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Home , Darjeeling Mail, Sundarbans National Park

Palace Tours − Luxury Tours Collection The luxurious Darjeeling Mail Westbound The luxurious Darjeeling Mail Westbound

Carefully designed to take in the very best that Northern has to offer, the 'Darjeeling Mail' tour covers everything from India's most important cities to spectacular UNESCO−listed sights such as the , the 'ghost city' of and the unique Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.

Your tour starts in , considered to be the cultural capital of India. Journey to Darjeeling, where you may explore the local area with its tiger sanctuary, tranquil streets and magnificent views of the world's highest mountains. Snow−capped Kanchenjunga, the third−highest, is most prominent but on clear days from Tiger Hill you can even see the peak of Everest some 200 miles away. One of the highlights of this very special tour will be the time spent in the Himalayas where you will zig−zag and loop between the mountains via the steam−powered 'Toy Train' of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway one of only two UNESCO−listed railways in the world. This portion of your journey takes around eight hours to ascend briefly from Darjeeling to Ghum at 7,400ft at descend from there to .

Board the Maharaja Express luxury train, which will be your home for the next seven nights as you travel south−west through India. Visit the holy city of Varanasi (formerly Benares), perched on the banks of the River where you will take a private cruise, as well a walk along the city's famous 'ghats.' Arrive in India's modern capital of Delhi, visit the "Pink City" of with its incredible Amber Fort and spend a full day in Agra, home of the magnificent Taj Mahal. Continue on to the train's final destination, Mumbai, stopping in the peaceful "City of Lakes," Udaipur, en route. End your journey in Mumbai, home to the 'Gateway of India' where you will disembark the train and spend two nights at a luxury hotel to round off your journey which will remain in your memory forever.

ITINERARY

• Day 1 − Welcome to Kolkata You are met upon arrival at Kolkata airport and transferred to the Taj Bengal hotel in Kolkata for a two night stay.

• Day 2 − Sightseeing tour of Kolkata

After breakfast in the hotel, spend the day on a sightseeing tour of Kolkata, which has long been known for its literary, artistic and revolutionary heritage. As the former capital of India, Kolkata (Calcutta) was the birthplace of modern Indian literary and artistic thought. Today's tour includes a visit to the Victoria Memorial, one of the finest and most prominent buildings in the city which houses a museum dedicated to the history of India; Dalhousie Square, the bustling hub of English colonial power and trade during the two centuries that the city served as the capital of British India; and the atmospheric South Park Cemetery. Alternatively, you may wish to join a tour to Balur Math, the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission and a place of pilgrimage. Continue on to the Dakshinewar Temple and the Botanical Gardens, both exhibiting a wide variety of rare plants and a total collection of over 12,000 specimens including the Great Banyan tree.

• Day 3 − The 'Toy Train' journey into Darjeeling

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Kolkata airport for a 1−hour flight to and transfer to the quintessential hill station of Darjeeling. You have the choice to transfer either by bus (3−4 hours) or the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) 'Toy Train', which takes about 6 1/2 hours. The train passes the most breathtaking scenery and reaches a height of 7,400 feet at Ghum (the highest station on ), where snow−covered Mt. Kanchenchunga (28,000 feet/8,600 meters and the world's third highest mountain) dominates the skyline, before dropping 600 feet into Darjeeling. The ancient steam locomotives (the oldest built in 1889) climb through zigzags and loops to gain height and the cooler air of India's most famous Hill Station. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is the most famous hill railway in the world and in 1999 secured UNESCO World Heritage status. A packed lunch is served on the

1 Darjeeling train before an early evening arrival into Darjeeling. Dinner is served at the Hotel Mayfair (or similar), where the next three nights are spent.

• Day 4 − Darjeeling town tour

Awaken this morning to the breathtaking scenery of Mount Kanchenchunga. After breakfast, you are offered the chance to ride the DHR up to Batasia Loop and Ghum, a 7 km journey that takes approximately 45 minutes and climbs 600 feet. The train leaves the colonial grandeur of Darjeeling behind as it travels along the road crossing overloaded buses, trucks and cars and passes within inches of roadside shops, houses and monasteries. Return to Darjeeling and enjoy a town tour which includes a visit to a Tibetan refugee center, where you are able to purchase handicrafts and learn about some of the famous mountaineering expeditions at the Himalayan Institute.

• Day 5 − Trip to Tiger Hill and a tea plantation

Today you have the option to take an early morning trip to Tiger Hill to experience the awe−inspiring sight of the sun rising over the Himalayas. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, weather permitting, as you are able to watch the sun light up the snow capped mountains of Kanchenchunga and Everest, situated 200 miles away. This afternoon, visit a tea plantation where you can sample some of this famous local beverage.

• Day 6 − Board the Maharaja Express in Siliguri

On your final morning in this haven of tranquillity; breakfast is served at the hotel. Transfer by motorbus to Siliguri station to join the waiting Maharaja Express luxury train. Settle into your beautifully appointed cabin and enjoy the hospitable atmosphere of the Bar Car before experiencing fine Indian or western cuisine prepared by the onboard chefs.

• Day 7 − The holy city of Varanasi

Arrive early this morning into Varanasi, situated on the banks of the Ganges. A cultural and religious center for thousands of years, it is one of the holiest places in India. Believed to be between 3,000 5,000 years old, it is the oldest continually inhabited city in the world. Pilgrims come from afar to bathe in the waters of the Ganges; a ritual that Hindus believe washes away all sin and cleanses them mentally, physically and spiritually. It is a priviledge to experience this ceremony. You may take a private river cruise, after which there is time for a guided walk through the streets of the old city.

• Day 8 − World Heritage Site of Fatehpur Sikri

After breakfast, visit the magnificent 'ghost city' of Fatehpur Sikri, an oasis of calm that is designated as a World Heritage Site. Lunch is served on board the train on the way to Agra. This afternoon, enjoy an outing to the red sandstone , an impressive building that dominates the city skyline.

• Day 9 − Visit the magnificent Taj Mahal

Today is dedicated to visiting possibly the most famous building in the world − the Taj Mahal. Built in 1648 by Shah Jahan as a monument of undying love to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, it is India's most fascinating and illustrious landmark. Perfectly symmetrical, it took 22 years and 20,000 workers to create this truly stunning marble architectural wonder of the world.

• Day 10 − Full day sightseeing tour of Delhi One of the oldest cities in the world, Delhi is a bustling and vibrant city. Some of the fascinating sights you will visit include the Jama Masjid Mosque, one of the most important and majestic mosques in Delhi − its name literally means "the mosque commanding a view of the world;" the Raj Ghat memorial to Mahatma Gandhi; Humayuns Tomb which is considered to be an important milestone in the history of Mughal architecture; and Qutab Minar, the tallest brick minaret

2 in the world at 237.8 ft (72.5 m) which dates from 1368. Tonight, enjoy dinner on board the train.

• Day 11 − Explore the "Pink City" of Jaipur After breakfast, arrive into Jaipur, the colorful capital of . Visit the Amber Fort, where one of the highlights is its magnificent hall of mirrors. After lunch, your tour takes in the Jantar Mantar observatory, City Palace and the beautiful Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). Constructed out of pink sandstone in 1799, the Hawa Mahal was designed to extend the chambers of the harem and allow royal ladies to observe everyday life in the street below without being seen. If time permits, you may visit a famous fabric market before returning to the train to freshen up. Tonight's dinner is served at the elegant Rambagh Palace Hotel, where you can savor the fantastic views across the immaculate lawns.

• Day 12 − Travel to Udaipur, "City of Lakes"

A relaxing morning is spent on board the train where you can watch the Indian countryside pass by your window or socialize with fellow passengers in the Lounge car. You also have the opportunity to listen to a talk on Indian culture and the way of life before arriving into Udaipur, otherwise known as "City of Lakes," or "Venice of the East." Surrounded by some of the most spectacular lakes in the state, Udaipur is also famous for its Rajput−era palaces. This afternoon, spend some time admiring the wonderful Lake Palace which covers a whole island in Lake Picchola and is made entirely of marble. Also visit City Palace, recognized by many as the most beautiful palace in the city with rooms superbly decorated with mirror tiles and paintings.

• Day 13 − Disembark the Maharaja Express in Mumbai

Enjoy your morning on board the train as it travels to Mumbai. Disembark the train and check in to the Taj Mahal Hotel which is ideally located at 'The Gateway of India' for a two night stay. In the afternoon, take a boat trip to Elephanta Island which is thickly wooded with palm, mango and tamarind trees. Here, explore a fascinating cave complex dating back to the 3rd to 5th centuries. Marvel at the statues and works of art designed to depict the life of Lord Shiva, one of the most auspicious Hindu gods. If you are lucky, you may even have the chance to see some of the monkeys that live on the island.

• Day 14 − A visit to the “Dhobi Ghats†Enjoy a morning tour of Mumbai as you feast your senses on the sights and sounds of typical Indian life. Today, visit the Ghobi Dhats, an intriguing outdoor laundry. Continue on to Fort Bombay in Gandhi's House, now turned into a fascinating museum, depicting his inspirational life. Today's lunch will be served at a local restaurant. This evening, you are invited to attend a farewell dinner at the hotel and say your goodbyes to fellow travelers.

• Day 15 − Departure day Check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your departure flight home or to your next exciting destination.

DESTINATION INFORMATION

• Agra

Agra, which lies on the west bank of river Jamuna, became one of the principal cities of the Mughal Empire, as the capital of the Emperor Shah Jahan and his beautiful Queen Mumtaz Mahal. Its beautiful monuments and the rich presence of color and harmony make it a place worth visiting at least once. But the most important of Agra's tourist attractions and its main claim to fame is the magnificent Taj Mahal, the pride of India. Taj Mahal is considered as one of the eight wonders of the world. The architecture alone has inspired reams of rapture over the years. Other tourist attractions in Agra include the Rambagh and Dayalbagh Gardens, Chini ka Rauza, and Jama Masjid. Agra , an elegant military structure constructed by Akbar (but partially converted into a palace by Shah Jahan), gives you a feel of Agra's rich past.

3 • Calcutta / Kolkata

Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital of the Indian state of 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 (a distributary of the Ganges), Kolkata was arguably second only to London 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.

• Darjeeling

Darjeeling the dream land of the East. Also called "Queen of Hills", it has been a popular hill station since the British period. Darjeeling is best known as the centre for India's tea trade. It is surrounded by lofty mountains and the view from over the mountains to the snowy peaks of Kanchenjunga and down to the swollen rivers in the valleys are magnificent. You can also visit the Buddhist monastries or take a chairlift to go trekking to high−altitude spots for closer views of Kanchenjunga (the name means "House of Five Treasures").

• Fatehpur Sikri

The royal city at Fatehpur Sikri, situated 26 miles west of Agra, was built at the orders of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. It is predominately built in red sandstone. The Emperor buildt a magnificent city as an act of gratitude to a saint, made it the capital of his empire, and then, due to the shortage of water supply, the pristine complex was abandoned. This deserted city has two complexes. The first has the royal enclosure of the palaces and the official buildings. And the second dargah of a Sufi saint, with a mosque and a lofty gateway.

• Mumbai (Bombay)

Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is the capital of the state of . It is the most populous city of India, with an estimated metropolitan population of about 12 million (2005). Mumbai is almost overflowing with sights to see: fascinating culture, bustling city life and interesting landmarks. An abundance of outdoor markets and fine stores make this destination a shoppers dream. The city is home to India's film and television industry, known as Bollywood. Mumbai is also one of the rare cities to accommodate a national park, the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, within its city limits.

• New Delhi

The national capital territory of Delhi is situated between the Himalayas and Aravalis Ranges in the heart of the Indian sub−continent. Delhi is considered one of the most historic capitals in the world, and two of its monuments the Qutab Minar and Humayun's Tomb have been declared World Heritage Sites. Exploring Delhi is both rewarding and fascinating. The most visited places in Delhi include the majestic Red Fort, the historical Chandni Chowk, as well as Raj Ghat and Shanti Vana −− modern structures constructed after India's Independence in 1947.

The city was built and destroyed seven times and has been witness to the various events which have brought India through the history books. It is believed that the Pandavas, the heroes of the epic Mahabharata, originally founded Delhi (then called Indraprastha) around 1200 B.C. Present day Delhi is built around the ruins of seven ancient cities.

4 As a commercial hub, Delhi has many shopping areas to offer its tourists. Visit the upscale avenues of Connaught Place, or go to Delhi Haat for handicraft goods. Don't forget to stop at Janpath Market for a variety of inexpensive traditional and souvenir items to bring home to your friends and relations.

• Udaipur

Udaipur is known as the Venice of the East and is also called the City of Lakes. It is certainly an oasis in the landscape of Rajasthan, with blue waters surrounded by beautiful green hills. Udaipur has been the capital of the world's longest ruling dynasty − the Sisodias of Mewar. The temple of Eklingji, the patron deity of Udaipur royal family is worth visiting as are the nearby Sas−Bahu temples at Nagda. Lake Pichola is one of the central attractions of Udaipur. The grand City Palace sits on the banks of the lake and the Palace on the hills nearby. All palaces in Udaipur are located on its banks or over its waters. It is quite rare to find any other body of water in the world having so many historic buildings as part of its premises.

• Varanasi

Varanasi stands on the west bank of the river Ganges as it flows through the north Indian state of . This city has found a prominent place in the Buddhist scriptures as well the epic of Mahabharata. 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.

Price Chart

All prices quoted in U.S. Dollars ($) per person Group Tour Rates Class Dates Single Rate Double Rate Deluxe For departure September 14,2012 $19,995.00 $12,995.00 Suite For departure September 14,2012 $27,995.00 $18,995.00 Your tour price includes:

• 07 Nights accommodation on board the Maharaja Express train • 02 Nights accommodation in a luxury hotel in Calcutta • 03 Nights accommodation in a luxury hotel in Darjeeling • 02 Nights accommoddation in a luxury hotel in Mumbai • Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners as specified in the itinerary • Travel and sightseeing as per the itinerary

Your tour price does not include:

• International or domestic airfare • Airport departure taxes • Travel insurance or visa fees • Still or video camera fees at monuments • Laundry services, additional toiletries, gratuities, souvenirs or any other items of a personal nature • Any expenses not specifically mentioned as Included

HOTELS AND RESORTS

5 • Taj Bengal, Kolkata , Calcutta / Kolkata (5−star)

34B, Belvedere Road, Alipore Taj Bengal is located in an exclusive and verdant pocket in Alipore in the heart of Kolkata. The hotel is ensconced by flora and foliage that teems with birdlife including several species of rare birds. It is just 10 minutes away from the city centre and Kolkata's main business district. The hotel overlooks the Victoria Memorial, the Race Course and the National Library. The Alipore Zoological Gardens is just across the hotel. The airport is 45 minutes away and the railway station is 20 minutes away.

Facilities " Baby sitting arrangements " Banquet Facility " Barber Shop " Beauty Salon " Business Centre: 24 hrs " Cake Shop " Currency Exchange " Florist " Health Club " Health/ Ayurveda Centres " Hotel Safe " Internet/ E−mail/ Fax Facilities " Interpreter Services " Laundry Services − 24 hours " Library " Lounge exclusively for residents " Medical Services " Room service − 24 hours

• The Taj Mahal Palace &Tower, Mumbai , Mumbai (Bombay) (5−star)

Apollo Bunder, Colaba The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai, the first hotel of Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces, was built by the founder of the Tata Group, Mr. Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata, in 1903. The hotel boasts a prime location as it overlooks the scenic Mumbai harbour and the landmark Gateway of India. It offers easy access to the main business, commercial, shopping and entertainment areas of the city. The Taj, a symbol of Indian hospitality, has recently completed its centenary year in 2003. It remains the first choice for discerning business and leisure travellers to the city. It has 21st century communications and business services, a selection of fine restaurants and bars and a comprehensive range of meeting rooms. A personalised butler service is available around the clock. It is 32 kms from the international airport, 7 kms from the railway station. Accommodation in 565 Rooms including 46 suites. All rooms have tea and coffee makers, a mini bar, safe, colour TV, direct dial telephones, colour television with satellite programs, channel music, hair dryer, data port facility. Wi−Fi wireless internet access is available throughout the hotel.

Facilities " Astrologer on Call " Baby sitting arrangements " Barber Shop " Beauty Salon " Book Shops " Business Centre: 24 hrs " Business Facilities " Currency Exchange " Facilities for the Physically Challenged " Florist " Health Club " Health / Ayurveda Centre " Hotel Safe " Internet/ E−mail/ Fax Facilities " Interpreter Services can be organized " Laundry Services " Lounge " Luggage Storage " Medical Services− Doctor on Call " Medical Room " Parking " Phone − Mobile on Hire " Phone−Two Telephone Lines in Rooms " Postal/ Parcel Services " Room Service " Security Escorts can be organized " Shopping Arcade

SUGGESTED EXTENSION TOURS

The Deccan Odyssey − Luxury Roundtrip Journey from Mumbai This Royal Indian train has been benchmarked against the best luxury trains in the world, such as the Blue Train of South Africa, The Orient Express of Europe, and the Eastern and Oriental of South East Asia. The Deccan Odyssey takes you on a week−long journey to some of the best places in Maharashtra in southwest India with just a pinch of Goa, including Mumbai, Sindhudurg, Tarkarli, Aurangabad, Tadoba National Park, Ajanta and Ellora. So come aboard and get ready to travel to the rich past of this state in grand style.

The Thrill in Abundant exotic fauna and flora are available for your discovery as you venture into Sundarbans National Park. The world's largest delta, Sundarbans is covered with salt mud flats and mangrove forest, making it the ideal environment for a wide variety of wildlife, particularly Royal Bengal Tigers!

If you want to feel the essence of spirituality alongside nature, then this is the place to be. Sundarbans is the place of Ma Bonobibi (the goddess of the forest), Shiber Kumir (Lord Shiva's Crocodile), Dakshinaroy (an ogre, the ancestor of all tigers) and Kapil Muni (an incarnation of Vishnu).

Whatever your pleasure, you are sure to find fun and adventure during your Mangrove Thrill in Sundarbans!

6 A Glimpse of God's Own Country Venture through , called "God's Own Country" by those who have seen it. With the Arabian Sea to the west, the towering high above you to the east and forty−four rivers crossing the picturesque landscape, Kerala is a very easy place to find adventure or to simply relax. Tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters, lush green hill stations, exotic wildlife, Ayurvedic health resorts, enchanting art and architecture, magical festivals, historic and cultural monuments and exotic cuisine all contribute to a wonderful and unique experience in .

Trace the backwaters of Kerala as you enjoy A Glimpse of God's Own Country with Palace Tours! This 6−night journey is a wonderful way to enjoy the true Keralan lifestyle while being treated like royalty.

Motor Vessel Vrinda Cruise along the backwaters of Kerala in South India aboard the exclusive Motor Vessel Vrinda. Relax in your deluxe king−bedded cabin with views of the placid Lake , socialize with fellow passengers in Vrinda's lounge and bar area and indulge your taste buds in decadent Keralan and international cuisine. Take exciting excursions to sacred temples, quaint villages and famous monuments before returning to the ship to see traditional cultural performances. You will never forget the royal treatment and unique journey you experience aboard Vrinda.

Temples of South India India is a land of spirituality and religious faith reflected in the profusion of temples present throughout the country. From large monumental structures to small stone−carved buildings, India's temples are lavishly built, aesthetically designed and unmatched in architectural brilliance. The temples are living embodiments of India's rich tradition and culture and are extremely important in the lives of people who hold them in devout regard. Journey through South India in the states of and Kerala on this 10−day privately guided tour for a glimpse of this fascinating heritage.

TRAVEL TIPS & FAQ's

What are the visa requirements? Most visas need to be applied for well in advance, and may require a visa support letter. It is vital that visa requirements are checked in good time as entry requirements vary depending on nationality. It is also important to check if a single, double or multiple entry visa is required for a specific tour. Please contact us for assistance or further information. Is travel insurance required? Yes. We do stress that all guests must have a valid travel insurance policy that covers them for all eventualities. What currency is utilized? On board the train, you will not need much currency, but there are charges for laundry and bar bills. It is possible to run a "tab" on board and make one payment at the end of the tour. If the bill is less than USD $100 you will be required to make your payment in cash. International credit cards (VISA and Mastercard are both accepted) for payments over USD $100. We recommend that you travel with small denominations and clean bills, as you will need money for souvenirs and any shopping you choose to do off the train. You will be advised by the tour Manager and/or guides on how, and if necessary, to change money. Can I use/pay with credit cards and travelers checks? ATM machines are now available in all large towns and cities along our routes. All the hotels that we use accept major credit cards. Traveler's checks are virtually impossible to exchange. When will I receive my tickets and finalized itinerary? A month before departure we will send you a final update letter which will include all the additional information that you will need to know. Tickets will be sent out approximately 4 weeks before departure. What happens when I arrive at the airport or train station? You will be met by one of our representatives who will be waiting with a Palace Tours sign. If arriving by air, this will be after immigration, once you have collected all of your luggage and cleared customs. Our representative will then assist you to your transfer vehicle to the hotel. What happens if I miss my flight, or am delayed? Prior to departure you will receive a 24−hour Emergency Contact Card with your final documentation. This card displays the telephone numbers of our representatives in the country of your arrival. If you have any problems you can call the appropriate person detailed on the card. Can I book a specific cabin? We do our best to try to accommodate all requests, but we can not guarantee them. Please ensure you make any requests at the time of booking.

7 Are there any restrictions on the size and number of pieces of luggage? There is limited storage space inside your cabin, where suitcases may be stored under your bed(s).

Do I need to take my own toiletries? We provide shampoo and shower gel, however we do say that you would probably prefer to bring along your favorite toiletries. Do I need to make any special prior arrangements if I am travelling with medication? You need to ensure that you are travelling with the correct quantities of prescription medication. It is strongly advised that all clients seek medical clearance prior to travelling. Our on−board doctor must be advised of clients travelling with prescription medication. Also, It is highly unusual for anyone to suffer motion sickness whilst on the train, however if you would prefer to take some, you can do so. Do I need any special vaccinations? As with all overseas travel, we recommend that you contact your GP or local travel clinic to get the most up to date information on what vaccinations if any are required.

How many passengers will be on the tour? This all depends on the individual departure. Our maximum capacity is 76, but some of our departures will leave with less than that. The coaches utilized for sightseeing and transport off the train can accommodate a maximum of 35 passengers each. Are children permitted on the tour? Children ages 12 and up are allowed on the tours. They pay the full adult fare. The Train: Are there different types of rooms (suites, standard rooms etc.) on board Palace on Wheels? All rooms on the Maharaja Express are equipped with the latest in technology, LCD TVs, Direct Dial telephone, digital climate controls, DVD players, large modern bathrooms with environmentally friendly toilet systems. Deluxe cabins are the most spacious cabin in its category in the world measuring a total of 110 square feet; the Junior Suite, with a bed−stting arrangement measures 145 square feet; the Suite with a double bed and separate sitting room measures 220 square feet and the Presidential Suite, which can accommodation 2 to 4 passengers. The only one of its kind in the world with two bedrooms, one with twin beds and with a double bed. The Presidentatial Suite measures a total of 465 square feer also includes a separate sitiing/dining room area. What electric voltage is available on the train? Voltage available on the train is 110 volts. International adaptors are also available on board. Is there a doctor or first aid kit on board? There is a doctor on board at all times. There is also a designated "Doctors Surgery" on board the train and this will contain a fully stocked first aid kit. There is also a first aid kit in each carriage, however, it is your own responsibility to ensure that you have adequate supplies of any ongoing medication that you will need for the duration of the journey. Is there a safe in the cabin / onboard the train? All cabins are equipped with and electric safety deposit box. Is smoking permitted? In accordance with Indian Law, smoking is not permissible on board the train. Smoking is also prohibited in all public places such as restaurants, airports, stations, shopping malls, hotels, public areas etc. Can clients with limited mobility be accommodated on the train? The passage inside the carriage is too narrow for a wheelchair to pass through, but one is kept on board if needed for off−train tours. Please advise upon booking if you require a wheelchair and we will do our best to accommodate the request. However, it may not be possible to go on all of the excursions, as some are not wheelchair−accessible. Is it safe to stand up in the shower while the train is moving? Yes it safe to stand up. We can also provide a stool if you would feel more comfortable sitting down while showering. Are meal times set? Yes. Breakfast is normally between 8am and 10am. If however there is an off train tour leaving the train before 10am the Tour manager will advise all passengers so that they have eaten prior to the off−train excursion. Lunch is scheduled around the off−train excursion arrangements, however it is normally between 12:30 and 2pm. Dinner is served at 8pm most evenings. What type of food is provided on−board? The menu is decided by the head chef and he varies both the Continental and Indian menus at each meal. Please advise upon booking if you have any special dietary needs, requests, or allergies. Please also advise the train manager of these special requests upon boarding the train.

Can we request for special meals on board the train Kindly specify any special dietary requirements at the time of booking to avoid disappointment during your journey. Every effort will be made to accommodate all culinary requests; however, we are unable to provide meals requiring strict religious observance in the preparation.

8 Are all drinks free? Tea, coffee and drinking water are complimentary at all times. Wine is complimentary during meal times, and the tariff in the fully−stocked bar car details the price list for all other drinks. Is the water safe to drink? The water on all trains is not drinking water. Your attendants, who are on duty 24 hours a day, will provide you with fresh bottled water around the clock. There is also bottled water in the bathrooms for brushing your teeth. Miscellaneous: Are the guides English speaking? Yes, the local guides speak English as well as the on−board Tour Manager. If you have group who wish to have a guide in a language other than English, you need to ensure that this request is made at the time of booking and we will aim to provide one (charges may apply). Are there daily briefings on the places we pass through / visit? When you board the train you will find a brochure specific to your chosen itinerary detailing more about the journey and the places en route. The Tour Manager also organizes a program of briefings on the cities visited. Are all off train excursions included in the price? Yes. If however, you do not wish to take an off train excursion, you can either stay on board the train or make some private arrangement. There is no discount for those who choose not to take the off train excursion/s. If you choose to make your own private arrangements, you will need to ensure that you are back at the train by the departure time as the train will not be able to wait and must leave as per the schedule. How is the train powered? The trains are electric powered. However, the day journey from Darjeeling to Siliguri is hauled by steam. This is a local train, and the journey takes about 8 hours. Which hotels are utilized before and after the train portion of the tour? Please see the "Accommodation" tab for hotel details. All passengers are accommodated in the very best rooms available and this is not dependent on their cabin class. What clothing is recommended during the tour? We recommend smart casual clothing and suitable walking shoes for off−train excursions during the day. Comfortable attire in natural subdued colours (bright colours are not advised) which blend with the landscape is essential for all excursion to wildlife reserves. 1 . Is it possible to travel only a part of the distance, to be on the train for only say, 5 days? Thank you for your query. Unfortunately only full journey is allowed on the Viceroy of India. The only train with similar destinations with part journeys is Royal Palace on Wheels / Royal Rajasthan on Wheels.

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 India Desk : 1−877−GO−INDIA

USA: Princeton, NJ: 609−683−5018 New York, NY: 212−920−2543 Houston, TX: 832−446−2709

International: United Kingdom: 800−8456−201 Hong Kong: (852) 30518159 South Africa : (+27)11−46133299 Australia: 1800−156−671 New Zealand: 0800−442−510

By FAX: 1−609−683−9772

9 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: 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.

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