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Mumbai, Varanasi, Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Udaipur
Consider our
post trip to Bhutan,
September 25 - 29, 2012,
or our pre trip to Nepal, September 12 - 14, 2012!
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 co-owner, Joel Cabrera.
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 Mumbai (Bombay), 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. This trip is being hosted by Zoom Vacations co-owner Joel Cabrera.
• 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.
• Professionally guided tour of the Mumbai including Dhobi Ghat, the Gateway of India, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi, and time permitting, the Prince of Wales Museum, including entrance fees.
• Gay nightlife excursion in Mumbai.
• Cocktail reception and welcome dinner in Mumbai in a modern setting
• Exclusive boat visit to the Elephanta Caves in Mumbai.
• 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 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 12 - 14, 2012
Read more!
Day 1 - Friday, September 14, 2012
Arrive in Mumbai, India
Arrive at Mumbai's International Airport this evening. You will be met at the airport by a Zoom Vacations representative who will give you a warm welcome with fresh flower garlands, and transfer to our landmark hotel by air-conditioned vehicle. Your room is availabe for immediate checkin.
Accommodations: Overnight stay at the luxurious TAJ Mahal Palace Hotel , Mumbai centrally located and overlooking the Arabian Sea.
Day 2 - Saturday, September 15, 2012
Mumbai
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in hotel.
Morning:
 The "City of Gold," Mumbai (Bombay), is surrounded on three sides by the Arabian Sea. We explore this legendary city and visit the Gateway of India, the entrance to the port of Mumbai and then cruise towards Elephanta Island. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this island was originally known as Gharapurti and was renamed as Elephanta after the Portuguese found a carved elephant there. The main attraction of the island is the four rock cut cave temples dating back to 5th-8th century AD. The most renowned is the cave sculpture of 'Trimurthi', a three headed figure almost 20 feet in height, of Lord Shiva as a creator, preserver and destroyer. The historical and spiritual vitality of this place is the pefect experience to get our feet wet in what we will experience along this trip.
Late Morning:
 Time permitting, we may also visit Dhobi Ghat, the city's open-air municipal laundry where thousands wash clothes brought daily from around the city. Also see the memorial at Mani Bhawan, once the residence of Mahatma Gandhi.
Afternoon:
Afternoon is free to either relax in the hotel or cover some more attractions of the city including the Prince Wales Museum, India's finest museum, housing treasures, artifacts, paintings and sculpture from the many periods covering India's history.
Evening:
Tonight we head out on the town for welcome dinner at one of the best retaurants in the city.
Accommodations: TAJ Mahal Palace Hotel, 5 Stars
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast and Welcome Dinner
Day 3 - Sunday, September 16, 2012
Fly from Mumbai 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 - Monday, September 17, 2012
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 - Tuesday, September 18, 2012
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 6 - Wednesday, September 19, 2012
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.
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 7 - Thursday, September 20, 2012
Agra
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in hotel
Morning:
 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.
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 8 - Friday, September 21, 2012
Agra to Jaipur via air conditioned vehicle
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in hotel
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 Taj Rambagh Palace Hotel, Jaipur, 5 Stars.
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast and Lunch
Day 9 - Saturday, September 22, 2012
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 Taj Rambagh Palace Hotel, Jaipur, 5 Stars.
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast and Lunch
Day 10 - Sunday, September 23, 2012
Fly from Jairpur to Udaipur
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in hotel
Morning:
 Fly to Udaipur. There is no place in Rajasthan which appeals more to the imagination of poets and painters, travellers and writers than Udaipur, an oasis in the desert state of Rajasthan.
Afternoon:
Private decorated boat cruise on Lake Pichola takes in views of island palaces, ancient temples along the shore, and the old walled city.
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 - Monday, September 24, 2012
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 - Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Fly from Udaipur to Delhi
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 25 - 29, 2012
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.
Mumbai
The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Mumbai *****
 2 nights
Since it opened in 1903, The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai has created its own unique history. From Maharajas and Princes to various Kings, Presidents, CEOs and entertainers, the Taj has played the perfect host. The hotel is an architectural marvel and brings together Moorish, Oriental and Florentine styles. Offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the Gateway of India, the hotel is a gracious landmark of the city of Mumbai.
Varanasi
The 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.
Delhi
The Oberoi New Delhi Hotel, Delhi *****
 2 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.
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
The Taj Rambagh Palace Hotel, Jaipur *****
 2 nights
In the finest tradition of Rajput hospitality, the Rambagh Palace 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.
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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