The Indian Panorama

JAIPUR

Jaipur the capital of Rajasthan is popularly known as the Pink City with broad avenues and spacious gardens. The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is steeped in history and culture. Here the past comes alive in magnificent forts and palaces, blushing pink, where once lived the maharajas. The bustling bazaars of Jaipur, famous for Rajasthani jewellery, fabric and shoes, possess a timeless quality and are surely a treasure-trove for the shoppers. This fascinating city with its romantic charm takes you to an epoch of royalty and tradition.

SPA

Kaya Kalp - Spa at ITC Rajputana

Kaya Kalp as the name suggests rejuvenation of mind, body & soul is a perfect place to rediscover yourself. An ultimate delight to profit yourself with western style therapies using luxurious products that are natural but deliver the desired effects. A visit to the place will be a journey full of relaxation & rejuvenation.

Treatments

Deep Tissue Massage (60 mins) The term "deep tissue" is often misused to identify a massage that is performed with sustained deep pressure. Deep tissue massage is applied to both the superficial and deep layers of muscles, fascia, and other structures.

Kaya Kalp Massage (60 mins) This signature massage is designed to relax the entire body, focused on relieving muscular tension while combining wonderful soothing strokes for the ultimate massage. This powerful aroma therapeutic massage incorporates dynamic blends of essentials oils personalised according to your specific needs.

Traditional Thai Massage (60 mins) Thai massage is based on the discovery of ten invisible energy lines called Sen, which run throughout the body. Your journey begins with a masterful combination of Thai stretching techniques and a deep tissue pressure point massage. This stimulation treatment increases blood flow, releases toxins and restores suppleness; balancing your body, mind and spirit.

Jiva Spa at Jai Mahal Palace hotel

The philosophy of Jiva or "Inner force" is inherently rooted in India's ancient approach to wellness. Allow all the stress & tension to melt down & revive your skin & soul. Inspired by ancient Indian healing wisdom, Jiva believes that a spa unfolds a holistic path of life that opens out channels to nurture ones' life force.

Treatments

Deep Tissue Massage (60 mins) A customised technique of muscle massage performed by specially trained hands, which work on your deep-seated stress. Experience enhanced mobility of joints and let a deep sense of relief fill you.

Relaxation Massage (60 mins) A full-body relaxing massage to melt away your stress. Alternating palm and thumb strokes, skilled hands gently work on your tired and sore muscles. Fragrant signature oil blends, with the richness of Kewda, Frankincense and Brahmi, infused in Sandalwood and Sesame are used for this massage to release tension, bringing ease and tranquillity to your entire system.

Energizing Massage (60 mins) A deep-muscular massage to lift your spirits and revive your inner vitality. A special blend of oil, laced with fragrances of Nagarmotha, Pachouli, Tulsi and Aswagandha, will work on your deep-seated aches, releasing trapped nerves and balancing the flow of energy in your body. Every joint, muscle and sinew will pulse with newfound vigour.

Inclusions

• Pick and drop to and from the venue using an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Services of an escort to and from the venue/Train.
• Any one treatment of your choice from the options mentioned above.
• All currently applicable taxes excluding GST.

Exclusions

• Any other services apart from those mentioned in the "inclusions" section above.
• GST extra.

Notes

• The services are subject to availability at the time of booking.

EXPLORATION & EXPERIENCES

Gentlemen's Game - Golf at Rambagh Golf Club

A game of golf here will transport you into the bygone days as you catch glimpses of the Rambagh Palace Hotel, The Moti Doongari, & Nahargarh Fort & the Birla Temple. The origins of the Rambagh Golf Club date back to October 1944.
Approximate time taken for visit: 3 Hours

The Albert Hall Museum

Museums are the best place to visit to know about the culture and traditions. The Albert Hall was developed based on the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. The Royal Albert museum contains a rare collection of decorative art objects, pottery, paintings, sculptures, woodwork, natural history specimens, an Egyptian Mummy and the well-known Persian Golden Carpet. In this museum one gallery is dedicated to Mehndi, body art and great Rajasthani motifs and designs are on display.
Approximate time taken for visit: 1 Hour

Visit to City Palace & Astronomical Observatory

City Palace

The beautiful palace was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh during his reign. The huge complex of courtyards, gardens, and buildings blend both Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The Peacock Gate is exquisite, and contains an alluring display of detailed workmanship featuring bright peacocks. Today, the royal family lives in the graceful Chandra Mahal (Moon Palace) bordering the courtyard.

Jantar Mantar or Astronomical observatory

Considered to be one of the largest observatories ever built, combining religion, science and art, the Jantar Mantar is the name given to a series of five, magnificent structures built in Jaipur, New Delhi, Ujjain, Varanasi and Mathura. At first glance Jantar Mantar seems like a complex of slides, globes, and other intriguing constructs. But closer viewing will reveal its wonder. The science and engineering of Jantar Mantar is a remarkable achievement for its contribution to astronomy and architecture.
Approximate time taken for visit: 2 Hours.

Visit to Astronomical Observatory, Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) and Birla Temple (Only in Indian Panorama itinerary)

Inclusions

Pick and drop to and from the venue using an air-conditioned vehicle.
One time entrance fee & services of English Speaking local guide.
All currently applicable taxes excluding service tax.

Exclusions

Any other services apart from those mentioned in the "inclusions" section above.
GST extra.

SPECIAL INDULGENCES

Gemstones, Jewellery & Carpets

Although most tourists visit Jaipur to view its grand monuments, nonetheless there are as many who come to shop. And indeed a shopper's paradise it is. The magnificent city of Jaipur is famous for its vibrant and artistically woven fabrics and carpets. Since ages, this city has offered the best traditional designs, and the fabrics are the best in the world. The art of the colourful province of Rajasthan, Jewellery is a very integral and inherent part of Rajasthani culture. Private shopping tour to purchase, Gems & Jewellery, pottery, carpets & textiles.

Inclusions

Pick and drop to and from the venue using an air-conditioned vehicle.
Services of a Guide to and from the venue/Train.
All currently applicable taxes excluding service tax.

Exclusions

Any other services apart from those mentioned in the "inclusions" section above.
GST extra.

AGRA

The erstwhile capital of the Mughal Empire during the reign of Akbar, and an unavoidable destination on the itinerary of every traveller to India, Agra offers a revealing glimpse into the refinement of Mughal courtly life and Mughal sensibilities, captured in its many historical sites, which in addition to Taj Mahal, include Fatehpur Sikri, the Agra Fort and the tombs of prominent members of the royal family.

SPA

Kaya Kalp - The Awarding Winning Spa at hotel ITC Mughal (available in Indian Splendour,Treasures of India & Gems of India programs only)

Kaya Kalp - the Royal Spa, recreating in today's context, the opulence and luxurious lifestyle of the Mughal Dynasty. Spread over a vast expanse of more than ninety-nine thousand square feet, this is the largest spa in India and offers therapies based on ancient customs, to create meaningful experiences for the soul.

Treatments

Deep Tissue Massage (60 mins) The term "deep tissue" is often misused to identify a massage that is performed with sustained deep pressure. Deep tissue massage is applied to both the superficial and deep layers of muscles, fascia, and other structures.

Kaya Kalp Massage (60 mins) This signature massage is designed to relax the entire body, focused on relieving muscular tension while combining wonderful soothing strokes for the ultimate massage. This powerful aroma therapeutic massage incorporates dynamic blends of essentials oils personalised according to your specific needs.

Spa at The Gateway Hotel (available in Indian Splendour, Treasures of India & Gems of India programs only)

Blending ancient Indian wisdom with contemporary therapies, the Spa offers the best in Indian rejuvenation therapies ranging from Indian aromatherapy massages, time-honoured Indian treatments, body scrubs and wraps. The spa experiences are offered by trained experts using exclusive natural products in a fresh and harmonious setting.

Treatments

Relaxation Massage (60 mins) A relaxation massage encourages your body to digest its food, and get rid of its toxins. It will help you to sleep better. A massage will also help un-knot any muscles, soothe aches and sprains and encourage the skin to heal minor abrasions.

Inclusions

• Pick and drop to and from the venue/Train using an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Services of an escort to and from the venue/Train.
• Any one treatment of your choice from the options mentioned above.
• All currently applicable taxes excluding GST.

Exclusions

• Any other services apart from those mentioned in the "inclusions" section above.
• GST extra.

Notes

• The services are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• General information given above is subject to change.

EXPLORATION & EXPERIENCES

Agra Fort - A UNESCO World Heritage site

The fort can be more accurately described as a walled city. After the First Battle of Panipat, in 1526 Mughals captured the fort and a vast treasure - which included a diamond later known as the Koh-i-Noor diamond - was seized.
Approximate time taken for visit: 2 Hours

Baby Taj - Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah (available in Indian Splendour, Treasures of India & Gems of India programs only)

A lesser-known monument of Agra, the tomb of Itmad ud Daulah is also known as 'Baby Taj' because of its resemblance to Agra's most famous monument. However this Tomb was built before the Taj Mahal. A number of its stylistic features, such as a tomb in white marble surrounded by a formal garden and the use of inlay marble to create floral or geometric designs inspired similar features of the Taj Mahal.
Approximate time taken for visit: 2 Hours

The Deserted City - Fatehpur Sikri (available in Indian Panorama & Heritage of India programs only)

37 Kms from Agra is built a city predominantly in red sandstone and is called Fatehpur Sikri. This town was built by famous Mughal emperor Akbar. He planned this city as his capital but shortage of water compelled him to abandon the city. Declared as the "World Heritage site" Fatehpur Sikri stands for all the architectural wonder that this emperor could conjure up. The architectural grandeur of this deserted city cannot be described in words and one can only experience the aura of its magnificent edifices by seeing them.
Approximate time taken for visit: : 3 ½ Hours

Live dance drama - Mohabbat the Taj (available in Indian Splendour, Treasures of India & Gems of India programs only)

The world of romance and eternal love personified in the epic love story of the emperor Shah Jahan and his beloved Mumtaz Mahal is woven into the mesmerising dance drama Mohabbat the Taj. Set in the 16th century, the dance-drama portrays the lavish lifestyle of the Mughal era. The highlight of the show is a replica of the Taj Mahal in Makrana marble weighing 8,500 kg with inlay work which presents various moods and shades, very similar to the original Taj Mahal. Embellished costumes and the extravagant stage settings make for an interesting portrayal of the 16th century and allow one to see Mughal grandeur coming alive.
Duration of the show: 80 Minutes

Inclusions

Pick and drop to and from the venue/Train using an air-conditioned vehicle.
One time entrance fee & services of English Speaking local guide.
All currently applicable taxes excluding service tax.

Exclusions

Any other services apart from those mentioned in the "inclusions" section above.
GST extra.

SPECIAL INDULGENCES

Marble Inlay Art - The long established art form of marble inlay was brought to India in the 17th century by the Mughals and we are proud to assist in preserving this age old tradition. Passed down from father to son, the tradition has been kept in the family all these years. As a result, the highly skilled craftsmen who fashioned the Taj Mahal are the forefathers of the artists currently employed in the heritage city of Agra. Techniques have remained virtually unchanged and to this day everything is created exclusively by hand. Private shopping tour to shop for Peitra Dura marble can be undertaken.
Approximate time take for visit: 1-2 Hours

Inclusions

Pick and drop to and from the venue using an air-conditioned vehicle.
Services of a Guide to and from the venue/Train.
All currently applicable taxes excluding service tax.

Exclusions

Any other services apart from those mentioned in the "inclusions" section above.
GST extra.

GWALIOR

Gwalior's tradition as a royal capital continued until the formation of present day India, with the Scindias having their dynastic seat here. The magnificent mementoes of a glorious past have been preserved with care, giving Gwalior an appeal unique and timeless. Gwalior will be remembered forever as the birthplace of the great musician Tansen. Gwalior is considered to be a city where a rich cultural tradition has been interwoven into the fabric of modern life. Also where a princely past lives on in great palaces and their museums. And where a multitude of images merge and mix to present to the visitor a city of enduring greatness.

SPA

Jiva Spa at Usha Kiran Palace hotel

Jiva spa welcomed its first guest in 2004 at the Usha Kiran Palace in Gwalior blending ancient Indian wisdom with contemporary therapies. The award winning spa at the Taj Hotel reflects the essence of ancient Indian tradition, culture & wisdom. You will be welcomed with "Namaste" with head bowed & hand folded meaning, "I bow to you" in Sanskrit. Signature Jiva Spa experiences bring guests the essence of traditional royal wellness and therapeutic experiences.

Treatments

Deep Tissue Massage (60 mins) A customized technique of muscle massage performed by specially-trained hands, which works on your deep-seated stress. Experience enhanced mobility of joints and let a deep sense of relief fill you.

Relaxation Massage (60 mins)A full-body relaxing massage to melt away your stress. Alternating palm and thumb strokes, skilled hands gently work on your tired and sore muscles. Fragrant signature oil blends with the richness of Kewda, Frankincense and Brahmi, infused in Sandalwood and Sesame are used for this massage to release tension, bringing ease and tranquility to your entire system.

Inclusions

• Services of an escort to and from the venue/Train.
• Any one treatment of your choice from the options mentioned above.
• All currently applicable taxes excluding service tax.

Exclusions

• Any other services apart from those mentioned in the "inclusions" section above.
• GST extra.

Notes

• The services are subject to availability at the time of booking.

VARANASI

Varanasi is one of the oldest living cities in the world. It is revered as the abode of Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati. Many names have been given to this city, though its recently revived official appellation is mentioned in the Mahabharata and in the Jataka tales of Buddhism. Varanasi is one of the most important pilgrimage in India and also a major tourist attraction. Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges, city has been a centre of learning and civilization for over 20:00 years.

EXPLORATION & EXPERIENCES

Excursion to Varanasi

Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges, Varanasi has been a center of learning and civilization for over 20:00 years. City attractions include numerous 'Ghats', which are the steps which lead people down to the river. If you have an inherent quest for knowledge, visit the hallowed BHU. One of the largest residential universities in the world, the sprawling campus covers 1350 acres towards the southern part of town. Nationalist leader Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya's cherished project, it played a stellar role during the independence movement by stroking the fire for freedom in young and old alike.
Approximate time taken for visit: 2 Hours.

Inclusions

• Pick and drop to and from the venue using an air-conditioned vehicle.
• One time entrance fee & services of English Speaking local guide.
• All currently applicable taxes excluding service tax.

Exclusions

• Any other services apart from those mentioned in the "inclusions" section above.
• GST extra.

SPA

The Gateway Hotel, Varansi

The Jiva Spa at The Gateway Hotel, Varanasi offers luxurious Indian wellness signature treatment in a colonial, rich setting. Their ethos draws on the rich and ancient wellness heritage of India the fabled lifestyle and culture of Indian royalty through the centuries and the healing therapies that embrace Indian spirituality. Each treatment and experience has been carefully selected to initiate physical, mental and spiritual equilibrium.

Besides Jiva Spa signature experiences and Indian therapies, the Spa offers a range of Yoga and meditation practices, evening chanting classes and Sanskrit classes.

Abhisheka from Jiva presents the global spa guest and experience of the essense of India's ancient ceremonial cleansing rituals. Offered with the purest natural ingredients, Abhisheka brings guests a purifying, rejuvenating and healing spa experience like no other.

KHAJURAHO

Derived from the Hindi word 'khajur' meaning date palm, the quaint little temple town of Khajuraho is famous throughout the world for its medieval Hindu temples and more so for its erotic sculpture. Built over a span of a hundred years, from 950 to 1050 AD, the Khajuraho temples represent the expression of a highly matured civilization and are the country's unique gift of love to the world. Today, of the original 85 temples, only 22 have survived the ravages of time; these remain as a collective paean to life, to joy and to creativity; to the ultimate fusion of man with his creator.

SPA

Rejuve - The Spa at the The Lalit Temple View hotel

Rejuve - The Spa is a place for holistic healing, self-discovery and relaxation. It is built on the concept of healing and aims to integrate the traditional healing methods of Ayurveda and Yoga philosophies along with contemporary Spa principles to rejuvenate and rebalance. The Rejuve Hydrotherapy - spa also has separate steam, sauna and chill shower for exceptional relaxation.

Treatments

Swedish Massage (60 mins) A truly traditional massage with regulated pressure; excellent for releasing knots and tension in the body. Stimulating, strong movements effectively ease a tired aching back and limbs to leave you energised and invigorated.

Aromatherapy Massage (60 mins) A deeply therapeutic, holistic massage using blends of essential oils whose aromatic appeal is a personal response to each individual's needs.

Deep Tissue Massage (60 mins) This massage incorporates bodywork that reaches the tension retaining areas of the muscle tissues of the back, neck, shoulders and legs. It increases flexibility, circulation and speeds up the body's natural healing process.

Inclusions

• Pick and drop to and from the venue/Train using an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Services of an escort to and from the venue/Train.
• Any one treatment of your choice from the options mentioned above.
• All currently applicable taxes excluding GST.

Exclusions

• Any other services apart from those mentioned in the "inclusions" section above.
• GST extra.

Notes

• The services are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• The optional can be availed in Indian Panorama itinerary only.

EXPLORATION & EXPERIENCES

Sound & light show

This fascinating light & sound spectacle evokes the life and times of the great Chandela Kings and traces the story of the unique temples from the 10th Century to the present day. Amitabh Bachchan, biggest Bollywood star, narrates the story of the magnificent temples and his majestic voice attributes a special effect to the show.
Approximate time taken for visit: 90 Mins

Inclusions

• Pick and drop to and from the venue using an air-conditioned vehicle.
• One time entrance fee & services of English Speaking local guide.
• All currently applicable taxes excluding service tax.

Exclusions

• Any other services apart from those mentioned in the "inclusions" section above.
• GST extra.

SPECIAL INDULGENCES

Handlooms & Handicrafts

Just like the city of Khajuraho, shopping experience in the city also includes buying various metal or stone sculptures depicting 'Kamasutra' poses. Textile weaving is a major craft in Khajuraho. You may pick up from the variety of saris and other Indian wear while shopping in Khajuraho. Miniature stone-carved replicas of erotic sculptures are hot favourite items for shopping in Khajuraho. If you are looking for souvenirs to take back, these are of course the best bet.

Inclusions

• Pick and drop to and from the venue using an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Services of a Guide to and from the venue/Train.
• All currently applicable taxes excluding service tax.

Exclusions

• Any other services apart from those mentioned in the "inclusions" section above.
• GST extra.