Palace Tours − Luxury Tours Collection The Thrill in The Mangrove Thrill in Sundarbans

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 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!

ITINERARY

This tour can be scheduled to accommodate your chosen departure date. A 3−night tour is also available; please inquire for details. • Day 1 − to Sundarbans

Arrive in Kolkata early this morning and immediately transfer to the Department of Forest to obtain permits for Sunderbans National Park*. Next, drive through the beautiful countryside and rural bazaar and arrive at Sonakhali jetty to board the motorized boat. After a briefing and interpretation by our local guide cum naturalist over tea/coffee/welcome drink, cruise through the Hogol, Gomor, Durgaduani and Gumdi rivers to the Sudhanyakhali watch tower, winding your way through hidden creeks and canals. Experience the Island Cruise, arrive at Bali Island and check in into Sunderban Jungle Camp. This evening you might enjoy the infotainment by the local villagers. Dinner and overnight are at the Camp. *Note: Due to new government regulations, the permits to enter Sunderbans National Park must be obtained in person and with original passports only. The permitting process may take 2−3 hours and any delay might affect the remainder of the day's itinerary. We appreciate your patience during this process.

• Day 2 − Adventures in Sundarbans After breakfast at the Camp, experience a village walk followed by an adventure cruise in a manually−oared country boat. Cruise to Dobanki to enjoy a canopy walk in the tower before transferring back to the Camp for lunch. Later this afternoon, depart Sundarbans for Kolkata, transfer to your hotel and stay overnight.

• Day 3 − Farewell, Kolkata The day is yours at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your departure flight home or to your next exciting destination.

DESTINATION INFORMATION

• Calcutta / Kolkata

Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital of the Indian state of and was capital of British 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 ), 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

1 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.

2 • Sundarbans National Park

The Sundarbans are part of the world's largest delta formed by the rivers Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghna which is spread over 10,000 sq kms and is home for many exquisite animals and birds. The area is a declared national park. Tigers in Sundarbans are known to be seen at a distance of 10 kms, perhaps while hunting fish or stealing honey from the beehives. Though Sundarban tigers are described as man−eaters, specialists say they rarely attack human beings. You can also see estuarine crocodiles and shy jungle cats at the Park. The reptiles found in the forest includes the , Rock Python and Water Monitor. The Fleming Red Flowers of Genwa and the crab−like red flower of Khalsi add to the dazzling display of nature.

Price Chart

All prices quoted in U.S. Dollars ($) per person 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:

• 02 Nights accommodation (best−available) on twin−sharing basis as per the itinerary • All meals daily (breakfast, lunch, dinner) except Kolkata, where only breakfast is included • Transport by exclusive air−conditioned luxury vehicles (where available) • Motorized boat charges as per the itinerary • All sightseeing as per the itinerary with local English−speaking guide • Activities as included in the itinerary except optional evening entertainment • All airport transfers at all places with baggage handling • All monument entrance fees, parking, tolls, fuel charges, porterage and taxes

Your tour cost does NOT include:

• Beverages, alcohol, soft drinks, telephone calls, laundry, souvenirs, gratuities or other items of a personal nature • Travel insurance, Mediclaim or visa fees • Any compulsory holiday dinners and celebrations required by the hotels • Lunches and dinners in Kolkata • Any domestic or international airfare • Any airport departure taxes • Any expenses not specifically mentioned as included

HOTELS AND RESORTS

• ITC Hotel Sonar Bangla Sheraton &Towers , Calcutta / Kolkata (5 −Star)

1, Haldane Avenue

Surrounded by 16 acres of luscious greenery with views of the water, ITC Hotel Sonar Bangla is an oasis in the middle of the country's intellectual capital. Come here to relax. Spend a day in the spa with a friend and get pampered. Enjoy a game of tennis with the family or some chip−and−putt golf with colleagues. If you do need to work while you're here the business center/services are ready to help. Relax in 238 guest rooms, filled with the things you'd like mostthe internet for contacting home, 24−hour room service for staying in, and butler service for everything else. Variety has always been the key to truly enjoying life and that's why we're sure you'll love the numerous dining options that will tantalize your senses. Warm and delicious, the food ranges from Indian to Asian. The hotel features everything from pub food to fine dining and we're sure there will be something here that'll appeal to every member of your party. Come entice your palate!

Facilities 24−Hour Room Service " Fitness and Spa Facilities/Services " Outdoor Pool " Beauty Salon " Business Center " Laundry

3 Service " Internet Service Provided in Business Center (Charge) " Dry Cleaning Service " Secretarial Service " Babysitting Service " Currency Exchange " Concierge Service " Internet Service Provided in All Meeting/Event Facilities (Charge) " Outdoor Tennis Courts " Smoke Detectors " Sprinklers " Safe Deposit Boxes " Free Parking Facilities " Handicap Accessible Facilities " Florist " In−room Amenities: Internet Service Provided in Guest Rooms by Request (Charge) " Executive Club Level Room " Towers Level Room " Suites Available " Mini Bar " 24−Hour Room Service " Refrigerator " Butler Service " Coffee Maker " Cable Channels " Iron/Ironing Board " Non−Smoking Room " Hairdryer " Work Desk " V.I.P. Room " Handicap Accessible Room " Air−Conditioned Room " In−Room Safe.

• The Oberoi Grand , Calcutta / Kolkata (5 −Star)

15, Jawaharlal Nehru Road The Oberoi Grand's neo−classical façade and grand pillared entrance mark a successful fusion of classical and traditional Indian style. The hotel takes pride in its 204 guest rooms and suites, variety of specialty restaurants and bars, recreation, business centre, and conference facilities. All rooms and suites convey a great sense of space, elegance and gracious living. The Executive Suites look out over the palm−fringed courtyard and pool. They feature teak floor, a king sized four poster bed, separate sitting room, walkin closet, two balconies, CD player and a fax machine.

Facilities " Broadband internet access " Business centre open 24 hours " Concierge " Beauty salon " Laundry and valet service " Doctor on call " Outdoor Swimming pool " Steam and Sauna " Spa " Fitness Centre

SUGGESTED EXTENSION TOURS

The City of Joy Kolkata Experience Kolkata is a fascinating blend of all things Indian, rich in culture, history, art, education, recreation and legend. A modern city, Kolkata is home to many scholars, politicians and Nobel laureates and was the capital of British India until 1912. It is also quite firmly rooted in the traditions of West Bengal, for it is here that you find fantastic cathedrals side by side with sacred temples and terrific structures like bridges and palaces near quaint flower markets and potters studios. Get a real taste and local perspective of this remarkable town as you take in the City of Joy Kolkata Experience.

Corbett National Park Travel to the Jim Corbett National Park which lies admidst Sal forests in the Kumaon region in the foothills of the Himalayas. On this 3−night extension option from Delhi, you have the exciting opportunity to catch a glimpse of the majestic tiger roaming this beautiful landscape. On your open−Jeep safaris through the Park, you may also see the wild elephant, leopard, gharial, langur, rhesus , peacock and several types of deer including cheetal, sambar, hog deer and barking deer, so keep your binoculars up and your eyes and ears open!

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 required. Also, visas must be obtained prior to arrival in India. If you are a US citizen, please follow this link for details on obtaining an Indian Visa: https://www.indian−visa.com/. If you are not a US citizen, 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. What is the best time of year to visit ? The best time of year to visit is September to March. The Sundarbans 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. It can get quite cold in Sikkim and (Winter 0−12°C and Summer 10−25°C) and comfortable to warm in Kolkata (Winter 10−20°C and Summer 30−40°C).

What kinds of clothing are recommended? During the winter season for tours in Bengal (December, January and February) light woolens are required during the

4 night. For the rest of the year, casual cotton outfits would be the most comfortable. For colder regions around Darjeeling and Sikkim, we recommend bringing heavy woolens as well. Try to wear outfits in neutral colors if you are undertaking a trip which includes visits to Sundarbans or Jaldapara, so as not to startle the animals. Fully covered shoes with good traction are advisable.

What other items should I bring? Remember to carry sunscreen, a hat, small flashlight, binoculars, mosquito repellent, and don't forget your camera and film!

What health precautions should I take while traveling in East India? Drink only purified water or bottled water, which is provided complimentary for your convenience. Also do not forget to carry your personal medicines if you are on medication. 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 Indian rupee. 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.

If I have a specific diet restriction or preference, will you be able to accommodate my request? All efforts are made to accommodate reasonable diet preferences. We communicate the requests to the hotels and restaurants where you would be eating and your request should generally be honored and ready. However, it is always better to re−coordinate the requirements with our escort / attendant who will be able to ensure the establishments know about your requirements. We also request you to re−inform the establishment about your requirement at the time you go for meals to avoid any confusion or misunderstanding.

Can you provide a wheelchair if I need assistance on the sightseeing tours? Wheelchairs and attendants are available but the arrangements must be made well in advance. Please do let us know and we will be happy to arrange for this. If there is an additional charge, it will be communicated to you depending on your exact requirements. Please be aware that sightseeing vehicles and many monuments are not fully wheelchair accessible. Therefore, it will be beneficial if the party can stand and walk at least a few steps with assistance for entering/exiting vehicles and maneuvering within certain monuments.

What kinds of hotels are used? We use the best properties available in each location which give you good value, the best security and hygiene conditions, and excellent service. Please note that the tourism infrastructure in several of the less developed cities such as Jaldapara is not very advanced and therefore the accommodation in these cities is standard in nature. Please see the "accommodation" tab for hotel details and amenities. What is the recommended gratuity? Gratuities are solely at your discretion, and should reflect your enjoyment of the journey and your satisfaction with the quality of service provided. As a general guideline, per day, a tip of $10 for the driver and $5−$10 for the guide is appropriate.

Palace Tours Contact Information

IndiaTours.com is a brand of Palace Tours, a leader in tours to India, Spain and South Africa.

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.indiatours.com or www.palacetours.com

By e−mail: [email protected]

By phone: 1−800−724−5120 India Desk : 1−877−GO−INDIA (877−464−6342)

USA: Princeton, NJ: 609−683−5018 New York, NY: 212−920−2543

5 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

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 office. Details will be provided in your travel vouchers, which are issued upon full payment.

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