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DATE
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ITINERARY
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ACCOMMODATION
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PICTURES
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15th
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20:50 You'll depart on your scheduled flight to Delhi today.
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Overnight flight 9W121
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16th
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Today you arrive in Delhi, where you will stay over night. A half-day tour here includes highlights such as the exquisite Humayun's Tomb and the ancient Qutub Minar, a soaring tower of sandstone. Your tour continues with a drive along the ceremonial avenue, Raipath, past the imposing India Gate and Parliament House - both reminders of the city's colonial past.
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The Suryaa
Delhi Climate.
Delhi map
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from Ann
from Arthur
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17th
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A morning included sightseeing tour will introduce you to the 17th century walled city of Old Delhi. Delve into a maze of crowded narrow streets and thronging markets, see the spectacular exterior of the Red Fort and stroll (or in our case take a cycle rickshaw) through the fabled street bazaar of vibrant Chandni Chowk. Admire the impressive marble domes of Jama Masjid Mosque and visit Raj Ghat, the simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. Later you will drive to Agra for a two night stay.
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Trident Hotel Agra
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from Ann
from Arthur
These include the ones from Fatehpur Sikri on 19th
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18th
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Today you'll have an early start for one of the highlights of your holiday - an included dawn visit to the world-famous Taj Mahal. You will travel to the banks of the Yamuna River where this magnificent mausoleum built by the Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife is located. Nothing prepares you for the reality of this glorious building, especially as the sun rises and the light is reflecting on the marble in shades of rose and gold. Set in classical gardens with shimmering mirror pools, its white walls inlaid with semi-precious stones are truly breathtaking and you'll soon understand why 20,000 men took 20 years to complete the world's most extravagant and beautiful expression of one man's love of a woman. (Sadly it was so foggy the visit was rescheduled for the afternoon, but it did mean we didn't have to get up so early.)
A visit to the red sandstone Agra Fort where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son has also been included. Wander through the chambers and capture glimpses of the shimmering white Taj Mahal, framed by a perfect archway. You'll also see the white-marble Itmad ud Daulah tomb, the first monument in India built entirely from marble and also known as the 'Baby Taj'.
This evening we offer an optional performance of Mohabbat the Taj, a spectacular re-enactment of the life and love of Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Colourful costumes, enchanting songs, energetic dancing and an incredible set deliver the perfect end to a magical day (not available May-July).
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19th
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This morning you'll transfer to the station for the train journey to Ranthambore National Park. En route you'll visit the deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri, built by an emperor in 1569 to celebrate the birth of his son. On arrival at the station, join the throng of travellers and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Local vendors sell spicy samosas and small boys lug huge silver kettles of chai. Sit back and enjoy the constantly changing scenery and engaging company of fellow passengers, an Indian rail journey is always a memorable experience. (Sadly the train was about 5hr late and with 2.5hr journey it was thought better to complete the journey in 6hr by coach which was taking our luggage. "Well done" to our driver who did the trip much quicker even allowing for a comfort stop. Thanks to Karylin for the fruit to keep us going.)
You will stay at Ranthambore for two nights.
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Tiger Den Resort
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from Ann
from Arthur
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20th
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We have included both morning and afternoon safaris today so that you have plenty of time to experience Ranthambore, which is considered to be the best game reserve in India. Thick forest, lush vegetation and pretty waterfalls provide the perfect environment for over 300 species of birds. With the help of your Local Guide you may even spot the elusive tiger. Even if you don't, there are many other residents of the park for you to see including crocodile, hyena, jackal and maybe the rarer leopard too.
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21st
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This morning your journey continues by road to the famous 'Pink City' of Jaipur, where you will stay overnight. Sandstone buildings tinged with pink and ochre and set amongst barren hills will greet you as you arrive in the capital of Rajasthan. Get to know Jaipur on an included tour this afternoon. All the buildings here were to be painted pink by Maharaja's decree. Explore the commanding City Palace, still the official residence of the Maharaja and discover Mughal treasures in the museum. Linger at the elaborate facade of the Palace of the Winds, from where ladies of the court could watch unseen, and seek out colourful ceramics and textiles in the bustling markets of the old town.
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Holiday Inn
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from Ann
from Arthur
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22nd
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We also visited The Jantar Mantar of Jaipur observatory.
This morning you'll take a short drive to the marvellous Amber Fort, a 17th century stronghold that commands a hilltop setting high above the parched desert and surrounding valley. Step inside and visit the eerie Temple of Kali, the jewel-like Palace of Mirrors and experience the enchanting Hall of Pleasures.
Continue by road to the former royal retreat of Samode Bagh, where a unique experience awaits. Your tented accommodation for the night features carpets, air-conditioning and a marble bathroom with hot and cold running water! Spend the rest of the day relaxing with a cool drink in the beautiful gardens or take a dip in the pool. A barbecue dinner is included this evening, after which you can enjoy a performance of traditional dance.
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Samode Bagh Tents
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from Ann
from Arthur
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23rd
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Relax amidst the stunning surroundings of Samode Bagh before an included lunch. This afternoon you will continue by road to your hotel in Delhi-Gurgaon for an overnight stay. Gurgaon is a bustling satellite city of Delhi with great connections to the city.
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Holiday Inn Aero City
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PICTURES
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24th
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Today we lose many of the party who travel home. Just Joyce, Ann and Arthur continue with Karylin.
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24th
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Today you will transfer to New Delhi railway station to board the Shatabdi Express for Kalka. After a packed lunch you'll change to the narrow gauge train which will take you to Shimla - a highlight of your trip. The journey is quite spectacular as the railway climbs to over 6,000 feet. On arrival, check in to your hotel, where you will stay for three nights.
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Oberoi Cecil
Shimla Climate.
Shimla Map.
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from Ann
from Arthur
Railway Station
The town
View
View south
Church
BBC Indian Hill Railways 3 - The Kalka-Shimla Railway (2010)
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25th
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Enjoy a morning tour of Shimla today. Highlights include the Mall, Tara Devi Temple and the Vice Regal Lodge. The afternoon is free for you to spend at leisure.
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26th
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Enjoy a free day to relax and explore Shimla at your own pace. Alternatively, join our optional village tour.
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27th
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After breakfast you will travel to Chandigarh, where a brief tour has been arranged. After an included lunch you'll take a tour of the Rock Garden where you'll see unique works of art crafted from everyday items. You'll then board the Shatabdi Express back to Delhi, where you will stay overnight. Dinner will be served on board the train this evening.
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Holiday Inn Aero City
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from Ann
from Arthur
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28th
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13:30 Today you'll transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK. 17:40
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FLIGHT 9W122
24 Alexander Road
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Why did we go to India?
In 1989 I was lucky enough to go to India on business and while there visited the Taj Mahal. On my return home I promised to take Ann there one day.
2015 sees not only our Ruby wedding anniversary but also my 70th birthday and a notable but lesser one for Ann. With Red Forts in Delhi and Agra plus the Pink City of Jaipur this trip seem appropriate.
Whilst the actual dates are between May and August, India is rather hot then and it is also the monsoon season so we decided on the January tip
We were not disappointed! Wonderful trip; well guided; great company and many happy memories.
It only took 26 years but eventually I did keep my promiss. (Even if Ann did the booking.)
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It may not be a ruby, but a pink sapphire. Bought from the shop where HRH bought Diana's engagement ring.
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