Proposed itinerary prepared for Mr & Mrs Foster and Mr & Mrs Turner by Nick Coy 194 Kensington High Street, London W8 7RG 020 7938 3444 Page 2 Page 8 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Detailed itinerary Accommodation summary What s Included in the Price? What happens next? Indian Subcontinent map Booking Reference No PAA0DF-IN01 Page 1
Detailed Itinerary Day 1 Friday 31 st March Welcome to India! Upon arrival in Delhi you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Please note standard check-in time at the hotel is 12:00. Delhi, the capital of modern India, is many people s introduction to the world s largest democracy. Experience the contrast between the grand colonial architecture of New Delhi and the narrow, hectic streets of the old city. Dine on fabulous Indian food in traditional establishments or in the growing range of cutting-edge restaurants and bars that form modern Delhi s nightlife. The city is by turn ancient, cosmopolitan, sophisticated and confusing but always fascinating. Overnight The Imperial (Imperial Room) Today s meal inclusions None Day 2 Saturday 1 st April Today you will embark on a private full day sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi. The sightseeing includes visits to the imposing Red Fort, Jama Masjid - the country s largest mosque, moving Raj Ghat the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi, welcoming Gurudwara Bangla Sahib Delhi's largest Sikh temple, Humayun s Tomb set in wonderful gardens and towering Qutub Minar a 72 metre high tower built in 1199 AD. In addition enjoy a rickshaw ride through the colourful bazaars and narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk (Silver Street), a drive past India Gate and a stop outside Rashtrapati Bhawan - the official residence of the President of India. Overnight The Imperial (Imperial Room) Day 3 Sunday 2 nd April This morning leave bustling Delhi for the drive to Agra (220km/approx. 4 hrs). Upon arrival you ll check in to your hotel. Home to one of the most beautiful and iconic buildings in the world, visits to Agra are dominated by the magical Taj Mahal, symbol of one man s devotion to the woman he loved and lost. The experience of being there is magical and it truly is one of those places that lives up to the hype. Photographs simply cannot do this stunning architectural beauty any real justice. As well as the Taj Mahal the city is home to the impressive Agra Fort where you can enjoy views back to the Taj and over the Yamuna River. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure (car & driver at your disposal). Overnight The Oberoi Amarvilas (Premier Room) Page 2
Day 4 Monday 3 rd April Today you will embark on a full day sightseeing tour of Agra. This includes a visit to the majestic Taj Mahal and also to impressive Agra Fort. This massive red sandstone fort is set on the banks of the Yamuna River and was built almost 500 years ago. Later visit Sikandra the red sandstone mausoleum of the Mughal emperor Akbar and finish your tour at Itimad-ud-daulah. This exquisitely decorated tomb is famed for its finely carved marble lattice screens. It is also nick-named the Baby Taj, for its striking resemblance to the Taj Mahal. Overnight The Oberoi Amarvilas (Premier Room) Day 5 Tuesday 4 th April This morning rise early to visit the Taj Mahal once again. This early start is well worth it as sunrise visits tend to attract fewer crowds and whilst occasionally the monument may be shrouded in early morning mist, this can add to the magic. Later this morning, drive to Ranthambore National Park (280km/approx. 6 hrs), visiting Fatehpur Sikri en route. Fatehpur Sikri is the deserted ancient capital of Emperor Akbar, approximately 35km outside Agra. Built in the 16th century, the magnificent city was abandoned just 12 years later due to a scarcity of water. The entire city of red sandstone palaces and temples is virtually intact and is home to one of the world s most magnificent gateways, the 54m high Buland Darwaza, constructed to commemorate Akbar s victory in Gujarat. After visiting Fatehpur Sikri, continue your drive to Ranthambore. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure (car & driver at your disposal). Covering over 300,000 acres of dry deciduous bush land, Ranthambore National Park is the best known and most accessible of India s tiger reserves. A former maharaja s hunting ground, the park is renowned for its scenic landscapes. Aside from the majestic, but elusive tiger, the park is home to large numbers of marsh crocodiles, sambar deer and varied birdlife. Game drives, in government vehicles accompanied by forest rangers, operate twice daily along set routes and while tiger sightings can never be guaranteed there is a healthy population in the park. Overnight The Oberoi Vanyavilas (Luxury Tent) Page 3
Day 6 Wednesday 5 th April Morning and afternoon shared game drives in Ranthambore National Park. Overnight The Oberoi Vanyavilas (Luxury Tent) Day 7 Thursday 6 th April Enjoy a final morning shared game drive in Ranthambore National Park before heading to Jaipur (195km /approx. 3hrs 30 mins). Check in to your hotel and the rest of the afternoon is at leisure (car & driver at your disposal). Jaipur, known as The Pink City, is home to a treasure trove of historic sites dating back to the 18th century, including the impressive Amber Fort, located 11km from the city. Aside from its captivating historical attractions, this colourful and chaotic city also offers great shopping; formerly the world s gemstone capital, Jaipur is known for its spectacular jewellery and its many handicrafts. Overnight The Oberoi Ravilas (Premier Room) Day 8 Friday 7 th April Today enjoy a full day sightseeing tour of Jaipur. Start by driving up to Amber Fort, stunningly situated on a hill side, overlooking a lake. Amber was the ancient capital of Jaipur state and the imposing fort is a superb example of Rajput architecture. After exploring the fort, head back into the centre of town for a stop outside the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), with its famous facade of pink windows and filigree screens followed by a visit to the City Palace and Museum, still the home of the former Jaipur royal family, which houses an extensive collection of art and old weapons. Finish the tour by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jantar Mantar. Built in 1728, this Royal Observatory was constructed for the observation of astronomical positions of the stars and planets. Overnight The Oberoi Ravilas (Premier Room) Page 4
Day 9 Saturday 8 th April After breakfast, drive to Delhi (260 kms/approx. 5 hours). Upon arrival you ll be check into your hotel. Delhi, the fascinating capital of modern India, is by turn ancient, cosmopolitan, sophisticated and confusing but always interesting. Once you have got your bearings it is easy and rewarding to explore. Enjoy the contrast between the colonial architecture of New Delhi and the much more ancient buildings that make up the narrow streets of Old Delhi. Later dine on top-notch Indian food and enjoy the new wave of cutting edge restaurants and bars that form Delhi s nightlife. Delhi is a wonderful mix of culture and a modern, thriving metropolis that is essential on a visit to India. Overnight The Oberoi Gurgaon (Deluxe Room) Day 10 Sunday 9 th April Transfer to Delhi airport in time to board your flight AI 281 for Colombo at 1230 hrs. Page 5
What is Bespoke Touring in India? The discerning traveller appreciates following their own bespoke itinerary delivered to take in what interests them most, at their pace, leaving them free of uncertainties and the pitfalls which can beset them when travelling on their own. We have, through many years of experience, identified who delivers the best possible bespoke tours on the ground which is why we are proud partners of the multi-award winning Trans India, Trailfinders owner operated partner in the Indian subcontinent since 2008. On arrival you will be met by our professional English speaking representatives who will assist you on arrival to ensure a smooth trouble free start to your holiday. Our representatives are skilled at helping you with many of the details that get taken for granted, such as checking into hotels, suggesting places to eat and shop or how to make the most of any free time. They will also be on hand to provide assistance at railway stations, and offer a 24 hour emergency telephone line ensuring you are not left wanting at any stage of your holiday. The vehicles we use to transfer you from airport to hotel and throughout your tour are all air-conditioned, well maintained private vehicles driven by professionally trained drivers. The English speaking representatives will escort you on arrival to ensure a smooth check in at your first hotel, and where detailed, your car and driver will be at your disposal for local journeys you may require. Where we have appointed the services of a guide for your sightseeing you can be assured they are professional and fully licensed, used to working on a private basis and with a thorough understanding of the wishes of our clients. It s not easy working out how much to pay to enter sites, when it s appropriate to take photographs or when to take your shoes off to enter a temple. Your guide will be there to help you understand and appreciate the culture, the way of life and the rich history running through the veins of the region. Many clients tell us how appreciative they were having their own guide having seen tour groups being herded around sites, struggling to keep up and hear the commentary. If you would like to include more sightseeing than is detailed on your itinerary, please ask for additional options. Whilst we have carefully planned your time in advance, we appreciate that once on the ground you may wish to vary things. Within reason, if you need some flexibility with the timings, perhaps to take a rest or stay longer somewhere that is of particular interest your local representative and driver will make every effort to accommodate your needs. You could not put yourself in better hands. Page 6
Accommodation in India & Nepal The standards of accommodation can vary widely in India and Nepal but here are some guidelines as to what you can expect. We hope the information below will help you select the style of accommodation that suits you. Your Trailfinders consultant will also be more than happy to discuss your accommodation choices in each destination. However it is always worth remembering you will be visiting a developing nation so things we take for granted in the West like hot water and electricity can be less reliable. Generally the accommodation standards do vary quite considerably within one itinerary because many destinations have a very limited selection of accommodation. In some places clients choose to visit a destination despite the accommodation and not because of it! In larger cities and popular tourist centres the hotels we offer are fully modernised with facilities of an international standard. There is less choice in the smaller cities and major towns but the hotels we feature will be the best available and will generally have good facilities. In the desert cities of Rajasthan, parts of Southern India, game parks and the hill stations accommodation standards can be even more varied and often very basic. Many hotels we use in these regions are privately owned converted palaces or houses, or local homestays. When staying in basic accommodation you should be aware that plumbing and hot water may be erratic, the facilities may not be of resort standard, and service, although friendly, may not be consistent. However this is all part of the experience when travelling in this fascinating part of the world. With an open mind and an adventurous spirit you are sure to have a rewarding and memorable travel experience! Heritage Hotels are old converted forts, palaces and mansions. They usually enjoy spectacular locations and fascinating histories, and being privately owned they retain much of their original ambiance and charm. Each hotel is unique which does mean that room size, view and aspect can vary enormously. Service can sometimes be slow, facilities basic and due to their age air conditioning and heating might well not exist. However Heritage hotels are still very popular since many people feel that any shortcomings in facilities and service are compensated by their atmosphere and charm. Please note that Heritage Hotels are usually historical landmark properties which may mean they are not suitable for the less mobile. Homestays are the equivalent of a B&B and are a unique opportunity to experience an insight into the culture, traditions, history and everyday life of an Indian family. Jungle Lodges accommodation can range from game lodges, tented camps or small hotels. Although the accommodation we offer in the game parks have private facilities they can be basic. Please refer to the hotel descriptions for more details. Houseboats Cruising the Backwaters on one of Kerala s Houseboats allows you to experience the full beauty and tranquility of the state's inland waterways. An overnight stay on one of these traditional converted rice barges is often considered a highlight of a tour of southern India. Each houseboat is a little different but all will have a covered dining/seating area, a small outside deck and simply furnished en suite bedrooms. It should be accepted that the accommodation is basic and as air-conditioning is usually only available in the bedrooms at night, mosquito repellent is recommended if sitting outside in the evenings. All meals are cooked on board and whilst none of the vessels have an alcohol licence, guests are welcome to bring along their own alcohol. Houseboats are always moored for the night at dusk and the crew of three sleep on board. Please refer to the individual descriptions of your hotels for more details and if you would like to discuss the accommodation options further to help you decide which type of accommodation is right for you please contact your Trailfinders travel consultant. Page 7
Details of Your Accommodation The Imperial (5+*) Delhi The Imperial is a true Delhi landmark its grand avenue of 24 king palms and classic white façade creates a striking image in the heart of the city. The hotel features a pool, a fitness centre as well as a fantastic spa and the central location is perfect for reaching Delhi s attractions and shopping districts. The 9 superb restaurants and bars, including award-winning The Spice Route, provide a fabulous choice of gourmet dining options. The smart rooms feature period décor with modern touches. Imperial Room The Oberoi Amarvilas (5+*) Agra This hotel is the definitive way to see the Taj Mahal in style - not least because of the stunning views of the monument itself from the public areas and the gorgeous rooms. The Oberoi Amarvilas is the perfect place to relax as well, with a beautiful pool which is surrounded by sun decks and set amidst spectacular gardens plus there is a nice spa. Two restaurants offer a range of international cuisine and speciality Indian dishes. Premier Rooms are lovely, with all the facilities you could want, but it is definitely worth upgrading to a Premier Room With Balcony so you can sit outside and admire the view. The Oberoi Amarvilas is the ultimate retreat situated in an unbeatable location for the Taj Mahal. Page 8
The Oberoi Vanyavilas (5+*) Ranthambore For those in search of the elusive tiger, Ranthambore National Park is one of the major destinations, and The Oberoi Vanyavilas is the place from which to see it in style. The resort is a tented camp at the edge of the reserve set amidst spectacular scenery and close to the jungle. The lodge offers good facilities including a pool, spa and state of the art gym, and the restaurant serves western, Thai and Indian cuisine using fresh ingredients from the kitchen garden. The Luxury Tents have all modern comforts and are beautifully furnished. The Oberoi Rajvilas (5+*) Jaipur The Oberoi Rajvilas is a calm retreat from the energy and pace of modern India. The hotel is designed in the style of a traditional Indian Palace set in gorgeous tropical gardens, only a short distance from the Amber Fort and about 25 minutes drive from Jaipur city s attractions. Facilities include a superb spa, fully equipped gym and outdoor pool. Dining is sure to be a highlight and there is a pleasant colonial bar. Premier Rooms have four poster beds and antique furnishings but for a treat upgrade to a Luxury Tent. These are as far away from camping as it s possible to get and are simply stunning! Page 9
The Oberoi, Gurgaon (5*) Delhi Located in the suburb of Gurgaon, 20 miles from central Delhi and just a 15 minute drive from the airport, this fabulously chic property combines contemporary design with Oberoi s legendary hospitality and service. The 9 acre site boasts superb facilities includes a huge pool (larger than Olympic size!), a stylish spa and a fitness centre. The 4 bars and restaurants offer a range of gourmet options spanning Indian, Asian and continental cuisine. The spacious, airy rooms and suites are furnished in an elegant, modern style and all feature large picture windows with views over the lush gardens, the pool or the surrounding modern cityscape. Page 10
What s Included in the Price? Meet and greet by our award winning, English speaking local representatives on arrival into the country. Transportation on a private basis using a comfortable, well maintained air conditioned vehicle with professionally trained driver. Fully guided sightseeing with professional, licensed, English speaking local guides when detailed on your itinerary. Where using the services of our licenced guides all entrance fees are included. Your accommodation in two double rooms with any meal inclusions as specified on the itinerary. When travelling in a group of four or more people we use the air conditioned Tempo Traveller minibus. Your vehicle will have space for one suitcase and one hand bag per person. If you expect to travel with more luggage than this please contact your Travel Consultant. Applicable local government taxes. What s Excluded? Unless shown on your itinerary all meals, snacks and drinks. Optional hotel expenses such as local and international telephone calls, internet access and laundry. Charges for using cameras and video cameras at monuments. Gratuities at your discretion for local guides, drivers, bellboys, waiters etc (details of suggested rates for gratuities is provided in our Holiday Essentials document that accompanies your confirmed itinerary). Local airport taxes. We recommend that you check in advance with your guide if there is a local departure tax to pay and ensure you have made provision for this prior to arrival at check in. Any visas as indicated in the visa advice section of your main itinerary. The Trailfinders Visa Service can help you obtain your visa and as a valued client you will be eligible for a discounted rate. Please call 020 7368 1504 (UK) or 01 881 4949 (Ireland). Page 11
What happens next? If you re happy with the proposed arrangements for your Bespoke tour, the next step is for us to go ahead with checking the availability and making the reservations for your trip. In order for us to proceed you will need to commit with the deposit as outlined on your main itinerary. If any of the arrangements are not available for the dates requested we will explore the alternatives and contact you to discuss these prior to our confirming them. Should we not be able to make suitable alternative arrangements we will refund your deposit. If you are not happy with the proposed arrangements please give us a call to discuss alternative suggestions. A change to the suggested hotels or sightseeing can often bring the tour closer to a proposed budget or you may be looking to upgrade elements of accommodation or add additional sightseeing. If you wish to further discuss your proposed itinerary or to proceed with the booking, please call us on 020 7938 3444. Page 12
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