India. By Oberoi. Exclusively for the programme attendees of Knight Frank India • Indonesia • Dubai • Mauritius • Egypt • Saudi Arabia A legacy of globally acclaimed luxury business and leisure hotels
THE OBEROI UDAIVILAS, UDAIPUR Best hotel in the world in 2007 Travel + Leisure, Readers Poll
THE OBEROI, GURGAON Voted world’s leading luxury hotel in 2013 World Travel Awards
THE OBEROI VANYAVILAS, RANTHAMBHORE Best hotel in the world in 2010 Travel + Leisure, Readers Poll North
Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas
The Oberoi Rajvilās, Jaipur Agra – The City of Taj Mahal
The Oberoi Udaivilās, Udaipur The Oberoi Vanyavilās, West Ranthambhore East
The Oberoi, Mumbai
The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda, Backwater Cruiser, Kerala
South Agra
Agra is the only city in the world that boasts of three UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort and the old capital of Fatehpur Sikri, legacies of the Mughal Empire from the 16th and 17th centuries. The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra Located 600 meters from the monument of love, Taj Mahal, the hotel encapsulates its beauty & romance. Places of interest
Taj Mahal Itmad-ud-Daulah
Built as a mausoleum in memory of Emperor Shah Lyrically described as a “jewel box in marble”, the Jahan ’s wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal, often small, yet elegant garden tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, described as “poetry in marble,” is considered to be the “Lord Treasurer” of the Mughal empire, was built the most beautiful monument in the world. The layout over a period of six years from 1622 A.D. It was built of the complex with its gardens and fountains is similar by his daughter Empress Nur Jehan, Jehangir ’ s to that of an Islamic garden of paradise. Over 20,000 favorite wife. This tomb is a brilliant combination of craftsmen labored for 22 years to build this magnificent white marble, colored mosaic, stone inlay and structure that needs to be seen and experienced at latticework. different times of the day to appreciate its grandeur. Agra Fort Fatehpur Sikri
Agra Fort was built by Emperor Akbar between 1565 Built by Emperor Akbar in 1571 A.D. in honor of the A.D. and 1573 A.D. Its imposing red sandstone ramparts famous Sufi saint Salim Chisti, Fatehpur Sikri was the form a crescent along the riverfront and encompass an capital of the Mughal empire for 14 years. A fine enormous complex of courtly buildings, ranging in style example of a Mughal walled city with well-defined from the early eclectism of Akbar to the sublime public and private areas and imposing gateways, its simplicity of Emperor Shah Jehan. architecture is a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles, reflecting Akbar’s secular vision as well as his style of Keoladeo Ghana National Park governance.
Keoladeo Ghana National Park, situated 54 kilometers from Agra on the eastern edge of Rajasthan, is one of Asia’s finest sanctuaries for local and migratory, water and waterside birds, including the rare Siberian Crane. Spread over an area of 30 square kilometers, the park is a rare and valuable nature conservation area and is a World Heritage site. North
Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas
Jaipur – City of Forts and Gems Stones The Oberoi Amarvilās, Agra
The Oberoi Udaivilās, Udaipur The Oberoi Vanyavilās, West Ranthambhore East
The Oberoi, Mumbai
The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda, Backwater Cruiser, Kerala
South Jaipur
For centuries, travellers from all over the world have been drawn to the majesty and colour of Rajasthan and its capital city, Jaipur. Founded more than 250 years ago by Maharaja Jai Singh II, Jaipur is also known as the ‘Pink City’. The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur Recreating the glory of princely Rajasthan, the hotel is designed in a beautiful fort setting. Places of interest
Amber Fort Jaigarh Fort Amber was the first royal residence of the Maharajas. Above Amber fort lies the Jaigarh fort. It is one of the Today it stands with magnificent glory and consists of few military structures of medieval India preserved complex palaces, halls, pavilions, gardens and temples almost intact. It contains palaces, gardens, open and built by Raja Man Singh, Mirza Raja Jai Singh and Sawai covered reservoirs, a granary, an armory, a well Jai Singh over a period of 125 years and completed in planned cannon foundry, several temples and a tall the 17th century. A visit to Amber is a must for any tower. It also has a giant mounted cannon - the visitor to Jaipur. Jai Ban - one of the largest cannons in the country. While Amber was the royal residence, guarding it stood The Albert Hall the military fortress of Jaigarh. The beautiful Indo-Victorian structure of the Albert hall designed by Sir Swinton Jacob was opened in 1887 Hawa Mahal A.D. as a public museum. It contains a fine collection Built by Sawai Pratap Singh in the 18th century, Hawa of sculptures, paintings, decorative art objects, Mahal has unique and fascinating facade with five natural history specimens, an Egyptian mummy and storeys of windows, with latticed stone screens. From the celebrated Persian garden carpet. these screened windows, the ladies of the court would view the city below. City Palace The former ruling family of Jaipur still lives in the Nahargarh Fort Chandra Mahal or Moon Palace, now popularly known as This fort stands guard over Jaipur; on a sheer rock the City Palace. The outer and the inner courtyard have face about 2 kilometers from the city centre, been converted into a public museum. It houses an dominating the skyline. The immense walls and extensive collection of rare manuscripts, Mughal and bastions are well preserved. Built by the Maharaja Jai Rajasthani miniatures, Mughal carpets, and other royal Singh II, this fort was used as his military base. The paraphernalia. A visit to the City Palace is highly main attraction is the Hawa Mandir and Madhuvendra recommended for any visitor to Jaipur. Bhawan used by Jai Singh II for housing his nine wives. It is also famous for its painting and artwork. North
Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas
The Oberoi Rajvilās, Jaipur The Oberoi Amarvilās, Agra
Udaipur – City of Lakes and Palaces The Oberoi Vanyavilās, West Ranthambhore East
The Oberoi, Mumbai
The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda, Backwater Cruiser, Kerala
South Udaipur
Udaipur, rated the ‘Best City in the World’ by the readers of Travel + Leisure magazine in 2009. A glittering oasis in the heart of Rajasthan, the city has magnificent forts, palaces and temples. The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur Rooms with terraces that open on to semi-private swimming pools are a unique feature of this hotel. Places of interest
City Palace Crystal Gallery The City Palace stands on a hill on the banks of Lake The Crystal Gallery in Fateh Prakash Hotel overlooks Pichola, surrounded by crenulated walls. Founded in the grand Durbar Hall. It has a rare collection of 1567 A.D., it is composed of four major palaces and Osler’s crystal ordered from England by Maharana several minor palaces that form a single façade. Its Sajjan Singh in 1877 A.D. It includes crystal main entrance is through a triple arched gate, the chandeliers and crystal furniture like chairs, dressing Tripolia, built in 1725 A.D. The gate leads to a series of tables and a bed. courtyards, corridors and gardens. A visit to the City Palace is highly recommended. Sahelion ki Bari Maharana Sangram Singh built this garden for his Jagdish Temple daughter and the ladies of the Queen’s court. It is Built in 1651 A.D. by Maharana Jagat Singh I and said he wished to recreate the monsoon for his dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple has an imposing daughter, who had been ill for a long period. The 79 feet high pagoda covered with sculptures of garden has many fountains in four pools embellished dancers, musicians, elephants and horsemen. It is the with delicately chiselled pavilions and elephants. The city’s largest and most resplendent temple. fountains still work on the unique hydraulic system devised in 1700 A.D.
Sajjan Garh Fateh Sagar Lake Also known as the Monsoon Palace, it is located on top Built by Maharana Fateh Singh, this elegant lake is of a hill overlooking Lake Pichola and dominates the surrounded by hills on three sides and a dam on the city ’ s skyline. Built in the late 19th century by fourth side. A boat ride to Nehru Park, an island Maharana Sajjan Singh as an observatory, it has a garden, can be arranged from the banks of the lake. breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding lakes, rivers and Aravalli ranges. It is surrounded by wooded hillsides and was once a royal hunting ground. North
Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas
The Oberoi Rajvilās, Jaipur The Oberoi Amarvilās, Agra
The Oberoi Udaivilās, Udaipur Ranthambhore – City of Royal Bengal Tiger West East
The Oberoi, Mumbai
The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda, Backwater Cruiser, Kerala
South Ranthambhore
Ranthambhore was once the private hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur. In 1955 it was declared a National Park under the ‘Save the Tiger’ initiative and is probably the best place to spot the Royal Bengal Tiger. Ranked the 2nd best resort in Asia: Condé Nast Traveler, USA 2012.
The Oberoi Vanyavilas, a luxury jungle resort, is located adjacent to the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve. Complementing the jungle surroundings are luxury tents with private walled gardens. With its natural beauty, serenity and proximity to the Reserve, the resort provides a unique opportunity to enjoy wildlife in its natural habitat. Places of interest
Ranthambhore Fort Sawai Madhopur Nearly 1000 years old, the fort is situated on a Villages near this township on the outskirts of the park are hill rising 250 meters above the densely famous for folk arts, especially the distinctive decorative forested valleys. It has majestic ramparts, paintings that adorn the walls of the mud houses in the area. massive gates and bastions and is a vantage point for bird watching. On rare occasions, tigers can also be spotted from the top of the Visit to Dhonk and Dastakar fort. Walking in the National Park is prohibited Guests interested in shopping local art and craft may visit but you can walk around the fort. A 20-minute ‘Dhonk’ and ‘Dastakar’ which are co-operative women’s walk takes you up to the fort and all around are societies set up to engage village women in self sustenance the remains of old water tanks, palaces and and also promote local art and craft. A wide range of quality mosques. products are available ranging from clothing, household furnishing to children’s toys which are produced on site. The Ranthambhore Fort also houses a very famous Ganesh Temple where hundreds of people throng during the Ganesh Chaturthi Ranthambhore School of Art festival. It is also the only temple in the world Ranthambhore is famous for the exquisite tiger paintings on silk with a mail box wherein millions of devotees and charcoal sketches alike. You may visit the home studio of send in their invitation and prayers to Lord Ranthambhore’s most famous artist, Mr. M.D. Parashar whose Ganesha and His family to bless their homes “Tiger Eye” sketch is renowned over the world and especially during auspicious celebrations. his own unique technique of Soot Sketching. A recipient of many National and International awards, Mr. Parashar leads a simple and exemplary life. To enable young locals a sustainable livelihood, he opened Ranthambhore School of Art, which provides free painting classes. North
Shimla – City of Himalayas
The Oberoi Rajvilās, Jaipur The Oberoi Amarvilās, Agra
The Oberoi Udaivilās, Udaipur The Oberoi Vanyavilās, West Ranthambhore East
The Oberoi, Mumbai
The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda, Backwater Cruiser, Kerala
South Shimla The Himalayas
For centuries, the majestic Himalayas have fascinated travellers and evoked a sense of awe and admiration. Nestled in the mid western ranges of the Himalayas is Shimla, the summer capital during the British rule. Ranked 2nd best resort in Asia: Condé Nast Traveller, UK 2010 Readers’ Choice Awards.
Situated in the magnificent Himalayas, Wildflower Hall is set amidst evergreen forest and presents a picture of breathtaking natural beauty. The resort stands handsomely amidst acres of cedar and pine trees, bearing testimony to its rich colonial heritage. Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas Enjoy stunning views of the majestic Himalayas as you savour the finest in international and Indian cuisine. Places of interest
Christ Church The Mall The church on the Ridge by the Mall is the second The Mall has always been a place to be seen at, for oldest in North India. Constructed in the Neo-Gothic local Shimla residents. It has offered great shopping style, it boasts one of the finer pipe-organs in India and sprees to visitors since the 1800’s. The unique feature its fine stained glass windows were designed by of vehicular traffic being forbidden on the mall has Rudyard Kipling’s father; Lockwood Kipling. only added to its appeal. The Gaiety theatre, the Town Hall, St. Michael’s Cathedral and the General Himachal State Museum Post Office are good examples of colonial architecture The Museum exhibits a rich display of the state ’ s on the Mall. cultural, artistic and archaeological heritage. The museum is located on a hillock adjacent to the Viceregal Lodge Viceregal Lodge. The former residence of the Viceroy of India, this fine example of Scottish Baronial architecture was Jakhoo Hill completed in 1888 A.D. It’s grey stone masonry, tiled This is Shimla’s highest point at 2,400 meters. It offers pitch roof, interiors with elaborately carved Burma a panoramic view of the town, hills, and mountain teak and expansive gardens speak of the glory of a ranges. The peak has a temple dedicated to Lord bygone era. This building also played an important Hanuman and co-incidentally, the surroundings of the part during the partition of India and presently it temple are ruled by a large troupe of monkeys. houses The Indian Institute Of Advanced Studies. Naldehra Naldhera is a forty-five minute drive from the hotel. The Viceroy, Lord Curzon, was so enchanted by this spot that he gave his daughter “ Naldehra ” as her middle name. He also created Indian’s first nine-hole golf course at this site. Golfing is available between March and December. North
Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas
The Oberoi Rajvilās, Jaipur The Oberoi Amarvilās, Agra
The Oberoi Udaivilās, Udaipur The Oberoi Vanyavilās, West Ranthambhore East
The Oberoi, Mumbai
Cochin, Kerala – City of Backwaters
South Kerala The Backwaters
Kerala, commonly known as “God’s own country” is one of India’s most enchanting destinations. Its picturesque backwaters are a unique feature. They meander through a series of scenic canals and lakes. Motor Vessel Vrinda takes you on a journey through these tranquil waterways. Enjoy beautiful scenery in an atmosphere of luxury and comfort. Motor Vessel Vrinda has elegant interiors and offers excellent facilities. The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda, Backwater Cruiser, Kerala Witness the magical view of the sunset. Excursion highlights Half-statue of Lord Buddha; Centuries old Church and Hindu temple; Snake boat yard, housing the traditional long boats used for races; Ride on a traditional rice boat. A qualified guide will be on board to accompany the guests on all excursions. Places of interest
Bolghatty Palace Mattancherry Palace Built by the Dutch in 1744 A.D., this palace is on an Built in oriental style, the Mattancherry Palace was island, off Cochin in the ocean. The building was once a originally built by the Portuguese and presented to the Governor’s palace, for the Dutch and later the home of king of Cochin in 1555 A.D. It was later taken over by the British Governors. The evening boat cruise will take the Dutch who improved it through extensions and one all around the island. The palace is two-storied and repairs in 1663 A.D. One of the oldest buildings in contains well-decorated bed chambers and a huge Kerala, the Mattancherry Palace is a double-storied lounge where historical portraits are displayed. quadrangular building that is a portrait gallery of the kings of Cochin. In the centre of the building is the Jewish Synagogue Coronation Hall where the Cochin Rajas held their The Jewish Synagogue at Cochin is the oldest coronations. Synagogue in the commonwealth countries. It houses some of the scrolls of the Old Testament in the original Pathiranamal Island Hebrew. Built in 1568 A.D., it also preserves the grants The little island of Pathiramanal on the Backwaters is of privilege that were bequeathed to the Jewish a favorite haunt of hundreds of rare migratory birds community by the erstwhile Kochi rulers. There are from different parts of the area. The green island thus nearly two hundred exquisite hand painted blue forms an ideal place for a break in the journey while Chinese tiles, not one of which resembles any other. on a backwater cruise.
St. Francis’ Church St Francis’ Church in Cochin is the oldest European- built church in India. Built in 1503 A.D. by the Portuguese, it housed the remains of Vasco Da Gama, the famous explorer who was the first European to land on the shores of India. His remains were later removed to Lisbon. ITINERARY 1 – Delhi-Jaipur-Agra-Delhi (6 Days)
Day 1: Delhi Arrive in New Delhi and transfer to The Oberoi. The hotel room is available for immediate check-in on arrival. Delhi Afternoon: Visit the walled city of Old Delhi, Guarded by the Red Fort (a World Heritage Site) built in 1648. Its narrow alleys are dotted with countless landmarks Jaipur including India’s largest mosque, the Jama Masjid and Agra the legendary marketplace of Chandni Chowk that stocks everything from spices and perfumes, to jewellery and dress materials. Overnight at the hotel Day 2: Delhi - Jaipur Morning: Depart by road for Jaipur (approximately 4 Day 3: Jaipur hours drive). Morning: Yoga session at the hotel. Afternoon: A tour of the City Palace, Hawa Mahal, also Afternoon: A visit to the Amber Fort. An elephant ride known as the ‘Palace of Winds’ and the fascinating takes you up to the fort. Spend rest of the day shopping observatory built by Raja Jai Singh in 1728. in the city for gem stones, silver jewellery and hand Evening: Experience the traditional ‘Aarti’ (prayer) at painted textiles. the ancient Shiva Temple within the hotel followed by a Evening: An insight into Rajasthani culture and its past rejuvenating spa therapy at the Oberoi Spa. by a historian. Overnight at the hotel Overnight at the hotel ITINERARY 1 – Delhi-Jaipur-Agra-Delhi
Day 4: Jaipur - Agra Morning: Depart for Agra by road. Visit the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri enroute to Agra. On arrival in Agra, check in at The Oberoi Amarvilas. Afternoon: Visit Agra Fort (a World Heritage Site) and Itmad-ud-Daulah, regarded as an imminent precursor of the Taj Mahal. Evening: Get an insight into the legacies of the Mughal Empire by a historian. Overnight at the hotel Day 5: Agra Morning: Visit the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Evening: At leisure. Overnight at the hotel Day 6: Agra - Delhi Morning: Depart by road for Delhi. On arrival in Delhi, check in at The Oberoi. Evening: At leisure. Overnight at the hotel. ITINERARY 2 – Delhi-Udaipur-Jaipur-Delhi
Day 1: Delhi Arrive in New Delhi and transfer to The Oberoi. The hotel room is available for immediate check-in on arrival. Delhi Afternoon: Visit the walled city of Old Delhi, Guarded by the Red Fort (a World Heritage Site) built in 1648. Its narrow alleys are dotted with countless landmarks including India’s largest mosque, the Jama Masjid and the legendary Agra marketplace of Chandni Chowk that stocks everything from Udaipur spices and perfumes, to jewellery and dress materials. Overnight at the hotel Day 2: Delhi - Udaipur Morning: Spend the morning relaxing in your room or enjoy a massage at the Oberoi Spa. Day 3: Udipur Afternoon: Depart by air for Udaipur (1 hour 35 minutes Morning: Yoga session at the hotel, followed by a tour flight). On arrival in Udaipur, transfer to The Oberoi of the city including a visit to the magnificent City Udaivilas. Palace, the Museum and the grand 400 year old Jagdish Temple devoted to Lord Vishnu. Evening: Visit the Bada Mahal Wildlife Conservatory, a natural home to peacocks, wild boar and spotted deer, Afternoon: Shopping excursion followed by an Ayurvedic located adjacent to the hotel. Visit the 200 year old hunting massage at the Oberoi Spa. lodge of the Maharanas of Udaipur and witness frescoes done Evening: A candlelit dinner overlooking the Lake in the ‘Gotai’ style using lime and marble paste. Pichola. Overnight at the hotel Overnight at the hotel ITINERARY 2 – Delhi-Udaipur-Jaipur-Delhi
Day 4: Udaipur - Jaipur Morning: Depart by road for Jaipur (approximately 6 hours drive) The Oberoi Rajvilas. Evening: Relax at the hotel and take an insight into Rajasthani culture and its past by a historian. Overnight at the hotel Day 5: Jaipur Morning: Yoga session at the hotel followed by a tour of the City Palace, Hawa Mahal, also known as the ‘Palace of Winds’ and the fascinating observatory built by Raja Jai Singh in 1728. Afternoon: A visit to the Amber Fort. An elephant ride takes you up to the fort. Evening: Spend the day shopping in the city for gem stones, silver jewellery and hand painted textiles. Overnight at the hotel Day 6: Jaipur - Delhi Morning: Depart for Delhi by air (approximately 50 minutes flight) Arrive in New Delhi and transfer to The Oberoi. The hotel room is available for immediate check-in on arrival. Choice of sightseeing or shopping. Next morning: Transfer to the airport for your onward destination. ITINERARY 3 – Mumbai-Jaipur-Udaipur-Mumbai
Day 1: Mumbai Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to The Oberoi. Jaipur Udaipur The hotel room is available for immediate check-in on arrival. Overnight at the hotel Mumbai Day 2: Mumbai - Udaipur Morning: Spend the morning taking a stroll on the beautiful marine drive and Gateway of India. Afternoon: Depart by air for Udaipur (1 hour 30 minutes Day 3: Udaipur flight). On arrival in Udaipur, transfer to The Oberoi Morning: Yoga session at the hotel, followed by a tour Udaivilas. of the city including a visit to the magnificent City Evening: Visit the Bada Mahal Wildlife Conservatory, a Palace, the Museum and the grand 400 year old Jagdish natural home to peacocks, wild boar and spotted d e e r, Temple devoted to Lord Vishnu. located adjacent to the hotel. Visit the 200 year old Afternoon: Shopping excursion followed by an Ayurvedic hunting lodge of the Maharanas of Udaipur and witness massage at the Oberoi Spa. frescoes done in the ‘Gotai’ style using lime and marble paste. Evening: A candlelit dinner overlooking the Lake Pichola. Overnight at the hotel Overnight at the hotel ITINERARY 3 – Mumbai-Jaipur-Udaipur-Mumbai Day 4: Udaipur - Jaipur Morning: Depart by road for Jaipur (approximately 6 hours drive) The Oberoi Rajvilas. Evening: Relax at the hotel and take an insight into Rajasthani culture and its past by a historian. Overnight at the hotel Day 5: Jaipur Morning: Yoga session at the hotel followed by a tour of the City Palace, Hawa Mahal, also known as the ‘Palace of Winds’ and the fascinating observatory built by Raja Jai Singh in 1728. Afternoon: A visit to the Amber Fort. An elephant ride takes you up to the fort. Evening: Spend the day shopping in the city for gem stones, silver jewellery and hand painted textiles. Overnight at the hotel Day 6: Jaipur - Mumbai Morning: Depart for Mumbai by air (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes flight) Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to The Oberoi. The hotel room is available for immediate check-in on arrival. Choice of sightseeing or shopping. Next morning: Transfer to the airport for your onward destination.