Because I’ve always wanted to...

- India on Sabbatical, Laterally -

Because I’ve always wanted to...

A. Calcutta B. Bagdogra & Darjeeling C. Amritsar D. Delhi E. Agra F. Bhainsrorgharh G. Jodhpur H. Nimaj I. Nagaur J. Mubai K. Mangalore L. Wayanad M. Cochin & Alleppey

Flights…

Train Details...

Date Airline &

Flight Number

From Departs To Arrives

Day 1 London

Heathrow

Dubai

Day 1 Dubai Calcutta

Day 3 Calcutta Bagdogra

Day 7 Bagdogra Delhi

Day 7 Delhi Amritsar

Day 9 Amritsar Delhi

Day 24 Jodhpur Mumbai

Day 26 Mumbai Mangalore

Day 38 Cochin Dubai

Day 38 Dubai London

Heathrow

Date Sector Train Timing Class

Day 12 Delhi-Agra Mangla Express

Day 14 Bharatpur-Kota Golden Temple Mail

Day 17 Kota – Jodhpur Ranthambore Exp

Day 33 Calicut-Cochin Jan Shatabdi

In a Nutshell... Day 1 - Arrival in Calcutta. Transfer to The Oberoi Grand.

Day 2 - Culture in Calcutta. The Oberoi Grand.

Day 3 - Fly to Bagdogra, transfer to Glenburn Tea Estate.

Day 4-6 - Exploring Darjeeling. Glenburn Tea Estate.

Day 7 - Fly to Amritsar, via Delhi, transfer to Ranjits Svaasa.

Day 8 - Golden Temple & Wagah Border Ceremony. Ranjits Svaasa.

Day 9 - Fly to Delhi and transfer to Aman New Delhi.

Day 10 - Old Delhi by bike. Evening cooking class. Aman New Delhi.

Day 11 - Old and New Delhi by Ambassador Car. Aman New Delhi.

Day 12 - Train journey to Agra and transfer to Amarvilas Hotel.

Day 13 - Sunrise at the Taj Mahal. Amarvilas Hotel.

Day 14 - Visit Fatehpur Sikri, train to Kota & transfer to Bhainsrorgarh.

Day 15-16 - Activities at Bhainsrorgarh Fort.

Day 17 - Train journey from Kota to Jodhpur. Raas Haveli.

Day 18-19 - Jodhpur activities. Raas Haveli.

Day 20 - Overland transfer to Nimaj and Chhattrasagar Tented Camp.

Day 21 - Activities at Nimaj. Chhattrasagar Tented Camp.

Day 22 - Overland drive to Nagaur. Ranvas Haveli.

Day 23 - At leisure. Ranvas Haveli.

Day 24 - Drive to Jodhpur and fly to Mumbai. Taj Mahal Palace.

Day 25 - Mumbai LIVE & Dharavi Slum Tour. Taj Mahal Palace.

Day 26 - Fly to Mangalore & overland transfer to Neeleshwar Hermitage.

Day 27-29 - At leisure on the Keralan Coast. Neeleshwar Hermitage.

Day 30 - Overland transfer to Wayanad and Tranquil Plantation.

Day 31-32 - Exploring Sulthan Battery. Tranquil Plantation.

Day 33 - Overland to Calicut and train to Cochin. Brunton Boatyard.

Day 34 - Keralan Cuisine. Brunton Boatyard.

Day 35 - Transfer to Alleppey for a Backwaters Cruise. Houseboat.

Day 36 - Disembark & transfer to Mohamma. Purity.

Day 37 - Backwaters at leisure. Purity.

Day 38 - Transfer to Cochin airport for departure home.

Your Recommended Itinerary...

Day 1 - Arrive in Calcutta Arrive in Calcutta. You will be welcomed by a laterallife representative who will

assist you with your luggage and drive you to the hotel to check in where you’ll

spend the rest of the day at leisure or head out on a walking tour of part of the city or partake in a Bengali cooking experience (not included).

Calcutta is a city of glaring contrasts ‑ a curious blend of the old and the new,

partly feudal, partly born out of growing urbanisation and partly un‑definable. It is a medley of the east and the west, a graft of a European city imposed on the

Asian landscape that gives Calcutta its charm, confusion and excitement. Being

only about 300 years old, Calcutta has few great historical monuments. It is a city though that shocks on first impression but eventually visitors usually fall for

its charms. Accommodation: The Oberoi Grand, Premier Room.

Meals: None.

Day 2 - Calcutta (Republic Day)

Today you will be guided on a walking and sightseeing tour of Calcutta. This will start at around 11am, which is after the key Republic Day events, when re-

strictions in the city apply. We may be able to obtain special entry tickets to the Republic Day parade – though this will not be guaranteed until a few days be-

fore.

The sightseeing tour of the city includes a visit to the Victoria Memorial, Calcut-

ta's most imposing and monumental dream in marble which was opened by the Prince of Wales in 1921; St. Paul's Cathedral and the Indian Museum, the largest

in India, with one of the best collections of Indian art. You may also visit the

charity of Mother Teresa, the Botanical Garden and the Kali Temple. This evening you will have the option to be hosted for drinks and dinner at the Tol-

lygunge Club along with our charming manager in Calcutta and some of his friends.

Accommodation: The Oberoi Grand, Premier Room.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner with drinks at the Tolly Club.

Day 3 - Journey to Darjeeling This morning you will be assisted with a transfer to the airport for your flight to

Bagdogra. On arrival you will be welcomed and driven (approx 3 hours) to Glenburn, locat-

ed in the heart of the Darjeeling tea plantation region and in the foothills of the

Himalaya mountain range. Accommodation: Glenburn Tea Estate, Suite.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 4 - Darjeeling Tea

After a leisurely start to the day, meet Sanjay, the Tea Estate Manager who will show you around the plantation and the tea processing factories. Learn how to slurp and

taste the variety of teas from Darjeeling to Green tea and the exclusive White Peony.

Tea drinkers all over the world must regularly bless the memory of the person who,

around 1840, decided that the climate of the Darjeeling region was conducive to the growth of tea. Huge forest areas were cleared and tea planted. Chinese experts were

called in to teach the art of tea making and thousands of Nepalis were hired to work in the tea gardens. Darjeeling Tea had such a premium value in the Western markets

that it was soon considered to be one of the finest teas in the world especially in terms of aroma and the delicacy of taste. Not only has tea formed the backbone of

the economy in the region but "Darjeeling" and "excellent tea" have become synony-

mous. Accommodation: Glenburn Tea Estate, Suite.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 5 - River Hiking

We recommend you spend the day hiking to the local River. This is a full day activity which takes about 5-6 hours. You walk downhill through the tea plantations where the

you’ll observe the two leaves and a bud technique and follow the trail to the river. At certain points, the river has to be crossed, which requires knee-deep wading.

Arrive at the head of the river which meanders along the northern boundary of the

Estate, and where the landscape varies from bamboo groves and tea fields, to thickly

forested areas. You will find a huge variety of birds, butterflies and plant life along the way, as well as pug marks (if not sightings!) of animals which visit the river for a

drink! Feel free to stop and catch some fish along the way, or for a paddle in one of the rock pools. Enjoy a picnic lunch along the way, and end up at The Glenburn

Campsite by teatime. Return to the lodge in the early evening in time for dinner.

Accommodation: Glenburn Tea Estate, Suite. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 6 - Darjeeling Historic Railway & Toy Train

Today you will be driven to explore Darjeeling which includes a ride on the Toy Train.

With the backdrop of the mighty snow clad Himalayan peaks, busy and bustling Dar-jeeling is the most important hill station in Eastern India. The mighty Kanchenjunga

peak overlooks the town from where you can enjoy a great view of the peak on a clear day. Take a ride on the famous Darjeeling Hill Railway (now a World Heritage

Site) from Darjeeling Town, through the picturesque Batasia Loop and then to the neighbouring town of Ghoom. Today Darjeeling is a welcoming town full of local mar-

kets, small shops, temples and a fresh mountain air.

Accommodation: Glenburn Tea Estate, Suite. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 7 - Journey to Amritsar

This morning you will be driven (approx 3 hours) to Bagdogra airport to board your flight to Delhi. Connect with an onward flight to Amritsar. On arrival you will

be welcomed and driven to your comfortable home-stay style accommodation. Accommodation: Ranjist’s Svaasa, Jnr Residential Suite.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 8 - The Golden Temple & Wagah Border Ceremony

Head out to explore Amritsar. Amritsar has many claims to fame. It is the holy city of the Sikhs, being very intimately connected with the colourful history of

this proud, martial race. It is also a showpiece of the prosperity and wealth of the state of Punjab. Life in Amritsar is deeply influenced by the holy shrines of

the Golden Temple and the tour of Amritsar essentially involves a visit to the

magnificent Golden Temple - which is the lavishly decorated holiest shrine of the Sikhs. The origin of the temple dates back to 1574 though the temple was com-

pleted 1601. The other important site of the city is the Jallianwala Bagh which is within a few minutes walk from the temple and commemorates the 2,000 Indi-

ans who were killed or wounded at this site, shot indiscriminately by the Colonial

British forces in 1919.

In the evening you will be driven to witness the Wagah Border ceremony. The Wagah border closing 'lowering of the flags' ceremony is a daily military practice

that the security forces of India (Border Security Force) and Pakistan (Pakistan Rangers) have followed since 1959. This ceremony takes place every evening

before sunset at the Wagah border, which as part of the Grand Trunk Road was

the only road link between these two countries before the opening of the Aman Setu in Kashmir in 1999. The ceremony starts with a perfectly coordinated pa-

rade by the soldiers from both sides and ends up in the lowering of the flags.

One Jawan stands attention at the gate on each side. As the sun sets, the Iron

Gate at the border is opened and the flags are lowered. The flag is folded and the ceremony ends with a retreat that involves a handshake between the sol-

diers. The grandeur of the ceremony attracts many visitors from both sides of the border to this 45 minutes of choreographed and routine display.

Accommodation: Ranjist’s Svaasa, Jnr Residential Suite.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 9 - Journey to Delhi You’ll be driven to the airport this morning to board the flight to Delhi. On arrival

you will be welcomed and driven to your hotel. The car will be at your disposal for the rest of the day.

Accommodation: Aman New Delhi, Deluxe Room.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 10 - Old Delhi by Bike

This morning you will be taken for a bicycle tour of Old Delhi which includes breakfast at Karim’s - a local institution café in the heart of the old town. This a fanatic way to

explore the city in a different way. Unique, green and most importantly, it’s a project with a soul. Riding a bicycle in the old town truly inspires the mind. Today, when you

pass through a four hundred year old web of alleys held together with great big

meshes of electric cables and infused with the smell of brewing tea and simmering breakfast curry, you see a mind boggling co-existence of the past and the future,

competing for your attention. Emerging from this rainforest, thick with traditional ar-chitecture- typical of Shah Jahan’s time, you will find yourself in British Colonial Civil

Lines - a Delhi from another period - and during the tour you’ll also see the Red Fort, Jama Masjid and the giddying Spice Market. Return to the Aman for an afternoon at

leisure.

In the evening you will be driven to a local house for a cooking demonstration by Pra-

been Singh followed by dinner. Prabeen Singh is a seasoned cook who teaches cook-ing classes in Delhi and also writes a food column in The Sunday Guardian. She has

also appeared on NDTV food. She is well known for her great personal style and culti-

vated cuisine and does cooking demonstrations for various visitors to India who are looking to gain an insight into food and culture. She ties culinary insights to Indian

culture and society in general. After the cooking lesson, you will join Prabeen for din-ner along with friends of hers, always a fun evening with lively conversations.

Accommodation: Aman New Delhi, Deluxe Room. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 11 - Old & New Delhi by Ambassador Spend a full day touring Old and New Delhi by classic Ambassador Car. Pulsing with

energy and colour, Old Delhi is laced by a maze of narrow lanes, which twist and turn between the tall, leaning buildings. You will witness the hustle and bustle of bazaars

where you will experience the full sights, sounds and aromas indicative of the Indian

sub continent. In Old Delhi, visit the famous Red Fort, Jama Masjid with its tapering minarets and wonderful marble domes and Chandni Chowk with the option to experi-

ence an old-fashioned rickshaw.

In complete contrast, New Delhi stands in formal splendour. It is a city of wide boule-

vards that offers ever changing perspectives of Lutyen's landscaped city. It is also a city known for its formal parks, magnificent Parliament Building, the Rashtrapati Bha-

wan (the official residence of the President of India in the 330 acres of land and de-signed by Sir Edwin Lutyens) and India Gate. In New Delhi you will also visit Qutab

Minar, the 72.5m high tower dating back to the 13th century, and Humayun's Tomb, which was built in the 16th century and architecturally considered the forerunner to

the Taj Mahal.

A car and driver will be at your disposal this evening.

Accommodation: Aman New Delhi, Deluxe Room. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 12 - Journey to Agra

This morning you will be driven to the railway station to board your train which departs from Delhi at 0920, arriving in Agra at 1220 hrs. Upon arrival you will be welcomed and

transferred to the luxurious Amarvilas hotel.

Later you will be guided on a very interesting heritage walk run by a local NGO. The

walk starts from a little known Mughal era monument, before entering a village where you will have an opportunity to have an insight into local life. Continue to a Mughal

era mosque – above all you will witness the community work being done by the NGO with the help of local children and how it is changing their lives for the better. The

walk will end in Mehtab Bagh – which is the river bank on the opposite side to the Taj Mahal which provides an opportunity to see the Taj from an entirely different angle and

perspective - far away from the crowds!

Accommodation: Amarvilas, Premier Room with Balcony. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 13 - Sunrise over the Taj Mahal

Rise early for sunrise over the Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal is at its best at sunrise and

sunset ‑ just when the light, playing on the marble of the tomb and the reflections in the stillness of the waters, presents this incredible building in all its beauty. It is a

monument of love built by Shah Jahan in 1630 for his Queen, Mumtaz Mahal to en-shrine her mortal remains. For twenty two years 20,000 men laboured day and night to

build this masterpiece, which has held the world awestruck ever since. The Taj Mahal is truly one of the wonders of the world. Afternoon at your leisure.

Accommodation: Amarvilas, Premier Room with Balcony.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 14 - Visit Fatehpur Sikri and Journey to Bhainsrorgarh This morning you will be driven to Bharatpur railway station to board the train to Kota.

Enroute to Bharatpur you will visit Fatehpur Sikri. Visit the deserted Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri which was built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and abandoned after fifteen

years due to a scarcity of water. Here you will see the city's many graceful buildings, which include the Jama Masjid, the Tomb of Salim Chishti and the Panch Mahal. On

arrival in Kota, you will be welcomed and driven (approx 1.5 hours) to Bhainsrorgarh.

Bhainsrorgarh’s setting is in a truly remote location. On the approach, the 250 year old fort and palace hang precariously over the river's cliff edge. This is a special place to

stay, just 5 suites, all with views of the river and surroundings. The rooftop terrace is a wonderful place to hang out and breakfast and lunch are served here. Dinner is served

inside in the main building. Food stands out here, and the Maharaja is certainly a pas-sionate foodie and is constantly interacting with guests and recounting stories about his

family history and current life in India.

Accommodation: Bhainsrorgarh Fort, Suite. Meals: Breakfast & Dinner.

Day 15 - Bhainsrorgarh

This morning explore the surrounding area on the river in a spacious country boat - there is more bird activity at this time and there are fair chances of sighting Muggers

(Crocodiles) while boating in the Chambal. This afternoon you can opt for Jeep drive to the tribal villages: Bhainsrorgarh’s proximity

to the Chambal River has resulted in a picturesque landscape dotted with small villages.

A ride through the countryside in an open 4x4 takes you through farms of wheat and mus-tard, typical villages under local governance and a tribal village which continues to live

without electricity. The drive that takes you over half an hour from the fort finally ends near the village of Balapura that rests by the edge of a reservoir. Ideally timed before sun-

set, tea and snacks are offered while you take in the beauty and tranquillity of the sunset. Accommodation: Bhainsrorgarh Fort, Suite.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 16 - Bhainsrorgarh

This morning, grab a bicycle and explore the area along with your guide. We suggest go-ing to visit The Baroli Temples where the work of architecture is just brilliant -built in the

9th century by the Hun Rulers, this temple complex is approximately 9 km from Bhainsror-

garh Fort. In the afternoon head out for a Picnic lunch on an island from where you may spot the Mugger Crocodiles. The Island is an ideal place for Sun Downers! This evening

we suggest a cooking demonstration in the property where you will have the chance to learn authentic recipes.

Accommodation: Bhainsrorgarh Fort, Suite. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 17 - Journey to Jodhpur Today you will be driven 90 minutes to the train station in Kota to board the 1200 train to

Jodhpur. Arrive at 2200 where you are welcomed and transferred to Raas. Accommodation: Raas Haveli, Heritage Suite.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 18 - Jodhpur

This morning you will be taken for a sightseeing tour of Jodhpur. Rao Jodha, chief of the Rathores, a Rajput clan, founded Jodhpur in 1459. Until recent times, Jodhpur was known

as the ancient kingdom of Marwar, the largest kingdom in Rajputana. Standing at the edge

of the Thar Desert, Jodhpur is the largest city in Rajasthan after Jaipur. The city is domi-nated by the huge Mehrangarh Fort that sits atop a sheer rocky ridge right in the centre of

the town. Your tour of Jodhpur city will include a visit to the majestic Mehrangarh Fort and the beautiful Jaswant Thada.

In the evening you will experience zip wiring. Flying Fox operate India's first zip line tours – a unique and exhilarating journey between battlements, hill forts and ridge tops located

at Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur. Enjoy breath-taking views as you fly down a series of ultra

-strong steel zip lines, securely attached by a harness and pulley – propelled simply by gravity. Trained instructors accompany you to ensure your safety and entertain you with

their local knowledge. Accommodation: Raas Haveli, Heritage Suite.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 19 - Jodhpur at leisure. Enjoy a day at leisure in Jodhpur. A private cooking demonstration is included this

evening to learn more about traditional Rajasthani food. Accommodation: Raas Haveli, Heritage Suite.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 20 - Journey to Nimaj

You’ll be driven (approx 2.5 hours) to Nimaj where we suggest a two night stay at Chhattrasagar Camp, a unique setting of luxury tents built on top of the dam.

Water is a limited resource in much of Rajasthan and for this reason in the late nine-

teenth century, Thakur Chhatra Singh of Nimaj, a powerful noble, decided to dam a

seasonal stream flowing through his estate. His vision was to create a water reservoir which would harvest the monsoon rains. The dam was completed in 1890 and

changed the dry scrub into prime agricultural land. Farmers struggling for sustenance on parched lands were invited by Thakur Chhatra Singh to settle

around the reservoir. Today the great grand children of Thakur Chhatra Singh have

created the camp where guests can enjoy a relaxing stay, visiting the local farms, walking around the humble villages and bird-watching.

Accommodation: Chhattrasagar Camp, Tent. Meals: Breakfast & Dinner.

Day 21 - Chhattrasagar

Enjoy a day’s touring around Chhattrasagar and Nimaj.

Accommodation: Chhattrasagar Camp, Tent. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 22 - Journey to Nagaur

You’ll be transferred 3.5hours today to the very untouristy city of Nagaur for a 2 night

stay at the recently renovated Ranvas Haveli, located inside Ahhichatragarh Fort. The Ahhichatragarh Fort, meaning the ‘Fort of the Hooded Cobra’ dates back to 4 AD and

has evolved through the Passage of time as a fort and palace Complex. Ah-hichatragarh is one of the finest and most extensive examples of Rajput – Mughal

architecture in the Marwar Region. The Fort Features a series of painted palaces

Mosques, temples, intricate baoris (reservoirs), water Systems, fountains, open terrac-es and Mughal pleasure Gardens.

Within this Magnificent Fort lies an 18th Century Residence of the Ranis’ of Maharaja

Bakht Singh of Jodhpur, which have been meticulously restored to offer elegant ac-commodation within these 10 Haveli’s. Each Haveli is named after one of the Rani’s.

In one of the most well preserved queenly residence guests can have a chance to ex-

perience living heritage. This is a heritage property in the purest sense – a regal resi-dence, from which to explore Ahhichatragarh Fort; known simply as the Nagaur Fort.

Accommodation: Ranvas Haveli, Junior Suite. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 23 - Nagaur

Spend the day enjoying your stay in this ancient fort. We recommend an early rise to walk the ramparts and you’ll see the city coming to life below. Return to the alfresco

dining area for a gourmet breakfast and spend a little time relaxing by the pool. Accommodation: Ranvas Haveli, Junior Suite.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 24 - Journey to Mumbai

Today you will be assisted with a 2.5 hour transfer to Jodhpur airport to board flight to Mumbai. On arrival you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel.

Accommodation: The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Luxury Grand Sea Facing Room. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 25 - Mumbai LIVE & Dharavi Slum Tour This morning you will be guided around Mumbai in a very unique way on a tour called

MUMBAI LIVE. You start from The Gateway of India, drive past the colonial buildings around the Kalaghoda area & then visit Crawford Market and observe locals at work.

Proceed to Churchgate Railway Station to see the Dabbawalas in action. From here –

you can take the train to Mahalaxmi station which is the 6th station from Churchgate (it takes around 15 mins by slow train) and from Mahalaxmi Station visit the enor-

mous open-air laundry system at Dhobi Ghat.

Later today, embark on the Dharavi Slum Tour. A half-day tour of the Dharavi slum in Mumbai is a fascinating and eye-opening experience. The slum, the largest in Asia

and home to more than a million people, is a place of touch living and poverty, but

also one of humour, enterprise and activity with an annual turnover of around US$665 million. The main industries are recycling, pottery, soap making, embroidery and

leather tanning. On your tour you are also able to visit the residential area of the slum where people live in truly unique conditions - narrow dirty lanes and cramped huts. In

a city where house rents are among the highest in the world, Dharavi provides a

cheap and affordable option to those who move to Mumbai to earn their living. The tour is both educational and eye-opening and is an experience that will stay with you

for a very long time. Accommodation: The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Luxury Grand Sea Facing Room.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 26 - Journey to Neeleshwar

This morning you will be transferred to the airport to board your flight (9W 433, which departs at 0900 hrs/ arriving Mangalore at 1020 hrs) to Mangalore. Upon arrival you

will be driven (approx 3 hours) to Neeleshwar, located in a remote coastal enclave on the northern Keralan coastline.

Behind a patch of pristine beach tucked off to the side of a peaceful fishing village this is paradisiacal Kerala, still undiscovered by mass tourism. It seems almost a shame to

let this secret out of the bag, but it offers a taste of Kerala before it became famous.

Accommodations are simple Kerala-style cottages with thatch roofs that echo the

homes of local fishermen. The beach is a short stroll away from your private terrace, but staff organize all kinds of outings, and at night there are visits by cultural perform-

ers, including demonstrations of Kalari and various dance forms. The two restaurants serve up a mix of catch of the day seafood competing with exquisite Indian cuisine.

Accommodation: Neeleshwar Hermitage, Deluxe Seaview Bungalow.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 27-29 - Beach at leisure Spend a few days of r&r at Neeleshwar. We recommend an afternoon cruise through

the neighbouring Backwaters on a traditional rice boat and a cycle around the local villages.

Accommodation: Neeleshwar Hermitage, Deluxe Seaview Bungalow.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 30 - Journey to Sulthan Bathery Today you will be driven (approx 6 hours) to Sulthan Bathery and the delightfully wel-

coming Tranquil Plantation run by charming hosts Victor and Ranjini Dey. Tranquil is a

400 acre private coffee and spice plantation, nestled within the remote and lush rain-forest of Wayanad, in the north part of Kerala, India. With just 8 rooms and 2 luxury

Tree Houses, Tranquil Resort is a home stay experience like none other. Accommodation: Tranquil Plantation, Tree Villa.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner.

Day 31-32 - Wayanad at leisure

Spend two days enjoying the tranquillity and natural beauty of the landscape around Tranquil Plantation. You’ll be taken on a tour of the plantation to learn about the spice

and coffee production (plenty of rich coffee is to be enjoyed here) and in your own time head out on one of the 12 hiking routes. Spanning the 400 acre plantation, the

hikes range from the “Braveheart” to the “Teaser” walk which are well marked out

and sign boarded along the route - maps are provided! Accommodation: Tranquil Plantation, Tree Villa.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 33 - Journey to Cochin

This morning you will be driven to Calicut railway station to board train to Cochin. On arrival you will be welcomed and driven to your hotel.

Accommodation: Brunton Boatyard, Deluxe Sea View Room Meals: Breakfast.

Day 34 - Epicurean Cochin

Head out on a guided walking tour of Cochin. Formerly a princely state which beck-

oned travellers from distant shores, Cochin is also known as "The Queen of the Arabi-an Sea". Sightseeing of Cochin will include the Mattancherry Dutch Palace, the famous

Jew Street, the beautiful Cochin Synagogue built in 1568 and St. Francis Church. You

will also be taken to see the Chinese fishing nets along the shores.

Later today you will be accompanied to the home of well-known local chef Mrs Nimmy Paul for a cooking demonstration and hands on lesson. Afterwards, join her and her

husband Paul for lunch. Note the very ‘local’ Dal Roti Restaurant is a lively spot for an authentic Indian dinner!

Accommodation: Brunton Boatyard, Deluxe Sea View Room

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch.

Day 35 - Backwaters (Cruise) You’ll be transferred approx 1 hr 45 min to Alleppey where you’ll board a traditional

styled riverboat for a tranquil Backwaters cruise. Meander through the canals and the backwaters and observe the local culture and waterlife. You’ll see ravines and rivulets,

long stretches of winding canals and waterways dotted by tiny hamlets and lush green

paddy fields manned by scarecrows, and unimaginable village life. There will be a break for a traditional Keralan lunch onboard and the opportunity to go deeper into

the canals by local canoe. Anchor in the evening and watch sunset over the waters. Dinner will be served onboard.

Accommodation: Traditional Houseboat, A/C Bedroom

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 36 - Backwaters (Mohamma) Rise this morning to a homecooked Keralan breakfast and disembark around 9am.

You’ll be driven around 30 minutes to Mohamma for the final two nights where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Purity which overlooks Lake Vembanad.

Accommodation: Purity, Suite

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 37 - Backwaters at leisure. Day at leisure at Purity.

Accommodation: Purity, Suite

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 38 - Departure flight home. Transfer two hours to Cochin airport for your departure flight home.

Meals: Breakfast.

Laterally sleeping...

Oberoi Grand, Calcutta The imposing Oberoi Grand hotel is located in the heart of bustling Calcutta and a

stone's throw from the 100-year-old New Market and famous Maidan park, thus per-fectly situated for sightseeing and exploring. Built on the site of the Theatre Royal,

which burned down in 1911, the chalky white building is a classic example of Raj-era

grandeur. The lobby sets the tone: elegant, with black marble floors topped off by an impressive chandelier. All 200 rooms and nine suites differ in size and décor and offer

a full complement of modern amenities. The pool is a treat during the heat of the day!

Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling Glenburn is a heavenly little plantation retreat that lies on a hillock above the banks of

the River Rungeet, high in the Himalayas, overlooked by the mighty Kanchenjunga mountain range. Started by a Scottish tea company in 1859, Glenburn has now

passed into the hands of one of India’s pioneering tea planting families – The Pra-

kashes, who have over the years come to be known as the “Chaiwala family” – which literally means “tea planters”. Glenburn remains a remote and still a fairly "secret"

destination that will allow you to immerse yourself in its rich culture, varied landscapes and local gastronomy. With 1600 acres of estate to explore, the privacy and authentic-

ity of this experience is magical.

Ranjit’s Svaasa, Amritsar Just off the aristocratic Mall Road, down an easy-to-miss narrow lane, what used to be

a charming drive through the private estate of Rai Bahadur Rattan Chand, lies a quaint humble haveli, Ranjit’s SVAASÁ. Hidden behind an old rustic wooden gate and

enveloped by local residences all around, Ranjit’s SVAASÁ is run by the Mehra family

with a history dating back over 200 years. It’s possibly one of the oldest surviving havelis in Amritsar with photographs hanging in the Time Corridor as far back as sev-

en generations. The haveli is perfect for those seeking a homely atmosphere spiced by the signature SVAASÁ touch.

Aman New Delhi Located in the heart of New Delhi, just south of the Delhi Golf Course and adjacent to

the medieval Nizamuddin complex lies this beautiful city-based resort. From its prime location where the modern and historic are juxtaposed in perfect harmony, it is possi-

ble to enjoy Delhi’s most acclaimed cultural and historic sites, museums, art galleries and diverse shopping opportunities. The design of the resort is contemporary, comple-

mented with Indian touches such as hand-made rugs and jaali screens. Spacious

suites afford guests the opportunity to relax in enveloping comfort, while the heady aroma of fresh flowers throughout the resort brings nature home to this metropolitan

haven.

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The Oberoi Amarvilas

Indulge with your own private view of the greatest monument of love at The Oberoi Amarvilas, recognised as the leading luxury hotel in Agra. Wake up to the glorious sight

of the Taj Mahal, bathed by the first rays of dawn. Rated amongst the leading resorts in the world, The Oberoi Amarvilas offers the best view of the Taj Mahal in Agra. The hotel

is located 600 meters from the Taj Mahal and most rooms and suites offer breathtaking

views of the monument. Built in a style inspired by Moorish and Mughal architecture, the resort is a splendid display of terraced lawns, fountains, reflection pools and pavil-

ions with rich interiors that take you back to an era of Emperors and Princes.

Bhainsrorgarh Fort, Near Kota Bhainsrorgarh is a fortified outpost of the kingdom of Mewar, 235kms northeast of Udai-

pur and 50kms south of Kota. It crowns a 200 ft rocky ridge overlooking the river Chambal, and offers 5 unique suites each with a different character and personality. A

few rooms have magnificent views over the Chambal River and the hill. The host family will charm you with stories from their illustrious past and accompany you on local sight-

seeing visits to the villages and farmlands.

Raas, Jodhpur

Raas has a great location if you want to be in the heart of the old town bringing with it

all the hustle, bustle and the early morning prayers at the neighbouring mosque (they do have double glazed windows and earplugs if you need them). This new haveli is im-

pressive. One building is original and the rest are reconstructions - 'cool' is definitely the 'look' of the hotel as contemporary is fused with some heritage features. The social are-

as are very inviting. Amazing views of Mehrangarh Fort above, with the pool area facing

the al fresco white marbled restaurant. A small spa completes the facilities. There are 39 minimalist rooms with more incredible views of Mehrangarh Fort.

Chhatra Sagar, Nimaj The famed “Camp Chhatra Sagar” has been recreated by the great grand children of Thakur Chhatra Singh and has a spectacular setting. Eleven luxuriously appointed tents are pitched on a dam with views of the lake and rich green farmland below. In the late nineteenth century, Thakur Chhatra Singh of Nimaj, a powerful noble of the desert king-dom of Marwar (Jodhpur), decided to dam a seasonal stream flowing through his es-tate. His vision was to create a water reservoir which would harvest the monsoon rains. It was an ambitious project but Thakur Chhatra Singh eventually completed the dam in 1890 changing the dry scrub into prime agricultural land.

Laterally sleeping...

Ranvas Haveli, Nagaur Located inside Ahhichatragarh Fort (fort of the hooded cobra) and a short drive from

Jodhpur, 10 havelis, fantastically well restored in the 12th century Fort which is owned by the Maharaja of Jodhpur. Although there has been extensive restoration, this haveli

-hotel has done a wonderful job of creating a true heritage-feel property. All the

rooms are different and each haveli has its own colour scheme and furniture. Bath-rooms feature the ‘sit-down’ with a copper bucket and jug shower setup as well as a

shower should you prefer that option. The internal gardens and courtyards are beauti-ful and not over-manicured which makes a refreshing change.

Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai

This famous hotel, combining Moorish, Oriental and Florentine styles, was built in 1903. Located in the heart of Mumbai, it offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea

and the Gateway of India. The Heritage wing of the hotel, has wonderfully decorated rooms and suites, all with modern amenities that have been recently renovated. As a

city hotel, there is a great atmosphere and ambience within thanks to its diverse col-

lection of first class restaurants and bars, as well as its various boutiques.

Neeleshwar Hermitage, Northern Kerala Neeleshwar Hermitage is a lovely peaceful beach retreat in North Kerala. It is one of a

kind and undoubtedly one of the best beaches attached to a hotel in Kerala. It is set in a palm grove, just back from an unspoiled and safe beach. It has an immensely

calm and peaceful atmosphere and has been constructed according to the architectur-

al principles of Kerala Vastu. The 16 traditional, thatched cottages are large, airy and wonderfully inviting. They each have their own, very private courtyard garden. Yoga

and massages are available - and the local area offers an alternative to the ‘backwater experience’ of the South.

Tranquil Plantation, Sultan Bathery Set among 400 acres of picturesque coffee and vanilla plantation, Tranquil is a 70-

year-old plantation bungalow that has been beautifully restored. This delightful homestay has a sturdy tree house, entirely constructed from natural materials with

bamboo woven walls, coffee roots for tables and shelves, and a branch growing in-side. There is also a secluded terrace for fabulous forest views. The hosts Victor and

Ranjini Dey ensure the combination of efficient hotel standards with a relaxed, per-

sonal homestay ambience. Guests can enjoy Indian and continental buffet dinners around the big table. There is a shady platform for hammocks and a swimming pool.

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Brunton’s Boatyard, Cochin

Brunton’s was designed and built in the style and principle of the early Dutch and Portu-guese architecture of Fort Cochin. Because it resembles the old colonial buildings of Co-

chin it’s hard to believe this is in fact a newish build. The simple lime washed walls, sloping tile roof and terracotta floors create an atmosphere with the Giant Rain Trees

completing the picture. Situated at the Harbour mouth overlooking the busy ship chan-

nel all rooms boast a magnificent view of the sea and the Delta where boats of every size and colour constantly pass by. The rooms too are quaint and designed in keeping

with the rest of the hotel. The eye catching antique “Four Poster" forms the centrepiece in the suites. Little foot stools are even provided to help you climb onto the bed!

Premium Houseboat, Backwaters With the reduction of water borne transportation these boats have been imaginatively

converted for tourism purposes with elegant bamboo and cane superstructures that pro-tect you from the sun and heat while allowing you to experience life in rural Kerala in

unhurried comfort. Meals are served on board, and there are places where you can get ashore to stretch and explore the villages on foot or by canoe. Your houseboat is fully

kitted out and includes furnished a/c bedrooms with attached bathrooms, cool running

water and a lounge area in which to relax and enjoy the sights along the backwaters.

Purity, Lake Vembanad

Overlooking Lake Vembanad, Purity has 4 unique deluxe rooms and 2 suites, the Vem-banad suite covering the entire 1st floor and the garden cottage, an ideal suite for a family. Modern decor and furnishings, wrap around verandahs, open courtyards and a large, cool sitting room give this lovely villa a great feeling of openness, space and calm. Purity will be an escape for the soul and lies secluded within a network of rivers, canals, streams and lagoons, in the famous backwaters of Kerala by the village of Mu-hamma.

...thinking Laterally Bon Appétit

The sights sounds and smells of India bring a culinary sensory overload in every ca-

pacity. Rajasthani food in particular is rich and spicy with sauces made from ghee, mountains of rotis and chapattis, cups of the cardamom infused masala chai and

rounded off by the decadent gulab jamun dessert. Forget chicken tikka masala, this is real Indian cuisine and you’ll return looking for a little more than your average ruby;

together with learning how to eat Indian style with your fingers!

The People

1.1 billion people, the second most populous nation on earth and by many estima-tions soon to be the first. India’s people can be overbearingly friendly, crafty, cheeky

and hospitable all at the same time. The caste system remains a strong part of Indian

culture and psyche and as such it is very common to be asked one’s profession and age to ascertain where another person fits into society. Embrace each day and expect

the unexpected as there really is no country on earth quite like India.

Culture

In India, cows are everywhere! With 26 distinctive breeds of cows, India has 30 per cent of the world's cattle. Because the cow is respected as a sacred animal, it's al-

lowed to roam unharmed, and they are pretty used to the traffic and the rhythm of the city. So, you can see them roaming the streets in towns and cities, grazing un-

mindfully on the roadside grass verges and munching away vegetables thrown out by

street sellers. Stray and homeless cows are also supported by temples, especially in southern India.

History Do you like to play the game Snakes and Ladders? It started out as a morality lesson

in India. It was created in the 13th century by a poet named Gyandev. In the game,

the ladders represented virtues while the snakes represented bad habits. The game was designed to deliver the message that virtue can lead you to heaven while vices

take you further away from reaching it.