17-Nights A Portrait of India - Land Journey from $9,390
Tauck
OFFER ID 1494476
A Portrait of India
Live like a maharajah at some of the world's top-rated hotels – including a two-night stay at the award-winning The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra, featuring views of the Taj Mahal, and three nights in Udaipur at The Oberoi Udaivilas...
You'll be amazed by all that's included on A Portrait of India... Our popular India tours give you a complete look at this complex country from north to south. Cruise by houseboat in southern India through Kerala's beautiful canals. A boat ride witnesses spiritual ceremonies along the River Ganges in Varanasi, and a cooking demonstration features a taste of hospitality on an exclusive insider visit to a chef's private home in Kerala. Enjoy a special Maharajah evening with dinner and entertainment... a traditional dance performance... with special insights from Tauck's local experts and much more...
17 nights from $9,390 per person
Itinerary Details
Tauck World Discovery: A Portrait of India
Day 1 New Delhi, India
Arrive New Delhi
Tour begins: 2:00 PM, The Leela Palace New Delhi. A transfer is included from Indira Gandhi International Airport to your luxury hotel, The Leela Palace New Delhi, renowned for gracious service in the heart of the city. Because most flights arrive late at night or very early in the morning, you may want to travel a day early to ease the effects of jet lag and relax a bit before Tauck's India tour begins – just mention this at the time of booking; Tauck can arrange an extra night at The Leela Palace New Delhi. Your trip begins this afternoon with a welcome briefing by your Tauck Director, followed by a guided orientation tour of New Delhi including a drive through of Vijay Chowk, with views of the Secretariat buildings, Parliament House, the Presidential Palace and the India Gate, commemorating Indian and British soldiers. Next, stop at the Gandhi Smriti Museum, paying tribute to the inspiring leader, Mahatma Gandhi, who forced change through non-violent protest, leading to an independent India in the late 1940s. You'll have much to discuss this evening at the welcome cocktail reception and dinner.
Meals: D
Day 2 New Delhi, India
Back in time in Old Delhi
You'll tour two UNESCO World Heritage Sites today as you explore the centuries-old history and culture of Old Delhi and environs. The first, which you'll visit this morning, is Humayun's Tomb, constructed for the Mughal Emperor Humayan and other members of his family in the 1570s, and set within beautiful gardens. The first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent and the first large structure of its kind built of red sandstone, this Mughal creation popularized Persian-influenced architecture in India, and was an inspiration for the Taj Mahal in Agra. After an orientation tour of Old Delhi followed by lunch, visit the five-story sandstone Qutb Minar Victory Tower, an imposing minaret built over eight centuries ago, part of one of the earliest surviving mosque complexes in India. Return to your hotel in New Delhi and spend the rest of the afternoon and evening as you please.
Meals: B, L
Day 3 Varanasi, India
Rituals on the River Ganges in Varanasi
Fly to the ancient city of Varanasi, built on the banks of the sacred River Ganges. Since the 6th century BC, this city has been a key destination for pilgrims who seek blessing and purification in the river's holy waters. A sightseeing tour visits Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon. Tonight, take a journey by boat along the River Ganges to witness ceremonies "putting the river to sleep." Amidst hundreds of lighted candles and flower offerings, tonight will be a special highlight of Tauck's India tour.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 4 Agra, India
Ganges cruise & off to Agra & the Taj Mahal
Awaken early for a cruise on the River Ganges to view the Varanasi sunrise ceremonies, then fly Delhi before transferring to Agra for a two-night stay and tomorrow's visit to one of the world's most famous and recognizable buildings, the Taj Mahal. An incredible domed mausoleum complex of white marble, built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to memorialize and house the tomb of his beloved third wife and completed in 1653, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered to be the greatest architectural achievement in the whole range of Indo-Islamic architecture – and yes, you'll have a view of it from your room in your award-winning luxury hotel, The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 5 Agra, India
Wonders in Agra – the Taj Mahal & Agra Fort
Guests who wish may visit the Taj Mahal in time for sunrise – the gates open at sunrise. Those not going quite so early will join your Tauck Director a little later than sunrise (but still early morning) for a guided visit to the spectacular Taj Mahal, which reveals the love story behind the white marble wonder and UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its unique design and relief work in marble and inlay with precious and semi precious stones; your visit also includes time to explore on your own and take photographs. A guided tour of the massive red sandstone Agra Fort, yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site, follows. Inside, you'll get a very good look at medieval lifestyles of 16th- and 17th-century Mughal emperors. Following an afternoon spent at leisure, dine as you please this evening from among a selection of your hotel's fine restaurants.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 6 Jaipur, India
Enjoy the royal treatment in Jaipur
Travel to Jaipur for a two-night stay at The Oberoi Rajvilas, reflecting the gracious lifestyles of India's legendary Rajput princes. A sightseeing tour of Jaipur includes the City Palace Museum and the Jantar Mantar Observatory – a collection of architectural astronomical instruments for measuring time, predicting eclipses, tracking stars in their orbits, figuring out the declinations of planets and determining the celestial altitudes – all built by Maharajah Jai Singh II in the 18th century. Attend a special evening fit for Maharajah royalty tonight, celebrating India's cultural traditions, music, dance and cuisine.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 7 Jaipur, India
Jaipur's glittering palaces and pavilions of Amber Fort
Today's sightseeing includes the many gems of Jaipur, from the massive gateways and pillared pavilions inside Amber Fort to a tour of Amber Palace, with its magnificent domes, massive ramparts and glittering hall of mirrors. After a thali style lunch preceded by a puppet show, enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Jaipur, pursuing what interests you most.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 8 Udaipur, India
Jaipur & on to Udaipur
This morning, fly from Jaipur to Udaipur for a three-night stay at your luxury Oberoi hotel in Udaipur – nestled along the banks of Lake Pichola and spread over fifty acres, which includes a twenty-acre wildlife sanctuary with deer and wild boar. Consistently voted among the top luxury hotels in the world, The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur is a destination experience unrivaled anywhere – while Udaipur itself is a Rajasthan city of palaces and lakes, often called the "Venice of the East" and the "Most Romantic City in India." This afternoon brings you for a visit to the Nagda Temples, a pair of 10th-century Hindu Temples dedicated to one of the principal deities of Hinduism, Vishnu. Dinner is at your leisure in your hotel, named India's best hotel by Condé Nast Traveler and 4th in the world's top 100 hotels.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 9 Udaipur, India
Discovering Udaipur's treasures
An Udaipur sightseeing tour with your local guide includes a stop at the City Palace complex – a labyrinth of richly decorated courtyards, frescoed galleries, and marble temples overlooking a lake that was once the elegant home of the Maharajah of Udaipur – and, a short walk away, the Jagdish Mandir Temple, where music or chanting is heard throughout the day. This evening, enjoy a a sari and turban demonstration followed by a memorable Tauck Exclusive private dinner at Royal Repast, the private residence of descendants of the Bedla clan who have played a significant role in the affairs of the Udaipur State – serving as Prime Ministers, valued advisors, commanders in chief of the armed forces and hosting all the dignitaries visiting Udaipur as state guests.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 10 Udaipur, India
Saheliyon-ki-Bari, Udaipur's markets & the city at leisure
Today's sightseeing begins with a visit to the 18th-century fountain gardens of Saheliyon-ki-Bari followed by an auto-rickshaw ride around the Udaipur's bustling spice and vegetable markets, for an insightful glimpse into everyday life in Udaipur. In the vegetable markets, women in brightly colored saris sit amongst the stalls, surrounded by baskets brimming with their fresh and equally colorful produce, while burlap bags or metal pans entice with a kaleidoscopic array of curries and spices. The rest of the day is free to explore more of this "City of Lakes" as you wish. Due to its many picturesque locations, Udaipur has supplied scenic backdrops to many a film or television show over the years; portions of movies including Darjeeling Limited, Opening Night, Heat and Dust, Octopussy and Gandhi, plus the TV miniseries The Jewel in the Crown, were filmed here.
Meals: B, D
Day 11 Kochi, India
Fly to Kochi (Cochin)
Fly via Bangalore to Kochi (known as Cochin during colonial times) in the state of Kerala, on the southern tip of India, home to coconut groves, paddy fields and wide beaches. Dinner tonight is at your hotel.
Meals: B, D
Day 12 Kochi, India
Traditional cuisine & more in Kochi (Cochin)
Your day today starts off with a morning lecture on Cochin and Kerala followed by a cooking demonstration and lunch at a chef's private home. This afternoon, you'll have a chance to visit the many historical sites of Kochi including; Fort Kochi, the Mattancherry district, a guided exploration of the Dutch Palace and the 16th-century Paradesi Synagogue. This evening, enjoy a performance of the renowned Kathakali Dancers prior to dinner at the hotel.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 13 Kumarakom, India
Kerala houseboat cruise & Mohiniattam dancers
Travel through the small villages of coastal Kerala as you make your way to the picturesque island of Kumarakom in Lake Vembanad to continue your Tauck India tour with a two-night lakeside stay at Kumarakom Lake Resort. En route, board a thatched-roof rice boat that's been converted into a luxury houseboat for a cruise through Kerala's palm-fringed canals; this region is often referred to as another "Venice of the East." Tonight at your resort, you'll be treated to a program featuring dancers performing the classical Indian dance form known as Mohiniattam, dating to the 16th century.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 14 Kumarakom, India
Kerala villages & Kumarakom resort leisure
After an exclusive morning walk for Tauck guests only in one of Kerala's villages, spend the entire afternoon enjoying the many activities and amenities offered by your beautiful lakefront resort. An unforgettable martial arts demonstration this evening is both educational and entertaining; there is no other ancient martial practice in the world that can compete with its training system and application techniques. Have dinner at your leisure at the resort.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 15 Mumbai, India
Fly to Mumbai and do some city sightseeing
Fly to the "City of Gold," Mumbai (known in earlier times as Bombay), surrounded on three sides by the Arabian Sea. Upon arrival, an introductory sightseeing tour maps out the city and its landmark sites for you. Your accommodations for the next three nights are at The Oberoi, Mumbai; dine tonight at your choice of selected restaurants.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 16 Mumbai, India
Treasures of Mumbai & a Heritage Walk
This morning, a walking tour of landmarks includes the Gateway of India, a massive triumphal arch 87 feet high, built to welcome King George V and Queen Mary, who visited in 1911; actually, they were welcomed with a cardboard facsimile because the arch wasn't finished until 1924, but since then the Gateway has been an iconic symbol of the city, and its plaza an important site for public gatherings and ceremonies. You'll also visit the city's grand railroad terminal, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (formerly called Victoria Terminus), a jaw-dropping fusion of Indian and High Victorian Gothic architecture, elaborately decorated with arches, domes, turrets, statuary, and bas-reliefs, built in 1887. Amid the colorful bustle of the city, you're bound to see hordes of dabbawalas (men in white uniforms on bicycles delivering hot mid-day meals in "tiffin" cans), a traditional sight here since the 19th century. Enjoy your lunch at Souk, a restaurant at the elegant Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, then return to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure.
Meals: B, L
Day 17 Mumbai, India
Cruise to Elephanta Island
From the Gateway of India in Mumbai, take a boat cruise this morning to Elephanta Island (or Gharapuri, the "city of caves") with a local guide to explore the Elephanta Caves, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This series of rock-cut cave temples, most of which are dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, was hewn from solid basalt sometime between the fifth and seventh centuries AD. Return to your Oberoi hotel and spend the rest of the afternoon as you please in Mumbai. Join us this evening for a farewell cocktail reception and dinner at the hotel, as your incredible journey to India draws to a close.
Meals: B, D
Day 18 Mumbai, India
Journey Home
Tour ends: Mumbai. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from your hotel in Bombay to Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. Most international flights depart between 2:00 AM and 3:00 AM.
Meals: B
Excursions
HALF DAY EXPLORING OLD KOCHI
Leave from pier for a panoramic drive along Mahatma Gandhi Road ending with a stop at the local market, known as the Broadway. A walk through, this local market in the new town of Ernakulum, is an enriching experience. A surprise lurks at every corner and whether you like it or not, you are propelled forward in a sea of people, brightly coloured baubles and warm, comforting smells.
Photo stop at Shiva Temple.
St. George's Forane Church, locally known as Edapally Church is a Catholic pilgrimage church in Edapally Kochi, India. Asia's largest shrine to Saint George, about five million people visit it every year.
The church is thought to have been founded in 593 AD. It is regarded as one of the oldest churches in Kerala, after the seven churches founded by Thomas the Apostle in the first century AD. The church was originally dedicated to the Virgin Mary (Marth Mariam). In 1080, a new church was built adjacent to the old church. A nine-day festival is celebrated annually as part of the Feast of Saint George. The church, also a destination for non-Christians, attracts offerings of gold, chicken, and eggs.
Gaze at the ancient Chinese fishing nets that line the shores of Fort Cochin.
You’ll be fascinated by the Dhobi Khana, your next stop. Each morning washing from all over Kochi is brought here to be soaped, soaked, boiled, beaten, and thrashed. Stop here for photos that you’ll never be able to duplicate anywhere else.
| TIMING | ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST | TERRAIN | W/C FRIENDLY |
| 00h00 – 00h30 | Depart the pier for panoramic tour of Ernakulum | This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues | |
| 00h30 – 00h55 | Photo Stop at Shiva Temple | 10 meters / Flat | |
| 00h55 – 02h10 | Drive through Marine drive and stop for a walk through the Broadway Market | 300 meters / Flat | |
| 02h10 – 02h30 | Depart for Edappally Church | ||
| 02h30 – 03h10 | Visit Edappally Church | 50 meters / Flat / 02 steps | |
| 03h10 – 04h20 | Proceed to Chinese fishing net and visit | ||
| 04h20 – 05h30 | Later drive to Drive to Dhobi Khana and visit. Back to port |
HALF DAY HERITAGE TRAIL - A WALK THROUGH KOCHI
HALF DAY HERITAGE TRAIL - A WALK THROUGH KOCHI
The best way to discover a new place is on foot; explore the streets of historic Fort Cochin and learn more about this town that is brimming with tales of maritime traders, who made Cochin the first European township in India.
A brief stop will be made at the Chinese fishing nets & St. Francis Church one of the area’s famous landmarks. These nets are set up on bamboo poles and held horizontally by huge mechanisms, which lower them into the sea. This is a unique symbol of the centuries-old influence on this coastline.
Princess Street is one of the oldest streets in Fort Kochi. The bungalows built in the European style and the other buildings of colonial architecture lining both sides of the street make it pretty as a picture.
The buildings here, with bronze stucco walls and peeling plaster, house antique stores, cigar shops, provisional stores, curio shops, kiosks, cafes, restaurants, art galleries and so on. Some are being used as homestays for tourists.
For the best view of the street, head for the Loafer’s Corner, a popular meeting place at the confluence of Princess Street, Peter Celli Street and Bastion Street.
The plain, squat walls that surround the two-storey Mattancherry or “Dutch Palace”, do not offer a particularly appealing invitation, but you will be delighted once inside. Its wooden interior is decorated with a remarkable series of murals. In the royal bedroom alone are 45 paintings illustrating the Ramayana every inch of space covered with rich colour, and painstaking detail. There is also an interesting collection of Dutch maps of old Kochi, coronation robes belonging to the maharajas, royal palanquins, weapons and furniture.
Next. The Jew Town surrounding area called Jew Town is a fascinating mix of antique shops, warehouses, and spice auction rooms. Signs for N.X. Jacob’s tailor shop, and the offices of J.E. Cohen serve as reminders of a once thriving community now consisting of about seven families. You’ll have a chance to stroll here before returning to your ship.
Return back to pier
| TIMING | ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST | TERRAIN | W/C FRIENDLY |
| 00h00 – 00h30 | Depart the pier to Fort Cochin | This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues | |
| 00h30 – 02h00 | Visit Chinese fishing nets and St. Francis Church |
695 meters / Flat/4 | |
| 02h00 – 02h30 | Walk through princess street and loafer’s corner | 300 meters / Uneven | |
| 02h30 – 03h00 | Drive to Mattancherry | ||
| 03h00 – 03h30 | Visit Dutch Palace | 200 meter/20 steps | |
| 03h30 – 04h00 | Leisure time in Jew town | ||
| 04h00 – 04h30 | Return back to pier | 50 meters / Flat |
Kochi, Shore Excursion - 4 hours
Kochi, Shore Excursion - 4 hours
You will be met at the pier. (Excursion timings will be subject to the ship's arrival and departure)
Once you disembark from your cruise-liner, you will meet your guide in the arrival hall. He will escort you to your waiting vehicle and together you will head to the historic town of Mattancherry. The Mattancherry Palace was built by the Portuguese in 1557 and presented to the Raja of Kochi in exchange for trading rights. The palace is two stories high and is built in the traditional Kerala style of “nalukattu” (four buildings around a central courtyard). Made of richly-carved wood, there are beautiful murals on display here depicting scenes from the Hindu epics – Ramayana and Mahabharata and some of the Hindu legends. The Palace also houses Dutch maps of old Kochi, royal Palanquins, coronation robes of former Maharajas of Kochi as well as period furniture.
You will next visit the Jewish Synagogue. One of the oldest in India, it is set in the Jewish Quarter, commonly known as “Jew Town”. The area is famous for its aromatic spice market and its antique shops. The interior of the Synagogue is decorated with 18th century blue ceramic Cantonese tiles, hand painted and each one different!
You will end your tour at the Chinese Fishing Nets, which were first erected between 1350 and 1450 AD indicating trading ties with China.
You will stop for lunch at a local restaurant before heading back to the port to board your ship.
Inclusions:
Private chauffeur driven air conditioned vehicle, Private guide, Complimentary Soft beverages and Bottled water in the car, Monument entrance and still camera fee, Meet and Assist at all airports and hotels, Porterage at airports, All currently applicable taxes
Exclusions:
Expenses of any personal nature (laundry,telephone calls etc, unless specified) Tipping at hotels and to guides/escorts (unless specified), Meals (unless specified), Any insurance or Visa, Any hike in monument entrances fee or revision in government taxes, Air fare is quoted separately.
* Terms and conditions apply
Kochi, Shore Excursion - 8 hours
Kochi, Shore Excursion - 8 hours
Meet at the port of Kochi -KERALA
(Excursion timings will be subject to the ship's arrival and departure)
KOCHI: 8HRS
Disembark from the ship and meet your personal guide on the pier.
You will drive to the historic Fort Kochi area where you walk in the area known as “Jew Town”.
You will visit the Mattancherry Palace, which was commissioned by the Portuguese for the Raja of Kochi in exchange for trading rights. The palace is two storeys’s high and is built in the traditional Kerala style known as “nalukattu” (four buildings around a central courtyard). Made of wood and richly carved, the palace exhibits memorabilia from the Raja of Kochi’s collection, but it is best known for its outstanding murals painted on the walls. Fast fading, one can still see some of these excellent 16th century paintings illustrating episodes from the great Indian epic – The Ramayana.
Surrounding the Synagogue are a jumble of antique and spice shops, and souvenir shop and it is a fun area to wander at leisure.
You will have time to explore the Heritage Zone, which with its varied architectural styles highlights Cochin’s history of being occupied by various foreign rulers. In this area, which is protected, is St Francis’ Church, first established by the Portuguese in the 1500s. This is one of the earliest European churches in the country. The simple façade served as the prototype for future churches here. Vasco Da Gama was buried here in 1524 before his body was taken to Portugal 14 years later. You will also visit the Santa Cruz Cathedral which was built in the late 19th century and has impressive murals on its ceiling. The walking tour ends at the Chinese Fishing Nets, which were first erected between 1350 and 1450 indicating trading ties with China.
You will stop for lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon you drive to the Folklore Museum. This Museum has an exceptional collection of private artifacts from all over the South and interestingly has a theatre attached as an added attraction. The collection includes masks, beautifully carved old wooden doors, musical instruments, lamps and tribal jewelry. You will also have the opportunity to watch a private performance of the classical Kathakali dance.
Early evening you will return to the ship.
Inclusions:
Private chauffeur driven air conditioned vehicle, Private guide, Complimentary Soft beverages and Bottled water in the car, Monument entrance and still camera fee,Meet and Assist at all airports and hotels, Porterage at airports, All currently applicable taxes
Exclusions:
Expenses of any personal nature (laundry,telephone calls etc, unless specified) Tipping at hotels and to guides/escorts (unless specified), Meals (unless specified) Any insurance or Visa, Any hike in monument entrances fee or revision in government taxes, Air fare is quoted seperately.
*Terms and conditions apply
Excursions
FULL DAY MARVELS OF MUMBAI
FULL DAY
MARVELS OF MUMBAI
Proceed to Gateway of India, the city’s most famous landmark –an Indo-Saracenic archway built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. It was originally conceived as an entry point for passengers arriving on P&O steamers from England; today it is remembered more often as the place from which the British staged their final departure. You will make a stop here for photographs.
See the highlights of the city from the comfort of your minivan as you set off for a tour of Mumbai city. Your tour begins with the Gateway of India (PLEASE STOP FOR A WHILE SO THE GUEST CAN TAKE PHOTO), the city's most famous landmark - an Indo-Saracenic archway built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. It was originally conceived as an entry point for passengers arriving on P&O steamers from England; today it is remembered more often as the place from which the British staged their final departure.
Continue through Marine Drive, Mumbai's seaside promenade, an eight-lane highway with a wide pavement. Its graceful curve sweeps from the skyscrapers at Nariman Point to the foot of Malabar Hill. This hill is Mumbai's ritziest neighborhood. Popular since the 18th century because of its forested slopes, fresh sea breezes and panoramic views, merchants and colonial governors built many mansions and bungalows on its hillsides.
Your drive includes a look at a most remarkable railway station. Inspired by St. Pancras Station in London, the Victoria Terminus was built during Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee year. It is an extraordinary conglomeration of domes, spires, Corinthian columns and minarets in a style that was described by journalist James Cameron as "Victorian-Gothic-Saracenic-Italianate-Oriental-St. Pancras-Baroque". The first train in India left from this station in April 1853; today half a million commuters use the station every day.
Depart to Church Gate Station and spend some time watching the dabba-wallahs, the members of the Mumbai Tiffin Box Suppliers Association. Every day 4,000 of them deliver fresh, home-cooked food from 100,000 suburban kitchens to offices in the downtown area. Each lunch is prepared by a loving wife or mother, and packed into a set of stackable aluminum boxes. The meals are carried to their hungry recipients dangling from shoulder-poles and bicycle handlebars, and stacked on decorated handcarts. Tins are rarely, if ever, lost, and always find their way home again to be washed up for the next day’s lunch.
Even if you are not possessed of an interest in other people’s dirty laundry, you’ll be fascinated by the dhobi ghats, your next stop. Each morning washing from all over Mumbai is brought here to be soaped, soaked, boiled, beaten, and thrashed. The next day, after being aired, pressed, folded and wrapped, the bundles are returned from whence they came. The secret that keeps the operation running smoothly is the coded symbol that each dhobi-wallah places on every item. Invisible to the untrained eye, this mark ensures that nothing will be lost. Stop here for photos that you’ll never be able to duplicate anywhere else.
Proceed for Taj Mahal Hotel for Lunch on direct payment basis.
You will continue to The Prince of Wales Museum, crowned by a white Mughal-style dome, the finest work done by architect George Wittet, who also designed the Gateway of India.
Return to pier.
| TIMING | ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST | DISTANCE & TERRAIN | W/C FRIENDLY |
| 09h30 – 11h00 | Orientation tour of Mumbai, Gateway of India, Malabar Hill and VT Station. | This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues | |
| 11h00 – 11h20 | Proceed to Churchgate station | ||
| 11h20 – 11h40 | Watch the Dabba-wallas at Churchgate | 10 meters / even | |
| 11h40 – 12h15 | Drive to Dhobi Ghat | ||
| 12h15 – 12h45 | Visit Dhobi Ghat | 100 meters / Flat / 5 steps | |
| 12h45 – 13h15 | Drive to Taj Mahal Hotel for lunch on direct payment basis | ||
| 13h15 – 14h15 | Lunch at Taj Mahal Hotel | 150 meters / Flat / 4 steps | |
| 14h15 – 15h30 | Drive to Prince of wales Museum and visit | ||
| 15h30 – 16h00 | Return to pier | 50 meters / Uneven |
HALF DAY MUSEUM AND GALLERIES OF MUMBAI
HALF DAY MUSEUM AND GALLERIES OF MUMBAI
HALF DAY
MUSEUM AND GALLERIES OF MUMBAI
Explore the history, art and people of Mumbai and India during this informative half-day visit to the area's finest museums and galleries.
Depart from pier for the drive to Mani Bhawan, Gandhi's Bombay residence between 1917 and 1934. Mani Bhawan is now a permanent museum and memorial to the Mahatma. It contains a research library of more than 20,000 volumes, and a series of tiny dioramas depicting his life story in an interesting fashion. The walls are covered with photos of historic events and noteworthy people.
Next, visit the Prince of Wales Museum, easily recognized by its unique white Mughal-style dome. The museum is the finest work by architect George Wittet, who also designed the Gateway of India. It houses interesting displays of jade work, antique weapons, Indian paintings, illustrated manuscripts, exquisite miniatures, and clay and terracotta figures from the 3rd century B.C. Adjacent to Prince of Wales Museum, you will find the Jehangir Art Gallery. Mumbai's best-known venue for contemporary art, Jehangir is home to five small galleries displaying changing exhibits of 20th century arts and crafts from around the world.
Return to pier.
| TIMING | ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST | DISTANCE / TERRAIN | W/C FRIENDLY |
| 00h00 – 00h30 | Pier to Mani Bhawan | This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues | |
| 00h30 – 01h00 | Arrive and visit Mani Bhawan | 20 steps/ Uneven Terrain | |
| 01h00 – 01h30 | Leave for Prince of Wales Museum | ||
| 01h30 – 02h30 | Arrive and visit Prince of Wales Museum | 50 steps/flat Terrain | |
| 02h30 – 02h35 | Walk down to adjacent Jahangir Art Gallery | ||
| 02h35 – 03h20 | Arrive and visit Jahangir Art Museum | 15 steps/ flat Terrain | |
| 03h20 – 04h00 | Back to pier |
FULL DAY THE CAVES OF ELEPHANTA
FULL DAY THE CAVES OF ELEPHANTA
FULL DAY
THE CAVES OF ELEPHANTA
More than a thousand years ago, Hindu craftsmen carved columns and sculptures out of a series of caves located on an island off the shores of Mumbai, creating a temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Portuguese named the island Elephanta, after the large statue of an elephant they found near the spot where they docked their ships. Come and discover the unique beauty and intriguing tales of these temple caves with today’s memorable excursion.
Travel by minivan vehicle to the Gateway of India, the city’s most recognized landmark. Built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary, the archway was originally conceived as an entry point for people arriving on steamers from England. Today, the gateway serves as a launching point for your own exploration of the Elephanta Temple.
Boarding a motor boat, enjoy the approximately one hour and thirty minutes cruise to the Elephanta landing. From the jetty you have the option of either taking the mini train or walking approximately 15 minutes to the base of the long stairway which leads to the top of the hill, where the caves are located. As you enter, you will see a magnificent sculpture of Shiva as Nataraj, showing an enraptured expression as he removes the veil of ignorance. The most outstanding sculpture is a bust of Trimurti—the three-faced Shiva representing the Hindu trinity, Brahma the creator, Vishnu the preserver, and Shiva the destroyer. In other panels, Shiva is depicted in service to humanity as he brings the River Ganges to Earth, and at his most fearsome as he crushes the demon of Andhaka. Later, board the motor boat for return cruise to the Gateway.
Re-board your vehicle for the transfer back to your ship.
| TIMING | ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST | DISTANCE & TERRAIN | W/C FRIENDLY |
| 00h00 - 00h15 | Depart from the pier by minivan to the Gateway of India | This tour is NOT suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues | |
| 00h15 - 01h45 | Board the motor boat and cruise to Elephanta Island | ||
| 01h45 - 03h45 | Arrive and visit Elephanta Island | 1.5km / Uneven, cobblestones / 125 long steps each way | |
| 03h45 - 05h15 | Board your motor boat and return to Mumbai | ||
| 05h15 – 05h30 | Return to the pier |
FULL DAY THE VICTORIAN PAST
Experience the highlights of this fascinating city, with its Western monuments and Eastern sensibilities.
Begin your tour with photo stop at the Gateway of India, the city’s most famous landmark an Indo-Saracenic archway built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary.
Next visit, The Church of St John the Evangelist better known as Afghan Church in South Mumbai, built by the British to commemorate the dead of the disastrous First Afghan War of 1838. The church is located in Navy Nagar in the Colaba area of Mumbai. Besides British soldiers it also commemorates different Indian regiments, such as the Bombay Army, the Madras Army, and Ranjit Singh's army from Lahore.
Drive along Marine Drive-Mumbai’s seaside promenade, an eight-lane highway with a wide pavement. Its graceful curve sweeps from the skyscrapers at Nariman Point to the foot of Malabar Hill, Mumbai’s ritziest neighborhood. At the top of hill are the Hanging Gardens, laid out in 1881. Here, an assortment of hedges, trimmed into animal shapes. The gardens also offer a superb view of the bustling city centre in the distance.
You then proceed to Bhau Daji Lad Museum (formerly the Victoria and Albert Museum) one of the oldest museums in Mumbai. It was established in 1855 as a treasure house of the decorative and industrial arts. The museum houses a large number of archaeological finds, maps and historical photographs of Mumbai.
You then visit, Crawford Market - one of South Mumbai's most famous markets. It is named after Arthur Crawford, the first Municipal Commissioner of the city. The market is situated near to Victoria Terminus railway station. The market houses a wholesale fruit, vegetable and poultry market.
Finally, visit and savor a relaxing lunch while exploring the historic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, which dates back to the 1500s before returning back to the ship.
| TIMING | ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST | DISTANCE / TERRAIN | W/C FRIENDLY |
| 00h00 – 00h10 | Leave from pier to Gateway of India | This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues | |
| 00h10 – 00h15 | Arrive at Gateway of India (photo stop only) | 10 steps/ flat Terrain | |
| 00h15 – 00h30 | Leave for Afghan Church | ||
| 00h30 – 01h00 | Arrive and visit Afghan Church | 4 steps/ flat Terrain | |
| 01h00 – 01h30 | Leave for Hanging Gardens | ||
| 01h30 – 02h00 | Arrive and visit Hanging Gardens | 2 steps/ Uneven Terrain | |
| 02h00 – 02h15 | Leave for Victoria & Albert Museum | ||
| 11h15 – 12h00 | Arrive and visit Victoria & Albert Museum | 5 steps/ Uneven Terrain | |
| 03h00 – 03h15 | Leave for Crawford market | ||
| 03h15 – 03h45 | Arrive and visit market | Uneven Terrain | |
| 03h45 – 03h15 | Leave for hotel Taj Mahal | 10 steps/ flat Terrain | |
| 04h15 – 05h45 | Arrive at hotel and proceed for lunch (On Direct Payment) | ||
| 05h45 – 06h00 | Back to pier |
Mumbai: 9 hours
Depart the pier for the famous Gateway of India en route to Banganga. This Indo-Saracenic archway was built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary, and is the city's most famous landmark.
Walk around Banganga, the sacred tank surrounded by four hundred-year-old temples and modern skyscrapers. Nowhere are Bombay’s paradoxes more evident than at Banganga. Part of an ancient temple complex, the water in this tank is believed to come from the Holy Ganges. It sprung forth when Rama, the exiled hero of the epic Ramayana stopped at the spot five thousand years ago, in search of his kidnapped wife Sita. Overcome with fatigue and thirst, he asked his brother Laxman to bring him some water. Laxman instantly shot an arrow into the ground, and water gushed forth from the Ganga, over a thousand miles away. Although the story is the stuff of legend, the tank has always been sacred. On pious occasions, thousands turn up to take a ritual dip in its mossy waters, and offer flowers at the ancient Banganga Temples.
Drive to Dhobi Ghat.
Visit the `Dhobi Ghat’, the city’s open-air laundry! where “Dhobis’ (washermen) attend to an astounding quantity of washing daily. Clothes, linen, towels… are washed in small open air cubicles rented out each day. An itemized account is logged in a notebook and clothes collected from households are returned a week later. Through the apparent chaos incredibly nothing gets lost from a countless number of pieces and most clothes somehow survive the beating they receive on the washing stones.
Drive to Churchgate Railway Station.
We stop at the Churchgate Railway Station to see the `Dabbawallahs’, members of the Bombay Union of Tiffin Box Carriers, described by Prince Charles as the symbol of this enigmatic and intriguing city. Each morning, the 2500 dabbawallahs call on suburban housewives who pack a freshly cooked lunch into small circular aluminum or stainless steel containers - `dabbas’. Typically the dabbawallahs collect 30-40 boxes, range them out on a long pole and cycle to the nearest station. Here he hands them over to a fellow dabbawallah who then transports them into the city for delivery to the consumer. Over 100,000 lunches of maybe sabze (vegetable curry), chapattis (Indian bread), dal (lentils) and pickle, make their way daily across town to the breadwinner and back again. The service which costs a few rupees a week, is a good example of the fine division of labor in India, reliable and efficient for the dabbawallahs pride themselves on never losing a lunch.
Drive to `Khyber’ restaurant for lunch which specializes in the Northwest frontier cuisine.
Lunch (on own)
Drive to Mani Bhawan passing through the teeming commercial areas, Crawford Market and many handsome buildings of Victorian Bombay, including the University and Victoria Terminus.
Visit the Gandhi Museum. Located on leafy Laburnum Road, a quiet lane named after its shady trees, Mani Bhavan is the old Mumbai residence of Mahatma Gandhi. It's a pretty, two-storied structure that now houses a reference library with over 2000 books, a photo exhibition of the Mahatma's life, and well preserved memorabilia, including an old charkha or spinning wheel that Gandhiji used to use.
Before returning to the pier, we spend some time where it all began, where the tide of human life rolls down the center of the street, unruffled by vehicles from all quarters ploughing their way through it. No visit to Bombay is complete without a foray into the bazaars of Bhuleshwar. The city’s densest concentration of lifestyle and retail jewelry stores is a crush of shop fronts, street stalls, hawkers and handicrafts and a seething mass of people. It may look like absolute chaos but the areas are closely knit, and cohesively built around the traditional residential complex, temples, flower markets, community halls, cow shelter and bazaars. Within a few square kilometers there are a dozen bazaars and more commodities for sale than you will see probably anywhere else in a lifetime.
Drive back to the ship.
Added Value:
- Tour Duration: 8 – 9 hours
Inclusions:
- Transportation by an air-conditioned vehicle
- Services of a local English speaking guide.
- All the entrance fees and camera fees.
- Credit card and bank charges.
- All the prevailing taxes.
Mumbai, Shore Excursion - 4 hours
Mumbai, Shore Excursion - 4 hours
You will be met at the pier. (Excursion timings will be subject to the ship's arrival and departure). Once you disembark from your cruise-liner, you will meet your guide in the arrival hall. He will escort you to your waiting vehicle and together you will set of to explore India’s most cosmopolitan city and financial nerve centre – Mumbai.
You will first explore the Fort area of Mumbai – Kala Ghoda, literally Black Horse – a neighborhood in South Mumbai. The crescent-shaped precinct is the city’s premier art district. You will drive past a large number of the city’s heritage buildings, full of museums, art galleries and educational institutions like the Jehangir Art Gallery, the National Gallery of Modern Art, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (previously called the Prince of Wales Museum) and The Arts Trust.
You will end your tour with a visit to Mani Bhavan. As poignant as it is tiny, this museum is in the building where Mahatma Gandhi stayed during visits to Bombay from 1917 to 1934. The museum showcases the room where the leader formulated his philosophy of Satyagraha (non-violent protest) and launched the 1932 Civil Disobedience campaign that led to the end of British rule and Indian independence.
Stop for a sumptuous lunch at a local restaurant before you return to the port area.
Inclusions:
Private chauffeur driven air conditioned vehicle, Private guide, Complimentary Soft beverages and Bottled water in the car, Monument entrance and still camera fee, Meet and Assist at all airports and hotels, Porterage at airports, All currently applicable taxes
Exclusions:
Expenses of any personal nature (laundry,telephone calls etc, unless specified) Tipping at hotels and to guides/escorts (unless specified), Meals (unless specified), Any insurance or Visa, Any hike in monument entrances fee or revision in government taxes, Air fare is quoted separately.
*Terms and conditions apply
Mumbai, Shore Excursion - 6 hours
Mumbai, Shore Excursion - 6 hours
You will be met at the pier. (Excursion timings will be subject to the ship's arrival and departure). Once you disembark from your cruise-liner, you will meet your guide in the arrival hall. He will escort you to your waiting vehicle and together you will set of to explore India’s most cosmopolitan city and financial nerve centre – Mumbai.
Your first stop will be to take pictures at Dhobi Ghat, a sight unique to this city. ‘Dhobi Ghat’ or “washerfolks’ place”, is the world's largest outdoor laundry, and where Mumbai's traditional washer-folk - or dhobis - provide a wonderful service, collecting dirty laundry, washing it, and returning it neatly pressed, all for a very small fee.
Drive to Churchgate Station where you get the opportunity to see the famed ‘dabbawallas’ or ‘lunch box carriers’ in action. The Mumbai dabbawallas are international figures now, thanks to Forbes Global. The Forbes story details the efficiency with which they deliver the dabbas or lunch pails of their customers. Around 5,000 dabbawallas collect and deliver 175,000 lunches every day and take the empty boxes back. Their operation has a six sigma rating which implies less than 3.4 errors in every million transactions. This is the same rating that has made companies like Motorola and GE world famous for their quality!
Later you will visit Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum, a structure steeped in Indian history and culture. Built in Renaissance revival style in 1872 as the Victoria & Albert Museum, it contains 3,500-plus objects centering on Mumbai’s history. This landmark building was renovated in 2008.
Stop for lunch at a local restaurant before you continue on your tour.
You will end your tour with a visit to Mani Bhavan. As poignant as it is tiny, this museum is in the building where Mahatma Gandhi stayed during visits to Bombay from 1917 to 1934. The museum showcases the room where the leader formulated his philosophy of Satyagraha (non-violent protest) and launched the 1932 Civil Disobedience campaign that led to the end of British rule and Indian independence.
You will then return to the port area.
Inclusions: Private chauffeur driven air conditioned vehicle, private guide, complimentary soft beverages and bottled water in the car, monument entrance and still camera fee, meet and assist at all airports and hotels, porterage at airports, all current applicable taxes.
Exclusions: Expenses of any personal nature (laundry, telephone calls etc, unless specified), tipping at hotels and to guides/escorts (unless specified), meals (unless specified) any insurance or Visa, any hike in monument entrances fee or revision in government taxes, air fare is quoted separately.
*Terms and conditions apply
Vacation Details
* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.
All fares are quoted in US Dollars.
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