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Home , Hazarduari Palace, Katwa subdivision, Khushbagh, Lion Capital of Ashoka, Munger Fort, Port of Kolkata

Tours − Luxury Tours Collection Grand Voyage on the : to Grand Voyage on the Ganges: Kolkata to Varanasi

Explore the sights and cultures of as you cruise the holy Ganges on the Luxury River Cruiser M.V. Paramhamsa, the only one of its kind in Eastern . This 15−day expedition takes in a number of the most important historical sites in India including the colonial splendors of Kolkata, the sacred places of around Bodhgaya and Benares, now called Varanasi, the great cultural center of Hinduism. In addition, the vessel stops daily in smaller towns and villages to see handicrafts, rural life and a variety of local cultures. A river cruise is a relaxing and practical way to cover this vast landscape in comfort and safety as you explore India well off the beaten track.

ITINERARY

PLEASE NOTE: The above rates are calculated based on the local currency (INR) and are subject to change based on exchange rate fluctuations. Your balance payment will be due and payable based on the exchange rate at that time. An option to pay in full and lock in today's exchange rate is also available; please contact us for details.

Your tour cost includes:

• 11 Nights accommodation on board M.V. Paramhamsa • All meals daily (breakfast, lunch and dinner) • Guided shore excursions to destinations as per the itinerary • Entrance fees and camera fees at places specified in the itinerary • All onboard entertainment • Bottled water throughout the tour, non−alcoholic beverages at mealtimes

Your tour cost does not include:

• Transfer to Millennium Jetty in Kolkata • Transfer from the disembarkation point in Varanasi • Any hotel accommodation in Kolkata or Varanasi • Domestic or international airfare • Visa fees or travel insurance • Gratuities, alcoholic beverages, spa treatments, or any items of a personal nature • Any item not specifically mentioned as included • Day 1 − Your Grand Voyage on the Ganges begins!

Check−in at the embarkation point Millennium Park, this is situated in the centre of Kolkata 30 minutes from airport. Kolkata City Tour.

• Day 2 − Set Sail

The cruiser sails off. Safety and tour briefing. The Vessel will sail past the to reach , Visit Belur Math Famous RamaKrishna Temple founded by Great Sage of India Swami Vivekananda. Visit Serampore / Barrackpore both have colonial heritage significance. Serampore was a Danish colony till 1805. The Church, , and the college have been preserved as a part of heritage. Barrackpore was the country residence of the Viceroy in Office. Visit Chandannagore A colony of the French till 1950. Chandannagar Strand: Walk along this superbly decorated pavement studded with lights surrounded by lush green trees for tour of the other French architecture. Sacred Heart Church: The beautiful church stands over for two centuries to mark the beauty of the architecture during the French period. Museum / Institute of Robert Dupliex: Residence of Governor General of the French Company now turned into a Museum / Institute of Robert Dupliex.One of the oldest and finest of the entire region. It boasts a beautiful collection of French items (e.g cannons used in Anglo French war, wooden furniture of the 18th century, etc.).

1 • Day 3 − Kalna

Kalna is more popularly known as Ambika Kalna, named after a very popular Deity of Kali, Maa Ambika. Terrakota Temples: Nava Kailash or 108 Shiv Mandirs, built in 1809 of terrakota is a beautiful architecture. Others are Kalna Pratapeshwar Temple &Lalji Temple, RajBari, the palace. Weavers Colony of fine Bengal cotton known as TANT at Shantipur. Mayapur, the headquarters of ISKCON. Opposite is the quiet village of Nabadwip. The evening prayers and dance in praise of the lord will be highlight of the visit.

• Day 4 −

Visit to Katwa . Visit the Kansari artisans at Matiari. Kansari aritsans make brass and bell metal utensils. Cruise further to passing through quite country side.

• Day 5 − Murshidabad

Whole day tour of Murshidabad. Murshidabad is one of the oldest cities of and has a rich heritage. The Murshid Ali Khan made Murshidabad the city of Sube Bangla, comprising of Bengal, and Orissa. It was the last capital of independent of Bengal and the first capital of Bengal under the British. Nizamat Kila (the Fortress of the Nawabs), also known as the Hazaarduari Palace (Palace of a Thousand Doors), built by Duncan McLeod of the Bengal Engineers in 1837, in the Italianate style. Moti Jhil (Pearl Lake), beautiful horseshoe shaped lake, just to the south of the palace. Muradbagh Palace and the Cemetery, where the remains of Ali Vardi Khan and Siraj Ud Daulah are interred. Katgola Gardens: Katgola, the palace garden of Dhanpat Singh Dugar and Lakshmipat Singh Dugar and their famous Adinath Temple were built in 1873, by Harreck Chand. A typically Jain style of ornamentation lends a unique beauty to this Jain temple.

• Day 6 − Farrakka

Farrakka: Sail through . The Farakka Barrage is the longest barrage in the world and has recently been entered into the Guinness Book of World Records. It has 101 gates and it is from here the water is shared between India and . Visit Malda (Gaur) is the first capital of the Buddhist Pala dynasty, then it became the seat of the Hindu , and finally the capital of the Muslim Nawabs.

• Day 7 − Rajamahal

Visit Rajmahal and walk through village of Rajmahal then the vessel sails up to Manihari

• Day 8 − Vikramshila

Visit Vikramshila is the Buddhist learning centre. It is built by Bengal King Dharmapala in 8th Century. The Monastery gradually gained importance and became a centre for Tantric Buddhism. Visit Silk weaver's place at .

• Day 9 − Fort

Munger Fort, and 18th century British cemetery: Munger Fort is built on a rocky hillock on the south of the Ganga River. The fort houses a number of religious and historic monuments such as the Tomb of Pir Shah Nufa (died 1497), Palace of Shah Suja, Tomb of Mulla Muhammad Said (died 1704 AD), the Kashtaharini on the Ganges River, Chandisthana (an ancient temple) and an 18th century British cemetery SitaKund , the which is so called after the well known episode of the Ramayana. According to the local legend, Sita, the consort of Lord Rama, underwent her ordeal of standing on fire at this place; and after she took bath in the spring, its cold water became very hot. The temperature of this varies in a remarkable manner and goes to the highest of 138o F and even above.

2 • Day 10 − Nalanda

The guest will be transferred by road to visit Nalanda, Budhgaya and stay overnight at Budhgaya while the cruiser reaches . Nalanda, the world famous ancient learning centre in the ancient days. Great scholars of China and other lands came here to study Buddhism and practice ways of faith. Archaeological Museum housing the Nalanda University seal, sculptures and other remains found on the site. Great The brickbuilt remains are extensive and include the Great Stupa, with steps, terraces and a few intact votive around it, and the monk's cells. Whole day tour of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Rajgir means 'the royal palace', it is here Lord Buddha had delivered many of His sermons over 12 years of stay. Shanti Stupa has been constructed on top of a hill by Japanese Buddhists. Vultures's Peak, the favourite abode of Lord Buddha where he used to give his sermons. Its rocks are shaped like vultures hence its name. Cyclopean Walls, ruins of the ancient walls which provided protection to the ancient city of Rajgir LaxmiNarayan Temple, main site include parts of the ruined city, caves and places associated with Ajatsatru and his father Bimbisara, whom he imprisoned and murdered. The pink building by the crowded hot springs is the Laxmi Narayan Temple. Bodh Gaya and Gaya: 12 kilometres from Gaya, Bodh Gaya is a place of international renown and is one of the four holy spots for Buddhists. It was here that prince Siddhartha found enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree and became the Buddha. Mahabodhi Temple having 25 mtr. Great Buddha Statue in the Japanese Kamakura style, a portion of which is believed to be more than 200 years old. Monasteries and Temples built lately by several Buddhist countries in their architectural style. Museum containing rare Buddhist relics. Gaya is a centre of Hindu Pilgrims. Vishnu is said to have given Gaya the power to absolve sinners. Pilgrims offer Pindas (funeral cakes) at the ghat along the river here entitles the soul of the departed to a place in heaven and free their ancestors from bondage to earth.

• Day 11 − Patna

Half day city tour at Patna on arrival from Budhgaya Embarkation Visit Sher Sahi, the heavy doomed built by Afghan ruler Sher Shah in 1545, is the oldest in Patna. Golghar, a huge building shaped like a beehive, constructed in 1786 as a granary to store surpluses against possible famines Kumrahar Excavations, the remains of Patliputra, the ancient capital of Ajatasatru (491 459 BC ), Chandragupta (311297 BC ) and ( 274237 BC have been uncovered.

• Day 12 − Sail on the Vessel

The Vessel will sail past Balia towards Buxar, no excursion.

• Day 13 − Sail on the Vessel The vessel will sail past Gazipur &reach Saidpur, no excursion.

• Day 14 − Varanasi The vessel will reach Varanasi around noon. Visit , where Buddha chose to deliver his first sermon on Nirvana. Sarnath, a number of countries in which Buddhism is a major (or the dominant) religion, among them , Japan, Tibet, and Myanmar, have established temples and monasteries in Sarnath in the style that is typical for the respective country. Ashokan Pillar where sculpture of the Mauryan Period carved. The base of the Ashoka pillar in Sarnath which was broken during Turk Islamic invasions, it was originally surmounted by the " Capital of Ashoka" which is presently at display at the . This particular Lion Capital of Ashoka, originally atop this pillar in Sarnath has been adopted as the "National Emblem of India". Benaras Hindu University founded in 1916, one of the oldest university, is a Central university which is also the largest residential university in Asia. Museum having interesting collection of Buddhist artifacts. Das Ashwamedha Ghat on river Ganges for the soulful Aarti (worshiping the God).Boat ride across river Ganges for amazing glimpses of the religious practices and rituals performed by thousands of devotees on the banks of river Ganges.

• Day 15 − Varanasi

Varanasi: Commonly known as Benaras and Kashi is probably the oldest city of India and regarded as holy by , Buddhists and Jains. People often refer to Varanasi as "the city of Temples", "the holy city of India", "the religious capital of India", "the city of lights", and "the city of learning". Whatever be the name, it draws millions to the Banks of River Ganges here and shows the essence of how "Incredible India" is. Temples: Durga Temple, Bharat Mata Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple. Check out at 12 noon.

3 DESTINATION INFORMATION

• Belur Math

Belur is a neighborhood in Bally Municipality, West Bengal, India. It is situated on the west bank of the . It is a part of the area covered by Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority. Belur is most well−known for Belur Math, a religious abbey, containing a complex of temples. Belur Math is famous for being the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math, a monastic order, as well as that of the related Ramakrishna Mission, both founded by Swami Vivekananda.

• Calcutta / Kolkata

Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal and was capital of British India until 1912. The urban agglomeration of Kolkata covers several municipal corporations, municipalities, city boards and villages and is the third largest urban agglomeration in India and the seventh largest in the world. Situated on the banks of the Hooghly River (a of the Ganges), Kolkata was arguably second only to in administrative importance in the British Empire. The city lost its past glory and economic importance in the years following Indian independence. The city is also noted for its revolutionary tradition, from the pre−independence era to the Naxalite movements. Home of luminaries like , Amartya Sen, Mother Teresa, and , the city is often referred to as the "cultural capital of India", while other sobriquets like "the city of processions" and "the city of joy" also adorn Kolkata. Once called a "dying city", Kolkata is now undergoing a process of economic uplift and revival.

• Chandannagar

Chandannagar, formerly known as Chandernagore is a small city and former French colony located 30 kilometers north of Kolkata, in West Bengal, India. It is head quarters of a subdivision in Hooghly District. It is a part of the area covered by Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority. Situated along the banks of river Ganga, the city has been able to maintain a separate identity different from all other cities and abide by her own characteristics. The remains of French buildings at Chandannagar make for a good sight. Other tourist attractions include the Strand, Church, Museum, Rabindra Bhavan and Temples. The long forgotten French colonial aura can still be witnessed in the nook and corners of Chandannagar.

• Farakkah Barrage

Completed in 1974−75 , the Farakkah Barrage is a on the Ganges River located in the Indian state of West Bengal. The dam was built to divert the Ganges River water into the Hooghly River during the dry season, from January to June, in order to flush out the accumulating silt which in the 1950s and 1960s was a problem at the major of Kolkata on the Hooghly River. This is the Longest Barrage in the world and has recently been entered into

4 the Guinness Book of World Records.

• Kalna

The town of Kalna is a subdivision in District, at West Bengal (India). Being on the western bank of the river Bhagirathi, the town is infested with historical monuments. The place is at a distance of 25 kilometers from Nabadwip and is 77 kilometers from Kolkata. The place is at 23.22° N 88.37°. Kalna is close to the pilgrimages of Mayapur and Nabadwip and is better known as 'Ambika Kalna', named after the famous deity of Goddess Kali, Ambika. The place once housed the of Bardhaman. Kalna is the meeting point of the Vaishnava and Shakta forms of worship. The temples here are made of bricks and displays detailed terracotta artworks.

• Katwa Katwa is head quarters of Katwa subdivision in the district of Bardhaman, West Bengal. The area has a rural charm and natural beauty, but many trading and other business activities has made it clumsy and congested. It is a good middle class residential area.

The small town has a historical background of five hundred years. The earliest name of Katwa was Indranee Pargana. Later the name was changed to 'Kantak Nagari' and became the fort area of Murshid Kuli Khan, Nawab of Bengal. Katwa was invaded by the Bargis (break−away Maratha groups) several times.

• Munger Munger town is the headquarters of , in the Indian state of Bihar. Historically, Munger is known for its manufacturing of iron articles such as firearms and swords. Previously named Monghyr, this town has many historical sites. During the reign of Nawab the capital of Bengal had been shifted from Murshidabad to Munger away from British influence. The town is on the right bank of the Ganges, and has a railway station, with steam ferry service to the railway on the opposite bank of the river.

• Murshidabad

Murshidabad, the grand heritage of Bengal is distanced at 182 kilometers from Kolkata and just about 11 kilometers from Behrampore. A city of grand stature, Murshidabad, has been named after the Nawab , who was the Diwan of Bihar, Orissa, and Bengal, during the reign of the Mughal Emperor . One of the most prominent cities in Bengal, the place Murshidabad is of immense historical significance. It constitutes ancient monuments and forts that speak bold of the turmoil they have witnessed in the past. The , built in 1837 by Duncan Macleod, in the European style of architecture, is a museum of thousand doors that pulls a good deal of visitors. Then there is the Nimak Haram Deohri or the Traitors Gate, the Khusbagh, the Garden of Happiness, which is a boat−ride over the river where Siraj is buried. The Katra Mosque stands in a market place. It is encompassed by an array of two−storied dome chambers. Among other attractions, the eminent ones are Moti Jhil − the Pearl Lake, the Great Imambara, and the Nasipur palace, Topkhana, Wasif Manzil, the Jain Parashnath Temples, the Bhavaniswar Temple, Syedabad and the Jafraganj Cemetery.

• Nalanda

5 • Patna

Patna is the capital of the Indian state of Bihar, and one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world. The modern city of Patna lies on the southern bank of the Ganges. The city also straddles the Ghagra, Sone and Gandak. Patna is approximately 25 km long and 9 km to 10 km wide. Ancient Patna, known as Patliputra, was the capital of Nandas, Mauryans, Sungas, and the Guptas down to the Pala Empires. Patliputra was also a famous seat of learning and fine arts. Apart from being the administrative centre of the state and its historic importance, the city is also a major educational and medical centre.

• Rajmahal

• River Ganges

River Ganges is worshiped by the Hindus in India and is considered one of the holiest rivers in the world. Ganga or Ganges is considered the Mother of India and it is a belief that the water of the Ganges can get you rid of your sins. The Ganges runs over 1557 miles. The river has its origin at Gangotri glacier (southern slopes of the Himalayas). The mouth of the Ganges forms a vast delta (Sundarban delta), which is the largest delta in the world. Ganges has served as the lap of human civilization from the ancient times. It has been a practice for the Indians to depend on the river for psychological, physical and spiritual sustenance. River Ganga is rich in wildlife but the show−stealer is the dolphins, which can be seen swimming with only their beaks protruding out of the waters. The people of India make extensive use of the Ganges for agricultural and fishing purposes. The Ganges is also famous for transportation as India relies greatly on river transportation.

• Sarnath

Sarnath is the deer park where first taught the , and where the Buddhist Sangha came into existence through the enlightenment of Kondanna. Sarnath is located 13 kilometers north−east of Varanasi, in , India. Sarnath has been developed as a place of pilgrimage, both for Buddhists from India and abroad. Most of the ancient buildings and structures at Sarnath were damaged or destroyed by the Turks. However, amongst the ruins can be distinguished the Dhamek Stupa, Dharmarajika Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, the ruins of the Mulagandhakuti vihara mark the place where the Buddha spent his first rainy season, Mulagandhakuti Vihara is a monastery built in the 1930s by the Sri Lankan behind it is the Deer Park (where deer are still to be seen).

6 • Serampore

Serampore (also called Serampur, Srirampur) is a city and a municipality in Hooghly district in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is a part of the area covered by Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority. It is a pre−colonial town on the right bank of the Hoogli River. It was part of Danish India under the name Frederiksnagore from 1755 to 1845.

• Shantiniketan

Shantiniketan is a famous university town in West Bengal and is world famous because of its association with Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore. Maharshi Debendranath Tagore, father of Rabindranath Tagore, bought a few acres of land and founded Shantiniketan. Later, in 1901, his son Rabindranath (1861−1941) founded a school here, starting with five students. Today the school is world renowned. The main attractions of Shantiniketan include the various buildings of the Visva−Bharati campus. It consists of several buildings, one of them is Bichitra Bhavan, which was designed by Rathindranth Tagore. Also known as the Rabindra Bhavan it houses a research institute and a museum.

• Varanasi

Varanasi stands on the west bank of the river Ganges as it flows through the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. This city has found a prominent place in the Buddhist scriptures as well the epic of . In Pali language, Varanasi is called Banarasi, Banaras, or Benares. From time immemorial Varanasi has been a center of education, religion, art and culture. Varanasi has also excelled in the art of silk weaving. The Banarasi silk sarees and brocades are cherished as collectors' items across the world.

• Vikramasila Vikramasila is located in Antichak village, , Bihar. Vikramasila University was one of the two most important centers of Buddhist learning in India during the Pala dynasty, along with Nalanda University. Vikramasila was established by King Dharmapala (783 to 820) in response to a supposed decline in the quality of scholarship at Nalanda. Vikramasila was one of the largest Buddhist universities, with more than hundred teachers and about one thousand students. It produced eminent scholars who were often invited by foreign countries to spread Buddhist learning, culture and religion. The most distinguished and eminent among all was Atisa Dipankara, a founder of the Sarma traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. Subjects like theology, philosophy, grammar, metaphysics, Indian logic etc. were taught here, but the most important branch of learning was tantrism.

Price Chart

PLEASE NOTE: The above rates are calculated based on the local currency (INR) and are subject to change based on exchange rate fluctuations. Your balance payment will be due and payable based on the exchange rate at that time. An option to pay in full and lock in today's exchange rate is also available; please contact us for details.

Your tour cost includes:

• 11 Nights accommodation on board M.V. Paramhamsa • All meals daily (breakfast, lunch and dinner) • Guided shore excursions to destinations as per the itinerary • Entrance fees and camera fees at places specified in the itinerary • All onboard entertainment • Bottled water throughout the tour, non−alcoholic beverages at mealtimes

Your tour cost does not include:

7 • Transfer to Millennium Jetty in Kolkata • Transfer from the disembarkation point in Varanasi • Any hotel accommodation in Kolkata or Varanasi • Domestic or international airfare • Visa fees or travel insurance • Gratuities, alcoholic beverages, spa treatments, or any items of a personal nature • Any item not specifically mentioned as included

HOTELS AND RESORTS

• M.V. Paramhamsa , River Ganges (5 −Star)

14, Southern AvenueKolkata − 700 026, West Bengal, India

Sailing aboard this inland luxury cruiser is all about grandeur, comfort and imbibing the flavor of one of the greatest rivers of the world the Ganges. M.V. Paramhamsa is 53 meters long and 32 meters broad. The ship flaunts four decks under deck, main deck, first deck, and sun deck. There are 20 deluxe rooms on the main deck and 12 luxury rooms on the first deck. The spacious rooms, coupled with great hospitality, helps you relax and unwind. The chefs aboard the ship prepare delicious fresh seafood dishes as you float along the serene river.

Facilities Steam room/Sauna " Juice counter " Library and TV " Loungers " Gift Shop " Conference rooms " Fax facilities " Internet connection " Library " Massage rooms " Cruise gym " " Restaurant " Art gallery " Entertainment programs onboard " Room facilities: King−sized beds " Attached bath " Telephone connection " Emergency kit " Tea and coffee maker " All Rooms are River Facing " Air conditioned with individual controller " Attached Bath with Hot & Cold water " Intercom facility " Locker on request " The suites have extra bed provision.

SUGGESTED EXTENSION TOURS

A Week in Wonderland : Palace on Wheels

Climb aboard the legendary Palace on Wheels train for a week−long odyssey recreating the ambiance and glorious past as you travel through the heart of Rajasthan. You will feel like royalty on board one of the top ten luxury trains in the world as you visit little−seen and well−known attractions, including the famous Taj Mahal.

Welcome aboard the Palace on Wheels on its splendid and enchanting royal rail journey through the bygone era of the erstwhile Maharajas. Though times have changed and the winds have shifted, the Palace On Wheels cruises along in royal style, the kind only the Maharajas of yesteryears could have perpetuated and enjoyed.

The exquisite and exclusive Palace On Wheels has luxurious cabins, wall to wall carpeting, a well stocked bar, two dining cars and very personalized service... in fact, almost everything that could promise heaven on earth for seven days!

The Palace on Wheels has been rated one of the ten best luxurious train journeys in the world. Originally the train had 12 fully furnished non−air conditioned saloons, once owned by former Maharajas, Governor Generals and Viceroys of the British period. The Palace on Wheels started as a unique holiday concept hauled by a steam engine with its inaugural trip on January 26, 1982.

In 1991, a new air−conditioned meter gauge Palace on Wheels on the lines of the old heritage train was launched. The interiors of the 14 saloons are authentic replicas of the historic coaches. Each saloon is equipped with twin−bedded cabins, each with music, intercom, with attached baths and running hot and cold water and a shower.

8 TRAVEL TIPS & FAQ's

What are the passport/visa requirements for travel to India? A passport with validity at least six months beyond your departure from India is required. Also, visas must be obtained prior to arrival in India. Please note that Palace Tours cannot provide visas. Please visit www.mea.gov.in, click on "Welcome" and then under "MEA Links" at the right, click on "Missions and Posts Abroad" and then click "Consulate Generals". You can then select your appropriate Consulate General office and link directly to its website, where detailed visa information and application forms can be found. Please budget at least 14 days to receive it from the consulate.

What is the best time of year to visit the area? September to March. The region has a tropical climate with hot summers and cold winters. Maximum and minimum temperatures during the summer are 42°C and 37°C respectively. In winters, the maximum and minimum temperatures are 29°C and 9.2°C respectively.

What precautions should I take on the tour? Drink only purified water provided in the cruise, only consume food that is served in the cruise. Carry sunscreen, a hat, mosquito repellent, and don't forget your camera! Also do not forget to carry your personal medicines if you are on medication.

What kinds of clothing are recommended? During the winter season (December, January and February) light woolens are required during the night. For the rest of the year, casual cotton outfits would be the most comfortable. Fully covered shoes with good traction are advisable. There is no official dress code on board the cruise ship.

What onboard facilities does the ship have? The 4−decked luxury cruiser M.V. Paramhamsa was built in 2006. It has a gym, Ayurvedic massage parlor, steam room, activity room with satellite television, library, art gallery, conference rooms with internet connectivity and fax facilities, fully−stocked bar, sun deck, onboard entertainment and laundry service. There is a terrace coffee shop as well as a kebab corner for delicious snacks outside of mealtimes.

Please describe the rooms on board. The 32 comfortable rooms of M.V. Paramhamsa are air−conditioned, spacious, are river−facing and possess attached baths for your convenience. The ship has 12 luxury rooms on the first deck and 20 deluxe rooms on the main deck. Luxury rooms measure 5.4m x 3m (approx. 162 sq. ft) while deluxe rooms are slightly smaller at 4.5m x 3m (approx. 135 sq. ft). All rooms are equipped with telephone, ample reading material, tea and coffee maker and even an emergency kit.

What kind of cuisine is served throughout the tour? The ship's spacious restaurant, The Mangrove, offers a variety of delectable Oriental, continental and Indian dishes. Take your pick from the lunch buffet selections and the mouthwatering seafood section. Vegetarian options are always available, and special requests can be accommodated for; please inform Palace Tours upon booking and please advise upon boarding if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.

What kinds of electrical outlets are there on board? The ship has 220−240 volt outlets.

What types of onboard cultural entertainment are planned? The evening programs showcase rural Bengal through various folk songs and cultural activities.

Is it permissible to smoke on board? Smoking in confined areas is prohibited. You may, however, smoke on the open decks of the vessel.

Is the tap water safe to drink? Bottled water is provided complimentary throughout your tour, on board and on land excursions. We also recommend brushing your teeth with bottled water.

What is the recommended gratuity? Tipping is a matter of individual preference. We advise that you do not tip the individual directly for services; separate boxes are kept for such a purpose. As a guideline, a tip of about 7,000 rupees for the 11−night tour would be appropriate.

Can the tour accommodate passengers with special needs?

9 Yes, if you require a wheelchair, one can be provided (please mention upon booking) and can fit through the passageways on board. If you have a medical condition that might put you at risk, discuss it with your doctor and inform us at the time of booking. And, whenever you travel, check to see what your health insurance covers. We do have some professionals to handle emergency situations and can arrange immediate medical facilities.

What is the recommended currency? The local currency is the . We recommend that you utilize currency exchange facilities in Kolkata before your tour, as some of the smaller towns may not be able to accommodate an exchange. On board accounts may be settled by major credit card or cash. 1 . Do I need a Visa for India? All visitors to India need a Visa

2 . Do you help with getting a Visa

Unfortunately, we don't offer Visa assistance but we can provide you with all the information that you need for getting a visa to India

Palace Tours Contact Information

If at any time you have questions, concerns or feedback, please do not hesitate to contact us via any of the below methods:

On the Web: www.palacetours.com

By e−mail: [email protected]

By phone: 1−800−724−5120

USA: Princeton, NJ: 609−580−1372 New York, NY: 212−920−2543 Houston, TX: 832−446−2709

International: Spain : +34 912919229 : 800−8456−201 Hong Kong: (852) 30518159 : (+27)11−46133299 Australia: 1800−156−671 New Zealand: 0800−442−510

By FAX: 1−609−683−9772

By postal mail: Palace Tours Ltd. 20 Wall Street Princeton, New Jersey 08540 USA

DIRECTIONS TO OUR CORPORATE OFFICE Please call ahead for hours and appointments!

By Car:

From Princeton area:

10 Our office is located on the north side of Route 206 in Princeton, New Jersey. We are in the Research Park office complex, directly opposite from the Princeton Airport.

From points North: Via Route 1: Take Route 1 South towards Trenton. After you pass Forrestal Village Campus, you will begin to see signs for "Downtown Princeton &Shopping". Turn right on Washington Road. Follow Washington Road for approximately 1.5 miles. Turn left on Nassau Street (Route 27). Turn right on Stockton Street (Route 206 North) &follow for approximately 4 miles. Turn right onto Wall Street.

Via Route 287: Take Route 287 South towards Somerville. Take exit 17 for Route 206 South (Somerville). You will pass through a traffic circle follow signs for Route 206 South. Follow Route 206 South for approximately 12 miles. Turn left onto Wall Street.

From points South: Via the Garden State Parkway: Take the Parkway North/South to exit 98 for Route 138 West toward Trenton. Route 138 West becomes Route 195 West. Follow 195 West for approximately 17 miles. Merge onto Route 295 North toward Trenton. Follow directions below.

Via Route 95/ 295: Take Route 95 North until it becomes Route 295 North toward Trenton. Take exit 67A and merge onto Route 1 North. Follow Route 1 North for approximately 5 miles. Take the exit for Washington Road. Turn right on Washington Road. Follow Washington Road for approximately 1.5 miles. Turn left on Nassau Street (Route 27). Turn right on Stockton Street (Route 206 North) &follow for approximately 4 miles. Turn right onto Wall Street.

By train: Princeton Junction is the main train station along the Northeast Corridor for Amtrak and New Jersey Transit. Visitors can take a cab from here to Princeton or transfer to a one−car train to Princeton called the "Dinky". The train ride takes about 5 minutes, and drops you at University Place across from McCarter Theatre. If you choose this option, be sure to purchase a rail ticket to "Princeton" for presentation upon boarding the Dinky.

Our office is a 10−minute cab ride from Princeton station (approx. 4.5 miles).

By bus: Several buses arrive and depart daily from Princeton Research Park (i.e., New Jersey Transit's 605 Montgomery Line). From the bus station, walk into the Research Park office complex. We are located at #20 Wall Street.

For emergencies while traveling within India, you may contact our Jaipur office. Details will be provided in your travel vouchers, which are issued upon full payment.

Terms &Coniditions

PAYMENT TERMS: 25% of total tour cost due at the time of booking 75% or balance no later than 65 days prior to tour departure date  CANCELLATION FEES: (i) 25% of the total tour value if cancelled more than 45 days prior to date of first service sold by TRAVBUZZ / PALACE TOURS (ii) 55% of the total tour value if cancelled 20−44 days prior to date of first service sold by TRAVBUZZ / PALACE TOURS (ii) 100% of the total tour value if cancelled 0−19 days prior to date of first service sold by TRAVBUZZ / PALACE TOURS  We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover the losses incurred in case of cancellation. For information on available plans or to purchase travel insurance, please visit www.palacetours.com/insurance. Â

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