Return Rejuvenated Incredible Vacation Ideas 1 Give wings to your senses. Experience new vistas of life. Explore the world around. Come close as a family. Bond as a team. Discover the joy of togetherness. And most of all return rejuvenated. That’s the promise of vacation ideas from PL Worldways. Dedicated to the travellers looking for holistic experience 2 Index Family holidays pilgrim tours Introduction to Kerala...................................... 8 Tamil Nadu & Kerala Tour.............................. 12 Karnataka Kaleidoscope............................... 16 Central India Tour.......................................... 20 Introduction to Rajasthan.............................. 24 Rajasthan: Wildlife & Culture Tour................. 28 Golden Triangle Tour with Mandawa............. 32 Hills, Mountains & Temples Tour................... 36 Orchids & Monasteries Tour.......................... 40 Enchanting Kashmir...................................... 44 Alluring Andamans........................................ 48 A Journey of Faith......................................... 80 Pilgrims’ Progress......................................... 84 Spiritual Sojourn............................................ 86 Navagraha Temples’ Tour.............................. 90 Spiritual Serenity........................................... 92 Weekend Getaways Ex Kochi........................................................ 54 Ex Coimbatore............................................... 58 Ex Chennai.................................................... 60 Ex Bangalore................................................. 64 Ex Mumbai.................................................... 68 Ex Kolkata..................................................... 70 Ex Delhi......................................................... 72 INTERNATIONAL JOURNEYS Sri Lanka Ecstasy (07 Days).......................... 96 Singapore Malaysia Delight (07 Days)........... 98 Amazing USA (12 Days).............................. 102 Spanish Masala (08 Days)........................... 106 Spectacular South Africa (07 Days)............. 110 CORPORATE RETREAT.............................. 114 SCHOOL TOURS........................................ 116 To Index family holidays To Index DAY 01 KOCHI – MUNNAR 130 KMS; 03H30M Depart by surface for Munnar. Arrive Munnar and check-into your Hotel. Munnar, a nature-lover’s paradise, snuggling in the green and serene Kannan Devan Hills is a quiet and a restful resort. Panoramic views of low-flying clouds and mist filled valleys make it a pretty little heaven with a cool bracing climate. It was opened up out of virgin forests a century ago by pioneering planters. Introduction to Kerala Munnar – Thekkady - Kumarakom Within its remote and elderly churches - gracious, stonestructures with ancient chandeliers and rosewood pews. A little beyond lies Anaimudi, South India’s highest peak. In the vicinity is the Eravikulam National Park, the home of the endangered Nilgiri Thar that roams on a stretch of grassland or is seen climbing the pinnacles of the undulating hills. Here you can have a glimpse of a Gaur, Langur, Lion-tailed macaque, and Elephants roaming in herds. Rest of the day is at leisure to soak in the surroundings of lush mountains and tea, coffee & cardamom plantation, Overnight at the Hotel. 8 DAY 02 MUNNAR Breakfast at the Hotel. Full day sightseeing tour of this hill station A very popular tourist attraction in Munnar, Tata Tea Museum is located around 2 km from Munnar in Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea. The museum showcases various antiquities and the most famous among them is the burial urn excavated from the vicinity of Periakanal Estate, dating back to 2nd century. Curious, old photographs and machinery are also displayed in the museum. For the tourists, to get a glimpse into the history and culture of the region, a video presentation is screened here. The scenic waterfall of Atukkad lies at a distance of about 2 km from Munnar town. Amidst lush green forest and hills, this waterfall is a worth visiting spot in Munnar. With fewer crowds, it is an ideal place for romantic escapes and picnics. Located around 21 km from Munnar, this arch dam with its natural surroundings is a major attraction of Munnar. From the top of the Dam, tourists can have a panoramic view of the natural greens. Adjoining to the Dam is the beautiful lake with boating facilities. The lake is surrounded by the picturesque mountain slopes of tea garden. Going for a ride in Kashmiri-Shikara boat on the lake would be a marvellous experience. 9 To Index Besides, the lake also has facilities of row boats as well as pedal boats. Mattupetty dam is approximately 13 km from Munnar in Kerala. It is situated at an altitude of 1700m above the sea level and is highly famous for the Indo-Swiss live stock projects. The dam is the perfect spot to see hundred ranges of high yielding cattle nurtured. Close to the Dam is a beautiful lake, which is a well known tourist spot in the area. It offers boating facilities. The tourists are permitted to see three cattle sheds at the farm out of the eleven cattle sheds. The Mattupetty dam as well as the lake are at close proximity from the farm and are very charming picnic spots. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 03 MUNNAR – THEKKADY 110 KMS; 03H Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart for Thekkady. Upon arrival at Thekkady, check-into your Hotel. Set in the heart of the Cardamom Hills of Kerala the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve, offers a rare opportunity to enjoy South India’s wild life and beauty. The park has a picturesque lake at the heart of the sanctuary. Herds of elephant and sambar, gaur and 10 wild pigs and wander down to the lakeside and can be observed from the launches that cruise the lake. Periyar also harbours the leopard, wild dog, barking deer and mouse deer. On the rocky outcrops along the lake, monitor lizards can be seen basking in the sun. OPTIONAL: In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on the Periyar Lake to view the wildlife. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 04 THEKKADY After breakfast, leave for a spice plantation visit where one can see the cultivation of a whole range of spices like pepper, cardamom, cloves, turmeric, vanilla, all spice cinnamon etc. This is followed by a visit to spice shops which are found in the small town of Kumily just 01 km from the hotels. Enjoy an Elephant ride here. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 05 THEKKADY – BACKWATER COUNTRY 120 KMS; 03H15M After breakfast at the Hotel you will be driven via Kottayam town to boat jetty, you will embark on a Houseboat. Kettuvallam, as it is called, offers a panoramic view of one of the most picturesque aspects of the God’s Own Country. One can cruise in it through the palm-fringed backwaters. The lullaby of the waves and the dazzling delights of the moonlit night can be experienced by spending a night aboard the Kettuvallam. A backwater comprises of a unique web of rivers, lakes, bays, lagoons and canals extending into the villages and town of the city. This backwater journey through the narrow canals crossing exquisite villages of Kerala, embellished with lush green paddy fields, tall coconut grooves makes it a most spellbinding experience. Lunch and dinner served on the Houseboat. Overnight on board the Houseboat. DAY 06 KUMARAKOM – KOCHI 65 KMS; 01H35M Breakfast on board the Houseboat. Arrive Kumarakom and disembark from the Houseboat. Transfer to the Kochi Airport for the flight back home. Overnight at the Hotel. Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart for Thekkady. Upon arrival at Thekkady, check-into your Hotel 11 To Index DAY 01 CHENNAI – TIRUCHIRAPALLI 325 KMS; 04H30M Depart by surface to Tiruchirapalli. Tiruchirappalli, situated on the banks of the river Cauvery is the fourth largest city in Tamil Nadu. It was a citadel of the early Cholas, which later fell to the Pallavas. Trichy is a fine blend of tradition and modernity built around the Rock Fort. Apart from the Fort, there are several Churches, Colleges and Missions dating back to the 1760s. The town and its fort, now in Trichy were built by the Nayaks of Madurai. Tamil Nadu & Kerala Tour Tiruchirapalli – Madurai – Thekkady – Kumarakom - Kochi Arrive Tiruchirapalli and check-into your Hotel. Visit the Rock Fort, which is a landmark of Trichy. The rock is one of the oldest in the world-approximately 3.800 million years, which makes it as old as the rocks of Greenland and older than the Himalayas. A climb of 434 steps leads to the ancient temple of Ganapati on top and a further climb to a Shiva Temple. You will visit Sri Rangan Temple. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 02 TIRUCHIRAPALLI – MADURAI 135 KMS; 01H55M After breakfast at the Hotel, you will be driven from Tiruchirapalli to Madurai. The ancient city of Madurai, one of southern India’s oldest with 12 a recorded history going back to the 6th century B.C., has been a seat of learning from time immemorial and the centre from which the Tamil language developed and flourished. Arrive Madurai and check-into your Hotel. Late afternoon visit the focal point of the town - the famous Meenakshi temple in the heart of the old town, a riotously baroque example of Dravidian architecture with gopurams (towers) covered from top to bottom with a breathless profusion of multi-colored images of gods, goddesses, animals and mythical figures. Return to the Temple in the evening to witness the Bed-Chamber Ceremony or the evening Aarti. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 03 MADURAI – THEKKADY 140 KMS; 02H40M Breakfast at the Hotel. Morning sightseeing of the Tirumalai Palace, which was restored by Lord Napier, now a venue for dance drama concerts performed daily. You will then be driven to Tiruparankudram rock cut temples, which though smaller than the Meenakshi Temple, has a huge facade of blue and yellow dragons. Inside there is a maze of dark rooms filled with sculptures. Around mid-morning, depart for Thekkady. 13 To Index Set in the heart of the Cardamom Hills of Kerala the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve, offers a rare opportunity to enjoy South India’s wild life and beauty. The park has a picturesque lake at the heart of the sanctuary. Herds of elephant and sambar, gaur and wild pigs wander down to the lakeside and can be observed from the launches that cruise the lake. Periyar also harbours the leopard, wild dog, barking deer and mouse deer. Upon arrival at Thekkady, check-into your Hotel. In the afternoon, proceed to the picturesque lake at the heart of the sanctuary for a boat cruise to view the wildlife. The splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar adds to the charm of the park. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 04 THEKKADY – BACKWATER COUNTRY 140 KMS; 03H40M Breakfast at the Hotel After breakfast at the Hotel you will be driven to Alappuzha (formerly Alleppey) where, you will embark on a Houseboat. Kettuvallam, as it is called, offers a panoramic view of one of the most picturesque aspects of the God’s Own Country. One can cruise in it through 14 the palm-fringed backwaters, throughout a night in waxing moonlights. Afternoon, proceed for a spice plantation visit where one can see the cultivation of a whole range of spices like pepper, cardamom, cloves, turmeric, vanilla, all spice cinnamon etc. This is followed by a visit to spice shops which are found in the small town of Kumily just 01 km from the hotels. Lunch and dinner served on the Houseboat. Overnight on board the Houseboat. DAY 05 BACKWATER COUNTRY CONTINUED Breakfast on board the Houseboat. Disembark from the Houseboat and check-into a Hotel. Another day in lovely backwater staying in the hotel. In the lush backwaters of Kottayam in Kerala, lies a veritable paradise, which is called Kumarakom, or the ‘Venice of the East’. Palm fringed narrow canals winding through the vast expanse of paddy fields, and the neat tiny hamlets lined up along either side of the canals are panoramic sights one can never forget. Late afternoon proceed for a boat ride i.e. Sunset cruise on the Vembanad Lake. You will come across many rare species of birds present in the Kumarakom bird sanctuary, returning to their nests with the sunset. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 06 KUMARAKOM – KOCHI 65 KMS; 01H35M Breakfast at the Hotel. Surface transfer from Kumarakom to Kochi. More popular as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, Cochin is a cluster of islands on the vast expanse of the Vembanad Lake. The Lake opens out into the Arabian Sea here to form one of the finest natural harbours in the world. Upon arrival at Kochi, check-into your Hotel. Sightseeing tour of the city visiting the Dutch Palace (Closed on Fridays and Jewish Holidays), also known as Mattancherry Palace, built by the Portuguese and presented to the Raja of Cochin in 1555 AD. Jewish Synagogue (Closed on Fridays, Saturdays and Jewish Holidays) was built in 1568 AD. The Great Scrolls of the Old Testament, the copper plates in which the grants of privilege made by the Cochin rulers were recorded and the exquisite Chinese hand-painted tiles are of interest. St. Francis Church - the Protestant church was originally built by the Portuguese in 1510 AD and is believed to be the oldest church built by the Europeans in India. In the evening you will be taken to a Kathakali dance centre where you will witness the most elaborate of the dance forms in southern India. Overnight at the hotel DAY 07 DEPART KOCHI Breakfast at the Hotel. Transfer to the Airport for your flight back home. 15 To Index Day 01 Bangalore - Hassan 185 kms; 02H45M Depart by surface for Hassan. Upon arrival at Hassan, check-into your Hotel. Hassan was under the control of great Hoysala Empire during 11th to 13th century AD. This was the period when the great temples of Belur and Halebid were constructed. The region of Hassan was also greatly influenced by Jainism and later it became a well-known centre of Jain literature. Karnataka Kaleidoscope Hassan – Mysore – Ooty— Nagarhole Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 02 Hassan – Mysore 120 kms; 02H15M Breakfast at the Hotel. In the morning proceed for day excursion to Belur and Halebid. Belur is situated around 38 km from Hassan. The Channekeshava Temple at Belur is the only one of the three major Hoysala sites still in use. The construction of this temple started in AD 1116 to commemorate the victory of the Hoysalas over the Cholas at Talakad. It took around hundred years to complete the work. Halebid - Situated around 33 km from Hassan is Halebid, 16 famous for its Hoyasaleswara temple. The construction of the Hoyasaleswara Temple was started in AD 1121 and continued for around 90 years, but never completed. Thereafter, transfer to Mysore. Arrive Mysore and check-into your Hotel. The Maharaja’s Palace is one of the important sights in Mysore. Built in Indo-Saracenic style with domes, turrets, arches and colonnades, the Palace is a treasure house of exquisite carvings and works of art from all over the world. Intricately carved doors open on to luxuriously furnished rooms. The majestic Durbar Hall has an ornate ceiling and many sculpted pillars. The magnificent jewel studded golden throne of the Wodeyars is displayed here during the Dassehra festival. Illuminated on Sundays and public holidays, the palace presents a spectacle of breathtaking beauty. Also visit the Rajendra Art Gallery, which has some remarkable selections of paintings by Raja Ravi Verma, Nicholas Roerich and traditional paintings in the Mysore style. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 Mysore Breakfast at the Hotel. Morning visit the Chamundi Hills which overlook the Mysore 17 To Index city. Chamundi Hill can be reached by a 13 km road or by climbing up the 1,000 steps laid out by the Mysore Maharaja in the 17th century. Halfway up along the stone steps is Nandi, Lord Shiva’s Bull, a majestic 4.8 meters monolith. Afternoon is at leisure for independent activities. In the evening you would be driven to the outskirt of the city to see the illuminated Brindavan Gardens. Located at the KR Sagar Dam (Kannambadi), Brindavan Gardens is one of the best gardens in South India. Spread over 150 acres, Brindavan Gardens has since the 1960s provided the backdrop for many Indian films. Special attractions include the ‘Dancing Fountains’. Brindavan garden is located 12 Kms northwest of Mysore city and has rows-of colourful fountains. The dam is over 3 Kms long and is constructed at the junction of three rivers - Kaveri, Hemavati and Lakshmanathirtha. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 04 Mysore – Ooty 85kms; 02H30M Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart by surface for Ootacamund popularly known as Ooty. Arrive Ooty and check-into your Hotel. All over India the British located idyllic spots for hill resorts so as to get away from the heat of the plains in summer. In the 18 south, in the Nilgiri or Blue Mountains, they selected three spots, one of which is Ooty. Its beautiful gardens, wooden rolling hills, pine and eucalyptus forests and cool climate has earned Ooty the name, Queen of Hill Stations. The Nilgiris are known for their tea and coffee plantations and for the eucalyptus oil used as base for medicines for coughs and colds. Enjoy a ride on the ‘Toy Train’ from Ooty to Coonoor and back. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 05 Ooty – Nagarhole 90 kms; 02H00M Breakfast at the Hotel. Morning is at leisure. Opportunities exist to explore this hill station on your own. Visit the Government Botanical Gardens, laid out in 1847, is the most beautiful jewel on the crown of the “Queen of Hill Stations”. There are over 650 species of plants in the garden. The fossil of a tree trunk believed to be 20 million years old is preserved here. The graveyard of St Thomas Church, built in 1870, overlooks the lake and has a huge pillar surmounted by a cross over the grave of William Patrick Adam, the Governor of Madras Presidency. This pillar is the tallest memorial in Ooty. The small gothic-style St Stephen’s Church, built in 1829 and situated northwest of Charing Cross, is one of the oldest churches in the Nilgiri Mountains. The attached cemetery contains the grave of John Sullivan, the founder of Ooty. In the afternoon, depart by surface for Nagarhole. Upon arrival at Nagarhole, check-into your Hotel. Nagarhole is named after Nagarhole (Cobra river in the local language, Kannada), a winding river which runs eastwards through its centre. It is situated in the districts of Mysore and Kodagu in the state of Karnataka. The birth of Nagarhole National Park can be traced to the notification of 285 Sq. km. Game Reserve way back in 1955, which included the reserve forests of Arkeri, Hatgat and Nalkeri in Kodagu. Subsequently, in 1974, reserved forests from the adjoining Mysore district were added to the Nagarahole Game Reserve, which was upgraded to the status of a National Park covering 643 sq. km. Sighting of elephants, sambhar, spotted deer, gaur, wild boar, sloth bear, wild dogs, etc., are almost assured, while if one is lucky, a tiger or a panther too, could be sighted. Our clients are permitted to shoot, not with guns but with camera and video. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 07 Nagarhole – Bangalore 220 kms; 04H45M Breakfast at the Hotel. Transfer to the Bangalore Airport for your flight back home. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 06 Nagarhole Breakfast at the Hotel. Take a morning and an afternoon jungle safari to view the wildlife inside the park. Perhaps nowhere else in India can one see so much wildlife. 19 To Index DAY 01 DELHI – JHANSI – ORCHHA 17 KMS; 00H25M Transfer to the railway station to board the 12002 Shatabdi Express train to Jhansi (STD – 06:00). Arrive Jhansi STA – 10:45) and transfer to Orchha. Central India Tour Orchha – Khajuraho – Bandhavgarh Once the capital of Bundelas, Orchha is a village, set amongst a complex of well preserved palaces and temples. Though Orchha was founded in 1531, its golden age was during the first half of 17th century. When Jahangir visited the city in 1606, a special palace, the Jehangir Mahal was built for him. Upon arrival at Orchha, check-into your Hotel. In the afternoon you will visit the Orchha Fort. The tiered Jahangir Mahal was built in 1606 to commemorate the visit of Emperor Jahangir in 1606. The Raj Mahal, to the right of the courtyard, was built by Madhukar Shah and has bold colourful murals inside. Of the many temples within the fort, three are especially worth visiting. The Ram Raja Mandir was originally a palace and became a temple more by accident than design. An image of Ram was installed while the temple, The Chaturbhuj was being built for it. For some reason the image could not be moved from the palace and despite its spires and ornate decoration became a sacred place. Overnight at the Hotel. 20 DAY 02 ORCHHA – KHAJURAHO 175 KMS; 03H00M Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart by surface for Khajuraho. Located in the provincial state of Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho is known the world over for its temples, architecture and sculpture. The construction of these Temples “thousandyear old” took a little over two centuries by the architecture of these temples, they form the high peak of the north Indian ‘nagara’ style. Of the 85 temples believed to have been built between the 9th and 12th centuries only 20 have survived, many in splendid condition, others having given way to the ravages of time and nature. Upon arrival at Khajuraho, check-into your Hotel. Afternoon visit the Hindu and Jain temples that make up the Eastern Group, which lies close to the Khajuraho village. The largest Jain temple, Parswanath, is in this group. Exquisite in detail, the sculptures on the northern outer wall make this temple perhaps the finest in the group. The themes of these carvings are the timeless ones of every day, mortal activity. A woman sits bent pensively on a letter; a lovely young girl removes a thorn from her foot, the master craftsmen of Khajuraho display here their deep understanding of the trifles that make up a human life. Within, the sanctum has a throne, which faces a bull: emblem of the first tirthankara, Adinath. The 21 To Index actual image of Parswanath from which the temple derives its name was installed as recently as 1860. The three Hindu temples in the Eastern Group are the Brahma, Vamana and Javari Temples. A double row of apsaras, celestial nymphs, adorn the outer walls of the Vamana temple. A variety of sensuous attitudes: languid, provocative, mischievously inviting, give credibility to the theory that Khajuraho’s erotica were meant to test the devotees who came to worship their gods at the temples. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 03 KHAJURAHO – BANDHAVGARH 255 KMS; 05H15M Breakfast at the Hotel. In the morning visit the Chandela Temple Complex. The tour of Khajuraho concentrates on the famous erotic temples, which represent some of the finest examples of temple architecture in Northern India. The remote location of Khajuraho meant that the temples were unharmed by Muslim invaders and as a result, the intricately fine carvings are in very good condition and are said to represent life in heaven. They were built during the mighty Chandela dynasty, the majority were constructed in a sudden burst of creative and religious energy, between the mid-10th and 11th centuries. The temples remain as a reminder of a society that believed in the full enjoyment of life, with all the senses being a path 22 to nirvana. Of the eighty-five original temples only 22 remain, but many are in very good condition. You visit the Kandariya Mahadeva, the Chatrabhuj, Parswanath and Ghantai Temples, each remarkable for its beautiful design and architecture. Depart by surface for Bandhavgarh. The reserve is named after the highest hill in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Bandhavgarh has been an excellent habitat of tiger and is known for the highest density of tigers in the world. Considering the importance and potentiality of the National park, it was included in the Project Tiger Network in 1993. The adjoining Panpatha Sanctuary too was declared as a part of the Reserve. Arrive Bandhavgarh and check-into your Hotel. Dinner and overnight at the Hotel. DAY 04 BANDHAVGARH Breakfast at the Hotel. Morning safari inside the park. Lunch at the Hotel. Late afternoon enjoy another safari inside the park. During these drives you stand a very good chance of seeing the Lord of the Indian Jungle, the tiger. This magnificent striped cat was almost hunted down to extinction by 1970 after having numbered over 40,000 at the turn of the century. Thanks to the efforts of Project Tiger looking after reserves like Bandhavgarh, there is now a fighting chance for the beast to survive into the next Century. There are more than 22 species of mammals and 250 species of birds. Common languor’s and rhesus macaque represent the primate group. Carnivores include the Asiatic jackal, Bengal fox, sloth bear, ratel, grey mongoose, striped hyena, jungle cat, leopard and tiger. Breakfast at the Hotel. Rest of the morning is at leisure. Mid-morning transfer to Jabalpur to board the 22181 Jabalpur Nizamuddin Express (STD – 15:00). Overnight on board the train. DAY 06 ARRIVE DELHI Arrive Hazrat Nizamuddin (STA – 05:20). The vegetation along streams and marshes is rich in birdlife. The common ones are little grebe, egret, lesser adjutant, sarus crane, black kite, crested serpent eagle, black vulture, Egyptian vulture, common peafowl, red jungle fowl, dove, parakeet, kingfisher and Indian roller. Reptilian fauna include cobra, krait, viper, rat snake, python, turtle and lizard varieties, including varanus. Dinner and overnight at the Hotel. A relatively small park, Bandhavgarh is one of the smallest tiger reserves holding such a large population of tigers (49 according to the 1997 census). Set in rugged terrain with many hills, the forested area is interspersed with savannah like areas known as Chaurs. DAY 05 BANDHAVGARH – JABALPUR – NEW DELHI 197 KMS; 03H35M 23 To Index DAY 01 DELHI – JAIPUR 275 KMS; 06H Depart by surface for Jaipur. The city owes its name, foundation and its careful planning to the great warrior - astronomer Maharaja Jai Singh II. In 1727. With Mughal power on the wane, Jai Singh decided to move down from his hillside fortress at nearby Amber to a new site on the plains. He laid out the city, with its surrounding walls and six rectangular blocks, according to the principles of town planning set down in Shilpa Shastra, an ancient Hindu treatise on architecture. Introduction to Rajasthan Jaipur – Pushkar – Jodhpur – Ranakpur - Udaipur Arrive Jaipur and check-into your Hotel. In the afternoon, you will visit the city of Jaipur. Among the highlights to be seen while touring Jaipur include the City Palace, which is an overwhelming complex of exquisite palaces, gardens and courtyards, decorative art and carved doorways. The palace museum houses collections of rare manuscripts, armoury, costumes, carpets and miniature paintings. Walk to the adjacent Jantar Mantar or Astronomical Observatory made by the Maharaja of Jaipur, built in 1726 and is one of the five such astronomical wonders built by Sawai Jai Singh and makes accurate predictions even to this day. You will also have the opportunity to wander about the local markets. DAY 02 JAIPUR Breakfast at the Hotel. Morning excursion to the Amber Fort, just outside the city. En-route to Amber you will stop and see the `Palace of Winds’, otherwise known as Hawa Mahal. It is really an elaborate facade behind which the ladies of the court used to watch the daily goings on in the street below. It is extremely intricate in its pink sandstone carving. The cool wind blows through its facade of windows and latticed screens through which the queens of the court once viewed the streets of the city. An elephant (alternatively by jeeps) will spare you the trouble of reaching up to the fortress. Once on top, stroll through the sprawling complex of courtyards and halls. Many of the rooms have delightful wall paintings, with precious stones and mirrors inlaid in the walls. Most fascinating, perhaps, is the Sheesh Mahal (hall of mirrors) where a single lamplight is reflected in the many mirrors, lighting up the room. Rest of the day is at leisure for independent activities. Overnight at the Hotel. Overnight at the Hotel. 24 25 To Index DAY 03 JAIPUR – PUSHKAR 145 KMS; 02H30M Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart by surface for Pushkar. Upon arrival at Pushkar, check-into your Hotel. The village of Pushkar lies on the edge of the desert. At its heart is one of India’s most sacred lakes. There are 52 ghats around the lake, and numerous temples. The Brahma temple, especially, attracts pilgrims all year round. Apart from its religious significance, Pushkar is known for its Cattle and Camel fair held every year in the month of Kartik (October/ November), which attracts visitors in their thousands. You can also witness and participate in the evening prayer meetings in the temples. Being a religious town, alcohol and non-vegetarian food are taboo. In the late afternoon you will explore the city mainly visiting the Pushkar Lake Ghats and the Brahma Temple, which is one of its kind left in India today. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 04 PUSHKAR – JODHPUR 185 KMS; 03H15M Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart by surface for Jodhpur. 26 The old city of Jodhpur is surrounded by a wall 10km long, which was built about a century after the city was founded. From the fort you can clearly see where the old city ends and the new begins. The old city is fascinating jungle of winding streets of great interest to wander around. Eight gates lead out from the walled city. It’s one of the more interesting cities in India and those baggy-tight horse riding trousers, jodhpurs, took their name from this locale. Upon arrival at Jodhpur, check-into your Hotel. In the afternoon visit the Mehrangarh Fort (citadel of the Sun) that evokes the very spirit of the Rathores, the ruling local Rajput clan. Visit its various palaces with their delicate friezes and respective museums, displaying treasures of the royal family. Following visit of the fort, proceed on an exhilarating walk through the old city of Jodhpur. North of Mehrangarh Fort, and connected to it by road, Jaswant Thanda is a pillared marble memorial to the popular ruler Jaswant Singh II (1878-95), who purged Jodhpur of dacoits, initiated irrigation systems and boosted the economy. The cenotaphs of members of the royal family who died after Jaswant are close by his memorial. While the ones of those those who died before him have their memorial marked by chhatris at Mandor. This south-facing spot is also the best place from which to photograph the fort, looming above the sheer rocky Mehrangarh plateau. DAY 05 JODHPUR – RANAKPUR – UDAIPUR 255 KMS; 04H30M After buffet breakfast at the hotel, you will be driven from Jodhpur to Udaipur (255 kms/ 6.30 hrs) en-route visiting Ranakpur Jain Temples, an exceptionally beautiful excursion through the rugged, wooded hills of Rajasthan to the Jain Temples of Ranakpur in the Aravalli Valley, to see one of the best complexes of Jain religion which is particularly noted for the grandiose scale of its architecture and the highly decorated ceilings, walls and 1444 different pillars. The priests of the temples did all the temple designing and their generations are still continuing the work. Later continue your journey to Udaipur and upon arrival, check-in at your hotel. DAY 06 UDAIPUR After breakfast, visit the romantic city of Udaipur. Visit the City Palace which is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan; Jagdish temple, a fine Indo Aryan temple built in 1651; Sahelion ki Bari or Garden of the Maids of Honour, which is a small garden with its fountains, kiosks, marble elephants & lotus pool. DAY 07 UDAIPUR / DELHI Breakfast at the Hotel. Transfer to the Airport for your flight back home. Set on the shores of Lake Pichola and surrounded by hills, Udaipur grew in complete contrast to the harsh deserts of the rest of Rajasthan. From the late 16th century, peace brought about an era of renaissance in the arts and encouraged the building of beautiful palaces around the lake, culminating in the City Palace, one of the largest palace complexes in the world. The lake itself is a romantic setting surrounding the gleaming white Lake Palace and the Jag Mandir, a refuge of the rebel Mughal prince, Shah Jahan, soon to be the creator of the incomparable Taj Mahal. Arrive Udaipur and check-into your Hotel. 27 To Index Rajasthan Wildlife & Culture Tour Bharatpur – Ranthambhor – Jaipur – FathepurSikri - Agra DAY 01 DELHI – BHARATPUR 200 KMS; 04H Depart by surface for Bharatpur. Arrive Bharatpur and check-into your Hotel. Officially known as the Keoladeo National Park is probably the best-known birding location in India. The park is home to almost 400 species of birds. It is possible to see up to 180 species of birds in a day that include water birds, passerines, and over 25 species of raptors (birds of prey). The park is nothing but a network of shallow lakes (jheels) surrounded by forest, savannah and scrubland. Afternoon birding - this is one of the most well known bird sanctuaries in the world and you will be astounded by the variety of birds you see. Visit various parts of the sanctuary by cycle rickshaw, the quietest and most efficient way of getting around the sanctuary. Your rickshaw driver is a trained naturalist and will give you detailed commentary on the birds and habitat. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 02 BHARATPUR – RANTHAMBHOR 260 KMS; 04H30M After breakfast leave for step well at Abhaneri. Abhaneri is a small town village, situated at a distance of 95 28 km from Jaipur, on Jaipur-Agra road. The place is popular for the amazing ‘Baoris’ (step wells) and Harshat Mata Temple. In the present day, this city of brightness is in ruins; still it attracts tourists from across the globe. Abhaneri is prominent for ‘Baoris’, which are the unique invention of the natives for harvesting rain water. Amongst the other step wells, Chand Baori is the most popular one. This colossal step well is located in front of the Harshat Mata Temple. Chand Baori is one of India’s deepest and largest step wells. The huge tank with delicate carvings is certainly delightful to the eyes. Continue to Ranthambhor National Park. Located at the junction of the Aravalli and Vindhya hill range, this is one of the finest places to view animals, especially as they are used to being stared at here. The park covers an area of 400 sq km and if combined it with the area of Sawai Man Singh sanctuary area, it is around 500 sq km. Ranthambhor national park was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1957 and in 1974 it gained the protection of “Project Tiger”. It got its status of a National Park in 1981. Arrive Ranthambhor and check-into your Hotel. Lunch at the Hotel. Afternoon, jungle safari inside the park in a Canter on a seat-in-coach basis. 29 To Index Dinner and overnight at the Hotel. DAY 03 RANTHAMBHOR Early morning Jungle Safari inside Ranthambhor National Park in a Canter on a seat-in-coach basis. Breakfast at the Hotel. Lunch at the Hotel. Afternoon Jungle Safari within the National park. Dinner and overnight at the Hotel. DAY 04 RANTHAMBHOR – JAIPUR 155 KMS; 03H00M Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart by surface for Jaipur. Arrive Jaipur and check-into your Hotel. The city owes its name, foundation and its careful planning to the great warrior - astronomer Maharaja Jai Singh II. In 1727. With Mughal power on the wane, Jai Singh decided to move down from his hillside fortress at nearby Amber to a new site on the plains. He laid out the city, with its surrounding walls and six rectangular blocks, according to the principles of town planning set down in Shilpa Shastra, an ancient Hindu treatise on architecture. 30 In the afternoon, you will visit the city of Jaipur. Among the highlights to be seen while touring Jaipur include the City Palace. Walk to the adjacent Jantar Mantar or Astronomical Observatory made by the Maharaja of Jaipur, built in 1726 and is one of the five such astronomical wonders built by Sawai Jai Singh and makes accurate predictions even to this day. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 05 JAIPUR Breakfast at the Hotel. Morning excursion to the Amber Fort, just outside the city. En-route to Amber you will stop and see the `Palace of Winds’, otherwise known as Hawa Mahal. It is really an elaborate facade behind which the ladies of the court used to watch the daily goings on in the street below. It is extremely intricate in its pink sandstone carving. An elephant (alternatively by jeeps) will spare you the trouble of reaching up to the fortress. Most fascinating, perhaps, is the Sheesh Mahal (hall of mirrors) where a single lamplight is reflected in the many mirrors, lighting up the room. Rest of the day is at leisure for independent activities. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 06 JAIPUR – FATEHPUR SIKRI – AGRA 245 KMS; 04H30M After breakfast depart by surface for Fatehpur Sikri enroute Agra. Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted red sandstone city, built by the Great Mughal Emperor Akbar as his capital and palace in the late 16th century, was abandoned soon after it was built when the local wells went dry and it remains today in much the same condition that it was over 300 years ago. Continue drive to Agra. Arrive Agra and check-into your Hotel. Agra in terms of ambiance is still associated with its Mughal period. The Mughals besides being great rulers were also great builders and they preserved their best architectural wonders for Agra & its neighbourhood. It has many wonderful monuments and the Taj Mahal, the greatest of them all, is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture at its best. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight at the Hotel DAY 07 AGRA – DELHI 240 KMS; 03H15M After breakfast, take a morning tour of the city visiting the Red fort, which was built by Emperor Akbar in 1565, and additions were made up until the time of his grandson, Shah Jahan. Keeping the best for the last, visit the highlight of the day - The Taj Mahal, which was constructed by Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Construction of the Taj began in 1631 and was not completed until 1653. The Taj Mahal is everything that has been said about it and more. Taking 22 years and 20,000 men to build, the white marble was quarried 200 miles away and was transported to the site by a fleet of 1000 elephants. Built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as an expression of his love for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, in mid 17th century, the Taj Mahal is truly one of the wonders of the world. In the afternoon, leave for Delhi. Arrive Delhi. 31 To Index DAY 01 DELHI – MANDAWA 260KMS; 06H00M After breakfast, leave for Mandawa. Arrive Mandawa and check-into your Hotel. The Rajput ruler of Mandawa built a fort in 1755 to protect this trading outpost that fell in the ancient caravan routes from China to Middle East. The township that grew around the fort attracted a large community of traders, who settled here. When the caravan traffic ceased in the late 18th century, the traders created business empires in other parts of the country, but returned to Mandawa build palatial mansions in their hometown. This region came into prominence in the 14th century when a number of Muslim clans moved into the area and the towns of this region developed into important trading posts on the caravan routes emanating from the ports of Gujarat. This region is famous for painted havelis (houses) most of which date back from the 18th century. Golden Triangle Tour with Mandawa Mandawa – Jaipur – FathepurSikri - Agra This afternoon, you will explore this storybook town of Mandawa known for its colourful frescoes on a wide variety of subjects ranging from religious to the erotic; from copies of popular English prints to witty social satire rendered in the inimitable style of local artist. Every home here is adorned with gaily-painted murals that illuminate the arid landscape. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 02 MANDAWA – JAIPUR 170 KMS; 03H00M Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart by surface for Jaipur. The city owes its name, foundation and its careful planning to the great warrior - astronomer Maharaja Jai Singh II. In 1727 with Mughal power on the wane, Jai Singh decided to move down from his hillside fortress at nearby Amber to a new site on the plains. He laid out the city, with its surrounding walls and six rectangular blocks, according to the principles of town planning set down in Shilpa Shastra, an ancient Hindu treatise on architecture. Arrive Jaipur and check-in to your Hotel. In the afternoon, you will visit the city of Jaipur. Among the highlights to be seen while touring Jaipur include the City Palace, which is an overwhelming complex of exquisite palaces, gardens and courtyards, decorative art and carved doorways. The palace museum houses collections of rare manuscripts, armoury, costumes, carpets and miniature paintings. Walk to the adjacent Jantar Mantar or Astronomical Observatory made by the Maharaja of Jaipur, built in 1726 and is one of the five such astronomical wonders built by Sawai Jai Singh and makes accurate predictions even to this day. You will also have the opportunity to wander about the local markets. Overnight at the Hotel. 32 33 To Index DAY 03 JAIPUR Breakfast at the Hotel. Morning excursion to the Amber Fort, just outside the city. En-route to Amber you will stop and see the `Palace of Winds’, otherwise known as Hawa Mahal. It is really an elaborate facade behind which the ladies of the court used to watch the daily goings on in the street below. It is extremely intricate in its pink sandstone carving. The cool wind blows through its facade of windows and latticed screens through which the queens of the court once viewed the streets of the city. An elephant (alternatively by jeeps) will spare you the trouble of reaching up to the fortress. Once on top, stroll through the sprawling complex of courtyards and halls. Many of the rooms have delightful wall paintings, with precious stones and mirrors inlaid in the walls. Most fascinating, perhaps, is the Sheesh Mahal (hall of mirrors) where a single lamplight is reflected in the many mirrors, lighting up the room. Rest of the day is at leisure for independent activities. Overnight at the Hotel. 34 DAY 04 JAIPUR – FATEHPUR SIKRI – AGRA 245 KMS; 04H30M After breakfast depart by surface for Fatehpur Sikri enroute Agra. Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted red sandstone city, built by the Great Mughal Emperor Akbar as his capital and palace in the late 16th century, was abandoned soon after it was built when the local wells went dry and it remains today in much the same condition that it was over 300 years ago. It is complete with palaces and mosques and used to be a town larger than London when it was originally constructed. Now it is an extraordinary place to wander around with its buildings in near perfect condition. See the graceful buildings including the Jama Masjid, Tomb of Salim Chisti, Panch Mahal & other Palaces which are still preserved in its original glory. Continue drive to Agra. Arrive Agra and check-into your Hotel. Agra in terms of ambiance is still associated with its Mughal period. The Mughals besides being great rulers were also great builders and they preserved their best architectural wonders for Agra & its neighbourhood. It has many wonderful monuments and the Taj Mahal, the greatest of them all, is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture at its best. The massive but elegant Agra Fort, the magnificent Taj, are each unique and outstanding. Their architectural genius can also be seen in the forts, palaces and aesthetically laid out gardens - each one a silent witness to a grand style of a golden era. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 05 AGRA – DELHI 240 KMS; 03H15M more. Taking 22 years and 20,000 men to build, the white marble was quarried 200 miles away and was transported to the site by a fleet of 1000 elephants. Built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as an expression of his love for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, in mid 17th century, the Taj Mahal is truly one of the wonders of the world. Though the Taj appears to be amazingly perfect from almost any angle, it is the close-up marble inlay work, which is really astounding. You will have ample time to view and be mesmerized by this outstanding piece of architecture. In the afternoon, leave for Delhi. Arrive Delhi. After breakfast, take a morning tour of the city visiting the Red fort, which was built by Emperor Akbar in 1565, and additions were made up until the time of his grandson, Shah Jahan. It contains the hall of public and private audiences amongst many other beautiful structures; Itmad-ud-daulah, which was constructed by Nur Jahan between 1622 and 1628 and is very similar to the tomb she constructed for her husband, Jahangir, near Lahore in Pakistan. Keeping the best for the last, visit the highlight of the day - The Taj Mahal, which was constructed by Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Construction of the Taj began in 1631 and was not completed until 1653. The Taj Mahal is everything that has been said about it and 35 To Index DAY 01 DELHI – CHANDIGARH 245 KMS; 04H00M Depart by surface for Chandigarh. Modern Indian architecture witnessed a revolution when the Punjab government engaged Le Corbusier to design the new city of Chandigarh. Built in three stages, Corbusier divided the city into three sections. The ‘head’ consisted of political, bureaucratic and judicial buildings, the administrative parts of the city. The ‘body’ housed the university and residential complexes in the heart of the city. Hills, Mountains & Temples Tour Chandigarh – Amritsar – Simla - Rishikesh The ‘feet’ consisted of industrial sectors and the railway station. Apart from the initial layout of the city, Corbusier also designed several buildings in Chandigarh. The High Court building has a sloping roof, supported by concrete walls which allow air to pass through them. The Assembly is a squarish structure topped with a huge industrial chimney while the Secretariat is made up of hundreds of rooms with an airy exterior. Arrive Chandigarh and check-into your Hotel. Visit the Capitol Complex, consisting of the Secretariat, Legislative assembly and High Court in the northeast with the Shiwalik Hills as a backdrop. Cultural zone for education which also includes a museum and a campus university with institutions for engineering and architecture. 36 Also visit the Rock garden or garden of Nek Chand. The creation of Nek Chand, a road inspector in the capital city project, the garden comprises an extraordinary collection of stones from the nearby Shiwaliks and domestic rubbish transformed into sculptures. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 02 CHANDIGARH – AMRITSAR 230 KMS; 03H45M Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart by surface for Amritsar. Chak, Chak-Guru, Guru-ka-chak, Chak-Guru-RamDas, Ram-Das-Pura, were the names of Amritsar in those times. The temple on the banks of the pool of nectar was surrounded by the houses of the craftsmen from the towns of Patti, Kasur and Kalanur, who came to build the holy place. The only market was then called Guru-ka-bazaar, still known by that name, though more populous! Continue to visit the Jallianwala Bagh - the historic site where hundreds of innocent Indian men, women and children were massacred by British General Michael Dyer on April 13, 1919. 37 To Index DAY 03 AMRITSAR Breakfast at the Hotel. Visit the Golden Temple. The present causeway leading to the Hari Mandir was then designed, with the rectangular shape of the circumambulatory walk ending at the gateway, from which the path to Reality began. This afternoon visit the Wagah border to witness the Flag Ceremony, the closing of the border between India and Pakistan. A patriotic but fun filled ceremony. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 04 AMRITSAR – SHIMLA 300 KMS; 05H15M Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart by surface for Shimla. Shimla is full of tourist attractions that are worth visiting. They may intrigue some with their rich historical legacy and for some, they are the perfect places to indulge in some good photography. Shimla is a photographer’s paradise and you will find some of the most picture perfect shots over here. One place that you cannot ignore is definitely the Mall Road in Shimla. Located at the heart of the town, the Mall Road in 38 Shimla is one of the busiest commercial areas of this place. All colonial structures are located on the Mall Road. The Mall Road also has all major hotels, restaurants and recreation centres of Shimla. The Mall Road has many famous restaurants that specialize in not just local cuisines but also delicacies from nearby places. Since there are no vehicles allowed in the Mall, you don’t quite have to worry about watching out for the traffic. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 05 SHIMLA Breakfast at the Hotel. Full day sightseeing the city. You will visit the Viceregal Lodge located at the top of Observatory Hills and was constructed by the British. This brilliant building served as the residence of the Viceroy, Lord Dufferin. It was completed by the year 1888 and it is still well maintained. This Lodge has now been transformed into the famous Institute of Advanced Studies and the six storey building still stands in all its splendour. The lodge has famous gardens and perfectly manicured lawns. The place is a very famous tourist attraction and must be visited. Located in the heart of Shimla is the famous tourist attraction known as The Ridge. The Ridge is the hub of all cultural activities of Shimla. It is situated along the Mall Road, which is the famous shopping centre of Shimla. Most major places of Shimla like Lakkar Bazaar, Mall, Scandal Point, Jakhoo hill, etc. are connected through the Ridge. The main water supply of Shimla comes from the huge water reservoir that is located in the Ridge. The most famous landmark of the Ridge is the Christ Church. This beautiful building is constructed in Neo-Gothic style of architecture. It is a famous tourist attraction of Shimla and should be visited when you come to Shimla. A thickly wooded forest, Glenn is a famous picnic spot that is located around 4 kilometres from the centre of Shimla. The thick cover of the deodar trees makes this place a calm and tranquil locale. It used to be known as the playground of Shimla where racing, cricket and polo used to be the favourite pastime of the British. Situated at a height of 2155 meters, the Prospect hill is a great place to visit and unwind in the natural surroundings. It is also famous for a hilltop temple dedicated to Kamna Devi. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 06 SHIMLA – RISHIKESH 270 KMS; 05H30M After breakfast, proceed to Rishikesh - The town of Ashrams and Temples, Ghats and Pilgrims, Mountains and the holy Ganges. Arrive Rishikesh& check-into your Hotel. Afternoon city tour of Rishikesh. In the evening, visit the banks of river Ganges to encounter evening life as well as special Arti “The Prayer dedicated to Goddess Ganges”. When the global orange sun suspended, waits low amid the red/ yellow streaked horizon, then all these combine to give this town a very special evening. The temple bells roar, priests chant mantras. Immersed in sublimation stand the pilgrims. Cupped leaves, with saffron marigold petals and a small candle flame, flickering, ride the current of water of wisdom. Suddenly the sky darkens, spreading a blanket of stillness. Everything stops, except the sound of current, which has just sunk the tiny flames of cupped leaves, few minutes back. After experiencing above trace your steps back to the hotel. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 07 RISHIKESH – DELHI 240 KMS; 04H30M Breakfast at the Hotel. Transfer by surface for Delhi. Arrive Delhi. 39 To Index DAY 01 DELHI / BAGDOGRA – DARJEELING 70 KMS; 03H Transfer to the Airport for your flight to Bagdogra – the gateway to Darjeeling and the other destinations in West Bengal and Sikkim. Met upon arrival at the Bagdogra Airport, assisted and transferred to your Hotel at Darjeeling. Orchids & Monasteries Darjeeling – Pelling – Gangtok – Kalimpong Often called the Queen of the Himalayas, Darjeeling affords unparalleled view of the snow capped Everest, Kabru, Kanchenjunga, Jannu and other peaks as they slowly emerge from slumber to start a new day. The snow-clad Kanchenjunga ranges, which turn orange-gold in the early morning sun, provide an unforgettable sight. Dinner and overnight at the Hotel. DAY 02 DARJEELING Early morning visit to the Tiger Hill to witness the magnificent sunrise on the Mt. Kanchenjunga. On the way back visit the Ghoom Monastery, the holiest monastery in Darjeeling and Batasia Loop. Return to hotel on the World famous and a UNESCO Heritage Site, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) or simply the ‘Toy Train’. Breakfast at the Hotel. 40 Rest of the morning is at leisure for you to explore the Chowrasta, a wide promenade atop a ridge lined with shops and restaurants which is taken to be the heart of the town. Here people gather to chat, spend time basking in the sun or just to snatch a moment of peace. The Brabourne Park is attached to the Chowrasta and now features a musical fountain. This place is free from vehicular movements from where one can watch the scenic beauty of the mountain range and take walking at the Darjeeling Mall. Afternoon sightseeing tour of the city visiting The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park was established on the 14th of August, 1958, the zoo was dedicated to the memory of Padmaja Naidu, former Governor of West Bengal on the 21st November, 1975. Considered as one of the best zoos in the country, it is the only centre that breeds the Tibetan wolf in captivity. Breeding programmes for the endangered red panda, snow leopard and the Siberian tiger are also carried out at PNHZP. The zoo is open on all days except on Thursdays and other national holidays. Also visit The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute was set up following the successful ascent of the Mount Everest-the highest peak in the world by the local hero Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edumund Hillary on 28 May 1953. Later, visit the oldest Botanical Garden named as Lloyd Botanical Garden with varieties of flora and is famous for two living fossils. Dinner and overnight at the Hotel. 41 To Index DAY 03 DARJEELING – PELLING 75 KMS; 04H00M After breakfast, you will be driven to Pelling, a journey of approximately 4 hours through the beautiful countryside, with a border crossing into Sikkim. Upon arrival, proceed for check-in at your hotel. In the afternoon, you will visit the awe-inspiring Pemayangtse Monastery the second oldest of its kind in Sikkim. The walls and ceiling of the large prayer hall have numerous thangkas and wall paintings. You will also visit the Kheopalry Lake nearby. Dinner and overnight at the Hotel. DAY 04 PELLING – GANGTOK 120 KMS; 04H After breakfast, leave for Gangtok. Arrive Gangtok and check-into your Hotel. Gangtok is Sikkim’s largest city. It served as the royal administrative seat of the Kingdom of Sikkim from 1894 to 1975. Now as the state capital it retains a royal character. The Chogyal’s durbar (king’s palace) crowns the ridge, naturally facing Kanchenjunga, and the yellow roof of the Tsuklakhang or Royal Chapel gleams from 42 far across the valley. Sikkim is world renowned for its orchids with almost 1000 species in and around Sikkim, Darjeeling and Kalimpong. The best time to see orchids is from the second week of April, extending into late May and June at the higher elevations. Rhododendrons are another of the most celebrated of this amazing potpourri of flora. During April-May, yellow and lavender shaded hillsides stretch as far as the eye can see, and canopies of rose, crimson and ivory crown the misty forests. Afternoon, free for shopping or other individual activities. Dinner and overnight at the Hotel. DAY 05 GANGTOK Breakfast at the Hotel. Mor ning sightseeing tour wherein you will be driven to Rumtek Monastery, the seat of the Karmapa Rimpoche, head of the Karmapa sub-sect of the Kargyudpa order of Tibetan Buddhism. The new four-level gompa was designed as a replica of the Kargyudpa’s head monastery of Tolung in Tibet. A perfect symbol of the confluence of the past and present is Gangtok - the capital of Sikkim. Built on the flank of a ridge, Gangtok is at 5500 feet above sea level. The town’s unique ambience derives from the happy blend of tradition and modernity. Later proceed to visit the Enchey Monastery – an important seat of the Nyingmapa order, the Enchey Monastery is built on the site blessed by Lama Druptok Karpo, a tantric master known for his power of flying. Your visits of the day ends with the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology (closed on Sundays). The most prestigious of its kind in India, this Buddhist institute is a treasure of vast collection of rare Lepcha, Tibetan & Sanskrit manuscripts, statues and rare thanks (tapestries used in Buddhist liturgy). It is over 200 Buddhist icons and other prized objects of art. Today it is a renowned worldwide centre for Buddhist philosophy and religion. Also visit the Tashi View Point. The world third highest peak is visible from Gangtok. Although it is visible from many parts of the town, Tashi View Point is the most apt spot for viewing the famous Kanchenjunga Mountain. Dinner and overnight at the Hotel. DAY 06 GANGTOK – KALIMPONG 75 KMS; 01H30M Upon arrival at Kalimpong, check-into your Hotel. Kalimpong, once the headquarter of the Bhutanese Governor. A political hot potato tossed between neighbouring Sikkim, Bhutan, Nepal and India, Kalimpong was for the last century everybody’s trophy, but more for its strategic value as a prosperous trade post than for its natural resources and pretty face. The town straddles a northeasterly ridge flanked by two rivers. Kalimpong has a temperate climate throughout the year with not so heavy a monsoon. The climatic condition is ideal for the cultivation of horticultural plants and, due to this, there are many flower nurseries here. Rest of the day is at leisure and opportunities exist to visit several flower nurseries. Dinner and overnight at the Hotel. DAY 07 KALIMPONG – BAGDOGRA / DELHI 75 KMS; 04H Breakfast at the Hotel. Transfer to the Bagdogra Airport for your flight back home. Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart by surface for Kalimpong. 43 To Index DAY 01 DELHI / SRINAGAR Transfer to the Delhi Airport for your flight to Srinagar. Met upon arrival at Srinagar, assisted and transferred to your Houseboat. Srinagar is the summer capital of the Indian State of Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated in the Kashmir Valley and lies on the banks of the Jhelum River, a tributary of the Indus. The city is famous for its gardens, lakes and houseboats. Lunch on the Houseboat. Enjoy a shikara ride in the evening. Enchanting Kashmir Srinagar – Gulmarg – Sonmarg – Pahalgam - Srinagar A shikara ride is one of the most soothing, relaxing aspects of a holiday in Kashmir. Shikaras are long boats which crowd the Srinagar lakes. They are used for getting back and forth from the houseboats or for longer tours. It is worth to take a pleasure ride around the lake in shikara. Shikara is a Gondola type light rowing boat. The two hour boat ride takes tourists on a relaxing sightseeing tour of interior parts of the calm and placid waters of Dal Lake Dinner and overnight on board the Houseboat. 44 DAY 02 SRINAGAR – GULMARG – SRINAGAR Breakfast on board the Houseboat. Morning excursion to the holy shrine of the Shankracharya. Set atop the hill called Takht-e-Suleiman, it can also be accessed via a 5 km climb from Nehru Park on a metalled road. It is said that Adi Shankaracharya (788-820 AD) lived, meditated and did penance here to review Hinduism which had been eclipsed by Buddhism. He worshipped the Shiva Lingam, which is still found in the Sanctum Sanctorum. Information boards on the spot tells, that Adi Shankaracharya “attained spiritual knowledge” at this particular place and after that went out and formed the four Hindu schools of Advaita, the philosophy of nondualism. Later, drive out the 50 kilometres to Gulmarg. Gulmarg has been named the “Switzerland of India”, as it is remarkably similar to this European country with heavy snow clad mountains and tall pine trees. Gulmarg is a tourist’s paradise. It literally means the “flower filled meadow”, and it was the favourite haunt of Emperor Jahangir. It is a broad bowl shaped meadow which offers a panoramic view across the valley, the Wular Lake and the snow capped ridges beyond. For the visitors, Gulmarg offers a range of facilities like golf courses, race courses, ski lifts, cable cars etc. During winters, Gulmarg is India’s 45 To Index premier skiing resort. Pony rides along the forested slopes with snow all around, are memorable experiences. One can walk across to the numerous meadows in and around Gulmarg, which contain small lakes and tiny hamlets scattered all over. Besides, there are ample camping grounds right in the lap of nature. Free to explore this tiny resort town on your own. Opportunity exists for you to take a much-touted Gondola (cable car) Ride. The ride is divided into two sections – Gulmarg to Kongdori and Kongdori to Apherwat. The Gondola passes over the pine forests, starting from a height of 2690 m above sea level and rise up to 3090 m while reaching Kongdoor. The majestic view of the lush green hilly terrains and the panoramic views of the picturesque surroundings offer the greatest experience for a tourist while enjoying the cable car ride. The ride also passes by the scenic spot of Khilanmarg - a meadow with a carpet of colourful flowers. Picnic Lunch served at your convenience. Return to Srinagar and to your Houseboat. Dinner and overnight on board the Houseboat. 46 DAY 03 SRINAGAR – SONMARG – SRINAGAR Breakfast on board the Houseboat. Transfer to Sonmarg. Situated 80 kilometres from Srinagar, at an elevation of 2740 meters is the lovely meadow of Sonmarg or the ‘Meadow of Gold’. This is the last major town before Ladakh. Sonmarg offers some of the best camping sites in the valley which are near the mouth of the glacial valley. Fishing can be enjoyed in the river at Sonmarg. Sonmarg is the access point for the Zojila Pass, which is about two and a half miles from Baltal, the last village in Kashmir. The Amarnath cave and Kolahoi glacier are also within reach. The best time to visit Sonmarg is during spring, when the meadows are in full bloom and the weather is mild. Day free to enjoy tobogganing or pony rides. Picnic Lunch served at your convenience. Return to Srinagar and to your Houseboat. Dinner and overnight on board the Houseboat. DAY 04 SRINAGAR – PAHALGAM Breakfast on board the Houseboat. Thereafter, drive around three hours to Pahalgam (The valley of shepherds), located just about 97 kilometres away. Enroute, visit the saffron fields of Pampore and Awantipura ruins (1100 years old temple of Lord Vishnu built by the King Awantivarman), and enjoy the beautiful countryside through the pine forests. Arrive Pahalgam and check-into your Hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy the Lidder River and walk along the pony trails for a magnificent view of the mountains. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 05 PAHALGAM Breakfast at the Hotel. Full day at leisure. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 06 PAHALGAM – SRINAGAR / DELHI Breakfast at the Hotel. Return drive to Srinagar. Upon arrival at Srinagar, visit the fames Mughal Gardens. With terraced lawns, cascading fountains, paint-box-bright flowerbeds with the panorama of the Dal in front of them - the three Mughal Gardens of Chasme Shahi, Nishat and Shalimar are the Mughal Emperors’ concept of paradise and are today very popular places for picnics and excursions. Visit the Shalimar Bagh, built by Emperor Jahangir for his wife Nur Jehan, Shalimar, 15 kms from the TRC, is a beautiful garden with sweeping vistas over gardens and lakes, and shallow terraces. Further, visit the Nishat Bagh situated on the banks of the Dal Lake, with the Zabarwan Mountains as its backdrop, (11 km. from TRC), this ‘garden of bliss’ commands a magnificent view of the lake and the snow capped Pir Panjal mountain range which stands far away to the west of the valley. Nishat was designed in 1633 AD by Asaf Khan, brother of Nur Jehan. Finally, enjoy the Chashme Shahi, a tastefully laid garden in terraces, which commands a magnificent view of the Dal Lake below and surrounding mountain ranges. The cool water of the spring is highly refreshing and digestive. The original garden was laid out by Shah Jehan in 1632 AD. Transfer to the Srinagar Airport for the flight back home. 47 To Index DAY 01 CHENNAI / PORT BLAIR Early Morning, Board your flight for Port Blair Andaman has evolved as a hot tourist destination over the years after a long dark period, when this place was mostly used for captivating the prisoners and trading purpose. A number of tour operating companies organize sightseeing tours by providing exciting travel packages. Alluring Andamans Portblair-Havelock Island Based in Port Blair (Andaman & Nicobar Islands), Andaman Sea Hawk Tours & Travels is a reputed and dynamic company, which provides exciting services for Andaman Sightseeing Tour. We organize hassle free and comfortable sightseeing tours for a number of exotic destinations in Andaman and Nicobar Islands such as Port Blair, Cellular Jail, Ross Island, Carbyn’s Cove Beach, Chidiya Tapu, Mount Harriet, Red Skin Island, Chatham Saw Mill and a number of other islands and beaches. Met upon arrival at the Airport, assisted and transferred to your Hotel. Visit the Corbyn’s Cove Beach in the afternoon. The 48 Corbyn’s Cove, is a serene and unspoiled soft sandy beach, set in picturesque background of lush green coconut palms and pleasant blue sea. The main attractions of this beach are the inviting water sports activities like surfing, scuba diving and boating. The Corbyn’s Cove beach, situated 8 kms from the City centre is the closest Beach from the city. This coconut- palm fringed beach, is ideal for swimming, surfing and sun bathing. Later witness the Light &Sound show at Cellular Jailthe saga of countless martyrs of Indian independence struggle who laid down their lives. The Cellular Jail was completed in the year 1906 and acquired the name ‘Cellular’ because of its solitary confinement cells. Here, the prisoners were kept and tortured during the Indian national freedom struggle. The jail is now a historical monument and located in Port Blair. Cellular jail or National Memorial is thus a mute witness to the unfathomable amount of tortures meted out to the prisoners and a huge number of people come here every year to pay tribute to these great souls. Overnight at the Hotel. 49 To Index DAY 02 PORT BLAIR - HAVELOCK Breakfast at the Hotel. Enjoy a short cruise to visit the Ross Island nearby. The small island with its treasure of ruins in it becomes the hot tourists spot in the territory. While visiting to this island, we desire to know more and more about Ross Island. Before the independence, the island is the seat of British power and capital of these Andaman Islands from 1858 until 1941 and also the base for the British Administrator of the penal colony in Port Blair In 1941, the Japanese converted the site into POW camp, and built war installations, remnants of which can still be seen. It now stands as a ruin of the bygone days with the old structure almost in debris and the few signs of its colonial glory, such as the Chief Commissioner’s house and the Anglican Church, are dilapidated and overgrown. A small museum named ‘Smritika’ holds photographs and the other antiques of the British related to these islands. Thereafter, embark on the MV Makruzz for sailing to the Havelock Island. An independent Island which is around 38 Kms from Port Blair, which provides idyllic resort in the lap of virgin beach and unpolluted environment. The Radha Nagar Beach is one of the popular beaches of the island and also 50 recorded the seventh among the best beaches in Asia. The dolphins and turtles can be spotted from the long stretches of white sand. Arrive Havelock Island and check-into your Hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. Dinner and overnight at the Hotel DAY 03 HAVELOCK Breakfast at the Hotel. One may visit the Elephant Beach and indulge in a session of Snorkelling. Or, one may even enjoy the underwater beauty through a glass bottom boat instead of Snorkelling. Return to hotel in the afternoon. Dinner and overnight at Hotel. DAY 04 HAVELOCK – PORT BLAIR Breakfast at the Hotel. From here transfer to jetty to board the cruise for Port Blair. Upon arrival at Port Blair, transferred to your Hotel Later, visit the Anthropological Museum, Naval Fisheries and Samudrika (subject to Ferry schedule and time permitting) Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 05 PORT BLAIR Breakfast at the Hotel. Morning trip to the Chatham Saw Mills situated on an Island of the same name. Chatham A small island, connected to Port Blair by a bridge. It is famous for its saw mill, considered to be one of the oldest and the largest in Asia operating by the department of Forest & Environment and a big store house for different varieties of wood including Marble, Padauk, Gurjan and Satin wood.. The mill was built by the British in 1836. The island also has the second largest wharf in the Andamans. Rest of day is at leisure. Overnight at the Hotel. DAY 06 PORT BLAIR / CHENNAI Breakfast at the Hotel. Transfer to the Airport for the flight back home. 51 To Index WEEKEND GETAWAYS 53 To Index Houseboat Day 01 Cochin – Alleppey – Kumarakom 100 Kms; 02H30M Transfer from Kochi to Alleppey and onto the jetty where you will embark on a Houseboat. Kettuvallam, as it is called, offers a panoramic view of one of the most picturesque aspects of the God’s Own Country. ex Kochi One can cruise in it during the day through the palm-fringed backwaters and spending a night in waxing moonlights. A backwater comprises of a unique web of rivers, lakes, bays, lagoons and canals extending into the villages and town of the city. Lunch and dinner served on the Houseboat. Overnight on board the Houseboat. Day 02 Alleppey – Kochi 65 Kms; 01H35M Breakfast on board the Houseboat. Disembark from the Houseboat. Transfer to Kochi. Arrive Kochi. 54 Munnar Day 01 Kochi – Munnar 130 Kms; 03H30M Depart by surface for Munnar. Arrive Munnar and check-into your Hotel. Munnar, a nature-lover’s paradise, snuggling in the green and serene Kannan Devan Hills is a quiet and a restful resort. Panoramic views of low-flying clouds and mist filled valleys make it a pretty little heaven with a cool bracing climate. It was opened up out of virgin forests a century ago by pioneering planters. Within its remote and elderly churches - gracious, stonestructures with ancient chandeliers and rosewood pews. A little beyond lies Anaimudi, South India’s highest peak. In the vicinity is the Eravikulam National Park. Here you can have a glimpse of a Gaur, Langur, Lion-tailed macaque, and Elephants roaming in herds. Rest of the day is at leisure to soak in the surroundings of lush mountains and tea, coffee & cardamom plantation. Overnight at the Hotel. 55 To Index Day 02 Munnar Breakfast at the Hotel. Full day sightseeing tour of this hill station A very popular tourist attraction in Munnar, Tata Tea Museum is located around 2 km from Munnar in Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea. The museum showcases various antiquities and the most famous among them is the burial urn excavated from the vicinity of Periakanal Estate, dating back to 2nd century. Anamudi Peak lies to the interior of the Eravikulam National Park. This national park is at a peak of 2695 m, and it towers the sanctuary in grandiose pride. This hill is opulent in various kinds of flora and fauna and is very well known for possessing endangered animals. Anamudi peak shelters many animals as it resembles the original abode for the animals with its dense forests. The scenic waterfall of Atukkad lies at a distance of about 2 km from Munnar town. Amidst lush green forest and hills, this waterfall is a worth visiting spot in Munnar. With fewer crowds, it is an ideal place for romantic escapes and picnics. 56 Located around 21 km from Munnar, this arch dam with its natural surroundings is a major attraction of Munnar. From the top of the Dam, tourists can have a panoramic view of the natural greens. Adjoining to the Dam is the beautiful lake with boating facilities. T Mattupetty dam is approximately 13 km from Munnar in Kerala. It is situated at an altitude of 1700m above the sea level and is highly famous for the Indo-Swiss live stock projects. The dam is the perfect spot to see hundred ranges of high yielding cattle nurtured. Close to the Dam is a beautiful lake, which is a well known tourist spot in the area. It offers boating facilities. The tourists are permitted to see three cattle sheds at the farm out of the eleven cattle sheds. The Mattupetty dam as well as the lake are at close proximity from the farm and is a very charming picnic spot. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 Munnar – Kohi 130 Kms; 03H30M Breakfast at the Hotel. Transfer to Kochi. Arrive Kochi. Thekkady Day 01 Kochi – Thekkady 165Kms; 03H45M Depart for Thekkady. Upon arrival at Thekkady, check-into your Hotel. Set in the heart of the Cardamom Hills of Kerala the Periyar National Park and T iger Reserve, offers a rare opportunity to enjoy South India’s wild life and beauty. The park has a picturesque lake at the heart of the sanctuary. Herds of elephant and sambar, gaur and wild pigs and wander down to the lakeside and can be observed from the launches that cruise the lake. Day 02 Thekkady After breakfast, leave for a spice plantation visit where one can see the cultivation of a whole range of spices like pepper, cardamom, cloves, turmeric, vanilla, all spice cinnamon etc. This is followed by a visit to spice shops which are found in the small town of Kumily just 01 km from the hotels. Enjoy an Elephant ride here. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 Thekkady – Kochi 165Kms; 03H45M After breakfast at the Hotel you will be driven to Kochi. Arrive Kochi. Periyar also harbours the leopard, wild dog, barking deer and mouse deer. On the rocky outcrops along the lake, monitor lizards can be seen basking in the sun. OPTIONAL: In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on the Periyar Lake to view the wildlife. Overnight at the Hotel. 57 To Index Kodaikanal Day 01 Coimbatore – Kodaikanal 170 Kms Depart by surface for Kodaikanal. Kodaikanal, “The Gift of the Forest”, is often referred to as the “Princess of Hill stations” and has a long history as a retreat and popular tourist destination. Upon arrival at Kodaikanal, check-into your Hotel. Rest of the morning is at leisure. Ex Coimbatore Caves apart from Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, situated at 2,343 metres, the highest location near Kodai. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 Kodaikanal – Coimbatore 170 Kms Breakfast at the Hotel. Continue your journey to Coimbatore. Arrive Coimbatore. In the afternoon, visit the Kodaikanal Lake, an artificial, roughly star-shaped 60 acres lake built in 1863. The 5-kilometre path that skirts the periphery of this lovely lake is a favourite walk for the locals and tourists alike. You may want to visit the Bryant Park, just east of the lake. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 02 Kodaikanal Breakfast at the Hotel. Full day sightseeing of this hill town. Visit the Berijam Lake. You can also spot deer, panthers and snakes in this area. Later visit the Pillar Rocks and Guna 58 59 To Index Puducherry with Gingee Fort Day 01 Chennai – Puducherry 160 Kms Transfer by surface to Puducherry. Experience French heritage in India. On arrival, check into your hotel. Overnight in Puducherry. ex Chennai Day 02 Puducherry Breakfast at the Hotel. You may like to visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Auroville, Museum, Botanical Garden, and the Churches. The rest of the evening is at leisure. Overnight in Puducherry. Day 03 Puducherry – Gingee Fort - Chennai 220 Kms Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart from Puducherry to the Gingee Fort enroute to Chennai. Gingee Fort is a landmark in fort architecture. Tharangambadi with Chidambaram Day 01 Chennai – Tharangambadi 275 Kms Depart by surface for Tharangambadi. Arrive Tharangambadi and check-into your Hotel. An exquisite playpen of Danish aspirations in India, Tharangambadi, as the place is known in native Tamil, literally means, “The land of the singing waves”. Tranquebar, as it was known formerly has a landscape that transports the wandering traveller to a spirit of a different time. Later, in the afternoon visit Fort Dansborg, a 17th century Danish fort facing the coast. Currently a museum, it houses a number of Hindu sculptures. Which have been salvaged from the crumbling shore temple, replica of the treaty signed between the Nayak ruler and the King of Denmark and other relics of the bygone Danish settlement. Overnight at the Hotel. Continue your journey to Chennai. Arrive Chennai. 60 61 To Index Day 02 Tharangambadi Breakfast at the Hotel. Morning visit The Zion Church with its well-polished brass plaques on the wall. Consecrated in 1701, it is the oldest protestant Church in India. Next to the Zion Church, is Bartholomäus Ziegenbalg’s house. You will also see the Masilamani Nathar temple on the beach. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 Tharangambadi – Chidambaram - Chennai 275 Kms Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart for Chidambaram by surface enroute to Chennai. Chidambaram is known for the Thillai Nataraja Temple, and the annual chariot festival held in the month of April. The temple complex is spread over an area of 40 acres in the heart of the city. Continue your journey to Chennai. Arrive Chennai. 62 Thiruvannamalai with Gingee Fort Day 01 Chennai – Thiruvannamalai 185 Kms Depart by surface for Thiruvannamalai. Arrive Thiruvannamalai and check-into your Hotel. Located on the foothills of Annamalai hills, Thiruvannamalai a world renowned temple town in Tamilnadu and is synonymous to Deepam (fire). Here Shiva (Arunachaleswar) is worshipped in the form of fire. This holy town has been ruled by the Pallavas, the Medieval Cholas, the Later Cholas, Hoysalas, the Vijayanagar Empire, the Carnatic kingdom, Tipu Sultan, and the British. It served as the capital city of the Hoysalas. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 02 Thiruvannamalai Breakfast at the Hotel. In the morning visit The Ashram of the Saint Ramana Maharishi on the Arunachala Hill, located on the western side of this town. Also visit Tirumalai, an ancient Jain temple complex in the outskirts of Tirvannamalai. It houses three Jain caves, four Jain temples and a 16 feet high sculpture of Neminatha dating to the 12th century and the tallest Jain image in Tamil Nadu. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 Thiruvannamalai – Gingee Fort-Chennai 190 Kms Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart from Thiruvannamalai to the Gingee Fort enroute to Chennai. Though Tamil Nadu is famous for its temple architecture Gingee Fort here is a landmark in fort architecture. Continue your journey to Chennai. Arrive Chennai. Tirupati & Srikalahasti Day 01 Chennai – Tirupati 140 Kms Depart by surface for Tirupati. Upon arrival, check-into your Hotel. Tirupati is a major pilgrimage and cultural city in the Chittoor district of India. In the afternoon, visit the famous Venkateswara Swamy Temple. Rest of the evening is at leisure. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 02 Tirupati – Srikalahasti – Chennai 160 Kms Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart by surface for the holy town of Srikalahasti en route to Chennai. Srikalahasti is a holy town and a municipality near Tirupati in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is located on the banks of the river Swarnamukhi.Continue your journey to Chennai. Arrive Chennai. 63 To Index Day 01 Hassan Bangalore – Shravanabelagola - Hassan 196 kms Shravanbelagola is an important Jain pilgrim centre. Arrive Hassan and check-into the Hotel. Overnight at the Hotel. ex Bangalore Hassan – Belur – Halebid – Hassan 85 kms Breakfast at the Hotel. Full day excursion to Belur and Halebid. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 Hassan – Koravangala - Bangalore 195 kms Breakfast at the Hotel. Visit the three Temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Arrive Bangalore. 64 Day 01 Bangalore – Mudumalai National Park 240 kms Transfer from Bangalore to the Mudumalai National Park. Transfer from Bangalore to Hassan via Shravanabelagola. Day 02 Mudumalai The Mudumalai National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is also a declared Tiger Reserve. Upon arrival at Mudumalai, check-into the Hotel. Afternoon safari inside the Park for wildlife viewing. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 02 Mudumalai National Park Breakfast at the Hotel. Morning safari inside the Park. It is home to several endangered & vulnerable species. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 Mudumalai Park – Bangalore 240 kms Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart by surface for Bangalore. Arrive Bangalore. 65 To Index Day 01 Mysore Bangalore – Somnathpur – Srirangapatnam – Mysore 200 kms Transfer from Bangalore to Mysore via Somnathpur and Srirangapatna. Somnathpur is a tiny village on the banks of the Kaveri. The temple, was built by Somnath. Arrive Mysore and check-into the Hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure for independent activities. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 02 Mysore Breakfast at the Hotel. Morning excursion will take you to Chamundi Temple. In afternoon, visit Mysore Palace. In evening see Brindavan Gardens. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 Mysore – Bangalore 145 kms Breakfast at the Hotel. Transfer by surface from Mysore to Bangalore. 66 Ootacamund Day 01 Bangalore – Ootacamund 265 kms Transfer by surface from Bangalore to Ootacamund, popularly known as Ooty. Ooty is situated in the Nilgiri Mountains, known for tea and coffee, has earned the name, Queen of Hill Stations. Arrive Ooty and check-into the Hotel. Later in the afternoon revel in the beauty of stunning lake. You can also visit the graveyard of St Thomas’s Church, built in 1870. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 02 Ootacamund Breakfast at the Hotel. In the morning visit the Government Botanical Gardens, laid out in 1847. Later, also visit St Stephen’s Church, built in 1829. Rest of the day is at leisure for independent activities. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 OotY - Coonoor – Bangalore 305 kms Breakfast at the Hotel. Transfer to Ooty to take ‘Toy Train’ up to Coonoor. The Toy Train departs Ooty at 09:15 hrs and chugs into Coonoor at 10:25 hrs. Upon arrival at Coonoor, meet your car and embark on a sightseeing tour of this hill station. Depart Coonoor for Bangalore. Arrive Bangalore. Day 01 Yelagiri Bangalore – Yelagiri 160 kms Transfer by surface from Bangalore to Yelagiri. Upon arrival at Yelagiri, check-into the Hotel. Yelagiri is a small hill station located in between the towns of Vaniyambadi & Jolarpettai. It dates back to the colonial days. Rest of the day is at leisure. Opportunities exist for you to visit Punganoor Lake-cumPark and Jalagamparai Falls (on the other side of the hill). Overnight at the Hotel. Day 02 Yelagiri – Bangalore 160 kms Breakfast at the Hotel. Morning is at leisure. One may visit the Swami Malai Hills where trekking is an attraction. Depart by surface for Bangalore. Arrive Bangalore. The fossil of a tree trunk believed to be 20 million years old. 67 To Index Ajanta & Ellora Day 01 Mumbai – Aurangabad 17617 Tapovan Express – 06:10/13:15 Board your train at the Chatrapati Shivaji Terminus for Aurangabad. Met upon arrival at the Aurangabad Railway Station, assisted and transferred to your Hotel. Ex Mumbai Afternoon sightseeing tour of the city visiting the Bibi-kaMaqbara and the Panchakki. Known as the Poor Man’s Taj Mahal, the Bibi-ka-Maqbara standing pretty amidst ponds, streams and fountains, is almost a replica of the magnificent Taj Mahal. The monument was a tribute to Aurangzeb’s wife, by her son, Prince Azam Shah and offers a picturesque view of the region Panchakki, an engineering marvel of the medieval age, it was built by Malik Amba, and was used to grind flour for pilgrims. The peculiarity of this piece of engineering is the fact that it was powered by energy generated by water drawn from a spring on a mountain. The gardens and fish tanks here are laid in the memory of a Sufi-saint who was buried here. Overnight at the Hotel. 68 Day 02 Aurangabad Breakfast at the Hotel. Full day excursion to the Ajanta caves, a 105 kms away. Listed amongst World Heritage sites, these caves are a fine example of Buddhist architecture. These caves used to serve as retreats for monks who taught and practiced Buddhism. Return to Aurangabad and to your Hotel for an overnight stay. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 Aurangabad – Mumbai 17618 Tapovan Express – 14:35/22:05 Breakfast at the Hotel. Morning excursion to the Ellora Caves situated around 30 kms away from Aurangabad. Another major attraction around Aurangabad, the caves have been carved out of the Charanandri Hills. There are 34 caves which contain Chaityas, monasteries and Hindu and Jain temples. The most imposing amongst these is the Kailasha Temple, which is also counted among the largest single monolithic structures in the world. Return to Aurangabad and transfer to the Railway Station for your train back home. Arrive Mumbai. 69 To Index Darjeeling Day 01 Kolkata - New Jalpaiguri – Darjeeling 12343 Darjeeling Mail – 22:05/08:00 + Surface Board the train to New Jalpaiguri. Day 02 Calcutta ExExKolkata 70 New Jalpaiguri Arrive New Jalpaiguri and transferred to your Hotel at Darjeeling. Darjeeling owes its grandeur to its natural beauty, its clean fresh mountain air and above all, the smiling resilient people for whom it is a home. Known for its natural splendour, Darjeeling’s best gift to its visitors is the dawn of a new day. A steep ride, five kilometres from Ghoom, or an invigorating walk up a steep incline, leads sun worshippers to Tiger Hill. Ghoom situated at 7410 Feet above sea level is the second highest railway station to be reached by a steam engine. Your vehicle will pick you up from the Ghoom railway station to take you to the Himalayan Mountaineering Instituteand the Himalayan Zoowith Red panda as the main attraction of the visit. Later visit the Tibetan refugee help centre where you would see how this refugee camp supports the homeless understand that no help can substitute self-help. Later return to your hotel or walk around the streets of the colonial city Darjeeling. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 Darjeeling – New Jalpaiguri – Kolkata Surface + 123344 Darjeeling Mail –20:00/06:00 Early morning, you will visit Tiger Hill before the break of dawn, to see the sun rise over Mount Everest, the highest mountain peak in the world (subject to clear weather).Often called the Queen of the Himalayas. On your way back stop at the Ghoom Monastery, the holiest monastery in Darjeeling. After your visit, return to hotel for buffet breakfast. Opportunity exists for an optional joyride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Opened in 1881, it adopted device full engineering solutions to the problem of establishing an effective rail link across a mountainous terrain. Thereafter, transfer to the Railway Station at New Jalpaiguri for the train to Kolkata via Mirik stopping at the temple. Overnight on board the train. Day 04 Kolkata Arrive Kolkata 71 To Index Day 01 Alwar Delhi – Alwar 70 Kms Depart by surface for Alwar. Alwar, among the Rajput principalities was the closest to imperial Delhi. People of this region were daring adventurers. A historic and eminent fort guards its highest hill and is reminiscent of a regal way of life. Upon arrival at Alwar, check-into your Hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure to explore the environs. ex Delhi Suggested trips may include visits to The Alwar fort. Round off the day with a visit to Pandupol. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 02 Alwar – Delhi 170 Kms Breakfast at the Hotel. This morning one can visit the nearby ruins of Bhangarh. Transfer by surface to Delhi, visiting on the way an ancient Jain temple dedicated to the eighth Tirthankar Shri Chandra Prabhu Bhagwan. Arrive Delhi. 72 Day 01 Agra Delhi – Agra 200 Kms Depart by surface for Agra. Arrive Agra and check-into your Hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy an excursion to Fatehpur Sikri. The deserted red sandstone city was built by the Great Mughal Emperor Akbar as his capital and palace in the late 16th century. Return to Agra and to your Hotel. Overnight at the Hotel Day 02 Agra – Delhi 200 Kms After breakfast, take a morning tour of the city visiting the Red fort, which was built by Emperor Akbar in 1565, and additions were made up until the time of his grandson, Shah Jahan. Keeping the best for the last, visit the highlight of the day - The Taj Mahal, this was constructed by Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal in the early 17th century. In the afternoon, leave for Delhi. Arrive Delhi. 73 To Index Bharatpur Day 01 Delhi – Bharatpur 200 Kms; 03H00M Depart by surface for Bharatpur. Arrive Bharatpur and check-into your Hotel. Officially known as the Keoladeo National Park is probably the best-known birding location in India. Your rickshaw puller is a trained naturalist and will give you a detailed commentary on the birds and habitat. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 02 Bharatpur After breakfast leave for step well at Abhaneri. Abhaneri is a small town village, situated at a distance of 95 km from Jaipur, on Jaipur-Agra road. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 Bharatpur – Delhi 200 Kms; 03H00M After breakfast, leave for Delhi. Arrive Delhi. 74 Day 01 Nainital Delhi - Nainital 300 Kms Depart by surface for Nainital. Upon arrival at Nainital, check-into your Hotel. Nainital is a glittering jewel in the Himalyan necklace. Dotted with lakes, it has earned the epithet of ‘Lake District’ of India. Later in the afternoon, one can walk to the Naini Lake. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 02 Nainital Breakfast at the Hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. Today you could start the day by visiting the Naina Devi Temple. Round up the evening at The Flats, situated on the northern side of the lake. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 Nainital – Delhi 300 Kms Breakfast at the Hotel. Enjoy a joyride on the Aerial Ropeway commencing at Mallital and connecting to the Snow View Point. It is situated at a breathtaking elevation of 2275 Mts above sea level. A visit to the Govind Ballabh Pant High Altitude Zoo would complete your trip. Depart Nainital by surface for Delhi. Arrive Delhi. Day 01 Jaipur Delhi – Jaipur 265 Kms Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart by surface for Jaipur. Check-into your Hotel. The city owes its name and foundation to Maharaja Jai Singh II. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 02 Jaipur Breakfast at the Hotel. Morning excursion to the Amber Fort. En route to Amber you will see the Hawa Mahal. Take an elephant or jeep to reach Amber Fort. Rest of the day is at leisure for independent activities. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 Jaipur –Delhi 265 Kms After breakfast, leave for Delhi. Arrive Delhi. 75 To Index Ranthambhore Day 01 Delhi –Ranthambhore 12904 Golden Temple Mail – 07:40/12:55 – II AC Board the Golden Temple Mail to Sawai Madhopur. Met upon arrival at Sawai Madhopur Railway Station and transferred to your Hotel. Located at the junction of the Aravali and Vindhya hill range, this is one of the finest places to view animals. Lunch at the Hotel. Afternoon, Jungle Safari inside the park in a Canter on a seat-in-coach basis. Ranthambhore National Park is one of the best places to explore different kinds of wildlife including Bengal Tigers. Jungle Safari is major attraction. It is one of the most popular options to spot animal movement and admire beautiful landscape in Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve. Dinner and overnight at the Hotel. 76 Day 02 Ranthambhore Early morning Jungle Safari inside the Ranthambhore National Park in a Canter on a seat-in-coach basis. Return to the Hotel for Breakfast. A visit to the fort will complete your visit to the Ranthambhore National Park. Lunch at the Hotel. Afternoon at leisure at the Hotel / Resort. Dinner and overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 Ranthambhore –Delhi 12059 Jan Shatabdi Express – 07:05/12:30 – AC Chair Car After breakfast, transferred to the Sawai Madhopur Railway Station for your train back to Delhi. Arrive Delhi. Note: This weekender is not available between July and September when the Ranthambhore National Park remains closed due to monsoons. 77 To Index pilgrim tours To Index Day 01 Delhi – Amritsar 12903 Golden Temple Mail – 19:05/05:45** Arrive on own to the Railway Station to board your train to Amritsar. Overnight on board the train. A Journey of Faith Amritsar – Chandigarh – Paonta Sahib* – Haridwar – Badrinath – Rishikesh – Delhi Day 02 Arrive Amritsar Met upon arrival at the Amritsar Railway Station, assisted and transferred to your Hotel. Amritsar is a city with a splendid blend of tradition and culture. With important religious centres and historical sites, the city reveals a magnificent past and a promising future. Full day sightseeing tour of the city starts with the Golden Temple, which is one of the most sacred pilgrimage spots for Sikhs. Later, visit the Durgiana Temple. Round off your day with a relaxing visit to the Ram Bagh. Located just outside the Ram Bagh Garden, the Historical Banyan Tree or Shaheedi Bohr is just a few kilometres away from Amritsar where four Namdharis were hung to death in 1871. Overnight at the Hotel. 80 Day 03 Amritsar – Chandigarh 230 Kms; 04H00M Breakfast at the Hotel. This morning take a trip to the Jallianwala Bagh to pay homage to the martyrs. T he British under the command of General Dyer fired randomly on a peaceful gathering of people resulting in hundreds of men, women and children killed on the spot. This event was one of the major incidents of India’s freedom struggle. Depart by surface for Chandigarh. Upon arrival, check-into your Hotel. Chandigarh, planned by the famous French architect Le Corbusier is picturesquely located at the foothills of Shivaliks. Afternoon sightseeing tour of the city visiting Amb Sahib Gurudwara, widely known for the old mango tree within its complex that bears fruit all through the year, served as prasad to devotees. Later, visit the namesake for the city and famed for being a Siddhi Peeth, the Chandi Devi Temple. Overnight at the Hotel. 81 To Index Day 04 Chandigarh – Paonta Sahib - Haridwar 210 Kms; 04H15M Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart by surface for Paonta Sahib en route to Haridwar. Paonta Sahib, built in the memory of Guru Gobind Singh, is situated on the banks of the Yamuna and is a bustling town. Visit the Gurudwara Paonta Sahib, the home of Guru Govind Singh for four years. Continue your journey to Haridwar. Arrive Haridwar and check-into your Hotel. Haridwar is regarded as one of the seven holiest places to Hindus and tourists congregate in Haridwar to perform ritualistic bathing on the banks of the river Ganges to wash away their sins to attain Moksha. In the evening visit Har ki Pauri, the sacred Ghat constructed by King Vikramaditya. Witness the evening prayer (Aarti) at dusk offered to Goddess Ganga at Har-Ki-Pauri (steps of God Hara or Shiva). Overnight at the Hotel. 82 Day 05 Haridwar Breakfast at the Hotel. Full day sightseeing of this holy town visiting Chandi Devi Temple dedicated to Goddess Chandi, a 3 km trek from Chandighat and can also be reached through a ropeway. Mansa Devi Temple, situated at the top of Bilwa Parwat, which literally means the Goddess who fulfils desires (Mansa), is a popular tourist destination, especially because of the cable cars, which offer a picturesque view of the entire city. Bhimgoda Tank, situated at a distance of about 1 km from Har ki Pauri, of which it is said prince Bhima drew water from the rocks here by thrusting his knee (goda), to the ground and the ancient Temple of Daksha Mahadev also known as Daksheshwara Mahadev Temple is situated in the south Kankhal town. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 06 Haridwar – Badrinath 300 Kms; 05H30M Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart early this morning for the holy town of Badrinath which is the most important of the four sites in India’s Char Dham pilgrimage and gets its name from the Holy Temple of Badrinath. Upon arrival at Badrinath, check-into your Hotel. Badrinath was re-established as a major pilgrimage site by Adi Shankara in the ninth century. In earlier days, pilgrims used to walk hundreds of miles to visit Badrinath Temple. The Temple in Badrinath is also a sacred pilgrimage site for Vaishnavites. In the afternoon visit the Badrinath Temple which is the main attraction in the town. According to legend Shankara discovered a black stone image of Lord Badrinarayan made of Saligram stone in the Alaknanda River. He originally enshrined it in a cave near the Tapt Kund hot springs. The Temple has a small cupola on top, covered with a gold gilt roof. The architecture resembles a Buddhist vihara (Temple), with the brightly painted facade also more typical of Buddhist Temples. Just inside is the mandapa, a large pillared hall that leads to the garbha griha, or main shrine area. Day 07 Badrinath – Rishikesh 300 Kms; 05H00M Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart by surface for your journey back to Rishikesh in the plains. Arrive Rishikesh and check-into your Hotel. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas in northern India, it is known as “The Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas”. In the afternoon, visit the Ram Jhula situated 3 Km north of Rishikesh, is an iron suspension bridge. The Lakshman Jhula - is a 450 feet long an iron suspension bridge and is one of the most prominent landmarks at Rishikesh. Daily in the morning and evening there are thousands who take bath here and enjoy the Maha Aarti being performed. It is very soothing to sit on the banks of the river and enjoy the cool breeze from the river. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 08 Rishikesh – Delhi 235 Kms; 05H00M Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart by surface for Delhi. Arrive Delhi. 83 To Index Day 01 Mumbai – Rajkot 19017 Saurashtra Janta Express – 17:35/07:27** Arrive ON OWN to the CST to board your train to Rajkot. Overnight on board the train. Day 02 Pilgrims’ Progress Mumbai – Rajkot* – Somnath – Dwarka – Jamnagar* - Mumbai 190 Kms; 03H30M In the afternoon, depart by surface for Somnath. Somnath is one of the holiest places for Hindus. Visit the famous Somnath Temple which stands at the shore of the Arabian Sea. Transfer to Veraval, barely 5 Km. away, to your Hotel. Overnight at the Hotel#. Veraval – Dwarka 225 Kms; 04H00M Breakfast at the Hotel. This morning, visit the Triveni Ghat & take a dip. Thereafter, depart by surface for Dwarka. Arrive Dwarka and check-into your Hotel. 84 Overnight at the Hotel#. Day 04 Dwarka – Jamnagar - Mumbai Arrive Rajkot – Somnath - Veraval 130 Kms; 02H15M & 19006 Saurashtra – 15:35/07:10** Arrive Rajkot, located on the banks of the Aji and Nyari Rivers. Rajkot has many historical landmarks and places to visit. Day 03 Dwarka, is one of the four sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites. You will see the Dwarakadheesh Temple was built in the 6th to 7th century. After a leisurely breakfast, depart by surface for Jamnagar. Jamnagar, founded as the capital of the Princely State of Nawanagar, was one of the most important princely states in the region of Saurashtra. You will visit the Maharajah’s palace and Willingdon crescent. Transfer to the Jamnagar Rly. Stn. for train to Mumbai. Overnight on board the train. Day 05 Arrive Mumbai Arrive Mumbai. * No overnight halt ** Arrival next day The Hotel would be basic but comfortable, offering wholesome meals and warm hospitality. However, it would be devoid of the usual trappings in a ‘starred’ hotel like wi-fi, room service and most likely non vegetarian cuisine. 85 To Index Day 01 Chennai – Kanchipuram– Puducherry 195 Kms; 04H00M Depart Chennai by surface for Kanchipuram enroute to Puducherry. Spiritual Sojourn Chennai –Kanchipuram* - Puducherry – Chidambaram* - Kumbakonam–Thanjavur*– Tiruchirapalli - Madurai - Rameshwaram–Chennai Kanchipuram is a busy pilgrimage centre, humming with activity around its extraordinary temple precincts. It was an important scholastic forum and meeting point for Jain, Buddhist and Hindu cultures. Today Hindu temples alone dominate the town, spanning the years from the peak of Pallava construction to the 17th century, when ornamentation of the Gopurams and pillared halls was at its most elaborate. The Kailasanatha temple at Kanchipuram with a four-storeyed tower and octagonal shikhara is a commendable piece of creativity. The rest of the day is dedicated to visiting various temples. Continue your journey to Puducherry. Arrive Puducherry and, check-into your Hotel. Overnight at the Hotel. 86 Day 02 Puducherry Breakfast at the Hotel. Pondicherry has a rich French cultural heritage, having been the capital of the French colonies in India since the 17th century. Split into two parts, Pondicherry is, on one hand a bustling Indian Market town, and on the other hand, towards the sea, the streets are emptier, cleaner and decidedly European. Later, proceed for a sightseeing tour of Pondicherry - visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, located on Rue de la Marine. The Ashram was founded by Sri Aurobindo Ghose in 1926 to help man reach the zenith of his evolution through spiritual exercises and yoga, combined with physical activity and productive work. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 Puducherry – Chidambarm– Kumbakonam 135 Kms; 03H00M After breakfast at hotel, you will be driven from Pondicherry to Chidambaram, the capital of the Cholas from AD 907 to 1310, en route to Kumbakonam. Chidambaram is one of the five holiest Shiva temples, 87 To Index each representing one of the five natural elements. The temple is ancient, historic and dedicated to Lord Shiva Nataraja and Lord Govindaraja Perumal, one of the few temples where both the Shaivite and Vaishnavite deities are enshrined in one place. To the followers of Shaivism, the very word coil refers to Chidambaram. In the same way, to the followers of Vaishnavism it refers to Srirangam or Thiruvarangam. Continue your journey to Kumbakonam. Arrive Kumbakonam and check-into your Hotel. Kumbakonam is one of the oldest towns in Tamilnadu and is famous for its Mahamaham festival The town has also been well - known for its prestigious educational institutions and brass vessels. Overnight at the Hotel. The Hotel here would be basic but comfortable, offering wholesome meals and warm hospitality. However, it would be devoid of the usual trappings in a ‘starred’ hotel like wi-fi, room service and most likely non vegetarian cuisine. Day 04 Kumbakonam –Thanjavur –Tiruchirapalli 100 Kms; 02H15M Breakfast at the Hotel. Transfer to Thanjavur enroute to Tiruchirapalli for a sightseeing. The Chola kings built the majority of Tanjore’s many magnificent temples which still bear witness to the splendour of Chola architecture. Afternoon, you will proceed to Tanjore city with visit to Brihadeeshwara Temple, built in the 10th century by Raja Chola. It is considered to be artistically the most perfect of Dravida temples. Continue your journey to Tiruchirapalli. Upon arrival at Tiruchirapalli, check-into your Hotel. Tiruchirappalli, situated on the banks of the river Cauvery was a citadel of the early Cholas, which later fell to the Pallavas. The town and its fort, now in Trichy were built by the Nayaks of Madurai.Visit the Rock Fort, which is a landmark of Trichy. The rock is one of the oldest in the world at approximately 3.800 million years. Also visit the Sri Rangan Temple. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 05 Tiruchirapalli –Madurai 135 Kms; 02H00M After breakfastyou will be driven to Madurai. Arrive Madurai and check-into your Hotel. One of the oldest cities in South India, Madurai has been the centre of learning and pilgrimage for centuries. Full day tour of the city visiting Madurai’s main attraction, the famous Meenakshi temples in the heart of the old town. In the evening, return to the Meenakshi temple complex to witness the evening Aarti ceremony in which Lord Shiva is carried in a palanquin accompanied by musicians, temple singers and priests to the temple of his consort Parvati to spend the night (the Paliarai ceremony). Overnight at the Hotel. Day 06 Madurai –Rameshwaram - Chennai 170 Kms; 03H30M +16714 Sethu Express – 20:00/08:20** Breakfast at the Hotel. Transfer by surface to Rameshwaram. Known across the world for the Ramanathaswamy 88 Temple, Rameswaram is one of the famous pilgrimage hubs in India. Rameswaram is depicted as the Varanasi of the South due to its spiritual significance. Rameswaram is one of the Char Dhams in India as well. This place of spirituality is popular among both Vaishnavas and Shaivites. Visit the famous and sacred Ramanathaswamy Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and housing the longest corridor in the globe, The Agnitheertham where it is said that a bath in the huge lake here sweeps away every transgression, The Ramjharoka Temple it is known for keeping the impression of the feet of Sri Rama in a wheel or chakra. Also visit the Adam’s Bridge, a distinctive series of coral reefs and small islands which connect India to Sri Lanka. There is a fable that this bridge was built by Lord Rama and is also named as Ram Setu or Adam’s Bridge. Transfer to the Railway Station for the train to Chennai. Overnight on board the Train. Day 07 Arrive Chennai Arrive Chennai. * No overnight halt ** Arrival next day 89 To Index Day 01 Chennai – Kumbakonam 275 Kms; 05H30M Transfer from Chennai to Kumbakonam. Arrive Kumbakonam and check-into your Hotel. Navagraha Temples’ Tour For thousands of years, people all over the world have believed in the influence of the planets on human life and history. Logically speaking, the creation of the planets precedes that of the living beings. Hence, some sort of cause and effect relation must subsist between these two. This seems to be the basis for this belief. Visit the Sun Temple or Suryanar Koil. In Hindu religious literature, Surya is notably mentioned as the visible form of God that one can see every day. Later, visit the Sukkiran, a Temple dedicated to Venus, at Kanchanoor. Overnight at the Hotel. The Hotel here would be basic but comfortable, offering wholesome meals and warm hospitality. However, it would be devoid of the usual trappings in a ‘starred’ hotel like wi-fi, room service and most likely non vegetarian cuisine. Day 02 Kumbakonam Breakfast at the Hotel. In the morning visit the Temples dedicated to Guru (Jupiter) and Raahu at Alangudi (17 kms) and Thirunageshwaram (5 kms) respectively. Brihaspati is the Guru of Devas, personification of piety and religion, and is the guru of the Devas (Gods). Rahu is the head of the demonic snake that swallows the sun or the moon causing eclipses. The Rahu kala is considered inauspicious. In the afternoon, visit the Temples dedicated to Moon and Mars at Thingalloor (30 kms) and Vaitheshwaran Kovil (50 kms) respectively. 90 Overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 Kumbakonam Breakfast at the Hotel. Excursion to Thiruvenkadu (60 kms) to visit the Temple dedicated to Mercury or Bhudhan. Budha is the god of the planet Mercury and the son of Chandra (the moon) with Tara (Taraka). He is also the god of merchandise and protector of merchants. Next on the list is the Temple dedicated to Ketu situated at Keezhaperumpallam. Return to Kumbakonam and to your Hotel. Afternoon visit to the Temple dedicated to Sani or Saturn would mark the culmination of your Navagrah Temples’ Tour. Located at Thirunallaru (50 kms), Shani is one of the nine primary celestial beings in Hindu astrology. Return to Kumbakonam and to your Hotel. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 04 Kumbakonam – Chennai 275 Kms; 05H30M Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart by surface for Chennai. Arrive Chennai. 91 To Index Day 01 Mumbai – Bhimashankar 225 Kms; 04H30M Depart by surface for Bhimashankar. Arrive Bhimashankar. Visit Bhimashankar Temple seemingly to reach out to heaven. Transfer to your Hotel at Manchar, barely 8 kms away. Overnight at the Hotel#. Spiritual Serenity Mumbai – Bhimashankar – Shignapur* – Shirdi – Nashik – Trimbakeshwar* – Mumbai Day 02 Bhimashankar – Shignapur - Shirdi 280 Kms; 05H45M Breakfast at the Hotel. Transfer by surface for Signapur. A little village, Shani Shinganapur is believed to be the home of Lord Shaneshwara. Only male devotees are allowed to worship. Thereafter, continue your journey to Shirdi. Arrive Shirdi and check-into your Hotel. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 03 Shirdi Breakfast at the Hotel. 92 Shirdi is the abode of one of Maharashtra’s most revered saint—Sai Baba of Shirdi. Overnight at the Hotel. Day 04 Shirdi – Nashik 90 Kms; 01H45M Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart by surface for another holy city – Nashik. Upon arrival at Nashik, check-into your Hotel. Nashik is said to be the abode of Lord Rama during his 14 years in exile. The city is a site for more than 100 ancient temples including Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple, one of the jyotirlings. Return to Nashik and to your Hotel. Overnight at the Hotel#. Day 05 Nashik – Mumbai 165 Kms; 02H45M Breakfast at the Hotel . Depart by surface for Mumbai. Arrive Mumbai. # * No overnight stay # The Hotel here would be basic but comfortable, offering wholesome meals and warm hospitality. However, it would be devoid of the usual trappings in a ‘starred’ hotel like wi-fi, room service and most likely non vegetarian cuisine. 93 To Index International Journeys 95 To Index Day 01 Arrive Colombo Airport – Kandy On Arrival at Colombo Airport, meet our representative & get transferred to Kandy. Visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Arrive at Kandy and check in to hotel for 02 Nights Stay. Evening at Leisure. Overnight stay at Kandy. Sri Lanka Ecstasy - 07 days Colombo – Kandy – Nuwara Eliya – Yala – Bentota – Colombo DAY 02 KANDY After breakfast commence city tour of Kandy. Kandy was the last stronghold of the Sinhala Kings and was finally ceded to the British in 1815. Visit Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic containing Buddha’s Tooth. Overnight stay at Kandy. DAY 03 KANDY – NUWARA ELIYA After breakfast leave for Nuwara Eliya and en route visit tea plantation. Nuwara Eliya is set against beautiful backdrops of Mountains, Valleys, Waterfalls and Tea Plantations. Overnight stay at Nuwara Eliya 96 DAY 04 NUWARA ELIYA – YALA After breakfast proceed to Yala for safari at Yala National Park. Overnight stay at Yala DAY 05 YALA – BENTOTA After breakfast leave for Bentota. En route explore Galle. Check in to the hotel for 01 night. Overnight stay at Bentota. DAY 06 BENTOTA – COLOMBO After breakfast transfer to Colombo. Visit Fort, Sea Street and the Dutch Church of Wolfendhal. Overnight stay at Colombo. DAY 07 COLOMBO AIRPORT DROP After breakfast free at leisure and then get transfer to the airport for departure. 97 To Index Day 01 Arrive Singapore After an early Lunch you will be taken towards Sentosa for enjoy the Evening package with Theme Parks and rides. On arrival at Singapore International Airport meet our representative and transfer to Hotel for 03 nights stay. You will be covering the major attractions like Images of Singapore, Jewel Cable Car Ride, Underwater World, Dolphin Lagoon (subject to availability on weather condition) and many other rides & attractions. Singapore is a bustling cosmopolitan city. Afternoon at leisure for relaxing. Evening you will be picked up for a Night Safari Tour. The drama and mystery of the tropical jungle comes alive after dusk, at the world’s premier Night Safari. SINGAPORE MALAYSIA DELIGHT - 07 days Singapore – Kuala Lumpur – Genting – Kuala Lumpur Creatures from South America, Asia, & India greet visitors from their own naturalistic enclosures, which simulate that of their own homeland. Overnight stay at hotel in Singapore. Day 02 Singapore City Tour – Sentosa Sunset Tour Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Today you will be picked from your hotel lobby for a morning Half Day City tour of Singapore. You will go through the main city highlights covering the colonial Landmarks, China Town, Little India & the Iconic – Merlion. 98 Lastly enjoy Songs of the Sea, a Multi-sensory extravaganza. Overnight stay at hotel in Singapore. Day 03 UNIVERSAL STUDIO WORLD Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Proceed for a full day entertainment at Universal Studio World (USW) with the feel of Hollywood Movie Themed Rides & attractions. USW feast your senses on a world of non-stop entertainment, signature shopping experiences & compelling dining selections. USW Singapore boasts a collection of Movie Magic World with Madagascar, Shrek 4D Adventure, Revenge of the Mummy, Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure etc. Evening at leisure for shopping around. Overnight stay at hotel in Singapore. 99 To Index Day 04 Fly Singapore to Malaysia – Genting After an early breakfast at hotel in Singapore, check out & transfer to Singapore Airport to catch your flight to Malaysia. On Arrival at Kuala Lumpur Airport, meet our representative and transfer to Genting for 01 night stay. Genting officially known as The Resorts World & a selfproclaimed City of Entertainment is also known as The Fun City Above the Cloud & is the only legal land based Casino. Evening to enjoy the Indoor Theme Park & Casinos of Genting World. Overnight stay at hotel in Genting. Day 05 Genting – Kuala Lumpur Enjoy breakfast at hotel of stay and morning at leisure. Later Check out & drive to Kuala Lumpur. En route photo stop at Batu Caves and other enroute locations. On arrival at Kuala Lumpur check in to hotel for 02 nights stay. Day 06 Kuala Lumpur Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Today you will be picked from your hotel lobby for a morning half day City tour of Kuala Lumpur. The attractions will cover places like Independence Square, Jamek Mosque, Lake Garden, Parliament House, Petronas Tower (photo stop) and China Town. Afternoon is at your leisure for shopping around, to relax OR to choose for any Optional Tour. Overnight stay at hotel in Kuala Lumpur. Day 07 Kuala Lumpur Airport Drop Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Day at leisure for own activities OR to enjoy Shopping OR optional tours. Later transfer to Kuala Lumpur Airport for your flight back home town. Evening at leisure for own activities. Overnight stay at hotel in Kuala Lumpur. 100 101 To Index Day 01 Arrive in New York Welcome to the “Big Apple,” the “City That Never Sleeps”— New York is a city of superlatives: America’s biggest; its most exciting; its business and cultural capitals; the nation’s trendsetter. For more than a century, it has been one of the world’s major centers of commerce and finance. Amazing USA – 12 days New York – Washington – Niagara Falls – Las Vegas – Los Angeles – San Francisco Upon arrival at the airport, you will be transferred to the hotel. Overnight stay in Hotel. Day 02 New York City Tour After breakfast we proceed for a City tour of New York. The sightseeing will include USA’s famous landmark “Statue of Liberty”. We will take a ferry ride to Liberty Island for a spectacular view of the New York City Skyline. Next we experience the view of a lifetime from the 86th floor of the Empire State Building, Later in the day we will see Rockefeller Center, Wall Street, Ground Zero and Central Park, Times Square, United Nations and Trump. Overnight stay at Hotel in New York. 102 Day 03 New York – Washington Today we proceed by flight / train to Washington DC, capital of the United States of America and a Guide to the Historic Neighborhoods and Monuments. Other than the federal government, tourism is DC’s biggest industry. The city attracts almost twenty million visitors each year. After checking in at the hotel, you will explore the capital city of US. See the White House, Lincoln Memorial, Supreme Court, the Capitol Building, the Smithsonian Air and Space museum, Union Station, World War II Memorial Building, Pentagon building and Washington monument. Overnight stay at hotel in Washington. Day 04 Washington – Buffalo – USA side Niagara Falls Travel to Buffalo by flight OR by road to view the world famous falls, which forms one of the natural wonders of the World. Overnight stay at Hotel near Niagara Falls. Day 05 USA side Niagara Falls After breakfast we will board the famous boat “Maid of the mist” which takes us close to the thundering falls and around 103 To Index the American and Horseshoe Falls (seasonal). Return to the hotel to freshen up after your damp ride and then enjoy dinner at Niagara’s finest restaurant. You can also visit the falls on own at night to see them lit up beautifully. Overnight stay at Hotel near Niagara Falls. Day 06 Fly to Las Vegas Depart in the morning for your flight to Las Vegas. On arrival, transfer to your hotel. In the evening, we proceed for the city tour in Las Vegas experiencing the spectacular Colorful Dancing Fountain water fountains of the Bellagio, the Pirate Ships at Treasure Island, Stratosphere Tower, Downtown Vegas, and of course Fremont street, where over 12 million lights create a free show with pumping music. Overnight stay at Hotel in Las Vegas Day 07 Grand Canyon (Optional) Spend the day at leisure OR take the Grand Canyon Tour by BUS OR AIR (OPTIONAL). Don’t Forget the New Wonder of the West the SKYWALK. In the evening, take the Las Vegas Night Flight (OPTIONAL), a Helicopter Ride over dazzling 104 night time Vegas, take in a fabulous Show or visit any of the free shows such as the Sirens of Treasure Island and much more. Overnight stay at Hotel in Las Vegas. Day 08 Las Vegas – Los Angeles Fly or go by road to Los Angeles today. Enjoy a city tour of Los Angeles we will drive you through the Entertainment capital of the world” Hollywood Walk of Fame, Beverly Hills, Grumman Chinese Theater, Sunset strip, Rodeo Drive for the world’ most expensive shopping and China town for some good bargains. Overnight stay at hotel in Los Angeles. Day 09 Los Angeles – Universal Studios Join us today for a tour of Universal Studios which has always been known for its innovative rides and attractions, and is designed to let visitors experience the movies like never before. A trip to Universal is like a trip into the heart of Hollywood. Overnight stay at Hotel in Los Angeles Day 10 Los Angeles – Disney Land Today you will visit Disney Land where storybook fantasy is everyday reality, and Disney classics are brought to life from the moment you step onto Main Street USA. Overnight stay at Hotel in Los Angeles. Day 11 Los Angeles – San Francisco Fly to San Francisco, which is one of the few North American cities to achieve the legendary status of such places as Paris or London. You will visit the famous Golden Gate Bridge, with the world’s highest bridge towers. Continue on to Twin Peaks, Lombard Street, Cable Car, Pier 39, Nob Hill, Civic Center, Union Square, Fisherman’s Wharf, Palace of Fine Arts & other highlights. Overnight stay at Hotel in San Francisco. Day 12 San Francisco airport drop After breakfast, spend some time at leisure. Depart for the airport to board your flight for next destination. 105 To Index Day 01 Arrive Barcelona Transfer from Barcelona airport to the hotel in Barcelona. Barcelona sightseeing based on a hop on- hop off bus. The key sights and world famous attractions of this fantastic city are included on the tour including the gothic quarter which is the centre of the old city of Barcelona. a great number of buildings are world heritage sites. SPANISH MASALA – 08 days Barcelona – Valencia – Sevilla – Madrid Especially remarkable is the work of architect Antonio Gaudi, which can be seen throughout the city; the Sagrada Familia Cathedral, Casa Batllo, Casa Mila and Park Güell. Overnight at hotel in Barcelona. Day 02 Barcelona Buffet breakfast at hotel. Half day excursion in Montserrat. Montserrat, the holy mountain, with weird shapes and rounded peaks that jut into the sky offering impressive views. An almost 1000 year old monastery hosts the oldest boys’ choir in Europe. Located 1 hour drive from Barcelona. (Tour in English). Overnight at hotel in Barcelona. 106 Day 03 Barcelona – Valencia Buffet breakfast at hotel in Barcelona. Transfer to Valencia by train. Leisure time to discover the city, to go shopping or to go to the beach. Overnight at hotel in Valencia. Day 04 Valencia – Sevilla Buffet breakfast at hotel in Valencia. Valencia sightseeing based on a hop on- hop off bus. Explore Valencia starting from Plaza Del Ayuntamiento (Town Hall Square), Central Market, former silk exchange “La Lonja”, Plaza De La Reina, Cathedral, Miguelete Bell Tower, Turia River Bed Gardens, City of Arts & Sciences. Transfer to Sevilla by train. Leisure time to spend the evening enjoying the city. Overnight at hotel in Sevilla. Day 05 Sevilla Buffet breakfast at hotel in Sevilla. 107 To Index Sevilla sightseeing based on a hop on hop off bus. The tour starts at the Isla De La Cartuja which was chosen as the site for the Expo’92, an appropriate reflection of the World at the end of the 20th century. Laid out in 1929 for the Ibero-American Exhibition, the Plaza De España and the adjoining Maria Luisa Park are among the most pleasant and impressive public spaces in Spain. Overnight at hotel in Sevilla. Day 06 Sevilla – Madrid Buffet breakfast at hotel in Sevilla. Transfer to Madrid by train. Madrid sightseeing based on a hop on hop off bus. The tour highlights show the history of the city from the old Hapsburg and Bourbons quarters to the present city: Gran Vía, Plaza De España, University, Moncloa, Hapsburg Old Quarter, Calle Mayor, Puerta Del Sol, Puerta De Alcalá, And The Real Madrid Stadium, Santiago Bernabéu (tour of the stadium available). Day 07 Madrid Buffet breakfast at hotel in Madrid. Toledo excursion on regular basis. Toledo is one of the Spanish cities with the greatest wealth of monuments. It is known as the “city of the three cultures”, because Christians, Arabs and Jews lived together there for centuries, Toledo is a cultural jewel declared a world heritage site, 70 km from Madrid. Overnight at hotel in Madrid. Day 08 Madrid (Airport Drop) Buffet breakfast at hotel. Leisure time to enjoy the city. Go shopping on the ever so lively Calle Fuencarral or Gran via to finish your trip in style. Departure transfer to Madrid airport. Overnight at hotel in Madrid. 108 109 To Index DAY 01 ARRIVE CAPE TOWN Upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport, our representative meets you for a transfer to your pre-booked hotel. Cape Town is one of the most popular long haul destinations in the world. Its unique topography makes it one of the easiest places where you can orientate yourself. Overnight at Hotel. Spectacular South Africa - 07 days Cape Town – Johannesburg – Sun City – Johannesburg Day 02 Cape Town – City Tour After breakfast leave on a half-day Mother City tour. You will go for a scenic coastal drive through Clifton & Sea Point & later tour passes the Houses of Parliament, the Castle, the SA Museum, and a few other historical sights – District Six, Bo-Kaap, Slave Lodge & ending at the bustling Greenmarket Square. A cable car ride, takes you up the Table Mountain (weather permitting otherwise Signal Hill) for a breathtaking view over the city (entrance is included) Return to your hotel. Overnight at hotel. 110 Day 03 Cape Town – Peninsula Tour Breakfast is taken at the hotel. Depart on a full day Peninsula tour. This comprehensive tour shows you the best of the spectacular Cape Peninsula and why it is called the Fairest Cape. Travel past Sea Point and Camps Bay, past the famous beaches of Clifton and Llandudno towards Hout Bay. Drive along the Atlantic Seaboard. Pass through Noordhoek and Scarborough. Later you will take to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. Enjoy the funicular ride aboard the “Flying Dutchman” and enjoy the unforgettable spectacular views. Later get the photo opportunity to take some pictures at the second southernmost tip of the African continent. Visit the beautiful Boulders Beach, and have the option to sit among the famous colony of Jackass Penguins. Thereafter we enjoy a short stop at the naval port of Simon’s Town and know about the legend of “Able Seaman Just Nuisance” the Great Dane Dog that was inducted in Royal Navy. Return to the hotel. Overnight at Hotel. 111 To Index Day 04 Cape Town – Johannesburg – Sun City After breakfast, transfer to the airport for a flight to Johannesburg. On arrival you are met by our representative for a transfer to Sun City. The Sun City complex is surrounded by two championship golf courses, numerous swimming pools and a huge manmade lake offering various water sports. Optional activities include Hot Air Ballooning. Enjoy lunch at the Raj Restaurant (own account). You can enjoy an optional Game Drive in Pilanesberg Nature Reserve for a Big 5 experience. Overnight at Hotel. Day 06 Sun City – Johannesburg After breakfast transfer to Johannesburg. On arrival you will be transferred to the hotel. Later you will leave for a Gold Reef City tour (Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays). Here you will see reconstruction of Johannesburg during the Gold Rush era, built around a mine. Then you could relax at the Valley of the Waves, or take a walk through the gardens of the Lost City. Activities include a Victorian fun fair, miners’ houses, brewery, pubs, restaurants and stock exchange. This magical city knows no limits - you have the chance to win a fortune at the Casino and Entertainment Centre, there are lavish extravaganzas and a multitude of restaurants to cater for every taste. You can watch molten gold being poured and take a trip down an old mine shaft with tribal dance adding to the fun. Overnight at Hotel. Day 05 Sun City After breakfast you will enjoy your day at leisure. 112 Overnight at hotel. Day 07 Johannesburg After breakfast, transfer to International for flight back home. 113 To Index Company retreats and off-site meetings don’t have to feature the same, old tired formulae every time. There are better ways to get employees to work as a team and build company spirit and camaraderie. Off-sites may be anything from mini-breaks over the weekend to a full-blown convention. In both cases, there is a great deal of opportunities for networking with your colleagues from the ‘other’ department and for learning more about a particular process. Yes, corporate travel in India is getting popular day by day and, now it has variety of destinations to choose from. a Fun Filled and Productive Staff Retreat PLW extras Your team will benefit immensely from a well planned retreat which is scheduled at regular intervals. Your team members will feel appreciated and share a great sense of team unity and commitment to the common goal; internal conflicts shall be resolved more easily given the neutral setting. We will make it relevant by helping you plan your agenda well ahead of the dates. We will help you make it comfortable by starting the day with goodies to lighten up the atmosphere, and sharing personal appreciation amongst the staff and, by raising the interactive quotient, both on a personal level and in a group. At the end of the retreat you will have a more skilled team that regularly works to develop a fresh perspective on the task at hand. We will arrange for you to choose from several venues conducive to the spirit of team bonding. An on-site team lunch can be the ideal icebreaker. 115 To Index At PL Worldways, we are guided by the philosophy that educational tours form a very significant part of the school curriculum. Students visiting places other than their hometowns imbibe more of the rich heritage and, the diverse culture of our fabled country than those who do not. With this thought process as our driving gospel, we have been deeply involved in understanding the nuances of ‘meaningful’ educational tours for school and college students in India and abroad. Our team has the expertise in organising such educational tours for students. Our trips are a combination of fun and learning. Besides adventure, we stress on educating students on flora and fauna of the area, local population, the environment etc thereby giving them a comprehensive experience. Our sightseeing and excursion trips invariably include meaningful places of interest providing an opportunity to enhance the learning experience. Safety is given utmost priority on our trips and we are proud of our safety standards. Our staff supervising adventure activities is trained in imparting First Aid, should the need arise. Accommodation is understated and comfortable without being ostentatious. Understanding the importance of hygienic and nutritious meals for growing up children, we emphasise on providing a balanced meal rich in protein, fibre, carbohydrates and minerals. “Don’t tell me how educated you are, tell me how much you have travelled.” -Mohammed 116 117 NCR Delhi 0124 – 4697700 Call us at the location closer to you Pune 020 – 40177606 Bangalore 080 – 40852200 Calicut 0495 – 4014555 Kochi 0484 – 4042411 Chennai 044–43456500 Coimbatore 0422 – 2221689 Trichy 0431 – 4021267 [email protected] | www.plworldways.com Map not to scale Mumbai 022 – 4333 8888 Kolkata 033 – 40010137
© Copyright 2026 Paperzz