India - AiRep · Rath Yatra in Puri and the Hemis festival in Ladakh (both held in June or July),...

India

From the earliest days

of the Harappan

civilisation dating back

to the middle of the

4th millennium BC, the

Indian sub-continent

has been developing

and refining its own

distinct cultures and

philosophies. The

home of one of the

world’s oldest

civilisations and

several of the world’s

great religions, India

has always been subject to invasion: Aryans, Greeks, Scythians,

Parthians, Huns, Romans, Turks, Afghans, Dutch, Portuguese and finally

the British all passed this way, bringing ideas and influences which India

has absorbed and incorporated into its own way of life.

Geographically too, India is a land of kaleidoscopic diversity with the

country’s 2.6 million square kilometres harbour, an immense variety

of landscapes that range from the palm-edged beaches of the tropical

south to the eternal snow of the mighty Himalayas. In between, jungles

and forests, lush river valleys and barren deserts, busy modern cities

and quiet villages are yours to explore.

India Journeys through India

Food in India is wide ranging in taste and flavour. Being so diverse

geographically each region has its own cuisine and style of preparation.

Occupying this vast and varied country is an intriguing mixture of people

whose diversity of race, language, customs, traditions, cuisine, art and

religion brings colour to every aspect of life. With such a variety of people,

there is an equal variety of festivals. Amongst the most spectacular are

Rath Yatra in Puri and the Hemis festival in Ladakh (both held in June or

July), Pushkar’s camel fair in November and the nationwide celebration

of Diwali in October or November – but virtually every temple across the

Spice market

Thekkady

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24

India

country has its own and if you are fortunate enough to find your visit

coincides with one it may prove to be the highlight of your stay.

The main attractions of Northern India date from the Mughal period – the

forts, palaces, mosques, gardens and of course, the sublime Taj Mahal

are amongst the most magnificent buildings ever constructed. After

the vibrant atmosphere of Mumbai in the west, allow the palm-fringed

beaches of Goa to warm your spirit and relax your mind. And in the

languid south, amidst luxuriant tropical greenery, are vast sandy beaches,

enormous Hindu temples, superb rock carvings, ancient forts, cool hill

stations and Kerala’s quiet backwaters.

The well-travelled

author Mark Twain

remarked that ‘India

is the cradle of the

human race, the

birthplace of human

speech, the mother

of history, the

grandmother of

legend and great-

grandmother of

tradition. Our most

valuable and most

instructive materials

Kozhikode

in the history of man are treasured up in India’. His enthusiasm and

admiration for one of the world’s most diverse countries is still shared

by millions of tourists from the world over.

Sightseeing

The awe-inspiring Taj Mahal, the palaces of Rajasthan; ancient monuments

and temples; museums and art galleries; cave temples in Maharashtra; hill

stations; the backwaters and lakes of Kerala; magnificent beaches on the

Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal; jungles, rivers, bird watching and wildlife,

including the endangered tigers and elephants.

Accommodation

Luxury beach and spa resorts, city-centre hotels and romantic hideaways.

Shopping

What you can buy – Silks, pashminas, cotton, wool, carpets, clothes,

jewellery, handicrafts, leather goods, woodwork, brassware, tea, spices,

incense and Indian art.

Where you can buy – Department stores, shopping centres and bazaars.

Entertainment

Cinema, theatre, classical dances and music, puppetry, bars, nightclubs

and discothèques.

Sports and leisure

Spectator sports – Cricket, horseracing, polo, soccer, kushti (Indian

wrestling) and kabadi (a form of tag).

Active sports – Badminton, squash, trekking, golf, windsurfing, snorkelling,

scuba diving, canoeing and fishing.

Events

Diwali, the festival of lights (October/November); Pushkar Fair (November);

Holi, the festival of colour (February/March).

Ranthambore

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25

This tour is the ideal way to see historic northern India and its most

famous sights – Delhi, the ethereal beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra,

the deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri and the Pink City of Jaipur. Many

of the sites date back to the Mughal period and are absolutely

awe-inspiring.

Day 1: Delhi

Arrive at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport and transfer to your

hotel. An afternoon tour will introduce you to Old Delhi, including the

Red Fort, Raj Ghat (Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial), Jama Masjid mosque

and Chandni Chowk. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 2: Delhi

In the morning, visit New Delhi to see the government buildings, parks,

Humayun’s Tomb, Qutab Minar and India Gate. The remainder of the day

can be spent at leisure. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 3: Delhi – Agra (204

kilometres)

Depart for Agra. In the afternoon,

explore the city and the 17th century

marble wonder – Taj Mahal. Later,

visit Agra Fort, Yamuna River and

the local bazaar. Overnight in Agra.

Note: Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.

Day 4: Agra – Jaipur (224

kilometres)

Depart for Jaipur. En route visit

Fatehpur Sikri, Emperor Akbar’s

deserted capital, where Indian

styles combine with central Asian

and Persian influences to create

a unique architectural heritage.

Overnight in Jaipur.

Delhi • Agra • Jaipur • Delhi

• Old and New Delhi

• The legendary Taj Mahal

• Jaipur, the Pink City

• Ride an elephant to Amber Fort

India Tours

Day 5: Jaipur

In the morning, visit Amber Fort and climb the hill on elephant back. Tour

around Jaipur in the afternoon and see the Jantar Mantar (an 18th century

observatory) and the Hawa Mahal. Overnight in Jaipur.

Day 6: Jaipur – Delhi (252 kilometres)

After returning to Delhi check in to your hotel. The rest of the day is free

to shop for souvenirs or to relax.

Day 7: Delhi

Transfer to the airport for your return flight.

Total distance: 680 kilometres.

The Golden Triangle7 days/6 nights • Chauffeur-driven private car tour

Qutab Minar

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Bengaluru • Mysore • Coorg • Kabini • Wayanad • Calicut• Coorg – lush valleys of plantations and teak forests

• Kabini – India’s premier wildlife safari destination

• Wayanad – the green paradise nestled among the mountains

of Kerala

India Tours

Bengaluru

Kabini

Wayanad

Calicut

Kerala

Tamil Nadu

Karnataka

Coorg

By road

Mysore

Tour available as:• Chauffeur-drive – Including car, driver and pre-booked

accommodation.

This is the perfect tour to indulge in the best that India has to offer and to

experience the thrill of a wildlife safari. A chance to explore a wonderfully

diverse and natural environment while enjoying the comfort of luxury lodges.

Day 1: BengaluruArrive at Bengaluru International Airport and transfer to your hotel.

Overnight in Bengaluru.

Day 2: Bengaluru – Mysore (139 kilometres)Set off this morning after breakfast for Mysore. Once the capital of

the Wodeyar kingdom, this city is famous for its silks and sandalwood,

tree lined boulevards and its intriguing palace. Overnight in Mysore.

Day 3: Mysore – Coorg (139 Kilometres)Start your day with a half-day city tour of Mysore, including a visit to the

Maharaja’s Palace, built in 1911-12. The palace harmoniously synthesises

the Hindu and Saracen styles of architecture. Drive up to the 1,062 metres

high Chamindi Hill with its panoramic view of Mysore before proceeding

to Coorg. Overnight in Coorg.

Day 4: CoorgCoorg is situated 1,525 metres above sea level on the Western Ghats.

Surrounded by verdant valleys, imposing mountains and teak wood

forests, this is one

of the most beautiful

hill stations you can

visit. Enjoy a day

to soak up the

surroundings, take

a nature walk, go

bird watching, or

join a plantation

tour of the 300 acre

working coffee and

spice plantation.

Overnight in Coorg.

Deccan Trails9 days/8 nights • Chauffeur-driven private car tour

Day 5: Coorg – Kabini (120 Kilometres)From imposing mountains to the largest contiguous forest cover in this

part of the world, home to the Asiatic elephant, Kabini is in the heart

of Nagarhole National Park and home to the largest concentration

of elephants in India. Overnight in Kabini.

Day 6: KabiniEnjoy a full-day in Kabini where you can join a safari and look for elephants,

sambar, antelope and wild pigs, to name a few animals. In the afternoon

enjoy a Coracle boat ride on the river. Overnight in Kabini.

Day 7: Kabini – Wayanad (90 Kilometres)There are a selection of activities for you to choose from in Wayanad,

including visits to Pookot Lake, Kiutiva Island, Kuruva Dweep, Thirunelli

Temple or visit one of the many wildlife sanctuaries. Overnight in Wayanad.

Day 8: Wayanad – Calicut (98 Kilometres)Late in the afternoon transfer to Calicut. Overnight in Calicut.

Day 9: CalicutTransfer to the airport for your onward flight home.


Nagarhole National Park

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This tour is an ideal way to experience the fascinating contrasts that

Kerala has to offer – from tropical beaches and backwater villages to

spice gardens and plantations.

Day 1: Kochi

Arrive at Nedumbassery International Airport in Kochi and transfer to your

hotel. Spend the afternoon sightseeing in this historical city which reflects

an unusual blend of mediaeval Portugal, Dutch and English country life.

You visit the 16th century Mattancherry Palace and see the famous

Chinese fishing nets. Overnight in Kochi.

Day 2: Kochi – Alleppey (65 kilometres)

After breakfast, you drive to Alleppey, where you board a houseboat for

a unique experience of sailing through the narrow canals and channels

of Kerala’s picturesque backwaters. The cruise takes you through quaint

villages and bunded paddy fields giving you a glimpse of life along some

of the most beautiful and untouched areas of this region. Overnight

on the houseboat.

Day 3: Alleppey – Kumarakom (20 kilometres)

In the afternoon, you disembark and drive to Kumarakom. The rest of the

day is at leisure to enjoy the pristine beauty of the Vembanad Lake with

its varied species of both flora and fauna. Overnight in Kumarakom.

Day 4: Kumarakom

The full-day is at

leisure and you can

opt for a relaxing

Ayurvedic massage

at the hotel. With

a perfect backdrop

of nature, this is

an ideal way to

invigorate your mind

and body. Overnight

in Kumarakom.

Kochi • Alleppey • Kumarakom • Kovalam

• Historical Kochi

• Overnight on a houseboat in the backwaters

• Picturesque Kumarakom

• Beaches of Kovalam

India Tours

Day 5: Kumarakom – Kovalam (180 kilometres)

In the morning you drive to Kovalam, with its magnificent beaches

overlooking the Arabian Sea. An afternoon sightseeing tour of

Thiruvananthapuram city includes a visit to the temple of Parameshwara.

Overnight in Kovalam.

Day 6: Kovalam

Full-day is at leisure to relax on the beach or

perhaps to catch up with some last-minute

shopping before you transfer to the airport for

your onward flight.


Highlights of Kerala6 days/5 nights • Chauffeur-driven private car tour

Tour available as:

• Chauffeur-drive – Including car, driver and pre-booked

accommodation.

Why not extend your stay at one of the Thiruvananthapuram

resorts featured on the following pages.Houseboat

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This seven night journey offers you

an unparalleled experience that brings

the splendour of Rajasthan, the

romance of Agra and the great

Taj Mahal to life.

Day 1: DelhiThe journey of a lifetime begins at 4 pm.

Settle into your cabin as the train pulls

out into the night for a week long luxury

journey through Rajasthan.

Day 2: JaipurThis capital city of Rajasthan, popularly known as the Pink City, was

founded in 1727. Enjoy a tour of the city including Hawa Mahal, an

elephant ride to Amber Fort and the City Palace Museum.

Day 3: JaislamerFounded in 1,156 the sandstone fort is an imposing site. In the afternoon

take a camel ride through the desert, followed by a cultural evening and

dinner at a luxury hotel.

Day 4: JodhpurA city ringed by high stone walls with seven gates and several bastions,

Jodhpur is known for its rock solid Mehrangarh Fort and Grand Palaces.

Day 5: Sawai MadhopurToday visit Ranthambore National Park, considered to be one of the best

parks to see tigers in their natural surroundings.

Day 6: UdaipurToday enjoy Udaipur, the Lake City, full of dreamlike marble palaces.

Day 7: Bharatpur and AgraIn the morning visit the world-famous bird sanctuary, Keoladeo Ghana

National Park, spend the afternoon in Agra and visit the famous Taj Mahal.

The journey departs Delhi every Wednesday from September 2011 to

March 2012.

Roll back the pages of time for one glorious week; recapture the pomp and

pageantry of the past in royal style. Step aboard the Palace on Wheels,

once the personal railway coaches of the rulers of Gujarat and Rajpuntana.

India Train Journeys

Palace on Wheels

8 days/7 nights • Train journey

Golden Chariot

The Golden Chariot is a luxury hotel on wheels, where the discerning

traveller will have the chance to immerse themself in the flavour and

diversity of India as a world of fantasy is unravelled. Reach out and touch

history and discover the stone architecture, timeless heritage sites,

resplendent palaces, wildlife and golden beaches. The journey is an

experience of opulence and regality and takes you through the history of

Indian culture.

Day 1: BengaluruYour tour starts with lunch at the Leela Palace, followed by an afternoon

tour of Bengaluru, before the Golden Chariot sets off for Chennai.

Overnight train journey.

Day 2: ChennaiEnjoy a full-day tour of Chennai

and Mamallapuram, an old coastal

port just outside of Chennai.

Day 3: PondicherryFormally a French colony, the

seaside villas and cobbled streets

are more reminiscent of the South

of France than the South of India.

Day 4: Tiruchirapalli andThanjavurSituated on the banks of the River

Kaveri, just 320 kilometres from Chennai, visit the famous Rock Fort Temple

and the Brihadeshwara Temple.

Day 5: MaduraiOne of southern India’s oldest cities and centre of learning and pilgrimage,

visit the Hall of a thousand Pillars and Meenakshi Temple.

Day 6: ThiruvananthapuramSee the Padmanbhaswamy Temple with its seven stories and curious

pagoda, the Sri Chitra Art Gallery and the Napier Museum.

Day 7: Backwaters and KochiCruise through the backwaters of Kerala on a traditional boat, visiting

Kumarakom, a backwater village before heading to Kochi for the afternoon.

Day 8: BengaluruArrive into Bengaluru after breakfast this morning.

The journey departs Delhi selected Mondays from October 2011 –

March 2012.

Bengaluru • Chennai • Mamallapuram • Pondicherry • Tiruchirapalli and Thanjavur • Madurai • Thiruvananthapuramand Poovar • Backwaters and Kochi • Bengaluru

8 days/7 nights • Train journey

Delhi • Jaipur • Jaisalmer • Jodhpur • Sawai Madhopur • Udaipur • Bharatpur • Agra • Delhi

29

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Hundreds of years ago, India was

made up of 565 kingdoms and the

royal families of each built opulent and

grand palaces. In 1971 the Constitution

of India abolished the status of royalty

and all royal privileges were withdrawn.

This led to the sale of many of these

‘Royal Palaces’ and has seen them

converted into stunning hotels. Today,

you have the chance to experience the

royal lifestyle of the Maharajas of India,

when you enjoy the luxurious ambience

of a palace stay in India. Whether you

choose to stay in a fairytale palace that rises like a marble vision from an

azure lake, like in a heritage fortress perched high on a hill, ride an elephant

into a grand courtyard or relax and enjoy the service of your own personal

butler, you will be sure to have an unforgettable holiday in royal style.

The Oberoi Amarvilãs

Location: Close to the Taj Mahal.

Located only 600 metres from the Taj Mahal, The Oberoi Amarvilãs

gives discerning travellers the opportunity to appreciate the one time

Mughal capital while enjoying world-class luxury. The hotel has been

designed to provide breathtaking views of the Taj Mahal from all guest

rooms and suites, as well as the lobby and bar. Kheria Airport is

12 kilometres away.

Facilities: 105 rooms and suites. Two restaurants, bar, 24-hour room

service, shopping arcade, beauty salon, business centre, butler service,

babysitting, interconnecting and non-smoking rooms.

Premier Rooms: These rooms offer a view of the Taj Mahal.

Air-conditioning, hairdryer,

bathrobe, TV, CD, DVD,

data ports, minibar and safe.

Sports and leisure: Outdoor

pool, fitness centre, spa, sauna,

steam bath, massage and

excursions.

Check-in: 1200 hours

Check-out: 1200 hours.

Location: Outskirts of Jaipur.

Located in tranquil countryside, eight kilometres from the city centre

and shopping district, this deluxe, individually-styled hotel revives

the gracious lifestyle of India’s legendary Rajput princes. Jaipur Airport

is 18 kilometres away.

Facilities: 71 tents and villas. Restaurant, bar, 24-hour room service,

shop, hairdresser, business centre, butler service, babysitting and

non-smoking rooms.

Premier Rooms: Spacious Italian marble bathrooms overlooking

private walled gardens. Air-conditioning, hairdryer, bathrobe, TV,

CD, data ports, minibar, tea and coffee and safe.


pool, fitness centre, spa,

sauna, jacuzzi, steam bath,

tennis courts, pitch and putt,

jogging track, croquet

greens and excursions.



India Luxury Stays

The Oberoi Rajvilãs

King Room

Deluxe Room

Enjoy luxurious palace stays

Luxury Stays of India

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31

Rambagh Palace

Location: Central Jaipur.

Situated in the heart of the city, close to the main shopping areas and

historical monuments, this palace was built as a modest four room

pavilion for a lady-in-waiting. It was converted to a hotel 122 years later.

Jaipur Airport is 22 kilometres away.

Facilities: 90 rooms and suites. Two restaurants, two bars, 24-hour room

service, shopping arcade, beauty salon, babysitting, interconnecting

and non-smoking rooms.

Palace Rooms: These rooms offer

a garden view. Air-conditioning,

hairdryer, bathrobe, TV, data ports,

minibar and safe.

Sports and leisure: Indoor pool,

fitness centre, spa, sauna, steam

bath, massage, mini golf, tennis

court, squash court, jogging track,

croquet, billiards room and

excursions.



Taj Falaknuma PalaceLocation: Hyderabad.

Taj Falaknuma Palace is also known as the ‘mirror of the sky’ because

at 2,000 feet, it was built in the clouds and reflects the ever changing

moods of the sky. Passed on for generations, like a precious jewel,

the palace has undergone a 10-year restoration and offers visitors a

glimpse of the imperial lifestyle of the Nizams, who governed the

legendary city of Hyderabad. Hyderabad Airport is 23 kilometres away.

Facilities: 60 rooms and suites. Three restaurants, bar, 24-hour room

service, shopping arcade, beauty salon, butler service, babysitting,

interconnecting and non-smoking rooms.

Palace Rooms: Air-conditioning, hairdryer, bathrobe, TV, data ports,

minibar and safe.


pool, spa, sauna, steam bath,

massage, billiards room and

excursions.



Location: Udaipur.

Located in the middle of Lake Pichola, the Taj Lake Palace is a dream

of white marble and mosaic reflecting off the tranquil waters. This

palace was built in 1746 and preserves the heritage and tradition

of the erstwhile rulers of Udaipur. The palace spans across a

four acre island. Udaipur Airport is 27 kilometres away.


service, shopping arcade, beauty salon, butler service, babysitting,


Luxury Rooms: Air-conditioning, hairdryer, bathrobe, TV, data ports,

minibar and safe.

Sports and leisure:Outdoor pool, fitness

centre, spa, sauna,

steam bath, massage

and excursions.



India Luxury Stays

Taj Lake Palace

Palace Room

Palace Room

Pool

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DelhiImmortal city

Delhi

Red Fort

With a rich tapestry of tradition, culture and architecture, New Delhi, India’s

stunning capital speaks eloquently of its 3,000-year old history under

many rulers. It is also a city where the latest trends in art, music, fashion

and theatre attracts a host of professionals, businessmen and glitterati.

Old Delhi, also called Shahjahanabad after the Mughal emperor Shah

Jahan, is home to many fine examples of Mughal architecture, including

the Red Fort and the Jama Masjid. Other landmarks include Chandni

Chowk, a favourite with bargain shoppers and Karim’s, a 100-year old

restaurant famous for its Mughlai cuisine. The very picture of the capital

city the British first designed it to be in 1931, New Delhi is a city of

gardens, fountains, wide tree-lined avenues and imposing colonial

buildings like Rashtrapati Bhavan and Parliament House. Notable gardens

include the Roshan Ara Gardens, Lodhi Gardens and the meticulously

planned Mughal Gardens.

New Delhi has established its credentials as an economic and cultural

power centre. Home to the national academies of music, dance, drama,

art and literature, Delhi also boasts of numerous libraries and museums.

The city offers a colourful palette of dance, music and theatre performances,

art exhibitions and festivals all through the year. These attractions are

now augmented by a vibrant nightlife featuring a variety of trendy cafés,

bars and a host of restaurants offering a variety of international cuisines.

Delhi’s markets and speciality shops offer a variety of merchandise from

all over India. Of particular interest are the state government ‘emporiums’

in Connaught Place, Khan and Sunder Nagar Markets, Hauz Khas village

and Chanakyapuri’s Santushti

shopping complex, an upscale

collection of boutiques and shops.

Many of these places are easily

accessible by Delhi’s new and efficient

metro system.

Places of interest: Delhi’s past may

be discovered in the fascinating

collections of the National Museum,Crafts Museum, Museum of ModernArt and Rail Museum; the 17th

century Red Fort; Jama Masjid,

perhaps the nation’s most beautiful

mosque; Qutab Minar, a magnificent

800-year-old minaret; and India Gate.

Best buys: Delhi is a haven for

shoppers – hand-woven carpets, crisp

LE MERIDIEN

TAJ PALACEHOTEL

LEELA PALACEKEMPINSKI Delhi Golf

Course

cottons, soft silks, embroidered shawls, brocades, paintings, leather

goods, wood carvings, gems, jewellery, copper and brassware available

at Khan Market, Janpath and Santushti Shopping Complex.

Out and about: Although there are a number of international cuisines

available, Delhi’s specialities are time-honoured Mughlai and Tandoori

dishes. More adventurous visitors may wish to try a ‘dhaba’ – an

unpretentious ethnic restaurant which serves superb Mughlai food.

Qutab Minar

Average climate in DelhiJ F M A M J J A S O N D

MAX 0C 21 24 31 36 41 39 36 34 34 34 29 23

MIN 0C 7 9 14 20 26 28 27 26 24 18 11 8

HRS 7 9 8 9 8 6 6 6 7 9 10 8

MM 22 18 13 8 13 74 180 173 117 10 2 9

Daily maximum and minimum averages are guides only and may vary.

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33

The new city, planned as a

determinedly imperial capital was

designed so that its wide tree-lined

avenues and central circus, flanked

by solid colonial buildings, would link

up with the great monuments of the

old city.

Your excursion starts with an afternoon

pick-up from your hotel to take you on

a shopping tour of New Delhi. In the bazaars you will find hand-woven

carpets, intricately embroidered shawls, paintings, leather goods,

sandalwood carvings, gems, copper and brassware, perfumes, silver,

pearls and gold – all stacked high in inviting profusion. In contrast,

the modern malls stock goods from around the world, including all

the latest fashions.

From New Delhi we travel to the colossal red sandstone Old Fort or

Purana Qila, built in the 16th century on the site of the ancient city

of Indraprastha.

A unique fusion of Mughal, Hindu and Afghan architectural styles, with

walls extending for over two kilometres and reaching heights of 33 metres,

Purana Qila provides a stupendous backdrop to the evening’s Sound andLight show. The hour-long performance vividly depicts events from Delhi’s

5,000-year history. The advanced technology used has made it possible

to present startling special effects which, combined with the matchless

surroundings, make this show a hauntingly unforgettable experience.

Delhi shopping tour &sound and light showHalf-day seat-in-coach excursion

Delhi Excursions/Hotels

Leela Palace Kempinski HotelLocation: Chanakyapuri.

The hotel blends the magnificent architecture of the North Indian

palaces and represents the grace and elegance of Lutyen’s Delhi.

Experience the luxury in oversized hotel rooms and suites all equipped

with the latest technology, dine at one of the uber chic restaurants

or relax and rejuvenate yourself at the hotel spa. Indira Gandhi

International Airport is 13 kilometres away.

Facilities: 260 rooms and suites. Six restaurants, two bars, 24-hour

room service, shopping arcade, beauty salon, butler service,

babysitting, interconnecting and non-smoking rooms.

Grande Deluxe Rooms: Air-conditioning, hairdryer, bathrobe, TV,

iPod docking station, data ports, minibar and safe.

Sports and leisure: Rooftop pool, fitness centre, spa, sauna, steam

bath and massage.



Red Fort

Grande Deluxe Room

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Delhi Hotels

Taj Palace Hotel

Location: Chanakyapuri.

A luxury hotel with a distinctive Indian flavour, the Taj Palace Hotel

is located in Chanakyapuri, close to Delhi’s diplomatic enclave. The

hotel’s outlets include the award-winning Orient Express restaurant,

offering specialities from each region. The seating is inside unique

train carriages and a pianist entertains every evening. Indira Gandhi


Facilities: 419 rooms and suites. Four restaurants, 24-hour room

service, nightclub, shopping arcade, hairdresser, beauty salon,

safety deposit boxes, business

centre and babysitting.

Superior Rooms: Air-conditioning,

TV, data ports, minibar and safe.

Deluxe Rooms: Additionally these

rooms are pool-facing.

Sports and leisure: Outdoor pool,

fitness centre, sauna, steam bath

and a 9-hole putting green.



Le Méridien

Location: New Delhi.

Located in the centre of New Delhi, next door to the capital’s

fashionable shopping and cultural centre and right on Connaught

Place the hotel is perfectly located for tourists and business

travellers alike. The hotel offers views of Lyuten’s Delhi, India

Gate and the Parliament. Indira Gandhi International Airport is

17 kilometres away.

Facilities: 355 rooms and suites. Five restaurants, two bars, 24-hour

room service, shop, beauty salon, babysitting, interconnecting and

non-smoking rooms.

Executive Rooms: Air-

conditioning, hairdryer, bathrobe,

TV, data ports, minibar, coffee

and tea and safe.


pool, fitness centre, spa, sauna,

steam room, jacuzzi and

massage.



The Oberoi

Location: Dr Zakir Hussain Marg.

The Oberoi reflects the city’s spirit in a harmonious blend of tradition

and contemporary sophistication. Situated close to the city centre

near business, commercial and shopping districts, this luxury hotel

overlooks Delhi’s prestigious Golf Club on one side and the heritage

site of Humayun’s Tomb on the other. The major sightseeing

attractions are all conveniently located. Indira Gandhi International

Airport is 18 kilometres away.


service, shopping arcade, hairdresser, beauty salon, business centre,

butler service, babysitting, interconnecting and non-smoking rooms.

Deluxe Rooms: Separate sitting area

with work desk, air-conditioning,

hairdryer, bathrobe, TV, fax machine,

data ports, minibar and safe.


fitness centre, spa, sauna, jacuzzi,

steam bath, massage and jogging track.



Superior Room

Deluxe Room

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MumbaiThe gateway to India

Mumbai

TRIDENT NARIMANPOINT, MUMBAI

Mumbai will bowl you over. Located at the edge of the Arabian Sea with

a deep natural sea harbour, a heaving population and India’s commercial

capital, formerly known as Bombay, is a vibrant, confident metropolis

that’s tangibly high in energy.

Originally home to Koli fisher folk, the largest of the seven islands that

comprise Mumbai was given by the Portuguese as a dowry to Charles II

of England when he married Catherine. Subsequently The English took

control of the six remaining islands and leased it to the East India

Company, who offered various business incentives for people to come

and settle in the city. Since its inception in the 17th century the city has

continued to draw fortune-seekers from all over India.

Mumbai is the birthplace and home to the glamorous Indian cinema

industry – Bollywood. Besides cinema, the city has a thriving theatrical

tradition in Marathi, Hindi, Urdu, English and other regional languages. It

also boasts of two Unesco World Heritage sites, the Chhatrapati Shivaji

Terminus and the Elephanta Caves. Mumbai with its vibrant street life,

India’s best nightlife and a wealth of bazaars and shopping malls will

leave visitors fascinated.

Places of interest: Famous sites include the 1,400-year-old ElephantaCaves; Prince of Wales Museum, housing a superb collection of 17th

and 18th century art; the Gateway of India, an imposing monument;

the Hanging Gardens, on the crest of Malabar Hill; and the splendid

Victorian Gothic Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus).

Best buys: Colaba Causeway for clothing, leatherwear, bric-a-brac,

brassware, jewellery and prints of Indian art; Fashion Street for the latest

designs at low prices; Zaveri Bazaar for jewellery; Chor Bazaar (thieves’

market) for antiques;

Breach Candy and

Kemps Corner for

haute couture.

Out and about: Night-

time entertainment ranges

from the sophisticated

to the casual. There are

fine restaurants, chic

discothèques, jazz bars

and performances of

Indian classical music

and dance.

Average climate in Mumbai

J F M A M J J A S O N D

MAX 0C 28 28 30 32 33 32 29 29 29 32 32 31

MIN 0C 19 19 22 24 27 26 25 24 24 24 23 21

HRS 9 10 9 10 10 5 2 3 5 8 9 9

MM 3 3 2 0 18 485 617 340 264 64 13 3


Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

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36

Mumbai

The Oberoi Location: Nariman Point.

Centrally located on Marine Drive in the heart of the city’s shopping

district, this elegant luxury hotel overlooks the famous ‘Queen’s Necklace’

and the Arabian Sea. It is the preferred choice of discerning travellers

and the perfect gateway to India. Many architectural landmarks, vestiges

of the British era, are situated close by. Chhatrapati Shivaji International


The Oberoi has long had a reputation for gracious hospitality and

unsurpassed comfort offering impeccable service and understated luxury.

The hotel also features a spa and fitness centre offering a rejuvenating

experience combining ancient Ayurvedic principles, aromatherapy and

western techniques.


service, shopping arcade, hairdresser, beauty salon, safety deposit boxes,

business centre, butler service, babysitting, interconnecting and

non-smoking rooms.

Deluxe City View Rooms: These rooms offer a city view. Air-conditioning,

hairdryer, TV, data ports, minibar and safe.

Premier Rooms:Additionally these rooms

have a breathtaking view

of the Arabian Sea and

the ‘Queen’s Necklace’.

Sports and leisure:Outdoor pool, fitness

centre, spa, sauna,

steam bath and massage.



Premier Room

Excursions/Hotels

Mumbai is the style capital

of India. From the bustling

street bazaars to the exclusive

designer boutiques, fashion

blends and clashes here in a

way that is unique to the rest

of the country. Better known

as ‘shopper’s paradise’, ashopping tour of Mumbaiis a must for any visitor.

Your full-day private tour will

include visits to CrawfordMarkets, famous for the fresh

produce. This was the first

building to get electricity in

Mumbai, the laneways come

to life at night as they turn into

open air BBQ’s. We also visit Chor Bazaar (Thieves Market), an antique

lover’s paradise before heading to Colaba Causeway, Fashion Streetand Hill Road, the perfect places to shop for clothes, jewellery and shoes.

A shopping tour would not be complete without a visit to Dharavi, with

over 150 leather shops; you are bound to find something! Or if you prefer

the designer outlet stores then just say the word and Etcetera is the

place to head.

This tour can be tailor-made for individual guests to suit your personal

tastes.

Mumbai shopping tourFull-day chauffeur-driven private carexcursion

Crawford Market

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37

The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai Location: Gateway of India.

Built in 1903, this gracious landmark hotel offers panoramic views

of the Arabian Sea and The Gateway of India. The hotel is just minutes

away from the city’s prime banking, commercial, cultural and shopping

centres. It is an architectural marvel bringing together Moorish, Oriental

and Florentine styles. Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is

32 kilometres away.

Facilities: 565 rooms and suites. Six restaurants, two bars, 24-hour

room service, shopping arcade, hairdresser, beauty salon, butler

service, business centre, babysitting, interconnecting and

non-smoking rooms.

Luxury Grand City View Rooms:Air-conditioning, hairdryer, bathrobe,

TV, data ports, minibar, tea and coffee

and safe.

Sports and leisure: Outdoor pool, fitness

centre, spa, sauna and steam bath.



Trident Nariman Point, Mumbai

Location: Mumbai city centre.

Now part of the famous Mumbai skyline, the hotel is located in the

heart of the business district with easy access to major attractions

and entertainment, and stunning views over the Arabian Sea. The city’s

main promenade, Marine Drive runs along the front of the hotel and

lights up at night to give spectacular views. Chhatrapati Shivaji


Facilities: 550 rooms and suites. Four restaurants, two bars, 24-hour

room service, hairdresser, beauty salon, business centre, babysitting,

interconnecting and non-smoking

rooms.

Superior Rooms: Air-conditioning,

hairdryer, bathrobe, TV, data

ports, minibar, tea and coffee and

safe.


fitness centre, spa, sauna and

steam bath.



Location: Suburb of Bandra.

Nestled in the elite suburb of Bandra, the emerging business district

of Mumbai, the Taj Lands End provides the ultimate in modern facilities

and convenience. Its unique location makes it an ideal choice for both

business and leisure travellers. Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport


Facilities: 368 rooms and suites. Four restaurants, bar, 24-hour room

service, shop, safety deposit boxes, business centre, babysitting,


Deluxe Rooms: Air-conditioning,

hairdryer, TV, data ports, minibar,

tea and coffee, iron and safe.


fitness centre, spa, sauna, steam

bath and massage.



Mumbai Hotels

Taj Lands End

Luxury Grand City View Room

Superior Room

Deluxe Room

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Kochi Hotels

Vivanta by Taj, Malabar

KochiGateway to the backwatersOwing to a natural harbour carved out by massive flooding in 1341, Cochin,

now called Kochi, was the first port of call for Arabs, Chinese and European

seafarers eager to trade in Indian spices. Some of the world’s best

Ayurvedic resorts are located in Kochi. These, along with the idyllic

backwaters are a big attraction for tourists who need a refreshing getaway.

Places of interest: Explore Fort Cochin on foot to see fishermen using

cantilevered Chinese fishing nets; walk through ‘the Jewish Quarter’to see Paradesi Synagogue, symbol of a community active in Kerala; visit

St Francis Church on Church Road, India’s earliest European church,

where Vasco Da Gama was buried; located on Bastion Street is SantaCruz Cathedral, whose caryatids and exquisite stained glass are worth

a look; take a ferry to the 18th century Dutch-built Bolghotty Palaceon an island near Ernakulam; or head to the Kochi International PepperExchange to see Kerala’s ‘karuthu ponnu’ or ‘black gold’ being sold to

the highest bidders.

Kochi

VIVANTA BY TAJ,MALABAR

Tower Wing Room

Average climate in Kochi

J F M A M J J A S O N D

MAX 0C 30 31 31 31 31 28 28 28 28 29 30 30

MIN 0C 23 25 26 26 26 25 24 24 25 25 25 23

HRS 9 10 10 10 9 7 5 6 7 7 7 7

MM 9 34 50 139 364 756 572 386 235 333 184 37


Out and about: See the famous Kathakali masked dance performances.

The spicy South Indian cuisine, especially the seafood, is not to be

missed. Try the restaurants on Willingdon Island serving local fare.

Best buys: Antiques and spices near the Dutch Palace in Mattancherry;

carpets and handicrafts from MG Road.

Location: Willingdon Island.

With a magnificent view of the harbour and the backwaters, the

Vivanta by Taj, Malabar combines old-world elegance with modern

conveniences. Its Heritage Wing, built in 1935, has graceful

Victorian-inspired interiors that aptly reflect the inherent beauty of

Kochi. While the Tower Wing houses newly renovated rooms and

is inspired by local architecture and reflects a delicate mix of the

classic with the contemporary. Nedumbassery International Airport


Discover amazing restaurants which offer the finest in local and

world cuisine.

Facilities: 96 rooms and suites. Four restaurants, two bars, 24-hour

room service, shops, beauty salon, business centre, babysitting,


Tower Wing Rooms: These rooms offer a sea view. Air-conditioning,

hairdryer, bathrobes, TV, data ports, minibar, tea and coffee and safe.

Sports and leisure: Outdoor pool, fitness centre, spa, jacuzzi and

steam bath.

Check-in: 1400 hours/Check-out: 1200 hours.

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Kochi/Kumarakom/Alleppey Hotels/Resorts

Le Méridien Cochin Resort & Convention Centre Location: Maradu, Ernakulam.

Located amongst 25 acres of coconut groves and backwater, yet only

minutes away from the city centre, Le Méridien brings to Kerala a

unique brand of European flair and international hospitality served

with a smile. The versatile dining options are an invitation to enjoy the

tastes of international living. Nedumbassery International Airport is

32 kilometres away.


service, shops, safety deposit boxes, business centre, babysitting,


Deluxe Rooms: These rooms offer

a garden view. Air-conditioning,

hairdryer, TV, data ports, minibar,

tea and coffee and safe.


fitness centre, spa, sauna, jacuzzi,

steam bath, massage, jogging

track, boating and fishing.



Marari Beach

Location: Mararikulam, Alleppey.

This resort, set in 35 acres of beautiful, rambling gardens with

coconut palms and tropical trees, leads down to the vast expanse

of Marari Beach. Modelled on the fishermen’s dwellings of

Mararikulam, the accommodations are a fine balance between

traditional form and modern function. Nedumbassery International


Facilities: 62 villas, two restaurants (one seasonal), bar, shop,

children’s activities, babysitting and interconnecting rooms.

Garden Villas: These thatched villas offer a garden view. Terrace,

air-conditioning, hairdryer, bathrobe, minibar, tea and coffee and safe.

Garden Pool Villas: Additionally

these villas have a plunge pool

with garden.


spa, massage, yoga classes, floodlit

tennis courts, badminton, TV and

games room.



The Zuri Kumarakom Resort & Spa, Kerala Beach

Location: Vembanad Lake.

Built on 18 acres of land, this resort with one of the finest and the

biggest spa in South India, is located right on the shores of the

picturesque Vembanad Lake in Kumarakom. This elegant resort

is set in tranquil, serene landscaped gardens. A man-made lagoon

in the heart of the property adds to its South-Indian charm and

identity. Nedumbassery International Airport is 81 kilometres away.

Facilities: 72 rooms and suites. Two restaurants, bar, 24-hour

room service, shops, hairdresser, beauty salon, business centre,

children’s activities, children’s play area, babysitting,


Superior Lagoon View Rooms:Air-conditioning, hairdryer, bathrobe,

TV, data ports, minibar, tea and

coffee and safe.


spa, steam bath, massage, sailing

and water sports.



Deluxe Room

Superior Lagoon View Room

Garden Villa

039 3 hotels_L8:Asia 1/20/11 11:26 AM Page 1

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