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.
Fatehpur Sikri is a small city in northern India, just west of Agra, founded by a 16th-century Mughal emperor. Red sandstone buildings cluster at its center. Buland Darwaza gate is the entrance to Jama Masjid mosque. Nearby is the marble Tomb of Salim Chishti. Diwan-E-Khas hall has a carved central pillar. Jodha Bais Palace is a mix of Hindu and Mughal styles, next to the 5-story Panch Mahal that overlooks the site.
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.
Mumbai is what the Indians affectionately call - the 'City of Dreams'. This fabulous city is not only the financial capital of India that serves as the center of all trade and investments, but also a cultural center. Mumbai is where you can possess the most distinguished designer labels and products from various fashion houses that flood the busy malls. This is the one place where glamour is not an uncommon word and is reflected ostentatiously in the Bollywood film industry. Take a look at the beaches in Mumbai to witness some of God's amazing miracles- the magnificent sunsets over the Arabian Sea, which is a dream-like vision. In Mumbai, night is when the day truly begins, which is why Mumbai is also referred to as the 'city that never sleeps'.
Namaste & arrive at Delhi airport. You will be met by our local representative, later traditional welcome and introduction with the driver transfer to hotel for overnight stay.
Delhi, the capital of India has a strong historical background. It was ruled by some of the most powerful emperors in Indian history. The history of the city is as old as the epic Mahabharata. The town was known as Indraprastha, where Pandavas used to live. In due course eight more cities came alive adjacent to Indraprastha: Lal Kot, Siri, Dinpanah, Quila Rai Pithora, Ferozabad, Jahanpanah, Tughlakabad and Shahjahanabad.
Post breakfast, full day Golf at Golf Course. Return to hotel for a relaxing overnight stay.
Munch some tasty breakfast and energize yourself for a day full of excitement and fun. Enjoy your day with a sightseeing tour around this beautiful city.
Jama Mosque - The highly decorative mosque has three great gates, four towers and two 40 m-high minarets constructed of strips of red sandstone and white marble. This great mosque of Old Delhi is the largest in India, with a courtyard capable of holding 25,000 devotees.
Raj Ghat – is a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. It was here where Mahatma Gandhi’s last rites were performed on January 31, 1948, a day after his death. His last words, ‘Hey Ram,’ are inscribed on the marble which is always adorned with flowers.
Akshardham Temple - A traditional mandir (temple) dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan that reflects the beauty and spirituality of India’s ancient art, culture, and architecture. Epitomizes 10,000 years of Indian culture in all its breathtaking grandeur, beauty, wisdom an d bliss.
India Gate - At the centre of New Delhi stands the 42 m high India Gate, an "Arc-de-Triomphe" like archway in the middle of a crossroad. Almost similar to its French counterpart, it commemorates the 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during the World War I.
Sikh Temple - Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is known as much for its religious significance as for its splendid architecture. The grand edifice is built in the Sikh architecture. The distinctive feature of Gurudwara is a community kitchen, which serve daily 10000 people every day.
Qutub Minar - is a soaring, 73 m-high tower of victory, built in 1193 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak immediately after the defeat of Delhi's last Hindu kingdom. The tower has five distinct storeys, each marked by a projecting balcony and tapers from a 15 m diameter at the base to just 2.5 m at the top.
Later in the evening return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Breakfast at hotel. Transfer from Delhi by surface to Agra via Expressway. On arrival in Agra, check in to hotel. Visit Taj Mahal (remains 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. Overnight at hotel.
Full day local sightseeing of Agra, visiting 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.
Itmad-ud-Daulah - a Mughal mausoleum, often described as a "jewel box", sometimes called the "Baby Taj", the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah is often regarded as a draft of the Taj Mahal.
Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel. Later drive to Jaipur en route take a stop for the visit of Fatehpur Sikri, one of the best preserved collections of Mughal architecture in India. Visit Buland Darwaza, Tomb of Salim Chishti and, Jama Masjid Mosque.
Later 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 splendors, are now living monuments.
Upon arrival check in at the hotel, overnight stay.
After breakfast, enjoy full day Golf at Rambagh Golf Course. Overnight at hotel.
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at hotel. Later a short photo stop at Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds): known for its iconic façade. Small windows, decorated with intricate latticework create a honeycomb-like appearance. The unique construction was originally designed to look like the crown of Krishna.
You will then proceed to the dramatic hilltop fortress at Amber, the ancient citadel is set in picturesque and rugged hills is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Ascend the imposing fort on a painted Elephant (subject to availability). You’ll wander among glittering inlays and the Hall of Mirrors.
Lunch at the hotel. Post lunch continue city tour of Jaipur.
Jaipur City Palace - The beautiful palace was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh during his reign. Among the various forts and palaces of Jaipur, City Palace stands apart, with its outstanding art and architecture.
Visit Jantar Mantar (Observatory) - a collection of nineteen architectural astronomical instruments, built by the Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh, and completed in 1734 CE.
The Birla Temple, originally known as Lakshmi Narayan Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, this temple is a proud architectural landmark of Jaipur. Built in pure white marble.
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
In time transfer to airport to connect flight for Mumbai. Meeting and assistance upon arrival in Mumbai and transfer to hotel. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel.
Mumbai - it is a magical city with a vibe that cannot be felt anywhere else. Housing India’s most prolific film industry; some of Asia’s biggest slums as well as world’s most expensive homes along with the largest tropical forest in an urban area, the city truly mirrors the diversity that India is known for. Not only this, the city can fill pages after pages when it comes to rich history and it can give any place in the country a good run for money when it comes to nightlife. The bottom line is Mumbai is truly a place to see in India, something that will engage your memories for days after the tour as well.
Breakfast at hotel. Enjoy full day Golf. Overnight at hotel.
Breakfast at hotel. Enjoy full day Golf. Overnight at hotel.
After breakfast checkout and leave for half day excursion to The Elephanta Caves (Closed on Monday) by boat ride from The Gateway of India. The island, located on an arm of the Arabian Sea, consists of two groups of caves—the first is a large group of five Hindu caves, the second, a smaller group of two Buddhist caves. The Hindu caves contain rock cut stone sculptures, representing the Shaiva Hindu sect, dedicated to the Lord Shiva. Return by boat ride.
Later drive past The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, formerly known as Victoria Terminus Station. The building, designed by the British architect F. W. Stevens, became the symbol of Bombay as the ‘Gothic City’ and the major international mercantile port of India.
Drive past Bombay High Court - Beautiful British Heritage building and the court is one of the most distinguished high courts in the country.
Dhobi Ghat; a well-known open air Laundromat in Mumbai, India. The washers, locally known as Dhobis, work in the open to wash the clothes from Mumbai's hotels and hospitals. There are rows of open-air concrete wash pens, each fitted with its own flogging stone. Called the world's largest outdoor laundry. Drive past Marine Drive and Chowpatty beach.
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel
Breakfast at hotel (if time permits). In time transfer to airport to connect flight for onwards journey.
The Roseate, New Delhi is a an urban oasis that narrates the visual language of nature seamlessly weaved with splendid architecture, and reminisces of the rich heritage of Delhi with eight acres of luscious greens and tranquil water-bodies crisscrossing the length of this luxury resort in Delhi.
See HotelLocated just 600 metres from the Taj Mahal, the world’s most exquisite testimony to undying love, it is easy to rekindle romance at The Oberoi Amarvilas. The best hotel in Agra is inspired by Mughal palace designs; with fountains, terraced lawns, reflection pools and pavilions. The Oberoi Amarvilas is a five star hotel that offers unrestricted views of Taj Mahal from all rooms and suites, complemented by our warm, personalised hospitality. Tastefully appointed accommodation, exquisite restaurants serving authentic Mughal and international cuisines, private dining beside the silhouette of the Taj Mahal and couples spa therapies with Taj Mahal views. At The Oberoi Amarvilas, your experience of Agra will be unforgettable.
See HotelDrawing inspiration from Rajasthan’s royal heritage, The Leela Palace Jaipur is an elegant reflection of modern palatial grandeur and an epitome of true Indian luxury. Located amidst tranquil environs near the Amber fort on Delhi-Jaipur highway, the hotel is set on over 8 acres of landscaped gardens, against the majestic backdrop of the Aravalli range. Within easy driving distance from Delhi, it offers a serene and tranquil vantage for the discerning traveler to discover the Pink City in all its glory… its fabled past and its vibrant present. Promising unparalleled luxury, this is where timeless traditions meet contemporary sophistication, peppered with thoughtfully curated immersive cultural experiences, celebratory rituals and distinguished taste making, all delivered with the warmth and graciousness of Indian hospitality.
The Leela, Mumbai's only resort style business hotel, is just 10 minutes away from the Mumbai Airport and offers 391 lavish guest rooms and suites, meeting space, restaurants, spa and much more. The Leela Mumbai is a 5 star hotel within Mumbai’s commercial district. The luxury hotel offers comfortable accommodations among 11 acres of ornate gardens and cascading waterfalls. The hotel features contemporary comforts with remarkable personal service along with a range of dining options, a swimming pool and spa.
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.
