INDIA, NEPAL & BHUTAN Optional Sightseeing Tours

The following optional tours are available for purchase prior to your departure from the USA
(minimum of 2 passengers is required):

Agra

A SUNSET VISIT TO THE TAJ MAHAL

The Taj Mahal, was built by emperor Shan Jehan in memory of his beloved queen. Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1631, and is believed to have taken 18 years to complete, with over 20,000 craftsmen working around the clock. The Taj Mahal is unique in its perfect proportions, distinct femininity, medium of construction and ornamentation. Its marble exterior reflects rose and golden tints at sunset, while it is dazzling white during the day.
$57.00 per person: includes transfer, guide and entry fees

BHARATPUR BIRD SANCTUARY
The Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary (The Keoladeo Ghana National Park) hosts a variety of bird species from across the globe. Close to 380 species of birds are found in this 29 sq km stretch. Approximately 10 sq km is marshland, while the rest is comprised of scrublands, grasslands and more than 44,000 trees that are used by nesting birds each year.
Bharatpur is historical in its own way. The Maharaja of Bharatpur is credited for its creation in 1890. He enclosed a large area with embankments and further divided it with earthen dams called 'bunds', creating a large number of marshes and lakes. Conservation efforts were originally started by Dr. Salim Ali and received further impetus when the area was deemed a national park in March 1982. In 1985, Bharatpur was accepted as a World Heritage Site.
$92.00 per person: includes transfer from Agra, guide and entry fees (Minimum 2 persons)

Delhi

FULL DAY AGRA TOUR
In Delhi, early morning transfer to the rail station for the express train to Agra. On arrival, transfer to a local hotel for breakfast. First visit Fatehpur Sikri , the deserted red sandstone city built by Emperor Akbar as his capital. Still in pristine condition, it is not hard to imagine what the grandeur of court life must have been like in this veritable fairytale city. Then visit the magnificent monument to love, the Taj Mahal . Begun in 1631, it was built by Shah Jehan in memory of his beloved queen. What makes the Taj Mahal unique are its perfect proportions, distinct femininity, medium of construction and ornamentation. The marble exterior reflects rose and golden tints at sunrise and sunset, while it is dazzling white during the day. Finally, visit Agra Fort , including the chambers of this royal residence. Enjoy the local life and bazaars amid the bustle of everyday life in Agra. In the evening return to Delhi by train and transfer to your hotel.
$220.00 per person
( The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays )

Half-Day Sightseeing Tours


MUSEUM TOUR
The National Museum
in New Delhi has a collection of over 2 million exquisite works of art, both Indian and foreign, covering more than 5,000 years of cultural heritage. Its rich holdings of various traditions and disciplines represent unity amid diversity, an unmatched blend of past and present, bringing history to life.
The National Railway Museum focuses on the importance of the development of India's railways in relation to the heritage of India. Opened in 1977, the collection at this one-of-a-kind museum in Asia focuses on history, heritage, fun and entertainment, all in one place. Covering over 10 acres, it is comprised of a gallery devoted to various models, documents and photographs, plus 100 life-size rail exhibits.
$55.00 per person: includes transfer, guide and entry fees (Minimum 2 persons)

SHOPPING TOUR
$45.00 per person: includes transfer and guide fees (Minimum 2 persons)

TEMPLE TOUR
Birla Mandir ( Laxmi Na rayan Temple) enshrines Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the Hindu Trinity and is a major attraction in Delhi. Built in the Nagara style of architecture interspersed with modern influences. Friezes, sculptures and relief carvings depicting scenes from mythology add to the aesthetic beauty of this temple. The highest Shikara of the temple above the sanctum sanctorum soars 160 feet high. The grounds are dotted with miniature rock temples while an artificial landscape complete with mountains and cascading waterfalls adds to the beauty of the temple complex.

Iskcon Temple complex is dedicated to the Lord Krishna. Completed in 1998, the main hall accommodates 1,500 worshippers. There is also a vegetarian restaurant, library, museum and auditorium where a special animatronics show, presents various mythological characters who enact and preach the Gita.

Gurdwara Bangla Sahib is the most prominent Sikh house of worship in Delhi, instantly recognizable by its stunning golden dome. The grounds include the temple, a kitchen, school, art gallery and tranquil pond.

Lotus Temple (Bahai Temple) often called the ‘Taj of modern India', is made of pure white marble in the shape of a half-opened lotus, with nine pools on an elevated platform signifying the green leaves of the lotus. Completed in 1986, its innovative design has won numerous architectural and engineering accolades.
$45.00 per person: includes transfer and guide fees


SOUND AND LIGHT SHOW
In the evening, enjoy the Son et Lumiere show at the Red Fort. Legends of Indian history, from the time of the Mughals until independence, unfold as the story of Delhi and the Red Fort comes alive in a spectacular mosaic of sound and light.
$39.00 per person: includes transfer, guide and entry fees

Kathmandu

FLIGHTSEEING TOUR OVER THE PEAKS OF HIMALAYAS

Because the flights operate subject to weather conditions, we recommend passengers purchase this optional tour in Kathmandu. Your local guide will provide assistance.
$200.00 per person:
includes airport transfer

Nagarkot

NATURE TREK TOUR

Because the tour operates subject to weather conditions, we recommend passengers purchase this optional tour in Nagarkot. Your local guide will provide assistance.
$45.00 per person: includes guide fees


  
  

 

Last Revised 4/27/07