India

Delhi

Delhi, the capital of India and one of the oldest cities of the world, is unlike any other city. With a history that goes back many centuries and empires, this lively city offers a powerful blend of cultures, cuisines and people.

From the maze of narrow lanes, old havelis and colourful bazaars of Old Delhi to the features of a modern city such as fantastic shopping malls, bustling markets, a metro system and fabulous eating places; the past and the present mix together in Delhi.

Centuries-old monuments are a part of the city’s daily life. One of the main attractions of Delhi, India Gate was built as a tribute to the fallen Indian soldiers of World War I. At night, India Gate is dramatically floodlit while the fountains nearby make a lovely display with coloured lights and a large expanse of lush green lawns.

Extremely impressive is the circular structure and magnificent dome of Parliament House, a spectacular piece of architecture designed by the famed architect Lutyens.

Worth including in your itinerary is a visit to the historical sites including the World Heritage Sites of Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Lotus Temple and Qutub Minar. Don’t miss out on a visit to Old Fort, which is surrounded by a moat. It’s also the venue for a spectacular sound and light show held every evening.

Agra

Agra, the ancient city on the banks of the River Yamuna, gained importance as the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1556 - 1658. It is on the Golden Triangle tourist circuit with Delhi and Jaipur and is famous for its Mughal architecture and for being home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal. This marvel of ivory white marble which encompasses incredible elegance and architectural perfection, was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in commemoration of his favourite wife, Empress Mumtaz Mahal.

Agra has many other famous archeological sites and is famous for its marble inlay work and its leather industry that manufactures shoe uppers for shoe companies around the world.

As you visit the many archeological wonders of Agra, you find out more about the history of the Moghul Empire. It has much more than the spellbinding Taj Mahal, as also located in Agra is the world’s first planned heritage site, Fatehpur Sikri – the city of the Mughals built during 1564 AD. Here you learn more about the life of royals at that time. Some important structures here are Diwan-I-Am, Diwan-I-Khas, the private living quarters, Jodhabai’s Palace, Birbal’s Palace, Panch Mahal, Salim Chishti’s Tomb, Jama Masjid, Buland Darwaza, and many more. The Agra Fort is another fascinating site to visit.

Mumbai

Mumbai, (Bombay until 1996), the commercial capital of India is a mega-city driven by power, wealth, glamour and fame. It’s also a city with strong historical links, British architecture, museums, beaches, places of worship, and a city stars where Bollywood stars reign. A city with a mix of traditional and modern, a waterfront city with a vibrant and cosmopolitan identity.

Here you will find Haji Ali Dargah, a Mosque and a Tomb located in the Mahim Bay overlooking the Arabian Sea. The Haji Ali Dargah was constructed in 1431 in memory of a wealthy Muslim merchant, Sayyed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, who renounced all his worldly possessions before making a pilgrimage to Mecca. The main hall has marble pillars enhanced with artistic mirror work with blue, green, yellow chips of glass arranged in kaleidoscopic patterns intermixed with Arabic patterns, which spell the 99 names of Allah.

Overlooking Mumbai Harbour is the huge structure, Gateway of India. This was constructed in 1924. It was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Bombay and faces the majestic Hotel Taj Mahal. It is also the departing point for ferries going to Elephanta Island. This Island is well-known for the cave temple sculpted out of rocks and is a UNESCO designated World Heritage Site.

Goa

Goa is the beach capital of India. Situated on the west coast of India, it is one of the most charming states. Formerly a Portuguese colony, it has a variety of attractions including palm fringed beaches, miles of golden sands, lush green country-side, a collage of cultural heritage, magnificent churches, temples, forts and monuments and a unique combination of the east and west. Its tropical climate, makes this spot a tourist destination for all seasons. A treasure trove of culture, music, dances and art forms that can be enjoyed during local festivals and celebrations. Animal lovers can visit the State’s wildlife sanctuaries.

Situated in Old Goa, is the Basilica of Bom Jesus, built in 1605 AD. The Basilica is home to the tomb and mortal remains of St Francis Xavier and is a monument typical of the architecture introduced by the Jesuits. It is the only church in Old Goa that is not plastered on the outside. Its design is simple, but the floor is laid with the finest marble and inlaid with precious stones. The main altar contains a huge statue of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, and below it, a small image of Bom Jesus (Child Jesus). The chapel has carved and gilded columns and wood-carved floral decorations. The Basilica also contains a modern art gallery with paintings depicting various Biblical scenes.

Kerala

Located on the border of Kerala is Wayanad, a town famous for wildlife and its spice plantations, offering great scenic beauty along with the experience of seeing wildlife. October till May are the best months to visit.

Kairali Ayurvedic Group's signature retreat 'The Ayurvedic Healing Village' is situated just a few kilometres from the world's biggest mountain pass between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Amidst mountains, forests, fertile valley and rivers are the 30 premium villas of the wellness retreat, which are surrounded by the fragrance of Pala trees. The Ayurvedic Healing Village also boasts of Red Oxide flooring, a rare Valambari Conch shell and a gentle stream flowing around every villa.

The Athirapally and Vazhachal waterfalls have attracted people for ages with their lush greenery and stunning views. At the Athirapally Waterfalls, you can watch the water crashing into the Chalakudy River from 80 ft high. A cool breeze takes over the terrain and people are left enchanted at this natural wonder.

While in Kerala, be sure to visit the Wayanad Tea Estate, Guruvayoor Temple, the Elephant Sanctuary and Thekkady houseboat.

Jaipur

Jaipur, capital of Rajasthan is known to all as the Pink City. The past comes alive in the magnificent forts and palaces, wide avenues and spacious gardens, where the maharajas once lived. Famous for Rajasthan jewellery, fabric and shoes, the bustling bazaars are a treasure-trove for the shoppers. One of the most visited tourist destinations in India, Jaipur is renowned for its combination of a rich ancient history with a bustling modern city.

About 11 kms from Jaipur, you find Amber (pronounced Amer). This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was the bastion of the Kachwahas of Amber. The palace, is a beautiful mixture of Hindu and Mughal styles. Made entirely of red sandstone and white marble, visitors are left spellbound by the magnificence of the palace that includes carvings, precious stones and mirrors.

On a hilltop, 15 kms from Jaipur, is Jaigarh Fort, built by Sawai Jai Singh II. It retains most of its imposing citadel appearance. Visitors to the Fort can see the world’s largest cannon – Jaiban located here.

Another attraction is The City Palace, which served as a home for the ruling royalty. The balconies, cupolas and towers of the palace have an amazing view of Pichola Lake. Four major and several minor palaces form the magnificent City Palace. Each palace is unique with mirrored tiles, paintings, glass work and ornamental tiles reflecting the opulence of the era.

Bengalore

The capital of Karnataka State, Bengaluru, also known as Bengalore and the 'City of Gardens', is one of the most attractive cities with beautiful parks, avenues and impressive buildings and is the centre of arts and culture. With its booming economy and racy lifestyle, it has transformed from being a sleepy Garden City into one of India's fastest growing, cosmopolitan cities. It is a city of contrasts, also referred to as: India's Silicon Valley, Pub City, Shopper's Paradise, Garden City, Air-conditioned City, Gourmet's Delight, Pensioners Paradise, IT and BT City. Surrounded by weekend getaways, Bengaluru makes an ideal spot for visitors who want to travel to the many coastal towns of South India.

Of historical interest is the Mysore Palace, a combination of Hindu and Saracenic features. The elevation is composed of intricately detailed and variegated elements, with marble architraves, stained glass pavilion, durbar halls, panels, fine carvings of birds, foliage, animals in Hoysala style. While in Bengaluru visit the Bandipur National Park, one of the premier tiger reserves in the country along with the adjoining Nagarhole National Park. Experience the elephant safari. You might spot a bison or a crocodile on the banks of the River Kabini. The Sanctuary is home to the Spotted Deer, the Sambar Deer, Pythons, Sloth Bears, Porcupines, Monkeys and over 230 species of birds.