gayan
Golden Triangle
Sunday, 28 June 2015 04:57Package Details
Delhi – Jaipur – Agra – Delhi
5 Nights – 6 Days
Day 01: Arrival – Delhi (05 hrs drive)
- Arrive Delhi &Transfer to Hotel
- Check in at hotel
- Overnight stay at hotel
Morning Arrive Delhi international airport, Meeting& assistance on arrival and straight drive to Hotel.
Check In at Hotel.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 02: Delhi
- Breakfast at hotel
- Full day Sightseeing of Delhi
- Rickshaw Ride at Old Delhi
- Overnight stay at hotel
Morning after breakfast full day sightseeing of Delhi visiting Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk followed by Rickshaw Ride , Humayun’s Tomb, QutubMinar , India Gate.
Red Fort (from Outside), Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned construction of the Red Fort in 1638, when he decided to shift his capital from Agra to Delhi. Its design is credited to architect Ustad Ahmad Lahauri, the same architect who constructed the Taj Mahal. The fort lies along the Yamuna River, which fed the moats surrounding most of the walls. Construction began in the sacred month of Muharram, on 13 May 1638. Supervised by Shah Jahan, it was completed in 1648. Unlike other Mughal forts, the Red Fort's boundary walls are asymmetrical to contain the older Salimgarh Fort.
Jama Masjid one of the largest mosques in India, The Masjid-i Jahān-Numā the 'World- reflecting Mosque'), commonly known as the Jama Masjid Delhi, is the principal mosque of Old Delhi. Commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, it is the best-known mosque in India. Construction began in 1650 and was completed in 1656. It lies at the beginning of the Chawri Bazar Road, a very busy central street of Old Delhi. The later name, Jama Masjid, refers to the weekly Friday noon Congregation prayers of Muslims. Also drive past ChandniChowk, shopping centre of Old Delhi followed by Rickshaw Ride.
Chandni Chowk originally meaning "moonlit square" or "moonlit market", is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi, now in central north Delhi, India. Built in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor of India Shah Jahan, and designed by his daughter JahanAra, the market was once divided by canals (now closed) to reflect moonlight, and it remains one of India's largest wholesale markets
Afternoon city tour of New Delhi
QutubMinar built by Qutub-ud-Din Aibek in 1199,it is the 2nd tallest minar (73 metres) in India after FatejBuri in Chapparchiri at Mohali which stands 100 meters tall. QutbMinar originally is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. QutbMinar is made of red sandstone and marble. The stairs of the tower has 379 steps, is 72.5 metres (237.8 ft) high, and has a base diameter of 14.3 metres, which narrows to 2.7 metres at the top. Construction was started in 1192 by Qutb – ud –din Aibak and was carried on by his successor, Iltumish In 1368,Firoz Shah Tughlag constructed the fifth and the last storey.
Humayun’s Tomb:- Humayun's tomb is the tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun in Delhi, India. The 
tomb was commissioned by Humayun's first wife Bega Begum (Haji Begum) in 1569-70, and designed by MirakMirzaGhiyas, a Persian architect chosen by Bega Begum. It was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent, and is located in Nizamuddin East, Delhi, India, close to the Dina-panah citadel also known as PuranaQila (Old Fort), that Humayun founded in 1533. It was also the first structure to use red sandstone at such a scale. The tomb was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, and since then has undergone extensive restoration work, which is complete. Besides the main tomb enclosure of Humayun, several smaller monuments dot the pathway leading up to it, from the main entrance in the West, including one that even pre-dates the main tomb itself, by twenty years; it is the tomb complex of Isa Khan Niyazi, an Afghan noble in Sher Shah Suri's court of the Suri dynasty, who fought against the Mughals, constructed in 1547 CE.
India Gate :- The India Gate, originally called the All India War Memorial, is a war memorial located astride the Rajpath, on the eastern edge of the ‘ceremonial axis’ of New Delhi, formerly called Kingsway. India gate is a memorial to 82,000 soldiers of the undivided Indian Army who died in the period 1914–21 in the First World War, in France, Flanders, Mesopotamia, Persia, East Africa, Gallipoli and elsewhere in the Near and the Far East, and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. 13,300 servicemen's names, including some soldiers and officers from the United Kingdom, are inscribed on the gate. The India Gate, even though a war memorial, evokes the architectural style of the triumphal arch like the Arch of Constantine, outside the Colosseum in Rome, and is often compared to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, and the Gateway of India in Bombay. It was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens.
Drive Past to President House and Parliament House
Overnight at hotel
Day 03: Delhi - Jaipur
- Breakfast at hotel
- Drive to Jaipur
- Arrive Jaipur check in at hotel
- Rest of the day at leisure
- Overnight stay at hotel
After breakfast at hotel, drive to Jaipur
Arrive Jaipur and check In at Hotel.
Rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 04 : Jaipur
- Breakfast at hotel.
- Morning Excursion to Amber Fort Followed by Elephant/Jeep ride.
- Afternoon Sightseeing of Jaipur
- Overnight stay at hotel.
Morning after breakfast Proceed for a half day excursion to inspiring Amber Fort, 11 Kms form Jaipur. Amber Fort is a marvellous example of Rajput architecture with its terraces and ramparts reflected in the Maota Lake below. Go up the fort in a jeep. The interiors of the fort have various royal halls decorated with intricate ivory, mirror and glass work complemented by exquisite wall paintings. As you move between the rooms of this magnificent structure feel the history and visualise the pomp and grandeur of a kingdom never conquered
(Elephant rides at Amber Fort cannot be guaranteed in advance. This is due to the fact that the number of Elephants and the trips each Elephant can take is limited. All guests have to reach the Amber Fort in time and stand in line to wait their turn to climb the Elephant. These lines could sometimes be very long and some guests have had to be turned back).
Afternoon city tour of Jaipur
City Palace Museum where you can see an imposing blend of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal Art, The museum is resplendent with its collection of robes of royal princes, carpets, an armoury of old weapons, miniature paintings portraying court scenes, battle scenes and processions, The City Palace Complex gives you an idea about the farsightedness of the founder of Jaipur Sawai Jai Singh. He left behind a legacy of some of the most imposing and magnificent architecture, art and craft structure in the city. Sawai Jai Singh built its many buildings but some of some of the structures were also built by later rulers and some of them are even dated in the in the twentieth century too. The palace is a blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture and the royal family still lives in a part of the palace.
The Jantar Mantar is a collection of architectural astronomical instruments, built by Sawai Jai Singh who was a Mughal Commander and served Emperor Aurangzeb and later Mughals. The title of (King) and Sawai was bestowed on him by Emperor Mohammad Shah. Jai Singh II of Amber built his new capital of Jaipur between 1727 and 1734. It is also located in Ujjain and Mathura.
The Hawa Mahal (The Palace of winds), which adjoins the famous City Palace wall, was built in 1799 by Maharaja SawaiPratap Singh and has now become one of the major landmarks of Jaipur. The palace is shaped like a pyramid and is a five-storied building, with number of small windows and screens, with arched roofs.
Overnight stay at hotel
Day 05: Jaipur - FatehpurSikri – Agra (04 hrs drive)
- Breakfast at hotel
- Leave Jaipur for Agra enroute visit Fatehpur Sikri.
- Arrive Agra check In at hotel
- Overnight stay at hotel
Morning after breakfast drive to Agra enroute visit Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri is a city and a municipal board in Agra district in thestate of Uttar Pradesh, India. The city was founded in 1569 by the Mughal emperor Akbar, and served as the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 to 1585. After his military victories over Chittor and Ranthambore, Akbar decided to shift his capital from Agra to a new location 23 miles (37 km) W.S.W on the Sikri ridge, to honor the Sufi saint Salim Chishti. Here he commenced the construction of a planned walled city which took the next fifteen years in planning and construction of a series of royal palaces, harem, courts, a mosque, private quarters and other utility buildings.He named the city, Fatehabad, with Fateh, a word of Arabic origin in Persian, meaning "victorious." it was later called Fatehpur Sikri. It is at Fatehpur Sikri that the legends of Akbar and his famed courtiers, the nine jewels or Navaratnas, were born. Fatehpur Sikri is one of the best preserved collections of Indian Mughal architecture in India
Arrive Agra & check in at hotel
Overnight stay at hotel
Day 06: Agra – Delhi (Approx 4 hrs drive)
- Early morning visit Taj Mahal
- Breakfast at hotel
- After breakfast Visiting Agra fort
- Later, drive to Agra and transfer to Delhi International Airport
Early morning at the time of sun rise visiting Taj mahal,
Taj Mahal from Persian and Arabic, “crown of palaces", pronounced is a white marble mausoleum located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India.Commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to house the tomb of his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal stands on the southern bank of the Yamuna River. The mausoleum is widely recognized as "the jewel of Muslim art in India" and remains as one of the world’s most celebrated structures and a symbol of India’s rich history.
Note: Taj Mahal is closed on Friday.
Return to hotel for breakfast
Morning after breakfast Visiting Agra Fort and straight drive to Delhi International Airport.
The present-day structure was built by the Mughals, though a fort had stood there since at least the 11th century. Agra Fort was originally a brick fort known as Badalgarh, held by Raja Badal Singh Hindu Sikarwar Rajput king (c. 1475). It was mentioned for the first time in 1080 AD when a Ghaznavide force captured it. Sikandar Lodi (1488–1517) was the first Sultan of Delhi who shifted to Agra and lived in the fort. He governed the country from here and Agra assumed the importance of the second capital. He died in the fort at 1517 and his son, Ibrahim Lodi, held it for nine years until he was defeated and killed at Panipat in 1526. Several palaces, wells and a mosque were built by him in the fort during his period.Hemu who won Agra in 1553 and again 1556 defeating Akbar's armyAfter the First Battle of Panipat in 1526, Mughals captured the fort and seized a vast treasure, including the diamond later known as the Koh-i-Noor. The victorious Babur stayed in the fort in the palace of Ibrahim and built a baoli (step well) in it. The emperor Humayun was crowned here in 1530. Humayun was defeated at Bilgram in 1540 by Sher Shah. The fort remained with Suris till 1555, when Humanyun recaptured it. The Hindu king Hem Chandra Vikramaditya, also called 'Hemu', defeated Humanyun's army, led by Iskandar Khan Uzbek, and won Agra.
In time transfer to Delhi International airport to connect flight for back to home.
END OF OUR SERVICES
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NOTE – THE MENTIONED DRIVING TIMES ARE APPROX AND BASED ON NORMAL TRAFFIC CONDITIONS, HOWEVER THE SAME MAY CHANGE/DIFFER DUE TO HEAVY TRAFFIC / JAM ON THE ROADS
Based on above program our net rates work out as under:-
| No. of Pax | Per Person Cost (5* Hotel) |
| 01 PAX | USD 1200 per person on single sharing |
| 02 PAX | USD 650 per person on twin sharing |
| 03 PAX | USD 550 per person on twin sharing |
| 04 - 06 PAX | USD 541 per person on twin sharing |
| Single Room Supplement | USD 260 per Single room |
VALIDITY –1ST OCTOBER 2015 TO 31ST MARCH 2016 (EXCEPT 20TH DECEMBER 2015 TILL 10TH JANUARY 2016)
HOTELS DETAIL
| CITY | HOTEL NAME 5* | NO. OF NIGHTS |
| DELHI | RADISSON DWARKA / SUPERIOR | 2 |
| JAIPUR | HILTON / GUEST ROOM | 2 |
| AGRA | DOUBLE TREE / GUEST ROOM | 1 |
Above rates include:-
- Accommodation sharing Double room total for 05 nights at above mentioned Hotels on CP (Bed+ Breakfast) Basis
- Arrival/Departure transfers, sightseeing, excursion by an air conditioned vehicle.
- English speaking local guide for Sightseeing.
- Elephant/Jeep ride at Amber fort.
- Rickshaw Ride at old Delhi
- Monument entrance fees.
- All applicable taxes.
However above rates do not include:-
- Any airfare on International & Domestic airlines, insurance etc.
- Expenses of personal nature such as telephone, internet, laundry, Mineral water or any Mini bar item unless complimentary by hotel, tips to the driver or at restaurant, porterage at airport or at hotel, camera fee etc.
- Unspecified meals and services.
Classical India
Friday, 26 June 2015 17:40Package Details
DELHI – JAIPUR – AGRA – KHAJURAHO – VARANASI – DELHI
07 Nights – 08 Days
Day 01: Arrival – Delhi (04 hrs drive)
- Arrive Delhi
- Check in at hotel
- Overnight stay at hotel
Morning Arrive Delhi international airport. Our representative will meet and greet you at airport and transfer to Hotel
Check in at hotel
Delhi, officially the National Capital Territory of Delhi, is the Capital territory of India.[3] It has a population of about 11 million and a metropolitan population of about 16.3 million, making it the second most populous city and second most populous urban agglomeration in India. Such is the nature of urban expansion in Delhi that its growth has expanded beyond the NCT to incorporate towns in neighbouring states and at its largest extent can count a population of about 25 million residents as of 2014
Overnight stay at hotel
INDIA
Friday, 26 June 2015 09:52History
Indian history dates back to 3000 BC. Excavations in Punjab and Gujarat reveal that the Indus Valley civilisation was a highly developed urban civilisation. In fact the two cities of Harappa and Mohenjodaro, situated on two sides of the river Ravi , are known to have been built on a similar plan. But that only meant a new wave of urbanisation was taking place along the Ganges around 1500 BC. This has been recorded in the Rig Veda - the earliest known literary source composed in this period that sheds light on India 's past.
By 6th century BC, the Magadh rulers dominated the Northern plains. It was also the time when new thinking emerged in the form of Buddhism and Jainism to challenge Hindu orthodoxy. The Magadh rule was followed by the rule of Chandragupta Maurya (322-298 B.C.), one of India 's greatest emperors. The Mauryan reign peaked under the reign of Ashoka the Great who extended his empire from the Kashmir and Peshawar in the North to Mysore in the South and Orissa in the East. Not only was Ashoka a great ruler, he was one of the most successful propagators of Buddhism in the country. After Ashoka's death in 232 B.C. the empire began to disintegrate and the country was repeatedly raided and plundered by foreign invaders, leaving India disunited and weak for the next 400 years. Stability returned with the reign of Chandra Gupta I (380-412 A.D.). His rule is considered the golden period in Indian history when art and culture flourished and the country prospered.Check out our recommended travel packages.
Unlike the North of India, foreign invasions had little impact on life in South India which also saw the rise and decline of many empires. These included the Cholas whose rule extended to Sri Lanka and South East Asia , the Pandyas, the Cheras, the Pallavas and the Chalukyas. Under the various rulers, arts and craft in the South also saw the emergence of various styles of architecture and some of the grandest architectural accomplishments in the South - the most famous being the exquisitely crafted Chola bronzes. These were followed by the Hoysala and the Vijaynagar empires - among the greatest Hindu empires.
The Muslim Invasions
The first Muslim invasions of the country started with the Mahmud of Gazni, who plundered the sub-continent for its riches between 1001 and 1025. Later Mohamed Ghori defeated Prithviraj Chauhan, the Tomar ruler of Delhi and left it in charge of his deputy, Qutub-ud-din, the man who built the QutubMinar in Delhi . His rule was followed by that of the Khilji, Tughlaq, Sayyid and Lodi dynasties. Known as the Sultanate of Delhi, it was during this period that the Muslim rulers introduced Islamic concepts of society and governance to most of the sub-continent, though the South remained largely untouched.
In 1525, Babur, a descendant of Timur, as well as Genghis Khan invaded Punjab and eventually founded the Mughal empire in India . His rule was followed by that of his son Humayun. Humayun was ousted by Afghan chieftain Sher Shah but resumed power after Sher Shah's death. Sher Shah is, however, remembered as the one to build the Grand Trunk road spanning from Peshawar to Patna .Humayun's reign was followed up by his son Akbar who actually consolidated power and extended the empire across North India and parts of South India . One of India 's wisest rulers and most able administrators, Akbar's reign is considered to be one of the best the country has known. Akbar was succeeded by Jahangir, followed by his son Shah Jahan - best known as the builder of the Taj Mahal, the Red Fort and the Jama Masjid. Shah Jahan's reign was followed by Aurangzeb's. The death of Aurangzeb saw the decline of the Mughal rule in India.
British Rule
Over the centuries India had always been attractive to traders, and one of the first Europeans to come to India was the Portuguese trader Vasco da Gama who landed at Calicut , sailing via the Cape of Good Hope in 1498. The Portuguese established their colony in Goa in the 16th Century but they did not expand it though their rule continued till 1961. Vasco da Gama was followed by the French, the Dutch and the English, all of whom were lured by the commercial interests that India offered. By the last quarter of the 18th century the English established themselves as the dominant power in India and they set about making revolutionary changes in the social, political and the economic life of the country.
Towards Independence
The disintegration of the Mughal empire, fighting among the Maratha rulers and inability of the various rulers across the country to unite against a common enemy saw the British consolidate their position in the country. However, the 19th century saw a revival of national pride and social reform and the Indians began to tire of the suppressive British rule. Things reached a flash point in the second half of the 19th century when the first war of independence in 1857 broke out in Meerut . It was sparked off by the introduction of a new rifle and cartridge by the British in the Army. The cartridges which soldiers had to bite off, allegedly contained pork and beef tallow, which offended the religious sentiments of both Hindus and Muslims. The soldiers rebelled, reached Delhi and proclaimed Bahadurshah Zafar the sovereign ruler of India . They were eventually overpowered by the British.
But there was no looking back for the Indians who wanted social reform and freedom. The Indian National Congress was set up and educated Indians started formulating strategies to assert their birthright to independence. The anti-British sentiment became a mass movement with the arrival of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi who devised a unique strategy for India 's freedom struggle based on non-violence and civil disobedience. He conceived and led the non-cooperation movement in 1922, the Salt Satyagraha in 1930 and the Quit India Movement in 1942. All of which pushed the British into agreeing to transfer power on August 15, 1947, the day that is now celebrated as India 's Independence Day. Today, India is the world's largest democracy with a federal form of government
Tourism in India has shown a phenomenal growth in the past decade. One of the reasons is that the Ministry of tourism, India has realized the immense potential of tourism in India during vacations. India travel tourism has grown rapidly with a great influx of tourists from all across the globe who have been irresistibly attracted to the rich culture, heritage, and incredible natural beauty of India.
India tourism with its foggy hill stations, captivating beaches, historical monuments, golden deserts, serene backwaters, pilgrimage sites, rich wildlife, and colourful fairs capture the heart of every tourist. In addition, a variety of festivals, lively markets, vibrant lifestyle, and traditional Indian hospitality, will make your experience as an india tourist truly unforgettable and fantastic.
Travel through the lovely Indian states and discover closely the resplendent colors and rich cultural locales of this incredible land. Our India tourism guide provides you a glimpse of travel and tourism in india ,india tourism information about south india tourism, north India tourism, and all the major tourist destinations, and tourism services of India.
The Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2013 ranks India 65th out of 144 countries overall. The report ranks the price competitiveness of India's tourism sector 20th out of 144 countries. It mentions that India has quite good air transport (ranked 39th), particularly given the country’s stage of development, and reasonable ground transport infrastructure (ranked 42nd). Some other aspects of its tourism infrastructure remain somewhat underdeveloped however. The nation has very few hotel rooms per capita by international comparison and low ATM penetration. The World Tourism Organization reported that India's receipts from tourism during 2012 ranked 16th in the world, and 7th among Asian and Pacific countries
Royal Accommodation
One of the chief pleasures of visiting India is staying at a palace hotel. Take a look at the accommodations in India where you can taste the high life.
Historic properties
- Laxmi Niwas Palace, Lallgarh Complex, Bikaner Built in the early 20th century in memory of Maharaja Ganga Singh?s father, the sprawling 42-room red sandstone structure is renowned for its opulent architecture. The palace features a collection of rare Sanskrit manuscripts and a museum with possessions of the late maharajas, including British tin soldiers.
- Samode Palace, Samode A 19th century family fortress run by descendants of Jaipur?s former Prime Minister RawalSheo Singh. Family photos line the walls in several of the 43 room, which feature durries rugs and antique canopy beds; a few rooms have their own fountain.
- Udai Bilas Palace, Dungapur The wings of this royal residence surround the intricately carved EK Thambia Mahal, or one pillared palace, creating an atmospheric courtyard. Inlaid walls embellish the grand suite, one of 20 distinctive rooms. Guests dine at a banquet table beneath a Burmese teak ceiling, while mounted animal heads add a Raj-era-feel.
- UmaidBhawan Palace, Jodhpur Known as Chhittar Palace for the namesake sandstone of its stately exterior, the immense art deco edifice remains the residence of the Maharaja of Jodhpur and features 47 guest rooms. Indian cuisine is served at the buffet-style Marwar Hall; the Pillars, and open ? ? air eatery overlooks the lawns.
Ayurveda - The new balm for fevered souls
When alternative lifestyles and stressful schedules are talking points in the cosmopolitan circuits, Ayurveda, the art of ancient Indian healing cannot be far behind. The inability of modern allopathy to allay all sicknesses and diseases has made an increasing number of people turn to ayurveda, which has a cornucopia of ancient secret cures for stubborn diseases. Along with yoga, Ayurveda is the new balm for fevered souls. It uses natural herbs and their oils to treat ailments and ensure a healthy life. Most of the centres for Ayurveda, called Ayurveda Shalas, are in Kerala on the South Coast. This is beach country as well, so bring along your sunscreens and hats. In fact many westerners have made ayurvedic spas their annual treat, combining a relaxing holiday with cleansing for their bodies.
Ayurvedic Massages
Say "massage" in the context of an Asian country, and the first thoughts that come flooding in are those of the exotic massage parlors of Pattaya. But an ayurvedic massage is the real thing. These are serious life-enriching massages, so be prepared to get some energetic flesh pounding from experts. While you soak in the herbs you can watch the beaches of Vizhinjam packed with boats out to sail in the sunset. From the beach you can see their lights strung out like pearls in a necklace from the coast. Look forward to being draped with pieces of linen, dipped in lukewarm herbal oils, all over the body by two to four trained therapists in a special rhythmic way. This goes on continuously for about 60 to 90 minutes per day for a period of 7 to 21 days, and is said to be an effective remedy for rheumatic diseases. It's supposed to be good for your nerves too and should pep up your overall energy levels as well
Adventure Sports
Blessed with snow-clad peaks, crystal glaciers, rolling meadows, beautiful valleys, meandering rivers, gushing waterfalls, thick forests, swampy deltas and magical moonscapes - India has something for everyone looking for adventure, however thrilling or risky it may be, it is recommended that every traveler has Travel Insurance as back up.
Up North, the Himalayan ranges that stretch across the country are the most intimidating, enthralling and beautiful mountains in the world. They offer the ultimate challenge to any adventurer whatever their pursuit - mountaineering, rock climbing, trekking or white water rafting. For any mountaineer the Himalayas are a perennial challenge. And with their ever-changing terrain, there is something new to see in every season and every region, be it the gentle slopes of the Garhwaland Kumaon region, the sharp ragged gorges of Himachal Pradesh, the pristine untouched beauty of Sikkim or the fantastic moonscapes of Jammu and Kashmir. Climbing these mountains is a spiritual experience that will make you keep coming back for more.
Trekking
If mountaineering is not your scene, but you still want to savour the beauty of these mighty mountains, try trekking. From the foothills to the higher ranges, mountain trails - many of them unexplored - are a great way to experience the Himalayas . Some of the best trekking routes on the mountain sides are in the Garhwal and Kumaon regions of Uttranchal, Chamba and Manali in Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Zanskar and Spiti in Jammu and Kashmir, Sikkim and the virtually untouched north eastern states of India. Trekking is one of the best ways to enjoy the panoramic and magnificent sites of the awesome mountains- the rivers, flora and fauna. The best part is that virtually anyone can go on a trek.
Of course, for the more energetic, the Himalayan mountain ranges offer other adventure opportunities like rock climbing, heli-skiing, hang gliding, mountain biking and even paragliding.
Water sports
If you like water sports, again the Himalayas offer you some of the best river runs in the world. The foaming rapids on the Ganges in Rishikesh, Uttaranchal, the Beas in Himachal Pradesh and Teetsa in Sikkim are some of the toughest and most exciting you can find anywhere.
Further South you can enjoy the water adventures along both the west and the east coasts of India . The islands of Andaman and Nicobar in the Bay of Bengal and Lakshadweep in the Indian Ocean are virtually untouched and are some of the best spots for scuba diving and snorkeling. The beaches of Goa and Kerala also offer other sporting opportunities like water skiing, wind surfing and sailing.
Safaris
Also unique are India 's jungle and desert safaris. In fact one of the most magical ways to discover the sands of Rajasthan, especially the unending sand dunes of Jaisalmer and Bikaner, is on camel back. Today, many heritage resorts run by erstwhile royalty also give you the option of enjoying the countryside on horseback, by far the best way to explore the countryside, see its' remote forts and palaces, and interact with its people.
Parks and Sanctuaries
Similarly, exploring India 's many wildlife parks and sanctuaries on elephant back is a unique experience. Most tiger and rhino sanctuaries offer this option and it's a better way of viewing wildlife than using a noisy jeep safari.
Other adventure activities available in the country are:
Sailing on the West coast in Mumbai, Goa and the lakes around Pune Polo in Rajasthan and Delhi
Ballooning, facilities for which are available for amateurs and professionals across the country
Whether you like living life on the edge, or you just want to enjoy the occasional thrill of the unknown, India has something for everyone.
Sun, surf and sand beck on thousands of sun-deprived tourists to India because it has the most mind-boggling varieties of beaches anywhere in the world. Placid lagoons and backwaters, marine estuaries teeming with fish, bays and rough lava-rocked seas, crashing surf, pure powdery golden sand or palm fringed shores where the mind is soothed by serene murmurs of the sea - you have them all.
Both the West and East Coast of India offer verdant vistas of palm on the Arabian Sea shores or the Bay of Bengal. The coasts of India have their own seafood cuisine, relaxing spas, diving and water sports and great places to stay for a balmy holiday. Set amidst the blue of the Arabian Sea and the lush green vegetation of Kerala, Kovalam is one of India 's best sea resorts. The long coastline lined with swaying coconut palm trees and dotted with an occasional fishing hamlet is fast developing into one of the world's best string of beaches.
Wake up to the yoga exercises in the morning and close your eyes to the tender fingers massaging your body in the finest traditions of herbal massages. The sea applauds the beach temple in Mahabalipuram, gloriously silhouetted against the spectrum of the seven colors in the sky. Puri, on the East Coast, is surely the world's most picturesque beach. And then there is Digha, a three-hour drive out of Kolkata, a beautiful beach, splendid in its isolation.
PILGRIMAGE Tours
India has always been considered the land of spirituality. Though Hinduism continues to be the oldest religion in the country, India has been the birthplace of various religions like Bhuddism, Jainism, Sikhism and Sufism, and has always embraced new religions that other cultures brought into the country.
It is considered a milestone in a person's life and a char dhamsyatra - a visit to the holy sites at cardinal points of the country - a necessity for the regeneration of the spirit. These points lie across the subcontinent. In the north they are the snow-capped mountains of Badrinath, Kedarnath and Amarnath. In central India , one of the holiest places to visit is Benares, Prayaga ( Allahabad ) where the KumbhMela is held, and Mathura - the birth place of Lord Krishna. In the East lies Puri in Orissa famous for its Jagannath Temple and its RathYatra. In the South is Rameswaram and KanyaKumari and in the west is Dwaraka - the kingdom of Lord Krishna . But these aren't all the places that the Hindus take a pilgrimage to. Places like Tirupati, Vaishnodevi, Shirdi, Shabrimala, Tajore and Madurai towns are famous for their temples and shrines and very much on a must-visit list.
Several famous temples across the country also have their own unique festivals and yatras. In fact India is home to the largest religious gathering which takes place every 12 years - the KumbhMela. Whether it is a spiritual experience you seek or want to understand the depth and diversity of religion - this is the land with the answers
FOOD
To begin, let me assure you that Indian food in India is quite unlike Indian food served in the West. Regretably however, Indian resorts are not adventurous when it comes to food.
For breakfast all resorts do offer eggs (in any form), toast, and cornflakes, but sausages, ham, bacon etc. may not always be available. Fresh seasonal fruit and juice is also served. An Indian breakfast consists of steamed rice cakes called idlis served with a spicy sauce. Alternatively one may be served a dosa which is not unlike a thin flat pancake with an accompaniment made from potato; or puris which are unleavened Indian bread also served with a dish made from potatoes.
For lunch and dinner the staple Indian base consists of white rice or Indian bread which usually consists of the roti and the nan. Pappadoms and a variety of spicy accompaniments such as chutneys and pickles are also served. Curries both vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian are served with the staple. Most non-vegetarian dishes are made with chicken because of the difficulty of procuring lamb or pork in the remoter resorts.
Starters in the evening, in the form of tandoori food and kebabs, come highly recommended.
Keeping visitors from abroad in mind, the food is not over spiced.
Most resorts do offer Western food, called Continental food in India, but remember that the quality may be indifferent and that it is cooked with Indian ingredients.
In India several dishes are brought to the table and shared among the diners. However, if you prefer to order something just for yourself, feel free to do so.
Travel in India is best done by air. Failing which one travels by train. Unfortunately Indian trains are not known for their comfort. If you have to travel by train, the air-conditioned second class compartments are recommended. They are cleaner and the air-conditioning is often necessary and will keep you, and your film, cool. In railway booking parlance these coaches are known as 2A.
Most importantly, your fellow passengers are middle class Indians, always safer when you are carrying expensive equipment. Importantly, the doors to the compartment are locked at night so there is less chance of somebody entering the compartment and making off with with your cameras. Never leave your bags unattended. I carry my equipment in a small LowePro bag. A bag of this size can fit up on the sleeper berth with you. You can lie down though you will not be able to sleep, a small price to pay to ensure the safety of your equipment. Secondly, should you need the toilet, a small bag can be carried with you.
If traveling by road, we recommend hiring a Toyota Qualis. The NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) levels are the best in India, and the rear AC ducts are fabulous.
In most places people traveling on a tour organized by wildphototoursindia.com will experience middle class India. You may dress as you like but Indians do not take kindly to uncovered bodies. Shorts are in, semi-nudity is out. Stick to cotton and avoid denim.
The communication network in India is considerably reliable. STD/ISD booths are available on almost every corner throughout the country. Cyber Cafes and hotels also provide calling and internet facilities, which makes local and international calling easy for the tourists. Due to this making calls to India and from India is easy and cheap.
Most problems occur when backpackers, in the hope of experiencing the chimera of the 'real' India, go to rough neighbourhoods dressed as they would dress on a hot summer's day in the West.
With regard to medication, consult your doctor at home. Common ailments may be treated with a range of locally available medication, but if you have special requirements bring them along with you. Travel insurance that includes cover for medical/hospital expenses is strongly recommended.
Special Maldives Packages - Bandos Island Resort &Spa
Friday, 26 June 2015 06:16| Standard Rooms | |||
| Price based on 2 pax – Double sharing basis All Prices are on US$ | |||
| Bed & Breakfast Basis | 26/06 - 31/07 | 01/08 - 31/08 | 01/09 - 31/10 |
| 4 Days 3 Nights | 960 | 1085 | 1000 |
| 5 Days 4 Nights | 1200 | 1365 | 1255 |
| 7 Days 6 Nights | 1670 | 1930 | 1765 |
Price Includes
- Accommodation as specified above (based on 2 pax)
- Meals on Bed & Breakfast basis
- Combined return speed boat transfers
- Meet & Assistance at the airport
- All the taxes
Remarks
- Above is a quotation only, rooms are subject to availability
- Rates are not valid for Chinese market
Special Maldives Packages - Paradise Island Resort & Spa
Friday, 26 June 2015 06:05| Superior Beach Bungalows | |||
| Price based on 2 pax – Double sharing basis All Prices are on US$ | |||
| Half Board basis | 26/06 - 25/07 | 26/07 - 31/08 | 01/09 - 31/10 |
| 4 Days 3 Nights | 985 | 1230 | 1040 |
| 5 Days 4 Nights | 1195 | 1515 | 1270 |
| 7 Days 6 Nights | 1615 | 2095 | 1725 |
Price Includes
- Accommodation as specified above (based on 2 pax)
- Meals on Half Board basis
- Combined return speed boat transfers
- Meet & Assistance at the airport
- All the taxes
Remarks
- Above is a quotation only, rooms are subject to availability
- Rates are not valid for Chinese market
Special Maldives Packages - Fihalhohi Island Resort
Friday, 26 June 2015 05:44| Classic Rooms | ||||
| Price based on 2 pax – Double sharing basis All Prices are on US$ | ||||
| Full Board basis | 26/06 - 25/07 | 26/07 - 30/09 | 01/10 - 07/10 | 07/10 - 31/10 |
| 4 Days 3 Nights | 1030 | 1140 | 1170 | 1045 |
| 5 Days 4 Nights | 1230 | 1380 | 1420 | 1250 |
| 7 Days 6 Nights | 1630 | 1850 | 1910 | 1660 |
Price Includes
- Accommodation as specified above(based on 2 pax)
- Meals on Half Board basis
- Combined return speed boat transfers from 0600 hrs to 1800hrs - (flights landing after 1800 hrs till 2100hrs there will be a surcharge of US$ 30 per person, one way)
- Meet & Assistance at the airport
- All the taxes
Remarks
- Above is a quotation only, rooms are subject to availability
Special Maldives Packages - Fun Island Resort
Friday, 26 June 2015 05:32| Beach Front Rooms | |||
| Price based on 2 pax – Double sharing basis All Prices are on US$ | |||
| Full Board basis | 26/06 - 25/07 | 26/07 - 31/08 | 01/09 - 31/10 |
| 4 Days 3 Nights | 915 | 1105 | 930 |
| 5 Days 4 Nights | 1085 | 1340 | 1105 |
| 7 Days 6 Nights | 1430 | 1810 | 1460 |
Price Includes
- Accommodation as specified above(based on 2 pax)
- Meals on Full Board basis
- Combined return speed boat transfers
- Meet & Assistance at the airport
- All the taxes
Remarks
- Above is a quotation only, rooms are subject to availability
- Rates are not valid for Chinese market
Exclusive Golf Tour to South Africa
Monday, 22 June 2015 15:02Day 1: Arrive at Johannesburg with the KLM flight???? Overnight at a hotel near the airport. Peermont Metcourt or similar.
Day 2: Today we leave our hotel for a long drive via the Panorama route, Gods Window (Wonderview), the Bourkes Luck Potholes and the Blyde River Canyon. Lunch en route. We arrive at the Hans Merensky Golf resort in the late afternoon where we will overnight for 2 nights.
Day 3: Today you play golf on the par 72 Hans Merensky course 18 holes with wildlife in abundance. Overnight again at the Hans Merensky resort.
Day 4: We leave very early with breakfast packs and enter the Kruger National Park. Your guide have worked in this park as a game ranger for 7 years and will give you all the information and history of this world famous park . Today we will all day drive through the park and we will overnight at the Kruger Gate Lodge.
Day 5: Today we play golf inside the Kruger Park at the Skukuza golf course . 9 holes par 72. This is one of the worlds most unieqe golf courses in the world, the only place where you might meet up with a lion or elephant on the course. Optional golf carts are available for those that are not to brave. (Africa is not for sissies). Tonight we again overnight at another lodge the Kruger Park. Jock’s Safari Lodge very exclusive, dinner included.
Day 6: We leave our lodge at 08h00 to play golf this morning at the world renowned Leopard Creek golf course. 18 holes par 72 Gary Player designed. We will overnight at a lodge outside the southern border of the Kruger Park.
Day 7: Today we fly to Cape Town directly. This domestic flight take around 32 hours and 30 min. After arrival and check in at our hotel we will try and visit Table Mountain (one of the 7 natural wonders of the world). Cape Town is rightly known as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. We overnight at Cape Town lodge or similar.
Day 8: Another golfing day. There are many courses to choose from. We can decide which one will be suitable for you.
Day 9: Today is a golf free day. We will visit Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope(the most south western tip of Africa. After lunch we can also visit the penguin colony at Simons town and also the Cape Point Ostrich farm. We will back at our hotel in the late afternoon.
Day 10: We will drive to our next destination via Stellenbosch where we will do some wine tasting. In the late afternoon we will arrive at the well known Fancourt Country Club. Where we will overnight for the next two nights.
Day 11: Today we play at one of the 3 Gary Player designed golf courses. This is a day of golf smorgasbord. Enjoy. Again we overnight at Fancourt.
Day 12: Today is our last day on tour. We will fly to Johannesburg in the afternoon and connect with your flight to Europe.
It is a fact that this tour is a luxury tour and only 8 guests will be allowed per tour. Very personalized service is guaranteed with a registered national tour/field guide and a female tour leader/hostess in attendance to ensure everything will be done to ensure you enjoy your tour.
Prices include all transport in a 12 seater minibus, 2 domestic flights, accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis and also green fees as well as the service of the guide and tour leader as well as all excursions. Dinner at Jock’s Safari Lodge is included.
Not included is the return flight from Europe, golf club hire, lunch and dinner and all tips etc.
Best of South Africa
Monday, 22 June 2015 15:00Day 1: Arrive in South Africa ex KLM 0591???? Land at 21h10 in Johannesburg. Overnight at the Metcourt hotel or similar near the airport.
Day 2: Depart for Pretoria (capital City of SA) to visit the Voortrekker monument. Thereafter depart for the Mpumalanga province. Lunch en route and stop for some shopping of wine etc. overnight at Misty Mountain Chalets high in the Long Tom Pass. Or similar in the area.
Day 3: Today we visit the Panorama route. Blyde River Canyon (third largest canyon in the world),Bourkes Luck Potholes and Wonderview (Gods Window). After lunch we will travel to our hotel in the Lowveld near the Kruger National Park. Numbi Hotel or similar for 2 nights.
Day 4: After a very early wake up we continue to the Kruger Park for a Jeep safari. Half day safari (optional full day). Spend the afternoon next to the swimming pool at the hotel. Overnight at hotel for second night.
Day 5: We depart at around 08h00 for Swaziland. Lunch after we crossed the border into Swaziland. Stop at a craft market for souvenirs and at the glass factory. Overnight at Mantenga Lodge or similar.
Day 6: We leave Swaziland after a visit to the candle factory and market. Continue to South Africa, Kwa Zulu Natal Province. Here we will overnight at Ezulweni Game Lodge or similar.
Day 7: Today we do a morning safari in the Hluhluwe park where we again have the chance to see the big 5. This park is very well known for all the rhinos found here and the lovely landscape. Overnight again at Ezulweni lodge or similar/
Day 8: This morning we leave our lodge and en route we will do a boat cruise on Lake St Lucia, a world natural heritage site, to see lots of hippos. Then to the BEACH for a few hours of sun and fun. Thereafter we continue to Durban and overnight at the Balmoral Hotel or similar.
Day 9: We leave our hotel very early for our domestic flight to Port Elizabeth. After our arrival we meet up with our new bus and travel to Tsitsikamma National Park for a hike to the suspension bridge and lunch. Then we travel to Knysna where we will overnight at the Graywood Hotel for 2 nights.
Day 10: Today most of the day is spend at leisure and there is a lot to do in Knysna. At 17h30 we depart to the Waterfront to board our boat for our sundowner cruise with dinner included. Thereafter back to the hotel for some drinks and off to bed.
Day 11: We leave Knysna for Stellenbosch where we will overnight at the Stellenbosch Hotel or similar. Lunch en route at the historical town of Swellendam.
Day 12: Today we leave the hotel at around 09h30 to visit Franschoek and then wine tasting, where after we travel to Cape Town and visit Table Mountain one of the seven natural wonders of the world (weather permitting), if not we still have a few more days to do that. Overnight at the Holiday Inn Express or similar.
Day 13: We have a full day today as we visit Cape Point and the Penguin colony at Boulders (Simonstown). Also we will visit the Cape Point Ostrich farm. We will travel via Chapman’s Peak drive (if it is open). This is one of the most beautiful drives in Africa. This afternoon we can visit the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront complex where there are a lot to do.
Day 14: It is our last day today and you are free to do what you want. You can go to one of the beaches or visit Robben Island. There is also a Hop on Hop off bus that go to all the places of interest.(optional). We depart for the airport for your flight to Amsterdam at 20h30.
This tour is on a bed and breakfast basis. Porterage and also the domestic flight between Durban and Port Elizabeth is included. These tours will be guided by a registered national tour guide that can speak Dutch.
Dinner and lunch are not included.
