India. By Oberoi. Exclusively for the programme attendees of Knight Frank
A legacy of globally acclaimed luxury business
and leisure hotels
THE OBEROI UDAIVILAS, UDAIPUR
Best hotel in the world in 2007
Travel + Leisure, Readers Poll
THE OBEROI VANYAVILAS, RANTHAMBHORE
Best hotel in the world in 2010
Travel + Leisure, Readers Poll
THE OBEROI, GURGAON
Voted world’s leading luxury hotel in 2013
World Travel Awards
Agra – The City of Taj Mahal The Oberoi Rajvilās, Jaipur
The Oberoi, Mumbai
Wildflower Hall,
Shimla in the Himalayas
The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda,
Backwater Cruiser, Kerala
The Oberoi Vanyavilās,
Ranthambhore The Oberoi Udaivilās, Udaipur
East West
North
South
Agra is the only city in the world that boasts of three UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort and
the old capital of Fatehpur Sikri, legacies of the Mughal Empire from the 16th and 17th centuries.
Agra
The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
Located 600 meters from the monument of love, Taj Mahal, the hotel encapsulates its beauty & romance.
Taj Mahal
Built as a mausoleum in memory of Emperor Shah
Jahan’ s wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal, often
described as “poetry in marble,” is considered to be
the most beautiful monument in the world. The layout
of the complex with its gardens and fountains is similar
to that of an Islamic garden of paradise. Over 20,000
craftsmen labored for 22 years to build this magnificent
structure that needs to be seen and experienced at
different times of the day to appreciate its grandeur.
Agra Fort
Agra Fort was built by Emperor Akbar between 1565
A.D. and 1573 A.D. Its imposing red sandstone ramparts
form a crescent along the riverfront and encompass an
enormous complex of courtly buildings, ranging in style
from the early eclectism of Akbar to the sublime
simplicity of Emperor Shah Jehan.
Fatehpur Sikri
Built by Emperor Akbar in 1571 A.D. in honor of the
famous Sufi saint Salim Chisti, Fatehpur Sikri was the
capital of the Mughal empire for 14 years. A fine
example of a Mughal walled city with well-defined
public and private areas and imposing gateways, its
architecture is a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles,
reflecting Akbar’s secular vision as well as his style of
governance.
Itmad-ud-Daulah
Lyrically described as a “jewel box in marble”, the
small, yet elegant garden tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah,
the “Lord Treasurer” of the Mughal empire, was built
over a period of six years from 1622 A.D. It was built
by his daughter Empress Nur Jehan, Jehangir ’ s
favorite wife. This tomb is a brilliant combination of
white marble, colored mosaic, stone inlay and
latticework.
Keoladeo Ghana National Park
Keoladeo Ghana National Park, situated 54 kilometers
from Agra on the eastern edge of Rajasthan, is one of
Asia’s finest sanctuaries for local and migratory, water
and waterside birds, including the rare Siberian Crane.
Spread over an area of 30 square kilometers, the park
is a rare and valuable nature conservation area and is a
World Heritage site.
Places of interest
The Oberoi Amarvilās, Agra Jaipur – City of Forts and Gems Stones
The Oberoi, Mumbai
Wildflower Hall,
Shimla in the Himalayas
The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda,
Backwater Cruiser, Kerala
The Oberoi Vanyavilās,
Ranthambhore The Oberoi Udaivilās, Udaipur
East West
North
South
For centuries, travellers from all over the world have been drawn to the majesty and colour of Rajasthan and its
capital city, Jaipur. Founded more than 250 years ago by Maharaja Jai Singh II, Jaipur is also known as the ‘Pink City’.
Jaipur
The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur
Recreating the glory of princely Rajasthan, the hotel is designed in a beautiful fort setting.
Amber Fort Amber was the first royal residence of the Maharajas.
Today it stands with magnificent glory and consists of
complex palaces, halls, pavilions, gardens and temples
built by Raja Man Singh, Mirza Raja Jai Singh and Sawai
Jai Singh over a period of 125 years and completed in
the 17th century. A visit to Amber is a must for any
visitor to Jaipur.
Jaigarh Fort Above Amber fort lies the Jaigarh fort. It is one of the
few military structures of medieval India preserved
almost intact. It contains palaces, gardens, open and
covered reservoirs, a granary, an armory, a well
planned cannon foundry, several temples and a tall
tower. It also has a giant mounted cannon - the
Jai Ban - one of the largest cannons in the country.
While Amber was the royal residence, guarding it stood
the military fortress of Jaigarh. The Albert Hall The beautiful Indo-Victorian structure of the Albert
hall designed by Sir Swinton Jacob was opened in 1887
A.D. as a public museum. It contains a fine collection
of sculptures, paintings, decorative art objects,
natural history specimens, an Egyptian mummy and
the celebrated Persian garden carpet.
Hawa Mahal Built by Sawai Pratap Singh in the 18th century, Hawa
Mahal has unique and fascinating facade with five
storeys of windows, with latticed stone screens. From
these screened windows, the ladies of the court would
view the city below.
City Palace The former ruling family of Jaipur still lives in the
Chandra Mahal or Moon Palace, now popularly known as
the City Palace. The outer and the inner courtyard have
been converted into a public museum. It houses an
extensive collection of rare manuscripts, Mughal and
Rajasthani miniatures, Mughal carpets, and other royal
paraphernalia. A visit to the City Palace is highly
recommended for any visitor to Jaipur.
Places of interest
Nahargarh Fort This fort stands guard over Jaipur; on a sheer rock
face about 2 kilometers from the city centre,
dominating the skyline. The immense walls and
bastions are well preserved. Built by the Maharaja Jai
Singh II, this fort was used as his military base. The
main attraction is the Hawa Mandir and Madhuvendra
Bhawan used by Jai Singh II for housing his nine wives.
It is also famous for its painting and artwork.
The Oberoi Amarvilās, Agra The Oberoi Rajvilās, Jaipur
The Oberoi, Mumbai
Wildflower Hall,
Shimla in the Himalayas
The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda,
Backwater Cruiser, Kerala
The Oberoi Vanyavilās,
Ranthambhore
Udaipur – City of Lakes and Palaces
East West
North
South
Udaipur, rated the ‘Best City in the World’ by the readers of Travel + Leisure magazine in 2009.
A glittering oasis in the heart of Rajasthan, the city has magnificent forts, palaces and temples.
Udaipur
The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur
Rooms with terraces that open on to semi-private swimming pools are a unique feature of this hotel.
City Palace The City Palace stands on a hill on the banks of Lake
Pichola, surrounded by crenulated walls. Founded in
1567 A.D., it is composed of four major palaces and
several minor palaces that form a single façade. Its
main entrance is through a triple arched gate, the
Tripolia, built in 1725 A.D. The gate leads to a series of
courtyards, corridors and gardens. A visit to the City
Palace is highly recommended.
Crystal Gallery The Crystal Gallery in Fateh Prakash Hotel overlooks
the grand Durbar Hall. It has a rare collection of
Osler’ s crystal ordered from England by Maharana
Sajjan Singh in 1877 A.D. It includes crystal
chandeliers and crystal furniture like chairs, dressing
tables and a bed.
Places of interest
Jagdish Temple Built in 1651 A.D. by Maharana Jagat Singh I and
dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple has an imposing
79 feet high pagoda covered with sculptures of
dancers, musicians, elephants and horsemen. It is the
city’s largest and most resplendent temple.
Sajjan Garh Also known as the Monsoon Palace, it is located on top
of a hill overlooking Lake Pichola and dominates the
city ’ s skyline. Built in the late 19th century by
Maharana Sajjan Singh as an observatory, it has a
breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding lakes,
rivers and Aravalli ranges. It is surrounded by wooded
hillsides and was once a royal hunting ground.
Sahelion ki Bari Maharana Sangram Singh built this garden for his
daughter and the ladies of the Queen’s court. It is
said he wished to recreate the monsoon for his
daughter, who had been ill for a long period. The
garden has many fountains in four pools embellished
with delicately chiselled pavilions and elephants. The
fountains still work on the unique hydraulic system
devised in 1700 A.D.
Fateh Sagar Lake Built by Maharana Fateh Singh, this elegant lake is
surrounded by hills on three sides and a dam on the
fourth side. A boat ride to Nehru Park, an island
garden, can be arranged from the banks of the lake.
The Oberoi Amarvilās, Agra The Oberoi Rajvilās, Jaipur
The Oberoi, Mumbai
Wildflower Hall,
Shimla in the Himalayas
The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda,
Backwater Cruiser, Kerala
Ranthambhore – City of Royal Bengal Tiger The Oberoi Udaivilās, Udaipur
East West
North
South
Ranthambhore was once the private hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur. In 1955 it was declared a
National Park under the ‘Save the Tiger’ initiative and is probably the best place to spot the Royal Bengal Tiger.
Ranthambhore
The Oberoi Vanyavilas, a
luxury jungle resort, is
located adjacent to the
Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve.
Complementing the jungle
surroundings are luxury tents
with private walled gardens.
With its natural beauty,
serenity and proximity to the
Reserve, the resort provides
a unique opportunity to
enjoy wildlife in its
natural habitat.
Ranked the 2nd best
resort in Asia: Condé Nast
Traveler, USA 2012.
Ranthambhore Fort
Nearly 1000 years old, the fort is situated on a
hill rising 250 meters above the densely
forested valleys. It has majestic ramparts,
massive gates and bastions and is a vantage
point for bird watching. On rare occasions,
tigers can also be spotted from the top of the
fort. Walking in the National Park is prohibited
but you can walk around the fort. A 20-minute
walk takes you up to the fort and all around are
the remains of old water tanks, palaces and
mosques.
The Ranthambhore Fort also houses a very
famous Ganesh Temple where hundreds of
people throng during the Ganesh Chaturthi
festival. It is also the only temple in the world
with a mail box wherein millions of devotees
send in their invitation and prayers to Lord
Ganesha and His family to bless their homes
during auspicious celebrations.
Places of interest
Sawai Madhopur
Villages near this township on the outskirts of the park are
famous for folk arts, especially the distinctive decorative
paintings that adorn the walls of the mud houses in the area.
Visit to Dhonk and Dastakar
Guests interested in shopping local art and craft may visit
‘Dhonk’ and ‘Dastakar’ which are co-operative women’s
societies set up to engage village women in self sustenance
and also promote local art and craft. A wide range of quality
products are available ranging from clothing, household
furnishing to children’s toys which are produced on site.
Ranthambhore School of Art Ranthambhore is famous for the exquisite tiger paintings on silk
and charcoal sketches alike. You may visit the home studio of
Ranthambhore’s most famous artist, Mr. M.D. Parashar whose
“Tiger Eye” sketch is renowned over the world and especially
his own unique technique of Soot Sketching. A recipient of
many National and International awards, Mr. Parashar leads a
simple and exemplary life. To enable young locals a sustainable
livelihood, he opened Ranthambhore School of Art, which
provides free painting classes.
The Oberoi Amarvilās, Agra The Oberoi Rajvilās, Jaipur
The Oberoi, Mumbai
Shimla – City of Himalayas
The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda,
Backwater Cruiser, Kerala
The Oberoi Vanyavilās,
Ranthambhore The Oberoi Udaivilās, Udaipur
East West
North
South
For centuries, the majestic Himalayas have fascinated travellers and evoked a sense of awe and admiration.
Nestled in the mid western ranges of the Himalayas is Shimla, the summer capital during the British rule.
Shimla The Himalayas
Situated in the magnificent
Himalayas, Wildflower Hall
is set amidst evergreen
forest and presents a picture
of breathtaking natural
beauty. The resort stands
handsomely amidst acres of
cedar and pine trees,
bearing testimony to its
rich colonial heritage.
Ranked 2nd best resort in
Asia: Condé Nast Traveller,
UK 2010 Readers’ Choice
Awards.
Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas
Enjoy stunning views of the majestic Himalayas as you savour the finest in international and Indian cuisine.
Christ Church The church on the Ridge by the Mall is the second
oldest in North India. Constructed in the Neo-Gothic
style, it boasts one of the finer pipe-organs in India and
its fine stained glass windows were designed by
Rudyard Kipling’s father; Lockwood Kipling.
The Mall The Mall has always been a place to be seen at, for
local Shimla residents. It has offered great shopping
sprees to visitors since the 1800’s. The unique feature
of vehicular traffic being forbidden on the mall has
only added to its appeal. The Gaiety theatre, the
Town Hall, St. Michael’s Cathedral and the General
Post Office are good examples of colonial architecture
on the Mall.
Places of interest
Himachal State Museum The Museum exhibits a rich display of the state’ s
cultural, artistic and archaeological heritage. The
museum is located on a hillock adjacent to the
Viceregal Lodge.
Jakhoo Hill This is Shimla’s highest point at 2,400 meters. It offers
a panoramic view of the town, hills, and mountain
ranges. The peak has a temple dedicated to Lord
Hanuman and co-incidentally, the surroundings of the
temple are ruled by a large troupe of monkeys.
Naldehra Naldhera is a forty-five minute drive from the hotel.
The Viceroy, Lord Curzon, was so enchanted by this
spot that he gave his daughter “Naldehra ” as her
middle name. He also created Indian’s first nine-hole
golf course at this site. Golfing is available between
March and December.
Viceregal Lodge The former residence of the Viceroy of India, this fine
example of Scottish Baronial architecture was
completed in 1888 A.D. It’s grey stone masonry, tiled
pitch roof, interiors with elaborately carved Burma
teak and expansive gardens speak of the glory of a
bygone era. This building also played an important
part during the partition of India and presently it
houses The Indian Institute Of Advanced Studies.
The Oberoi Amarvilās, Agra The Oberoi Rajvilās, Jaipur
The Oberoi, Mumbai
Cochin, Kerala – City of Backwaters
The Oberoi Vanyavilās,
Ranthambhore The Oberoi Udaivilās, Udaipur
East West
North
South
Wildflower Hall,
Shimla in the Himalayas
Kerala, commonly known as “God’s own country” is one of India’s most enchanting destinations. Its picturesque
backwaters are a unique feature. They meander through a series of scenic canals and lakes.
Kerala The Backwaters
Motor Vessel Vrinda takes you
on a journey through these
tranquil waterways. Enjoy
beautiful scenery
in an atmosphere of
luxury and comfort.
Motor Vessel Vrinda has
elegant interiors and
offers excellent facilities.
Excursion highlights
Half-statue of Lord Buddha; Centuries old Church and Hindu temple; Snake boat yard, housing the traditional
long boats used for races; Ride on a traditional rice boat.
A qualified guide will be on board to accompany the guests on all excursions.
Bolghatty Palace Built by the Dutch in 1744 A.D., this palace is on an
island, off Cochin in the ocean. The building was once a
Governor’s palace, for the Dutch and later the home of
the British Governors. The evening boat cruise will take
one all around the island. The palace is two-storied and
contains well-decorated bed chambers and a huge
lounge where historical portraits are displayed.
Mattancherry Palace Built in oriental style, the Mattancherry Palace was
originally built by the Portuguese and presented to the
king of Cochin in 1555 A.D. It was later taken over by
the Dutch who improved it through extensions and
repairs in 1663 A.D. One of the oldest buildings in
Kerala, the Mattancherry Palace is a double-storied
quadrangular building that is a portrait gallery of the
kings of Cochin. In the centre of the building is the
Coronation Hall where the Cochin Rajas held their
coronations.
Places of interest
Jewish Synagogue The Jewish Synagogue at Cochin is the oldest
Synagogue in the commonwealth countries. It houses
some of the scrolls of the Old Testament in the original
Hebrew. Built in 1568 A.D., it also preserves the grants
of privilege that were bequeathed to the Jewish
community by the erstwhile Kochi rulers. There are
nearly two hundred exquisite hand painted blue
Chinese tiles, not one of which resembles any other.
St. Francis’ Church St Francis’ Church in Cochin is the oldest European-
built church in India. Built in 1503 A.D. by the
Portuguese, it housed the remains of Vasco Da Gama,
the famous explorer who was the first European to land
on the shores of India. His remains were later removed
to Lisbon.
Pathiranamal Island The little island of Pathiramanal on the Backwaters is
a favorite haunt of hundreds of rare migratory birds
from different parts of the area. The green island thus
forms an ideal place for a break in the journey while
on a backwater cruise.
Day 1: Delhi
Arrive in New Delhi and transfer to The Oberoi.
The hotel room is available for immediate check-in on
arrival.
Afternoon: Visit the walled city of Old Delhi, Guarded
by the Red Fort (a World Heritage Site) built in 1648.
Its narrow alleys are dotted with countless landmarks
including India’s largest mosque, the Jama Masjid and
the legendary marketplace of Chandni Chowk that
stocks everything from spices and perfumes, to
jewellery and dress materials.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 2: Delhi - Jaipur
Morning: Depart by road for Jaipur (approximately 4
hours drive).
Afternoon: A tour of the City Palace, Hawa Mahal, also
known as the ‘Palace of Winds’ and the fascinating
observatory built by Raja Jai Singh in 1728.
Evening: Experience the traditional ‘Aarti’ (prayer) at
the ancient Shiva Temple within the hotel followed by a
rejuvenating spa therapy at the Oberoi Spa.
Overnight at the hotel
ITINERARY 1 – Delhi-Jaipur-Agra-Delhi (6 Days)
Day 3: Jaipur
Morning: Yoga session at the hotel.
Afternoon: A visit to the Amber Fort. An elephant ride
takes you up to the fort. Spend rest of the day shopping
in the city for gem stones, silver jewellery and hand
painted textiles.
Evening: An insight into Rajasthani culture and its past
by a historian.
Overnight at the hotel
Delhi
JaipurAgra
Day 4: Jaipur - Agra
Morning: Depart for Agra by road. Visit the ancient city
of Fatehpur Sikri enroute to Agra.
On arrival in Agra, check in at The Oberoi Amarvilas.
Afternoon: Visit Agra Fort (a World Heritage Site) and
Itmad-ud-Daulah, regarded as an imminent precursor of
the Taj Mahal.
Evening: Get an insight into the legacies of the Mughal
Empire by a historian.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 5: Agra
Morning: Visit the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders
of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Evening: At leisure.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 6: Agra - Delhi
Morning: Depart by road for Delhi.
On arrival in Delhi, check in at The Oberoi.
Evening: At leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
ITINERARY 1 – Delhi-Jaipur-Agra-Delhi
Day 1: Delhi
Arrive in New Delhi and transfer to The Oberoi.
The hotel room is available for immediate check-in on
arrival.
Afternoon: Visit the walled city of Old Delhi, Guarded by the
Red Fort (a World Heritage Site) built in 1648. Its narrow
alleys are dotted with countless landmarks including India’s
largest mosque, the Jama Masjid and the legendary
marketplace of Chandni Chowk that stocks everything from
spices and perfumes, to jewellery and dress materials.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 2: Delhi - Udaipur
Morning: Spend the morning relaxing in your room or enjoy a
massage at the Oberoi Spa.
Afternoon: Depart by air for Udaipur (1 hour 35 minutes
flight). On arrival in Udaipur, transfer to The Oberoi
Udaivilas.
Evening: Visit the Bada Mahal Wildlife Conservatory, a
natural home to peacocks, wild boar and spotted deer,
located adjacent to the hotel. Visit the 200 year old hunting
lodge of the Maharanas of Udaipur and witness frescoes done
in the ‘Gotai’ style using lime and marble paste.
Overnight at the hotel
ITINERARY 2 – Delhi-Udaipur-Jaipur-Delhi
Day 3: Udipur
Morning: Yoga session at the hotel, followed by a tour
of the city including a visit to the magnificent City
Palace, the Museum and the grand 400 year old Jagdish
Temple devoted to Lord Vishnu.
Afternoon: Shopping excursion followed by an Ayurvedic
massage at the Oberoi Spa.
Evening: A candlelit dinner overlooking the Lake
Pichola.
Overnight at the hotel
Delhi
UdaipurAgra
Day 4: Udaipur - Jaipur
Morning: Depart by road for Jaipur (approximately 6 hours drive)
The Oberoi Rajvilas.
Evening: Relax at the hotel and take an insight into Rajasthani
culture and its past by a historian.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 5: Jaipur
Morning: Yoga session at the hotel followed by a tour of the City
Palace, Hawa Mahal, also known as the ‘Palace of Winds’ and the
fascinating observatory built by Raja Jai Singh in 1728.
Afternoon: A visit to the Amber Fort. An elephant ride takes you up
to the fort.
Evening: Spend the day shopping in the city for gem stones, silver
jewellery and hand painted textiles.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 6: Jaipur - Delhi
Morning: Depart for Delhi by air (approximately 50 minutes flight)
Arrive in New Delhi and transfer to The Oberoi.
The hotel room is available for immediate check-in on arrival.
Choice of sightseeing or shopping.
Next morning: Transfer to the airport for your onward destination.
ITINERARY 2 – Delhi-Udaipur-Jaipur-Delhi
Day 1: Mumbai
Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to The Oberoi.
The hotel room is available for immediate check-in on
arrival.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 2: Mumbai - Udaipur
Morning: Spend the morning taking a stroll on the
beautiful marine drive and Gateway of India.
Afternoon: Depart by air for Udaipur (1 hour 30 minutes
flight). On arrival in Udaipur, transfer to The Oberoi
Udaivilas.
Evening: Visit the Bada Mahal Wildlife Conservatory, a
natural home to peacocks, wild boar and spotted deer,
located adjacent to the hotel. Visit the 200 year old
hunting lodge of the Maharanas of Udaipur and witness
frescoes done in the ‘Gotai’ style using lime and marble
paste.
Overnight at the hotel
ITINERARY 3 – Mumbai-Jaipur-Udaipur-Mumbai
Day 3: Udaipur
Morning: Yoga session at the hotel, followed by a tour
of the city including a visit to the magnificent City
Palace, the Museum and the grand 400 year old Jagdish
Temple devoted to Lord Vishnu.
Afternoon: Shopping excursion followed by an Ayurvedic
massage at the Oberoi Spa.
Evening: A candlelit dinner overlooking the Lake
Pichola.
Overnight at the hotel
Udaipur
Mumbai
Jaipur
Day 4: Udaipur - Jaipur
Morning: Depart by road for Jaipur (approximately 6 hours drive)
The Oberoi Rajvilas.
Evening: Relax at the hotel and take an insight into Rajasthani
culture and its past by a historian.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 5: Jaipur
Morning: Yoga session at the hotel followed by a tour of the City
Palace, Hawa Mahal, also known as the ‘Palace of Winds’ and the
fascinating observatory built by Raja Jai Singh in 1728.
Afternoon: A visit to the Amber Fort. An elephant ride takes you up
to the fort.
Evening: Spend the day shopping in the city for gem stones, silver
jewellery and hand painted textiles.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 6: Jaipur - Mumbai
Morning: Depart for Mumbai by air (approximately 1 hour 45
minutes flight)
Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to The Oberoi.
The hotel room is available for immediate check-in on arrival.
Choice of sightseeing or shopping.
Next morning: Transfer to the airport for your onward destination.
ITINERARY 3 – Mumbai-Jaipur-Udaipur-Mumbai