Tour of Old

Delhi, ’s capital city, is growing at a breathless pace, beyond the scattered citadels of erstwhile dynasties and far beyond the ken of the colonial and latter-day town planners. The pressures notwithstanding, it remains a modern and convenient gateway to India. Remnants of the past and its pace-setting ambitions also make the city a fitting introduction to the often-bewildering aspects of an ancient civilization absorbing contemporary values. New Delhi is a world away from its older counterpart. Yet, has a richer and more colourful character, stemming from its organic growth over several centuries and its still somewhat medieval ambience.

1000 hrs Depart from the conference venue for Old Delhi. Arrive at Red Fort in Old Delhi where cycle rickshaws await the guests. Guest will be escorted to the pre-arranged rickshaws and will commence their ride through the streets of Old Delhi. The group will take separate routes and will assemble back at a Jama Masjid where the coaches will be parked. The tour will include lunch at 1300 hrs at a local restaurant.

Rickshaw ride through Dariba Kalan, Kinari Bazar and Nai Sadak A colourful street set behind the groupware on , and connected to the main road by Dariba Kalan, “the street of incomparable pearl”, which is the centre for jewelers. The shops in Kinari Bazar overflow with bright wedding finery, including garlands made of rupee notes, grooms’ turbans, rosettes and glistening tinsel used by Hindus, Christians and Muslims in vivid and noisy marriage ceremonies.

Ride through Chandni Chowk This large trading area in North India was once a quiet road, shaded by trees, with a canal flowing along its entire length. On a clear night the water reflected the light of the moon; so it came to be known as Chandni Chowk, the moonlit square.

1300 hrs Lunch at a local restaurant

Visit Jama Masjid This grand Mosque, with three imposing black and white marble domes and twin minarets framing its great central arch, was built in 1656 by the Emperor Shah Jahan.

Drive by Lal Qila (Red Fort) Red sandstone battlements give this imperial citadel its name, Lal (“Red”) Qila (“Fort”). Commissioned by Shah Jahan in 1639, the Mughal emperor built it with the ambition of concentrating the Mughal power in one monument . The fort is a delight to one's imagination. Within are the Naqqar Khana (Drum room), the Diwan-e-Am (Hall of Public Audience), the Mumtaz Mahal, Rang Mahal (Palace of Colours), Khas Mahal (Emperor's Palace), Diwan-e Khas (Hall of Private Audience), the Hammam (bathing area) and Shah Bhurj.

1700 hrs Return back to the hotel

Tour Cost (minimum 2 people) INR 9,250/- per person US $ 150/- per person

The rates include the following specific services: Ÿ Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle as per the program Ÿ Service of locally appointed English speaking guide Ÿ Lunch at a local restaurant Ÿ One-time entrance fees to monuments Ÿ Unlimited bottled water during the trip Ÿ All prevailing Government taxes