DARJEELING MAIL - Voyage of a lifetime on a private luxurious train
A cultural tour of India

A luxurious rail Journey from Mumbai to Kolkata via Rajasthan or vice versa on a private luxury train known for it’s state of the art services, cuisines, cabins and a lot more. With two exciting routes - the west bound starts off at Mumbai and proceeds to Udaipur, Jaipur, Delhi, Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Varanasi, Darjeeling and ends at Kolkata (itinerary given herewith). The east bound route whistles off from Kolkata and ends at Mumbai. Highlights include the Toy Train (one of the two trains recognised by UNESCO as a world heritage), sunrise cruise on the Ganges, Taj Mahal, UNESCO sites in Delhi, Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Mumbai with all private guiding and lots of fun activities enroute.

Day 01: Arrive Mumbai
Your voyage of discovery begins at Mumbai airport, where you will be met and transferred to the five-star Taj Mahal Hotel, conveniently located at ‘the Gateway of India’ for a luxurious two-night stay (meals today at your own arrangements).
Overnight: Taj Mahal, Mumbai (2 nights)

Day 02: Mumbai
This morning we take a short cruise to Elephanta Island, a lush island densely wooded with palm, mango and tamarind trees. The atmospheric and fascinating cave complex, which dates back to the 3rd-5th century, was designed to honor the life of Lord Shiva, one of the most auspicious Hindu gods and now a World Heritage Site. Marvel at the many statues and works of art dedicated to Lord Shiva. We return to Mumbai for lunch at the Khyber restaurant and in the afternoon you are free to explore Mumbai independently or visit one of the colorful local markets. In the evening a welcome drinks reception is followed by dinner at your hotel where you can get to know your fellow travelers who will share this remarkable Indian Odyssey. (B, L, D)

Day 03: Mumbai
The compelling city of Mumbai is rich in culture and history. Today we visit the ‘Dhobi Ghats’, an intriguing outdoor laundry. The dhobi is a traditional laundryman who collects your dirty linen, washes it and returns it neatly pressed. The Ghats are the laundries where they practice this historic tradition. Our tour then takes us in Fort Bombay and Gandhi’s House, now turned into a fascinating museum depicting his inspirational life. Lunch is served in a local restaurant. Mid–afternoon sees us boarding our private train, the Deccan Odyssey, a perfect way to experience the color, character and amazing diversity of India. Settle into your beautifully appointed cabin and enjoy the hospitable atmosphere of the Bar Car before experiencing fine Indian or western cuisine prepared by the Taj Hotel’s chefs.
Overnight: on board of private train (7 nights) (B, L, D)

Day 04: Mumbai / Udaipur
We spend leisurely morning onboard as the landscape and spirit of India unfolds before us. We then have the opportunity to listen to a talk on Indian culture before arriving at Udaipur, known as the ‘City of Lakes’ or ‘Venice of the East’. A beguiling tapestry of breathtaking lakes and opulently majestic palaces from the Rajput era awaits your discovery. The afternoon is spent admiring the awe-inspiring beauty of the Lake Palace constructed entirely of marble, which sits on its own island in the Pichhola Lake, and visiting the medieval grandeur of City Palace. (B, L, D)

Day 05: Udaipur / Jaipur
With a breakfast arrival into the capital of Rajastan, the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur overwhelms the senses as we embrace its rich and colorful past. This morning we visit the Amber Fort and explore its breathtaking and ornate majesty, including the magnificent Hall of Mirrors. After lunch in a local restaurant, we continue our exploration with a tour of the Jantar Mantar Observatory, the imposing and vast City Palace and the beautiful Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds. This delicately stunning, yet enduring monument is constructed entirely of pink sandstone and was built in 1799 to allow royal ladies to discreetly observe everyday life. Finally, if time permits, we explore a famous fabric market before returning to our train to refresh ourselves. This evening we dine in the elegant Rambagh Palace Hotel. (B, L, D)

Day 06: Jaipur / Delhi
One of the oldest cities in the world, Delhi is a bustling and vibrant city. Our fascinating city tour takes us in the Raj Ghat memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, the World Heritage Site of Humayun’s Tomb, the first example of Mughal architecture in India, and the towering Indo-Islamic Qutab Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world at 238 ft (75 m) which dates from 1368. Tonight we enjoy dinner on board the train. (B, L, D)

Day 07: Delhi / Fatehpur Sikri / Agra
After breakfast, we visit the Wolrd Heritage Site of Fatehpur Sikri. Known as a ‘ghost city’, this red sandstone town was abandoned due to lack of water in 1585. This afternoon our journey takes us to Agra Fort, a magnificent structure that dominates the skyline. Its red sandstone walls run for 2,5 km and contain many fairytale palaces and two beautifully preserved mosques. (B, L, D)

Day 08: Agra – Taj Mahal
Today is devoted to visiting the impossibly beautiful Taj Mahal, indisputably the most famous building in the world. Built in 1648 by Shah Jahan as a monument to his beloved wife, it took 22 years and 20,000 workers to complete. Nowhere else on the planet will you experience such a poignant architectural statement dedicated to the enduring nature of human love and inspirational artistry. (B, L, D)

Day 09: Agra / Varanasi
Varanasi simply has to be experienced to be understood. Our early morning arrival at Varanasi, one of India’s most sacred places, offers us the opportunity to discover what is believed to be the oldest continually inhabited city in the world. Situated on the banks of the Ganges, this cultural and religious centre, established between 3-5,000 years ago, is a focus for pilgrims who bathe in the sacred waters of Ganges. We are privileged to experience this ceremony before departing for a private river cruise. Our exploration of Varanasi is completed with a guided walk through the ancient streets of this remarkable city. (B, L, D)

Day 10: Varanasi / Darjeeling
Today we leave the Deccan Odyssey and embark on a spectacular journey to the hill of Darjeeling. We transfer either by bus (3-4 hours) on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), Toy Train, from Tindaria which takes about 6 hours. Traveling through awe-inspiring scenery we climb 7,400 feet to Ghum, the highest Indian railway station, where snow covered Kanchenchunga dominates the skyline, before dropping 600 feet into Darjeeling. Our locomotive zigzags and loops, gaining height to reach the cooler air of India’s most famous hill station. A packed lunch is served on the Darjeeling Train before arrival into colonial Darjeeling. We have dinner in the Hotel Windermere or Eglin, where we will stay for three nights.
Overnight: Windermere / Eglin, Darjeeling (3 nights) (B, L, D)

Day 11: Darjeeling
We awaken to the breathtaking scenery of Mount Kanchenchunga and this morning we can ride the DHR up to Batasia Loop and Ghum, climbing 600 feet during its 7 km journey. The senses reel as we experience the chaotic nature of roadside life passing within inches of colorful shops, houses and enthralling monasteries. Our afternoon tour of Darjeeling provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the elegant grandeur of colonial life, as well as the contrasting culture of a Tibetan refugee center and an absorbing visit to the Himalayan Institute where we learn about some of the famous mountaineering expeditions. (B, L, D)

Day 12: Darjeeling
This morning , weather permitting, we have a once in a lifetime opportunity to watch the sun rising over snow capped Himalayas, with Mount Everest rising 200 miles away on the horizon. Your optional early morning trip to Tiger Hill is a quintessential experience that captures the very character of one of our planet’s most overwhelming natural sites. This afternoon we visit a tea plantation and sample the freshest cup of tea most of us are ever likely to taste. (B, L, D)

Day 13: Darjeeling / Kolkata
After an English breakfast, we leave this tranquil haven to embark on a private transfer from Darjeeling to Bagdogra airport for a short flight to Kolkata. On the way you will enjoy panoramic views of the extensive tea plantations that unfurl around us. On arrival in Kolkata we transfer to the five-star Taj Bengal hotel for a two nights stay.
Overnight: Taj Bengal hotel, Kolkata (2 nights) (B, L, D)

Day 14: Kolkata
Kolkata is a sensory delight and cultural extravaganza that is constantly evolving. After breakfast, we spend the day exploring and absorbing the many sites that comprise this enthralling city that was once India’s capital. Our tour includes a visit to the Victoria Memorial, one of the finest and most prominent buildings in Kolkata which houses a museum dedicated to the history of India. We then move on to Dalhousie Square, the bustling hub of English colonial power and trade during the two centuries of British rule. Our final stop is South Park Cemetery, an atmospheric and still space between the glamour of modern day Kolkata. In the evening say goodbye to our fellow traveling companions who have shared this remarkable journey with us at our Farewell Dinner. (B, L, D)

Day 15: Kolkata / departure
After an incredible rail experience of India, we are transferred to the airport for our departure flight or join one of the many Bestway tour programs in India or the neighbouring countries. (B)

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Departure Dates
2010 English Speaking Departures Eastbound Mumbai to Kolkata Mar 29 & Sep 13 Westbound Kolkata to Mumbai Apr 02 & Sep 17 GUEST SPEAKER - FAROKH ENGINEER Farokh Engineer will be on board our 14th September 2009 Eastbound (Mumbai - Kolkata) Darjeeling Mail departure. Farokh Maneksha Engineer (born 2 February 1938 in Mumbai), is a former Indian cricketer who played 46 Tests for India and played first-class cricket for Bombay (Mumbai) in India and Lancashire in England. Engineer's active international career started in 1961 and continued to 1975, and he was India's first-choice wicket-keeper for most of that period. He was also a highly useful, stylish and very aggressive batsman. He is currently a match referee in the Indian Premier League.
Inclusions
Tour Price Includes Tour Price Does Not Include Hotel accommodation as mentioned International air-fare, airport taxes Meals as mentioned (B=Breakfast L=Lunch D=Dinner) Insurance & Visas Wine, drinks, tea & coffee with lunch & dinner   Personal cabin on private luxurious train   All sightseeing and transfers, including off train excursions   Services of local English speaking guide   Entrance fees to museums and sites included in the itinerary   Services of Tour manager and doctor on board   All gratuities
Tour Price
We accept payment in US $ (US Dollars), CA $ (Canadian Dollars) or equivalent EURO (for clients outside North America). Bestway Tours & Safaris offers conversion rate protection. Once full payment has been received, and no modification has been made to the tour itinerary, we will honour that rate. For complete payment procedures, please download Bestway_Payment_Info.pdf Note: to read this file you must have Adobe Acrobat.
2010 Double Occupancy Single Room Supplement Viceroy Class US $ 11395 US $ 5800 Maharaja Class US $ 17195  US $ 9200
Estimated International Airfare - International airfare is NOT included in this tour
Canada - West Coast N/A USA - West Coast US $ 1600 Canada - East Coast N/A USA - East Coast US $ 1400
Participants
Please call for details - 1.800.663.0844 or 1.604.264.7378
Notes
Customised Itinerary If you would like to have a tour on dates other than the above ones or with a customised itinerary, please contact us and we will be happy to work out an exclusive program for you. Foreign Language Departures Please contact us for information on French, German, Italian and Spanish speaking departures. You may e-mail us at bestway@bestway.com or call us at 604.264.7378. Residents of U.S.A./Canada may call us toll free at 1.800.663.0844.