India. By Oberoi. Exclusively for the programme attendees of Knight Frank

Transcription

1 India. By Oberoi. Exclusively for the programme attendees of Knight Frank

2 India Indonesia Dubai Mauritius Egypt Saudi Arabia

3 A legacy of globally acclaimed luxury business and leisure hotels THE OBEROI UDAIVILAS, UDAIPUR Best hotel in the world in 2007 Travel + Leisure, Readers Poll THE OBEROI, GURGAON Voted world s leading luxury hotel in 2013 World Travel Awards THE OBEROI VANYAVILAS, RANTHAMBHORE Best hotel in the world in 2010 Travel + Leisure, Readers Poll

4 North Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas The Oberoi Rajvilās, Jaipur Agra The City of Taj Mahal West The Oberoi Udaivilās, Udaipur The Oberoi Vanyavilās, Ranthambhore East The Oberoi, Mumbai The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda, Backwater Cruiser, Kerala South

5 Agra Agra is the only city in the world that boasts of three UNESCO World Heritage Sites the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort and the old capital of Fatehpur Sikri, legacies of the Mughal Empire from the 16th and 17th centuries.

6 The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra Located 600 meters from the monument of love, Taj Mahal, the hotel encapsulates its beauty & romance.

7 Places of interest Taj Mahal Built as a mausoleum in memory of Emperor Shah Jahan s wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal, often described as poetry in marble, is considered to be the most beautiful monument in the world. The layout of the complex with its gardens and fountains is similar to that of an Islamic garden of paradise. Over 20,000 craftsmen labored for 22 years to build this magnificent structure that needs to be seen and experienced at different times of the day to appreciate its grandeur. Agra Fort Agra Fort was built by Emperor Akbar between 1565 A.D. and 1573 A.D. Its imposing red sandstone ramparts form a crescent along the riverfront and encompass an enormous complex of courtly buildings, ranging in style from the early eclectism of Akbar to the sublime simplicity of Emperor Shah Jehan. Keoladeo Ghana National Park Keoladeo Ghana National Park, situated 54 kilometers from Agra on the eastern edge of Rajasthan, is one of Asia s finest sanctuaries for local and migratory, water and waterside birds, including the rare Siberian Crane. Spread over an area of 30 square kilometers, the park is a rare and valuable nature conservation area and is a World Heritage site. Itmad-ud-Daulah Lyrically described as a jewel box in marble, the small, yet elegant garden tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, the Lord Treasurer of the Mughal empire, was built over a period of six years from 1622 A.D. It was built by his daughter Empress Nur Jehan, Jehangir s favorite wife. This tomb is a brilliant combination of white marble, colored mosaic, stone inlay and latticework. Fatehpur Sikri Built by Emperor Akbar in 1571 A.D. in honor of the famous Sufi saint Salim Chisti, Fatehpur Sikri was the capital of the Mughal empire for 14 years. A fine example of a Mughal walled city with well-defined public and private areas and imposing gateways, its architecture is a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles, reflecting Akbar s secular vision as well as his style of governance.

8 North Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas Jaipur City of Forts and Gems Stones The Oberoi Amarvilās, Agra West The Oberoi Udaivilās, Udaipur The Oberoi Vanyavilās, Ranthambhore East The Oberoi, Mumbai The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda, Backwater Cruiser, Kerala South

9 Jaipur For centuries, travellers from all over the world have been drawn to the majesty and colour of Rajasthan and its capital city, Jaipur. Founded more than 250 years ago by Maharaja Jai Singh II, Jaipur is also known as the Pink City.

10 The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur Recreating the glory of princely Rajasthan, the hotel is designed in a beautiful fort setting.

11 Places of interest Amber Fort Amber was the first royal residence of the Maharajas. Today it stands with magnificent glory and consists of complex palaces, halls, pavilions, gardens and temples built by Raja Man Singh, Mirza Raja Jai Singh and Sawai Jai Singh over a period of 125 years and completed in the 17th century. A visit to Amber is a must for any visitor to Jaipur. The Albert Hall The beautiful Indo-Victorian structure of the Albert hall designed by Sir Swinton Jacob was opened in 1887 A.D. as a public museum. It contains a fine collection of sculptures, paintings, decorative art objects, natural history specimens, an Egyptian mummy and the celebrated Persian garden carpet. City Palace The former ruling family of Jaipur still lives in the Chandra Mahal or Moon Palace, now popularly known as the City Palace. The outer and the inner courtyard have been converted into a public museum. It houses an extensive collection of rare manuscripts, Mughal and Rajasthani miniatures, Mughal carpets, and other royal paraphernalia. A visit to the City Palace is highly recommended for any visitor to Jaipur. Jaigarh Fort Above Amber fort lies the Jaigarh fort. It is one of the few military structures of medieval India preserved almost intact. It contains palaces, gardens, open and covered reservoirs, a granary, an armory, a well planned cannon foundry, several temples and a tall tower. It also has a giant mounted cannon - the Jai Ban - one of the largest cannons in the country. While Amber was the royal residence, guarding it stood the military fortress of Jaigarh. Hawa Mahal Built by Sawai Pratap Singh in the 18th century, Hawa Mahal has unique and fascinating facade with five storeys of windows, with latticed stone screens. From these screened windows, the ladies of the court would view the city below. Nahargarh Fort This fort stands guard over Jaipur; on a sheer rock face about 2 kilometers from the city centre, dominating the skyline. The immense walls and bastions are well preserved. Built by the Maharaja Jai Singh II, this fort was used as his military base. The main attraction is the Hawa Mandir and Madhuvendra Bhawan used by Jai Singh II for housing his nine wives. It is also famous for its painting and artwork.

12 North Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas West The Oberoi Rajvilās, Jaipur Udaipur City of Lakes and Palaces The Oberoi Amarvilās, Agra The Oberoi Vanyavilās, Ranthambhore East The Oberoi, Mumbai The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda, Backwater Cruiser, Kerala South

13 Udaipur Udaipur, rated the Best City in the World by the readers of Travel + Leisure magazine in A glittering oasis in the heart of Rajasthan, the city has magnificent forts, palaces and temples.

14 The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur Rooms with terraces that open on to semi-private swimming pools are a unique feature of this hotel.

15 Places of interest City Palace The City Palace stands on a hill on the banks of Lake Pichola, surrounded by crenulated walls. Founded in 1567 A.D., it is composed of four major palaces and several minor palaces that form a single façade. Its main entrance is through a triple arched gate, the Tripolia, built in 1725 A.D. The gate leads to a series of courtyards, corridors and gardens. A visit to the City Palace is highly recommended. Jagdish Temple Built in 1651 A.D. by Maharana Jagat Singh I and dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple has an imposing 79 feet high pagoda covered with sculptures of dancers, musicians, elephants and horsemen. It is the city s largest and most resplendent temple. Sajjan Garh Also known as the Monsoon Palace, it is located on top of a hill overlooking Lake Pichola and dominates the city s skyline. Built in the late 19th century by Maharana Sajjan Singh as an observatory, it has a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding lakes, rivers and Aravalli ranges. It is surrounded by wooded hillsides and was once a royal hunting ground. Crystal Gallery The Crystal Gallery in Fateh Prakash Hotel overlooks the grand Durbar Hall. It has a rare collection of Osler s crystal ordered from England by Maharana Sajjan Singh in 1877 A.D. It includes crystal chandeliers and crystal furniture like chairs, dressing tables and a bed. Sahelion ki Bari Maharana Sangram Singh built this garden for his daughter and the ladies of the Queen s court. It is said he wished to recreate the monsoon for his daughter, who had been ill for a long period. The garden has many fountains in four pools embellished with delicately chiselled pavilions and elephants. The fountains still work on the unique hydraulic system devised in 1700 A.D. Fateh Sagar Lake Built by Maharana Fateh Singh, this elegant lake is surrounded by hills on three sides and a dam on the fourth side. A boat ride to Nehru Park, an island garden, can be arranged from the banks of the lake.

16 North Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas The Oberoi Rajvilās, Jaipur The Oberoi Amarvilās, Agra West The Oberoi Udaivilās, Udaipur Ranthambhore City of Royal Bengal Tiger East The Oberoi, Mumbai The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda, Backwater Cruiser, Kerala South

17 Ranthambhore Ranthambhore was once the private hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur. In 1955 it was declared a National Park under the Save the Tiger initiative and is probably the best place to spot the Royal Bengal Tiger.

18 Ranked the 2nd best resort in Asia: Condé Nast Traveler, USA The Oberoi Vanyavilas, a luxury jungle resort, is located adjacent to the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve. Complementing the jungle surroundings are luxury tents with private walled gardens. With its natural beauty, serenity and proximity to the Reserve, the resort provides a unique opportunity to enjoy wildlife in its natural habitat.

19 Places of interest Ranthambhore Fort Nearly 1000 years old, the fort is situated on a hill rising 250 meters above the densely forested valleys. It has majestic ramparts, massive gates and bastions and is a vantage point for bird watching. On rare occasions, tigers can also be spotted from the top of the fort. Walking in the National Park is prohibited but you can walk around the fort. A 20-minute walk takes you up to the fort and all around are the remains of old water tanks, palaces and mosques. The Ranthambhore Fort also houses a very famous Ganesh Temple where hundreds of people throng during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. It is also the only temple in the world with a mail box wherein millions of devotees send in their invitation and prayers to Lord Ganesha and His family to bless their homes during auspicious celebrations. Sawai Madhopur Villages near this township on the outskirts of the park are famous for folk arts, especially the distinctive decorative paintings that adorn the walls of the mud houses in the area. Visit to Dhonk and Dastakar Guests interested in shopping local art and craft may visit Dhonk and Dastakar which are co-operative women s societies set up to engage village women in self sustenance and also promote local art and craft. A wide range of quality products are available ranging from clothing, household furnishing to children s toys which are produced on site. Ranthambhore School of Art Ranthambhore is famous for the exquisite tiger paintings on silk and charcoal sketches alike. You may visit the home studio of Ranthambhore s most famous artist, Mr. M.D. Parashar whose Tiger Eye sketch is renowned over the world and especially his own unique technique of Soot Sketching. A recipient of many National and International awards, Mr. Parashar leads a simple and exemplary life. To enable young locals a sustainable livelihood, he opened Ranthambhore School of Art, which provides free painting classes.

20 North Shimla City of Himalayas The Oberoi Rajvilās, Jaipur The Oberoi Amarvilās, Agra West The Oberoi Udaivilās, Udaipur The Oberoi Vanyavilās, Ranthambhore East The Oberoi, Mumbai The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda, Backwater Cruiser, Kerala South

21 Shimla The Himalayas For centuries, the majestic Himalayas have fascinated travellers and evoked a sense of awe and admiration. Nestled in the mid western ranges of the Himalayas is Shimla, the summer capital during the British rule.

22 Ranked 2nd best resort in Asia: Condé Nast Traveller, UK 2010 Readers Choice Awards. Situated in the magnificent Himalayas, Wildflower Hall is set amidst evergreen forest and presents a picture of breathtaking natural beauty. The resort stands handsomely amidst acres of cedar and pine trees, bearing testimony to its rich colonial heritage.

23 Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas Enjoy stunning views of the majestic Himalayas as you savour the finest in international and Indian cuisine.

24 Places of interest Christ Church The church on the Ridge by the Mall is the second oldest in North India. Constructed in the Neo-Gothic style, it boasts one of the finer pipe-organs in India and its fine stained glass windows were designed by Rudyard Kipling s father; Lockwood Kipling. Himachal State Museum The Museum exhibits a rich display of the state s cultural, artistic and archaeological heritage. The museum is located on a hillock adjacent to the Viceregal Lodge. Jakhoo Hill This is Shimla s highest point at 2,400 meters. It offers a panoramic view of the town, hills, and mountain ranges. The peak has a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman and co-incidentally, the surroundings of the temple are ruled by a large troupe of monkeys. The Mall The Mall has always been a place to be seen at, for local Shimla residents. It has offered great shopping sprees to visitors since the 1800 s. The unique feature of vehicular traffic being forbidden on the mall has only added to its appeal. The Gaiety theatre, the Town Hall, St. Michael s Cathedral and the General Post Office are good examples of colonial architecture on the Mall. Viceregal Lodge The former residence of the Viceroy of India, this fine example of Scottish Baronial architecture was completed in 1888 A.D. It s grey stone masonry, tiled pitch roof, interiors with elaborately carved Burma teak and expansive gardens speak of the glory of a bygone era. This building also played an important part during the partition of India and presently it houses The Indian Institute Of Advanced Studies. Naldehra Naldhera is a forty-five minute drive from the hotel. The Viceroy, Lord Curzon, was so enchanted by this spot that he gave his daughter Naldehra as her middle name. He also created Indian s first nine-hole golf course at this site. Golfing is available between March and December.

25 North Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas The Oberoi Rajvilās, Jaipur The Oberoi Amarvilās, Agra West The Oberoi Udaivilās, Udaipur The Oberoi Vanyavilās, Ranthambhore East The Oberoi, Mumbai Cochin, Kerala City of Backwaters South

26 Kerala The Backwaters Kerala, commonly known as God s own country is one of India s most enchanting destinations. Its picturesque backwaters are a unique feature. They meander through a series of scenic canals and lakes.

27 Motor Vessel Vrinda takes you on a journey through these tranquil waterways. Enjoy beautiful scenery in an atmosphere of luxury and comfort. Motor Vessel Vrinda has elegant interiors and offers excellent facilities.

28 The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda, Backwater Cruiser, Kerala Witness the magical view of the sunset.

29 Excursion highlights Half-statue of Lord Buddha; Centuries old Church and Hindu temple; Snake boat yard, housing the traditional long boats used for races; Ride on a traditional rice boat. A qualified guide will be on board to accompany the guests on all excursions.

30 Places of interest Bolghatty Palace Built by the Dutch in 1744 A.D., this palace is on an island, off Cochin in the ocean. The building was once a Governor s palace, for the Dutch and later the home of the British Governors. The evening boat cruise will take one all around the island. The palace is two-storied and contains well-decorated bed chambers and a huge lounge where historical portraits are displayed. Jewish Synagogue The Jewish Synagogue at Cochin is the oldest Synagogue in the commonwealth countries. It houses some of the scrolls of the Old Testament in the original Hebrew. Built in 1568 A.D., it also preserves the grants of privilege that were bequeathed to the Jewish community by the erstwhile Kochi rulers. There are nearly two hundred exquisite hand painted blue Chinese tiles, not one of which resembles any other. Mattancherry Palace Built in oriental style, the Mattancherry Palace was originally built by the Portuguese and presented to the king of Cochin in 1555 A.D. It was later taken over by the Dutch who improved it through extensions and repairs in 1663 A.D. One of the oldest buildings in Kerala, the Mattancherry Palace is a double-storied quadrangular building that is a portrait gallery of the kings of Cochin. In the centre of the building is the Coronation Hall where the Cochin Rajas held their coronations. Pathiranamal Island The little island of Pathiramanal on the Backwaters is a favorite haunt of hundreds of rare migratory birds from different parts of the area. The green island thus forms an ideal place for a break in the journey while on a backwater cruise. St. Francis Church St Francis Church in Cochin is the oldest Europeanbuilt church in India. Built in 1503 A.D. by the Portuguese, it housed the remains of Vasco Da Gama, the famous explorer who was the first European to land on the shores of India. His remains were later removed to Lisbon.

31 ITINERARY 1 Delhi-Jaipur-Agra-Delhi (6 Days) Day 1: Delhi Arrive in New Delhi and transfer to The Oberoi. The hotel room is available for immediate check-in on arrival. Afternoon: Visit the walled city of Old Delhi, Guarded by the Red Fort (a World Heritage Site) built in Its narrow alleys are dotted with countless landmarks including India s largest mosque, the Jama Masjid and the legendary marketplace of Chandni Chowk that stocks everything from spices and perfumes, to jewellery and dress materials. Overnight at the hotel Day 2: Delhi - Jaipur Morning: Depart by road for Jaipur (approximately 4 hours drive). Afternoon: A tour of the City Palace, Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds and the fascinating observatory built by Raja Jai Singh in Evening: Experience the traditional Aarti (prayer) at the ancient Shiva Temple within the hotel followed by a rejuvenating spa therapy at the Oberoi Spa. Overnight at the hotel Jaipur Day 3: Jaipur Delhi Morning: Yoga session at the hotel. Afternoon: A visit to the Amber Fort. An elephant ride takes you up to the fort. Spend rest of the day shopping in the city for gem stones, silver jewellery and hand painted textiles. Evening: An insight into Rajasthani culture and its past by a historian. Overnight at the hotel Agra

32 ITINERARY 1 Delhi-Jaipur-Agra-Delhi Day 4: Jaipur - Agra Morning: Depart for Agra by road. Visit the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri enroute to Agra. On arrival in Agra, check in at The Oberoi Amarvilas. Afternoon: Visit Agra Fort (a World Heritage Site) and Itmad-ud-Daulah, regarded as an imminent precursor of the Taj Mahal. Evening: Get an insight into the legacies of the Mughal Empire by a historian. Overnight at the hotel Day 5: Agra Morning: Visit the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Evening: At leisure. Overnight at the hotel Day 6: Agra - Delhi Morning: Depart by road for Delhi. On arrival in Delhi, check in at The Oberoi. Evening: At leisure. Overnight at the hotel.

33 ITINERARY 2 Delhi-Udaipur-Jaipur-Delhi Day 1: Delhi Arrive in New Delhi and transfer to The Oberoi. The hotel room is available for immediate check-in on arrival. Afternoon: Visit the walled city of Old Delhi, Guarded by the Red Fort (a World Heritage Site) built in Its narrow alleys are dotted with countless landmarks including India s largest mosque, the Jama Masjid and the legendary marketplace of Chandni Chowk that stocks everything from spices and perfumes, to jewellery and dress materials. Overnight at the hotel Day 2: Delhi - Udaipur Morning: Spend the morning relaxing in your room or enjoy a massage at the Oberoi Spa. Afternoon: Depart by air for Udaipur (1 hour 35 minutes flight). On arrival in Udaipur, transfer to The Oberoi Udaivilas. Evening: Visit the Bada Mahal Wildlife Conservatory, a natural home to peacocks, wild boar and spotted deer, located adjacent to the hotel. Visit the 200 year old hunting lodge of the Maharanas of Udaipur and witness frescoes done in the Gotai style using lime and marble paste. Overnight at the hotel Udaipur Day 3: Udipur Delhi Morning: Yoga session at the hotel, followed by a tour of the city including a visit to the magnificent City Palace, the Museum and the grand 400 year old Jagdish Temple devoted to Lord Vishnu. Afternoon: Shopping excursion followed by an Ayurvedic massage at the Oberoi Spa. Evening: A candlelit dinner overlooking the Lake Pichola. Overnight at the hotel Agra

34 ITINERARY 2 Delhi-Udaipur-Jaipur-Delhi Day 4: Udaipur - Jaipur Morning: Depart by road for Jaipur (approximately 6 hours drive) The Oberoi Rajvilas. Evening: Relax at the hotel and take an insight into Rajasthani culture and its past by a historian. Overnight at the hotel Day 5: Jaipur Morning: Yoga session at the hotel followed by a tour of the City Palace, Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds and the fascinating observatory built by Raja Jai Singh in Afternoon: A visit to the Amber Fort. An elephant ride takes you up to the fort. Evening: Spend the day shopping in the city for gem stones, silver jewellery and hand painted textiles. Overnight at the hotel Day 6: Jaipur - Delhi Morning: Depart for Delhi by air (approximately 50 minutes flight) Arrive in New Delhi and transfer to The Oberoi. The hotel room is available for immediate check-in on arrival. Choice of sightseeing or shopping. Next morning: Transfer to the airport for your onward destination.

35 ITINERARY 3 Mumbai-Jaipur-Udaipur-Mumbai Day 1: Mumbai Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to The Oberoi. The hotel room is available for immediate check-in on arrival. Overnight at the hotel Day 2: Mumbai - Udaipur Morning: Spend the morning taking a stroll on the beautiful marine drive and Gateway of India. Afternoon: Depart by air for Udaipur (1 hour 30 minutes flight). On arrival in Udaipur, transfer to The Oberoi Udaivilas. Evening: Visit the Bada Mahal Wildlife Conservatory, a natural home to peacocks, wild boar and spotted deer, located adjacent to the hotel. Visit the 200 year old hunting lodge of the Maharanas of Udaipur and witness frescoes done in the Gotai style using lime and marble paste. Overnight at the hotel Udaipur Day 3: Udaipur Jaipur Mumbai Morning: Yoga session at the hotel, followed by a tour of the city including a visit to the magnificent City Palace, the Museum and the grand 400 year old Jagdish Temple devoted to Lord Vishnu. Afternoon: Shopping excursion followed by an Ayurvedic massage at the Oberoi Spa. Evening: A candlelit dinner overlooking the Lake Pichola. Overnight at the hotel

36 ITINERARY 3 Mumbai-Jaipur-Udaipur-Mumbai Day 4: Udaipur - Jaipur Morning: Depart by road for Jaipur (approximately 6 hours drive) The Oberoi Rajvilas. Evening: Relax at the hotel and take an insight into Rajasthani culture and its past by a historian. Overnight at the hotel Day 5: Jaipur Morning: Yoga session at the hotel followed by a tour of the City Palace, Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds and the fascinating observatory built by Raja Jai Singh in Afternoon: A visit to the Amber Fort. An elephant ride takes you up to the fort. Evening: Spend the day shopping in the city for gem stones, silver jewellery and hand painted textiles. Overnight at the hotel Day 6: Jaipur - Mumbai Morning: Depart for Mumbai by air (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes flight) Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to The Oberoi. The hotel room is available for immediate check-in on arrival. Choice of sightseeing or shopping. Next morning: Transfer to the airport for your onward destination.

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