DAYS 1 – 3

Arrive in New Delhi in the evening on Day 2. The following day, afternoon sightseeing will include the highlights of Old Delhi: the magnificent Red Fort; Raj Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi; and Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Then stroll down Chandni Chowk to savor the ambience of an oriental bazaar.

Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi

DAYS 4 & 5

Fly from New Delhi to Bagdogra and continue by road to Darjeeling to see the Himalayan Institute of Mountaineering, Zoological Gardens, Tibetan Refugee Center and the Zoo. Visit a tea estate to see how tea is grown and processed, and enjoy a private tasting of the estate’s finest teas. One evening you will be a guest at a native cultural dance and music program. The next day, take an early morning excursion to Tiger Hill to witness the sunrise over the Himalayas, a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the Ghoom Buddhist Monastery.

Mayfair Hotel or New Elgin Hotel, Darjeeling

DAYS 6 & 7

The drive from Darjeeling to Gangtok is exhilarating, through green forests and picturesque landscapes, amidst tea gardens and along the Teesta River. Perched at a height of 5,500 feet, Gangtok hosts approximately 200 monasteries — oases of serenity and repositories of centuries-old wisdom. Gangtok is home to many different cultures and friendly people, as well as myriad species of plants, flowers, birds and animals. Take in the unique atmosphere of this capital city and visit the Royal Chapel and the Deer Park. You will also visit the Rumtek Monastery, the Institute of Tibetology, the Enchley Monastery, Handicraft Center and a local bazaar.

Mayfair Hotel or Nor-Khill Hotel, Gangtok

DAY 8

Nestled in the West Bengal Himalayas at 4,100 feet, Kalimpong features scenic views of mighty mountain peaks, lovely historic houses, monasteries and two storied entwining rivers, the Rangeet and the Teesta. After lunch visit the Gandhi Ashram School where you will listen to the children playing music. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Kalimpong town, including Zang Do Phelri Phobrang Monastery and the Lepcha Museum. The Lepchas are the indigenous people of the area, now a minority. The museum showcases the Lepcha culture and displays their musical instruments, manuscripts, tools and other artifacts of the culture of this vanishing tribe. In the afternoon you can stroll around a local bazaar for some shopping and people watching, then end the day with a visit to Zang Do Phelri Phobrang Monastery to witness monks praying.

Silver Oaks Hotel, Kalimpong

DAYS 9 & 10

Thimphu is a small, charming capital city in the heart of the Himalayas. Visit the memorial to the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, a traditional Bhutanese stupa, also known as a chorten. The Memorial Chorten is an impressive monument with golden spires, tinkling bells, and an endless procession of elderly people circling around it paying homage. Drive past the Tashichhodzong, a Buddhist monastery called the “Fortress of the Glorious Religion,” first constructed in 1641. Enjoy a special visit to the Institute for Zorig Chusum, which teaches 13 traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts, and observe the students practicing their crafts. Then visit the Textile & Folk Heritage Museum, a fascinating testimony of Bhutan’s living traditions. One evening, you will witness a special performance of Bhutanese folk music and dancing. Guests on the September departure will see the colorful Thimphu Festival.

Taj Tashi, Thimphu or Terma Linca Resort & Spa, Thimphu

DAY 11

Drive through the 10,500-foot-high Dochu La Pass which reveals a dramatic view of the mountain ranges in the distance. In Punakha you’ll visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 as the religious and administrative center of the region, and Khamsum Yulley Narngyal Chorten, a newly built stupa. Then see the Punakha Dzong, one of the most historic dzongs in the country, located at the confluence of two rivers. Stroll around the town’s main street, shops and local markets.

Puna Tshangchu Cottage, Punakha

DAYS 12 – 14

Paro lies in a beautiful valley with a rich culture, scenic beauty and hundreds of myths and legends. It is home to Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, as well as the National Museum. Here you will see Rinpung Dzong, “The Fortress of the Heap of Jewels” built in 1646 on a hill above the town, and Ta Dzong, the watchtower built to overlook it. Ta Dzong now holds a fascinating collection of art, relics, paintings, coins, handicrafts and a small natural history collection. Enjoy a morning excursion to Taksang Monastery, perched on the side of a high cliff. Taksang is the most famous monastery in Bhutan and the most sacred; the Bhutanese pilgrimage here once during their lifetime. Guests on the March departure will witness the Paro Tshechu, a popular religious festival. The tshechu offers the opportunity to mingle with the Bhutanese during one of their most important celebrations.

Zhiwa Ling Hotel, Paro

DAYS 15 – 17

Calcutta is one of the largest cities in the world and is the capital city of the Indian state of West Bengal. The former capital of British India, the port of Calcutta today forms the commercial and industrial hub of eastern India. Visit Mother Teresa’s Ashram and the Jain Temple. Take a walking tour of British-built Calcutta, then later visit Birla Temple. On Day 16 enjoy an early morning visit to the Flower Market. Then continue to take in the sites of Calcutta, driving past the Victoria Memorial Hall, opened in 1921 as a museum dedicated to the men who played a prominent part in the history of India. After lunch, visit Dakshinesewar and its famous Kali temple, and then Belur Math. Sprawling over several acres of land on the western banks of the river Hooghly (Ganga), Belur Math is a place of pilgrimage for people from all over the world of different religious faiths. 

On Day 17 you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight home or on to your next destination.

Taj Bengal, Calcutta or Oberoi Grand, Calcutta

DAY 17

You will be transferred to the airport for your return flight home or on to your next destination.

Package price is per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement applies. Intra-tour air pricing is subject to change. International airfare is additional. Other restrictions may apply. Contact us for complete journey details.

Taj Mahal Hotel
New Delhi, India

One of the most distinguished addresses in the national capital, the Taj Mahal Hotel is located in the exclusive residential area of Lutyens’ Delhi, close to the seat of government. The lobby includes design details reminiscent of Mughal architecture and is a veritable showcase of artifacts, with the intricate design work of the lobby’s domes and panels perfectly complimenting the calm marble fountains. From casual, all-day eateries to formal fine dining, guests can look forward to a wide selection of delectable dishes and refreshing drinks at four restaurants and two lounges. Recreation facilities include a health club and fitness center with steam baths, Jacuzzi, and sauna, gift shop, and swimming pool.

The hotel rooms are contemporary, well equipped with amenities including international direct dial telephone, wireless Internet, mini bar, a personal safe, channel music, and television with satellite programs. Travcoa guest stay in Club Rooms, which include a 24-hour invisible butler, tea, coffee and cocktails in the Taj Club lounge.

Mayfair Hotel Darjeeling
Darjeeling, India

Perched at an altitude of 7000 ft, MAYFAIR, Darjeeling is the third property of MAYFAIR family commissioned in 1997. Once the summerhouse of the former Maharaja of Nazargunj, it now stands as a hill resort. A fine combination of warm sunshine, cool breeze, alpine trees, exotic flowers of different colors and hues with extensive dining options, versatile event space, sumptuous luxury and unmatched service make MAYFAIR Darjeeling the first choice for tourists. Relax in our beautiful hill resort for complete rejuvenation of mind, body, and soul in a majestic setting and step into its timeless charm that mixes luxury, comfort, urban energy, and cutting-edge style.

Located in the lower Himalayas at an average elevation of 6,982 ft (2,134 m), it is the headquarter of Darjeeling district, During the British Raj, Darjeeling's temperate climate led to its development as a hill station (hill town) for British residents to escape the heat of the plains during summer.

Darjeeling is internationally famous for its tea industry and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tea plantations date back to the mid 19th century as part of a British development plan. The tea growers of the area developed distinctive hybrids of black tea and fermenting techniques, with many blends considered among the worlds finest. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway connecting the town with the plains was declared a World Heritage Site in 1999 and is run by steam engines a few of which are still in service in India. Darjeeling has several British-style public schools, which attract students from many parts of India and neighboring countries. The town, along with neighboring Kalimpong was a major transit route for business with Nepal and China through old mountain passes and horse tracks.

New Elgin Hotel
Darjeeling, India

A silken Khada is draped around your neck as a traditional Himalayan welcome when you enter the Elgin. The phrase “old world charm” is a palpable feeling in this quaint and charming 120-year-old residence, reminiscent of the heydays of the Raj. Here history surrounds you—the Burma teak furniture, oak floor boards and paneling, the crackling log fireplaces, the candle-lit dining tables. Experience the same style of life as the sophisticated elite who have enjoyed The Elgin’s hospitality from the time of its first owner, the Maharaja of Cooch Behar.

Features of the hotel include a game room, lounge area and a restaurant and bar. The hotel also offers Laundry and dry cleaning services.

Relax in one of the 30 heritage rooms of the mansion. Each room has a bathroom with tub, room heater, TV with satellite channels, mini bar, coffee/tea maker and room service.

Mayfair Hotel Gangtok
Gangtok, Sikkim

The first five-star deluxe hotel in the Northeast – “MAYFAIR Gangtok Spa Resort” is situated 10 km equidistant from the down town and the famous Rumtek monastery. This resort is the latest addition to the MAYFAIR Hotels & Resort’s list of treasures. The Spa Resort aspires to offer individual guests an experience of being surrounded by nature, blending it with lavish luxury in the abode of the Gods. The resort, built on the theme of monastery, has a unique blend of Sikkimese architecture and modern amenities.

The abode of the mighty Kang-chen-dzonpa and a majestic kingdom, Sikkim is beautiful in every sense of the word. Land of culturally diverse people, flora & fauna, home to unique species such as red panda, the Himalayan tahr, blue sheep, snow leopard and the Himalayan beer along with the snowy peaks, mountains, roaring white water rivers, gentle streams & mighty falls, monasteries giving solace to mind & souls, all these make Sikkim a wonderful heaven on the earth.

Nor-Khill Hotel
Gangtok, Sikkim

Nor-Khill in Sikkimese means “House of Jewels.” The King of Sikkim built the Nor-Khill Hotel in 1932 as his Royal Guest House, where he received and entertained Heads of State and dignitaries. The imposing lobby is resplendent in the bright and bold colors of the folk art that adorn its walls. From the lucky design motifs depicting dragons and flame symbols, to the thankas (or wall hangings), the ornate bachu and chocsue (or center and side tables), the regal look of yester year has been proudly preserved. The Jewel Garden has rare varieties of orchids, shrubs and roses.

The hotel has 32 rooms, each of which is quiet, elegant and traditional. All the rooms are spacious and over look Mount Kanchenjungha and the Himalayas. Room features include international dialing telephone, TV, room service and a laundry service.

Silver Oaks Hotel
Kalimpong, Sikkim

A grand colonial structure in Kalimpong, the Hotel Silver Oaks offers a wonderful view of the snow clad Kanchenjunga. The landscaped gardens surrounding the sloping roofed, glass paned grand building that houses the hotel itself is a feast for the eyes.

Hotel features include a game room, small business center, and a multi-cuisine restaurant with wooden flooring, an old fireplace and a piano offers a cozy ambience and an amazing view.

The elegant 25 rooms have colonial furnishings that offer comfort and luxury. Each room is equipped with amenities including private bath, room heater, TV with satellite channels, mini bar and a tea/coffee maker.

Taj Tashi
Thimphu, Bhutan

Set in the heart of the Thimphu Valley, the Taj Tashi, is a blend of Bhutan’s Dzong architecture and modern design. While enjoying breathtaking views of the mountains that rise above the Thimphu valley, guests can sample Bhutan’s fiery cuisine, and gaze at the mesmerizing prayer wheels through its panoramic windows. Other warm and invigorating features at the hotel include an indoor heated swimming pool, fitness center and the elaborate Taj Spa, with its special “Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath.”

Adorned with classical hand-drawn Buddhist murals, the 66 elegant guestrooms are adorned with swirls of hand-painted murals of clouds (a recurring motif in Bhutanese art), and take in sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Elegant, expansive and luxuriously appointed, these spacious rooms with large bathrooms afford guests tantalizing views of the pine-topped mountains. Accompanying bathrooms feature fine fittings and amenities like floor warmers and bath-towel heaters.

Puna Tshangchu Cottage
Punakha, Bhutan

The Puna Tshangchu Cottage is a blend of luxury and tradition. Situated at the bank of Puna Tshangchu River with fascinating views, the hotel has a traditional Bhutanese design as its external structure. The restaurant and bar serves both continental and Bhutanese dishes with range of spirits and wine. All the staff are trained to ensure top quality service—one of the trademarks of this hotel.

Each of the 22 elegant large rooms are modern and well appointed. Amenities include an attached bath with running hot and cold water, IDD phone and TV.

Zhiwa Ling Hotel
Paro, Bhutan

The 45-room Zhiwa Ling combines the sensibilities of a fine Bhutanese guesthouse with 21st Century technology. Envisioned and created by a local Bhutanese company, the hotel’s elaborate hand-carved wooden cornices and masterful stonework coexist beautifully with cutting-edge telecommunication systems and Swedish under-floor heating.

The spa offers all the amenities of a modern fitness center—sauna, steam room, gym as well as a traditional Bhutanese outdoor hot-stone bath. There is a Business Center, and a Tea House, a Meditation House and a lounge. One restaurant specializes in contemporary international cuisine, the other classic Bhutanese dishes.

Honoring the spiritual heritage of this ancient Buddhist kingdom, a temple has been built into the second floor of the hotel, made with 450-year-old timbers from the famous Gangtey Monastery, the crowning glory of this new ten-acre cultural landmark in the quiet Paro Valley where Zhiwa Ling fully lives up to its name: Place of Peace.

Your Magnolia Junior Suite has splendid views all around. There is a sitting area with leather sofas and a private balcony. All these suites are located on the ground floor or the first floors of the cottage buildings. Room facilities include WI FI Internet connection, in-room safe, mini bar, Cable TV with DVD player, Room service and a tea/coffee maker.

Taj Bengal
Calcutta, Bhutan

Taj Bengal’s 228 rooms & suites showcase traditional décor, art & heritage. Amenities include direct, dial, wireless internet access, electronic safes, and satellite TV with international channels, tea/coffee makers & DVD players. Select rooms at this property are designated as Green Rooms as part of our EARTH initiative and can be requested by entering 'Green Room Preferred' in the Special Request field during the reservation process. Taj InnerCircle members will receive 15% extra Taj InnerCircle Points with stay in a Green Room.

Amber Medkiff

Amber speaks French, Italian and Spanish, and is a member of the Italian Institute and the French Institute of San Francisco, where she resides. She has published a travel article on Italy and was the subject of a Condé Nast Travel magazine article titled “How to Travel Like a Millionaire.” She has conducted travel programs all over the world for 18 years.

Travel Dates: September 15, 2012