East India - SOTC

Dear Customer,
Welcome to SOTC - Holidays of India.
India is today a hotspot tourist destination for people around
the world. An open museum of 32 lakh Sq. Km., India, the
land of distinct flavors provides an all-in-one experience with
its mesmerizing landscapes with holy rivers, snowcapped
Himalayas, endless desert and historic destinations. With every
region having its own individuality, a lifetime of memories
await you.
As an individual customer you get to opt for your favourite
destination and enjoy its grandeur at your own pace. You will
benefit from tailor-made holiday packages designed by us to
suit your interests and requirements. You can take your pick
from the wider range of itineraries; select the category of
hotels for your stay and enjoy a variety of tours and excursions.
Happy Holidays!
Team SOTC
Contents
Enchanting Kashmir 8
Stunning Himachal 14
Magnificent Uttarakhand 20
Colours of Rajasthan 26
Majestic Maharashtra 34
Amazing Gujarat 42
Enticing East India 50
Scenic Orissa 58
Fascinating Madhya Pradesh 64
Charismatic Kerala 72
Captivating Karnataka 78
Dazzling Tamil Nadu 86
Splendid Bhutan 90
Prestine Nepal 94
How to Book 101
Holiday World Outlets 102

Great Holidays...
Great Memories

“We wanted a completely customized
trip to Leh and none of the tour operators
met our demands until we met SOTC
representatives. SOTC had prepared
a detailed itinerary to Leh, thereby
making our tour memorable. SOTC
had taken care of all the necessities like
accommodation, comfort travel from
one destination to the other, food, etc.
We had requested further changes to
the itinerary and it was done by our
coordinator without any hassles. This
gesture was very humble and we were
very obliged by the same.”
Mr. & Mrs. Joshi - Mumbai
“We would like to thank SOTC
Holidays of India for making our
holiday to Kashmir a truly memorable
experience. It was a well planned and
well organised holiday. The comfort
along with sightseeing and travel
arrangements especially reasonable
rates will always make us look forward
to travel with SOTC Holidays of India in
future as well.”
Mr. Vivekanand S. Kisarkar &
Family - Pune.
“Pratyusha and I wanted to thank you
for the wonderful & memorable trip to
Kerala. This was undoubtedly one of
the best vacations we have ever taken.
Your staff did a great job in securing
exquisite accommodations.
The itinerary and overall arrangement
of the trip was really good and
satisfactory. Thank you SOTC & team
for understanding our needs, well
done!”
Mr. Sharad Girjapurkar &
Mrs. Pratyusha - Bangalore
“Our tour went extremely well!
Everything was well organized. All the
private transfers were on time. The
hotels were very good.
Overall SOTC did an excellent job,
setting everything up. It was money
well spent! I will certainly recommend
SOTC to my friends and family and in
the future if we plan other such trips.
Thank you for putting together a well
organized and memorable trip for us.”
Mr. Mukesh Sharma & family - Noida.
“I wish to show my gratitude and
appreciation for the tour SOTC
arranged for us. The Himachal Delights
package tour was simply GREAT!!!
The arrangements were flawless, and
really appreciable. I wish to thank SOTC
for making our Honeymoon trip, a
memorable one.”
Mr. Vijay Raghunathan & Mrs. Vijay
Raghunathan - Bangalore
“This is the first time we have booked
any tour from SOTC and I am really
delighted by the service provided by
you. The hotel accommodation and
transportation was pretty good. The
rest of the tour was really fine and
looking forward to have another
engagement with the SOTC team in
coming future. Thanks to all of you.”
Mr. & Mrs. Narayan - Bangalore.

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Dal Lake
Enchanting
Kashmir
Kashmir is a multi-faceted diamond, changing its hues with the seasons and always
beautiful. Two major Himalayan ranges, the Great Himalayan Range and the Pir Panjal,
surround the landscape from the north and south respectively. They are the source
of great rivers, which flow down into the valleys, richly forested with orchards and
decorated by lily-laden lakes.
The Mughals aptly called Kashmir ‘Paradise on Earth’, when they journeyed across the
hot plains of India, to the valley’s cool environs in summer. Here they laid, with great
love and care, Srinagar’s many formal waterfront gardens now collectively known as
the Mughal Gardens. They also patronized the development of art and craft among the
people of Kashmir, leaving behind a heritage of exquisite artisanship among its people
and making the handicrafts of the land, prized gifts all over the world.
Srinagar
Gulmarg
Sonamarg
Pahalgam
Leh
Katra Patnitop
Jammu
8

Jammu
Jammu is the Duggar land where the
past still dwells. It is the land of grand
ancient temples and beautiful palaces,
all nestling in the foothills of the
Himalayas.
Jammu is justly famous for its temples.
In fact it is known as the city of temples,
which tends to overshadow its palaces,
forts, forests and powerful ziarats. If
Bahu Mata is the presiding deity of
Jammu, the Dargah of Peer Budhan Ali
Shah is the other shrine that protects
Jammuites.
The other major tourist attraction is the
Raghunath Temple Complex. There are
two charmingly contradictory aspects
to the city of Jammu which one can
see while shopping. For instance, in the
crowded streets of Raghunath Bazaar,
among the age-old dry fruit shops,
you’ll find designer boutiques that
display the very latest in fashion and
fashion accessories.
Vaishno Devi
61 Kms from Jammu and a 13 Kms
trek from Katra lies the Vaishno Devi
Temple. Sightseeing places over here
are mostly connected with Vaishno Devi
and include Raghunath Mandir, Kalka
Mandir and Bhumika Mandir. The other
places of sightseeing are the Shalimar
Park and the Chintamani Park.
Patnitop
Though not as popular as most other
hill stations, Patnitop is as beautiful
and serene. This famous meadow,
situated at an altitude of 1950 metres,
is surrounded by dense woods and the
lush greenery of the pines. An ideal
place for walks and picnics, one can
even indulge in pony rides along the
lesser known trails and camps.
Srinagar
In the heart of the Kashmir Valley lies
Srinagar, divided in two by the River
Jhelum. The beauty of the valley has
lured visitors for ages and it still bears
the hallmark of the Mughals.
One of the major tourist attractions, the
Dal Lake is a maze of intricate waterways
and channels, floating islands of
vegetation and houseboats that look so
firmly moored that they could almost be
islands and hotels on islands which look
like they could simply float away.
The waters of the lake are so clear
that swimming in them is quite a
refreshing experience. Places of interest
would include the Mughal Gardens
- Chashmashahi Bagh, Nishat Bagh,
Shalimar Bagh, the Dal & Nagin Lake,
and the Shakaracharya Temple.
Pahalgam
96 Kms east of Srinagar and 2400
metres in altitude, Pahalgam was initially
a shepherd’s village. Upland meadows
and hills covered with pine forests form
the backdrop of Pahalgam.
An ideal delight for trekkers, one can
also cultivate a new hobby of fishing in
Pahalgam. The Lidder River is divided
into three fishing belts, offering
bountiful opportunities for fishing.
Gulmarg
A huge shaped meadow with gently
undulating slopes, ringed by fir trees
and snow-capped peaks, is how one
would describe Gulmarg.
A nature lover’s delight, one can
generally hear the birds sing and the
sound of the wind blowing through
the pines. A heaven for trekkers, one
can trek the steep hills to the Seven
Springs and view one of the highest
peaks, Nanda Devi Peak. By December,
Gulmarg is a paradise for skiers, with
snow covering the lush meadows.
Sonamarg
This “Meadow of Gold” is a quiet valley
carved by the Sindh River and encircled
by placid lakes and awesome glaciers.
Lying at an altitude of 3000 metres, it is
located 80 Kms north-east of Srinagar.
The journey to Sonamarg itself is an
enchanting wonderland of nature’s
beauty.
Ladakh
Ladakh is a land abounding in
mesmerizing physical features, set in an
enormous and spectacular environment.
Bounded by two of the world’s mightiest
mountain ranges, the Karakoram in
the north and the Great Himalayas in
the south, it is traversed by two other
parallel chains, the Ladakh Range and
the Zanskar Range.
In geological terms, this is a young
land, formed a few million years ago.
Its basic contours, uplifted by tectonic
movements, have been modified over
the millennia by the process of erosion
due to wind and water, sculpted into
the form that we see now.
Today a high-altitude desert, sheltered
from the rain-bearing clouds of the
Indian monsoon by the barrier of the
Great Himalayas, Ladakh was once
covered by an extensive lake system,
the vestiges of which still exist on its
south-east plateaux of Rupshu and
Chushul, in the drainage basins or lakes
of Tso-moriri, Tso-kar and Pangong-tso.
But the main source of water is winter
snowfall.
Himalayas
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 9

Best of
Kashmir
To u r C o d e | I C L A 0 01
5 NIGHTS | 6 DAYS
Srinagar - Gulmarg - Sonamarg
- Pahalgam - Srinagar
Srinagar
Sonamarg
Pahalgam
Gulmarg
Valley - Kashmir
Day 1
Arrive Srinagar
Arrive in Srinagar, the lake city of Kashmir, located in the heart of
the Kashmir valley, at an altitude of 1,730 meters above sea level.
It is famous for its lakes, dotted with shikaras, and the Mughal
Gardens. Transfer to hotel. This afternoon visit the world famous
Mughal Gardens, built by Emperor Jehangir. Enjoy a “shikara ride”
on the picturesque Dal Lake. Overnight stay on houseboat/hotel.
Day 2
Srinagar - Gulmarg - Srinagar (56 Kms / 2 Hrs one way)
This morning proceed for a full day excursion to Gulmarg, the
“Meadow of Flowers”, situated at an altitude of 2,730 meters,
and a famous ski resort during the winters. Enjoy leisurely walks
along the lush green meadows of flowers with a backdrop of the
snow-capped mountains or enjoy an optional Gondola ride (Cable
Car). Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Srinagar - Pahalgam (94 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
You will be transferred by road to Pahalgam, the Valley of
Shepherds, situated at the confluence of the streams flowing
from Sheshnag Lake and the Lidder river, situated at 2,130 meters.
Arrive and proceed to your hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure to
explore the countryside on your own. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Pahalgam - Srinagar
This morning is at leisure. Later you will be transferred back to
Srinagar. Rest of the day is at leisure for shopping and your own
activities. Overnight stay on houseboat/hotel.
Day 6
Depart Srinagar
Transfer to airport for your flight back home.
Day 3
Srinagar - Sonamarg - Srinagar (85 Kms/ 3-4 Hrs one way)
Drive through the Sindh Valley, which presents yet another
spectacular facet of countryside in Kashmir. Situated at an
altitude of 2,730 meters, Sonamarg, the Meadow of Gold has, in
its backdrop, snowy mountains against a cerulean sky. Optionally,
visit Thajiwas Glacier, a major local attraction during the summer
months. Evening drive back to Srinagar. Overnight stay at hotel.
10

Grand
Kashmir
To u r C o d e | I C L A 0 02
9 NIGHTS | 10 DAYS
Jammu - Katra - Pahalgam -
Srinagar - Gulmarg -
Srinagar - Jammu
Srinagar
Sonamarg
Pahalgam
Gulmarg
Katra
Jammu
Dal Lake
Day 1
Arrive Jammu - Katra (48 Kms/1 hrs)
Arrive in Jammu. You will be met upon arrival and transferred to
Katra, a starting point for the holy Vaishno Devi pilgrimage. Arrive
and proceed to your hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 2
Katra - Vaishno Devi - Katra
Early morning begin your trek to visit the temple of Mata Vaishno
Devi. Full day for darshan and puja. And back to Katra in the
evening. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Katra - Pahalgam ( 150 Kms / 6-7 hrs)
Early this morning you will proceed by road to Pahalgam,
considered as a paradise on earth, arrive and proceed to your
hotel. Rest of the day is at your leisure for local sightseeing.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Pahalgam
This day is at leisure to explore this paradise on your own.
Overnight stay at hotel. (Local sightseeing on direct payment at
additional cost)
Day 5
Pahalgam - Srinagar (94 Kms / 3-4 hrs)
After breakfast you will be transferred to Srinagar, a unique city
known for its lakes dotted with shikaras and the Mughal Gardens.
Arrive and transfer to your deluxe houseboat by a shikara. This
afternoon you will visit the famous Mughal Gardens, the Shalimar,
Nishat and Chashmeshahi Gardens, known for their beautiful
landscapes and water fountains. Evening is at leisure. Overnight
stay on houseboat.
Day 6
Srinagar - Sonamarg - Srinagar (84 Kms/ 3-4 hrs one way)
This morning proceed on a day’s excursion to the picturesque valley
at Sonamarg, set amongst glaciers and placid lakes at an altitude
of 2,740 meters. Here you have a day to pursue your individual
interests, before returning to Srinagar. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7
Srinagar - Gulmarg (56 Kms / 2 hrs one way)
Today you will be transferred to Gulmarg by road. Arrive and proceed
to your hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. You may take a leisurely
walk through the forested hills of Gulmarg. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8
Gulmarg - Srinagar
Following a leisurely breakfast, you will be transferred back to
Srinagar, arrive and proceed to your hotel. Rest of the day is at
leisure for shopping and individual activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 9
Srinagar - Jammu (293 Kms / 9-10 hrs)
Early this morning you will transferred by road to Jammu, the
winter capital of Jammu & Kashmir. Arrive in Jammu and proceed
to your hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure or you may optionally
visit the famous Raghunath Mandir. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 10
Depart Jammu
Today you will be transferred to Jammu airport/railway station for
your journey back home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 11

Mystical
Leh
To u r C o d e | I C L A 0 0 3
6 N I G H T S | 7 DAY S
L e h - N u b r a Va l l e y -
U l e y t o p ko - L e h
Uleytopko Nubra Valley Leh
Leh
Day 1
Arrive Leh
Arrive in Leh (3,505 m), situated in the Indus valley covered with
stark awe inspiring mountains and the cold desert beyond. Transfer
to hotel and rest of the day is at leisure to acclimatize. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 2
Leh
Today you will proceed for a full day visit to the Shey palace, Thiksey
& Hemis Monastery, (all founded under the direct patronage of
members of the ruling Namgyal dynasty). You will also visit the Stok
Palace Museum. Rest of the evening is at your leisure. Overnight stay
at hotel.
Day 3
Leh - Nubra Valley (140 Kms / 5-6 hrs)
This morning you will drive to Nubra Valley enroute crossing the
Khardungla Pass, the world’s highest motorable road (18,000 feet).
Arrive and proceed to your camp. This afternoon you will visit the
Deskit Monastery and explore the sand dunes. Overnight stay at the
tented camp.
Day 5
Leh - Uleytopko (70 Kms/2-3 hrs)
Today you will be driven to Uleytopko enroute visit the Hall of Fame,
Magnetic Hill and Alchi monastery. Arrive and proceed to your
camp. Rest of the day is at leisure to go on small treks around the
Uleytopko. Overnight stay at camp.
Day 6
Uleytopko - Leh (70 Kms / 2-3 Hrs)
Today you will be transferred back to Leh by road enroute visit the
Liker Monastery. Rest of the day is at your leisure for shopping &
own activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7
Depart Leh
Transfer to airport for your journey back home.
Day 4
Nubra Valley - Leh
Following a breakfast you will drive back to Leh. Rest of the day is at
leisure for shopping and individual activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
12

Amazing
Ladakh
To u r C o d e | I C L A 0 0 4
6 N I G H T S | 7 DAY S
L e h - N u b r a Va l l e y -
P a n g o n g - L e h
Nubra Valley
Leh
Pangong
Ladakh
Day 1
Arrive Leh
Arrive at the Leh gateway to Ladakh, a land of barren landscapes
stretching from the crest of the Great Himalaya, across sections of
the Zanskar - Ladakh Range, to the heights of the Karakom, where
the lofty desert plains are dominated by snow capped mountains
and glacier. Transfer to hotel and rest of the day is at leisure to get
acclimatize. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Leh
Today you will proceed for a full day visit to the Shey palace, Thiksey
& Hemis Monastery and Stok Palace Museum. Rest of the evening is
at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Leh Nubra Valley (140 Kms / 3- 4 hrs)
This morning you will drive to Nubra Valley enroute crossing the
Khardungla Pass, the world’s highest motorable road (18,000 feet).
Arrive and proceed to your camp. This afternoon you will visit the
Deskit Monastery and explore the sand dunes. Overnight stay at
the tented camp.
Day 5
Leh - Pangong lake (160 Kms/ 4-5 hrs)
Today you will be driven to Pangong Lake situated at 14,000 feet
bisected by the international border between India and China, the
only salt water lake in Ladakh. Arrive and proceed to your camp/
hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure to walk around this picturesque
lake. Overnight stay at hotel / camp.
Day 6
Pangong Lake Leh
Today you will be transferred back to Leh by road. Rest of the day
is at your leisure for shopping and own activities. Overnight stay at
hotel.
Day 7
Depart Leh
Transfer to airport for your journey back home.
Day 4
Nubra Valley Leh
Following a breakfast you will drive back to Leh. Rest of the day is at your
leisure for shopping and individual activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 13

Himalayas
Stunning
Himachal
Nurtured by three rivers, Ravi, Beas and Sutlej, Himachal Pradesh is one of the most
beautiful states of India. Essentially a mountain state, it takes in the transition zone from
the plains to the high Himalayas. Hidden away from the heat and dust of the plains, this
state of remarkable beauty provides respite to the tourists from the summer heat.
People from different parts of India throng to the valleys of Himachal for relief from the
hot summer heat. The land offers tremendous seasonal variety. The state encompasses in
its fold, a series of magnificent valleys, towering peaks and glistening rivers crisscrossing
each other. There are lush fruits, orchids, ancient temples, magnificent monasteries,
green meadows and gurgling brooklets.
Dalhousie
Manali
Dharamshala
Kullu
Shimla
Chandigarh
14

Shimla
The former summer capital of the
British, Shimla is India’s largest and
most famous hill station. The attraction
of Shimla lies in its calm and tranquil
promenades, encircled with green
hills of fir and pine, mountain flowers
of quaint colours and charming old
British-style houses and buildings.
Sightseeing in Shimla would include
the Old Viceregal Lodge, the most
impressive colonial monument in Shimla
and the Jakhoo Temple, which offers a
panoramic view of the Himalayas.
Chail
Lying 45 Kms south-east of Shimla,
Chail is nestled amongst the towering
deodars and pines of the Shivalik
slopes. Once the summer capital of
the Maharaja of Patiala, it boasts of
the country’s highest cricket ground
and superbly commanding views of the
Himalayan snow-line.
Kufri
A tiny hill station located 19 Kms from
Shimla, Kufri is an ideal location for
hiking and skiing, with its beautiful
landscapes during the winter. The
scenic beauty of Kufri is what attracts
tourists the most. On a clear day, the
entire range of snow peaks, right from
Badrinath to Kedarnath in Uttaranchal
to Pir-Panjal in Kashmir, is a breathtaking
sight. Sightseeing would include a visit
to the Himalayan Nature Park and Indira
Tourist Park.
Manali
A small, picturesque hill town, Manali
is encircled on three sides by serene
mountains and some of the loveliest
meadows, orchards, rivers and terraced
fields. In this picture-perfect ultimate
romantic destination, the must-see
places would be the Tibetan Monastery,
the 450-year-old Hadimba Devi Temple
which has some excellent wood
carvings, the Handicraft centre, the
panoramic Solang Valley and the notto-be-missed
Rohtang Pass, which lies
at an altitude of 3,978 metres. Manali
is also a trailhead for a number of
interesting and popular treks.
Dharamshala
Dharamshala has a spectacular setting
along the Dhauladhar range, varying in
height from 1,250 metres. Set against
a backdrop of high peaks on three
sides with superb views of the Kangra
Valley and the Shivaliks, it offers some
beautiful scenery. Besides attracting
hordes of tourists for its scenery, it also
attracts Buddhist pilgrims as it was an
adopted home of the Dalai Lama in exile.
Places to visit in Dharamshala would be
McLeod Ganj and the Baijnath Temple -
one of the 12 Jyotirlingas located near
Dharamshala.
Dalhousie
Owing its name to Lord Dalhousie, once
a Governor General of Punjab, Dalhousie
is one of the serene hill stations of the
north, lying at an altitude of about
2,000 metres. Sightseeing in Dalhousie
would include the Martyr’s Memorial
at Panchpulla and Satdhara, the seven
springs.
Khajjiar
30 Kms out of Dalhousie, Khajjiar is a
large meadow fringed by pine trees
with a lake in the middle. Also called
Mini Switzerland, it has a golf course,
a golden domed Devi Temple and a 14 th
century Temple.
Nalagarh
Overlooking the Punjab plains, lies
Nalagarh, 60 Kms from Chandigarh,
towering above the scruffy ground
levels and below the Himalayan
foothills. Ideally a sit-back-and-relax
destination, it is an excellent base from
which to explore the less visited parts of
Himachal.
Himalayas
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 15

Delightful
Himachal
Tour Code | ICL A004
6 NIGHTS | 7 DAYS
Delhi - Shimla - Manali -
Chandigarh - Delhi
Chandigarh
Manali
Shimla
Himalayas
Delhi
Day 1
Delhi - Shimla (343 Kms / 8-9 hrs)
Arrive in Delhi and transfer by road to Shimla, the former summer
capital of British India and now capital of Himachal Pradesh. Set amidst
the snow-capped Shivalik mountain ranges, it offers a stunning view
of the mighty Himalayas. Upon arrival proceed to your hotel check-in.
Rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Shimla
This morning, you will visit Kufri, situated at an altitude of 2,500
metres, just an hour’s drive from Shimla and a popular ski resort
during the winter months. Later in the afternoon, enjoy a tour of
Shimla on foot. Explore the Jakhoo Hills - which offer a panoramic
view of Shimla town, the Viceregal Lodge and end the day by visiting
the Mall road. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Shimla - Manali (285 Kms / 7-8 hrs)
Today proceed to Manali, a picture-perfect hill resort at an altitude
of 1,929 metres. Set amidst pine-clad mountains which gradually
close in on both sides of the River Beas (nestled in their shade, as
though carved out of the primeval forest). Upon arrival proceed to
your hotel. Rest of the evening at your leisure. Overnight stay at
hotel.
Day 4
Manali
This morning, take a walking tour of Manali, visit the 450 year old
temple dedicated to Hadimba Devi - which has some excellent
woodcarving, the Tibetan Monastery and the Handicraft Centre.
Rest of the day is at your leisure or you may walk to the nearby
picturesque village of Vashisht, known for its hot sulphur springs.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Manali
This morning, you will visit the Solang Valley, which offers a
spectacular view of glaciers and snow-capped peaks and a place
not to be missed, is the Rohtang Pass, 51 Kms from Manali at an
altitude of 3,978 metres (subject to weather conditions and the
road being open). Rest of the day is at your leisure to relax or take a
stroll down the Mall road. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Manali - Chandigarh (313 Kms / 8-9 hrs)
This morning you will visit the Kullu valley, celebrated as the “Valley
of the Gods”. Later you will be transferred by road to Chandigarh.
Upon arrival proceed to your hotel. Evening is at your leisure.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7
Chandigarh - Delhi (247 Kms / 6-7 hrs)
Transfer by road to Delhi for your journey back home.
16

Exotic
Himachal
Tour Code | ICL A0006
7 NIGHTS | 8 DAYS
Delhi - Chandigarh - Manali -
Shimla - Par wanoo - Delhi
Chandigarh
Manali
Shimla
Parwanoo
Shimla Town
Delhi
Day 1
Delhi - Chandigarh (247 Kms / 6-7 hrs)
Arrive in Delhi and transfer to Chandigarh, situated in the valley
surrounded by the Shivalik Hills that hem the great Himalayas.
Arrive and proceed to your hotel. Later this afternoon visit the
Pinjore Gardens, a traditional Moghul style garden, created in the
17 th century, then proceed to the Rock Garden, created by putting
together the fossils of ancient lifeforms found in the Shivalik Hills
and by recycled waste material. Rest of the evening is at your leisure.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Chandigarh - Manali (313 Kms / 7-8 hrs)
This morning, you will be transferred by road to Manali, a pictureperfect
hill resort at an altitude of 1,929 metres. Set amidst pineclad
mountains which gradually close in on both sides of the Beas,
(which nestles in their shade, as though carved out of primeval
forest). Upon arrival proceed to your hotel. Rest of the evening at
your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Manali
This morning take a walking tour of Manali, visit the 450 year old
temple dedicated to Hadimba Devi - which has some excellent
woodcarving, the Tibetan Monastery and the Handicraft Center.
Rest of the day is at leisure or optionally you may walk to the nearby
picturesque village of Vashisht, known for its hot sulphur springs.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Manali
This morning you will visit the Solang Valley, which offers a
spectacular view of glaciers and snow-capped peaks. A place not
to be missed is the Rohtang Pass, 51 Kms from Manali at an altitude
of 3,978 meters (subject to weather conditions and the road being
open). Rest of the day is at your leisure to take a stroll down the Mall
Road. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Manali - Shimla (285 Kms / 7-8 hrs)
This morning, you will visit the Kullu valley, celebrated as the “Valley
of the Gods”. Later you will be transferred by road to Shimla, the
former summer capital of the British and India’s premier hill station.
Arrive and proceed to your hotel, rest of the day is at your leisure.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Shimla
This morning you will visit Kufri, situated at an altitude of 2,500
meters, just an hour’s drive from Shimla and a popular ski resort
during the winter months. Later this afternoon, take a walking tour
of Shimla, visit the Jakhoo Hills, which offer a panoramic view of
Shimla town, the Vice regal Lodge and later walk down the Mall
road. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7
Shimla - Parwanoo (100 Kms / 2-3 hrs)
Following a leisurely breakfast, you will proceed to Parwanoo,
situated majestically at a height of 5,000 feet in the lap of the
Shivalik ranges, offering some stunning views. Arrive and proceed
to your resort. Rest of the day is at your leisure for individual
activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8
Parwanoo - Delhi (285 Kms / 7-8 hrs)
Early this morning you will be transferred by road to Delhi for your
journey back home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 17

Splendid
North
Tour Code | ICL A005
6 NIGHTS | 7 DAYS
Dharamshala - Khajjiar -
Dalhousie
Jammu
Khajjiar
Dalhousie
Dharamshala
Himalayas
Day 1
Jammu - Dharamshala (215 Kms / 4-5 hrs)
Arrive in Jammu. Transfer by road to Dharamshala, the principal
township of the Kangra Valley region. It is magnificently set with
the background of the Dhauladhar mountains. Upon arrival
proceed to your hotel. Rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 2
Dharamshala
This morning proceed on a half day excursion to the Baijnath
Temple, home to one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Later in the afternoon,
you will visit the Tibetan Monastery in McLeod Ganj - a seat of
the Tibetan spiritual leader, Dalai Lama. Rest of the day is at your
leisure to explore the local Tibetan markets at McLeod Ganj.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Dharamshala - Khajjiar (240 Kms / 6-7 hrs)
Today you will be transferred by road to Khajjiar, popularly known
as “Mini Switzerland” for its snow-capped mountains and pine
forest. Upon arrival proceed to your resort. Rest of the evening is
at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Khajjiar
The day is at your leisure to explore the beautiful surroundings
of Khajjiar - go for leisurely walks through the wooded hills and
sprawling lawns. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Khajjiar - Dalhousie (30 Kms / 1 Hr)
Today you will proceed by road to Dalhousie, spread over five hills,
ranging from 1,600 - 2,400 metres, offering a breathtaking view
of the Dhauladhar mountain ranges. Rest of the day is at your
leisure to stroll and explore the Mall road. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Dalhousie
In the morning, you proceed on a scenic walk to Satdhara (seven
springs), said to contain mica and medicinal properties (4 Kms /
1 Hr). Continue your walk to the Martyr’s Memorial at Panchpula
(five bridges). Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7
Transfer to Jammu (190 Kms / 4-5 hrs) or Pathankot
(170 Kms / 4-5 hrs)
Transfer to Jammu airport / railway station for your journey back
home.
18

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Uttarakhand
Magnificent
Uttarakhand
A land of celestial beauty, blessed with magnificent glaciers, majestic, snow-clad
mountains, gigantic peaks, valleys of flowers, skiing slopes and dense forest, this “Abode
of the Gods” includes many shrines and places of pilgrimage: Chardhams, the four most
sacred and revered Hindu temples; Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri are
nestled in the mighty mountains.
A picturesque state, with a breathtaking and panoramic view of the Himalayas,
Uttarakhand promises a visit full of amazing and unforgettable moments.
Mussorie
Rishikesh
Haridwar
Corbett
Kashipur
Rudraprayag
Ranikhet
Almora
Nainital
20

Corbett National Park
One of India’s premier wildlife reserves,
named after its founder, Jim Corbett.
It is notable not only for its rich and
varied wildlife but also for its scenic
charm and magnificent view. Corbett
is renowned as a haven for tigers, but
other animals also add to its attraction
like leopards, jungle cats, fishing cats,
Himalayan black bears and elephants. A
paradise for nature lovers, the Corbett
Jungle Park has 110 species of trees, 51
species of shrubs and over 33 species of
bamboo.
Nainital
Set around a small lake, this 100
year old hill station is known for its
mountains, silhouetted against the
sky, streams rippling through the
forests and the placid lake reflecting
the changing panorama of nature.
Called the “Switzerland of Asia” due
to the number of lakes present, it is an
excellent spot for boating and fishing.
The few places of interest would include
the Naina Devi Temple, the Mall Road,
the State Astronomical Observatory and
the Naini Lake.
Kausani
52 Kms northwest of Almora lies
Kausani, a quiet hill resort. Known for
the Himalayan snow-capped peaks that
stand in a stately row of over 300 metres
of majestic glory, one is certain to be
dazzled when the peaks turn into rich
crimson and gold at sunrise and sunset
respectively. The resort is renowned as
an ideal place of retreat and has several
ashrams. Influenced by the teachings of
Mahatma Gandhi, one could still catch
a glimpse of a spinning wheel in a lot
of homes.
Haridwar
Lying at the base of the Shivalik Hills, the
holy river Ganga passes through its last
gorge and begins a 2000 Kms journey
across the plains. One of the seven
holy cities of the Hindus, it is believed
that Vishnu has sanctified this place
by placing his footprint on the river
bank. This belief has hordes of pilgrims
coming to take a dip in the holy waters,
to wash off their sins.
Almora
66 Kms from Nainital, Almora occupies
a picturesque horseshoe-shaped ridge.
Offering a healthy selection of treks, it
combines the pleasures of sightseeing
with the spirit of adventure.
Ranikhet
The scattered town of Ranikhet is
one of the most pleasant hill stations
of Uttarakhand, 50 Kms away from
Almora. Unrivalled for its panoramic
view of the western Himalayas, it has
the added attraction of ancient temples,
pretty picnic spots and idyllic strolls.
Jim Corbett National Park
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 21

Classical
Kumaon
Tour Code | ICL A007
7 NIGHTS | 8 DAYS
Delhi - Corbett - Almora -
Nainital - Delhi
Corbett
Almora
Nainital
Nainital
Day 1
Delhi-Corbett (270 Kms / 6-7 hrs)
Arrive in Delhi and transfer by road to Corbett National Park,
nestled in the foothills of Himalayas and the first sanctuary to
come under Project Tiger. Proceed to your jungle resort and rest
of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Corbett
Early this morning visit the Jim Corbett National Park and enjoy
a game drive in the park by jeep/canter to view the most exotic
wildlife and the flora & fauna. Rest of the day is at your leisure.
Overnight stay at hotel. (Jeep/canter ride at additional cost to be
paid directly).
Day 3
Corbett - Almora (165 Kms / 4-5 hrs)
Today you will be driven to Almora, the most picturesque hill
town of Uttarakhand, situated in the Kumaon Hills at 5,400 ft.
Rest of the day is at your leisure to explore this scenic town on
your own. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Almora
This day is at leisure or alternatively take an excursion to Binsar
(30 Kms / 1 hour) or you may visit Ranikhet (50 Kms / 1-2 hrs).
Or simply relax in your mountain resort. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Almora - Nainital ( 70 Kms / 2 hrs)
Today you will be transferred by road to Nainital, a glittering jewel
in the Himalayan necklace, blessed with scenic natural splendours.
Arrive and proceed to your hotel and rest of the day is at your
leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Nainital
This morning you will visit the various picturesque, “tals” (lakes)
and Naini Peak, the highest point in Nainital. Later walk around the
Naini Lake or enjoy an optional boat ride on the Lake. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 7
Nainital
This day is at leisure or optionally visit Ramgarh (25 Kms / 1 Hr),
“the fruit basket” of Kumaon. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8
Nainital - Delhi (310 Kms / 8 - 9 hrs)
Early in the morning you will be transferred by road to Delhi for
your journey back home.
22

Glimpses of the
Himalayas
Tour Code | ICL A0009
8 NIGHTS | 9 DAYS
Delhi - Mussorie - Corbett -
Binsar - Nainital - Delhi
Mussorie
Corbett Ranikhet
Binsar
Nainital
Jim Corbett National Park
Day 1
Delhi - Mussorie (280 Kms / 7-8 hrs)
Arrive in Delhi and you will be transferred by road to Mussorie,
situated at an altitude of 2,000 meters, offering breathtaking
views of snow clad Himalayan peaks of the western Garhwal as
well as the Doon valley. Proceed to your hotel. Rest of the day at
your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Mussorie
You will proceed on a local sightseeing tour of Mussorie, visit
Kempty Falls, Tibetan Monastery and lastly the Gun Hill situated on
the Mall road offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Enjoy
an optional cable car ride at the Gun Hills. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Mussorie - Corbett (210 Kms / 6-7 hrs)
Today you will be transferred by road to Corbett National Park,
nestled in the foot hills of Himalaya and the first sanctuary to come
under Project Tiger. Proceed to your jungle resort and rest of the
day at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Corbett - Binsar (180 Kms / 5-6 hrs)
Early this morning visit Jim Corbett National park and enjoy a game
drive in the park by jeep/canter to view most exotic wildlife and the
flora & fauna. After breakfast, you will be transferred by road to
Binsar, former capital of Chand Rajas Rulers of Almora. Arrive and
proceed to your hotel, rest of the day is at your leisure to explore
this charming hill station. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Binsar
This day is at leisure, you will have an opportunity to see the
panoramic views of the Himalayas. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Binsar - Almora - Ranikhet - Nainital (140 Kms / 4-5 hrs)
Transfer by road to Nainital, a scenic lake district of Uttaranchal.
Enroute to Nainital, you will stop to visit Almora, a charming town
situated in the Kumaon Hills, later you will visit Ranikhet, a pristine hill
town of Uttarakhand. This evening visit the picturesque Naini lake,
enjoy an optional boat ride on the Naini lake. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7
Nainital
Today you will proceed for a excursion to visit Bhimtal and
Naukuchiatal, the most beautiful lakes in Nainital district set on the
backdrop of the snow-capped mountain. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8
Nainital
This day is at leisure for shopping and individual activities. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 9
Nainital - Delhi (310 Kms / 7-8 hrs)
Early morning you will be transferred back to Delhi by road. Arrive
Delhi and proceed to airport/railway station for your journey back
home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 23

Exotic
Kumaon
Tour Code | ICL A0010
9 NIGHTS | 10 DAYS
Delhi - Corbett - Nainital
- Kusani - Rudraprayag -
Mussorie - Delhi
Mussorie Binsar
Rudraprayag
Corbett
Nainital
Kashipur
Nainital
Day 1
Delhi - Corbett (270 Kms / 6-7 hrs)
Arrive in Delhi and drive to India’s first national tiger reserve, the
Corbett National Park. Arrive and proceed to your jungle resort.
Rest of the day is at your leisure for individual activities. Overnight
stay at resort.
Day 2
Corbett
Early this morning enjoy a game drive in the park by jeep / canter
to view some of the most exotic wildlife and the flora & fauna. This
afternoon you may try your luck again to sight a tiger. Overnight
stay at resort. (Jeep / canter ride at additional cost to be paid
directly)
Day 3
Corbett - Nainital (116 Kms / 2-3 hrs)
This morning proceed by road to Nainital, set amidst high ridges,
thickly clothed in forests of pines and deciduous trees. Arrive and
proceed to your hotel. In the evening, walk around the picturesque
Naini Lake or enjoy an optional cable car ride or boating in the
Lake. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Nainital
Today you will see some of the most scenic lakes of Uttarakhand.
Visit Bhimtal, at an altitude of 1,370 meters where you can also
see the 17 th century Bhimeshwar temple and drive another 4
Kms to visit Naukuchiatal, at an altitude of 1,220 meters. Rest of
the day is at your leisure for shopping and individual activities.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Nainital - Kausani (117 Kms / 3-4 hrs)
This morning you will be transferred to Kausani, where the
grandeur of the Himalayan scenery comes alive. This afternoon,
visit the 13 th century temple of Baijnath. In the evening witness
the spectacular sunset over the Nanda Devi in the Himalayan
range. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Kausani - Rudraprayag (160 Kms / 6-7 hrs)
This morning you will drive to Rudraprayag and capture the
amazing nature’s bounties tucked away in the hills. The Himalayas,
with gushing rivers, majestic snow-clad peaks, enchanting lakes
and a rich plethora of flora and fauna, is described as the “Abode
of the Gods”. Arrive and proceed to your hotel. Rest of the day
is at your leisure for individual activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
24

Naini Lake, Nainital
Day 7
Rudraprayag
This day is at leisure to visit the temples in and around Rudraprayag
or simply relax in your hotel and admire the picturesque locales of
Rudraprayag. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8
Rudraprayag - Mussorie (190 Kms / 6-7 hrs)
Today you will be transferred to Mussorie, the Queen of Hill
Stations. Enroute you will pass Dhanaulti and the Kempty
waterfalls. Arrive and proceed to your hotel. Rest of the evening is
at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 9
Mussorie
This day is at leisure to explore this charming hill station of
Garhwal on your own, or simply take a stroll on the Mall Road,
the most happening place in Mussorie. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 10
Mussorie - Delhi (280 Kms / 7- 8 hrs)
Today you will be transferred to New Delhi, arrive and proceed to
airport / railway station for your journey back home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 25

Jal Mahal
Colours of
Rajasthan
Rajasthan is where all the country’s similes and metaphors appear to have come together
to create a visual extravaganza. Majestic palaces and rugged forts, spectacular deserts,
wooded hills and tranquil lakes, bustling towns and quiet villages, amazing flora & fauna
and of course, the colourful and vibrant people of Rajasthan form an intricate tapestry
of mysticism, grandeur and rusticity.
Behind the breathtaking beautiful facade, expect to find contradictions to the ordinary
and mundane aspects of vacationing. Wherever you travel, particularly when you escape
from the popular tourist destinations, you will come across the unexpected, whether it is
a local fair or a bustling bazaar or mind-blowing architectural wonders. The mood and
the rhythm of the countryside changes from one region to another, and from season to
season. Rajasthan is a land of magical fantasies which will be a beautiful memory for a
lifetime. Come and discover it for yourself.
Bikaner
Jaisalmer
Jaipur
Jodhpur
Udaipur
26

Ajmer
Located 131 Kms from Jaipur, Ajmer is
most famous as a former home of Sufi
Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chisti, founder
of the Chisti order. It is believed that
seven visits to Chisti’s Dargah or tomb
is equivalent to a single visit to Mecca.
Bikaner
Another desert town of Rajasthan,
Bikaner has a rather unspoilt feel about
it. Though it is not as hyped as Jaisalmer,
its neighbour, it is worth a visit. Among
the various places one must visit is the
Junagarh Fort, the only fort to be built
on ground level in Rajasthan, the camel
breeding farm and the Rat Temple near
Deshnok. Also a must are the Bikaner
markets for famous namkeens and
bhujias.
Jaipur
The capital of Rajasthan, founded by
Maharaja Jai Singh II in the year 1727,
is where you enjoy Rajput hospitality at
its best. Planned on the lines of “Shilpa
Shastra” it is tempered with influences
of the Mughal and Jain architecture of
those times. It is known as the Pink city,
as it was painted pink in honour of Prince
Albert, who visited it in 1853. A typical
city tour of Jaipur would include a visit
to the signature building of Jaipur, the
Hawa Mahal, the magnificent city palace
and Museum, the unique Jantar Mantar
Observatory and a unforgettable visit to
the Amber Fort riding over the back of a
gaily adorned elephant. Jaipur is also a
paradise for shoppers, with the best tie
and dye bandhnis, blankets, shoes and
jewellery. Welcome to Jaipur’s bazaars.
Jodhpur
On the eastern fringe of the Thar
Desert lies the Blue City of Jodhpur, the
second largest city of Rajasthan. The
pride of Jodhpur lies in the imposing
Mehrangarh Fort, that stands on a low
range of sandstone hills, with a 10 Kms
long stone wall and eight immense
gates. However the other places worth
a visit are the Jaswant Thada, a white
marble cenotaph to Maharaja Jaswant
Singh II and the Sardar Market, with its
unique clock tower. Also recommended
is a visit to the Bishnoi village, where
time has stood still and one can view
the rustic Rajasthani life. The Bishnois
are known for their reverence for
wildlife and you might even see a few
black bucks and antelopes.
Jaisalmer
The oasis of Jaisal lies in the west
most remote corner of Rajasthan.
The approach to Jaisalmer, across the
hot and barren desert with its golden
sandstone town walls, gives one an
incredible medieval feel. Places to visit
would be the Jaisalmer Fort, the Havelis
- the most prominent one being the
Patwon-ki-Haveli and the Gadisar Lake.
However, the main attraction lies in a
visit to the sand dunes at sunset.
Udaipur
Fondly called the “Venice of the East”,
Udaipur is probably one of the most
romantic cities of India, with its fairy
tale collection of exotic gardens, mirrorcalm
lakes and fantasy island palaces.
The must visit places in Udaipur would
be the City Palace, the Jagdish temple,
Bharatiya Lok Kala (Udaipur’s folk
museum) and the Saheliyon-ki-bari
(Garden of the Maidens).
Pushkar
Pushkar is also known for its world
famous cattle fair, normally held in the
Hindu month Kartika, which is around
Oct-Nov. It is commonly known as
the Camel fair. Bringing several types
of cattle to the pilgrimage, villagers
come to sell camels, horses, elephants,
cattle and other livestock. 15 Kms away
from Ajmer lies Pushkar, famous for its
temples. The Brahma Temple and the
Pushkar Lake is believed to mark the
spot where the lotus thrown by Brahma
landed and which now draws pilgrims in
hordes to take a dip in the holy waters.
Udaipur
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 27

Golden
Triangle
Tour Code | ICL A011
4 Nights | 5 Days
Delhi - Agra - Jaipur
Jaipur
Delhi
Agra
Hawa Mahal
Day 1
Arrive Delhi
Arrive in Delhi. Transfer to your hotel. Afternoon proceed on a
sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi. Visit the Qutub Minar -
the tallest stone tower in India, and drive past the imposing India
Gate and the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Later visit the Raj Ghat and drive
past the Red Fort and Jama Masjid in Old Delhi. Evening is at
leisure. You may optionally visit the Red Fort for the sound and
light show. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Delhi - Agra (206 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Today drive to the Mughal city of Agra. Upon arrival, check-in
to your hotel. Afternoon visit to the Agra Fort, built by the great
Emperor Akbar, and the Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in
memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Evening is at leisure
for shopping and individual activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
Note: The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.
Day 4
Jaipur
This morning make an ascent to the 16 th century Amber Fort
riding on the back of an elephant. Drive past the Hawa Mahal, the
“Palace of Winds”. In the afternoon, you will visit the city palace
and museum, walk to the adjacent Jantar Mantar, an ancient
astronomical observatory. Rest of the evening is at your leisure.
Overnight stay at hotel (Elephant ride at additional cost on direct
payment).
Day 5
Depart Jaipur
Transfer to airport / railway station or transfer by road to Delhi
(256 Kms / 5-6 hrs) for your journey back home.
Day 3
Agra - Jaipur (221 Kms / 5 Hrs)
This morning drive to the Pink City of Jaipur, enroute visit Fatehpur
Sikri, the deserted red sandstone city built by the Mughal Emperor
Akbar. Upon arrival, proceed to your hotel and rest of the day is at
leisure. This evening you may optionally visit Chokhi Dhani, an ethnic
Rajasthani village on the outskirts of Jaipur. Overnight stay at hotel.
28

Land of the
Rajputs
Tour Code | ICL A012
6 Nights | 7 Days
Jaipur - Jodhpur - Udaipur
Jodhpur
Jaipur
Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
Udaipur
Day 1
Arrive Jaipur
Arrive in Jaipur, famously known as the Pink City. Transfer to your
hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure to explore the bustling, colourful
local markets of Jaipur on your own. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Jaipur
This morning make an ascent to the 16 th century Amber Fort, on
the back of an elephant. Enroute, stop at the Hawa Mahal. Later
this afternoon visit the city palace and walk across to the Jantar
Mantar, an astronomical observatory built in the 17 th century. Rest
of the evening is at leisure for shopping and individual activities.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Jaipur - Jodhpur (332 Kms / 7 hrs)
Early this morning you will drive to Jodhpur, enroute stop to visit
the holy towns of Pushkar and Ajmer. Visit the Pushkar Lake and
the Brahma temple in Pushkar. In Ajmer, visit the revered Dargah
of Salim Chisti. Evening is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Jodhpur
This morning visit the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, sprawled across
a 125 metre high hill. It is the most impressive and formidable fort
in Rajasthan. Proceed further to Jaswant Thada, a cluster of royal
cenotaphs built in 1899. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Jodhpur - Udaipur (294 Kms / 6-7 hrs)
Drive to Udaipur, capital of the former princely state of Mewar.
Enroute stop to visit the world famous, exquisitely carved
Ranakpur Jain Temple, known for its 1444-pillar hall. Rest of the
day is at leisure to explore the lake city of Udaipur on your own.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Udaipur
This morning visit the city palace - the largest palace complex in
Rajasthan, the Jagdish Temple and the Museum. Lastly visit the
Sahelion Ki Bari or “Garden of the Maidens”. Overnight stay at
hotel.
Day 7
Depart Udaipur
Transfer to airport / railway station for your journey back home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 29

Forts and Palaces of
Rajasthan
Tour Code | ICL A013
7 NIGHTS | 8 DAYS
Jaipur - Bikaner - Jaisalmer -
Jodhpur - Udaipur
Jaisalmer
Bikaner
Jodhpur
Jaipur
Sand Dunes, Jaisalmer
Udaipur
Day 1
Arrive Jaipur
Arrive in Jaipur and transfer to hotel. This afternoon proceed on a
city tour of Jaipur - visit the city palace, an overwhelming complex
of exquisite palaces, gardens and courtyards, the Palace Museum
which houses collections of rare manuscripts, armoury, costumes,
carpets and miniature paintings. Walk to the adjacent Jantar
Mantar, astronomical observatory 17 th century. Lastly, drive past
the Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Jaipur
This morning drive to the outskirts of Jaipur city to visit the Amber
Fort, an ancient capital of Jaipur where you will see magnificent
palaces with walls covered in mirrored mosaics. Enjoy an elephant
ride at the Amber Fort. Rest of the day is at leisure for shopping
and own activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Jaipur - Bikaner (321 Kms / 7-8 hrs)
Early morning, drive to the imposing walled city of Bikaner.
Later, you will visit the unusual Junagarh Fort. Unlike the major
forts of Rajasthan, which are on hilltops, the Junagarh Fort was
built on the desert plains itself. Lastly visit the National Camel
Breeding Farm and see the incredible sight of a herd of camels
returning after grazing, with the spectacular desert sunset in the
background. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Bikaner - Jaisalmer (332 Kms / 7-8 hrs)
In the morning drive to Deshnok, to visit the Karni Mata Mandir.
Later proceed to the desert town of Jaisalmer. Evening is at your
leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Jaisalmer
In the morning visit Jaisalmer Fort, the only fort in India which
has a population of a thousand people living within its walls.
Later visit the countless havelis, spread across Jaisalmer, which are
reputed as the city’s real showpieces. In the evening visit the sand
dunes and witness a spectacular sunset over the dunes. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 6
Jaisalmer - Jodhpur (285 Kms / 5-6 hrs)
This morning drive to the Blue City of Jodhpur. Afternoon visit
the imposing Mehrangarh Fort. Proceed further to the Jaswant
Thada - the royal cenotaph in white marble, built in 1899 A.D. in
memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh (II). Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7
Jodhpur - Udaipur (294 Kms / 6-7 hrs)
Today you will drive to Udaipur, enroute stopping at Ranakpur,
a famous Jain pilgrimage destination known for its exquisitely
carved Jain temple with its most famous hall of 1444 pillars.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8
Depart Udaipur
This morning proceed for a sightseeing tour of Udaipur, visiting
the City Palace, the Museum, the Jagdish Temple and lastly, the
“Sahelion Ki Bari” or “Garden of the Maidens”. Later this evening
proceed to the airport / railway station for your journey back
home.
30

Vibrant
Rajasthan
Tour Code | ICL A014
5 NIGHTS | 6 DAYS
Jodhpur - Jaisalmer - Manvar
Jodhpur
Jaisalmer
Manvar
Jodhpur
Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
Day 1
Arrive Jodhpur
Arrive in Jodhpur, the Blue City of Rajasthan and gateway to the
great Indian desert. You will be met upon arrival and transferred
to your hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure for individual activities.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Jodhpur
This morning you will proceed for a sightseeing tour of Jodhpur,
visiting the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, sprawled across a 125
meter high hill, the most impressive and formidable fort in fortstudded
Rajasthan. Continue to Jaswant Thada, a cluster of royal
marble cenotaphs built in 1899 and lastly visit the Umaid Bhavan
Palace and Museum. Rest of the day is at your leisure for shopping
and individual activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Jodhpur - Jaisalmer (285 Kms / 5-6 hrs)
Drive to the Golden City of Jaisalmer. Arrive and proceed to your
hotel. Rest of the day is at your leisure to explore this city on your
own. Overnight stay at hotel.
the countless havelis, spread across Jaisalmer, which are reputed
as the city’s real showpieces. Later in the evening visit the sand
dunes to witness a spectacular sunset over the dunes. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 5
Jaisalmer - Manvar (185 Kms / 3-4 hrs)
Today you will proceed to Manvar, an ethnic resort in the heart of
the Thar Desert and is 4 Kms away from the beautiful sand dunes
between Jaisalmer and Jodhpur. Arrive and proceed to your
beautiful desert resort/camp. Rest of the day is at your leisure.
Relax or take an optional camel ride on the sand dunes. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 6
Manvar - Jodhpur (100 Kms / 2 hrs)
Today you will be transferred to Jodhpur, arrive and proceed to
airport / railway station for your journey back home.
Day 4
Jaisalmer
Morning visit to the Jaisalmer Fort, the only fort in India which has
a population of a thousand people living within its walls. Later see
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 31

Taj Mahal &
Rajasthan
Tour Code | ICL A015
9 NIGHTS | 10 DAYS
Delhi - Agra - Jaipur -
Jodhpur - Udaipur
Jaisalmer
Bikaner
Manvar
Jodhpur
Jaipur
Delhi
Agra
Taj Mahal, Agra
Udaipur
Day 1
Arrive Delhi
Arrive in Delhi and transfer to your hotel, rest of the day is at
leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Delhi
Today you will proceed for a full day sightseeing tour of Old and
New Delhi. Visit the magnificent Red Fort, overlooking the river
Jamuna. The tour continues to the Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s
largest mosques, to be viewed from the outside. Later take a joy
ride on a cycle rickshaw through the narrow, bustling lanes of
Chandni Chowk. Later visit Qutab Minar, the tallest stone tower in
India. The tour also includes a drive past the imposing India Gate,
the Parliament building and the Rastrapati Bhavan, the President’s
residence. Evening is at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Delhi - Agra (206 Kms / 3-4 hrs)
Today you will drive to the Mughal city, Agra. Arrive and check
into your hotel. This afternoon, visit the Agra Fort, built by
Emperor Akbar. Proceed to the Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah
Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. This evening
is at leisure for shopping and individual activities. Overnight stay
at hotel. Note: The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.
Day 4
Agra - Jaipur (221 Kms / 5-6 hrs)
This morning you will drive to the Pink City of Jaipur (221 Kms/
5 hrs). Enroute you will visit Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted red
sandstone city built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Proceed to
your hotel. Rest of the day is at your leisure. Later this evening
you will visit Chokhi Dhani, an ethnic Rajasthani village on the
outskirts of Jaipur. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Jaipur
This morning visit the Amber Fort, built in the 16 th century and
enjoy an optional elephant ride at Amber. Drive past the Hawa
Mahal, “Palace of Winds”. In the afternoon you will visit the city
palace and Museum and walk to the adjacent Jantar Mantar a
17 th century astronomical observatory. Rest of the evening at your
leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Jaipur - Jodhpur (332 Kms / 7 hrs)
Early this morning you will drive to Jodhpur, enroute you will stop
to visit the holy towns of Pushkar and Ajmer. Visit the Pushkar Lake
and a Brahma Temple in Pushkar, while in Ajmer visit the revered
Dargah of Salim Chisti. Evening is at your leisure. Overnight stay
at hotel.
32

City Palace, Udaipur
Day 7
Jodhpur
This morning you will visit the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, sprawled
across a 125 meter high hill, the most impressive and formidable
fort in fort-studded Rajasthan, continue to Jaswant Thada, a
cluster of royal marble cenotaphs built in 1899. Rest of the day is
at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8
Jodhpur - Udaipur (294 Kms / 6-7 hrs)
Drive to Udaipur, capital of the former princely state of Mewar.
Enroute stop to visit the world famous, exquisitely carved
Ranakpur Jain Temple, known for its 1444 pillar hall. Rest of
the day is at your leisure to explore the Lake city on your own.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 9
Udaipur
Morning visit the City Palace, the largest palace complex in
Rajasthan. Proceed to the Jagdish Temple and Museum, lastly
visit the “Sahelion ki Bari” or “Garden of the Maiden” of Honour.
In the evening enjoy a boat ride on the picturesque Pichola lake
(subject to water level). Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 10
Depart Udaipur
Transfer to Airport / Railway station for your journey back home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 33

Gateway of India, Mumbai
Majestic
Maharashtra
Welcome to Maharashtra. A land whose sheer size and diversity will stun you. Enjoy its
mountains that stretch out into the mists as far as the eye can see, innumerous forts
that stand proud and strong and scores of temples, sculpted into and out of basalt rock.
Its diverse and colourful cultures, woven into one gigantic quilt. Festivals that galvanise
the sleepy thousands into fervent motion and miles of silver, white beaches, stretched
out and inviting over the entire coast. Welcome to this vibrant and beautiful land.
Located in the northern center of peninsular India, Maharashtra is surrounded by the
Arabian sea in the west, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh in the north and the east and
Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh in the south.
Nagpur
Nashik
Shirdi
Aurangabad
Mumbai
Pune
Kolhapur
34

Mumbai
Welcome to the city that never sleeps!
Pulsating, alive, on the move, vibrant, fun
- this is Mumbai or as it is still frequently
referred to Bombay. The most modern
city in India that captures the spirit of the
changing pace set by liberalization and
modernization.
Once a cluster of seven islands, Mumbai
was presented to King Charles II in 1661
as part of the dowry when he married
Princess Catherine de Braganza of
Portugal. Over the years, as colonialism
gave way to independence, Mumbai has
transformed itself into an entity with
thriving markets, business houses and
many different communities reflecting
a cosmopolitan and trendy atmosphere
rarely seen elsewhere. On the surface,
it represents the ever-changing face of
today’s India.
Nagpur
The old capital of the Bhonsale rulers and
of the former Central Provinces, Nagpur
presents a fine blend of the old and new.
The region around Nagpur traditionally
known as Vidarbha, is noted for its
antiquity. Nagpur, the second capital of
Maharashtra, is a sprawling, seemingly
infinite metropolis and is India’s primary
transport hub with all the nation’s main
highways intersecting there. And at
the very centre of this national center is
Zero Mile, marked by the stone obelisk
that the British placed there, on whose
surface is an engraved list of cities (spelt
the old - fashioned way) with distances
to each of them.
Aurangabad
The gateway to the World Heritage
sites of Ajanta and Ellora, Aurangabad
is named after the Mughal emperor,
Aurangzeb. Lying along the right bank
of the Kham river, the city is the district
headquarters, which offers visitors all the
modern comforts and amenities.
Pune
Queen of the Deccan, Oxford of the
East and cultural capital of Maharashtra,
Pune is a city with a future that promises
to be as interesting as its history. Longstanding
bastion of the Maratha empire
and home to the legendary Raja Shivaji,
the Pune district is marked by magnificent
land and sea forts, testimony to its
glorious past. Surrounded by verdant
hills and beautiful lakes, Pune has a
temperate climate and is among the
greenest urban areas in the country.
The narrow winding roads of old Pune
offer an interesting contrast to the
open, spacious new city. However, Pune
retains the old-world charm and its
many quaint characteristics, including
the omnipresent cyclists, rickshaws and
a daily siesta hour that is taken very
seriously indeed.
Nashik
Proximity to many holy temples and
sites including the famous pilgrimage
centre of Shirdi and a long tryst with
India’s sacred past, has made Nashik a
confluence for the spiritually enlightened.
Mythology has it that Rama, the king of
Ayodhya, made Nashik his temporary
abode during the 14 years of his exile.
The poets Rishi Valmiki, Mahakavi
Kalidas and Bhavabhooti have paid rich
tributes to Nashik in many of their works.
Today, Nashik is a bustling township with
a blend of the ancient and the modern.
Scattered across the city are numerous
forts and majestic temples. It is part of
the green belt and is renowned for the
various fruits and vegetables it produces.
In fact the yield of grapes, strawberries
and onions in Nashik is amongst the
highest in the country.
Kolhapur
Arts, aristocracy and graciousness. A
legacy of valour combined with a culture
steeped in spiritualism, education and
modernism. Kolhapur with its myriad
images emerges as a city with a multifaceted
persona and a rich cultural,
historical and mythical past. Ancient
texts such as the Padmapurana and the
Skandapurana speak in glowing terms
of Karveer or Dakshin Kashi which is, in
fact modern-day Kolhapur on the banks
of river Panchaganga nestling among the
Sahyadri ranges. Kolhapur combines its
artistic past with dynamic present and is
a modern, industrial city.
Sindhudurg
Ideal especially for beach tourism,
Sindhudurg is well connected with
various parts of the country by the
Konkan Railway. Sprawling over an
area of 5,207 Sq. Kms, Sindhudurg
comprises of 7 provinces - Sawantwadi,
Vaibhavwadi, Kudal, Vengurla, Kankavli,
Devgad and Malvan. A beautifully
developed coastline, Malvan is famous
for the Sindhudurg Fort built by
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Vengurla’s
coastline is dotted with some of the
most exotic and virgin beaches in
Maharashtra. Kudal is a scenic town on
the river side. Sawantwadi erstwhile
the royal seat of the Bhonsale Dynasty,
is famous for handicraft items. Tarkarli,
situated at the confluence of the river
Karli and the Arabian Sea, is a quiet
scenic place. Amboli, engulfed by dense
forests and steep valleys has a tranquil
hill resort which is situated at an altitude
of 690 meters in the ruggedly sculpted
Sahyadris.
Murud Janjira
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 35

Highlights of
Maharashtra
Tour Code | ICL A016
6 NIGHTS | 7 DAYS
Mumbai - Nasik - Shirdi -
Aurangabad
Nashik
Shirdi Aurangabad
Mumbai
Ajanta Caves
Day 1
Arrive Mumbai
Arrive in Mumbai. Pulsating, alive, on-the-move, vibrant, fun - this
is Mumbai or as it is still frequently referred to - Bombay. The most
modern city in India, it captures the spirit of the changing pace set
by liberalization and modernization. You will be met upon arrival
and transferred to your hotel, rest of the evening is at your leisure.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Mumbai
This morning you will visit the Elephanta island by motorboat,
beautifully sculpted rock-cut temples believed to have been
created between 450 and 750 A.D., when the island was known
as Gharapuri, the Fortress City. After lunch you will begin your city
tour with a visit to the Gateway of India - the landmark of Mumbai,
proceed to Mani Bhavan (Mahatma Gandhi Memorial), you will
drive past Marine drive popularly called as the queen’s necklace,
visit Hanging Gardens built on a water reservoir. End your tour with
a visit to the Prince of Wales Museum, which boasts of a significant
collection of Indus valley artifacts some of them dating back to
more than 5000 years. Rest of the day is at leisure for shopping and
individual activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Mumbai - Nasik (180 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Early morning you will drive to Nashik, one of the holy Hindu cities and
one of the centers of Kumbhamela, which is held every 12 years. Arrive
and proceed to your hotel. In the afternoon, you will visit Ramkund,
built in 1696 by Chitrarao Khatarkar, proceed to Muktidham temple,
built in white Makrana marble continue your visit to Kalaram Mandir,
built in 1794 and is similar in its architectural design to the nearby
Trimbakeshwar temple. Lastly you will visit the Coin Museum, which
has a well documented record of the history of Indian numismatics.
Evening is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Nasik - Trimbakeshwar - Shirdi (130 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Today you will drive to Trimbakeshwar Temple (37 Kms / 1 Hr),
Trimbakeshwar enshrines one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to
Shiva and this one is considered to be the main Jyotirlinga, it is also
the source of the Godavari river. Later drive to Shirdi, the abode
of the great saint Sai Baba, the sacred town of Shirdi exudes an
immense sense of spirituality and mysticism, much in contrast to
its surprisingly tiny size of this town. Check-in to your hotel, rest of
the day is at your leisure for darshan and puja of Sri Satya Saibaba.
Overnight stay at hotel.
36

Ellora Caves
Day 5
Shirdi - Aurangabad (115 Kms / 3 Hrs)
In the early morning you may visit the temple again for Darshan
and Aarti. Later you will be transferred to Aurangabad, gateway to
the world renowned Ajanta and Ellora caves. Arrive and proceed
to hotel. This afternoon visit the Ellora caves (36 Kms / 1 Hr) -
cave temples of three religions, Hindu, Buddhist and Jain stand
next to one another. Of the 34 caves, the most remarkable is the
magnificent Kailas temple carved out of a mountainside, from a
single rock, an engineering marvel! Rest of the evening is at your
leisure. Overnight stay at hotel (Ellora caves are closed on Tuesdays).
Day 6
Aurangabad - Ajanta - Aurangabad
(106 Kms / 3 Hrs- one way)
Today you will proceed for a full day excursion to Ajanta Caves,
where you will be enthralled by a total of 30 show embellishments
including paintings and sculptures on the walls and ceilings. These
portray the life and miracles of the Buddha, the lives of kings and
the common people, of beautiful women, their jewellery and
hairstyles, all marked by great dignity and grace. Overnight stay at
hotel (Ajanta caves are closed on Mondays).
Day 7
Depart Aurangabad
You will be transferred to airport / railway station for your journey
back home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 37

Unexplored
Maharashtra
Tour Code | ICL A018
6 NIGHTS | 7 DAYS
Mumbai - Mahabaleshwar -
Kolhapur - Ratnagiri - Ganpatipule
- Chiplun Raigad - Mumbai
Mumbai
Raigad
Chiplun Mahabaleshwar
Ganpatipule
Ratnagiri
Kolhapur
Ganpatipule
Day 1
Mumbai - Mahabaleshwar (300 Kms / 6-7 Hrs)
Begin your holiday with a drive to Mahabaleshwar, Soaring peaks.
Breathtaking valleys. Lush flora. Cool and crisp mountain air. All this
is Mahabaleshwar. Proceed to your hotel, rest of the day is at your
leisure. In the evening visit the picturesque Venna lake, optionally
you may enjoy a boat ride. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Mahabaleshwar
This morning, you will visit Pratapgad, the pride of the Maratha
Empire. Built in 1656, it is a maze of ponds, chambers and long
dark walkways, some of which lead to trap doors that open to a
100 meter fall. Later you will visit Panchgani, where you’ll discover
the famous Table Land offering stunning views of the mighty
Sayhadri range, also visit the famous Mapro gardens for some fresh
strawberries. The evening is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Mahabaleshwar - Kolhapur (150 Kms / 3 Hrs)
Today you will drive to Kolhapur, Situated amidst lovely hills and held
in high esteem for the antiquity of its sacred shrine “Mahalaxmi”,
Kolhapur is known as “Dakshin Kashi” or Kashi of the south. This
afternoon you will visit the Mahalaxmi temple, a must visit when
you are in Kolhapur, This exquisitely carved temple draws millions
of pilgrims from all over India and is an important spiritual centre.
The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi or Amba Bai. Later
proceed to The New Palace, a royal palace partly converted into
an unforgettable museum, the New Palace has lush green parks,
a zoo and a picturesque lake to soothe tired souls. The museum
houses rare paintings and artifacts used by the royal family. Rest of
the evening is at your leisure for shopping and individual activities.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Kolhapur - Ratnagiri (140 Kms / 4 Hrs)
Ganpatipule (40 Kms / 1 hour)
In the morning you will drive from Kolhapur to Ganpatipule,
enroute you will stop at Ratnagiri, a charming seaside town, famous
for Alfonso mangoes, coconuts and jackfruits. Visit the Lokmanya
Tilak memorial, this is the birth place of Sri Lokmanya Tilak which
has been converted into a memorial maintained by the State
Archaeological Department. Photographs of important incidents in
the life of Lokmanya Tilak are preserved here, also visit the Ratnagiri
Fort and Theba Palace where the king of Burma was detained by
the British, later proceed to Ganpatipule, famous for its unspoiled
stretch of beaches and a temple of lord Ganesha. Overnight stay
at hotel.
38

Shree Chhatrapati Shahu Museum, Kolhapur
Day 5
Ganpatipule
In the morning, you will visit the Lord Ganesha temple, believed to
be 400 years old. It is built in a colossal rock on the shore and the
idol is believed to be “Swayambhu”. Rest of the day is at your leisure.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Ganpatipule - Chiplun (120 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Today you will drive to Chiplun, situated on the banks of Vashisthi
river and one of the quietest retreats in Maharashtra. This afternoon
you will visit the ancient Parshurama temple, dedicated to lord
Parshurama, one of the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu. Also visit
the Vashisthi river and enjoy optional boating facilities at additional
cost on the river bank. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7
Chiplun - Raigad (100 Kms / 2 hours)
Mumbai (210 Kms / 4-5 Hrs)
Today you will drive back to Mumbai, enroute stopping at the Fort
Raigad, Chhatrapati Shivaji’s most formidable forts, Raigad had the
honor of being his capital from 1664 to 1680. Strategically situated
on an irregular wedge-shaped mass of rock, detached from the
main body of Sahyadri Mountains by a deep valley and inaccessible
from three sides. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was coronated on this
fort. You may take a rope trolly or climb up the fort on foot. Later in
the afternoon, you will be transferred back to Mumbai.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 39

Hills of
Maharashtra
To u r C o d e | I C L A 017
5 N I G H T S | 6 D AY S
M u m b a i - M a t h e r a n
Mumbai
Matheran
Matheran
Day 1
Arrive Mumbai
Arrive in Mumbai. Pulsating, alive, on-the-move, vibrant, Fun - this
is Mumbai or as it is still frequently referred to - Bombay. The most
modern city in India, it captures the spirit of the changing pace set
by liberalization and modernization. You will be met upon arrival
and transferred to your hotel, rest of the evening is at your leisure.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Mumbai
This morning you will visit the Elephanta island by motorboat and
witness the beautifully sculpted rock-cut temples believed to have
been created between 450 and 750 A.D., when the island was
known as Gharapuri, the Fortress City. After lunch begin your city
tour with a visit to Gateway of India - the landmark of Mumbai,
proceed to Mani Bhavan (Mahatma Gandhi Memorial), you will
drive past Marine drive popularly called as the queen’s necklace
and visit the Hanging Gardens, built on a water reservoir. End your
tour with a visit to the Prince of Wales Museum, which boasts of a
significant collection of Indus valley artifacts some of them dating
back to more than 5000 years. Rest of the day is at your leisure for
shopping and individual activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Mumbai
This day is at leisure for shopping and individual activities. Overnight
stay at hotel
Day 4
Mumbai - Neral (110 Kms / 2-3 Hrs)
Matheran (20 Kms / 45 minutes)
Early this morning you will drive to Matheran, a charming hill station
known for its beautiful scenery. You may board a Mountain Toy
train from Neral to Matheran, a most picturesque journey offering
stunning views of Sahyadri Mountains. Matheran also boast as the
only hill station in India where any vehicular traffic is not allowed
inside Matheran Town. Proceed to your hotel on foot or on a horse
back, rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Matheran
This day is at leisure to explore various view points of Matheran on
your own. You may hire a horse or go for a day long walk to visit the
important viewpoints. Some of them include the Panorama Point,
One Tree Hill and Echo Point. Lastly visit the Charlot lake, which is
the main drinking water source of Matheran Town. Overnight stay
at hotel.
Day 6
Matheran - Mumbai (130 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
You will drive back to Mumbai and proceed to airport / railway
station for your journey back home.
40

Ajanta, Maharashtra

Sun Temple at Modhera, Gujarat
Amazing
Gujarat
Situated on the western part of the Indian sub-continent, Gujarat derives its name
‘Gujaratta’ meaning the land of Gurjars. The Gurjars passed through Punjab and settled
in some parts of Western India, which came to be known as Gujarat.
Gujarat today offers a wide range of the most spectacular attractions - which includes
breathtaking locations and scenic landscapes. Gujarat is also a melting pot of several
civilizations resulting in a vibrant culture and a rich heritage. Gujarat is home to several
architectural marvels, witnesses of its glorious history and pilgrim centres for many
faiths. Finally, it is also the land of several mythological & historical figures like the
legendary Krishna and Mahatma Gandhi, the apostle of non-violence.
Ahmedabad
Rajkot
Gondal
Junagarh
Gir
42

Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad is a unique city, blending an
ancient heritage with a vibrant present.
The city’s prosperous and eventful past
is embodied in its rich kaleidoscope
of history, art and culture, located on
the banks of the river Sabarmati, it is
the largest city of Gujarat and seventh
largest city of India. The city is sometimes
called as Karnavati, a name for an older
town that existed at the same site.
Ahmedabad is a blend of a harmonious
past and a vivacious present. It has
also retained its past glory in the form
of imposing architectural monuments
built in Hindu and Islamic styles.
Bhavnagar
An 18 th century coastal city, Bhavnagar
was the capital of an erstwhile princely
state. Bhavnagar was founded by
Bhavsinhji Gohil, the rulers of Sihor
in 1723 AD. It is an intermediate port
with a natural harbour. For the tourist
it is a convenient base for visits to the
town of Palitana and the sacred hill of
Shatrunjaya. The city has a beautiful
blend of modernism and traditionalism.
People of this city are simple, easygoing
and downright modest. The entire
atmosphere is that of peace and
comfort. It is known for its hospitality
and generosity.
Jamnagar
The Jams of Jamnagar were Jadeja
Rajputs who had their capital city
built in 1540. The progressive rulers
of this princely state, earlier known as
Nawanagar, made Jamnagar one of
the foremost states in the Saurashtra
region. Jamnagar is today known for
its tie-and-dye work on fabrics, silk and
gold embroidery.
Junagadh
An ancient fortified city rich in myth
and legend, Junagadh lies at the foot
of the temple-studded Girnar Hill. It
derives its name from the ‘old fort’,
which circles the medieval town. The
Girnar Hills that landscape Junagadh
are a holy sanctuary to the Jains. The
history of Mount Girnar dates back to
the awesome empire of Ashoka, one of
India’s greatest emperors.
Rajkot
This bustling town was once the capital
of the princely state of Saurashtra and
is also a former British government
headquarters. Mahatma Gandhi spent
the early years of his life here. The Gandhi
family home, the Kaba Gandhi No Delo,
now houses a permanent exhibition of
Gandhi items. The prestigious Rajkumar
College dates back to the second half of
last century and is regarded as one of
the best private schools in the country.
Vadodara
A graceful city of palaces, parks, temples
and museums and considered by many as
the de-facto cultural capital of Gujarat.
Once the capital of the Gaekwads, the
former rulers of Vadodara, it is also
known as Baroda and rises from the
banks of river Vishwamitri. Vadodara
is also the industrial capital of Gujarat.
Archaeological findings indicate that
human habitations existed here since
prehistoric times. It owes its present day
grandeur to Maharaja Sayajirao, a great
patron of art, architecture and music.
Surat
Surat finds mention in the Mahabharata
when Lord Krishna stopped here during
his journey from Mathura to Dwarka
with his cows. According to the Sanskrit
scriptures, this area was under the
control of the western Chalukyas in A.D.
610 and remained under Hindu kings till
12 th century when a general of Qutubud-din
Aibak captured the city. Surat
circuit consists of the old historic city
of Surat, India’s ancient trading centre.
Since long traders from across the seven
seas had links with this region.
Bhuj
The city of Bhuj is the most western city
of not only Gujarat but also throughout
India. The architecture of the Katchi
design is a distinct nature of the Bhuj.
Rann Utsav, the desert festival of Bhuj,
is popular all over the nation. The
handicraft articles and the embroidery
works of this city is worth appreciation.
The mighty desert of Rann of Kutch
shines in the northern part of the city
and the rest part is fenced with greenish
smaller hills.
Jagat Mandir
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 43

Amazing
Gujarat
Tour Code | ICL A018
6 NIGHTS | 7 DAYS
Ahmedabad - Rajkot - Gondal -
Junagarh - Gir - Ahmedabad
Rajkot
Gondal
Junagarh
Gir
Ahmedabad
Hathee Singh Jain Temple, Ahmedabad
Day 1
Ahmedabad - Rajkot (250 Kms / 5-6 Hrs)
Arrive in Ahmedabad and drive to Rajkot, the former capital of
the princely state of the same name and a fast growing city of
the Saurashtra peninsula. Arrive and proceed to your hotel. In the
afternoon, proceed for a city sightseeing tour of Rajkot, visit Kaba
Gandhi No Delo, house of Mahatma Gandhi, proceed to Jagat
Mandir, and lastly visit Watson Museum and library. Evening is at
your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Rajkot - Junagadh (99 Kms / 2 Hrs)
Today you will proceed to Junagadh. An ancient fortified city,
rich in myth and legend, Junagadh lies at the foot of the Girnar
Hills. Enroute to Junagadh you will stop to visit the famous Gondal
Palace, also you will witness a fine collection of automobiles
which are now part of a museum in the palace premises. Rest of
the evening is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Junagadh - Girnar - Junagadh
Today you will proceed for a full day excursion to Girnar Hills,
one of the most sacred pilgrim places for Jains in India. These
hills rise to a height of more than 600 meters, with five peaks
crowned by 16 carved and sculptured marble shrines. A steep
climb of about 2000 steps leads to the temples. The oldest and
largest temple is dedicated to Neminath, the 22 nd Tirthankar, who
attained ‘Diksha’ here. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Junagadh - Gir (60 Kms / 1 hour)
In the morning you will drive to the Gir forest, the only place in
the world, outside Africa where the Asiatic lion can be seen in
its natural habitat. Arrive and proceed to your hotel. Visit the Gir
National Park, you may have an opportunity to see the Asiatic
Lions, you may also sight the largest Indian Deer, Sambar, Chital,
Nilgai, Chinkara and the unique Chousingha are found here, along
with the bear and the long tailed langur. The peacock, India’s
national bird with its resplendent can also be spotted here.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Gir - Junagadh / Ahmedabad (350 Kms / 7-8 Hrs)
Early this morning you may visit the National park for optional
game viewing. Later you will drive to Ahmedabad, a unique city,
blending an ancient heritage with a vibrant present. The city’s
prosperous and eventful past is embodied in its rich kaleidoscope
of history, art and culture. Proceed to your hotel, rest of the day is
at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
44

Adalaj Step Well, Ahmedabad
Day 6
Ahmedabad
This morning proceed for the city sightseeing tour of Ahmedabad,
visit the Siddi Sayed Mosque famous for its shaking Minarets,
proceed to the Adaalaj Vav, a four storied step well consisting
of ornately carved pillars, niches and cross beams. Later visit the
serene and tranquil Sabarmati Ashram, the soul of the freedom
movement in India, where the leaders of the country was led by
the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, lastly you will proceed
to Akshardham temple in Gandhinagar. Rest of the day is at leisure
for shopping and individual activities. Overnight at hotel.
Day 7
Depart Ahmedabad
You will be transferred to airport/railway station for your journey
back home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 45

Grand
Gujarat
Tour Code | ICL A020
10 NIGHTS | 11 DAYS
Ahmedabad - Bhavnagar
- Diu - Sasangir - Rajkot -
Jamnagar - Bhuj
Bhuj
Jamnagar
Ahmedabad
Rajkot
Jamnagar
Sasangir
Diu
Bhavnagar
Day 1
Ahmedabad - Bhavnagar (207 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Arrive in Ahmedabad. Transfer to Bhavnagar. Founded in 1743
A.D., by Bhavsinhji Gohil, Bhavnagar was the capital of a former
princely state. It is located on the scenic Gulf of Kambhat
(Cambay), on the South Eastern coast of Saurashtra and a
gateway to the world famous Jain temples of Palitana. On arrival
proceed to visit the Jain Temples at Palitana, atop the hill, which
is a conglomeration of 863 exquisitely carved Jain shrines built
by devotees during a period spanning 900 years from the 11 th
century onwards. Here you will climb 3,500 steps to reach the
top of the hills to reach the temples (Dolis and palanquins, are
available and charges are as per the weight). Overnight stay at
hotel.
Day 2
Bhavnagar - Diu (223 Kms / 4-5 Hrs)
Today you will be transferred to Diu, a beautiful tiny island, on the
west coast of India, with a coastal length of 21 Kms. The word
`Diu’ is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Dweep’. Diu was one of
the best sea ports and a naval base between the 14 th and 16 th
Century. Proceed to your hotel and rest of the day is at leisure on
the beach. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Diu
Full day is at leisure on the beach or optionally you may visit the
Diu Fort. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Diu - Sasangir (128 Kms / 3 4 Hrs)
This morning you will drive to Sasangir. Enroute you will visit the
Somnath the most sacred Lord Shiva Temple in Western India,
proceed to your forest lodge and rest of the day is at your leisure.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Sasan Gir
Early morning and evening you will take a Lion Safari by jeep /
canter in the Gir Forest. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Sasan Gir - Rajkot (155 Kms / 4 Hrs)
Today you will drive from Sasangir to Rajkot, the gateway to
Saurashtra, followed by hotel check-in. In the afternoon, proceed
for a city sightseeing tour of Rajkot, visit the Kaba Gandhi No
Delo, house of Mahatma Gandhi, proceed to Jagat Mandir, and
lastly visit the Watson Museum and library. The evening is at
leisure to explore local markets. Overnight stay at hotel.
46

Bhuj
Day 7
Rajkot - Jamnagar (100 Kms / 2 Hrs)
Today you will be driven from Rajkot to Jamnagar, a former
princely state built in the year 1540 by the Jadeja Rajputs, enroute
you will visit the Morvi town famous for its Pottery and ceramic
tiles. Proceed to your hotel and rest of the day is at your leisure.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8
Jamnagar - Dwarka - Jamnagar
(148 Kms / 3 Hrs one way)
This morning you will proceed for a full day excursion to visit
Dwarka, one of the Hinduism’s four ‘Holy Abodes’ (Chardhams).
Visit the temples of Lord Krishna and Goddess Rukhmini. In the
evening return to Jamnagar and overnight stay at hotel.
Day 10
Bhuj
This morning proceed for a sightseeing of Bhuj, visit Aina Mahal
Palace, Cenotoph Complex and Kutch Museum. Later this
afternoon you will visit Bani Village (90 Kms/2 hrs one way),
famous for hand embroidery on textile and leather, you may also
see local tribes making embroidery and buy embroidered fabric or
leather articles. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 11
Depart Bhuj
Today you will be transferred from your hotel to the airport /
railway station for your journey back home.
Day 9
Jamnagar - Bhuj (313 Kms / 7-8 Hrs)
Early this morning you will drive to Bhuj (313 Kms / 7 hrs ), proceed
to your hotel and rest of the day is at leisure to look around the
local markets. Overnight stay at hotel.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 47

Exotic
Kutch
Tour Code | ICL A019
6 NIGHTS | 7 DAYS
Bhuj - Mandvi
Bhuj
Mandavi
Aina Mahal, Kutch
Day 1
Arrive in Bhuj
Arrive in Bhuj. The princely citadel of Bhuj is named after its Bhujia
fortress, which overlooks the city from a hill nearby. The region
is said to have witnessed the Indus Valley Civilization, exile of the
Pandavas during the Mahabharata period and the invasion of
Alexander the Great. You will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Kutch - Nalia Bustard Sanctuary Excursion ( 70 Kms / 1-2
Hours One Way )
After breakfast, visit the Kutch Bustard Sanctuary which was set
up in the year 1992 over a relatively slender area measuring about
2 Sq. Kms, in the throbbing grasslands belonging to the Abdusa
Taluka, flourishing with avifaunistic and life-forms. The woods
adjunct to the rural settlements of Jakau and Budia are gobbled up
by the Kutch Bustard Sanctuary in order to provide sufficient space
for the resident creatures to thrive. The Kutch Bustard Sanctuary
provides a comfy domicile for the endangered species of ‘The Great
Indian Bustard’. Return to the hotel (ID Proof and 02 Photographs
required).
Day 3
Bhuj - Banni Villages ( 90 Kms / 2 Hours one way )
After breakfast visit the Banni Villages to see local tribes and their
textiles. This village popularly known as Embroidery village known
48
all over the world for its intricate hand embroidered fabric and
leather articles. You may have an opportunity to witness local ladies
making embroidery which is still being done using traditional
methods, you will also have an opportunity to shop for embroidered
fabric, sarees, leather shoes and many more… In the evening return
back to Bhuj. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Bhuj
This morning proceed for a sightseeing of Bhuj, visit the Aina Mahal
Palace, Cenotoph Complex and Kutch Museum. Rest of the day is at
leisure to explore Bhuj town on your own. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Bhuj - Mandvi (60 Kms / 1 Hour)
After breakfast transfer to Mandvi, located on the banks of the
Rukmavati river, barely one Km away from the Arabian Sea at the
Gulf of Kutch. Arrive and proceed to your resort. Rest of the day
is at leisure on the beach or simply relax in your resort. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 6
Mandvi
This day is at leisure for local sightseeing or explore nearby tiny town
of Diu famous for its beaches on your own. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7
Mandvi Bhuj
Transfer to airport / railway Station at Bhuj and proceed for your
journey back home..

FOREVER URBANE. FOREVER VERDANT. FOREVER EXQUISITE.
In the midst of a city famed for cutting edge technology stands the 125-year-old Taj west End. Born of an era that favoured
bungalows and one-storey intimacy, it is situated across 20 acres of landscaped gardens. remade entirely with contemporary
appointments, the Taj west End offers superlative service, the distinctive style of The Taj club and other facilities. Enjoy superb
dining at Blue Ginger, which serves exquisite vietnamese cuisine, Blue Bar, the city’s hottest nightspot and Masala klub, which
features stylishly crafted light Indian fare. Discover the Taj difference at this Bangalore landmark.
Taj forever.
I n D I a • n E w Y o r k • B o S T o n • S a n F r a n c I S c o • L o n D o n • c a P E T o w n • D u B a I
M a L D I v E S • S r I L a n k a • L a n G k a w I • B H u T a n • S Y D n E Y • o P E n I n G S H o r T L Y : M a r r a k E c H
Visit tajhotels.com. Call 1.800.111.825 toll free or the hotel directly, 91.80.6660.5660. Email reservations @tajhotels.com

Kangchenjunga
Enticing
East India
The journey to the north-east is a tumultuous but rewarding one. The infinite variety of
its geographical setting, topography, varied flora & fauna, and avian life. The history of
its people and the variety of its ethnic communities and their rich heritage of ancient
traditions and lifestyles, festivals and crafts make it a holiday wonderland that’s just
begging to be discovered afresh.
Discovering the north-east states, including the partially opened up Sikkim, in the
eastern Himalayas, is a challenge yet a romantic adventure in the best traditions of travel
and discovery. The raw natural beauty, rare orchids and butterflies, brightly painted
monasteries, challenging rivers, intricately woven tribal shawls, indigenous sports etc.
each one has its own special message to the traveler, as he passes from one state to
another, mesmerized by its dazzling variety and compelling appeal.
Yumthang
Yuksam
Pelling
Gangtok
Darjeeling
Siliguri
50

Darjeeling
Located at an altitude of 2,250 metres,
the idyllic setting, exhilarating air and
stunning views of the Kangchendzonga
range is what attracts a lot of tourists
to Darjeeling. Surrounded by hills thickly
covered by coniferous forests and
terraced tea gardens, trekking here is a
pleasure that no nature lover would like
to miss. Also famous is the rail journey
to Darjeeling by a Victorian toy train.
Though it takes around 8 hours, it’s
more of a sightseeing trip than a means
of travel. Sightseeing would include
the Ghoom Monastery, Tiger Hill, Tea
Gardens and the Zoological Gardens.
Kalimpong
A small hill resort similar to Darjeeling,
it is situated at an altitude of 1,200
metres. Located 50 Kms away from
Darjeeling, the most attractive thing
about Kalimpong would be its healthy
climate. Besides taking relaxed walks
in the fragrant air of Kalimpong, one
can visit the Kalimpong Art and Craft
centre, the flower and orchard nursery,
Deolo Hills and the various monasteries.
Siliguri
Siliguri is also called the Gateway of
Eastern India as it is the main transit
point for going to the Darjeeling hill
region, Sikkim, Bhutan, eastern Nepal
and Assam. It is one of the biggest towns
in North Bengal. The surrounding areas
of the city are beautiful, making the
journey quite memorable. Sightseeing
over here would include the Mahananda
Wildlife sanctuary (permits required),
Madhuban Park, Salugara Monastery,
Kali Mandir and the Coronation Bridge.
Gangtok
The capital of Sikkim lies at an altitude
of 1870 metres. Though the modern
Gangtok epitomizes the recent changes
in the Sikkimese culture and politics, its
Buddhist past is the root of its appeal
to the tourists and is evident at the
impressive monasteries found here.
The must visit places in Gangtok would
include the Directorate of Handicraft
and Handloom, Enchey Monastery,
Do-Drul Chorten (Stupa), Rumtek
Monastery, Institute of Tibetology,
Tsomgo lake and the Orchid sanctuary.
Pelling (Pemayangtse)
The pleasant little town of Pelling
is famous for its magnificent view
of the snow-capped mountains of
Kangchendzonga. Placid Pelling pulls
most of the visitors for its representative
status in history, nature and culture of
the state. Situated at an altitude of
2,085 metres, it offers a good view of
the entire mountain ranges including
the Koktang, Kumbhakarna, Rathong,
Kabru, Dom, Kangchendzonga, Pandim,
Zopuno, Shimbho, Narsing, Siniyalchu
and others. Pelling is as close as one can
get to Kangchendzonga.
The material comfort of good hotels to
its advantageous location. Sightseeing
would include the Khecheopalai lake,
the Khang-Chen-Dzonga waterfalls
and Singshore Bridge, the highest
suspension bridge in Sikkim.
Yuksam
A sleepy village, Yuksam, the first capital
of Sikkim is where the three Lamas met
to enthrone the first religious King
of Sikkim. In front of the throne, an
impressive footprint is embedded in
a rock by one of the Lamas. Must see
in Yuksam would be the Kathok Lake,
a small scummy pond from where one
can get a view of the snow-capped
mountains, the Dubdi Monastery and
the coronation throne.
Yumthang
Yumthang, located at an altitude of
3,658 metres, is one of the few places
untouched by civilization. Well known
for its hot springs with curative and
healing powers, it is also famous for its
valley that blooms in different colours. A
paradise for nature lovers, it is the home
of Shingbha Rhododendron sanctuary
which has 24 species of rhododendrons.
Darjeeling
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 51

Eastern
Chills
Tour Code | ICL A021
5 NIGHTS | 6 DAYS
New Jalpaiguri / Bagdogra -
Darjeeling - Gangtok -
New Jalpaiguri / Bagdogra
Gangtok
Darjeeling
Jalpaiguri
Darjeeling
Day 1
Arrive Darjeeling (100 Kms / 2-3 Hrs)
Arrive in Bagdogra airport / New Jalpaiguri railway station and
transfer to Darjeeling, which conjures visions of serenity, of
vibrant green hills steeped in splendour, a land of breathtaking
beauty crowned by the majestic Himalayas. Arrive and proceed to
your hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Darjeeling
Early morning (03:30 hrs) visit Tiger Hills to witness the spectacular
sunrise over the Kangchendzonga mountains. On return, visit the
famous Ghoom Monastery and the Batasia loop. This afternoon
visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, the Himalayan
Zoo and the Botanical Gardens. At the end of the tour, visit the
Tibetan handicraft centre and drive pass Darjeeling Tea Gardens.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Darjeeling - Gangtok (114 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
In the morning you will be transferred by road to Gangtok, which
is literally the “lofty hill” set amidst the clouds and mists of the
splendorous Himalayas and is a gateway to Sikkim, situated at an
height of 5,500 feet. Proceed to your hotel and rest of the day is
at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Gangtok
This morning proceed on an excursion to Baba Mandir, dedicated
to a old soldier of the Indian Army, later visit the picturesque
Tsomgo lake, a holy lake worshipped by the Sikkimese. Enjoy an
optional yak ride around the lake. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Gangtok
In the morning proceed to Tashi viewpoint which offers a
spectacular view of the mountains, Ganesh Tok and Hanuman
Tok. Later proceed on a sightseeing tour of Gangtok - Do Drul
Chortan, Stupa, Institute of Tibetology, Institute of Handicrafts
and Handlooms, Enchay Monastery, Flower Monastery and
Rumtek Monastery, which is the largest in Sikkim and is the main
seat of the Karma Kagyu lineage. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Depart Gangtok (127 Kms / 4-5 Hrs)
Transfer to Bagdogra airport / New Jalpaiguri railway station for
your journey back home.
52

The Last
Shangrila
Tour Code | ICL A022
6 NIGHTS | 7 DAYS
New Jalpaiguri / Bagdogra -
Gangtok - Lachung - Gangtok -
New Jalpaiguri / Bagdogra
Gangtok
Jalpaiguri
Lachung
Tsomgo Lake, Gangtok
Day 1
Arrive Gangtok (127 Kms / 4-5 hrs)
Arrive at Bagdogra airport / New Jalpaiguri railway station and
transfer to Gangtok. Upon arrival in Gangtok, transfer to hotel.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Gangtok
This morning proceed to Tashi viewpoint which offers a
spectacular view of the mountains, Ganesh Tok and Hanuman
Tok. Later proceed on a sightseeing tour of Gangtok - Do Drul
Chortan, Stupa, Institute of Tibetology, Institute of Handicrafts
and Handlooms, Enchay Monastery, Flower Monastery and
Rumtek Monastery, which is the largest in Sikkim and is the main
seat of the Karma Kagyu lineage. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Gangtok
This morning proceed for a half day excursion to Baba Mandir and
the sacred Tsomgo lake (12,400 ft), (32 Kms / 2 hrs). Enjoy an optional
yak ride around this picturesque lake. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Gangtok
Lachung (117 Kms / 5-6 hrs)
Today you will drive to Lachung (small pass) situated at a height of
8,610 ft, one of the most exquisite villages in the valleys of North
Sikkim. With resplendent snow-capped mountains, dazzling
waterfalls and sparkling streams. Enroute to Lachung you will
stop to visit the Phodong Monastery. The original monastery has
been rebuilt and is today one of the most beautiful monasteries in
Sikkim. It possesses the old mural paintings and has around 260
monks. Arrive and proceed to your hotel. The evening is at your
leisure to explore this beautiful Himalayan village on your own.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Lachung
This morning, visit the Yumthang Valley, situated at an altitude of
about 11,800 ft. It is covered with rhododendron shrubs and trees
of various species. The valley is well known for its hot springs,
you will visit the Hot Spring and Singba Rhododendron Sanctuary.
Later visit Lachung Monastery. Evening is at leisure. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 6
Lachung - Gangtok (117 Kms / 5-6 Hrs)
In the morning return to Gangtok (117 Kms / 5-6 hrs). Proceed to
your hotel. Day is at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7
Depart Gangtok (127 Kms / 4-5 Hrs)
Transfer to Bagdogra airport / New Jalpaiguri railway station for
your journey back home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 53

Splendors of
Himalaya
To u r C o d e | I C L A 02 3
6 N I G H T S | 7 D AY S
K a l i m p o n g , G a n g t o k
& D a r j e e l i n g
Jalpaiguri
Gangtok
Lachung
Kalimpong
Darjeeling
Toy Train, Darjeeling
Day 1
Bagdogra / New Jalpaiguri - Kalimpong ( 75 Kms/2-3 Hrs)
On arrival at Bagdogra / New Jalpaiguri you will be met and
transferred by road to Kalimpong, a quiet hill resort in eastern
Himalaya famous for its Orchids and Nurseries. Arrive and proceed
to your hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. Explore this scenic town
on your own. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Kalimpong - Gangtok (78 Kms / 2-3 Hrs)
In the morning you will proceed for the sightseeing tour of
Kalimpong, you will visit Durpin Dhara, Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brong
Monastery, and Flower & Orchid Nurseries. Later this afternoon you
will be transferred to Gangtok, situated at an altitude of 5,500 ft
Gangtok, the capital of the state of Sikkim, is a beautiful and clean
town promising the best monasteries and landscapes. Proceed to
your hotel, rest of the evening is at your leisure. Overnight stay
at hotel.
Day 3
Gangtok
In the morning you will start your sightseeing tour of Gangtok,
visiting - Chortan, Stupa, Institute of Tibetology (closed on Sunday)
Institute of handicrafts and handlooms (closed on Sunday). In the
afternoon you will visit the Roomtek Monastery & Dharma Chakra
centre, biggest monastery in Sikkim and main seat of the Karma
Kagyu lineage.
Day 4
Gangtok - Tsomgo Lake - Gangtok
Today you will proceed on an excursion tour to Tsomgo lake (32
Kms / 2 hrs), an oval shaped lake about 1 Km long and approx 15
meters deep situated at an altitude of 12,400 ft and considered
as the most sacred lake by the local people. Return to Gangtok
late in the afternoon. Rest of the day is at leisure for shopping and
individual activity. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Gangtok - Darjeeling (93 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Today you will be transferred to Darjeeling, the tea capital of the
world and India’s premier hill station known for its magnificent
views of the Himalayas. Proceed to your hotel. Rest of the day is
at leisure to relax in your hotel or you may walk around. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 6
Darjeeling
Early morning (03:30 hrs) start for the Tiger Hill to witness
a spectacular sunrise, and its amazing effects on the Mt.
Kangchendzonga (World’s 3 rd highest peak) on your return visit
Ghoom Monastery and Batashia Loop, a War Memorial. Later
this morning proceed on a half day local sightseeing of the
Padmaja N. Zoological Garden (closed on Thursday), Himalayan
Mountaineering Institute (closed on Thursday), Tibetian Refugee
Self-help Center (closed on Sunday) the Mall and Local Market
(closed on Thursday). Rest of the day is at leisure for shopping and
individual activity. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7
Darjeeling - Bagdogra / New Jalpaiguri (90 Kms / 2-3 Hrs)
Morning transfer to Bagdogra airport / New Jalpaiguri railway
station for your journey back home.
54

Amazing
East
To u r C o d e | I C L A 024
5 N I G H T S | 6 DAY S
G u w a h a t i - S h i l l o n g -
K a z i r a n g a - G u w a h a t i
Guwahati
Kaziranga
Kaziranga National Park
Shilong
Day 1
Guwahati - Shillong (130 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Arrive in Guwahati. Transfer by road to Shillong, a hill town
situated at an altitude of 1,496 m above sea level. Proceed to
hotel and rest of the day is at leisure to explore local markets on
your own. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Shillong
This morning you will proceed on an excursion to Cherapunjee
(60 Kms / 1.5 hrs one way), situated in one of the rainiest rainbelts
in the world, 1,300 meters above sea level, The lovely town
is also famous for its limestone caves and orange honey. Centre
of Khasi culture and literature. In the afternoon you will visit the
Burra Bazar or Idew Market (closed on Sundays), one of the most
interesting markets one can see over here. Overnight at hotel.
Day 3
Shillong - Kaziranga (325 Kms / 6-7 Hrs)
Early this morning you will be transferred to Kaziranga, a title
of a remarkable success story of conservation of the one horned
Indian Rhinoceros and other wildlife in North East India. Arrive
and proceed to your hotel. Rest of the day is at your leisure.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Kaziranga National Park
Early this morning enjoy an Elephant safari, where you will have
an rare opportunity to see the single horned Rhinoceros and
some other rare exotic wildlife. Also enjoy a game viewing in the
sanctuary by jeep. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Kaziranga - Gauwahati (220 Kms / 4-5 Hrs)
In the morning you will be transferred by road to Guwahati,
situated on the southern bank of Brahmaputra river and gateway
to the North eastern states of India. Rest of the day is at your
leisure for shopping and local sightseeing. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Depart Guwahati
Transfer to airport / railway station for your journey back home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 55

Splendors of
Assam and
Arunachal
Tour Code | ICL A025
8 NIGHTS | 9 DAYS
Guwahati - Tezpur - Dirang -
Tawang - Bomdila - Nameri -
Kaziranga - Guwahati
Bomdila
Tawang
Dirang
Tezpur
Kaziranga
Guwahati
Buddhist Monastery
Shilong
Day 1
Guwahati - Tezpur (200 Kms / 5-6 Hrs)
Arrive in Guwahati and transfer to Tezpur, situated on the banks
of Brahmaputra River, adorned by lush green hills and hillocks.
Proceed to your hotel and rest of the day is at your leisure.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Tezpur - Dirang (165 Kms / 5-6 Hrs)
Drive to Dirang, an ideal getaway in west Kameng district with
beautiful apple orchards and sheep breeding farms. Proceed to
your hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure to explore the local market.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Dirang - Tawang (140 Kms / Approx 6 Hrs)
Today you will drive to Tawang, situated at an altitude of 12,000
ft above sea level, is the land of the Monpa tribes and a major
centre of the Mahayana Buddhists. Enroute you will visit the Sella
Pass at an altitude of 13,700 feet, also visit the Dzong waterfall.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Tawang
Today you will visit the famous 400 year old Buddhist monastery,
one of the biggest in India known for its interesting collection
of Thangkas (Tibtean Paintings on cloth), also visit the Tawang
Monastery known as ‘Golden Namgyal Lhaste’. Rest of the day is
at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Tawang - Bomdila (181 Kms / 7- 8 Hrs)
Early this morning you will drive to Bomdila, perched amongst the
panoramic settings of the lofty ranges of the eastern Himalayas
also known for its Buddhist monasteries and apple orchids.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Bomdila - Nameri (110 Kms / 4-5 Hrs)
This morning you will visit the Craft Center, producing fine carpets
of colourful designs, masks and the Buddhist monastery. Later
drive to the Nameri National Park, located at the foothills of
eastern Himalayas covering an area of about 200 Sq. Kms. Arrive
and proceed to your Eco Camp. Overnight stay at camp.
Day 7
Nameri - Kaziranga (120 Kms / 2-3 Hrs)
This morning enjoy a floating ride on a barge to Jia Bhoroli with
a picnic lunch. In the evening you will be transferred to Kaziranga
National Park. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8
Kaziranga
Early morning enjoy an elephant safari to view the exotic
wildlife and the single horned Rhinoceros. You will also have an
opportunity to be on a Jeep safari to experience some more exotic
wildlife and flora and fauna. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 9
Kaziranga - Guwahati (220 Kms / 4-5 Hrs)
After an early breakfast, you will be transferred to Guwahati
airport / railway station for your journey back home.
56

Unexplored
Andaman
Tour Code | ICL A026
5 NIGHTS | 6 DAYS
Por t Blair - Bar tang - Diglipur -
Por t Blair - Havlock Island
Diglipur
Bartang
Port Blair
Beach in Andamans
Day 1
Arrive Port Blair
Arrive at Port Blair. Check-in at hotel. After a brief relaxation
depart for an exploration trip to one of the must see historical
sites of Andaman. The Cellular Jail is followed by the ‘Light and
Sound Show’, a dreadful display of atrocities, struggle & courage
of dedicated, determined and fearless countrymen & women.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Port Blair - Diglipur Island By Sea Plane
After breakfast start off early morning and proceed to experience
the journey of a lifetime. Reach the airport to take a Sea Plane to
Diglipur Island. The plane will take off from the airport in Port Blair
and will land at the sea in Diglipur. Flying low over the Andaman
Islands, giving you an exact panoramic view of Andaman Islands.
Upon arrival to the Island we will check-in to the resort and after
breakfast proceed to Ross & Smith Islands, spend the day out there
and return back to the hotel in the evening. Ross & Smith are the
twin islands in the Northern Group of Andaman Islands. Among
many islands, these two islands are very famous because both
these Islands are connected by Sand Bar during high tide, they
both are separate Islands and during low tide one can walk over.
The crystal clear blue water is amazing and good for swimming
and sun bathing. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Diglipur Island - Port Blair
After Breakfast, we will start this day as we head back to Port
Blair island. While back in Port Blair, we would take a stopover
at Baratang island, visit the Limestone Cave and Mud Volcano.
The ride through the creek to reach the Lime stone cave is very
exciting. One can even witness one of the oldest tribes of the
World ‘The Jarwas’. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Port Blair - Havelock Islands
After breakfast start off early morning to Havelock Islands. After
reaching to Havelock Islands check-in at respective hotel. During
the day explore the effervescent, breathtaking beach of Radha
Nagar. Also you may experience the thrill of Snorkelling at Elephant
beach. On this hour long adventure trip with professional guides,
travel through the dense mangrove creeks of the island and
discover the adventure of sea kayaking. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Havelock Islands - Port Blair
After breakfast relax and enjoy the beauty of Havelock Islands. Later
in the afternoon board the Ferry to Port Blair. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Departure
Transfer to Airport to connect flight for your journey back home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 57

Orrisa Caves
Scenic
Orissa
Orissa is an attractive treasure house of cultures & customs, religions & traditions,
languages & literature, art & architecture, scenic beauty & wildlife. Situated on the
eastern coast along the Bay of Bengal, Orissa stands for its ancient glory and modern
endeavour. The state once formed a part of the kingdom of Kalinga, which is best known
in ancient history for its brave resistance in the 3 rd century B.C., against the invasion of
the Mauryan King Ashoka who ultimately conquered it. That the emperor turned to
Buddhism and peace after witnessing the bloodshed in this war is well known. This was
also the turning point in the history of Orissa giving a boost to art and architecture in
the ancient kingdom. Orissa is also known for exquisite handicrafts. The silver filigree
work of Cuttack, the horn work of Cuttack & Parlakhemundi, and the famous appliqué
work of Pipili deserve special mention. Pattachitra, a form of folk painting of Orissa,
is a unique craft. The brass & bell metal ware, particularly vases & candle stands, are
beautiful and long lasting.
Cuttack
Bhubaneswar
Konark
Puri
58

Bhubaneshwar
Bhubaneshwar “The Lord of the
Universe”, is also popularly known as
the “Temple City of India” on account
of its many temples in the extravagant
Orissa style. Being the seat of Shiva or
Tribhubaneshwar “Lord of the Three
Worlds”, from which the city derives its
name, Bhubaneshwar is an important
Hindu pilgrimage centre. Hundreds of
temples dot the landscape of the Old
Town, which once boasted of more than
2000 temples. Bhubaneshwar is the
place where temple building activities in
the Orissan style flowered from its very
inception to its culmination, extending
over a thousand years.
Cuttack
30 Kms north of Bhubaneshwar was
the medieval capital, Cuttack, one of
the oldest towns in Orissa. It was the
capital and administrative centre until
the end of the British Raj, till the year
1956. Cuttack was founded by Nripati
Kesari (920-935 A.D.). It occupies an
important strategic position in relation
to the network of canals in the region.
The town is almost an island being
situated at the head of the Mahanadi
delta and surrounded by the great river
and its tributary, the Kathjuri.
Puri
Hilgiri, Niladri, Hilachal Purushottam,
Sankhakshetra, Srikehetra, Jagannath
Dham, Jagannath Puri. Puri is a place
with many names over the centuries.
Two great forces dominate Puri; the
sea (Bay of Bengal) and the great
temple of Lord Jagannath. One of the
four celebrated religious centers (Char
Dhams) of India, Puri, the abode of Lord
Jagannath needs no introduction.
Besides its religious significance a large
number of people also go to Puri for both
adventure as well as a restful holiday.
Puri is famous for its historic antiquities,
religious sanctuaries, architectural
grandeur, beautiful sea and moderate
climate. It holds a wealth of attractions
for visitors. It boasts of a long history
from the 3 rd century B.C. to the present
day and its unique monuments.
Konark
The magnificent Sun Temple at Konark
is a supreme example of Orissa’s
temple architecture, and one of the
most stunning monuments of religious
architecture in the world. The poet
Rabindranath Tagore said of Konark that
here the language of stone surpasses
the language of man, and it is true that
the experience of Konark is impossible
to translate into words.
The massive structure, now in ruins, sits
in solitary splendour, surrounded by
drifting sands. Today it is located 2 Kms
from the sea, but originally, the ocean
came almost up to its base. Until fairly
recent times, in fact, the temple was
close enough to the shore to be used
as a navigational point by European
sailors, who referred to it as the ‘Black
Pagoda’.
Chilka
Chilka is the largest lagoon along
the east coast of India. It is a unique
assemblage of marine, brackish and
fresh water eco-system with estuarine
characters. It is one of the hotspots
of biodiversity and shelters housing a
number of endangered species listed in
the IUCN red list of threatened species.
It is also a designated Ramsar site. The
Chilka lagoon is host to more than one
million migratory birds during winter.
The highly productive lagoon ecosystem
with its rich fishery resources,
sustains the livelihood of more than
0.15 million fisher folk who live in and
around the Lagoon. The water-spread
area of the Lagoon varies between 1,165
to 906 Sq. Kms during the monsoon
and summer respectively.
Chilka Lake
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 59

Highlights of
Orissa
Tour Code | ICL A027
6 Nights | 7 Days
Bhubaneswar-Konark - Puri
-Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneshwar
Konark
Puri
Jain Cave Temples, Bhubaneshwar
Day 1
Arrive Bhubaneshwar
Arrive in Bhubaneshwar, the capital city of the modern state and
ancient kingdom of Kalinga. You will be met upon arrival and
transferred to your hotel. This afternoon you will proceed for
the city sightseeing tour of Bhubaneshwar, the Lingaraj Temple
dedicated to Lord Shiva and built in the 11 th century, followed
by the Mukteswara Temple built in the 10 th century and known
for the tales from the Panchatantra carved on it, a magnificent
example of Orissan architecture. Continue to the Rajarani Temple,
set in picturesque surroundings and noted for its intricate carvings
of floral, animal and human figures. Rest of the evening is at your
leisure for individual activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Bhubaneshwar
This morning you will visit the Nandankanan Biological Park.
Picturesque Nandankanan, or the Garden of the Gods, is a
beautiful park, 20 Kms from Bhubaneshwar, established in 1960.
The park houses the very first captive gharial breeding centre in
country. The zoo at Nandakanan is world-renowned for its white
tigers. Enjoy an optional aerial ropeway and cable car ride for a
bird’s eye view of the park.
In the afternoon, visit the Khandagiri and Udaygiri caves, carved
and tunneled in the hills, to create a multi-storied ancient
apartment residence for Jain monks. They were the work of the
first known ruler of Orissa, King Kharavela, in the 1 st century B.C.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Bhubaneshwar
This morning, proceed for an excursion to Hirapur, famous for
its 64 Yogini Temple, a 9 th century temple, that has sculptures
of female figures on its sandstone walls. Each figure stands on
a severed human head, holding a knife in one hand and a skull
cup in the other. Another special feature is its entrance, guarded
by skeletal figures wearing garlands of skulls and snake anklets.
Later visit the Balakati bell metal crafts village, the State and Tribal
Museum and the Ekamra crafts village. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Bhubaneshwar - DhauI - Pipli - Konark - Puri
(70 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Today you will proceed to Puri, enroute you will visit, Dhaul the
battleground of the Kalinga war during the 3 rd century B.C.,
which transformed Emperor Ashoka into Dharmashoka. Visit
the Buddhist Peace Pagoda, built in the 1970s, famous for the
Ashoka Rock Edict, the Dhabaleshwar Temple. Later, visit the Pipli
village known for its character and vitality, famous for its brilliant
appliqué work.
Later you will visit Konark, a world heritage site. The temple
chariot of the Sun God on the sands of the Bay of Bengal is a
13 th century architectural marvel, complete with twelve pairs of
60

Puri
wheels and seven horses. This legendary temple also has other
sculptures of great beauty covering all aspects of life, including
erotic art. Later drive to Puri and proceed to your hotel. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 5
Puri
In the morning you will visit Puri, the city by the sea. It is a
major pilgrim center, founded by Adi Shankara and is one of the
peethas here. Puri is also famous for its golden beach ideal for
swimming and surfing. But Puri’s main claim to fame comes from
the Jagannath Temple, which contributed the word Juggernaut
to the English language. The 12 th century temple is known for its
annual Car Festival. In the afternoon you will visit the Raghurajpur
“Pattachitra” painting village, a half-hour drive from Puri.
The “Pattachitras” are traditional folk paintings which make
beautiful wall hangings that lend a mystic touch to any decor.
Visit to Puri is incomplete without the Sakshigopal. Overnight stay
at hotel.
like the flamingo, teal, bar headed goose, shoveller and whitebellied
sea eagle. For bird-lovers, Chilka is best visited in winter,
when migratory birds fly in from places as far as Siberia. Evening
is at leisure for shopping and individual activities. Overnight stay
at hotel.
Day 7
Puri - Bhubaneshwar (60 Kms/1-2 Hrs)
Today you will be transferred to the airport / railway station for
your journey back home.
Day 6
Puri - Chilka Lake - Puri
This morning you will proceed on a full day excursion to the
famous Chilka Lake, the largest brackish water lake in India
spreading over 1200 Sq Kms and famous for its migratory birds
and Irawadi dolphins. It attracts a large number of migratory birds
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 61

Tribal tour of
Orissa
Tour Code | ICL A028
9 NIGHTS | 10 DAYS
Bhubaneshwar - Konark -
Puri - Rayagada Jaypore -
Vishakhapatnam
Bhubaneshwar
Konark
Puri
Rayagada
Sun Temple, Konark
Vishakhapattanam
Day 1
Arrive Bhubaneshwar
Arrive in Bhubaneshwar. You will be met and transferred to your
hotel. Rest of the day is at your leisure to explore this ancient city
of Kalinga on your own. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Bhubaneshwar
This morning proceed for a sightseeing tour of Bhubaneshwar.
You will visit the Lingaraj Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, built in
the 11 th century, proceed to the Mukteswara Temple built in the
10 th century and known for the tales from the Panchatantra carved
on it, a magnificent example of Orissa’s architecture. Continue
to the Rajarani Temple, built in 11 th century set in picturesque
surroundings and noted for its intricate carvings of floral, animal
and human figures.
In the afternoon visit the Khandagiri and Udaygiri caves, carved
and tunnelled, to create a multi-storied ancient “apartment”
residence for Jain monks. They were the work of the first known
ruler of Orissa, King Kharavela, in the first century B.C. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 3
Bhubaneshwar-DhauI-Pipli-Konark-Puri (70 Kms/3-4 Hrs)
Today you will proceed to Puri, enroute you will visit, Dhaulithe
battleground of Kalinga war during 3 rd century B.C, which
transformed Emperor Ashoka into Dharmashoka, visit a Buddhist
Peace Pagoda, built in 1970s, famous for the Ashokan Rock Edict
and the Dhabaleswar Temple. Later visit the Pipli village, famous
for brilliant appliqué work known for its folk character and vitality.
Later you will visit Konark, a world heritage site. The temple chariot
of the Sun God on the sands of the Bay of Bengal is a 13 th century
architectural marvel. It is designed as a celestial chariot of the
Sun God, complete with twelve pairs of wheels and seven horses.
This legendary temple has sculptures of great beauty covering all
aspects of life. It is most famous for its erotic art. Later drive to
Puri and proceed to your hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Puri
This morning you will visit Puri, the city by the sea and a major
pilgrim center in India, founded by Adi Shankara and is one of the
peethas here. Puri is also famous for its Golden beach, ideal for
swimming and surfing. But the fame of Puri emanates most from
the Jagannath Temple, which contributed the word Juggernaut to
the English language. Rest of the day is at leisure on the beach.
Overnight stay at hotel.
62

Day 5
Puri - Saora - Rayagada
Today you will begin a tribal tour to Rayagada, enroute you will
be visiting Saora tribe and villages. The whole area is an intricate
labyrinth of precipitous hills and valleys, which are part of the
Eastern Ghat the height of the hills varying from 2,000 to 4,000
feet above sea level. Tracing their origin to the Ramayana, there
is a reference to Savari, a Saora woman whom Ram and Laxman
met while moving about in the Dandaka forests in search of Sita.
Also visit the local tribal market. Proceed to your hotel and rest of
the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Rayagada
Today you will proceed for a full day excursion to Bissam Cuttack
to see the Kutia Kondh and their weekly tribal market in Dukum
village. The most important aspect of the Kondh tribal culture is
music and dance. Among certain tribes, young men cannot find
brides unless they acquire special skill in dance and music, which
are primarily meant to propitiate the gods and goddesses. In social
functions like marriage and feasts, dancing is a must. The dances
are performed in a central place of the village or in the communal
house and attended by almost all the tribesmen. Each tribe has it
own pattern of dance and music. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7
Rayagada - Jeypore
Today you will see the tribal market of Dhongira Kondh. You will
leave for Chatikona to visit the weekly market of the Dongria
Kondh tribe (The weekly market is held every Wednesday). Then
leave for Jeypore, enroute visiting the Desai Kondh tribe, village
and their weekly market The Kondhs are of a Dravidian origin and
speak Kuvi language. The Kondhs are known in the history for
their “meriah” sacrifice-human sacrifice. They practice elaborate
birth, marriage and death rituals. Arrive and proceed to your
hotel, rest of the evening is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8
Jeypore
Full day visit to the famed Bonda tribe and their weekly market,
(held at Onukudelli). On the hilly main street of this tiny town,
the Bondas have been described as a wild, most interesting tribe.
Known as the naked people, the Bondas are a fascinating group.
They are named after the Bonda hills of Orissa and are known for
their stubborn, independent and often ferocious spirit. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 9
Jeypore - Gupteswar - Vishakapatnam
Today you will proceed to Vishakapatnam. Enroute you will visit
the Gupteswar cave and the Dhurva tribe. The Gupteswar cave is a
famous shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and located at the top of a
limestone hill, about 500 meters above sea level. Surrounded by a
dense forest of sal trees and flanked by the Kolab river. Arrive and
proceed to your hotel, rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 10
Depart Vishakhapatnam
Today you will visit the famous Simachalam Temple, which is a
temple of the ‘Narasimha avatar’ and situated on the small hill on
the outskirts of Vishakhapatnam. Later you will proceed to the
airport/ railway station for your journey back home.
Sun Temple, Konark
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 63

Khajuraho Temple
Fascinating
Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh is called the “Heart of India”, not only because of its location in the
centre of the country but also because it has been home to the cultural heritage of
Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Islam. Innumerable monuments, exquisitely carved
temples, stupas, forts and palaces are dotted all over the state.
The natural beauty of Madhya Pradesh is equally varied. Consisting largely of a plateau,
the state has everything: Spectacular mountain ranges, meandering rivers and miles
& miles of dense forests, offering a unique and exciting panorama of wildlife in sylvan
surroundings.
Gwalior
Khajuraho
Bhopal
Bandhavgarh
Indore
Jabalpur
Mandu
64

Bhopal
The picturesque city of Bhopal, the
capital of Madhya Pradesh, is set
around a lake and is famous for its
archaeological wealth. It is situated on
the site of the 11 th century city Bhojapal,
named after Raja Bhoj. The founder
of the existing city was, however, an
Afghan soldier, Dost Mohammed.
Bhopal today presents a multi-faceted
profile - the old city with its teeming
market places and fine old palaces and
mosques and equally impressive, the
new city with its verdant, exquisitely laid
out parks and gardens, broad avenues
and streamlined, modern edifice.
Indore
Situated on the banks of the Rivers
Saraswati and Khan, Indore was
planned and founded by Rani Ahilyabai
Holkar and derives its name from the
18 th Century Indreshwar Temple. Indore,
today, presents a happy blend of a
historical past and a modern flourishing,
industrial city.
Gwalior
The ancient city of Gwalior is steeped
in its past splendour. A multitude of
reigning dynasties, the Pratiharas,
Kachwahas and Tomars have left
imprints of their rule, in this city of
palaces, temples and monuments.
Jabalpur
Among the larger cities of Madhya
Pradesh, Jabalpur has enjoyed
considerable importance from the
4 th century B.C. onwards. Its scenic
beauty made it the pleasure resort
of the Gond Kings. At present, the
divisional headquarters, Jabalpur is a
city of growing commercial importance,
though it is more renowned for its scenic
charms, in particular the magnificent
Marble Rocks.
Bandhavgarh National Park
The Bandhavgarh National Park, lying
in the heart of the Vindhya Mountain
Range in Central India, is a small and
compact National Park, still full of game.
The density of the tiger population
at Bandhavgarh is the highest known
in India. The centre of the park is
dominated by the majestic Bandhavgarh
Fort, around which are numerous caves
containing shrines and ancient Sanskrit
inscriptions.
Kanha National Park
Kanha’s sal and bamboo forests, rolling
grasslands and meandering streams
stretch over 940 Sq. Kms in dramatic
natural splendour. This is the original
Kipling country, of which he wrote so
vividly in “The Jungle Book”. The Kanha
National Park, forms the core of the
Kanha Tiger Reserve, created in 1974
under Project Tiger. This park is also the
only habitat of the rare hard ground
Barasingha.
Sanchi
The history of Sanchi goes back to as
early as the 3rd century B.C., when
Buddhism was at its peak during the
reign of Emperor Ashoka. Sanchi has
the singular distinction of having
specimens of almost all kinds of
Buddhist architectural forms, stupas,
chaityas, temples and monasteries and
the finest examples of Buddhist creative
art and sculpture in the country. The
architectural pieces and sculptures
displayed here include the Ashoka Pillar
and images of Buddha and Kushan.
Mandu
One of the greatest treasures of Madhya
Pradesh, the fortress town of Mandu is
perched on the southwestern edge of
the Malwa Plateau at an altitude of
2,000 feet and commands panoramic
views of the Nimar Plains below. A major
landmark of India, the place is home
to an impressive array of architectural
marvels. Called by the Malwa Sultans
as the “City of Joy,” the place is also
famous for the love of poet-prince Baz
Bahadur for his beautiful consort Rani
Roopmati.
Khajuraho
The capital of the Chandela kings,
Khajuraho is famous for its magnificent
temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord
Vishnu and the Jain Tirthankaras. These
temples were built between 950 A.D.
and 1050 A.D. and represent some of
the most exquisite specimens of art and
architecture in medieval India.
Ujjain
One of the greatest cities of ancient
India, Ujjain’s links with its glorious
past have endured into the present day,
making it a city still renowned for its
traditions of spirituality, learning and
culture. Situated on the banks of the
River Shipra, Ujjain is one of the venues
of the Kumbh Mela held every 12 years.
Maheshwar
Maheshwar, a temple town on the
banks of the River Narmada finds
mention in the epics of the Ramayana
and Mahabharata. Revived to its
ancient position of importance by the
Holkar queen Rani Ahilyabai of Indore.
Maheshwar’s temples and mighty fort
complex stand in quiet beauty, mirrored
in the river below. Today, Maheshwar is
also known for its distinctive handwoven
sarees called Maheshwaris.
Omkareshwar
Omkareshwar, the sacred island, shaped
like the holiest of all Hindu symbols,
‘Om’, has drawn to it hundreds of
generations of pilgrims. Here, at the
confluence of the Rivers Narmada and
Kaveri, the devout gather to kneel
before the “Jyotirlinga” (one of the 12
throughout India) at the temple of Shri
Omkar Mandhata.
Betwa River
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 65

Sacred Heart of
Madhya
Pradesh
To u r C o d e | I C L A 0 3 0
7 NIGHTS | 8 DAYS
Bhopal - Indore - Ujjain -
Omkareshwar - Mandu
Mandu
Indore
Bhopal
Ujjain
Stupa, Sanchi
Day 1
Arrive Bhopal
Arrive in Bhopal, The picturesque city of Bhopal, set around a
lake and is famous for its archaeological wealth. You will be met
upon arrival and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, visit
the Shamla and Idgah Hills - which offer some of the best views
of Bhopal, later visit the Shaukat Mahal designed by a French
Architect, lastly visit the elegant Sadar Manzil, Hall of Public
Audience of the former rulers of Bhopal. Rest of the evening is at
your leisure for individual activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Bhopal Sanchi - Vidisha Bhopal (70 Kms / 2 Hrs)
In the morning visit Sanchi, the only place to have the distinction
of having specimens of almost all kinds of Buddhist architectural
forms, Stupas, Chaityas, Temples and Monasteries and the finest
examples of Buddhist creative art and sculpture in the country, the
most popular being the Ashoka Pillar. Later proceed to Vidisha,
once a bustling city and important trade center in ancient times,
situated in the fork of the Betwa and Bes rivers, Vidisha includes
the ruins of a Brahmanical shrine - dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the
first known example of the use of cement in India. Overnight stay
at hotel.
Day 3
Bhopal - Bhimbetka - Bhopal
Today you will be visiting the Bhimbetka Caves, which is a UNESCO
declared World Heritage Site, there are over 700 rock shelters
belonging to the Neolithic age. Paintings in over 500 caves depict
the life of prehistoric cave dwellers. Rest of the day is at leisure for
shopping and individual activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Bhopal - Indore (190 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Today you will drive to Indore, situated on the banks of the Rivers
Saraswati and Khan, Indore was planned and founded by Rani
Ahilyabai Holkar and derives its name from the 18 th century.
Indreshwar Temple. Proceed to your hotel. In the afternoon, visit
the famous temple of Bada Ganapati and Kanch Mandir, a Jain
temple which is an architectural marvel in glass. Overnight stay
at hotel.
Day 5
Indore - Ujjain - Indore (55 Kms / 1-2 Hrs one way)
In the morning you will proceed for a full day excursion to Ujjain,
one of the greatest cities of ancient India, situated on the banks
of the river Shipra, Ujjain is one of the venues of the Kumbh Mela
held every 12 years. In the evening return to Indore. Overnight
stay at hotel.
66

Mandu
Day 6
Indore - Mandu (100 Kms / 2-3 Hrs)
Proceed by road to Mandu, Perched along the Vindhya ranges at
an altitude of 2,000 feet, with its natural defenses, was originally
the fort capital of the Parmar rulers of Malwa. Afternoon visit to
the Jahaz Mahal, a 120 meter long “ship palace” built between
the two artificial lakes, Hindola Mahal, it derives its name of
“swinging palace”. Overnight stay at hotel
Day 7
Mandu - Maheshwar - Omkareshwar - Indore
(235 Kms / 7-8 Hrs)
In the morning proceed to Maheshwar (80 Kms), glorious city
at the dawn of Indian civilization, today, Maheshwar is also
known for its distinctive handwoven sarees called Maheshwari.
Proceed to Omkareshwar (55 Kms), the sacred island, shaped like
the holiest of all Hindu symbols, ‘Om’, has drawn hundreds of
generations of pilgrims. Following the temple visit, drive to Indore
(100 Kms). Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8
Depart Indore
Transfer to airport / railway station for your journey back home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 67

Splendors of
Madhya
Pradesh
Tour Code | ICL A031
7 NIGHTS | 8 DAYS
Indore - Ujjain -
Bhopal - Pachmarhi
Indore
Bhopal
Ujjain
Pachmarhi
Bhopal
Day 1
Arrive Indore
Arrive in Indore. Situated on the banks of the Rivers Saraswati
and Khan, Indore was planned and founded by Rani Ahilyabai
Holkar and derives its name from the 18 th century Indreshwar
Temple. You will be met upon arrival and transferred to hotel. In
the afternoon you will visit the famous temple of Bada Ganapati
and Kanch Mandir, a Jain temple and an architectural marvel in
glass. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Indore - Ujjain - Indore (55 Kms / 1-2 hrs one way)
In the morning you will proceed for a full day excursion to Ujjain,
one of the greatest cities of ancient India, situated on the banks of
the river Shipra, Ujjain is one of the venues of the Kumbh Mela held
every 12 years. In the evening, return to Indore. Overnight stay at
hotel.
Day 3
Indore - Bhopal (190 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Morning you will be transferred by road to Bhopal, The
picturesque city of Bhopal, set around a lake and is famous for
its archaeological wealth. Arrive in Bhopal and proceed to your
hotel. In the afternoon, visit the Shamla and Idgah Hills, which
offer some of the best views of Bhopal, later visit the Shaukat
Mahal designed by a French Architect lastly visit the elegant Sadar
Manzil, Hall of Public Audience of the former rulers of Bhopal.
Rest of the evening is at leisure for individual activities. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 4
Bhopal - Sanchi - Vidisha - Bhopal (70 Kms / 2 Hrs)
In the morning, visit the Sanchi, only place to have the distinction
of having specimens of almost all kinds of Buddhist architectural
forms, Stupas, Chaityas, Temples and Monasteries and the finest
examples of Buddhist creative art and sculpture in the country the
most popular being the Ashoka Pillar. Later proceed to Vidisha,
once a bustling city and important trade center in ancient times,
Situated in the fork of the Betwa and Beas rivers, Vidisha include
the ruins of a Brahmanical shrine - dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the
first known example of the use of cement in India. Overnight stay
at hotel.
Day 5
Bhopal - Pachmarhi (195 Kms / 4-5 Hrs)
Morning you will be transferred by road to Pachmarhi, Madhya
Pradesh’s most verdant jewel, a place where nature has found
exquisite expression in myriad enchanting ways. Green shades
embrace the mountains, and everywhere is heard the gentle
murmur of flowing water. Bridle paths lead into tranquil forest
glades, groves of wild bamboo and jamun, dense sal forests
and delicate bamboo thickets. Arrive and proceed to your hotel,
rest of the day is at leisure to explore this wonderful hill town.
Overnight stay at hotel.
68

Chitrakoot
Day 6
Pachmarhi
Today you will proceed for a sightseeing tour of Pachmarhi, visit
the Priyadarshani point. This vantage viewing point marks the
place from where Pachmarhi was discovered by Captain Forsyth in
1857, proceed to Jamuna Prapat, a spectacular fall in the stream
which provides drinking water to Pachmarhi. Continue to visit
numerous viewpoints offering stunning scenes. Rest of the day is
at leisure for shopping and individual activities.
Day 7
Pachmarhi
This day is at leisure to explore Pachmarhi on your own.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8
Pachmarhi - Bhopal
You will be transferred back to Bhopal and proceed for your
journey back home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 69

Temple of the
Tiger
Tour Code | ICL A029
7 NIGHTS | 8 DAYS
Jabalpur - Bandhavgarh
- Khajuraho - Gwalior
Gwalior
Khajuraho
Bandhavgarh
Jabalpur
Gwalior Fort
Day 1
Arrive Jabalpur
Arrive in Jabalpur. A pleasure resort and capital of the Gond kings
during the 12 th century, Jabalpur was later the seat of the Kalchuri
dynasty. In the afternoon visit the Marble Rocks at Bhedaghat
which rise to a 100 feet on either side of the Narmada. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 2
Jabalpur - Bandhavgarh (164 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Transfer by road to Bandhavgarh, which was known as Shikargarh,
or game preserve, of the Maharajahs of Rewa and now one of
India’s best National Parks, famous for tigers and other wildlife.
Rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Bandhavgarh
Early morning and evening enjoy a game drive in the Bandhavgarh
National Park, you will have an opportunity to see tiger and other
wildlife. The great Gaur or Indian Bison, can be seen with ease.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Bandhavgarh - Khajuraho (237 Kms / 5-6 Hrs)
In the morning drive to Khajuraho, The capital of the Chandela
Kings, Khajuraho is famous for its magnificent temples dedicated
to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and the Jain Tirthankaras. In the
evening, witness a sound & light show at the famous Khajuraho
temples. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Khajuraho
Visit the World famous Khajuraho temples built by Chandela
Kings in the mid 10 th and 11 th century known for its stone
carvings and best example of Temple architecture in India. In
the afternoon, visit the Ranhe waterfalls, a beautiful picnic
spot, famous for its granite rock formations. Overnight stay
at hotel.
Day 6
Khajuraho - Gwalior (375 Kms / 8-9 Hrs)
Early this morning you will drive to Gwalior, enroute you will
stop to visit Datia known for its 7 storied palace of Raja Bir
Singh Deo & Gopeshwar Temple and Orcha, the most powerful
kingdoms of Central India in the 16 th century. Proceed to your
hotel and rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay at
hotel.
Day 7
Gwalior
In the morning proceed for a sightseeing tour of Gwalior,
visit the mighty Gwalior Fort, lastly visit the Jai Vilas Palace
and museum. Rest of the day is at leisure for shopping and
individual activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8
Depart Gwalior
Transfer to airport / railway station for your journey back home.
70

House Boat, Kerala
Charismatic
Kerala
Welcome to Kerala, God’s Own Country. With the Arabian Sea on the west and the
western ghats towering 500 - 2700 m on the east, Kerala is networked by forty-four
rivers. Kerala is a very easy place to simply sit back and enjoy. The name means land of
coconuts and palms.
Tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters, lush green hill stations and exotic wildlife,
ayurvedic health resorts, enchanting art forms, magical festivals, historic and cultural
monuments, an exotic cuisine all of which offer a unique experience. Kerala is one
of the ten ‘Paradises Found’, declared by the National Geographic Traveller for its
diverse geography and overwhelming greenery. It is a land much acclaimed for the
contemporary nature of its cultural ethos and much appreciated for the soothing,
rejuvenating paradise that it is.
Kochi
Alleppey
Munnar
Periyar
Thiruvananthapuram
Kovalam
Kanyakumari
72

Kochi (Cochin)
A city strongly influenced by the
Portuguese culture. Kochi is Kerala’s
commercial hub. You could sense its
Portuguese character during a walk
through the city when you stumble upon
the Spice markets, cantilevered Chinese
fishing nets, the Jewish Synagogue, the
church of St. Francis and the Dutch Palace.
The mesmerizing Kathakali performances
are a prominent feature of Kochi’s
cultural life. The scenic setting with the
stunning locations of the Arabian Sea
and the backwaters surrounded by palm
groves, lush green fields, the inland lakes
and the backwaters has rightly earned it
its title, ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’.
Munnar
A major centre of Kerala’s tea industry,
Munnar is situated at an altitude of
1,800 metres. Located 130 Kms east
of Kochi, it is conceived as a romantic
destination with its sublime greenery
and the cool air which is throughout
the year. It is famous for the Mattupetty
Lake, an alpine setting with green fields.
It is also a real treat for those interested
in trekking in its beautiful valleys.
Thekkady
Located 200 Kms from Kochi, it is one
of the main and largest sanctuaries of
southern India. Situated at a high altitude
of around 1,828 meters, it has a cool
climate throughout the year. Comprising
300 square miles of lush, tropical forest,
it has a vast artificial lake in the centre,
creating a natural habitat for extensive
wildlife. The best time to visit is between
the dry months of December and June.
Take a boat ride at the beautiful Periyar
Lake and for the adventurous kind, go
for a jungle trek.
Kumarakom
Situated 90 Kms from Kochi, Kumarakom
lies on the Vembanad Lake in a thick tangle
of tropical waterways. The backwaters
of Kumarakom are both the basis of
a distinct lifestyle and a fascinating
thoroughfare. Travelling by boat along
the backwaters is one of the highlights of
Kerala. Places of interest would include
a visit to the bird sanctuary, a favourite
haunt for migratory birds. In other words,
Kumarakom is a place to sit back and
watch the mirror-still lagoon, enjoy the
rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages and a
cruise ride over tranquil backwaters.
Alleppey
Located 64 Kms north of Kochi is a small
market town built around a curious maze
of bridges and canals. A prominent stop
for backwater boat rides, the tranquil
waters are lush with water hyacinth and
schools of young fish feeding near the
surface. Known more for the Snake Boat
Race that is held in August, Alleppey is
fondly referred to as the ‘Venice of the
East’.
Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)
The capital of Kerala, this coastal city is
set on seven low hills. A commercial city, it
is famous for the Sri Padmanabhaswamy
Temple (open only to the Hindus), the
Napier Museum, housing the famous
8 th -18 th century South Indian bronzes
from the Chola and Nayaka periods and
the Shri Chitra art gallery, which has an
excellent collection of Indian art. Besides
schools specializing in the martial art,
Kalarippayat, the dance and theatre
forms of Kathakali and Kutiyattam are
located here.
Kovalam
Kovalam, the beach destination 10 Kms
south of Thiruvanthapuram, comprises
4 main stretches of beaches about
400 metres long. Adventurous sorts
may indulge in popular beach activities
like snorkelling, water skiing and body
surfing. The easy-going types just laze
around at the beaches and enjoy the soft
yellow-white sands, warm clear waters
and the view of the ocean’s unending
horizon.
Kozikode (Calicut)
This coastal city is where Vasco Da Gama
first landed on Indian soil 500 years ago.
Calicut is famous for shopping for fabric
and clothes, sweets and Kerala’s typical
chips. Sightseeing would include the
Pazhassi Raja Museum, Krishnan Menon
Museum and a visit to the beach where
one may laze around and scan the sea
for jumping dolphins.
Wayanad
Wayanad, located around 60 Kms from
Calicut, is derived from the expression,
“Vayal nadu”, a village of paddy fields.
Rich in coffee and tea plantations, it is
a trekker’s paradise. Among the few
activities that one can indulge in are rock
climbing, trekking and birdwatching. The
Chembra peak, which is the highest peak
in Wayanad at 2,100 metres is a delightful
challenge to hikers. Other places of
interest would include the Edakkal
Caves, a pre-historic rock shelter formed
naturally out of a strange disposition
of three huge boulders making one to
rest on the other two, with the bottom
jutting out in between and serving as a
roof, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary,
the Sultan Battery and the Jain Temple.
Kovalam Beach, Kerala
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 73

Best of
Kerala
Tour Code | ICL A033
9 NIGHTS | 10 DAYS
Kochi - Munnar - Thekkady -
Kumarakom - Alleppey -
Kanyakumari - Kovalam -
Thiruvanthapuram
Kochi
Alleppey
Kumarakom
Munnar
Thekkady
Tea Gardens, Munnar
Kovalam
Kanyakumari
Day 1
Arrive Kochi
Arrive in Kochi, the commercial capital and Kerala’s most
cosmopolitan city, Kochi along with its mainland part, Ernakulam, is
also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea. You will be met upon
arrival and transferred to the hotel. This afternoon, you will visit the
Jewish Synagogue, the Dutch Palace and the Chinese fishing nets.
Rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Kochi - Munnar (130 Kms / 4 Hrs)
Today you will be transferred by road to Munnar. A picture-book
town with winding lanes, Munnar is one of the most exotic hill
stations of Kerala. Proceed to your hotel and rest of the day is at
leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Munnar
In the morning you will proceed on a sightseeing tour of
picturesque Munnar. Visit Raja Malai, a high peak where you
may see Neel Thars (mountain goats), and the Muttupetty Dam.
Continue your tour to Echo Point. Rest of the day is at your leisure.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Munnar - Thekkady (120 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Today you will be transferred to Thekkady, situated at an altitude
of 900-1,800 meters. The very sound of the word Thekkady
conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hills and
spice scented plantations. This evening enjoy a boat safari on the
Periyar Lake to view the varied wildlife of this region. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 5
Thekkady - Kumarakom (130 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Today you will be transferred by road to Kumarakom. Situated
on the Vembanad Lake, this small water world is an unbelievably
beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy
fields and coconut groves, interspersed with enchanting
waterways. Enroute you will stop to see the spice plantations.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Kumarakom - Kettuvalam (Houseboat)
In the morning you will board to Kettuvalam, the famous
houseboat of Kerala. Cruise through the unique of lakes, lagoons,
canals, rivers and India’s most enchanting areas - a rural, riverine
expanse of verdant coconut groves and rice fields. Overnight stay
on houseboat.
74

Onam Festival, Kerala
Day 7
Kettuvalam - Alleppey - Kanyakumari (193 Kms/ 5-6 Hrs)
This morning you will disembark at the Alleppey boat jetty and
will be transferred by road to unforgettable Kanyakumari, India’s
land end the point and where the three seas meet. Witness a
spectacular sunset over the Arabian Sea. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8
Kanyakumari - Kovalam (53 Kms / 2 Hrs)
Early this morning you will experience a magnificent sunrise over
the Bay of Bengal. Proceed by road to Kovalam, so perfect a
beach, it’s almost a picture postcard cliché with its age-old black
rocks, swaying palms, warm sands and gentle surf. Rest of the day
is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 9
Kovalam
This entire day is at leisure or take an optional sightseeing and
shopping tour of Thiruvanthapuram. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 10
Depart Kovalam (13 Kms / 30 minutes)
Transfer to Thiruvanthapuram airport / railway station for your
journey back home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 75

Experience
Kerala
Tour Code | ICL A032
6 NIGHTS | 7 DAYS
Kochi - Munnar - Thekkady -
Kumarakom - Kochi
Kochi
Munnar
Kerala Backwaters
Kumarakom
Thekkady
Day 1
Kochi - Munnar (130 Kms / 4 Hrs)
Upon arrival in Kochi, transfer to Munnar, one of the most
popular hill stations in southern India, known for its sprawling
tea gardens. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Munnar
In the morning, you will proceed on a sightseeing tour of the
picturesque Mattupetty Dam, where you have an opportunity to
go boating. Continue your tour to Echo Point. Overnight stay at
hotel.
Day 3
Munnar - Thekkady (120 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Transfer to Thekkady. Set in the heart of the Cardamom Hills of
Kerala, is the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve, offering a
rare opportunity to enjoy south India’s wildlife. Enjoy a boat safari
on Periyar lake to view the varied wildlife of this region. Overnight
stay at hotel (Boat safari charges on direct payment).
Day 5
Kumarakom
The day is at leisure, to explore the backwaters, known for its
small water canals surrounded by lush green paddy fields and
swaying palms or pamper yourself with some Ayurvedic beauty
treatments. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Kumarakom - Kochi (90 Kms / 2 Hrs)
Transfer by road to Kochi, the gateway to ‘God’s Own Country’.
This afternoon you visit the Jewish Synagogue and the Dutch
Palace and end your tour with a visit to the Chinese fishing nets.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7
Depart Kochi
Transfer from your hotel to airport / railway station for your
journey back home.
Day 4
Thekkady - Kumarakom (130 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Today you will be transferred by road to Kumarakom, a charming
village on the Vembanad Lake and enroute you will stop to see
the spice plantations. Proceed to your island home in time to view
the spectacular sunset. Overnight stay at hotel.
76

Spectacular
Malabar
Tour Code | ICL A034
6 NIGHTS | 7 DAYS
Athirapally - Valparai -
Pollachi - Perumal Malai
Kochi
Valaparai
Athirapally
Perumal Malai
Chinese Fishing Net
Day 1
Cochin - Athirapally (70 Kms / 2 hours)
Meet and assist on arrival at Cochin airport and transfer to
Athirapally - the land of rivers, forests and great waterfalls.
Located at the entrance to the Sholayar ranges; this 80 ft high
waterfall is a popular picnic spot. Arrive and proceed to your
hotel, rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Athirapally
Rest of the day is at your leisure to enjoy the trek to the base of
the waterfall or by the poolside. Optional visit to tribal village.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Athirapally to Valparai (100 Kms / 3.30 Hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Valparai en route stop at Sholayar Dam
to enjoy the natural beauty. Valparai is located above the 3,500
ft from the sea level on the Annamalai mountain range. It stands
majestically with Green Spread Mountains and forest all around.
Arrive and check-in to your Tea Bungalow. Rest of the day at your
leisure. Overnight stay at the cottage / hotel.
Day 4
Valparai - Pollachi (90 Kms / 2.30 hours)
Morning at leisure. In the afternoon, drive to Pollachi and check-in
at a Farm Bungalow. Overnight stay at cottage / bungalow / hotel.
Day 5
Pollachi
Full day wildlife safari to the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary - it
lies in the Annamala Hills, south of Palakkad Gap in the Western
Ghats. The area is hilly and rocky, drained by several rivers. Thickly
forested with strands of Bamboo, Sandalwood, Rosewood and
Teak, the sanctuary has some marshy land and scattered patches
of grassland. The sanctuary is endowed with very rich and diverse
wildlife due to the mosaic pattern of vegetation. Overnight stay at
cottage / bungalow / hotel.
Day 6
Pollachi - Perumal Malai
(Near Kodaikanal) (160 Kms / 4.30 Hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Perumal Malai to check-in at an Eco
Farm Hotel. This eco farm hotel is a 100 acres nature reserve and
organic farm welcoming eco-tourists and nature lovers all year
round. It is located in the Palni Hills, an area of the Western Ghats
in South India which is one of the 25 most important biodiversity
hotspots in the planet. Kodaikanal, the well-known hill-station is
just 20 Kms away. Rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay
at Eco Farm hotel / cottage.
Day 7
Perumal Malai - Madurai (130 Kms / 4 hours)
Departure in time to the Madurai airport to connect onto your
flight for your journey back home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 77

Nandi Bull - Chamundi Hill, Mysore
Captivating
Karnataka
Karnataka, popularly known for Carnatic music, has given much more to the world.
Carnatic music, a unique form of classical music which is loved by many across the
continents. Karnataka, with all its richness in culture and traditional grandeur, is also
one of the fastest growing states in terms of industries and facilities. Karnataka is also
known as the capital of agarbatti (incense sticks), arecanut, silk, coffee and sandalwood.
All this is apart from the fact that it has been a culture center of hundreds of years and
to its testimony, pulling millions of tourists from all parts of the world to Karnataka.
Coorg
Bangalore
Kabini
Ooty
Mysore
78

Bangalore
The capital of Karnataka and India’s
sixth largest city, it is called the “Garden
City” because of its numerous parks
and avenues of gulmohar and cassia.
Colloquially known as the Silicon city, it
is also famous for its vibrant nightlife,
with trendy pubs, clubs and fast food
joints. M.G. Road and Brigade Road
are a shopper’s heaven. Situated 1,000
metres above the sea level, Bangalore
is cool throughout the year. The mustvisit
places in Bangalore are the splendid
Botanical Gardens, the 16 th century Bull
Temple - which has the fourth-largest
Nandi Bull in India, the State Secretariat
Building, the Vidhana Soudha and
ISKCON (The International Society of
Krishna Consciousness).
Mysore
Mysore is a charming, old-fashioned
and undaunting town of palatial
buildings, beautiful gardens and treelined
boulevards. Karnataka’s second
largest city, it is famous for sandalwood
and the royal palaces. Located at a
high altitude of 770 metres, it enjoys a
pleasant climate throughout the year.
The must visit places would be the
Brindavan Gardens, Maharaja’s Palace,
Chamundi Hills and the Mysore Zoo.
Ooty
Ooty known as the Queen of Hill
stations, it is located at an altitude of
2,308 metres. Nestled in the Nilgiri
Hills amidst tea gardens and pine and
eucalyptus trees it is famous for its
eucalyptus oils and the mouth-watering
homemade chocolates. The must-visit
places in Ooty would be the Botanical
Garden which houses a variety of
plants, the small but picturesque Ooty
Lake with boating facilities and the
Dodabetta Peak (about 3,000 metres
high) - the highest peak in the Nilgiris.
Coorg
The hilly region of Coorg lies 100 Kms
west of Mysore. The countryside is
idyllic and the climate is delightfully
and refreshingly cool. One of the most
unspoiled regions, it is an absolute
delight to the mountain walker.
One can hike from the rice-fields
to the low-land jungles up through
the coffee plantations. Sit back and
enjoy a panoramic view of the coffee
plantations and even enjoy a cup of
freshly brewed coffee.
Kabini
A tributary of the river Kaveri, it is located
near the Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuary,
which is spread over 55 acres of land.
Movement over here is restricted to
elephant rides, open jeep safaris or on
foot. Among the various activities one
can indulge in are cycle rides, coracle
rides, nature walks and bird watching.
Accessible throughout the year, the best
time to visit is between November and
June.
Coonoor
Located 19 Kms from Ooty, Coonoor
is smaller and enjoys a milder climate
as compared to Ooty. However it is
a pleasant place to relax and enjoy a
picturesque view of the terraced tea
plantations. Places to visit would be
the Japanese style Sims Park Botanical
Gardens in Dolphin’s Nose and Lamb’s
Rock.
Vidhana Soudha
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 79

Last Empire
Karnataka
Tour Code | ICL A035
5 NIGHTS | 6 DAYS
Hampi - Badami -
Aihole - Pattadakal
Badami
Hampi
Aihole
Badami
Ooty
Day 1
Belgaum - Hampi (190 Kms / 4-5 Hrs)
Arrive in Belgaum. You will be met upon arrival and transferred to
Hampi, the seat of the famed Vijayanagara empire, which was the
capital of the largest empire in post-mogul India, covering several
states. Although in ruins today, this capital city once boasted
riches known far beyond the shores of India. Arrive and proceed
to your hotel. Rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay at
hotel.
Day 2
Hampi
This morning you will visit the ruins of Hampi, the Virupaksha
Temple which rises majestically at the western end of the famous
Hampi Bazaar. The temple has a 120 feet tall tower on its eastern
entrance. The temple contains the shrines of Shiva, Pampa and
Bhuvaneswari. Parts of this temple are older than the Vijayanagara
kingdom itself. Also visit the famous Vithala temple complex with
its 56 musical pillars - undoubtedly the most splendid monument
of Hampi Complex. To the east of the hall is the famous Stone
Chariot with stone wheels that actually revolve. Rest of the day is
at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Hampi - Badami (130 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Today you will be transferred by road to Badami, the one time
capital of the Chalukyas, is noted of several temples, some
structural and other rock-cut, of the 6 th & 7 th Centuries. The
foundations of Badami, or Vatapi as it was called, were laid by
Pulakeshin I (535 - 566 A.D.), his son Kirtivarman the 1 st (567 -
598 A.D.), beautified the town with temples and other buildings.
Arrive and proceed to your hotel.
In the afternoon, you will visit the group of 4 cave temples,
which have been carved out of the hill opposite Badami fort.
The Chalukyan King, Mangalesa (598-610 A.D.) was responsible
for the completion of these cave temples. Of the four, three are
Brahmanical, while the fourth is Jain. Nearly 2000 steps have to
be climbed to reach the cave. You will also visit the Badami Fort,
Strategically situated on top of the hill, the fort encloses large
granaries, a treasury impressive temples on top of the northern
end of the hill. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Badami - Aihole - Pattadakal - Badami
Today you will visit Aihole (46 Kms / 1 hour), capital of the early
Chalukyan dynasty (6 th to 8 th century). Aihole is a picturesque village
on the banks of the Malaprabha River. Variously called Ayyavole
& Aryapura in the inscriptions, Aihole is historically famous as
the cradle of Hindu temple architecture. Proceed to pattadakal,
80

Hampi
popular for Chalukyan architectural activities but also a holy place
for royal coronation, ‘Pattadakisuvolal’. Temples constructed here
mark the blending of the Rekha, Nagara, Prasada and the Dravida
Vimana styles of temple building. Visit the world famous temple
of Sangamesvara built by Vijayaditya Satyasraya (697-733 A.D.).
Rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Badami
This day is at leisure to explore world heritage sites again.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Badami - Belgaum (160 Kms / 4-5 hrs)
You will be transferred to Belgaum for your journey back home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 81

Classical
Karnataka
Tour Code | ICL A0036
6 NIGHTS | 7 DAYS
Bangalore - Mysore - Ooty -
Coimbatore / Bangalore
Bangalore
Vidhana Soudha
Mysore
Ooty
Day 1
Arrive Bangalore
Arrive and transfer to your hotel. This afternoon you visit the Lal
Baugh Botanical Gardens, the 16 th century Bull Temple and drive
past the Vidhan Saudha. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Bangalore - Mysore (120 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Transfer by road to Mysore, enroute you visit the Shravanbelagola,
home to the massive 18 m monolithic Gomateshwara (or Bahubali)
statue. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Mysore
In the morning, you will visit the Mysore Palace, known for its
veritable treasure trove of exquisite carvings and works of art
from the world over, the Chamundi Hills for a panoramic view
of Mysore city and the Rajendra Art Gallery, which houses a
remarkable selections, of paintings by Raja Ravi Verma. The
evening is at leisure for shopping for some of Mysore’s famous
silks and fabrics. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Ooty
In the morning, you will visit the Doddabetta Peak, the highest
peak in the Nilgiri mountains, the beautifully landscaped
Botanical Gardens and the scenic Ooty lake where you may enjoy
an optional boat ride. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Ooty
Day is at leisure or take an optional excursion to Coonoor to visit
the sprawling tea gardens. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7
Depart Ooty
Transfer to airport / railway station at Coimbatore or Bangalore for
your journey back home.
Day 4
Mysore - Ooty (158 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Transfer by road to Ooty, the Queen of Hill stations. The rest of the
day is at leisure to explore this picturesque hill station. Overnight
stay at hotel.
82

Scenic
South
Tour Code | ICL A037
7 NIGHTS | 8 DAYS
Bangalore - Coorg - Nagarhole
- Mysore - Bangalore
Coorg
Nagarhole
Bangalore
Mysore
Mysore Palace
Day 1
Bangalore - Coorg (260 Kms / 7-8 Hrs)
Arrive in Bangalore and transfer to Coorg, a virtual paradise on
earth crowned with glorious mist-cloaked hills and graced with
tiny springs of coffee. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Coorg
The day is at leisure for local sightseeing or optionally you may
visit a coffee plantation. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Coorg - Nagarhole National Park (120 Kms / 3-4 hours)
In the morning you will drive to the Nagarhole National Park, once
the hunting ground of the Maharaja it is spread along the banks
of the broad Kabini river. This park is rich with wildlife and dawn
and dusk jeep tours are likely to ensure spotting of some exotic
wildlife and flora & fauna. In the evening enjoy a game drive in the
sanctuary. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Nagarhole National Park
Full day is at leisure. You may enjoy an optional jeep / elephant
ride in the jungle, a coracle ride on the Kabini river. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 5
Nagarhole National Park - Mysore (100 Kms / 2-3 Hrs)
Transfer by road to Mysore, a city of palaces, gardens, tree
avenues and sacred temples. Proceed to your hotel and rest of
the day at leisure for shopping and individual activities. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 6
Mysore
This morning proceed on a city tour of Mysore. Visit the
magnificent Maharaja’s Palace, built in Indo-Saracenic, later
proceed to the Chamundi Hills, a prominent landmark, located
at the outskirts of the city. Also visit the Art Gallery which houses
a fine collection of old paintings and musical instruments. This
evening, visit the beautiful Vrindavan Gardens, known for its
landscaping and water fountains. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7
Mysore - Bangalore (120 Kms / 3 Hrs)
Transfer by road to Bangalore, the Garden City, founded in 1120
A.D. by the Chola King. Proceed to your hotel and rest of the day
is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8
Depart Bangalore
Transfer to airport / railway station for your journey back home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 83

Spectacular
South
Tour Code | ICL A038
Coorg
6 N I G H T S | 7 D AY S
B a n g a l o r e - M y s o r e - C o o r g -
Wayanad - C a l i c u t
Wayanad
Calicut
Coorg
Munnar
Day 1
Arrive Bangalore - Mysore (150 Kms / 4 Hrs)
Arrive in Bangalore and proceed to Mysore. Upon arrival, transfer
to your hotel. This afternoon proceed on a city tour of Mysore,
visiting the magnificent Maharaja’s Palace, Chamundi Hills and
the Art Gallery which houses a fine collection of paintings and
musical instruments. In the evening, you may take an optional
tour of the beautiful Vrindavan Gardens. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Mysore - Coorg (120 Kms / 2.5 Hrs)
In the morning you will proceed to Coorg, a virtual paradise on
earth, crowned with glorious mist-cloaked hills and graced with
coffee plantations. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Coorg
Day is at leisure to explore this stunning hill retreat. You may
optionally visit the nearby Dubare elephant camp or a Buddhist
monastery and handicraft center. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Coorg - Wayanad (200 Kms / 4-5 Hrs)
Transfer to Wayanad, home to exotic legends and ancient mountain
caves, jungle trails and exotic wildlife. Being traditionally more or
less isolated from the rest of Kerala, the region has a distinctive
character of its own. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Wayanad
In the morning, you will proceed on a sightseeing tour of
Wayanad, visiting the Chain Tree, Neelimala View Point, Sultan
Battery, Jain Temple and Edakkal Caves. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7
Wayanad - Calicut (65 Kms / 2.5 Hrs)
Transfer to Calicut (Kozikode) airport / railway station for your
journey back home.
Day 4
Coorg
This day is at leisure to relax in your resort or you may optionally
visit a coffee plantation. Overnight stay at hotel.
84

Arunachaleswar Temple
Dazzling
Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu is a tourist paradise whose richness and hospitality cannot be captured
in words but can only be experienced. A glorious culture. A rich tapestry of history. A
nature’s paradise of blue beaches and clear skies. A modern state. You can revel on the
Marina beach or go cruising in the theme parks or let your mind rest peacefully in the
midst of magnificent temples. Holidaying in Tamil Nadu will soothe your feelings and let
you carry home happy memories. Come to this land to enjoy the splendour.
Ooty
Kodaikanal
Madurai
86

Kodaikanal
A quiet and charming hill station, it
has developed into a ‘romantic’ resort.
Lying at an altitude of more than 2,000
meters, it offers breathtaking views
of flower-filled gardens and the Kodai
Lake. Perched away from the traffic and
the noise, this is a place for strolls, and
bike & boat rides. Places worth a visit
are the Coaker’s Walk, the Pillar’s Rock
and the Kodai Lake.
Chennai
The capital of Tamil Nadu is India’s
fourth largest city. It boasts of fine
specimens of British architecture
and plentiful music and dance
performances. Inspired by the Dravidian
civilization, though a commercial
city, it has not lost its simple charm
and has therefore grown as a popular
tourist destination. Places worth a visit
are the Kapaleshwar Temple, Fort St.
George, the Government Museum and
Dakshinchitra.
Mahabalipuram
Located 55 Kms from Chennai, this
former capital of the Pallava Kings
was used as a workshop for their
temple building schemes. One can
see the earliest examples of Dravidian
architecture in the seven ‘rathas’, or
the temple chariots, and the seven
Pagoda Temples (of which only one
remains) that were built here. Pleasant
throughout the year, it is most pleasant
during winter. One can take an
excursion to Kanchipuram, one of the
seven sacred cities of India, to visit the
Kailashnatha Temple, and shop for the
famous Kanchipuram silks.
Trichy
Located 100 Kms north of Madurai, it
lies nestled between the Shevaroy and
the Palani Hills and the banks of River
Kaveri. Briefly ruled by the Pandyas
and the Pallavas, it is today a blend
of history, A pilgrimage place and a
thriving commercial city. Places worth a
visit are the Rock Fort and the temple in
Srirangam known as Ranganathaswamy.
Tanjore
Referred to as the Rice Bowl of Tamil
Nadu, it has the distinction of having
been the capital of the Cholas. The
Cholas were great temple builders and
Tanjore bears witness to this, with no
fewer than 74 temples, the most famous
being the Brahadeeshwarar Temple,
now a world heritage monument. Other
places worth a visit are, The Rajaraja
Museum and Art Gallery, the Royal
Palace and the Art Village.
Pondicherry
A union territory of India, it has a
strong French influence. It presents
an unusual combination of European
culture and Indian traditions. The
must-visit places are the Pondicherry
Museum, Sri Aurobindo Ashram and
the idyllic beaches. An added attraction
is Auroville, which is an oasis of peace
and enlightenment. Pondicherry is a
peaceful, fairly prosperous place with a
happy atmosphere.
Madurai
Madurai, the sacred site and special
abode of the Goddess Meenakshi, it
is one of the most important centers
of worship and commerce. Although
surrounded by a sea of modern concrete
cubes, the massive gopuras of this vast
complex, writhing with multi-coloured
mythological figures and crowned by
golden finials, remains the greatest
man-made spectacle of the south.
Pleasant throughout the year, the
climate is most favourable in winter. A
must-visit is the Meenakshi Temple and
the Tirumal Nayak Palace.
Rameshwaram
An island hallowed by Ramayana, it is
said that a devotee visiting Varanasi
has to visit Rameshwaram to get his
prayers answered. Located 173 Kms
from Madurai, it is sacred to both the
Shaivites and the Vaishnavites. Places to
visit are the Ramanathaswamy Temple,
one of the 12 “Jyotirlinga” shrines in the
country, the Gandhamadana Parvatam,
which has a footprint believed to
be of Lord Rama, and the Perumal
Temple. One can also indulge in coral
sightseeing.
Kanyakumari
Kanyakumari, the land’s end of India, is
a meeting point of the three great seas
- the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea and
the Bay of Bengal. A spell-binding scene
which attracts tourists in large numbers
is the unique sunrise and the sunset
which is most spectacular at full moon,
when sunset and moonrise take place
simultaneously. Places worth a visit
are the Kanyakumari Temple dedicated
to Parasakthi, the virgin goddess, the
Swami Vivekananda Memorial, which
soars on a rocky island 200 metres from
the shoreline and the Gandhi Memorial,
where Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes are
kept for public viewing.
Kanyakumari
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 87

Hills of
Tamil Nadu
Tour Code | ICLA038
6 NIGHTS | 7 DAYS
Coimbatore - Ooty - Kodaikanal
- Madurai / Coimbatore
Ooty
Kodaikanal
Madurai
Kodaikanal
Day 1
Coimbatore - Ooty (90 Kms / 2 Hrs)
Arrive in Coimbatore. Transfer by road to Ooty. With its beautiful
gardens, wooden rolling hills, pine and eucalyptus forests and
cool climate it is rightly called the Queen of Hill Stations. The rest
of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Ooty
Today go on a city tour of Ooty visiting the Botanical Gardens,
known for its exotic plants and colourfully laid out ornamental
gardens, the Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the Nilgiri
Mountains, and the beautiful Ooty Lake, where you can enjoy an
optional boat ride. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Ooty
This day is at leisure or take an optional full day excursion to
Coonoor, to visit the tea gardens and tea factory. Overnight stay
at hotel.
Day 5
Kodaikanal
Today you will visit the Shenbaganur Museum, which houses one
of the best orchid collections in India, the Coaker’s Walk on the
steep southern face of the Kodai Ridge with its Telescope House
and the picturesque Kodai Lake. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Kodaikanal
Full day at leisure to relax in your cozy resort or participate in
the various recreational activities provided by it. Overnight stay
at hotel.
Day 7
Kodaikanal - Madurai (120 Kms / 2-3 Hrs)
Today you will be transferred to Madurai (120 Kms / 3 hrs)
Coimbatore (170 Kms / 4-5 Hrs) airport / railway station for your
journey back home.
Day 4
Ooty - Kodaikanal (185 Kms / 6-7 Hrs)
In the morning you proceed to Kodaikanal, a charming hill station
amidst sylvan beauty, on the southern crest of the upper Palani
Hills. Overnight stay at hotel.
88

Temple Towns of
Tamil Nadu
Tour Code | ICL A039
7 NIGHTS | 8 DAYS
Chennai - Mahabalipuram -
Pondicherr y - Tanjore -
Madurai
Chennai
Mahabalipuram
Pondicherry
Tanjore
Seashore Temple, Mahabalipuram
Madurai
Day 1
Arrive Chennai
Upon arrival in Chennai, transfer to your hotel. Afternoon
proceed on a sightseeing tour of the city, visiting the Kapaleshwar
Temple, Fort St. George and the Government Museum. The
rest of the evening is at your leisure or optionally you may visit
‘Dakshinchitra’. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Chennai - Mahabalipuram - Kanchipuram (65 Kms / 1-2 Hrs)
Today go on an excursion to the famous Shore Temples of
Mahabalipuram, which are the most outstanding examples of
Dravidian art and architecture later visit the famous Kailashnatha
Temple at Kanchipuram. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Mahabalipuram
Full day at leisure to relax in your resort or on the beaches of
Mahabalipuram. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry (132 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Today you will drive to Pondicherry, capital of the French colonies
in India since the 17th century. This afternoon, visit the Arobindo
Ashram, a seat of learning and Vedic culture since ancient
times. Proceed to Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, noted for
its Gothic architecture and stained glass panels, lastly you will
visit Auroville, the planned city of the Dawn of the New world.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Pondicherry - Tanjore - Trichy (210 Kms / 4-5 Hrs)
Proceed to Trichy by road, enroute visiting the world famous
Brihadeshwara Temple at Tanjore. This afternoon you will visit the
famous Rock Fort, which is a landmark of Trichy. Lastly visit the
Srirangam Island, a living example of the ancient temple towns of
the south. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Trichy - Madurai (142 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
In the morning you will drive to Madurai. Southern India’s oldest
city, with a recorded history going back to the 6th century B.C.
This afternoon you will visit the ruins of the Tirumal Nayak Palace
and the world famous Meenakshi Temple, the most perfect
example of Dravidian architecture. Later this evening you may
revisit the Temple for the evening “Aarti” ceremony. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 7
Madurai
Day at leisure or you may take an optional full day excursion to
Rameshwaram. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8
Depart Madurai
Transfer to airport / railway station for your journey back home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 89

Thimphu Dzong
Splendid
Bhutan
Bhutan is a country nestled in the eastern Himalayas. The country has been visited by a
large number of saints, mystics, scholars and pilgrims over the centuries, who not only
came for their personal elucidation, but also blessed the land and its people with an
invaluable spiritual and cultural legacy that has shaped every facet of Bhutanese lives.
Visitors and guests to the country will be surprised that the culture and the traditional
lifestyle is still richly intact, to the degree at which it permeates all strands of modern
day secular life.
From the traditional woven garments to the prayer flags on the high mountain slopes,
from the built environment to the natural environment, from the religious mask dances
to the folk dances, this cultural heritage is proudly evident and offers a unique cultural
setting. Bhutan is an ancient kingdom, secluded high in the Himalayas, with unique
customs and people with deeply held beliefs.
Punakha
Paro
Thimpu
Trongsa
Bumthang
90

Thimpu
Thimphu became a town in 1961 and
grew as the capital of Bhutan. Before
1960, Thimphu was a small settlement
but was developed by the King Jigme
Dorje Wangchuk to replace the ancient
capital of Punakha. Today the city
sprawls across the western slopes of
the Wang Chuu river valley, with several
government offices located around
Tashichoe Dzong. Rapid expansion
following the pattern of rural exodus
has resulted in considerable rebuilding
in the city centre and mushrooming
suburban development elsewhere.
Norzin Lam, the recently upgraded
main thoroughfare, is lined with shops,
restaurants, retail arcades and public
buildings.
Paro
Bhutan’s major town and only airport
Bhutan is located in Paro. Known for
Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery
overlooking the valley has a long history.
A monastery was first built on the site
by Padma Sambhava at the beginning of
the 10 th century, but it wasn’t until 1646
that Ngawang Namgyal built a larger
monastery on the old foundations and
for centuries this imposing five storey
building served as an effective defence
against numerous invasion attempts by
the Tibetans. Built with stones instead
of clay, the Dzong was named Rinpung,
meaning “heaps of jewels” but Rinpung
and all its treasures were destroyed
by the fire in 1907. Only one Thangka,
known as Thongdel, was saved.
Punakha
Punakha is the administrative centre
of Punakha Dzongkhag, one of the
20 districts of Bhutan. Punakha was
the capital of Bhutan and the seat of
government until 1955, when the capital
was moved to Thimphu. It is about 72
Km away from Thimphu and it takes
about 3 hours by car from the capital
Thimphu. Unlike Thimphu, it is quite
warm in winter and hot in summer. It is
located at an elevation of 1,200 metres
above sea level and rice is grown as the
main crop along the river valleys of two
main rivers of Bhutan, the Pho Chu and
Mo Chu. Dzongkha is widely spoken in
this district.
Trongsa
Trongsa, previously Tongsa, is a town
and capital of Trongsa District in central
Bhutan. The name means “new village”
in Dzongkha. The first temple was built
in 1543 by the Drukpa Kagyu lama,
Ngagi Wangchuk, who was the greatgrandfather
of Shabdrung Ngawang
Namgyel, the person who unified
Bhutan.
Punakha
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 91

Land of the
Thundering
Dragon
Tour Code | ICL A040
5 Nights | 6 Days
Paro - Thimpu -
Punakha - Paro
Paro
Thimpu
Punakha
Thimpu
Day 1
Paro - Thimpu (65 Kms / 2 Hrs)
Arrive in Paro and transfer to Thimpu. Upon arrival, transfer to
your hotel. Later in the evening, visit Tashichhodzong (after 5
p.m.). Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Thimpu
This morning visit the BBS Tower to enjoy an aerial view of the
Thimpu Valley, the Mini Zoo, the Anim Dratshang (Nunnery), the
National Library, the paper factory and the Memorial Chorten. In
the afternoon visit the School of Art and Craft, the Zangthopelri
Lhakang and the Handicrafts Emporium. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Thimpu - Punakha (77 Kms / 2-3 Hrs)
This morning transfer to Punakha. Enroute drive past Semothka
Dzong and the Dochula Pass (10,500 ft) which offers a
breathtaking view. In the afternoon visit the Punakha Dzong.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Paro
This morning visit Durugyel Dzong or the “Fort of Drupka Victory”.
This is a historical site, from the ramparts of which the Bhutanese
repelled the Tibetan invaders, time and again. Later proceed
to the Taktsang Monastery, the ‘Tiger’s Nest’ situated 3,000
feet above the valley floor. This afternoon visit Paro Dzong, the
National Museum housed in an ancient watchtower, which has
the finest collection of Tankha paintings in the world. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 6
Depart Paro
Transfer from hotel to airport for your journey back home.
Day 4
Punakha - Paro (140 Kms / 4-5 Hrs)
Today transfer to Paro via Wangdipro-drang. Afternoon is at
leisure in Paro. Overnight stay at hotel.
92

Gems of
Bhutan
To u r C o d e | I C L A 0 41
7 Nights | 8 Days
Paro - Thimpu - Trongsa -
Bumthang - Punakha - Paro
Punakha
Phunaka Monastery
Paro
Thimpu
Bumthang
Trongsa
Day 1
Paro - Thimpu (65 Kms / 2 Hrs)
Arrive in Paro and transfer to Thimpu. On a height of over 2,400
meters (8,000 feet), it is situated in a fertile valley traversed by
Wang Chhu River. Upon arrival transfer to your hotel. Later in
the evening visit Tashichhodzong (after 5 p.m.). Overnight stay
at hotel.
Day 2
Thimpu
This morning visit the BBS Tower to enjoy an aerial view of the
Thimpu Valley, the Mini Zoo, the Anim Dratshang (Nunnery), the
National Library, the paper factory and the Memorial Chorten. In
the afternoon, visit the School of Art and Craft, the Zangthopelri
Lhakang and the Handicrafts Emporium. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Thimpu - Trongsa (215 Kms / 6-7 Hrs)
Today transfer to Trongsa via Wangdue and the Pelela Pass. In the
afternoon depart on a sightseeing tour of Trongsa Dzong and Ta
Dzong. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Trongsa - Bumthang (68 Kms / 2-2.5 Hrs)
This morning transfer to Bumthang and visit Jampa Lhakhang and
Kurjey Lhakhang. Afternoon visit to Jakar Dzong and the Swiss
Farm House. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Bumthang - Punakha (210 Kms / 6-7 Hrs)
Today you proceed to Punakha, enroute you will view
Wangdiphordrang. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Punakha - Paro (130 Kms / 4-5 Hrs)
This morning visit Punakha Dzong and then proceed to Paro.
Afternoon is at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7
Paro
This morning visit Durugyel Dzong the “Fort of Drupka Victory”.
This is a historical site, from the ramparts of which the Bhutanese
repelled the Tibetan invaders, time and again. Later proceed
to the Taktsang Monastery, the ‘Tiger’s Nest’ situated 3,000
feet above the valley floor. This afternoon visit Paro Dzong, the
National Museum housed in an ancient watchtower, which has
the finest collection of Tankha paintings in the world. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 8
Depart Paro
Transfer from hotel to airport for your journey back home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 93

Bhaktapur
Prestine
Nepal
Nepal, a country with a long historic tradition is an amalgamation of a number of
medieval principalities. It is a country of amazing extremes, home of the world’s highest
mountains, historic cities and forested plains where the lordly tigers and the great onehorned
rhinoceros are at ease. In fact, enchantment is everywhere for anyone in search
of Shangrila!
Pokhara
Kathmandu
Chitwan
94

Kathmandu
The capital of the ancient mountain
kingdom of Nepal, Kathmandu has the
air of a medieval city; a maze of narrow
streets, wooden temples and beautifully
decorated palaces. In the background
there is often the gentle sound of
jangling cymbals and the markets are a
rich blend of colours and aromas. Only
in the 1950s was Nepal opened up to
visitors and today the contrast between
21 st century technology and traditional
lifestyles help to make Kathmandu, one
of the world’s most fascinating cities
Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur or Bhadgaon - The city of
Devotees is a center of medieval art
and architecture and shaped like a
conch-shell. You will visit the Nyatapolo
Temple, the tallest in Nepal and a fine
example of Nepalese architecture and
craftsmanship. King Bhupatindra Malla
built Nyatapolo, which means five
stories, in 1708. You will visit the Palace
of fifty-five windows with its famous
Barking Bell and the Golden Gate,
which is said to be the most beautiful
and richly moulded gate of its kind in
the Orient.
Patan
The City of arts and architecture
founded in 250 A.D. and also known
as Lalitpur. It is renowned for its fine
works in bronze, silver and copper.
Visit the Durbar Square, Royal Baths,
Mahaboudha, Krishna Mandir and
Hiranya Verna Mahabihar (the Golden
Temple). Also visit the Tibetan Refugee
Camp at Jawalakhel to watch the
carpet weaving operation. While in
Patan, it is worth visiting the Cottage
Crafts Exposition in Patan Industrial
Estate to see craftsmen doing exquisite
woodcarvings, weavers knotting silk
carpets and minerals being cut into
perfect gemstones for jewellery. The
exposition also markets Nepal’s finest
leather garments and bags.
Pokhara
Pokhara, 200 Kms west from
Kathmandu, sleeps peacefully alongside
a 3-kilometer long lake, almost at the
foothills of the mighty Annapurna and
the formidable virgin peak of the Fishtail
mountain. And along these very gorges
rests Fulbari Resort, a wonderfully
relaxing place, the ultimate blend of
contemporary international standards
and time-honoured traditions.
Chitwan
Chitwan is considered as one of the
richest wildlife areas in Asia and boasts
of the last and largest remaining areas
of tall grassland habitat. Considered
as one of the most spectacular wildlife
sanctuaries, it is made up of the park
alluvial floodplain at only 150 meters
above sea level, the remaining is low
hills rising to 760 meters covered with
tropical deciduous forest, dominated by
the towering sal trees.
Nepal Fishtail Mountain
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 95

Classical
Nepal
Tour Code | ICL A042
5 Nights | 6 Days
Kathmandu - Pokhara -
Kathmandu
Pokhara
Kathmandu
Chitwan
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Day 1
Arrive Kathmandu
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check-in at the hotel and relax. Day is
at leisure to explore the local markets and quaint alleys. Overnight
stay at hotel.
Day 2
Kathmandu
In the morning you will visit the Pashupatinath and Boudhnath
Temples. Pashupatinath is one of the most sacred Hindu temples
in Nepal, situated on the banks of the holy River Bagmati.
Boudhnath is possibly the world’s largest Buddhist stupa and
a site of great veneration for the Buddhists. This afternoon, go
on a city tour of Kathmandu, visiting the Kasthamandap, Darbar
Square and the Temple of Kumari, the residence of the living
Goddess, you will also visit Swayambhunath one of the world’s
most fabulous Buddhist stupas, which is said to be over 2000
years old, offering panoramic views of Kathmandu city. Overnight
stay at hotel.
explore this picturesque Himalayan town or take an optional short
trek or try your hand at mountain biking. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Pokhara
In the morning you will tour Pokhara, one of the most scenic
valleys in Nepal. View Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m), Fishtail (6,994 m),
Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) and Himalchuli (7,893 m). Enjoy a boat ride on
the Phewa Lake. Rest of the day is at leisure for shopping and your
own activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Pokhara - Kathmandu
Transfer to airport for your flight to Kathmandu. On arrival you
will be transferred to your hotel. Rest of the day is at your leisure.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Depart Kathmandu
Transfer to airport for your journey back home.
Day 3
Kathmandu - Pokhara
Transfer to airport for your flight to Pokhara. Upon arrival, you
will be transferred to your hotel. Pokhara is situated in the valley
of the Seti river and commands one of the most spectacular views
of the mountains in Nepal. The rest of the day is at your leisure to
96

Kingdom of the
Himalayas
Tour Code | ICL A043
7 Nights | 8 Days
Kathmandu - Chitwan -
Pokhara - Kathmandu
Pokhara
Kathmandu
Chitwan
Royal Chitwan National park
Day 1
Arrive Kathmandu
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check-in at the hotel and relax. Day
is at leisure to explore the local markets and quaint alleyways.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2
Kathmandu
In the morning you will visit the Pashupatinath and Boudhnath
Temples. Pashupatinath is one of the most sacred Hindu temples
in Nepal, which is situated on the banks of the holy river Bagmati.
Boudhnath is possibly the world’s largest Buddhist stupa and a
site of great veneration for the Buddhists. This afternoon go on a
city tour of Kathmandu visiting the Kasthamandap, Darbar Square
and the temple of Kumari, the residence of the living Goddess.
You also visit Swayambhunath which is said to be over 2000 years
old and one of the world’s most fabulous Buddhist stupas offering
panoramic views of Kathmandu city. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3
Kathmandu - Chitwan (185 Kms / 5 hrs)
Today drive to Chitwan one of the last settlements of the single
horned Asia rhinoceros. Later this afternoon take a jeep safari to
see the Royal Bengal tigers and the one-horned rhinos, besides
other wildlife. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 4
Chitwan
Early this morning proceed on an elephant safari for game
viewing. Later take a canoe ride to the crocodile-breeding farm
inside the park. This afternoon you will have an opportunity to see
elephants bathing. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5
Chitwan - Pokhara (113 Kms / 3 - 4 Hrs)
Today you will drive to Pokhara, the most scenic valley of the
Himalayan kingdom. Day is at leisure or take an optional short
trek or try your hand at mountain biking. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6
Pokhara
This morning you will tour Pokhara, one of the most scenic valleys
in Nepal. View Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m), Fishtail (6,994 m),
Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) and Himalchuli (7,893 m). Enjoy a boat ride
on the Phewa Lake. Rest of the day is at leisure for shopping and
your own activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 7
Pokhara - Kathmandu (200 Kms / 5 Hrs)
Drive back to Kathmandu. Day is at leisure for shopping and your
own activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 8
Depart Kathmandu
In the morning take an optional mountain flight to see Mount
Everest. Later transfer to the airport for your return flight back
home.
Call: 1800 209 3344 | www.sotc.in | 97

not just a hotel
Because hotels don’t have dogs and don’t hire people with ponytails.
They don’t cook your favourite meals or have jokes in the washroom.
Hotels don’t mix business and fun, but we at lemon tree do.
And that’s what makes us refreshingly different.
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Ahmedabad • Aurangabad • Bengaluru • Chandigarh • Chennai • Gurgaon • Goa • Hyderabad • Indore • Kaushambi • Muhamma • Pune

How to booK your Holiday
Where to Book
Your own trusted travel agents can book you on SOTC Holidays of
India. If you are booking through your Travel Agent, please make
all payments to them and they will pay us on your behalf. There is
no additional cost to you, so do take advantage of your own Travel
Agent’s professional advice and service. You can also book through
SOTC Holidays of India branch offices located across the country.
Booking Amount
You are urged to read complete details of the tour, itinerary, price
inclusions, exclusions, terms and conditions etc in the brochure
before filling and signing the official Booking Form. On payment
of the non-refundable interest free booking amount mentioned on
the booking form you will be issued an official receipt from us. The
Booking Form, Invoice and the Receipt shall be binding on the parties
and shall constitute a contract between the parties. The interest
free non-refundable booking amount paid by you will be adjusted
towards the cost of the tour. Please also refer to relevant section of
booking conditions for rules of forfeiture of booking amount.
All payments for the tour including booking amount should be made
in favour of ‘Kuoni Travel (India) Private Limited’ when you book at all
outlets including Franchisee outlets, ASO or PSA. If you book through
your own travel agent you remit just the booking amount through the
Travel Agent and pay the balance amount directly to and in the name
of Kuoni Travel (India) Private Limited.
Invoice & Balance Payment
Your invoice will mention the due date for payment of the balance tour
cost. Your travel documents and airline tickets can be released only
after receipt of full and final payment. Delay in adhering to the final
date advised to you for full payment would result in the cancellation
of your seat on the Tour and levy of Cancellation Charges. Hence
the balance payment has to reach us as per the schedule mentioned
in your Invoice or at least 30 days prior to departure of your tour
whichever is earlier.
Secure Your Booking Amount
You can secure your non-refundable booking amount by a paying
a nominal fee of Rs. 1,000 per person. In the unlikely event of you
cancelling the tour 21 days prior to the departure this scheme
protects your booking amount of Rs. 25,000 against cancellation
charges. This scheme does not cover your booking amount if the
cancellation is done under 21 days prior to the departure. Secure your
Booking amount scheme covers you for the following events only
and documentary proof may be required by company to refund your
booking amount.
• Death in the immediate family
• Major accident to self or immediate family member
• Major Sickness where travel is not permitted under medical advice
• Acts of God like Tsumani, etc.
• Terrorist activities like 9/11
• Any travel barred guidelines to the destination country by WHO like
SARS, etc.
• Any political turbulence in the destination country Kindly note that
visa rejection by Consulates /Authorities is not covered under the
scheme.
Amendments
After the initial booking on a particular tour and relative services,
in the event of any amendment you wish to make; such as change
of destination, change of departure date, addition or deletion of
services, change in passenger numbers or such other change you will
need to make a written request and obtain an acknowledgment on
the same from our sales officer. The amendments may invite further
cost which will have to be borne by you. Further such requests are
accepted by us subject to availability.
Handover of Documents
After receipt of your full and final payment, you will be delivered
our docket containing, Air Ticket, Final invoice (Tour Confirmation
Voucher) which lists services you are entitled to on the tour. You will
be provided with a briefing sheet containing important / emergency
contact details for your use. Ensure that you are carrying the above
documents and your passport with all necessary visa endorsements
before leaving on your tour.
Airline “Change in Reservation Fee”
It is absolutely necessary to have your return air seats confirmed
prior to your departure. Passengers wishing to change their return
reservations to India after departure will have to pay “Change in
Reservation Fee” directly to the airline, subject to availability of seats
in the same booking class.
Travelling in Advance and/or Returning on Your Own
We are a Packaged Tour Company and hold airline seats as a group
for passengers for the date of published departures and return
reservations back after the tour. If you wish to travel in advance i.e.
before the published departure date as mentioned in the brochure or
like to come back on date later than the date on which the tour ends,
you are required to pay the difference of cost as per the Airline policy
in the same or other Airlines.
Transfer from One Tour to Another
Transfer from one tour to another 14 days prior to the departure will be
treated as cancellation on that tour and a fresh booking on another. In
these cases, Transfer Fee of Rs.1,250/- per person will apply.
Cancellation
If you want to cancel your tour booking for any reason, you must
intimate in writing to the Company and deliver it to the concerned
officer you are dealing with at the sales outlet where you booked
and obtain an acknowledgment. The letter must clearly mention the
names of all passengers who want their bookings to be cancelled. The
computation of the period of notice of cancellation shall commence
only from the time the written request reached the Company at
its sales office during working hours. In case of cancellation, the
following cancellation charges would apply:
Cancellation Per Person (Customised tours)
When a Cancellation is made
14 days prior to the date of departure
or for non-payment of the balance amount.
Charges
Booking amount forfeited
13 to 7 days prior to your holiday travel date 50% of the tour cost
7 days to 3 days prior to your holiday travel date 75% of the tour cost
72 hours before 100% of the tour cost
30 days prior to the date of departure
or for non-payment of the balance amount
Booking amount
forfeited
29 days to 15 days prior to the tour date 25% of tour cost
14 days to 11 days prior to the tour date
D-14 To D-11 Basis :
50% of tour cost
10 days before 100 % of tour cost
Further for the purpose of this clause, cancellation can be due to any
reason whatsoever including the reason of inability to participate due
to any reason including illness, death, court orders, non-availability
of travel documents etc. As per the Booking Conditions, we are
constrained to levy the aforesaid Cancellation Charges in addition
to the actual expenditure incurred towards, retention charges by
supplier. Company reserves the right to cancel a tour departure
without assigning any reason. Under such circumstances amount paid
by you will be refunded forthwith. REFUNDS (if any) for amendments
and/or cancellations will be paid directly to you by the concerned
SOTC Outlets / Travel Agent/ Associate Sales office/ Privilege Sales
Agent through whom you have forwarded your payment to us. It
would take 45 days to process refunds. In cases where an airline
ticket is issued, it would take 60 days to process the refund subject
to clearance from the airlines concerned. It is clearly understood that
there shall be no refund whatsoever if you do not or cannot utilize any
of the services like hotels, sightseeing, rides, cruises, meals, entrance
fees, optional tours etc due to any reason whatsoever.
Suggestions
If you have any suggestion or tips which you might want to share
with us, do write in to us at Customer Care, Kuoni Travel (India)
Private Limited, 8th Floor, Tower A, Urmi Estate, 95, Ganapat Rao
Kadam Marg, Lower Parel (W), Mumbai 400 013. or email us at
customercare@sotc.in.
Images used in the brochure are for representation purpose only.
Service Tax as applicable to be paid extra on the total Tour Price