Rajasthan India s Golden Triangle 2018 1
Welcome 2 Itinerary Day 2: Arrival Day Arrival in Delhi (1 night). We are transferred to our accommodation for an introductory briefing and time to relax. In the evening there will be an optional visit to Qutub Minar. Accommodation: Pullman Hotel (1 night), M.G. Road, Sector 26, Delhi-Gurgaon Border, Gurgaon 122002, Delhi NCR. Tel + 91 124 499 2000, h6544@accor.com (Meals included: lunch, Day 3: The Taj Mahal and Agra Experience India s cultural gems and a vast variety of landscapes from the colourful hubbub of Jaipur s city streets to the solitude of the vast Thar Desert, and the lush green hill station of charming Mount Abu. The expertise of our local leader will ensure you experience the best of this legendary kingdom, seeking out the silent corners of the Taj Mahal and the best places to spot wildlife in the tiger reserve of Rathambore. ACCOMMODATION From 5-star boutique-style hotels, to the charm of our heritage hotels and palaces in Jaipur, Jodhpur, Mount Abu, and Udaipur, your accommodation will be one of many highlights on your holiday. We spend two nights in a peaceful jungle resort, where accommodation is simple but comfortable, and in an idyllic location. Day 1: Departure from the UK Our journey begins as we travel south to Agra (3.5 hrs) for a walking tour (2 miles/3km) of its fort, once home to the Mughal emperors who ruled most of the Indian subcontinent and large parts of Central Asia. Their empire accounted for one quarter of the world s GDP at the time, and encompassed a quarter of the world s population. We continue to the internationally renowned monument of the Taj Mahal, where we experience the unforgettable sight of the Taj Mahal at sunset. Thought by many to be the most beautiful building in the world, the Taj Mahal welcomes over 3 million visitors each year. This architectural wonder was created by the 17 th century Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, in memory of his late wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Sadly, Shah Jahan spent his last days gazing at the Taj Mahal through a little window, imprisoned in Agra fort by his son, Aurangzeb. We 2
take our time to explore this stunning sight, and to get some fabulous photos of this magnificent monument at sunset. Please note that we may visit the Taj first and then the fort, depending on weather conditions. Accommodation: Jaypee Palace Hotel, Agra (1 night) Tel +91 562 233 0800, reservations.jpa@jaypeehotels.com Holiday Itinerary Day 4: Keoladeo Ghana National Park and to Ranthambore We depart early morning for our journey to Bharatpur and our visit to one of the world s best places for bird watching Keoladeo Ghana National Park. An experienced bird watcher will guide us on a walk around the sanctuary, helping us to spot some of the park s wildlife. The walk is only a short one (2½ miles/4km), but we take plenty of time to ensure that we see the best of the park s birdlife. After lunch, we continue to the world famous tiger sanctuary of Ranthambore, staying nearby. Our journey is by train, and will take approx 2½ hours. Day 5: Rathambore Safaris Today we enjoy two vehicle safaris into Ranthambore, one of Rajasthan s largest national parks, and one of the world s most famous tiger sanctuaries. The park was once the hunting ground of the Maharajas of Jaipur, but is now just as popular, but with wildlife enthusiasts, as it s one of the best places in India to see tigers in the wild. Watch out too, for leopards, hyena, deer, chital, langurs, macaques, wild boar and much more. Day 6: To Jaipur and Amer Fort This morning we will drive to Jaipur (4hrs). After lunch and time to check into our hotel, we continue to Amer where we enjoy a walking tour (1.5 miles/2.5km) of its 400 year old impressive Amer fort and Jaigarh fort, built to protect Amer. The walks around the site will take approx 3½ hours, including a relatively steep 1km ascent to Jaigarh fort. Accommodation: Shahpura House, Jaipur (1 night) Tel + 91 141 408 9100, reservation@shahpurahouse.com Accommodation: Tree House Resort (2 nights) Tel +91 9871 034 969, bharat@treehouseranthambore.com 3
Day 7: Jodhpur Before leaving Jaipur, we take a walking tour of the city sights. The tour covers a short distance of approx 2½ miles/4km. This is an introduction to a very typical Indian city centre a sprawling, chaotic market dating back centuries, and includes visits to the Jaipur city palace, the Jantar Mantar (an astronomical observatory built in the early 18th century) and the Hawa Mahal. After lunch, we continue our journey by train to Jodhpur. Accommodation: ITC Jodhpur (2 nights) Tel + 91 291 515 8500 www.itchotels.in DAY 8: MEHRANGARH FORT & THE Day 8: Mehrangarh Fort & the Thar Desert THAR DESERT We will start the day with a walk in the Rao Jodha rock park (2.5 miles/4km, 2hrs), accompanied by a naturalist. Our walk ends in the superb setting of the Mehrangarh fort, with its soaring bastions and elaborately carved windows. This is one of the best preserved forts in India. This afternoon we will drive out to the small desert town of Osiyan. Osiyan is a little outpost in the desert, and we can explore a bit of rural Rajasthan desert dunes, interspersed with green fields. Our walk is approx 1.5 miles/2.5km (2hrs). We return to Osiyan where we have time to wander around the market and temple before dinner. Day 9: To Mount Abu 9: TO MOUNT ABU An early morning start as we head for the hills, and the verdant slopes of Mount Abu. The contrast between the desert scenes of yesterday and the green scenes today, is that of two different worlds, and very much part of Rajasthan s charm. The hill station of Mount Abu has long been the escape for many, a haven from the heat of the desert plains. At an altitude of 1,200m, the area s cooler climes, and a landscape of rivers, lakes and waterfalls, make this the perfect place to explore on foot. Later this afternoon, we will hike along the Tiger Path - the original route up Mount Abu. This is an enjoyable easy walk (2.5 miles/4km, 2.5hrs) along quiet trails which offer beautiful views of the Aravallis. Accommodation: Bikaner House, Mount Abu (2 nights) Tel + 91 2974 235 494, bikhousemountabu@gmail.com Day 10: Around Mount Abu Today we re treated to a walk in the hills that surround Mount Abu. We are guided by a local naturalist to ensure that we see the very best of the area. The walk includes some short sections of scrambling (5 miles/8km), uneven tracks, and will be approximately 4-5 hrs. 4
We will be walking inside the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, which encompasses an area of over 328 sq km. Our walk will showcase the best parts of the Aravalli Ranges. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna and we may even be lucky enough to spot a sloth bear. Our walk will end at the fabulous Dilwara temples. These temples were built by the Jains in the 11th and 14th centuries, and the marble carvings are spectacular. Please note that photography is not allowed at the temples, and you will need to deposit your shoes and any leather items at security outside the temples. Day 11: To Udaipur A fitting finale as we journey to our final destination, the City of Lakes, beautiful Udaipur. Surrounded by the Aravali hills, this charming city is recognisable to many as the setting of the lake palace in the James Bond film, Octopussy. After checking into our accommodation, with time to relax, we take a walking tour to explore the city. We take in many of the city s famous sites, including the Udaipur City Palace. Day 12: Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary SANCTUARY We venture off the beaten track, to Jaisamand wildlife sanctuary, approx 50 km from Udaipur. The tropical dry forest here is rich in bird life and is also home to flying squirrel, deer, boar, pangolin, hyena and wild bear. The lake here, Jaisamand Lake, was created in the 17th century and is the second biggest manmade lake in the world. Our walks here are on mostly flat, though uneven, terrain. We will take about 4 hours (3.7 miles/ 6km), with lots of time searching for wildlife. We will be led on the walks by a local naturalist, who is also Deputy Conservator of Forests for the Rajasthan government. From Jaisamand, we head to Bagh dhada, stopping at the lovely Jagat temple en route, where we will have an opportunity to stretch our legs again on a short walk (2½ miles/4km) before heading back to Udaipur for our final night s celebrations. Day 13: A group transfer takes us to the airport for our return flight home, via Delhi, to the UK. (Meals included: breakfast) If you have a problem Accommodation: Shikarbadi Resort Udaipur (2 nights) Tel + 91 294 258 3201 www.hrhhotels.com 5
Accommodation From the elegant hotel in Agra, to the luxury resort at Ranthambore and the heritage hotel at the hill station on Mt Abu, our selection of 4 5 star hotels will surely be one of the highlights of your holiday. On the first night of our trip we stay at the Pullan New Delhi Aerocity Hotel which is a large hotel located in close proximity to the airport. www.jaypeehotels.com Located within Ranthambore National Park Anuraga Palace Hotel is a 5-star resort hotel and will be our base for 2 nights. Offering views of the Aravallis range each room overlooks the garden and has its own style bringing alive the flora and fauna of the region. The hotel has a pool and spa facilities. www.pullmanhotels.com We then travel to Agra where we stay 1 night at the Jaypee Palace Hotel. Located in the main tourist distict this hotel provides great access to the major attraction of the Taj Mahal. An exquisite blend of red sandstone and marble set within landscaped gardens, this hotel offers a mix of Mughal and contemporary architecture with modern amenities such as a pool and spa. www.treehousehotels.in On to the capital Jaipur where we stay 1 night at Shahpura House. A heritage hotel once residence of former rulers, the house has been converted into a hotel by Maharaj Surendra Singh ji. It has however remained a family home so members of the former ruling family welcome you as their honoured guest. Shahpura House is a curious mixture of old and new featuring an outdoor swimming pool. 6
focus on the Rajasthani canopy over the bed. www.shahpura.com Situated on the edge of the Thar desert, the ITC Welcom Hotel is an oasis of luxury offering relaxation against the backdrop of the arid landscape. We ll stay here for 2 nights enjoying spacious bedrooms which are elegantly appointed. The hotel has a full range of wellness and spa facilities including a pool. www.palacehotelbikanerhouse.com For our last couple of nights we will stay at Shikarbadi Resort, a former royal hunting lodge, now a peaceful haven with breathtaking views over the Aravalli hills. It has its own deer park where spotted deer, wild boar, and monkeys can be seen. All rooms face the deer park and the interiors of the rooms offer glimpses of life gone by. There is an outdoor pool. www.itchotels.in Mount Abu is a hill station offering a green and cool environment, a total contrast to the arid desert of the past 2 days. Bikaner Palace Hotel will be our base for the next 2 nights and features traditional Rajasthani architecture, large open courtyards, extensive grounds and an outdoor pool. Each bedroom has a contemporary design with a central www.hrhhotels.com 7
Before your holiday We hope you find this information comprehensive if not please visit our website for more details or contact us. All details correct at time of writing (November 2017). Passport and visa requirements are subject to change; please check with your consulate before you travel. We would advise that you check your government s travel advisory before travelling. For UK travellers, please check www.fco.gov.uk In all instances during your holiday, your first point of contact should be your HF Holidays leader or local leader. If for any reason this is not possible, HF Holidays emergency contact details are as follows: Mon - Fri 9am - 7pm Tel +44 (0)345 470 7558 or +44(0)20 8732 1250 ( from overseas) Fri - Mon 7pm - 9am Tel +44 (0)7918 737777 Airport parking & accommodation If you require airport parking or accommodation before your flight, we recommend our partner Holiday Extras. Call 0871 360 2750 and quote HX031 or book online at www.holidayextras.co.uk/hfholidays Kit List Please try to keep luggage to a minimum as you will need to carry it yourself at airports and between your transport and your hotel. Walking boots (worn in) with good ankle support and spare bootlaces Walking socks Walking sandals Lightweight fleece Lightweight waterproof trousers and jacket Shorts Long trousers and long-sleeved light coloured shirts with collars to protect from the sun your clothing should ideally be pretreated with insect repellent and in-built sun protection (available from specialist clothing stores such as Rohan, Cotswold Outdoor) Warm fleece, hat and gloves Head torch Sun hat Scarf/buff Comfortable clothes and shoes for evenings and sightseeing Sun protection sunglasses, high factor sunscreen and lip protection Water bottle at least 2 litre capacity Lightweight survival bag Small/medium rucksack (30 litre) a bin liner will keep contents dry if it rains Soap and hand sanitizer gel Insect repellent Universal adaptor plug Universal sink plug Personal first aid kit including: personal medication, tissues, plasters, blister kit, painkillers, 8
antiseptic wipes, Imodium, rehydration sachets Passport (and copies); booking confirmation; insurance cover note; HF Holidays registration form Optional: trekking poles, camera, umbrella, binoculars. Please ensure you have access to emergency funds should you need them; carrying a credit card is probably the most convenient method. Please note that your HF Holidays leader reserves the right to refuse to take any guest on a walk should they consider that a lack of suitable clothing/footwear may affect safety. Baggage allowance 1 piece checked-in luggage (max 23kg). Please check details of your airline s baggage allowance, as shown on your e-ticket. Remember to also check any connecting flights you may have booked. Passports & visas To enter India, a passport valid for at least 6 months and with at least two blank pages is required. British, Australian, Canadian and US citizens require an e-visa to enter India. This can be done online. Please visit the following website for further information: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvo a.html Current cost is $60 (nonrefundable) plus a 2.5% credit card charge. You will need to upload a photo and complete the application form online. Please remember to take a copy of the e-visa with you. You can apply for the e-visa minimum 4 days in advance of your travel date, with a window of up to 120 days. The e-visa should be emailed to you within 4 days. Other nationals should check with their nearest embassy or consulate for details of entry requirements. Travel insurance If arranging your own travel insurance, please ensure it is adequate for your specific itinerary. Health advice This is subject to change and we would highly recommend that you consult your doctor before travelling. For further information on country specific advice, visit www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or www.traveldoctor.co.uk Vaccinations are sometimes advised for diphtheria, hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus and polio. Dengue and malaria are both caused by mosquito bites and are prevalent in hot and humid conditions. There are occasional, seasonal outbreaks of dengue fever. Travelers should vigilantly protect themselves against mosquito bites. Please note: the use or possession of some common prescription or overthe-counter medicines is banned in some countries. If you will be carrying medication, please check with the country s embassy/ consulate prior to travel. As an extra precaution: 9
Keep your medication in its original packet Take a copy of your prescription too If possible, ask your chemist to write the name of your medication in the language of the country that you re visiting Dietary requirements Please contact us as far in advance as possible if you have any specific dietary requirements. We will do our best to accommodate you. If you require a specific meal on the flight, please let us know as soon as possible, and no later than 96 hours before travel. Travel tips for a comfortable flight We ve put together a few simple tips to help make your flight as comfortable as possible, ensuring you begin your holiday in tip-top shape. Drink plenty. Ask a member of the cabin crew if you are thirsty. Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee or carbonated drinks as these will dehydrate you. Instead, try to drink plenty of fruit juices or water Eat light. Avoid heavy meals and foods air expands at altitude and heavy meals will result in that bloated feeling Moisturise. Your skin, especially your lips and nostrils, may feel dry so moisturising creams may help. If you wear contact lenses, always carry your glasses with you, as your eyes may feel dryer than usual Stay loose. Wear loose fitting, comfortable shoes and clothes Flight socks are recommended to help prevent DVT on longhaul flights Lost/damaged luggage Move about. Change position and avoid crossing your legs. Immobility poses the greatest risk in the development of clotting disorders. Get out of your seat and walk around as regularly as possible to improve circulation No pills. Unless advised by your doctor, do not take sleeping tablets on the flight; this will reduce your mobility and make you feel sluggish Protect your ears. If you experience discomfort due to the cabin pressure changes, suck a sweet, chew, or hold your nostrils and gently blow through your nose; this should equalise the pressure. If you still experience problems, speak to a member of the cabin crew If your bag or its contents are damaged or lost while in the airline s care, this should be reported to the baggage service agents at the airport. They will assess the damage and in some cases the airline may decide to settle your claim immediately. You will be given a reference to quote to your insurance company if settlement cannot be reached. In many cases baggage claims can only be accepted in writing. A baggage claim form must be obtained from the airport. HF Holidays with-flight guests For those travelling on our HF Holidays group flight, please proceed to the arrivals hall once you have passed through passport control, customs and baggage reclaim, when you arrive at 10
your destination. Your leader or local leader will assemble the group in the arrivals hall. Look out for the HF Holidays sign. Independent travellers If you are arriving ahead of the group, and are meeting them at the first hotel, please leave a message at the hotel reception for the HF Holidays leader or local leader, detailing your room number, and a mobile telephone number if possible. The leader will contact you once the group arrives. If you are arriving after the group, a message will be left for you at the hotel reception, welcoming you and giving details of the time and place to meet the group. If your flight arrives before the group flight and you would like to join the transfer to the first hotel, please contact our Abroad Administration team on (0)20 8732 1271. They will have a list of the relevant transfer costs. Safety on your holiday Once you have made your booking, you will receive a pre-holiday questionnaire where we ask for details of next of kin, and insurance details. We need to have this from you at least 4 weeks before travel. Please also inform us of any medical situation which may affect your enjoyment of the holiday Please listen to any safety instructions from the leader Keep group members in view, especially if weather or visibility is poor If you become separated from the group, please stay where you are, the leader will retrace their steps to find you Each leader carries a first aid kit but is not allowed to supply any medication including aspirin, paracetamol, antihistamines, and antiseptic cream. You may wish to bring these items with you In the unlikely event that your leader is incapacitated, please use any emergency kit in their rucksack and call emergency services on 911. Please then call our emergency number (see page 10) and let us know there is a problem. Tipping Tips have been included in your holiday price for key services such as local guides/ driver/restaurants. Any additional tips are at your own discretion. Climate Rajasthan has a tropical desert climate. Our tours operate in the months of the year when it is cooler and is officially classed as winter, so it can be quite cool at night, particularly in the hill town area of Mount Abu. Given that this is a desert state, rainfall is minimal, and it can be arid or subhumid. Local currency & money matters The Rupee (Rs) is the official currency for India. The import and export of local currency is prohibited. Sometimes smaller shops and stalls will not accept notes larger than Rs 500. It is best to carry some smaller notes with you too. In major cities, debit and credit cards are generally accepted, including American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa. However, 11
in smaller towns and villages, choice is generally narrowed to cash or MasterCard and Visa. Traveler s cheques are widely accepted and can be changed at banks and larger hotels. Currency can also be changed at banks, airports or authorised money changers. US Dollars and Pounds Sterling are the easiest currencies to exchange. Traveler s cheques are not Suggested reading and maps Rajasthan, Deli & Agra Lonely Planet Maps can be obtained in advance from The Mapshop www.themapshop.co.uk Electricity 230V/50Hz, 2 or 3 pin plugs Group size Maximum group size will be 10, plus local guide/s Time difference GMT/UTC +5.3 hours HF Holidays Ltd, Catalyst House, Centennial Court, Elstree, Borehamwood, WD6 3SY, UK 12