Delhi has a number of tourist attractions, right from history to present. Museums, heritage, shopping -you name it, Delhi has it all. It’s astonishing heritage is the city's star attraction - both in terms of its monuments and its cultural offerings. Although there are sites in Delhi that one may tick off the travellers list, it is the Old Delhi area which has those lesser talked about places that cannot be missed.
Agra tops the list of "must visit" places in India and attracts tourists like moths to flame. Home to one of the seven wonders in the world, The city is studded with splendid architecture, dating back to the Mughal-era. Agra Fort, Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri have been recognized by the UNESCO as World Heritage Sites.
Ranthambore National Park is one of the biggest and most renowned national parks in Northern India. The park is located in the Sawai Madhopur district of southeastern Rajasthan, which is about 130 km from Jaipur. Once considered as one of the famous and former hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur, today the Ranthambore National Park terrain is a major wildlife tourist attraction that has drawn the attention of many wildlife photographers and lovers.
Jaipur, Rajasthan's capital, evokes an image of the royal family that once ruled the region what is now called the Old City or Pink City for its trademark building colour. It is known for its fascinating monuments, colourful markets, gorgeous handloom garments and wonderfully laid-out gardens; it is not difficult to fall in love with Jaipur the moment you land here.
Udaipur is a small city in the western side of Rajasthan. With a romantic setting that is totally unmatched, Udaipur is inarguably one of the picturesque places in India. It IS the capital of the Rajput kingdom of Mewar. Founded by Udai Singh II in 1559, its set around a series of artificial lakes and known for its lavish palaces. City Palace, overlooking Lake Pichola, is a monumental complex of 11 palaces famed for its intricate peacock mosaics. Fantastical palaces, temples, havelis and countless narrow, colourful streets add the human counterpoint to the city's natural charms.
From the iconic Chinese Nets in the harbour, which are a reminder of the port town's long time maritime relations with the Far East to the famous Pepper Exchange, whose 'black gold' had all of ancient Rome hungry for more of this exotic spice. Pop along to the graceful Dutch Palace, and marvel at the fusion of Dutch, Portuguese and English influences that sharply define this popular tourist attraction.
Mararikulam, a beach village in the district of Alappuzha. The name comes from Marari (Lord Siva) who is the main deity of the place. It has the famous temple Mararikulam Mahadevar temple dedicated to Lord Siva (also called Marari by the locals). It is the fertile land of communism and it has a very beautiful beach which is known by the name Marari Beach or Mararikulam beach.
Namaste and welcome to India. Arrive at New Delhi international airport. You will be met by our representative at the arrival lounge and then transfer to the hotel (Where rooms booked from 1400 hrs). On arrival check in and Overnight stay at the hotel.
Old Delhi - Mughal Emperor Shahjahan founded Old Delhi in 1639 which was formerly known as Shahjahanabad. Till the end of Mughal dynasty it remained the capital of the Mughals. During ancient times, the city was known for housing exquisitely designed mosques, beautiful gardens, and magnificent mansions of members and nobles of the royal court. Though this part of Delhi has become extremely crowded yet it symbolizes the heart of Delhi.
The Mughals built many palaces and forts in Delhi. The wall city was built by Shah Jahan in between 1638 to 1649, including the Chandni Chowk and the Lal Qila. The original cantonment of Delhi was at Daryaganj which later shifted to Ridge area. Old Delhi had the first wholesale market and the first hardware market was opened in Chawri Bazaar in the year 1840. Then the next wholesale market was opened at Khari Baoli which was of dry fruits, herbs and spices in 1850. Daryaganj also had a Phool Mandi (Flower Market), established in 1869. Though the area is small and densely populated it holds much importance.
New Delhi - The remarkable Indian Capital was architecturally designed by the British architect Edwin Lutyens and was named after him. It has a pleasant contrast to the twisted streets of Old Delhi. Enriched with history and culture, the impressive avenues and imperial buildings of New Delhi are included in the list of attractions. Humayun’s Tomb, Gandhi Ji's Delhi home, the site where he was assassinated are all located in New Delhi that draws a large number of tourists every year. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast proceed full day Delhi sightseeing and visit the Jama Masjid; the great mosque and the largest in India, with a courtyard capable of holding 25,000 devotees. Drive past Red Fort citadel and reach Raj Ghat; a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi is a simple black marble platform that marks the spot of his cremation on 31 January, 1948. Visit the 11th century Qutub Minar Tower; a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a 73-metre (239.5 feet) tall tapering tower of five storeys, with a 14.3 metres (47 feet) base diameter, reducing to 2.7 metres (9 feet) at the peak. It contains a spiral staircase of 379 steps. Qutab Ud-Din-Aibak, founder of the Delhi Sultanate, started construction of the Qutub Minar's first storey around 1192. In 1220, Aibak's successor and son-in-law Iltutmish completed a further three storeys. Visit Humanyun’s tomb the tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun in Delhi, India. The tomb was commissioned by Humanyun’s first wife and chief consort, Empress Bega Begum, in 1569-70, and designed by Mirak Mirza Ghiyas and his son, Sayyid Muhammad, Persian architects chosen by her. Visit Lotus Temple – Baha’I House of Worship (Closed on Monday), temple built in the shape of a lotus flower and is the last of seven Major Bahai's temples built around the world. Completed in 1986 it is set among the lush green landscaped gardens.
Drive past The India Gate- at the centre of the city (42 meter, high stone arch) is a memorial raised in honour of the Indian soliders who fought & died in the campaign of world war-1 & Afghan war. The President’s House- built in 1929, once the Imperial residence of the British Viceroys and now official residence of the President of Indian Republic, Parliament House – this circular shaped building houses the two houses of Parliament- The Lok Sabha (lower) & Rajya Sabha (Upper). Its domed central hall is 90 feet in diameter. Overnight stay at hotel.
After breakfast drive to the home of the breath-taking white-marble Taj Mahal – Agra takes us through the images of rural India. Agra was established as the Mughal capital in 1526 and is known for its chaotic and vibrant marketplace, plentiful souvenir vendors, historic temples and many grand, ancient monuments and tombs. On arrival check in at hotel.
Later proceed to visit the imposing Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site this powerful fortress of red sandstone encompasses, within its 2.5-km-long enclosure walls, the imperial city of the Mughal rulers. Rest of free time for shopping. Visit the magnificent Taj Mahal (Closed on Fridays), a UNESCO World Heritage Site one of the Seven Wonders of the World and surely the most extravagant expression of love ever created. 20,000 men laboured for over 17 years to build this memorial to Shah Jhan's beloved wife. It's a wealth of white marble and semi-precious stone. Visit Itimad ud Daulah Tomb - Often described as a "jewel box", sometimes called the "Baby T?j", the tomb of Itimad ud Daulah Tomb is often regarded as a draft of the Taj Mahal.
Later have some free time to explore the local handicrafts and shopping centres of the city where one can look for marble inlay work, fine quality carpets, Zari and embroidery, leather goods etc. Overnight stay at hotel.
After early breakfast drive to Ranthambhore National Park, a vast wildlife reserve - It is a former royal hunting ground and home to tigers, leopards and marsh crocodiles. Its landmarks include the imposing 10th-century Ranthambore Fort, on a hilltop, and the Ganesh Mandir temple. Also in the park, Padam Talao Lake is known for its abundance of water lilies.
En route first stop at Fatehpur Sikri, one of the best preserved collections of Mughal architecture. Fatehpur Sikri home to sandstone temples and a mosque, built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. Later continue drive to Ranthambhore.
En route second stop at Bharatpur Keoladeo National Park (25kms); a vast bird sanctuary and former royal game reserve. the park’s woods and man-made wetlands protect over 350 species of migratory and resident birds, including herons, cormorants and eagles. Continue drive to Ranthambhore. On arrival check in, lunch, dinner and overnight stay at hotel.
Morning Shared Jeep Safari + Afternoon Shared Jeep Safari. Lunch, dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Drive to the royal city of Jaipur - the fabled “pink city” of the desert named after Jai Singh, the former Maharaja of Jaipur. The palaces and forts of the yesteryears, which were witnesses to the royal processions and splendours, are now living monuments. On arrival check in at hotel.
Later take a Rickshaw ride to enjoy the diverse elements of city’s living heritage. Whether traditional temples, monuments and building, or living craft and culture, or tradition cuisines like sweets making. The entire heritage of people, culture and architecture becomes appealing through the process of walking leisurely and engaging with the community along our City Walks.
Free time for Shopping - Jaipur offers one of a kind shopping experience with its rich treasure of bewitching jewellery, beautiful gems, semi-precious stones, kundan and minakari work (enamel work on gold). Beautiful cotton fabric including sanganeri prints, tie-dye, and fine kota doria saries are the best buys for women. The exotic blue pottery, enamelware and brassware, make excellent souvenirs and gift items. The city is also famous for woolen carpets and cotton rugs, as are the leather footwear, especially that embroidered juties. Overnight at hotel.
After breakfast proceed to visit the magnificent fort-palace of Amber - a wonderful example of Rajput architecture (uphill) by Elephant ride (subject to availability). On the way a short photo stop in front of Jal Mahal.
Afternoon continue city tour of Jaipur and visit the Albert Hall Museum – It is the oldest museum of the state and functions as the State museum of Rajasthan. The building is situated in Ram Niwas garden outside the city wall opposite New gate and is a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Visit The Jantar Mantar (Observatory) monument is a collection of nineteen architectural astronomical instruments, built by the Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh, and completed in 1734 CE. Photo stop at Hawa Mahal (Palaces of the Wind) - a beautiful pink colour building having many small windows from where the Royal Ladies watched the annual procession of kingdom. The tourist can take photograph from outside only. Overnight stay at hotel.
After breakfast drive to Udaipur (approx. 400kms/8-9 hrs); a very popular tourist destination. Apart from its history, culture, and scenic locations, it is also known for its Rajput-era palaces. The Lake Palace, for instance, covers an entire island in the Pichola Lake. Many of the palaces have been converted into luxury hotels. It is often called the "Venice of the East", and is also nicknamed the "Lake City" or "City of Lakes". On arrival check in & overnight stay at hotel.
After breakfast proceed for sightseeing of Udaipur. The highlights of the trip are rich collection of magnificent City Palace Museum, a palace complex situated in the city of Udaipur, Rajasthan. It was built over a period of nearly 400 years, with contributions from several rulers of the Mewar dynasty. Visit Jagdish Temple and an elegant garden called Sahelion-Ki-Bari; a major garden and a popular tourist space. It lies in northern part of the city and has fountains and kiosks, a lotus pool and marble elephants. It was built by Rana Sangram Singh.
Later proceed for sharing Boat ride through the placid waters of Lake Pichola and visit the Jag Mandir Palace; a palace built on an island in the Lake Pichola. It is also called the "Lake Garden Palace". Overnight stay at hotel.
After breakfast checkout and transfer to Udaipur airport board flight for Kochi (also known as Cochin) is a city in southwest India's coastal Kerala state. It has been a port since 1341, when a flood carved out its harbour and opened it to Arab, Chinese and European merchants. Upon arrival meet by our representative and transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.
After breakfast drive to Mararikulam, a beach village in the district of Alappuzha. The name comes from Marari (Lord Siva) who is the main deity of the place. It has the famous temple Mararikulam Mahadevar temple dedicated to Lord Siva (also called Marari by the locals). It is the fertile land of communism and it has a very beautiful beach which is known by the name Marari Beach or Mararikulam beach. On arrival check in, lunch at hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at hotel.
Breakfast served at hotel. Rest of the day free for relax or your own activities. Dinner and overnight stay at hotel.
Breakfast served at hotel. Rest of the day free for relax or your own activities. Dinner and overnight stay at hotel.
After breakfast drive back to Kochi (approx. 42kms/01 ½ hrs). On arrival check in at hotel. Later proceed for half day city tour and visit the Dutch Palace (Closed on Fridays), Jewish Synagogue (Closed on Fridays & Saturdays), Chinese Fishing Nets and St. Francis Church. Evening witness Kathakali dance show at Cochin. Overnight stay at hotel.
After breakfast rest at the hotel – Room booked till 1200 hrs. In time transfer to Kochi international airport board your onward flight back to hometown.
The Claridges, New Delhi has strived to be the best in business and has been successful in winning accolades of guests and fraternity. The Claridges houses some of the finest restaurants of the city, huge banquet halls, a rejuvenating fitness center, adequately furnished rooms, a pool with cabanas and lush green lawns to make your experience memorable. Comprising of elegantly adorned rooms, The Claridges offers you a plethora of rooms to choose from. Adequately equipped with all the facilities that you could possibly need, these rooms proffer an unconventional blend of the elegant style of architecture and the contemporary modern styles.
Sprawled over 35 acres of luxurious gardens, and in close proximity to the Taj Mahal, ITC Mughal, a luxury hotel in Agra is a fitting tribute to the great Mughal builders of the past. The only Indian hotel to have won the prestigious Aga Khan Award for its excellent representation of Mughal architecture. This luxury hotel in Agra comprises of 233 opulent rooms and suites, recreating a paradise for the contemporary Mogul- full of splendor and perfection which was the hallmark of the Mughal Dynasty.
The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort, the best 5 star hotel in Ranthambhore, offers luxury tented accommodation inspired by the opulent caravans of the royal families. A fine restaurant serving authentic Rajasthani and international cuisine. And spa experiences customised to suit your needs. All accompanied by hospitality that is genuine and sincere. The perfect space to relax and unwind in after a thrilling day spent tiger spotting in the neighbouring jungle.
Experience the finest luxury hotel in Jaipur - ITC Rajputana, where we are proud to offer one of the best accommodation in the city with a host of comforts and services in settings that reflect the spirit of Rajasthan and its royalty. Just 15 kilometres from the airport and half a kilometre from the city centre, our regal-influenced design and gardens echo the city’s history. Retreat to our 218 guest rooms and suites equipped with modern amenities. Our restaurants offer tastes from around the globe, designed along the lines of traditional havelis, this leisure hotel in Jaipur has its own definition of space and splendour.
The 137 rooms and 4 suites at Trident, Udaipur blend elegance and style with traditional touches and contemporary comforts, including complimentary high speed Internet for up to four devices. Our hotel rooms feature authentic Rajasthani 'Jharokas' or elegantly designed window frames and 'Jaipuri Kalam' or artwork in vegetable dyes. Furnished in soothing, earthy tones, you will also find the 'Udaipur Green' marble in the décor, a specialty of the region. A restful night on our posturepedic mattresses and duck down pillows is welcome after a day of sightseeing in the city. Enjoy the views of the hotel garden and the swimming pool from the comfortable chairs in your room. Our extensive in-room dining menu has many regional specialties but we recommend you visit our restaurant for a regal feast complimented by exceptional service.
An amalgamation of the architectural splendour of Fort Kochi's colonial past. Brunton boatyard in Fort Kochi is inspired from its colonial history. A former shipyard in British times, it has been converted by us to faithfully reflect the symbols and signs of a historical period known for its stately grandeur and good taste as expressed through its ambiance, amenities, service and food.
The sea-side village experience set on 30 acres with coconut groves, lily ponds, fruit trees and a large organic farm. Our seaside resort, Marari beach in Mararikulam, is a tribute to the fisherfolk of this region who populate its spirit in obvious and subtle ways. Our guest cottages echo their dwellings in style and character while our cuisine reflects the culinary subtleties of these people whose sensibilities and culture have been influenced by the charms and challenges of the oceans.
Journey to India.......once is not enough!!!!
BANKING AND CURRENCY
Currency
The Indian Rupee is the official currency of the Republic of India. The modern Indian Rupee is subdivided into 100 paise (singular paisa). Banknotes in circulation come in denominations of INR 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 2000. Please note that as of November 2016, the older 500 and 1000 INR note are no longer valid legal tender and only new ₹500 notes will be accepted.
The latest Indian Rupee coins are available in denominations of INR 1, 2, 5, 10.
The import and export of local currency is prohibited. The import of foreign currency is unlimited. However, amounts exceeding US$5,000 or equivalent in cash, or US$10,000 or equivalent in all forms of currency must be declared. The export of foreign currency is allowed up to the amount imported and declared.
Currency can be changed at banks, airports or authorised money changers. Many hotels also have facilities to change money but this is a more expensive option. It is illegal to exchange money through unauthorised money changers. US Dollars and Pounds Sterling are the easiest currencies to exchange.
Banking
Banking hours: Monday-Saturday 10h00-03h30 (Bank will be closed on second and forth Saturday).
Strictly speaking, you can neither import nor export Indian currency, but you can get some at the airport straight away to at least get you transport to your accommodation. There are Authorized Foreign Exchange dealers in most big cities, and banks will also change your currency at a fair rate if you have time for the paperwork.
A good way of getting your travellers currency is via an ATM but beware of hidden bank charges, both from the bank providing the ATM and the card-issuing bank - you also do not know what exchange rate you are getting.ATMs are found in most towns and are recommended for cash withdrawals.
Visa, MasterCard and American Express are usually accepted in tourist hotels and many other shops. Debit cards are also widely accepted.
Travellers cheques are widely accepted and may be changed at banks and larger hotels. The most widely accepted currencies include US Dollars and Pounds Sterling. Some banks may refuse to change certain brands of traveller's cheques whilst others may exchange quite happily.
TRAVEL, TRANSPORT AND GETTING AROUND
India is big and there are lots of interesting ways to travel around it, most of which could not very well be described as efficient or punctual. Allow considerable buffer time for any journey with a fixed deadline (eg. your flight back), and try to remember that getting there should be half the fun.
India's large size and uncertain roads make flying a viable option, especially as prices have tumbled in the last few years. Even India's offshore islands and remote mountain states are served by flights, the main exceptions being Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh (although crossing over from neighbouring states is fairly easy). Due to the aviation boom over the last few years, airports have not been able to keep up with the air traffic. Most Indian airports continue to function with one runway and a handful of boarding gates. Check in and security queues can be terribly long, especially in Delhi and Mumbai.
Railways were introduced in India in 1853, more than one and half a centuries ago, by the British, and today India boasts of the biggest network of railway lines in the world, and the rail system is very efficient, if not always on schedule. Travelling on Indian Railways gives you the opportunity to discover the Indian landscape and scenic beauty first hand and is generally more economical than flying domestic. It is one of the safest ways of travel in India. With classes ranging from luxurious to regular, it's the best way to get to know the country and its people. Most train passengers will be curious about you and happy to pass the time with a chat.
In central locations of big cities like airports or stations reliable pre-paid taxis are available and will save you money as well as the bargaining hassle. However beware of touts who would claim themselves to be running pre-paid taxis. Always collect the receipt from the counter first. The receipt has two parts - one part is for your reference and the other part you will need to handover to the taxi driver only after you reach your desired destination. The taxi driver will get his payment by submitting or producing this other part to the pre-paid taxi counter. Normal taxis running by meter are usually more common. In many non Metro Cities (or even in Metros depending on time) taxies or autos may ply without the usual meter.
While you can't take a cross-country bus-ride across India, buses are the second most popular way of travelling across states and the only cheap way of reaching many places not on the rail network (eg. Dharamsala).
FOOD, DRINK AND CUISINE ADVICE
Water for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should first be boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is often unpasteurised and should be boiled. Avoid dairy products likely to have been made from non-boiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Do not eat salads, vegetables should be cooked and peel your own fruit. Don’t eat street vendor food unless it is piping hot. Tap water is not safe to drink, rely on bottled water which is widely available. However, do check the seal on bottled water.
Indian food is world-renowned for its tantalising flavours, spiciness and enormous variety. Curries are created from the subtle and delicate blending of spices such as cumin, turmeric, cardamom, ginger, coriander, nutmeg and poppy seed although these vary from region to region and every spice has medicinal properties and use.
Vegetable dishes are more common than in Europe, particularly in the fruity, coconutty dishes of southern India, while northern India has an entirely different but equally satisfying cuisine to sample. Breads like paranthas, chapatis, naans and rotis are also part of the main diet in several states like Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Achars (pickles), relishes and chutneys again vary by region and add more resonance to amazing meals.
Sweets or mithai too have regional specialities. They tend to be milk based and some are syrupy and fried. Well-known northern sweets are gulab jamun, jalebi (it’s worth watching how these syprup-based confections are made in the street), kulfi, kheer, halwa and laddu. From the east are rasgulla and rasmalai. The south has several burfi and halwa-type desserts like coconut burfi and badam halwa made from almonds.
While care should be taken in where one eats, exceptional food can be had in the most humble surroundings such as food at ashrams as can be found in 5-star restaurants. Non-vegetarians will find fabulously spiced mutton dishes according to regional specialities including fish dishes typical to coastal areas.
10 to 15% is usual in restaurants that impose no service fee; optional where service fee is added to bill.
CLIMATE AND WEATHER
The weather is mainly hot most of the year with significant variations from region to region. The coolest weather lasts from around the end of November to the beginning of March, with fresh mornings and evenings, and mostly sunny days. The really hot weather, when it is dry, dusty and unpleasant, is between March and June. Monsoon rains occur in most regions in summer anywhere between June and early October.
CLOTHING AND DRESS RECOMMENDATIONS
Male or female, one rule covers all visitors to India: don't leave the house with your arms or legs bare. You'll naturally get attention as a foreigner, as full-on staring is common and accepted on Indian streets, but you'll suffer far less negative attention if you remain covered up. For most locations and seasons in India, thin, loose linen or cotton pants and button-down shirts will keep you comfortable in hot, humid weather and help you blend in. While you may see Indian young adults sporting tight jeans and fitted brand-name tops, you'd stand out significantly more in the same outfit. If you visit anywhere in northern India - not just the mountains, Delhi too - during the winter, prepare for seriously cold weather. Bring jeans and heavy shirts and pick up an Indian wool wrap.
What you can get away with at an Indian beach depends entirely on which beach you visit. In the state of Goa, a popular beach and club getaway destination, locals are accustomed to seeing tourists in bikinis on the beach and Indian men often sport Speedos. But skimpy clothes need to stay on the beach. Don't walk around town or your hotel in nothing but a bikini and sarong. In less Western-frequented beach destinations, such as the beaches around Bombay, Alibag and Chowpatty, or anywhere in the south, hit the beach in light pants and a tunic.
When visiting temples and other religious sites on your own or part of a tour, be on the lookout for signs advising visitors to dress in a specific way to enter the temple. The government of India advises that some religious institutions require visitors to cover their heads or remove their shoes, and covering your legs and arms in respect goes without saying. Certain sites may carry more specific requirements, such as donning a certain colored sash or sarong-like covering. Take your cue from other visitors exiting the site.
ELECTRICITY AND PLUG STANDARDS
For the most part, electrical sockets (outlets) in India are the "Type D" 5 amp BS-546 sockets. This is actually an old British standard. The "Type D" Indian plug and socket is not to be confused with the "Type M" South African plug and socket. In pictures, they look very similar, but the South African type is much larger than the Indian type, and they are physically incompatible. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in.
Electrical sockets (outlets) in India usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need. If your appliances are not compatible with 220-240 volt electrical output, a voltage converter will be necessary.
