PROGRAMME Ms. Susan Forbes Snead and Ms. Kelley Forbes Snead c/o Expert Escapes, a division of Andavo, USA Tel. 001-415-889-5161 (India visit 01st to 11th April 2013)
02nd April 2013 Tuesday Arrival in New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport by Turkish Airways flight at 0420 hrs.. Amber Tours car and representative will be at the International airport to receive you, please do keep a lookout for him once you clear customs and walk towards the exit gate in the arrival terminal. The rep. will be holding an Amber Tours placard in your names. Assistance with luggage etc. and transfer to The Oberoi New Delhi where reservation of Premier room is made for immediate check-in (Room is reserved from 01st April 2013 for immediate check-in. - Approx 45 mins drive from Airport to hotel. )
THE OBEROI, Dr. Zakir Hussain Marg, New Delhi Tel: 00-91-11-24363030 and Fax: 00-91-11-24360484
The Oberoi Hotel is located adjacent to the private Delhi Golf Club and on the opposite side the room overlooks the Humayun's Tomb which has been specially illuminated in the evenings by the Oberoi Group. The Oberoi has many dining options - The Taipan - Chinese, Avery popular Multicuisine restaurant – ‘360’ as well as Travertino – recently Launched in association with Hotel Hassler, Rome, the restaurant. Travertino also offers an extensive Italian wine selection from the enoteca wine cellar. The Hotel has a large swimming pool with water cascades and the wonderful Oberoi Spa with a state-of-the-Art Gym and 20 Meter Indoor Lap pool.
DELHI – Capital for many ancient and medieval Empires. The city of Delhi was built on the banks of the Yamuna River and the history of Delhi dates back more than 3000 years. Indraprastha according to legends, was the old Capital of Delhi and founded by the Pandavas in the times of the Mahabharat 1500 B.C. and was located near the Old Fort. Today the city is a unique blend of Old and New which is very evident in the two parts – Old Delhi and New Delhi the latter mainly built by the British.
The capital of the world’s largest democracy, Delhi has been the seat of power of several ancient and medieval empires. Today a sprawling metropolis, it is built around seven historic cities, the earliest dating from the 12th century. Delhi is a curious fusion of the past and present – its landscape is punctuated with historical monuments that rub shoulders with trendy shopping malls and luxury hotels. Home to a population of around 14 million, Delhi is a bustling, lively, and energetic city with a vibrant nightlife and an intriguing cultural scene. It enchants with its beautifully preserved architecture, its delectable cuisine, and excellent shopping. Discover Delhi like never before with Amber Tours. With an expert from Amber, you will get a whole new insight into the history, background, culture, and influences that make up this wonderful city.
- Page 2 of the programme - (Contd. 02nd Apr…) Breakfast at the hotel 1200 hrs. car and guide will report to hotel and provide sightseeing of Old Delhi with driver past Red Fort - built by Emperor Shah Jehan in 1638 of the Mughal Dynasty.
Opposite the Red fort is the Jama Masjid – the mosque also built by Shah Jehan and is the largest in India.
A Rickshaw ride through the Market Place of Chandini Chowk (Moonlit Square) will be provided through the narrow lanes famous for its small silver stores, antique, Indian Saree shops. Incense and ‘Ittar’ (the raw form of perfume products) Also visit the Kinari Bazaar (bridal Market) and the Spice market both of which offer a wonderful photo- opportunity.
Visit to Raj Ghat where Mahatama Gandhi was cremated on 31st January 1948 – this is small black marble platform surrounded by lush green park
Continue sightseeing New Delhi with drive past the India Gate and Presidential Palace area (photostops) known as Raj Path (Kings Way) is a wonderfully planned wide boulevard with ornamental ponds on each side and trees that are now more than 100 years old that the British had planted to give shade in the summer and are pollen free. An integral part of Lutyen’s Delhi – At the eastern end of Rajpath is India Gate – 42 meter high Stone memorial constructed to commemorate who died in the North Eastern Frontier (towards Afghanistan) and nearly 85000 names are inscribed on the walls. At the far West side of the Boulevard is Rastrapati Bhawan (Presidential Palace) – the home of the former Viceroy of India and now the Residence of the President of India. The building was completed in 1929 and is an interesting blend of both Mughal and Western Architectural styles (visit inside the Palace is not permitted due to security reasons).
Visit to the Birla House where Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated and is now a very interesting Museum on his life and ideology.
Tonight dinner hosted by Ms. Shanti Kohli (MD Amber Tours) at her country home
- Page 3 of the programme -
03rd April 2013 Wednesday 0530 hrs. Amber Tours car and driver will report to the hotel and provide transfer to the railway station for express train to Agra.
Departure Delhi Shatabdi Express 0600 hrs. Arrival Agra 0800 hrs. (Air-conditioned Executive class seats will be reserved and an Amber Tours representative will travel on the train It is advisable to carry a sweater or shawl for the train journey as the air-conditioning may get quite effective on board. Also please do carry soap and tissue paper as the facilities on board don’t provide the same.)
Meeting and assistance on arrival at Agra Railway station and transfer by Air-conditioned car to Oberoi Amarvilas Resort where accommodation of Premier double room overlooking Taj Mahal is reserved (Please note hotel check- in time is 1400 hrs. – early check-in is requested which is subject to availability)
THE AMAR VILAS, Taj East Gate Road, Taj Nagri Scheme, Agra Tel: 00-91-562-2231515 and Fax: 00-91-562-2231516
The Amar Vilas is Agra's finest Luxury property 615 meters from the world famous monument. All rooms offer a wonderful view of the Taj Mahal and the facilities at the hotel are the best in luxury and style.
AGRA - Known as the city of the Taj Mahal one of the wonders of the World. Traditions ascribes the foundations of the present city of Agra to Raja Badal Singh around 1475 AD but, there is also mention of Agraban in the Mahabharata (ancient Hindu Mythology) which suggest that it has been the sister city of Mathura, an ancient city in the vicinity. Agra reached its zenith between 1556 and 1658 under the Moghul Emperors Akbar (for making it a great center for learning art, commerce and culture), His son Jehangir and Grandson Shah Jehan who built the Taj Mahal in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
The imperial headquarters of the Mughal Empire in the 16th and 17th centuries, Agra flourished under the patronage of wealthy rulers, who made it a thriving center for art, commerce, and culture. Craftsmen from distant lands brought their distinct styles to the city, flooding it with palaces, mosques, forts, and tombs. Today, ancient domes and minarets rise above the hustle and bustle of the city’s crowded markets and streets. Amber Tours offers you a one of a kind opportunity to soak in the intrigue and magnificence of these erstwhile structures. Our specialist will give you an in-depth perspective into the history, fable, vision, and traditions that surround the city’s notable structures, including its three UNESCO World Heritage Sites - the incomparable Taj Mahal, the stately Agra Fort, and the inspiring Fatehpur Sikri.
Afternoon arrangements for visit to Itmadullah’s Tomb known as the Baby Taj Mahal and built between 1622-26 Ad by Nur Jehan the wife of Jahangir in memory of her father Ghias-ud-Din_Beg. Tomb resembles a jewel box set in a garden. This tranquil, small, garden located on the banks of the Yamuna was to inspire the construction of the Taj Mahal in the later years. It is the first tomb in India built entirely in white marble. The tomb is also justly famous for the glorious pietra dura (stone inlay) decoration depicting cypresses, wine glasses, and an amazing variety of geometrical arabesque. The jali screens set in arched recesses are splendid. Four small minarets rise at the four corners of the small tomb structure. The whole structure gives the impression of an enlarged precious object.
- Page 4 of the programme - (Contd. 03rd Apr….) Also visit Mehtab Bagh to see Taj Mahal at sunset. Mahtab Bagh is situated on the sandy bank of Yamuna River just opposite the Taj Mahal mausoleum. The place is an ideal spot for it provides picturesque view of Taj Mahal. The name Mehtab Bagh means 'Moon Lit Garden' and the same was testified by the beautiful reflection of Taj Mahal in the pool at night in Mahtab Bagh. The place has a history of its own. It is believed that the great emperor Shah Jahan who built Taj Mahal for his queen wanted an identical one for himself at Mehtab Bagh. – this spot is not visited by the tourist and not crowded.
Overnight at Amarvilas resort hotel.
04th April 2013 Thursday (Kelley’s Birthday) Arrangements to visit to the Taj Mahal at sunrise – perhaps the best time to view the monument in the fresh morning light and also early morning the monument is not very crowded. (Amber Tours Agra rep. will advise time for pick-up the night before). Taj Mahal – the monument of love, built in memory of Empress Mumtaz by her husband – Shah Jehan, The Taj Mahal made of white marble took over 22 years to finish (1630-1652) – Ustad Islam the Persian architect was the main designers and planner for the Taj Mahal monument.
Experience one of the most famous structures on earth, the Taj Mahal, as never before. As our expert takes you to this splendid monument to love, allow yourself to get completely awe struck and overwhelmed by its beauty, impeccable symmetry, and superb craftsmanship. Commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal took 12 years and 20,000 artisans and laborers to complete. Explore its domed façade of dazzling white marble, the intricately carved panels of Quranic calligraphy, and floral motifs inlaid with precious gems. With a knowledgeable guide from Amber, you will be able to truly understand and appreciate this amazing structure. Each day thousands are drawn by its unsurpassed beauty, each onlooker enchanted and bedazzled.
The Taj Mahal evokes an assortment of moods as it captures the changing hues of the day. The Taj is exquisite at anytime of the day, but Amber Tours has in store for you an otherworldly experience at this monument. As the rising sun drapes its soft light on its gleaming white marble, the Taj Mahal will cast a magical spell on you and render you speechless.
Return to the hotel for breakfast .
Morning at leisure at the Hotel to enjoy the facilities and Spa. Noon visit the Agra Fort built by Emperor Akbar in1565 Ad – the construction is dominated by red-sandstone and houses the beautiful pearly mosque also it is from here that Shah Jehan imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb looked across the Yamuna River in the last few days of his life at the Taj Mahal.
Also visit to Sikandra – the Tomb of Great Akbar
Evening visit to Taj Mahal at sunset after which car and driver at disposal for local use and visit to market etc.
Overnight at the Hotel. - Page 5 of the programme -
05th April 2013 Friday (Taj Mahal is closed for public on Friday’s) Breakfast at the hotel
0930 hrs. Amber Tours car and driver will report to hotel and provide transfer to Bharatpur Railways station en- route visiting FatehpurSikri - the abandoned capital of the Mughal Dynasty 37 kms from Agra the capital built by Emperor Akbar on a large scale in predominantly red-sandstone and once again symbolizes Akbar’s tolerance to all religions in architecture which has both Indian and Persian styles. Due to shortage of water the capital was then shifted to Agra..
Also visit to Bharatpur bird Sanctuary. Lunch arrangements at The Bagh near bird sanctuary (lunch on direct payment). After lunch transfer to Jaipur.
On arrival in Jaipur transfer to Oberoi Rajvilas where accommodation of Premier room is reserved for immediate check-in
THE RAJ VILAS, Goner Road, Jaipur 303 012 Tel. No. 00- 91- 141- 2680101 and Fax No. 00- 91- 141-2680202
The OberoiRajvilas is the first of the luxury vilas category resorts built by the Oberoi Group. Spread over 42 acres of manicured gardens with a large Spa and Pool area and an Ancient Hindu temple situated in the middle of the Hotel grounds – Rajvilas offers the guests with the best in luxury, style and opulence. Each room has beautiful interiors with Four- poster beds, CD/DVD Players and huge bath and shower areas overlooking a private garden for every specific room.
JAIPUR – Known at the ‘Pink City’ is one of the India’s most charming and colourful cities. It is where ancient and medieval traditions and cultures and monuments still are very much a part of everyday life. The colour, valour and hospitality of the Rajput race is very much evident at all moments spent in this city whether in the hotel, at the City Palace, Amber Fort or in the Market Place.
Multicolored turbans of mustachioed men and the women’s colourful lehangas and odhnis starkly contrast with the city’s sun-baked desert landscape. Our specially designed package will introduce you to the city’s hilltop forts, fairy-tale palaces, and plush gardens, as well as to its vibrant and colorful markets, fairs, and festivals. The experts at Amber Tours will recreate the history, grandeur, and royalty of Jaipur, as you explore the spectacles of the city with them.
Evening at leisure at the hotel
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06th April 2013 Saturday Morning arrangements for Hot Air Ballooning outside Jaipur which is a wonderful experience (This is an early morning activity and timings for same will be advised night before by Amber Tours representative at the time of check-in)
Return to hotel after Hot Air Ballooning - breakfast at the hotel
1000 hrs. Amber Tours car and representative will report to hotel and provide sightseeing of Jaipur city visiting the City Palace - the private residence of former Maharaja Bhawani Singh of Jaipur and his family where part of the palace is open to public and has a museum with a very interesting armory.
Visit the adjacent Observatory known as `Jantar mantar' built by the Maharaja of Jaipur's grandfather who had a passion for astronomy.
Also visit Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) - a five story façade which overlooks the walled city's main thoroughfare and is built in quaint pink sand-stone and is studded with 953 little windows and was used for the ladies of the royal household to sit and watch local people and their activities.
Arrangements for lunch at the The Rambagh Palace (Lunch on direct payment) - the former official residence of the Jaipur Royal family and is now a heritage deluxe hotel spread over 47 acres of landscaped gardens. It was originally built for the family as their private hunting Lodge in 1835 and converted to the official residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur in 1925. The Palace was finally converted as India's first palace hotel in 1957. Its a wonderful blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. The Luxury rooms have recently been refurbished and the interiors are rich Indian colours with four-poster bed, walk-in wardrobes, and a spacious bathroom.
Evening arrangements to visit the Spice and Herb Market at sunset –where the guide will give a talk on the various spices used for Indian cooking. The Market is also a photographers delight. Also visit the bangle and henna Market and recommend getting henna designed on the hands or feet of the ladies (the henna fades in a few days) this is special for Indian ladies specially during wedding and festival season.
Afternoon car and driver at disposal for local shopping. Jaipur is a great place for shopping for precious stones, silks, home furnishing, sari's etc.
Overnight at the hotel.
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07th April 2013 Sunday Breakfast at the hotel
0900 hrs. Amber Tours car and guide will report to the hotel and provide excursion to Amber Fort.Located around 11 kms (7 miles) from Jaipur, Amber or Amer is the original capital of the Kachchwaha dynasty. Discover this once formidable city with our specialist. You can play the maharaja for a day as you ride an elephant up the hill to the Amber Fort. Behind the robust honey-colored ramparts of this fort are some architectural marvels. The Ganesh Pol is an impressive gateway covered with gorgeous motifs and mosaics, and leads to the private royal apartments. The small Sheesh Mahal or the Hall of Mirrors has innumerable tiny mirror pieces embedded in its ceiling and walls. All it takes is a single candle to transform this chamber into a glittering night sky. Get inspired with legends, history, and tales of valor that are linked with this fort.
After visiting Amber Fort transfer to “Dera Amer” outside Jaipur for elephant Safari thru the forest with special lunch arrangements.
forests will be made.
Afternoon car and guide at disposal for local use or return to hotel to enjoy the facilities and Spa
08th April 2013 Monday Morning transfer to Airport for Jet Airways flight to Delhi
Dep. Jaipur Jet Airways (9W) 2628 Dep. 0700 hrs. Arr. Delhi Arr. 0750hrs.
On arrival in Delhi connect Jet Airways flight to Varanasi
Dep. Delhi Jet Airways (9W) 2423 Dep. 1040 hrs. Arr. Varanasi Arr. 1155 hrs. (Economy class seats will be reserved)
Meeting and assistance on arrival at The Varanasi Airport and transfer to Nadesar Palace where accommodation of Palace room will be reserved for immediate check-in.
- Page 8 of the programme - (Contd. 08th Apr….) TAJ NADESAR PALACE, Nadesar Palace Grounds, Varanasi. Tel.: 00 91 542-2503001 Fax: 00 91 542 2502724
VARANASI - or Beneras is one of the oldest living cities in the World. Its prominence in Hindu mythology is virtually unrivaled. Mark Twain said `Beneras is older than history. Older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together'. One of the earliest descriptions of Varanasi is found in the Buddhist scripture.
Varanasi offers a breathtaking experience; the rays of the dawn shimmering across the Ganga River - the high banks, the temples, shrines and ashrams along the banks. Varanasi is also a center of music (classical) and famous for Silk. The principal attraction of the Holy city are the string of Ghats that line the western banks of the Ganges River. These ghats are mainly used for bathing and prayers offered to the Holy Ganges River but many of them are also used as ‘burning ghats’ where Hindu’s are cremated. – the best time to visit the Ghats are sunrise and sunset.
After check-in formalities and High tea - evening arrangements for visit to Temples and Ghats for sunset prayer which is fascinating and great photo opportunity, also arrangements for Rickshaw ride and visit to Temples etc. .
Arrangements for private special prayer of River Ganga with flowers and butter oil lamps lit and floated on the river accompanied with holy changing of prayer which is very evocative and picturesque
After prayer return to hotel for overnight stay
09th April 2013 Tuesday Early morning guide will report to the hotel and provide boat cruise by private boat on the River Ganga at sunrise to watch the morning prayers and the Burning ghats. Mother Ganga as she is known is the heartbeat of India and is perhaps the most sacred and holy river in the World. Varanasi is the steps to heaven for the Hindus (the timing for the sunrise cruise will be advised by the guide the night before).
The boat cruise will start at Dasaswamedh Ghat – which is the main Ghat for bathing and from here we cruise up-stream covering Prayag Ghat, ancient Dasaswamegh Ghat, Ahilya Bai Ghat, Munshi Ghat, Rana Mahal, Pandey Ghat, Raja Ghat, Shemeshwar Ghat, Chauki Ghati, Kedar Ghat, Nalli Ghat, Hanshicharan Ghat – from here the boat turns downstream and we end at Manikarnika Ghat – the main ghat where the cremations are held. During the boatcruise visit to the ‘Dhobighat’ will also be arranged.
After breakfast visit Sarnath - after attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya the Buddha came to Sarnath; and it was here that he gave his first sermon in the deer park to set in motion the 'Wheel of Dharma'. It is one of the most holy sites as in this place Buddha's teachings first flowed. Also visit the wonderful museum based on the life of lord Buddha.
After early lunch transfer to airport for Jet Airways flight to Delhi.
- Page 9 of the programme - (Contd. 09th Apr…) Departure Varanasi Jet Airways (9W) 2424 1510 hrs. Arrival Delhi 1635 hrs. (Economy Class seats reserved)
Meeting and assistance on arrival at Delhi Airport and transfer to The Oberoi New Delhi where accommodation will be reserved for immediate check-in
Overnight at the hotel
10th April 2013 Wednesday Breakfast at the hotel
Full day car at disposal for local use.
1930 hrs. Table reservation at “Spice Route” restaurant at Imperial Hotel. (Dinner on direct payment)
11th April 2013 Thursday 0300 hrs. Amber Tours car and representative will report to hotel and provide transfer to Airport for Turkish Airlines flight 717 leaving at 0605 hrs. to Istanbul
NEW DELHI AMBER TOURS PVT. LTD. Ms. Shanti Kohli / Mr. Sanjay Chitkaria 707 Akash Deep Building Barakhamba Road New Delhi – 1 Tel: 00- 91-11-23313229 and 23314115 (off) 98110-21534 (Mobile Shanti) 9818342562 (Mobile Sanjay) 25126722 (Resi. Sanjay)