DAYS 1 – 4

Arrive in New Delhi, a magical fusion of ancient and modern cultures, in the late evening of Day 2. In New Delhi visit the landmark Qutb Minar tower, Parliament House, and the official residence of the President of India. Reflecting the city’s Mughal past, Old New Delhi takes you through the labyrinthine streets passing by elaborate mosques, majestic monuments and colorful bazaars. Visits include the 17th-century Red Fort, India’s largest mosque, Mahatma Gandhi’s Memorial and the National Museum.

Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi

DAY 5

Explore Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world. Varanasi is known for being the site where Buddha preached his very first sermon. The holiest of all the Indian rivers, the Ganges, flows through here, and you will witness the sacred cleansing rituals of thousands of pilgrims on the west bank of the river.

Taj Ganges, Varanasi

DAYS 6 & 7

Experience an early morning Varanasi boat cruise on the Ganges and witness the rituals performed on the banks of this sacred river. In Khajuraho, you will visit the Eastern and Western Group of Temples, including the Ghantai Temple; the Vamana Temple, dedicated to the “Vamana,” or dwarf incarnation of Lord Vishnu; and the Javari Temple. There are also three Jain Temples here, featuring beautiful carvings and sculptures of Vaishnav deities. In the evening, enjoy a sound and light show.

Taj Chandela, Khajuraho

DAYS 8 & 9

Travel by road to Orchha, a well-preserved medieval city with palaces and temples built by the Bundela Rulers in the 16th and 17th centuries. A highlight will be Jahangir Mahal, a tiered palace crowned by graceful Chhatris, which commands a spectacular view of soaring temple spires and cenotaphs. Later, board the Shatabdi Express to Agra. 

Agra's renowned Taj Mahal is the ultimate requiem to love. This perfectly proportioned masterpiece in white marble was built by 20,000 craftsmen from all over Asia and Europe and took 17 years to complete. Experience the Taj Mahal at sunrise and sunset from your room.

Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

DAYS 10 & 11

In the morning drive to Fatehpur Sikri. This magnificent fortified city was the capital of the Mughal Empire between 1571 and 1585. You will see the Halls of Public and Private Audiences, the Tower of Victory, and the Tomb of Salim Christi, which is laced with mother-of-pearl. Continue driving to Bharatpur and the rail station for your train to Sawai Madhopur, near to Ranthambhore, which is hailed as one of India’s finest wildlife destinations. 

Ranthambhore National Park derives its name from an 11th-century fort, of which the remnants of summer palaces and temples still stand. It is famous for its elusive tigers and is a favorite with photographers. Tigers may be spotted during the day while stalking, hunting, or taking care of their young. On Day 11 you will have morning and afternoon game drives. The park has a rich diversity of flora and fauna. In addition to the tiger, other predators found in the park include leopards, striped hyenas, jackals, caracals, jungle cats and more.

Oberoi Vanyavilas, Ranthambhore

DAYS 12 & 13

Continue by road to the famed “Pink City” of Jaipur — universally renowned for its beautiful palaces and buildings — and enjoy a visit to the spectacular Amber Fort. A highlight of your stay in Jaipur is an elephant safari conducted in the natural and serene area surrounding the camp of Dera Amer. After a welcome drink and feeding the elephants, guests are seated with a maximum of two per elephant and sent on a picturesque track following a local tribal guide passing by village hutments, fields, medieval fortress (lit by mashals at night) and monuments. Finally, arrive at the camp situated in the middle of the forest to a grand welcome and private dinner.

The Rambagh Palace or Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur

DAYS 14 & 15

One of the most romantic cities in the world, Udaipur is known as “the Venice of the East.” Visit the City Palace built on the banks of Lake Pichola, a complex of palatial splendor that blends Rajput and Mughal influences. Stroll around Shaelion-ki Bari, an ornamental pleasure garden designed for the ladies of the palace in the 18th century, with beautiful fountains, trees and flowers. Enjoy an evening cocktail cruise on Lake Pichola.

Taj Lake Palace or Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur

DAYS 16 & 17

Once a sultry archipelago of seven islands, today Mumbai is an exciting metropolis that blends the old and the new. Take a cruise to Elephanta Island across the harbor. Inside the island’s caves are fascinating sculptures of various gods of Hindu mythology. In the afternoon, take a tour of Mumbai city, a rich blend of east and west. You will see the landmark “Gateway of India,” the Hanging Gardens of Kamla Nehru Park and the Mani Bhawan house where Mahatma Gandhi used to stay.

Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai

DAY 18

Known as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea,” the Cochin harbor was once a major center of trade and commerce for the Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and British — all cultures which have left their mark on these beautiful islands. Highlights today will include a tour of Fort Cochin and a private dinner and special presentation of Kathakali — a dramatic mask dance, one of the four major classical schools of Indian cultural dance.

Taj Malabar, Cochin

DAYS 19 & 20

Take a city tour of Cochin, visiting St. Francis Church and the Mattancherry or “Dutch” Palace. The central hall of the Dutch Palace was the coronation hall of the rajas of Cochin. Rooms in the palace feature artwork depicting Hindu legends and gods. Then spend a few leisurely days in Kumarakom. Situated on the banks of the renowned Vembanad Lake, it is famous for being one of the finest watery destinations in the state.

Taj Garden Retreat, Kumarakom

DAYS 21 – 23

Embark on your kettuvallam (houseboat) and cruise through the back waters of Kerala to Toddapully and then drive to Kovalam, one of India’s most popular beaches. Enjoy leisure time to explore and take advantage of independent activities such as an Indian aromatherapy treatment at the hotel’s excellent spa. On Day 23 transfer to the Trivandrum Airport for your return flight home or onto your next destination.

Taj Green Cove, Kovalam

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.

Taj Ganges
Varanasi, India

A haven of peace and tranquility in the bustling temple city, Taj Ganges is set amidst 40 verdant acres, and offers calm and relaxation in the heart of this crowded, ancient temple city. A wide range of services provide opportunities for recreation and relaxation, from swimming in the fresh-water pool to tennis and yoga, or indulging in an herbal massage or special steam bath. The Taj also offers distinctive dining experiences that explore the nuances of the finest Indian and international cuisines, serving traditional and contemporary favorites.

Rich in colors and textures, all guestrooms at Taj Ganges celebrate luxurious Indian style and comfort. Room amenities include Internet connectivity, international direct dial facility, satellite TV, coffee/tea maker and a hairdryer.

Taj Chandela
Khajuraho, India

This resort set in 11 acres of landscaped gardens is popular both with business travelers for conferences and tourists exploring the famous medieval temples. The Taj Chandela Hotel in Khajuraho, part of the up-market Taj group of hotels, recently refurbished and updated, has large, elegant rooms and clean bathrooms with many modern facilities including Internet connectivity and satellite television. The Rasna, Rimjhim and Café de la Paix restaurants serve Indian and Western cuisine and the Sura Sundari bar is a great place to relax. Leisure options include an art gallery, a gym and swimming pool, as well as badminton and tennis courts and a croquet lawn. The hotel is about 15 minutes’ walk from the village and temples, three kilometers from the airport and 110 kilometers from the nearest railway station. Taj Chandela Hotel is easy to book - just enter your travel dates on our secure online booking form.

Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
Agra, India

The Oberoi Amarvilas is the only hotel with direct, uninterrupted views of the Taj Mahal, one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. The breathtakingly luxurious hotel is a haven that reflects the exotic grandeur of the monuments and provides guests with every modern service in luxury and comfort. Straight out of an Indian fairytale, the Oberoi Amarvilas—Sanskrit for “Eternal Haven”—is set among lush and serene Mughal-inspired pools and terraced gardens.

In the spectacular cobalt blue and gold domed entrance hall, the windows frame a fabulous vista of the Taj Mahal. Sixty-four fountains, filigreed stone bridges and pillars greet guests as they cross the torch-lit forecourt of the ceremonial entrance pavilion of what appears to be a Mughal palace. Set in a terraced garden and lit with torches, the beautiful white marble colonnaded swimming pool is straight from the fairytale pages of the Arabian Nights.

All 105 bedrooms enjoy breathtaking views of the Taj Mahal. Ancient and traditional Persian and Moorish influences combine with the very best in modern Indian interior design. The rooms have 24-hour butler service and feature a separate walk-in closet with electronic safe, color satellite TV, DVD/CD player, full mini bar, tea and coffee. The beautiful marble bathrooms have bathtub, separate shower and deluxe toiletries.

Oberoi Vanyavilas
Ranthambhore, India

This Oberoi’s new luxury resort is adjacent to the famous Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, recognized for its variety of wildlife. Though the tiger is an elusive animal, sightings in the reserve are frequent.

This resort has been designed as a “Jungle Camp,” the first luxury jungle camp in India. It is set over 20 acres of land, with over 1,500 trees. Pathways throughout the property traverse bridges crossing an 850-foot lake with lotuses and colorful fish.

Each of the 25 luxury air-conditioned tents have a private walled garden and private deck located discreetly so as to ensure maximum privacy, and are set within beautifully landscaped gardens full of orchids. Views of the nearby hills are afforded from virtually all tents. All tents have daily fresh fruit baskets, flower arrangements, daily newspapers, complimentary tea and coffee facilities, mini bars, DVD players, satellite TV, safes, data ports, free-standing Victorian bathtubs and separate shower cubicles, hairdryers, imported toiletries, slippers, and adapters.

Facilities include a heated swimming pool and jogging track; private therapy rooms to rejuvenate mind, body and soul; a game room and a lecture room for films and talks on wildlife; an amphitheatre for live performances; and a watch tower from where guests can view the reserve and its wildlife.

The Rambagh Palace
Jaipur, India

Rambagh Palace is Jaipur’s foremost Royal Palace residence. The resort is spread over 47 acres of tranquil, landscaped gardens and unveils the rich culture and history of the rulers of Rajasthan. It was built in 1835 as a hunting lodge, converted to a palace in 1925 as the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur, and became India’s first palace hotel in 1957. Still an architectural masterpiece, it is situated in the heart of the city, close to the main shopping areas and historical monuments. The hotel, which was once the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur, is spread over 47 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. An architectural masterpiece, Rambagh is sensitively restored to its former glory, allowing guests to relive the royal lifestyle.

This hotel offers distinctive dining experiences, exploring the nuances of the finest Indian and international cuisines in its two restaurants and two bars. An indoor swimming pool, age-old ayurvedic therapies, yoga and meditation classes, badminton and squash, billiards, cricket, croquet, mini golf, tennis, volley ball and water polo are among the various facilities and sports available.

Your luxury room is a retreat for the senses with a four-poster bed, walk-in wardrobe, spacious bathroom and it is equipped with in-room safe, tea/coffee maker and mini bar.

Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur
Jaipur, India

The Oberoi Rajvilas is a unique way to experience Jaipur, one of India’s most vibrant and exotic destinations. A luxury resort with its own distinctive character, it revives the gracious lifestyles of India’s legendary Rajput princes. Recreating the magnificence of princely Rajasthan, in a beautiful fort setting, with Jaipur as its backdrop; The Oberoi Rajvilas is set in 32 acres of landscaped gardens with pavilions and reflection pools that create the romance and grandeur of Rajasthan. Rooms, luxury tents and villas with private pools are clustered around private courtyards in a richly embellished fort setting. At The Oberoi Rajvilas superb attention to detail creates a soothing blend of warm, effortless service and harmonious spaces. All rooms have large four poster beds and sunken marble baths overlooking private walled gardens. Air-conditioned luxury tents have embroidered interior canopies, old style baths and outdoor decks. Interiors of the Royal Villa highlight the fine craftsmanship and attention to detail that distinguishes the hotel. A visit to Jaipur unfolds with private excursions to its many exotic attractions; palaces, forts, festivals and bazaars. Or indulge in a day at the Oberoi Spa with holistic, Ayurvedic & Western relaxation and beauty treatments. A unique way of life awaits discovery in this magical region of Rajasthan. The Oberoi Rajvilas is the perfect setting from which to begin and end your journey.

Taj Lake Palace
Udaipur, India

Feel like an honored guest of the Maharana at this exquisite white marble palace that seems to float majestically on the still waters of Lake Pichola. Originally built as a summer palace, and set amid awe-inspiring fairytale gardens, this 250-year old palace may be the most romantic hotel in the world. It brims with princely details including marble pillars, ornate glasswork, intricate paintings, and much, much more. A wide range of relaxing and rejuvenating activities include the Royal Spa that offers a blend of international holistic body and beauty treatments, aerobic workout room, swimming pool, daily entertainment and local performing arts, a shopping arcade, souvenir shop and bookshop.

The opulent silks, richly colored murals, and ornately carved wood furniture of Travcoa’s deluxe lake-facing guestrooms envelop you in royal mystique. In addition to princely-inspired décor, the hotel boasts amenities such as a private bar, music channel, satellite television and a personal safe.

Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur
Undaipur, India

Conceived as a traditional Indian palace, The Oberoi Udaivilas showcases the rich heritage of the Mewar region of Rajasthan with its rambling courtyards, gentle rippling fountains, reflecting pools and verdant gardens. Grand architecture inspired by the palaces of Rajasthan present a picture of majesty resplendent with pavilions and domes that lead you to a journey of discovery. Interiors embellished with decorative domes, hand painted frescoes, intricate mirror work and beautifully crafted artefacts create an ambience of regal splendour. An enchanting boat ride across Lake Pichola transports you to the ceremonial welcome that awaits you at resort. Rooms with terraces that open on to semi-private swimming pools present exquisite views and are a unique feature of Udaivilas. Magnificently decorated suites with private swimming pools and outdoor dining pavilions are exclusive retreats. Fine international cuisine, authentic flavors of Rajasthan or a quiet drink are all presented with views of the City Palace and Lake Pichola. The luxurious spa with its own swimming pool overlooks the lake and is a haven of serenity. Trained therapists pamper body and soul with rejuvenating treatments. The resort also offers the opportunity to undertake private Yoga, meditations and Pranayam sessions with the resident Yoga teacher or explore the city steeped in the romance of the oldest living dynasty in the world. At The Oberoi Udaivilas, the magnificent setting combines with royal service to make your holiday a journey into the romance and grandeur of another century. This resort offers an experience created exclusively for those who know there is nothing like too much luxury.

Taj Mahal Palace & Tower
Mumbai, India

Since it opened in 1903, the Taj Mahal Hotel has become a gracious landmark of the city of Mumbai. This architectural marvel brings together Moorish, Oriental and Florentine styles and has panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the Gateway of India. Over the past century, the hotel has amassed a diverse collection of paintings and works of art and is a veritable showcase of artifacts and art of the era. Take advantage of recreation activities including the Jiva Spa, fitness center with steam and sauna, luxury shopping arcade, souvenir shop, and bookstore. Sports facilities include swimming pool, golf, badminton, billiards and squash.

Your generously appointed room faces the Arabian Sea and is well-equipped with amenities including international direct dial telephone, wireless Internet, mini bar, a personal safe, satellite TV and a hairdryer.

Taj Malabar
Cochin, India

Situated on Willingdon Island with a magnificent view of Cochin Harbor, the Taj Malabar combines old-world elegance with modern day convenience. Your accommodations are in its heritage wing, built in 1935, where graceful Victorian interiors aptly reflect the inherent beauty of Cochin.

At the Taamra Spa the 4,000-year-old art of Ayurveda is faithfully followed with a range of treatments. Leisure facilities include Jacuzzi, souvenir and bookshop, speedboat rides, steam room and a beautiful swimming pool.

All guestrooms at Taj Malabar offer distinctive elegance and comfort and include wireless internet connection, international direct dialing, electronic safe, mini bar, and television with satellite programs. All rooms also offer mineral water, tea/coffee maker, and a fruit platter. A wide selection of delectable dishes and refreshing drinks are offered at four restaurants and a lounge.

Taj Garden Retreat
Kumarakom, India

Often referred to as the little jewel of Kumarakom, the Taj Garden Retreat still maintains the beauty of its rustic surroundings. At this idyllic retreat, guests can look forward to experiencing nature, the local culture, cuisine, rejuvenation and religion.

The facilities and services at the resort include a fitness center, swimming pool, water sport equipment including boats, jet scooters, and row boats, as well as a library, book shop, a laundry, florist, doctor-on-call and currency exchange. There is also the Ayurveda Center offering massage treatments, yoga and meditation. The Taj Garden Retreat offers dining choices from casual to formal to fine dining.

The resort offers a variety of rooms—designed to offer the utmost in privacy, these villas perfectly blend Edwardian and Kerala décor with private sit-outs amid lush greenery, and the exhilarating experience of open-air garden showers. These spacious rooms are equipped with large glass doors that open to a verandah, overlooking a tranquil lily pond, and included guest amenities such as international direct dial phones, color television, mini bar, and hair dryer.

Taj Green Cove
Kovalam, India

The resort is located on one of India’s most popular beaches, and spread across 10 acres of land, offering a breathtaking view of the backwater, lush landscapes, and coconut palms.

The facilities and services at the resort include a fitness center, swimming pool, water sport equipment including boats and catamaran rides, as well as a small shop and laundry services.
The rooms are spacious and elegant, offering natural details including wooden or tiled floors, high rafters, and Bizzaza bathroom mosaics. Your sea view room has modern amenities including a walk-in closet, color TV with satellite programs, international direct dial telephone and wireless internet.

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: February 13, 2012

David Rand

David’s favorite Travcoa journeys are those to India and Malaysia. David has lived and worked in these two regions – both as a scientist and as a Travel Director. David speaks Hindi, Indonesian, Malay, Portuguese (Brazilian), Spanish and French.

Travel Dates: October 10, 2012, November 14, 2012

Sharon Zimmerman

Sharon’s outstanding people skills have helped her to guide travelers on fascinating journeys to Asia, Africa and South America. Her favorite memories come from tours she led to the Hindu Kingdom of Nepal. In her own words, “You simply haven’t lived until you have been on the back of a galloping elephant!”

Travel Dates: October 17, 2012