The Far Pavilions
The Majesty of India
October 16 - 31, 2005

A GRAND, NEVER-ENDING FESTIVAL

On a clear afternoon in the north of the Indian subcontinent, a glance toward the horizon will reveal one of Nature’s most magnificent sights: the towering Himalaya Mountains. This awesome range of peaks has been called “The Far Pavillions” by local residents, suggesting not only a far-flung place but also one of grand elegance, breathtaking beauty, and timeless tradition. These qualities also apply to the world wonder that is India, and the first-time visitor cannot help but be overwhelmed by the experience.
     India is as large as the entire continent of Europe. It is a place where East meets West, and North meets South. It has one of the world’s oldest cultures, with a long history that is forever alive. Around every corner another wonder of India’s kaleidoscopic richness reveals itself—Hindu temples, Buddhist stupas, Mauryan pillars, Mughal forts, British colonial architecture. Each century is represented by its unique testaments, often standing incongruously close to the exotic remains of another era.
     It has been said that visiting India is like experiencing an ongoing festival. It can be an assault to the senses, with its multitudinous hoards of people, the vibrant colors of thousands of saris in a public market, and the spectacle of elaborate monuments from bygone eras. India also boasts a wide range of wildlife, with as many as 53 national parks and almost 250 sanctuaries which are home to 350 mammals and 1,200 bird species. Once famous for its white tiger, the royal Bengal tiger, the snow leopard, the Asiatic lion and the great Indian bustard, Indian wildlife is among the most varied in the world.
     Experience the world-famous marvels of Rajasthan during this comprehensive tour, including the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort, the Amber Fort, and many exotic shrines, temples and palaces—some of which have been converted into Heritage Hotels where we stay. Enjoy game drives at Ranthambore National Park. Meet local gay men at a special welcome party in Delhi, and experience gay nightlife in Mumbai. Extend your tour to the beaches of Goa, the location for the opening scenes of the movie: “The Bourne Supremacy.”
     Any visit to India is destined to be a life-changing experience. This magical expedition to Rajasthan with Toto Tours will certainly be your most memorable vacation ever!

ITINERARY

Sunday, October 16, 2005
Departure from the U.S.

Depart your home city today on an overnight international flight to Delhi, India, arriving tomorrow.

Monday, October 17, 2005
Arrival in Delhi

Delhi is the capital and third largest city of India. Delhi is actually twin cities comprised of Old Delhi and New Delhi. Old Delhi was the capital of India during the Muslim rule from the 12th to the 19th century. New Delhi was created later under the British imperial rule. But what a travel book cannot tell you is that Delhi is a kaleidoscope that promises everything for a tourist—historic sites, divine retreats, heritage, tourism, theme parks, museums, gardens, galleries, film festivals, great shopping, gay nightlife and more.
     You will be personally greeted at the International Airport upon arrival today, presented with a fresh flower garland, and transferred to our hotel to enjoy a night of restful sleep after the long flight. As flights typically arrive very late, no meals are included today. Our time in Delhi is short, and we encourage you to consider arriving a day or two early to make the most of your visit to this city. We will be happy to assist with an extended hotel stay.     (No Meals)

Tuesday, October 18, 2005
New & Old Delhi

After breakfast at our hotel, enjoy a full day sightseeing tour of both New and Old Delhi. In New Delhi, visit the Qutab Minar, India Gate and the President’s Palace. The city is built in a typically British colonial style with tree-lined avenues, colonial bungalows, the Parliament House, the War Memorial Arch and the Vice Regal Palace (now the official residence of the President of India).
     In Old Delhi, see the Jama Masjid, the Raj Ghat (where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated), and the Red Fort. Enjoy a festive Welcome Dinner this evening, followed by a special party at one of the most popular gay pubs situated in the upscale diplomatic area of Delhi.     (Breakfast / Welcome Dinner)

Wednesday, October 19, 2005
Delhi to Agra

After breakfast, transfer by air-conditioned vehicle 126 miles south of Delhi to the city of Agra. Agra is the majestic symbol of a bygone era when Mughals ruled India. They left behind some of the most marvelous reminders of their past glory and power. Foremost among them is the Taj Mahal—one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Others include the Agra Fort and Jehangir’s Palace.
     Upon arrival, we check in to our hotel and the remainder of the day is at leisure. Our tour of the Taj is scheduled for tomorrow morning, but since we are fortunate to be here during a full moon we have organized a special nighttime visit to see and photograph this magnificent edifice by romantic moonlight. This is a very special tour bonus!     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Thursday, October 20, 2005
Agra & Taj Mahal

On today’s sightseeing tour, you will see the one and the only Taj Mahal, built in 1630 by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his deceased wife to enshrine her mortal remains. This monument to love has been described as the most extravagant ever built, for the emperor was heart-broken when his wife of 17 years died in childbirth after delivering her 14th child.
     Later visit the amazing Agra Fort, which is actually a city-within-a-city. It embraces the Moti Masjid, the Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audiences), the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audiences), Octagonal Tower, and Jehangir’s Palace. We enjoy dinner together at our hotel, and the remainder of the evening is free.     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Friday, October 21, 2005
Agra to Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore National Park)

After breakfast at our hotel, leave Agra by air-conditioned vehicle. We travel 25 miles to the deserted capital of Fatehpur Sikri, built by the Emperor Akbar in 1569 and abandoned 15 years later due to lack of water. We spend an hour here visiting some of the graceful buildings which remain, including the Jama Masjid, the tomb of Salim Chisti, the Panch mahal and other palaces.
     We continue driving another 125 miles to Ranthambore National Park in the eastern Rajasthan region, close to the town of Sawai Madhopur. Declared a national park in 1980, the Ranthambore Park is set in the rocky, rugged terrain between the Aravali and Vindhya mountain ranges. After dinner together at our hotel, the remainder of the evening is free to enjoy the amenities of the resort.     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Saturday, October 22, 2005
Ranthambore Game Viewing

Very early morning before the sun rises, we gather to take our first game drive by jeeps into Ranthambore Park. It is at sunrise when wildlife is often most active, and therefore this is the best time for game viewing. Afterwards, return to the lodge for breakfast. The day is free to relax or walk around the Sawai Madhopur village. Early this evening, take another game drive to see the wildlife rouse themselves at sunset after a drowsy day spent asleep in the shade.     (All Meals)

Sunday, October 23, 2005
Ranthambore to Jaipur

After breakfast, enjoy another morning game drive into Ranthambore Park, returning to the resort in time for an early lunch. Afterwards, board our air-conditioned vehicle for the onward journey of 100 miles to Jaipur, the bustling capital of Rajasthan. It is known as the Pink City because most of the old city section’s buildings are pink in color. The city retains its ancient identity while at the same time moving fast as a modern city. On the one hand you see camel carts and traditionally dressed men and women in turbans and colorful long skirts and blouses. On the other hand you see cars, busses and motorbikes with Indians and tourists in modern dress having a bite in their favorite international restaurant.
     Upon arrival we check in at our wonderful Heritage Hotel. This evening we have the opportunity to experience a man-pulled cycle rickshaw ride or spend time walking around the colorful local bazaars. Dinner this evening is at Choki Dhani, an Ethnic Village resort.     (All Meals)

Monday, October 24, 2005
Amber Fort

After breakfast, travel 7 miles outside Jaipur to the Amber Fort. This fort/palace was begun by Raja Man Singh and used by the Rajputs as their stronghold until Sawai Jai Singh II moved to the the newly created Jaipur. Visit the palace and its many intricate chambers and hallways, with breathtaking views of the Jal Mahal (Water Palace) below. Elephant taxis will be reserved for you for a memorable ride up to the fort.
     In the afternoon return to Jaipur for a city sightseeing tour, visiting the Maharaja’s City Palace, Jantar Mantar Observatory, the Palace of Winds, and driving past the city’s rose pink residential and business areas. After dinner at the hotel, the remainder of the evening is free.     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Tuesday, October 25, 2005
Jaipur to Jodphur by Air

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then organize your luggage to send ahead to Jodphur by Motorcoach. You will keep just a carry-on bag for the flight. The majority of the day is free to sightsee or visit the local bazaars and do some shopping. In mid-afternoon we check out of our hotel and head to the airport for the short flight to Jodphur. The early evening flight takes just 40 minutes. We are met at the airport and transferred to our Heritage Hotel, where we enjoy dinner and a free evening.     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Wednesday, October 26, 2005
Mehrangarh Fort

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Jodhpur. Visit the Mehrangarh Fort which is situated at an altitude of 410 feet and spread over an area of 5 square kilometers. Standing sentinel to the city below, it overlooks the rugged and rocky terrain and houses a palace intricately adorned with long carved panels and latticed windows exquisitely wrought from red sandstone. Half a mile away from the fort is the Jaswant Thada, a beautiful white marble memorial built in 1899 to honor the late Maharaja of the region. In the afternoon we return to our hotel for dinner and a free evening.     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Thursday, October 27, 2005
Jodhpur to Udaipur / Jain Temple / Lake Palace

This morning, leave Jodhpur for the 162 mile journey to Udaipur via air-conditioned vehicle. En-route visit the beautiful 15th-century Jain Temple at Ranakpur. Built in the 15th century, it is situated in the lovely valley of the Aravalis and is distinguished by 1444 pillars, no two of which are alike. The magical play of light and shadow is awe-inspiring.
     Upon arrival at Udaipur, we check in at our hotel and enjoy some free time before dinner. This evening will be one of the highlights of this tour—dining at the stunning Lake Palace, which was featured in the James Bond movie Octopussy. After dinner we return to our hotel for overnight.     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Friday, October 28, 2005
Udaipur

Following breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Udaipur, visiting the City Palace and Museum, considered the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Other sites on the tour include the Pratap Memorial and its large bronze statue of the legendary warrior king of Udaipur, the 17th century Jagdish Temple, and the lovely ornamental garden of Saheliyon Ki Bari. Return to the hotel in late afternoon. This evening, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichhola. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Saturday, October 29, 2005
Udaipur to Mumbai / Elephanta Caves

This morning partake of a very early breakfast and transfer to the airport for our 8:40am flight to Mumbai (Bombay). Upon arrival, transfer to our hotel and check-in.
    Mumbai’s entrepreneurial dreams climb as high as the gleaming skyscrapers that define its skyline. As the economic powerhouse of India, this go-getting city is a magnet for high-flyers and business gurus looking to make their fortunes. Mumbai’s name, however, comes from much humbler beginnings. From a cluster of seven islands inhabited by Koli fishermen living on the shores of the Arabian Sea and worshipping Mumbadevi, this impressive city was born.
     This afternoon we take an excursion across the city’s harbor to the world famous 1,200 year old Elephanta Caves, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Here we find the famous Trimurti sculpture signifying the trinity of the Creator, the Preserver and the Destroyer. Tonight we celebrate the end of our journey through India with a festive Farewell Dinner.     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Sunday, October 30, 2005
Mumbai / Depart or Extend to Goa

Today our group splits in two. Those taking our optional beach extension to Goa transfer to the airport in time to connect with the noonday flight. See tour extension details below.
     Those departing for home today will first enjoy a city sightseeing tour of Mumbai. Some of the highlights include the Gateway of India, Prince of Wales Museum, the Aquarium, the Hanging Gardens on the slopes of Malabar Hills, Kamla Nehru Park, and Mani Bhawan (where Mahatma Gandhi used to stay). Our final stop will be to see one of the city’s most unique features, the Dhobi Ghat, a large outdoor public laundry that has been operating for hundreds of years.
     We have retained our hotel rooms to accommodate a very late check-out today. The evening is free until it is time to transfer to the airport for your international flight. Most U.S.-bound flights typically depart in early hours, just after midnight. Have a care when booking your return flight to ensure that it departs either very late at night on October 30, or very early in the morning on October 31.     (Breakfast)

Monday, October 31, 2005
Return Home

Your international flight will arrive in your home city today. If you wish to extend your stay in Mumbai we will be happy to assist with your arrangements.

OPTIONAL GOA EXTENSION

Sunday, October 30, 2005
Flight to Goa

After breakfast, say goodbye to your fellow traveler, and head to the beach resort area of Goa. Our flight departs Mumbai at 12 noon and takes just one hour. We are met at the airport and transferred to our all-inclusive resort hotel. The remainder of the day is free to explore the area and relax on Arossim Beach, just a few hundred feet from the hotel.     (Breakfast / Dinner)

Monday, October 31, 2005
Sightseeing / Beach Time

This morning enjoy a sightseeing tour of Goa, which was an old Portuguese enclave on the western coast of India and remains one of the country’s most idiosyncratic states. Visit the Old Town, its most important Cathedrals and the Arch of the Vice Roy of Goa. Enjoy Miramar Beach, the only one in India close to a city, which provides a good view of the river Mandovi flowing into the sea. Finally, visit the Dona Paula fishing village at the tip of Panaji. Return to the hotel, and the remainder of the day is free to enjoy the beach and hotel.     (All Meals At Resort)

Tuesday, November 1, 2005
Return to Mumbai

This morning depart Goa at 8:10am on a flight to Mumbai. You will have use of a day room at a hotel in the city center until departure late tonight.
     In the afternoon enjoy a city sightseeing tour of Mumbai. Some of the highlights include the Gateway of India, Prince of Wales Museum, the Aquarium, the Hanging Gardens on the slopes of Malabar Hills, Kamla Nehru Park, and Mani Bhawan (where Mahatma Gandhi used to stay). Our final stop will be to see one of the city’s most unique features, the Dhobi Ghat, a large outdoor public laundry that has been operating for hundreds of years.
     Late evening, transfer to the international airport for flights home. Most U.S.-bound flights typically depart in early hours, just after midnight. Have a care when booking your return flight to ensure that it departs either very late at night on November 1, or very early in the morning on November 2.     (Breakfast)

Wednesday, November 2, 2005
Return Home

Your international flight will arrive in your home city today. If you wish to extend your stay in Mumbai we will be happy to assist with your arrangements.