An exciting journey that combines together the visit of Calcutta, the most European and land of great saints and poets. In Orissa there is precious archaeological area around Bhubaneshwar with tribal area, where you can meet the last representatives of an ancient life. Finally Hyderabad, a great sultanate of the past and today a city at the vanguard. The hotel accommodations in the tribal area are very simple, although they are the best.
Kolkata the 'City of Joy' of West Bengal is the most apt place for the eager visitants as places of interest in Kolkata are numerous. This eventful city with its many marvels has truly a lot to offer. It is one the most sought after destinations for the tourists from all over the globe. The British Raj-era architectural gems, sprawling gardens and historical colleges, universities, with museums, National Library, Auditoriums, Theater Halls, Art galleries, markets, The Festivals, sports stadium, Gangar ghats are of great attractions. It has many places of great pilgrimage. Known as the cultural capital of India, Kolkata continues to spawn generations of poets, writers, film producers and Nobel Prize winners. If your trip only allows for a visit of one or two of India's metropolitan cities, than definitely consider placing Kolkata on your itinerary. You definitely won't forget the city on the Hooghly and a boat/ launch trip on it is truly enjoyable.
The capital of Odisha popularly known as "Temple City of India" is an important Hindu pilgrimage centre. It is believed to be a land of 2000 temples. They perfectly complement its modern buildings and extensive infrastructure with a perfect blend of historic surroundings. It is very famous for the handicrafts. Temples like Rajarani, Mukteswar, Vishnu, Brahma and ISKCON are of greatest interest here.
In the third century B.C, during the reign of Ashoka the Great, Rayagada District was covered under Kalinga empire. Bhojpur Rock inscription in Brahmi of Rastrik King Mandhata adds some facts about the history of Rayagada District. Later on, the Rastriks were defeated by Kharvela During Ganga Vansi and Surya Vansi Kings, it was under Dadarnab Dev of Gudari Kataka. A rock inscription found at Pataleswar temple in Brahmi script provides an evidence to this effect.
Semiliguda is a small town located in the Koraput district of the state Odisha, India. It is a suburb of Sunabeda Municipality.
History states that Valor was named after the town of Visakha in the name of God. It was part of the Kalinga Empire in the reign of Ashoka in 260 BC. It was subsequently owned by the Vangi kings of the Andhra region. The region was later ruled by the Pallavas, the Cholas and the kings of the Ganges. It was part of the Vijayanagar Empire in the 15th century. Next it is known as a good tourist destination. The region is surrounded by lakes, the hilly terrain of the cool sea, and the valleys. The district boasts of many tourist attractions and the culture and civilization of the region confirms the richness of India.
Hyderabad is a city with a unique charm, with the old rustic culture, beautiful pearls, and the sweet accent of the natives, the city generates awe in the hearts of the beholders. Charminar, Golconda Fort, Salarjung museum, and Qutub Shahi Tombs let you take a walk in history.
Depart from you home country to board the flight to onward destination. Meals on board.
Arrival in Calcutta. Senkay representative awaits you to welcome at the airport and a warm traditional receptions you will be transferred to the hotel reserved for you. Post lunch, In the afternoon, visit the Indian Museum with its precious collections, photo stop at the gigantic Howrah bridge over the river Ganges and Victoria Memorial in the colonial area. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post breakfast, in the morning, visit the colorful flower market. Visit to the tomb of Mother Teresa and stop at the orphanages run by the Sisters of Charity. Visit the dedicated Kalighat temple to the Goddess Kali in the old part of the city. Afternoon flight to Bhubaneshwar. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Full day excursion: in morning, transfer to Puri. Puri, located on the sea, it is one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites of India. The religious life of the city revolves around the Jagannath temple, one of the forms of God Krishna (for non-Hindus it cannot be visited inside). Continuation for Konark for a visit to the spectacular Temple of the Sun God, built in the middle of the 13th century, today protected by Unesco. In 1904 they removed the debris that covered this structure and all its grandeur came to light. The whole temple had been conceived as the chariot of the Sun God, Surya. Around at the base there are 24 giant wheels in carved stone; seven stone horses pull the temple and the immense structure is covered with sculptures, figures. Return to Bhubaneshwar. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Morning tour of the city which boasts a history of more than 2,000 years. In addition to being the seat of the capital of the ancient kingdom of Kalinga, it is known as the City of Temples. Built in the singular architectural style of this state, the temples date back to the period between the eighth and thirteenth centuries. We will visit some of the most beautiful spots, such as those of Parashurameshwar and Mukteshwar. Visit to the Jainist caves of Udaigiri and Khandagiri, dating back to the III - I century B.C. Afternoon transfer to Gopalpur with a stop and boat ride on the suggestive Chilka lake, a natural home of migratory birds. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Morning free for relaxation and spend some time walking on the beautiful sandy beach on the Indian Ocean. Afternoon transfer to Rayagada. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post breakfast, day excursion to visit the villages of the Malia Kondh tribe, ritual tattoos on the face of women indicate the clan they belong to. Stop at the curious local fish market of Kotogarh. Return and overnight stay at the hotel.
Morning visit of the spectacular Chotikona market where the various tribes some Dongoria Konda and Desia Konda bring theirs harvests and products from the forests for the weekly sale. Afternoon visit to the tribal villages in the forests of Mali Kondha and Kuwi Kondha. Overnight at the hotel.
Post breakfast visit the tribal market of Onukadelli to see the Bonda tribes, famous for the jewels, the colorful dresses and the numerous neck rings. Short walk in the countryside to reach a village of traditional potters. At the come Back photo stop at the suggestive Duduma waterfalls. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Visit of the tribal market of Kunduli with the Paroja tribes characterized by the numerous rings in the nose and the pretty hairstyle. Continue your drive to Vishakapatnam along the coastal road. At sunset, time at your disposal for walks on the long beach. Overnight stay at the hotel.
In the morning flight to Hyderabad. Panoramic tour of the city, today one of the most important centers important IT companies in the world. Afternoon visit of the Golconda Fort, capital of a powerful sultanate starting from the XII century, famous in the ancient world for the diamond mines. In the late evening, transfer to airport and boarding. Overnight stay at the hotel.
In the very early hours of the morning (night between penultimate and last day), departure to the airport.
Taj Bengal is a landmark five-star hotel in downtown Kolkata, in the exclusive neighbourhood of Alipore at the heart of its cultural heritage. Prominent landmarks—Victoria Memorial, Royal Calcutta Race Course, Horticultural Gardens, National Library, Eden Gardens and the Alipore Zoological Gardens—are all within walking distance. It is the luxury hotel closest to government offices and most consulates. The city’s commercial centre is just two miles (three km) away; 45 minutes drive to the airport. But for the twinkling views of the stunning Kolkata skyline, you could forget the hotel’s location in the centre of the bustling metropolis. Nestled in the city’s greenest precinct, you are in paradise, with lush flora teeming with birdlife and clear views of the Alipore Zoological Gardens. Designed by legendary architect Bob Fox, the architecture and interiors of the hotel are deeply inspired by the city’s famed art, culture and heritage. All around, grandeur meets understated elegance—you are awed by the lavish five-storied stone and marble atrium, bathed in glorious gold light each afternoon. Genuine antiques, priceless art, and traditional accents and colours are impeccably woven together with contemporary style and modern amenities.
Trident, Bhubaneswar is located approximately five kilometres from the central Bhubaneswar, 20 minutes from Biju Paitnaik international airport and close to many of the city’s top attractions. This five star hotel is an oasis of luxury, set amidst landscaped gardens and fruit orchards. Savour serene views of the gardens and orchards, framed beautifully by the picture windows in your hotel room. With just 57 rooms and 5 suites spread across 14 acres of manicured lawns, you can be sure of finding your own tranquil corner within the premises. The elegantly appointed rooms, inspired by traditional architecture, add an old world charm which is perfectly complemented by our warm and caring service. Guests can also enjoy complimentary high speed Internet for up to four devices. Trident, Bhubaneswar is amongst the best hotels in Bhubaneswar.
Spread across 12 acres of a beautiful seaside sprawl, MAYFAIR Palm Beach Resort, Gopalpur-on-Sea is one of the best 5 Star luxury resort in Gopalpur-on-sea. This bastion of serene luxury is located in a tranquil part of the southern coast of Odisha. The exteriors of this top hotel in Odisha are bathed in pure white and a striking cerulean blue. Skylights let natural light into the corridors which are painted a beautiful pale teal. Seashells and other vestiges of the ocean placed attractively along the corridor give one a sense of being even closer to the sea. Glimpses of an elegant lighthouse, a tea shop on the beach and recurrent ambient motifs like seahorses and turtles add to the charm of the hotel. Facilities include a swimming pool surrounded by cabanas, a convenient Travel Desk which can arrange Gopalpur tour packages, a Spa offering wellness treatments, an adjoining fitness centre, a boutique, a kids’ play area and a library lounge.
Hotel Sai International
Hotel Lemon Castle, Completely furnished guest rooms and a best multi-cuisine restaurant forms the integral part of our offering. A perfect blend of professionalism with a tinge of personal touch contains the core values of our Hotel, Lemon Castle.
Spoil yourself in 5-star seafront luxury at Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach hotel. Spare contemporary design makes your room a calm haven, and picture windows offer you dazzling Bay of Bengal views. Rise and shine with a dip in the infinity pool and breakfast with an ocean backdrop at the lavish Indian and Western buffet at Novotel. The hotel shares a close proximity with the city railway station, Rushikonda Beach, Vizag Port and major hospitals. The popular Submarine Museum is just a walk away. The hotel's city centre location makes it approachable from industrial and business hubs. Novotel Vizag forms part of a complex consisting of an INOX multiplex, night club and mall. Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach is among the only hotels in Visakhapatnam near a beach. The hotel offers calming views of the sea from every nook and corner.
Perched 2,000 feet above the city of Hyderabad is Taj Falaknuma Palace, a jewel amongst the clouds. Built in 1894, it is the former palace of the Nizam, rumoured to be the richest man in the world at one time. Overlooking the twinkling City of Pearls, this enchanting palace hotel in Hyderabad exudes romance and grandeur that take one back to when the Nizam ruled Hyderabad. From the moment you arrive at Taj Falaknuma Palace in a horse-drawn carriage, our palace butlers treat you like royalty. Walk the walk of kings through the Grand Staircase to retrace the steps of Nizams, European royalty, enchanting Begums and distinguished Heads of State. The five-star luxury hotel, spread over 32 acres, allows you to journey to the gilded ages, where opulence and excess is celebrated and savoured in equal measure.
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.
