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Delhi, Varanasi, Agra, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur
Consider our
post trip to Bhutan,
September 26 - 30, 2014,
or our pre trip to Nepal, September 13 - 15, 2014!
India ... a country which will enchant you with her beauty and diversity, enrich you with her culture, stun you with her modernity, embrace you with her warmth, and overwhelm you with her hospitality...
Overload your senses – Test your limits – Restructure your basic assumptions. This tour will touch your soul. Our 12-day India adventure of discovery takes you on a journey of more than just a destination, but perhaps even of yourself. Long after you leave you will be gently haunted by memories of a place, a person, even a sound, or the smells of tea, jasmine blossoms, and insense. This is not your average tour of India: this is Zoom India!
This trip is led by Zoom Vacations' dedicated Indian concierge.
India's beauty and diversity will enrich you with her culture, stun you with her modernity, embrace you with her warmth, and overwhelm you with her hospitality...
Our Zoom Vacation combines the ultimate luxury with seamless exploration of one of the world's most fascinating countries. You will stay in the absolute best hotels and palaces in Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur), including the legendary Lake Palace, among others.
Of course one of your highlights will be visiting the Taj Mahal. For centuries, the Taj Mahal has inspired poets, painters and musicians to try and capture its elusive magic in word, color and song. Since the 17th century, travelers have crossed continents to come and see this ultimate memorial to love; few have been unmoved by its incomparable beauty.
Since all the guestrooms at our ultra-luxury 5 star hotel in Agra enjoy unparalleled views of the Taj Mahal, we give the Taj ample time to leave its effect on you.
Zoom Vacations Was featured in an International Herald Tribune article about gay travel to India.
• Accommodations at the finest 5 star hotels and palaces in India
• Services of a Zoom Concierge throughout your trip.
• Services of an accompanying English speaking local Indian tour guide for the entire duration of the itinerary.
• Private arrival and departure airport transfers.
• Buffet breakfast daily and lunch almost daily in exclusive forts, palaces and country settings.
• Cocktail reception and welcome dinner in Delhi in a modern setting
• Evening tour of Varanasi by rickshaw followed by a cruise on the Ganges River.
• Professionally guided tour of the Sarnath's temples and Archeological Museum of Buddhist art treasures in Varanasi, including entrance fees.
• Professionally guided tour of the 11th Century Qutab Minar Tower in Delhi.
• Professionally guided tour of Humayun's Tomb, India Gate, Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, and other sites of interest in Delhi, including entrance fees.
• Rickshaw ride through the streets and markets of Delhi.
• Professionally guided tour of the Mahatma Ghandi Memorial in Delhi.
• Professionally guided tour of the 16th Century abandoned city near Delhi, including entrance fees.
• Train journey from Delhi to Agra.
• Professionally guided tour of the magnificent Red Fort in Agra, including entrance fees.
• Professionally guided tour of the Taj Mahal in Agra, including entrance fees.
• Professionally guided tour of Jaipur, known as the "Pink City", including a rickshaw visit to a bird sanctuary showcasing an astonishing range of flora and fauna.
• Unique village visit and walking tour near Jaipur.
• Private elephant safari in a beautiful country setting followed by brunch in Jaipur.
• Visit to the Amber Fort and Professionally guided tour of the Maharajah's City Palace in Jaipur, including entrance fees. Elephant ride is based on availability.
• Professionally guided tour of the Jodhpur including entrance fees to the incredible sites in the Blue City.
• Visit the magnificent Mehrangarh fort which dominates the town ringed with its massive protective walls.
• Tour the ancient trading town of Osian.
• Tour smaller villages near Jodhpur by camel
• Enjoy a sensational BBQ dinner in a camel camp in the dessert near Jodhpur, while enjoying local folk entertainment.
• Professionally guided tour of Udaipur, known as the Venice of the East.
• Private decorated boat cruise on Udaipur's stunning Lake Pichola with views of old walled city, palaces and ancient temples.
• Professionally guided tour of the City Palace and a private viewing of its Crystal Gallery (the largest in the world) in Udaipur, including entrance fees.
• Professionally guided tour of the 11th Century ruins and the a 15th Century complex of 108 temples near Udaipur.
• Farewell cocktails and evening event in Udaipur in a regal setting.
• Professionally Guided shopping excursions. Find incredible rugs, beautiful textiles, hand-carved marble items, and more.
• Much, much more! Contact us for more information
Pre-Trip to Nepal
September 13 - 15, 2014
Read more!
Day 1 - Monday, September 15, 2014
Arrive in Delhi, India
Individual arrivals in Delhi. At Delhi airport you will be met by Zoom Vacations representative who will give escort you to your hotel, The Oberoi New Delhi.
 Located in New Delhi, India's capital city, The Oberoi, New Delhi reflects the city's spirit in a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary sophistication. Located close to the city center near business, commercial and shopping districts, the luxury hotel overlooks Delhi's prestigious Golf Club on one side and the heritage site of Humayun's Tomb on the other. Exquisite interiors, impeccable service and fine cuisine combine to make this the Capital's most graceful and elegant hotel.
Day
at leisure for independent activities / enjoy hotel facilities.
Evening:
Tonight we head out on the town for welcome dinner at one of the best retaurants in the city.
Accommodations: The Oberoi New Delhi, 5 Stars
Meals Included: Welcome Dinner
Day 2 - Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Delhi
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in hotel
Morning:
 Today's Delhi exploration includes the 11th century Qutab Minar Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Qutub-ud-din Aibek of the Slave Dynasty, who took possession of Delhi in 1206. It is a red sandstone tower, standing tall at a height of 72.5 meters and is covered with intricate carvings and verses from the holy Qur'an. National Museum, having the collection of 5000 year old relics of the Indus valley civilization, varied exotic paintings, old manuscripts and mural paintings from Buddhist shrines in Central Asia. Lunch at a stylish restaurant set in a historic mansion.
Afternoon:
Other attractions include The India Gate, a memorial raised in honor of the Indian soldiers martyred during the Afghan war. We will drive past the grand government buildings, the President's House and Parliament House all dating back to the time of British Raj.  The grand Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, epitomises 10,000 years of Indian culture in all its breathtaking grandeur, beauty, wisdom and bliss. It brilliantly showcases the essence of India's ancient architecture, traditions and timeless spiritual messages. The Akshardham experience is an enlightening journey through India's glorious art, values and contributions for the progress, happiness and harmony of mankind.
Accommodations: The Oberoi New Delhi Hotel, Delhi, 5 Stars
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast and Lunch
Day 3 - Wednesday, September 17, 2014
Fly from Delhi to Varanasi
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in hotel
Morning:
 Morning flight takes us to the oldest living city in the world, Varanasi – also said to be the India's most sacred city situated on the western bank of the holy river Ganga. Varanasi cannot easily be described, only experienced.
Evening:
Our evening rickshaw (Tricycle with driver) ride passing through the busy streets and bazaars of Varanasi takes us to the holy river Ganges where we cruise to witness the ceremonies amidst hundreds of lighted candles and flower offerings. Evening introduction to Astrology by expert astrologer who will also read our palms, if we so desire. This evening you will see things you have never seen before.
Accommodations: TAJ Ganges Gateway Hotel, Varanasi, 5 Stars
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast
Day 4 - Thursday, September 18, 2014
Fly from Varanasi to Delhi
Quick Breakfast in hotel
Morning:
 We rise before dawn and step gingerly onto a rustic boat as the wizened boatman coasts off. We wait, still, for the daily miracle to unfold. Just then, as if having waited for the audience to settle reverently in their assigned places, the Sun God appears triumphantly over the horizon. The sound of conches and temple bells rent the delicate pink fabric of dawn. The formerly hushed murmuring of ancient Sanskrit Shlokas, now rises, in one voice, to a crescendo of unparalleled piety and joy. We tour Sarnath, an important pilgrimage center for Buddhists. This is where the Buddha preached his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. Sarnath's temples and Archaeological Museum are full of Buddhist art treasures.
Afternoon:
Afternoon flight to the capital and the third largest city of India, Delhi, a fusion of the ancient and the modern.
Accommodations: The Oberoi New Delhi Hotel, Delhi, 5 Stars
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast
Day 5 - Fiday, September 19, 2014
Delhi to Agra by Train
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in hotel
Morning:
 Our journey to the city of Taj, Agra takes us through the beautiful countryside. Upon arrival, visit the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and surely the most extravagant expression of love ever created.
Afternoon:
Afternoon tour of imposing Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this powerful fortress of red sandstone encompasses, within its 2.5-km-long enclosure walls, the imperial city of the Mughal rulers. It comprises many fairy-tale palaces, such as the Jahangir Palace and the Khas Mahal, built by Shah Jahan; audience halls, such as the Diwan-i-Khas; and two very beautiful mosques.
Evening:
This evening, watch a beautiful traditional dance performance at the Oberoi Amarvilas.
Accommodations: The Oberoi Amarvilas Hotel, Agra, 5 Stars
The luxurious and palatial The Oberoi Amarvilas Hotel offers breathtaking views of this stunning monument.
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast
Day 6 - Saturday, September 20, 2014
Agra to Jaipur via air conditioned vehicle
Sunrise:
 If you are like most Zoom travelers, you will not be able to get enough of the Taj Mahal, and nothing compares to seeing it at sunrise. 20,000 men laboured for over 17 years to build this memorial to Shah Jahan's beloved wife. It's a wealth of white marble and semi-precious stones, which sparkle to new life with the rising sun.
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in hotel
Late Morning:
Passing through the images of rural India, a leisurely drive takes us to the royal city of Jaipur, also known as 'The Pink City' due to the predominant color of its buildings. Throbbing, vibrant capital city of the colorful state of Rajasthan where the regal ambience of yesteryear is still felt throughout the city's numerous carved arches and once-bejewelled fortress walls.
Enroute visit to Keoladeo Ghana bird sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is a home to an astonishing range of flora and fauna. We will see an incredible variety of birds during the rickshaw (tricycle) ride into the bird Park.
 Enroute we visit Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which has been described as "the world's most perfectly preserved ghost town". Built by Akbar in the late 16th century, it was abandoned after only 14 years, and the elegant buildings of this superb walled city remain intact to this day.
Lunch is enjoyed in the special ambiance of a royal palace.
Afternoon:
Have a unique experience of a Walking Tour in a Village, catch a peek at the rustic ways of life in the villages of India. Explore a lifestyle that has been left largely unblemished by the complexities of modern civilization. See the sights of rural India where life still continues at the pace with which it has done for thousands of years. ...The ancient Persian wheel drawing water from river channels and farmers hard at work with bullock drawn hoes... in the backdrop of the golden fields of mustard... are images that are now largely extinct from all the other parts of the world.
Accommodations: The Incomparable Rambagh Palace Hotel, Jaipur, 5 Stars.
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast and Lunch
Day 7 - Sunday, September 21, 2014
Jaipur
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in hotel
Morning:
 Day starts with a visit to the dramatic hilltop fortress at Amber – ascend the imposing fort on a decorated painted elephant. We wander among glittering inlays and the Hall of Mirrors. On the way back we stop to view the elegant Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds. This elaborate building, now little more than a facade, is encrusted with delicate screens and carved balconies from which the royal ladies, confined to their quarters, could sneak views of the outside world.
Lunch is served al fresco in the beautiful country setting of the Aravali Forest.
Afternoon:
Our afternoon visit includes the Maharajah's City Palace, now partly a museum displaying a unique fusion of Mughal and Hindu architecture, and houses a rare collection of paintings, Rajput armoury and costumes. Explore the city on our own and indulge in shopping for gemstones, silver jewellery, paintings, blue pottery and hand printed textiles or which Jaipur is renowned.
Accommodations: The Incomparable Rambagh Palace Hotel, Jaipur, 5 Stars.
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast and Lunch
Day 8 - Monday, September 22, 2014
Drive from Jaipur to Jodhpur in air conditioned vehicle
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in hotel
Jodhpur
 also called the 'Blue City' was once the capital of the former princely state of Marwar. It was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha and is now the second largest city of Rajasthan. Flanked on its western side by the Mehrangarh Fort and on the eastern side by the stately sandstone Palace of Umaid Bhawan, the monuments temples and gardens of Jodhpur depict a multi-faceted grandeur. It is still a marvelously medieval city. While the graceful palaces, forts and temples bring alive the historic grandeur, exquisite handicrafts, folk dances, music and the brightly attired people lend a romantic aura to the city.
Arrive at Jodhpur and check-in at Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel.
 Perched high above the desert capital of Jodhpur, Umaid Bhawan Palace is the last of the great palaces of India and one of the largest residences in the world, set amidst 26 acres of lush gardens.
Designed by renowned Edwardian architect Henry Lanchester, the palace is a blend of eastern and western architectural influences. Its majestic 105-foot high cupola is influenced by the Renaissance, while the towers draw inspiration from Rajput tradition. The lavish interiors with gilt furniture and elegant artwork follow the Art Deco style, complemented by the exotic murals of the self-exiled Polish artist Stefan Norblin.
Afternoon:
Rest of the day will be at leisure to enjoy the Palace, Spa activities etc.
Evening:
In the evening enjoy a heritage walk of the Palace and its museum.
Accommodations: Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel, Jodhpur, 5 Stars.
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast
Day 9 - Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Jodhpur
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in hotel
Morning
 This morning enjoy an in depth tour of Jodhpur city. Visit the magnificent Mehrangarh fort which dominates the town ringed with its massive protective walls. There are seven gates that lead into the fort. Inside the fort is a series of courtyards and palaces. Continue your tour to Jaswant Thada, located a short distance from the fort, just off the fort road, which is a white marble memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.
Afternoon:
Drive to Osian covering a distance of 65kms in approximately 1˝ hours.
 Osian was an ancient town in the Thar Desert. It was a great trading center between the 8th and 12th centuries when it was dominated by the Jains. Osian has a wealth of lavish and exquisitely sculptured temples, most of which have withstood the ravages of time. Osian is a great location for camel safaris, sunset dune cocktails, photography, etc.
Mount camels and head off for a short ride into the dunes and surrounding villages. Later enjoy sundowners at the dunes. After sunset return to the camel camp and enjoy the evening with folk entertainment followed by BBQ dinner.
Evening:
After dinner drive back to Umaid Bhawan Palace.
Accommodations: Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel, Jodhpur, 5 Stars.
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast & Dinner
Day 10 - Wednesday, September 24, 2014
Drive from Jodhpur to Udaipur in air-conditioned vehicle
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in hotel
Udaipur
 Udaipur combines real beauty with a picturesque association of a great and glorious past. It stands in a valley, amidst green hills on the banks of the wide, steel blue Lake Pichola. On little islands in the lake, from the water's edge, raise marble palaces of pure white that glisten like fairy castles. Crowning the ridge in which the city clusters, along the shore of the lake is the palace of the Maharana. Possibly no city in Rajasthan is quite as romantic as Udaipur and is replete with fantastic hill top fortresses, exotic fairy tale palaces and gripping legends of medieval chivalry and heroism. Udaipur rivals any of the world's famous creations of the Mughals with the Rajput love of the whimsical and it's superbly crafted elegance.
En-route visit Ranakpur temples after lunch at a local restaurant.
 Ranakpur boasts some of the most exquisite Jain temples in the country famous for their intricate friezes and sculptures. Nestled on the banks of the river Maghai and sequestered by mountains, Ranakpur's beauty is accentuated by its seclusion. Erected on a raised platform, it is surrounded by 66 subsidiary shrines. It has 1444 beautifully carved pillars, of which no two are alike.
Evening:
Arrive at Udaipur and check-in at Taj Lake Palace Hotel.
The Taj Lake Palace, located in the middle of Lake Pichola is a dream of white marble and mosaic glistening in the moonlight. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Aravalli Mountains on one side of the lake, and lofty palaces on the other, the Taj Lake Palace spreads across a four-acre island – an almost surreal vision in marble.
Rest of the evening at leisure.
Accommodations: The Taj Lake Palace Hotel, Udaipur, 5 Stars
The luxurious and palatial Taj Lake Palace Hotel, offering an experience created exclusively for those who know there is nothing like too much luxury.
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast
Day 11 - Thursday, September 25, 2014
Udaipur
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in hotel
Morning:
 Let the glorious sunrise dazzle us at breakfast. Wander through the opulent City Palace grounds and the museum, which are the testament to the valour and chivalry of the Mewar rulers. Private tour of Crystal Gallery - probably the largest single private collection of crystal anywhere in the world. Visit Saheliyon ki Bari (the gardens the maids-of-honor), the Jagdish temple on the shores of Lake Pichola.
Today's lunch setting is in a luxuriously restored 18th century fort palace nestled in the Aravali Hills.
Afternoon:
Drive to Eklingji and Nagda Temple. Eklingji is believed to be the ruling deity of the once princely state of Mewar. The beautiful sculpted temple complex includes 108 religious structures dating back to the 15th century. We continue to the 11th century ruins of Magda.
Evening:
This evening enjoy a farewell cocktail reception and dinner in a regal setting.
Accommodations: The Taj Lake Palace Hotel, Udaipur, 5 Stars
The luxurious and palatial Taj Lake Palace Hotel, offering an experience created exclusively for those who know there is nothing like too much luxury.
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast, Lunch, and Farewell Dinner
Day 12 - Friday, September 26, 2014
Depart for home or onward to our Bhutan extension
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in hotel
Morning:
Morning at leisure. Departure for those going onto the Bhutan extension.
Afternoon:
Flight to Delhi. Transfer to the airport and Board your homebound flight or connect to your onward destination. Most international flights depart between 2:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m.
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast
Post-Trip to Bhutan
September 26 - 30, 2014
Read more!
Zoom Vacations uses only India's Finest 5+ Star Accommodations including the Lake Palace and Amarvilas. Each hotel has been selected based on the following 5 criteria:
• Quality (only 5 star or better)
• Location
• Uniqueness
• Service
• Attention to detail
Without exception, our hotel selections in India are unlike any in the world. It is fun simply watching guests walk into each of these hotels, as jaw-dropping and photo-taking immediately ensues.
Delhi
The Oberoi New Delhi Hotel, Delhi *****
 3 nights
Located in New Delhi, India's capital city, The Oberoi New Delhi reflects the city's spirit in a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary sophistication. Located close to the city center near business, commercial and shopping districts, the luxury hotel overlooks Delhi's prestigious Golf Club on one side and the heritage site of Humayun's Tomb on the other. Exquisite interiors, impeccable service and fine cuisine combine to make this the Capital's most graceful and elegant hotel. The award winning hotel is ideal to explore the cultural wonders of Delhi.
Varanasi
TAJ Ganges Gateway Hotel, Varanasi *****
 1 night
The Taj Ganges Gateway Hotel is set amidst 40 acres of lush green gardens, Taj Ganges is the veritable haven of peace and tranquility in this ancient temple city. The hotel is constructed in the holy Swastik shape (The Swastika is an ancient symbol which re-presents good fortune and blessing). Taj Ganges offers recently renovated & refurbished world-class contemporary rooms & suites with choice of views ranging from the lush green gardens or the swimming pool.
Agra
The Oberoi Amarvilas Hotel, Agra *****
 2 nights
The Oberoi Amarvilas is located 600 meters from the Taj Mahal and all rooms, suites, lobby, bar and lounge offer breathtaking views of the monument. Built in a style inspired by Moorish and Mughal architecture, the resort is an incredible display of terraced lawns, fountains, reflection pools and pavilions with rich interiors that take you back to an era of Emperors and Princes. An interlude at The Oberoi Amarvilas is truly unforgettable. Allow yourself to be swept away by Taj Mahal's romance at dusk. Let the nights be filled with the magic of the Taj by moonlight.
Jaipur
Rambagh Palace Hotel, Jaipur *****
 2 nights
In the finest tradition of Rajput hospitality, the The Incomparable Rambagh Palace Hotel offers its guests a taste of royal living – a luxury and extravagance that was once the sole preserve of kings. Its elegantly appointed rooms, marbled corridors and majestic gardens echo with history, and every corner has a story to tell.
It is no wonder why Rambagn Palace was voted best hotel in the world by the readers of Conde Nast.
Jodhpur
The Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel, Jodhpur *****
 2 nights
Perched high above the desert capital of Jodhpur, Umaid Bhawan Palace is the last of the great palaces of India and one of the largest residences in the world, set amidst 26 acres of lush gardens.
Designed by renowned Edwardian architect Henry Lanchester, the palace is a blend of eastern and western architectural influences. Its majestic 105-foot high cupola is influenced by the Renaissance, while the towers draw inspiration from Rajput tradition. The lavish interiors with gilt furniture and elegant artwork follow the Art Deco style, complemented by the exotic murals of the self-exiled Polish artist Stefan Norblin.
Udaipur
The Taj Lake Palace Hotel, Udaipur *****
 2 nights
The Taj Lake Palace, located in the middle of Lake Pichola is a dream of white marble and mosaic glistening in the moonlight. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Aravalli Mountains on one side of the lake, and lofty palaces on the other, the Taj Lake Palace spreads across a four-acre island – an almost surreal vision in marble. The Royal Butlers, descendents of the original palace retainers, look after all contemporary comforts and ensure that all guests are treated like Royalty.
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