. Renovated in 1977 by Peter Thompson it also offers winter golfing. While playing Golf here, historical monuments such as the red sandstone Lal Bangla and the tomb of an emperor’s favorite concubine pass by. It is a sanctuary for over 300 bird species and features over 200 different kinds of trees. Overnight in Delhi.
Day 03	Delhi – Golf at Jaypee Greens Golf Club Noida \| In the morning proceed for full day Golf play at JAYPEE GREEN – Golf Club Noida (U.P.). Measuring about 1500 sq ft in area, the pro shop at the Jaypee greens stocks top-of-the–line, advanced golfing equipment and accessories of quality that is at par with the latest and the best in the international market. This Golf course is a historical one the location of the Battle of Delhi. Some water hazards as per a water drain that runs through fairways 8, 10, 11, and 17. A large lake is featured on the 7th hole which is also the tightest. Overnight in Delhi.
Day 04	Delhi – Jaipur – Golf at Classic Golf Resort \| After the breakfast in the morning leave by surface for JAIPUR. Along the journey, stop to play Golf at (ITC – Golf Course) CLASSIC GOLF RESORT, South Asian’s first signature championship course designed by the great Jack ‘Golden Bear’ Nicklaus at the foothills of the picturesque Aravalli hills. After playing Golf proceed for JAIPUR where the enduring charisma of the past blends with the throbbing vitality of today, where a colorful cast of characters presents a fascinating city of tradition and change. It is India’s first planned city, which has remained unique in two and a half centuries. Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 05	Jaipur – Golf at Rambagh Golf Club \| Today’s excursion leads to AMBER FORT just 7 miles north of Jaipur. Visit the honey-colored fortress-palace in the Aravalli Hills which can be mounted by elephant. It has been described as “the sleeping beauty of Rajasthan”. The somber exterior belies the richness of the royal apartments, which open on to striking views of the gorge. It also possesses a Chamber of Mirrors. The HALL OF VICTORY presents a galaxy of decorative art - panels of alabaster with fine inlay work of the tenderness hues. Subject to availability an Elephant Ride will be provided, otherwise a Jeep will be provided. The afternoon is reserved for Golf at RAMBAGH GOLF CLUB. There is only one recognized golf club in Jaipur – Rambagh Golf Club which is located just adjacent to the hotel Rambagh Palace and at a distance of 05 – 07 kilometers from all the other good hotels. Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 06	Jaipur – Agra \| In the morning proceed for AGRA by surface. Along the way, visit FATEHPUR SIKRI which is 40 kilometers from Agra and was built during 1571 and 1585. Today this ghost city has a population of about 30,000. This deserted city has retained many of the old structures, because of the efforts of the Archaeological department. Fatehpur Sikri is one of the finest examples of Mughal architectural splendor at its height. Though the city is in ruins, it is a place to visit if one comes to Agra. But in real terms Fatehpur Sikri is a place where one should spend some time. The sunset over the ruins is sight to cherish. Fatehpur Sikri is the best example of the culmination of Hindu and Muslim architecture. Fatehpur Sikri Mosque is said to be a copy of the mosque in Mecca and has designs, derived from the Persian & Hindu architecture. Continue the journey to Agra, check in and overnight in Agra.
Day 07	Agra \| The day starts with a city tour of Agra. First of all visit the breathtaking TAJ MAHAL, a poem in white marble, built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaj Mahal. As a tribute to a beautiful woman and as a monument for enduring love, the Taj reveals its subtleties when one visits it without being in a hurry. Only then does the amazing gracefulness appear to the visitor’s eye. The Taj is pinkish in the morning, milky white in the evening and golden when the moon shines. These changes, they say, depict the different moods of woman. With its incredible lacy white grandeur the Taj Mahal is perhaps the most perfect architectural monument in the world. Enjoy a ride on a decorated rickshaw to the Taj from Jaypee Palace hotel Gate. After this impressive monument continue to the AGRA FORT. Built alongside the Yamuna River stretching almost 2.5 km, the fort’s colossal double walls rise 20 m in height and measure 2.5 km in circumference. The fort contains splendid palaces both in red sandstone and white marble built by two generations of prolific builders, Akbar and later on by Jahangir and Shahjahan. Overnight in Agra.
Day 08	Agra - Delhi \| In the morning enjoy time at leisure. Check out from the hotel at 1200 Hrs. Leave by surface for Delhi. On arrival no hotel envisaged. Transfer in time to the airport for connecting flight. End of the tour.
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India & Nepal, 10 days

Day 01	Delhi \| Arrive in the early hours and transfer to the Hotel. The morning is free at leisure. In the afternoon, start exploring OLD DELHI, including the RED FORT, RAJGHAT and bazaars and later the leafy avenues of NEW DELHI. Here, admire the tower of QUTAB MINAR, the TOMB OF HUMAYUN, RAJPATH, the imposing INDIA GATE, Parliament House and the President’s residence (Rashtrapati Bhawan). Overnight in Delhi.
Day 02	Delhi - Jaipur \| This morning depart by road to JAIPUR which is approximately 260 kilometers or 5 hours drive time. Upon arrival check-in to the Hotel and enjoy some time to relax. Overnight Jaipur.
Day 03	Jaipur \| The day begins with a visit to the AMBER FORT, ascending the fortress seated on elephants; visit the Fort and the SHILADEVI TEMPLE (which continues to be the private temple of the Royal family) with its exquisite marble carvings and silver door. In the afternoon visit the open-air royal observatory JANTAR MANTAR, the CITY PALACE and the MUSEUM. Along the way, stop by at the HAWA MAHAL or the Palace of Winds. Return to the hotel. Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 04	Jaipur - Agra \| The tour starts early in the morning on a 245 kilometer long journey to AGRA. Along the drive, stop at the deserted red sandstone city of FATEHPUR SIKRI. The abandoned red sandstone city built in the 16th century by the Mughal Emperor Akbar, one of India’s greatest rulers. The architecture at Fatehpur Sikri is a combination of Hindu and Muslim styles, expressing Akbar’s vision of synthesizing the cultures. Continue then to visit the breathtaking TAJ MAHAL, a poem in white marble, built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaj Mahal. With its incredible lacy white grandeur the Taj Mahal is perhaps the most perfect architectural monument in the world. Later on, visit Agra’s vast RED FORT. Built alongside the Yamuna River stretching almost 2.5 km, the fort’s colossal double walls rise 20 m in height and measure 2.5 km in circumference. The magnificent towers, bastions and ramparts and majestic gateways symbolized the confidence and power of the third Mughal emperor. The fort contains splendid palaces both in red sandstone and white marble built by two generations of prolific builders, Akbar and later on by Jahangir and Shahjahan. Overnight in Agra.
Day 05	Agra – Jhansi - Khajuraho \| Wake up early today to be on time at the railway station and board SHATABDI EXPRESS TRAIN to Jhansi. After arriving in Jhansi, the journey continues for another 172 kilometers on the road to KHAJURAHO. Along the way, visit the MEDIEVAL ORCHHA. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Khajuraho.
Day 06	Khajuraho - Varanasi \| In the morning, enjoy the world famous KHAJURAHO TEMPLES. In the afternoon, the journey continues to VARANASI by air. Transfer to the hotel, while visiting the the famous SARNATH – where Buddha gave his first sermon en route. Overnight in Varanasi.
Day 07	Varanasi - Kathmandu \| Leave in the early morning for a boat ride on the holy river GANGES to see the bathing ghats and cremation sites. Later on, continue with a city tour of Varanasi. The tour includes visits of the BHARAT MATA TEMPLE, TULSI MANAS TEMPLE, DURGA TEMPLE and drives past BENARAS HINDU UNIVERSITY. After finishing the sightseeing, transfer to the airport for connecting flight to Kathmandu. Meeting and assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is free for walking through the local bazaars. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 08	Kathmandu \| Enjoy a half day city tour in the morning and discover Kathmandu’s most important sights. Visit the DURBAR SQUARE, HANUMAN DHOKA, the ancient ROYAL RESIDENTIAL QUARTER and the MAHADEV and PARVATI TEMPLE. In the afternoon take an excursion to SWAYAMBHUNATH and PATAN – known as the City of Grace and Fine Arts. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 09	Kathmandu \| Today starts with a half day excursion to BHADGANON, PASHUPATINATH and BODHNATH. The rest of the day is free at leisure. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 10	Kathmandu - Delhi \| Rest in the morning and enjoy leisure time. Later transfer to the airport for the connecting flight to Delhi. Assistance on arrival is provided for the connecting flight to the onward destination. An overnight stay can be envisaged in Delhi depending on onward flight departure. End of the tour.
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Treasures of Central India, 8 days

Day 01	Delhi \| Arrive in Delhi with the morning flight and transfer to the hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free at leisure. Overnight in Delhi.
Day 02	Delhi - Agra \| In the morning transfer to the train station for the day trip to AGRA – home of the famous and breathtaking TAJ MAHAL, a poem in white marble, built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaj Mahal. As a tribute to a beautiful woman and as a monument for enduring love, the Taj reveals its subtleties when one visits it without being in a hurry. Only then does the amazing gracefulness appear to the visitor’s eye. With its incredible lacy white grandeur the Taj Mahal is perhaps the most perfect architectural monument in the world. Overnight in Agra.
Day 03	Agra - Gwalior \| Today awaits another trip with the train. The way leads to GWALIOR to explore the sprawling fort with its characteristic blue enamel work and the SAS-BAHU TEMPLES. Visit the extravagant JAI VILAS PALACE of the Scindia family before checking-in to the Hotel for an overnight stay. This evening enjoy a fantastic Son-et-Lumiere show at the fort. Overnight in Gwalior.
Day 04	Gwalior - Bhopal \| The journey continues on board the SHATABDI EXPRESS TRAIN to Bhopal – an historic town set amidst scenic lakes. Once arrived, transfer to the hotel for check in. In the afternoon there is time to explore the interesting mosques of Bhopal. Overnight in Bhopal.
Day 05	Bhopal \| After breakfast in the hotel start the day trip to a World Heritage site 46 kilometers south of BHOPAL. Explore and enjoy the scenery along this 90 minutes drive to BHIMBETKA. This place has been just recently named as World Heritage site due to the discovery of over 600 rock shelters and caves containing paintings depicting the local lifestyle dating from the upper Paleolithic period. In the afternoon, visit BHOJPUR and the 11th century SHIVA TEMPLE. Overnight in Bhopal.
Day 06	Bhopal - Ujjain - Indore \| The drive today goes via Ujjain to INDORE which is roughly 240 kilometers from Bhopal. The city traces its origin to the very dawn of Indian history and has a great tradition of learning and culture. On arrival check-in to the Hotel for an overnight stay. Later in the day, visit the temple of MAHAKALESHWAR, OBSERVATORY OF MASONRY, JANTAR MANTAR, bathing ghats of Shipra River and Gopal Mandir a 19th century temple of Maratha style architecture. Overnight in Indore.
Day 07	Indore - Maheshwar \| After breakfast drive approximately 95 kilometers (around 3 hours driving time) to MAHESHWAR via Omkareshwar on the banks of the sacred Narmada River. Once the capital of Queen Ahilya Bai Holkar, the FORTRESS OF AHILYA FORT has been converted into a boutique property of discrete charm by the Holkar family. Overnight in Maheshwar.
Day 08	Maheshwar - Indore - Delhi \| Transfer to Indore which is 95 kilometers drive. From here, connect to the flight to Delhi. Upon arrival transfer to the Hotel where a room will be available for use prior to the international return flight. End of the tour.
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