Kochi (Cochin)

One of the best-known structures in the world, Agra’s fabled Taj Mahal will awe your senses and forever capture your heart. Considered to be the finest example of Mughal architecture, the Taj Mahal is a glistening mass of white marble and semi-precious stones set amid impeccably landscaped grounds. This program includes the opportunity to visit two UNESCO world heritage sites: the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort both of which are legacies from Mughal times.

Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC), CPAP breathing machines or scooters should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour.

DAY 1 – March 30, 2024

After disembarkation from the ship in Cochin, you will proceed to the airport for your flight to Delhi.

Upon arrival at the Cochin airport, you will receive boarding passes and proceed through security. Your bags will be transported to the airport in a separate truck for an advance check-in. Lunch is arranged at an airport hotel.

On arrival in Delhi, transfer to your hotel for check-in.

Dinner is included at the hotel.

DAY 2 – March 31, 2024

After breakfast, check out and drive to Agra via the new Yamuna Expressway with vistas of India’s vast rural farming countryside.

Agra, the city of Taj Mahal was one of the grand cities of South Asia. With the arrival of the Mughals in 1526 led by Babur, Agra entered a completely new era during the reign of emperors Akbar, Jehangir and Shah Jahan. Akbar made it a great center for learning, art, commerce and culture. Its cosmopolitan bazaars and its strategic location on the river Jamuna, was altogether a worthier setting for the focus of an empire.

Upon arrival in Agra check-in to your hotel.

After lunch visit the Agra Fort, a World Heritage Site credited to Emperor Akbar, India’s great visionary. His sons and theirs added to this imposing structure situated by the banks of the Yamuna River. The astonishing palaces, mosques and audience halls contained within its massive walls of red sandstone became once more a monumental mission of the Mughal Empire embellished by the artistic fusion of Islamic and Hindu tradition.

Then you will visit the Taj Mahal for sunset. With its incredible lacy white grandeur, it is perhaps the most perfect architectural monument in the world. In memory of his wife, the great Mughal emperor Shah Jehan planned this most extravagant and incomparable monument built for love. Although amazingly graceful from any angle, it is the close-up detail, which is really astounding. At sunset, the monument appears to change its hue, tinted by the glow of the setting sun.

Back at your hotel, and after some time to freshen up, enjoy the classical dance form of Kathak in the ballroom. A buffet dinner follows the dance performance.

Day 3 – April 1, 2024

This morning you will discover the Taj Mahal at dawn. Coffee, tea, juices and rolls are served in the lobby prior to your departure.

Return to your hotel for breakfast.

Morning options following breakfast:

•Visit the Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah in the old city, the first Mughal structure pioneering the extensive use

of `pietra dura’, the inlay work of marble, so characteristic of the Taj Mahal. This mausoleum is small and squat when compared to the Taj, but the more human scale has its own attraction, and the skillfully patterned surface of the tomb is exquisite.

•At the hotel, Agra’s leading astrologer will be available for consultation. Appointments for an analysis of your personal horoscope can be made at the Regent Cruises Hospitality desk

•Take a look at some of Agra’s famous shopping. Kohinoor, erstwhile jewelers to the Mughal court, featured in National Geographic. Old emerald necklaces, enamel, jewelry, silver, pocket watches in Gold and silver, textiles and embroidery form part of their private collection. The Marble Inlay factories steeped in this decorative art culture are also a specialty of Agra.

Return to your hotel for lunch.

Later, drive back to Delhi and check-in to your hotel.

Dinner is served at the hotel.

Overnight in Delhi.

Day 4 – April 2, 2024

After breakfast, transfer to the Delhi airport. At the airport, collect boarding passes and proceed through security and then onto the plane for the flight to Mumbai.

Upon arrival in Mumbai, transfer to the pier to rejoin your ship.

A separate van will be provided for transportation of your luggage to the pier

NOTE: Pending confirmed flight details, this program has been planned so that World Cruise Guestss will be back in time for the planned event in Mumbai.

Land Program Step by Step:

Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

Day 1

9:00am The ship is scheduled to arrive in Cochin

10:00am After immigration and custom formalities, disembark and transfer to Cochin airport with an

overview of the city en-route

Baggage is transported in a separate van for a pre-check-in

1:00pm Arrive at an airport hotel for lunch

2:30pm Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

4:15pm Depart Cochin for Delhi (flight details TBA and subject to change)

7:20pm Arrive Delhi and transfer to your hotel

8:00pm Check in

From 8:30pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the JW Marriott Hotel New Delhi Aerocity or similar hotel

Day 2

6:30am Breakfast at the hotel

8:00am Depart for Agra via the Yamuna Expressway

12:00pm Arrive in Agra and check-in to your hotel

From 12:30pm Lunch and leisure time

2:00pm Visit Agra Fort

4:30pm Visit the Taj Mahal for a sunset experience

7:00pm Classical Kathak dance performance

From 7:30pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at ITC Mughal or similar hotel

Day 3

5:15am Tea, coffee, juices and rolls served in the lobby

5:45am Depart for the Taj Mahal

6:15 – 7:30am Sunrise visit of the monument

From 8am Breakfast at the hotel

Morning options

9:30am-12:30pm 1. Visit Itmad-Ud-Daulah

10:00am – 12:30pm 2. Shuttles to local market and marble inlay factory

10:00 am–12:30pm 3. Appointment with the local astrologer

12:30 – 2:00pm Lunch is served at the hotel

2:30pm Drive back to Delhi

6:30pm Arrive and check-in to your hotel

From 7:30pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the JW Marriott Hotel New Delhi Aerocity or similar hotel

Day 4

From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel

8:30am Transfer to the airport

8:45am Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

10:20am Flight to Delhi (flight details TBA and subject to change)

12:35pm Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to the pier

Baggage is transported in a separate van to the pier

2:30pm Arrive at the pier and re-board the ship

Expected Weather:

Days are sunny and comfortable with temperatures between 30 to 35°C (86 to 95°F).

The evenings are between 27 to 30°C (80 to 86°F).

What to Bring:

Casual wear for the day. Also, important is sun block, hat, sunglasses and comfortable walking shoes. As the Taj Mahal is also a mausoleum there are certain religious customs to be observed. As a token of respect, it is customary to remove your footwear before entering. Avoid tops with spaghetti straps and short shorts for ladies – knee length shorts are okay for ladies and gents.

Currency:

Indian Rupees. US Dollars are widely accepted

Electricity:

220 – 240 volts. Hotel rooms are equipped with converters however we recommend you bring your own travel adaptors for electric devices as a backup.

Luggage:

Light luggage would be most suited for this trip. A maximum of 1 suitcase is permitted per person and one carry-on with a maximum of 7 kgs (15 lbs). Checked suitcases are not to weigh more than 15 kg (33 lbs) per airline regulations. Any luggage exceeding this amount will be subject to fees payable by the guest directly to the airline at the time of check-in.

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights in India (as per Airline regulations):

1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via Reservations at RSSC at least 1 month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations will result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which Regent Seven Seas Cruises nor our local ground operator be responsible for.

Guests brining a scooter will need to advise our Reservations team in advance. Specific details regarding the scooter will be required (as advised to us by the Indian airlines) including model, model number, a photo, maximum speed, ground clearance, turning radius, overall length & width of the base, seat type, weight, battery weight, battery requirements, maximum range per charge, battery charger information, battery type (detachable or not), maximum weight capacity, color.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

It is essential to have a valid Indian Visa in advance of this trip.

Guests must bring their passport with them

VERY IMPORTANT – The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.

Failure to have the required documents ahead of time will result in denial of travel and guests will have to pay for any expenses incurred in order to not proceed with the program.

Accommodation:

JW Marriott Hotel New Delhi Aerocity

Asset Area 4 – Hospitality District, Delhi Aerocity, New Delhi – 110037

Phone: (+91 11) 4521 2121

Agra:

ITC Mughal

Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh - 282001

Phone: +91 562 4021700

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.

Program Includes:

•2 nights at the JW Marriott Hotel New Delhi Aerocity or similar hotel including breakfast – Deluxe room

•1 night at the ITC Mughal including breakfast – Mughal Chambers room

•Transfers, sightseeing and road journeys using air-conditioned deluxe coaches

•Unlimited mineral water will be provided in the bus

•Lunches and dinners inclusive of house wines, beer, mineral water, sodas

•Economy class flights from Cochin to Delhi and from Delhi to Mumbai - Direct flights are not guaranteed

•Entrance fees and camera and video charges at the Taj Mahal monument

•Kathak dance performance

•Local fortuneteller

•The services of an accompanying Tour Manager from Cochin until Mumbai

Not Included:

•Any meals or beverages not listed in the itinerary

•Personal expenses

•Gratuities to drivers and guides

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, laundry and room service

•Excess or overweight luggage

•Indian visa

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.

Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 60 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 60 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.

Fly to Aurangabad to explore India’s most extraordinary cave temples carved out of sheer rock—the caves of Ajanta, where Buddhist monks once lived, and the Ellora Caves, which three different religious groups occupied.

Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour.

Due to the amount of walking, at times on uneven surfaces, this program is not recommended for anyone with walking difficulty or if a cane, walker or wheelchair are used.

Day 1 – Saturday, March 30

After disembarking the ship in Cochin, you will transfer to the airport for a flight to Mumbai. En-route you will have a city tour of Cochin and lunch at a local hotel. Your bags will be transported to the airport in a separate baggage van for an advance check-in.

Upon arrival in Mumbai, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for the evening. Dinner is included.

Day 2 – Sunday, March 31, 2024

Early in the morning, a light continental breakfast is served in the lobby prior to transferring to the airport for a flight to Aurangabad.

At the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security. Refreshments are served on board the flight.

Upon arrival in Aurangabad, transfer to your hotel for breakfast and use the facilities.

After breakfast, drive into the countryside towards the Ajanta Caves. In the early 19th Century, a group of British officers accidentally came upon these caves, which were buried under debris and screened by foliage. The first of these caves was hollowed out from the site of the cliff in the 2nd century B.C.

Strung out in a sweeping horseshoe shape in an inner fold of the hills, the caves were a secluded retreat for Buddhist monastic orders and yet offered easy access to the trade routes that swung past here to the coast. With little more than hammers and chisels, the monks painstakingly and slowly created underground shrines, chapels and monasteries, where they lived, taught and carried out ritual performances. The 30 caves of Ajanta, some unfinished, span a period of 800 years and contain numerous images of the Buddha.

A packed lunch prepared by your hotel is served before returning to the hotel.

The evening is at leisure with an option to revisit the Aurangabad town.

Dinner is included at your hotel

Day 3 – Monday, April 1, 2024

After breakfast at your hotel, you drive into the picturesque hills to the north and visit the Ellora Caves. This magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site contains 34 Hindu, Jain and Buddhist caves cut into volcanic lava cliffs.

The once-abandoned, more than 2,000-year-old caves lie near an ancient trade route and are believed to be the work of priests and craftsmen who used the route. The carvings, ornamentation and frescoes inside tell the stories of how these three religions evolved.

The most marvelous cave temple is Kailash. The world’s largest monolithic sculpture, it was sculpted out of a rock by 7,000 laborers over a 150-year period. The story of its construction is inscribed on the copper plate grant of King Krishna I, under whose patronage the temple was carved. Architecturally and sculpturally, art historians consider this to be the finest cave temple in the world.

Following your exploration of the Ellora Caves, you will return to the hotel for lunch and some time at leisure.

In the afternoon visit the revered Bibi Ka Maqbara tomb, known as the Black Taj because it is so similar to the Taj Mahal in Agra. Also visit a Himroo weaving workshop, where fine shawls, sarees and textiles are produced. Himroo merchandise was originally woven with pure gold and silver threads for royal families.

Upon returning to the hotel, dinner in included.

Note on walking and steps:

Ajanta Caves are carved into the side of a hill range. From the bottom, it takes 105 steps to get to the top which is typically an easy climb for anyone without walking difficulty. Once at the top, there is a gradual walk from one cave to the next. For guests with difficulties, our local operator can arrange Palanquins (a conveyance usually for one person that consists of an enclosed litter borne on the shoulders of men by means of poles) up and down as well as from one cave to the next, if necessary.

Ellora Caves are on ground level over a spread-out area. Battery buses shuttle between caves. The only place where a climb is encountered is at the Kailash Temple where there are easy steps however once again those with walking difficulties can be carried up and down.

Day 4 – Tuesday, April 2, 2024

Coffee, tea and juices are served in the lobby prior to transferring to the airport for an early morning flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival at airport, receive your boarding passes and proceed through security.

Breakfast will be served on the flight.

Arriving in Mumbai, you will be met and transferred to the pier with an overview of the city en-route.

NOTE: Pending confirmed flight details, this program has been planned so that World Cruise Guestss will be back in time for the planned event in Mumbai.

Land Program Step by Step:

Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

Day 1 - times are subject to change based on actual flight details once confirmed. Below is a sample itinerary

9:00am The ship is scheduled to arrive in Mangalore

9:30am After clearing immigration and custom formalities, transfer to the airport with an overview of the city

12:00pm Arrive at an airport hotel for lunch

1:30pm Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

3:00pm Depart Cochin by Indigo Airlines flight for Mumbai (Flight details TBA and subject to change)

Refreshments are served aloft

5:00pm Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to your hotel

6:00pm Arrive at the hotel and check-in

7:30pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Taj Land’s End Hotel or similar hotel

Day 2 - times are subject to change based on actual flight details once confirmed. Below is a sample itinerary

4:00am Tea, coffee and rolls served in the lobby

4:30am Transfer to the airport for the Indigo Airlines flight to Aurangabad

5:00am Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

6:25am Flight departs for Aurangabad (flight details TBA and subject to change)Refreshments served aloft

7:30am Arrive Aurangabad and transfer to your hotel

8:30am Arrive at the hotel for breakfast and use the facilities

9:30am Drive to the Ajanta Caves

12:00pm Arrive and visit the Caves

2:00pm A packed lunch is served before returning to the hotel

6:00pm Arrive at the hotel

From 7:30pm Dinner

Overnight at the Taj Vivanta or similar hotel

Day 3

From 7:00am Breakfast is served at the hotel

8:30am Proceed to the Ellora Caves

9:30am Arrive and visit the Caves

12:30pm Return to your hotel

1:30pm Arrive at the hotel for a late lunch

1:30 – 4:00pm Lunch and leisure time

From 4:00pm Sightseeing of Aurangabad city including Bibi-ka-Maqbara (the Black Taj and the

Himroo Weaving workshop

6:30pm Return to your hotel

From 7:30pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Taj Vivanta or similar hotel

Day 4 - times are subject to change based on actual flight details once confirmed. Below is a sample itinerary

5:15am Tea, coffee and juices are served in the lobby

6:00am Transfer to the airport

6:30am Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

8:00am Depart Aurangabad by Indigo Airlines for Mumbai (flight details TBA and subject to change)

Breakfast is served aloft

8:50am Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to the pier with an overview of the city en-route

1:00pm Approximate arrival at the pier to re-board your ship

Expected Weather:

Days are sunny with temperatures between 30 to 35°C (86 to 95°F).

What to Bring:

Casual wear for the day. Sun block, hat, shades and comfortable walking shoes are important.

At the Caves, it is customary to remove your footwear before entering.

Currency:

US Dollars are widely accepted.

Electricity:

220 – 240 volts. Hotel rooms are equipped with converters however we recommend brining your own international travel adaptor for electric devices just in case.

Luggage:

Light luggage would be most suited for this trip.

A maximum of 1 checked suitcase per person is permitted free of charge (15 kg or 33 lbs) and one carry-on (7 kg or 15 lbs). Anything over this allowance will be subject to fees imposed by the airline and payable by guests at check in for each flight.

Airline & type of aircraft (subject to change):

Indigo Airlines – Airbus A320

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights per airline regulations (subject to change as each airline has their own regulations)

1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via the Reservations Team at least one month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations may result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which the cruise line nor our local ground operator be responsible for.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

A passport that is valid at least 6 months after travel is required as well as an Indian Visa

Please check with your local embassy for any special visa requirements for your nationality

VERY IMPORTANT – The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.

Failure to have the required documents ahead of time or incorrect names on flight tickets will result in either denial of travel or ticket re-purchase and guests will be responsible for any fees incurred.

Accommodation:

Mumbai

Taj Lands End

Byramji Jeejeebhoy Road, Bandstand, Bandra (West), Mumbai, 400050

Phone: +91 22-6668-1234

Aurangabad

Taj Vivanta Aurangabad

8 N 12, CIDCO, Dr. Rafiq Zakaria Marg, Rauza Bagh, Aurangabad, Maharashtra - 431003

Phone: +91 240 6613737

*We will only substitute a hotel in unforeseen situations. If a hotel is substituted, it will be similar and with equal ratings and standards and guests will be notified in advance. If guests are not notified of any changes before departure, then the hotels listed in this program will be used.

Program Includes:

•1 night at the Taj Lands End in a Deluxe Room

•2 nights at the Taj Vivanta in a Deluxe Delight Room

•All meals with dinner and lunch inclusive of house wines, beer, mineral water, sodas

•Packed lunch during the excursion to Ajanta Caves

•Transfers and sightseeing as indicated in the itinerary using an air-conditioned deluxe bus

•Unlimited mineral water will be provided in the bus at all times

•Economy class flights Cochin - Mumbai – Aurangabad – Mumbai (direct flights not guaranteed)

•Entrance fees and camera charges at the monuments

•Accompanying local Tour Manager throughout the program

Not Included:

•Gratuities to drives, guides and tour manager

•Indian Visa fee

•Any meals or beverages not listed in the itinerary

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service

•Excess or overweight luggage fees

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include: inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.

Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 60 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 60 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.

One of the best-known structures in the world, Agra’s fabled Taj Mahal will awe your senses and forever capture your heart. Considered to be the finest example of Mughal architecture, the Taj Mahal is a glistening mass of white marble and semi-precious stones set amid impeccably landscaped grounds. This program includes the opportunity to visit two UNESCO world heritage sites: the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort both of which are legacies from Mughal times.

Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour. Guests who have wheelchairs and need assistance will be required to hire a local assistant at own cost to help with boarding of coaches and flights. Advance notice is required if this service is required. Guests must be able to get in and out of the tour coaches with little to no assistance.

DAY 1 – May 14, 2026

After disembarkation from the ship in Cochin, you will proceed to the airport for your flight to Delhi.

Upon arrival at the Cochin airport, you will receive boarding passes and proceed through security. A lunch box will be provided at the airport and light refreshments will be served aloft.

On arrival in Delhi, transfer to your hotel for check-in and dinner.

DAY 2 – May 15, 2026

After breakfast, check out and drive to Agra via the new Yamuna Expressway with vistas of India’s vast rural farming countryside.

Agra, the city of Taj Mahal was one of the grand cities of South Asia. With the arrival of the Mughals in 1526 led by Babur, Agra entered a completely new era during the reign of emperors Akbar, Jehangir and Shah Jahan. Akbar made it a great center for learning, art, commerce and culture. Its cosmopolitan bazaars and its strategic location on the river Jamuna, was altogether a worthier setting for the focus of an empire.

Upon arrival in Agra check-in to your hotel. Oberoi Amarvilas is voted as one of the top three hotels of the world. Its classical architecture is complemented by elaborate Mughul gardens, terraced lawns, fountains, reflection pools and pavilions and every room has a frontal view of the Taj Mahal.

After lunch visit Agra Fort, a World Heritage Site credited to Emperor Akbar, India’s great visionary. His sons and

theirs added to this imposing structure situated by the banks of the Yamuna River. The astonishing palaces, mosques and audience halls contained within its massive walls of red sandstone became once more a monumental mission of the Mughal Empire embellished by the artistic fusion of Islamic and Hindu tradition.

Back at your hotel, and after some time to freshen up, enjoy the classical dance form of Kathak in the ballroom. A buffet dinner follows the dance performance.

Day 3 – May 16, 2026

Enjoy tea, coffee, juices and rolls in the lobby before departing for the Taj Mahal. With its incredible lacy white grandeur, it is perhaps the most perfect architectural monument in the world. In memory of his wife, the great Mughal emperor Shah Jehan planned this most extravagant and incomparable monument built for love. Although amazingly graceful from any angle, it is the close-up detail, which is really astounding.

Return to your hotel for breakfast.

Morning and afternoon options will include the below with lunch at the hotel in between:

•Visit the Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah in the old city, the first Mughal structure pioneering the extensive use

of `pietra dura’, the inlay work of marble, so characteristic of the Taj Mahal. This mausoleum is small and squat when compared to the Taj, but the more human scale has its own attraction, and the skillfully patterned surface of the tomb is exquisite.

•At the hotel, Agra’s leading astrologer will be available for consultation. Appointments for an analysis of your personal horoscope can be made at the Regent Seven Seas Hospitality desk

•Take a look at some of Agra’s famous shopping …. Kohinoor, erstwhile jewelers to the Mughal court, featured in National Geographic. Old emerald necklaces, enamel, jewelry, silver, pocket watches in Gold and silver, textiles and embroidery form part of their private collection. The Marble Inlay factories steeped in this decorative art culture are also a specialty of Agra.

Later in the day revisit the Taj Mahal at sunset where the monument appears to change its hue, tinted by the glow of the setting sun.

Dinner will be served back at your hotel

Day 4 –May 17, 2026

Early this morning, return to Delhi for a flight to Mumbai. Tea, coffee, juices and rolls will be served in the lobby prior to departure.

At the airport, collect boarding passes and proceed through security and then onto the plane for the flight to Mumbai. Lunch will be served at the Delhi airport and refreshments served aloft.

Upon arrival in Mumbai, transfer to the pier to rejoin your ship.

Land Program Step by Step:

Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

Day 1

11:00am Disembark the ship in Cochin and transfer to the airport

12:00pm Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security. Lunch box provided at the airport

4:05pm Depart Cochin for a flight to Delhi (Flight details TBA and subject to change)

Light refreshments served on the flight

7:20pm Arrive in Delhi and transfer to your hotel

8:30pm Arrive and check-in. Soup and finger sandwiches are served

Overnight at The Oberoi Gurgaon or similar hotel

Day 2

7:00am Breakfast at your hotel

9:00am Depart for Agra by road

1:00pm Arrive in Agra and check-in to your hotel, lunch included followed by time at leisure

4:30pm Visit Agra Fort

7:00pm Classical Kathak dance performance at the hotel followed by dinner

Overnight at the Oberoi Amarvilas or similar hotel

Day 3

5:00am Tea, coffee, juices and rolls served in the lobby

5:30am Depart for the Taj Mahal at sunrise

From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel

Morning options

9:30-12:00pm (a) Tour of Itmad-Ud-Daulah

9:30-12:00pm (b) Shopping shuttle on the hour to the marble inlay factory and local markets

9:30-12:00pm (c) Appointments with Agra’s famous astrologer

12:30–2:00pm Lunch at the hotel

Afternoon options

2:00-4:30pm (a) Tour of Itmad-Ud-Daulah

2:00-4:30pm (b) Shopping shuttle on the hour to the marble inlay factory and local markets

2:00-4:30pm (c) Appointments with Agra’s famous astrologer

4:45pm Revisit the Taj Mahal at sunset

7:00pm Return to your hotel

From 7:30pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Oberoi Amarvilas or similar hotel

Day 4

5:30am Early breakfast at your hotel

7:00am Check out and drive back to Delhi

11:00am Arrive at the Delhi airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security. Lunch is served at the airport

12:45pm Flight from Delhi to Mumbai (Flight details TBA and subject to change)Refreshments are served mid flight

3:00pm Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to the pier

5:00pm Arrive at the pier and reboard your ship

NOTE:

Oberoi Gurgaon

•2 steps plus ramp from the lobby to the elevator area

•2 steps plus ramp from the elevator to the all-day dining restaurant

Oberoi Amarvilas

•3 flights of steps (5 each) along the path to get to the lobby

•Rooms: All floors are accessible from the lobby by elevator except for the first floor which has 4 easy steps to climb

•Restaurants: Accessible by the elevator from the rooms and lobby

•Ballroom & Jodha Gardens: located in the lobby level…4 to 6 easy steps to get to both these venues

Taj Mahal

•6 steps down from the first platform to get to the main mausoleum. 6 steps climb to the base of the mosque. 22 steps up to get to the main tomb. Wheelchair accessible only up to the base of the main mausoleum.

Agra Fort and Tomb of Itmad–Ud–Daulah:

•All these monuments have one or two easy steps plus ramps at different locations which are accessible by wheelchair

Expected Weather:

Delhi and Agra: Days are sunny and hot with temperatures between 30° to 35°C (86° to 95°F).

The evenings will be a bit cooler between 25° to 30°C (77° to 86°F).

What to Bring:

Casual wear for the day. Also, important is sun block, hat, sunglasses and comfortable walking shoes. As the Taj Mahal is also a mausoleum there are certain religious customs to be observed. As a token of respect, it is customary to remove your footwear before entering. Avoid tops with spaghetti straps and short shorts for ladies – knee length shorts are okay for ladies and gents.

Currency:

Indian Rupees. US Dollars are widely accepted

Electricity:

220 – 240 volts. Hotel rooms are equipped with converters however we recommend you bring your own travel adaptors for electric devices as a backup.

Proposed Aircraft type (subject to change):

IndiGo : Airbus 320 – All Economy seats

Air India – Airbus A319 – All Economy seats

Luggage:

Light luggage would be most suited for this trip. A maximum of 1 suitcase is permitted per person and one carry-on. Suitcases are not to weigh more than 15 kg (33 lbs) per airline regulations. Any luggage exceeding this amount will be subject to fees payable by the guest directly to the airline at the time of check-in.

Note:

Power banks and electronic equipment must be carried in hand luggage, not permitted in checked luggage

No sharp items are permitted in hand luggage i.e. scissor, nail cutter/file, razors

Liquids more than 100 ml are not permitted in hand luggage

Satellite phones and E-cigarettes are banned in India and need to be left on board the ship

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights in India (as per Airline regulations):

1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via Reservations at RSSC at least 1 month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations will result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which Regent Seven Seas Cruises nor our local ground operator be responsible for.

Guests brining a scooter will need to advise our Reservations team in advance. Specific details regarding the scooter will be required (as advised to us by the Indian airlines) including model, model number, a photo, maximum speed, ground clearance, turning radius, overall length and width of the base, seat type, weight, battery weight, battery requirements, maximum range per charge, battery charger information, battery type (detachable or not), maximum weight capacity, color.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

It is essential to have a valid Indian Visa in advance of this trip.

Guests must bring their passport with them

VERY IMPORTANT – The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.

Failure to have the required documents ahead of time will result in denial of travel and guests will have to pay for any expenses incurred in order to not proceed with the program.

Accommodation:

The Oberoi Gurgaon - Delhi

443, Udyog Vihar, Phase V, Gurgaon, Haryana – 122 016

Phone: +91 124 2451234

Agra:

Oberoi Amarvilas - Agra

Taj East Gate Road, Agra 282001, India

Phone: +91 562 2231515

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.

Program Includes:

•1 night at The Oberoi Gurgaon in Delhi or similar hotel – Deluxe room

•2 nights at The Oberoi Amarvilas - Premier Room

•Transfers, sightseeing and road journeys using air-conditioned deluxe coaches

•All meals inclusive of house wines, beer, mineral water, sodas and current taxes

•Economy class flights from Cochin to Delhi and from Delhi to Mumbai - Direct flights are not guaranteed

•Entrance fees and camera and video charges at the Taj Mahal monument

•Tours per the itinerary including morning and afternoon options on Day 3

•Kathak dance performance

•Local fortuneteller

•The services of an accompanying Tour Manager from Cochin until Mumbai

Not Included:

•Any meals or beverages not listed in the itinerary

•Personal expenses

•Gratuities to drivers and guides

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, laundry and room service

•Visa fees

•Excess or overweight luggage fees on flights

•Assistance for guests using a wheelchair

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.

Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.

One of the best-known structures in the world, Agra’s fabled Taj Mahal will awe your senses and forever capture your heart. Considered to be the finest example of Mughal architecture, the Taj Mahal is a glistening mass of white marble and semi-precious stones set amid impeccably landscaped grounds. This program includes the opportunity to visit two UNESCO world heritage sites: the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort both of which are legacies from Mughal times.

Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC), CPAP breathing machines or scooters should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour. The program is manageable for guests with mobility restrictions as long as they are travelling with someone to assist. Guests must be able to get on and off the tour coaches with little to no assistance. There will be various steps to negotiate at the hotel and sites visited (2-30 steps). Only the base of the Taj Mahal mausoleum is accessible to wheelchairs.

DAY 1 – April 17, 2026

After disembarking the ship in Cochin, you will proceed to the airport for your flight to Delhi. A lunch box will be served at the Cochin Airport and light refreshments will be served during the flight.

Upon arrival in Delhi, collect luggage and then proceed to your overnight hotel. Check in and enjoy dinner at the hotel before retiring for the evening.

DAY 2 – April 18, 2026

After an early breakfast, transfer with your guide to the Delhi Railway Station for a day trip to Agra city and the Taj Mahal. India’s rail network is the second largest system in the world, carrying millions daily. Sit back and enjoy what will surely become quite the memorable experience on the Gatimaan Express.

Agra, the city of Taj Mahal was one of the grand cities of South Asia. With the arrival of the Mughals in 1526 led by Babur, Agra entered a completely new era during the reign of emperors Akbar, Jehangir and Shah Jahan. Akbar made it a great center for learning, art, commerce and culture. Its cosmopolitan bazaars and its strategic location on the river Jamuna, was altogether a worthier setting for the focus of an empire.

Arriving in Agra, check-in to the ITC Mughal Hotel to freshen up before the short drive to view the Taj Mahal.

With its incredible lacy white grandeur, it is perhaps the most perfect architectural monument in the world. In memory of his wife, the great Mughal emperor Shah Jehan planned this most extravagant and incomparable monument built for love. Although amazingly graceful from any angle, it is the close-up detail, which is really astounding.

Return to your hotel for lunch before departing for a visit to Agra Fort, a World Heritage Site credited to Emperor Akbar, India’s great visionary. His sons and theirs added to this imposing structure situated by the banks of the Yamuna River. The astonishing palaces, mosques and audience halls contained within its massive walls of red sandstone became once more a monumental mission of the Mughal Empire embellished by the artistic fusion of Islamic and Hindu tradition

You will also have some time to browse shops such as Kohinoor, erstwhile jewelers to the Mughal court, featured in National Geographic. Old emerald necklaces, enamel, jewelry, silver, pocket watches in Gold and silver, textiles and embroidery form part of their private collection. The Marble Inlay factories steeped in this decorative art culture are also a specialty of Agra.

Later in the day, return to the railway station for the return journey to Delhi on the Gatimaan Express.

Transfer to your hotel for dinner and overnight.

DAY 3 – April 19, 2026

After breakfast, return to the airport for a flight to Goa. Light refreshments will be served on the flight.

Upon arrival in Goa, transfer to the pier where you will re-board the ship.

Land Program Step by Step:

Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

Day 1

Eat a hearty breakfast/brunch before disembarking the ship

12:00pm Disembark, clear immigration and customs and transfer to the airport

1:45pm Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

Lunch box served at Cochin airport

3:20pm Flight from Cochin to Delhi (flight details TBA and subject to change)

Refreshments served aloft

6:50pm Flight arrives in Delhi, collect luggage and transfer to your hotel

8:30pm Arrive, dinner and check-in

Overnight at the LaLit Delhi or similar hotel

Day 2

From 6am Breakfast at the hotel

7:00am Depart for the railway station

7:30am Board the Gatimaan Express

8:10am Train departs Delhi for Agra (subject to change)

9:50am Arrive Agra and transfer to your hotel to freshen up

10:30am Drive to the Taj Mahal

10:45am Arrive at the Taj Mahal for a comprehensive visit

12:45pm Return to your hotel

1:00-2:15pm Lunch at the hotel

2:15pm Depart for Agra Fort

2:30–3:30pm Arrive and visit the Fort

3:30pm Depart for the local markets

3:45pm Arrive and visit the markets and marble inlay factory

4:45pm Depart for the railway station

5:15pm Arrive at the station

5:35pm The train departs Agra (subject to change)

7:30pm Train arrives in Delhi, transfer to your hotel

8:30pm Arrive at the hotel, check-in and dinner

Overnight at the LaLit Delhi or similar hotel

Day 3

From 7am Breakfast at the hotel

8:30am Transfer to the airport

9:00am Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

10:50am Flight from Delhi to Goa (flight details TBA and subject to change

Refreshments served aloft

1:25pm Arrive Goa, collect luggage and transfer to the pier

2:30pm Arrive and re-board the ship

Steps on tour:

Taj Mahal

•Six steps at the entryway

•Six steps at the mosque

•Twenty-two steps to access the main tomb in the mausoleum

•Wheelchair accessible only up to the base of the mausoleum (tomb not wheelchair accessible)

Agra Fort

•One or two easy steps plus ramps at different locations which are accessible by wheelchair

Expected Weather:

Delhi and Agra: Days are sunny and hot with temperatures between 30° to 35°C (86° to 95°F). The evenings get a bit cooler between 25° to 30°C (77° to 86°F).

What to Bring:

Casual wear for the day. Also, important is sun block, hat, sunglasses and comfortable walking shoes. As the Taj Mahal is also a mausoleum there are certain religious customs to be observed. As a token of respect, it is customary to remove your footwear before entering. Avoid tops with spaghetti straps and short shorts for ladies – knee length shorts are okay for ladies and gents.

Note:

Power banks and electronic equipment must be carried in hand luggage, not permitted in checked luggage

No sharp items are permitted in hand luggage i.e. scissor, nail cutter/file, razors

Liquids more than 100 ml are not permitted in hand luggage

Satellite phones and E-cigarettes are banned in India and need to be left on board the ship

Currency:

Indian Rupees.

US Dollars are widely accepted

Electricity:

220 – 240 volts. Hotel rooms are equipped with converters however we recommend you bring your own travel adaptors for electric devices as a backup.

Proposed Aircraft type (subject to change):

Air India: Airbus 319

Indigo: Airbus 320

Economy class seats

Luggage:

Light luggage would be most suited for this trip. A maximum of 1 suitcase is permitted per person and one carry-on with a maximum of 7 kgs (15 lbs). Checked suitcases are not to weigh more than 15 kg (33 lbs) per airline regulations. Any luggage exceeding this amount will be subject to fees payable by the guest directly to the airline at the time of check-in.

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights in India (as per Airline regulations):

1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via Reservations at RSSC at least 1 month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations will result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which Regent Seven Seas Cruises nor our local ground operator be responsible for.

Guests brining a scooter will need to advise our Reservations team in advance. Specific details regarding the scooter will be required (as advised to us by the Indian airlines) including model, model number, a photo, maximum speed, ground clearance, turning radius, overall length & width of the base, seat type, weight, battery weight, battery requirements, maximum range per charge, battery charger information, battery type (detachable or not), maximum weight capacity, color.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

It is essential to have a valid Indian Visa in advance of this trip.

Guests must bring their passport with them

VERY IMPORTANT – The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.

Failure to have the required documents ahead of time will result in denial of travel and guests will have to pay for any expenses incurred in order to not proceed with the program.

The above information is subject to change and serves as a guide only. We would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our guests that it is the ultimate and sole responsibility of the guest to ensure they meet the entry requirements for each destination.

If traveling internationally, the countries you are flying to and/ or connecting through may have different document requirements and as such we encourage you to visit the government and airport websites of every country you will be traveling to throughout the journey to familiarize yourself with their requirements for your nationality.

Accommodation:

The LaLit New Delhi

Barakhamba Avenue, Connaught Place, New Delhi-110001

Phone: (+91-11) 4444 7777

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotel listed in this program.

Program Includes:

•2 nights at LaLit Delhi in Agra including breakfasts – Deluxe room

•Transfers, sightseeing and road journeys using air-conditioned deluxe coaches

•Unlimited mineral water will be provided in the bus

•Lunches and dinners inclusive of house wines, beer, mineral water, sodas

•Economy class flights per the itinerary - Direct flights are not guaranteed

•Entrance fees and camera and video charges at the Taj Mahal monument

•The services of an accompanying Tour Manager throughout the entire program

Not Included:

•Any meals or beverages not listed in the itinerary

•Personal expenses

•Gratuities to drivers and guides

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, laundry and room service

•Excess or overweight luggage on the flights

•Indian visa

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.

Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.

Explore the key attractions in and around Nepal’s capital of Kathmandu, many of them World Heritage Sites, including temples, royal cities and other architectural treasures.

Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour.

Due to the amount of walking, at times on uneven surfaces, this program is not recommended for anyone with walking difficulty or if a cane, walker or wheelchair are used.

Day 1 – April 17, 2024

After clearing immigration and Customs in Cochin, you will transfer to the airport and fly to Bangalore. A lunch box is served at the Banglaore airport while in transit.

Upon arriving, you will be assisted for a connecting flight to Kathmandu. Dinner is served on the flight.

In Kathmandu, you will be assisted with visa issuance and baggage collection.

NOTE: Please have on hand 1 passport sized photo for the Nepal Visa - Your tour manager will collect this from you in flight.

Home to eight of the world’s 10 tallest peaks, the tiny kingdom of Nepal is ringed by the Himalayas. It is a land of contrasts, harboring a wealth of Buddhist and Hindu art and architecture. Nepal’s colorful capital city Kathmandu reflects 2,000 years of peaceful co-existence and exudes a unique blend of Hinduism and Buddhism, which is distinctly Nepalese in character.

Nepal has eight World Heritage sites and has won two Heritage Awards, one for the city of Bhaktapur and the other for the Dwarika’s Hotel, where you will spend the evening.

Described as a “living, breathing museum, displaying Nepal’s best craftsmanship from the 13th century,” the hotel rooms and public areas at Dwarika’s Hotel reflect medieval architectural traditions. Every brick is handmade, every piece of wood original and centuries old.

Day 2 – April 18, 2024

Early in the morning, you will transfer to the airport for a flight-seeing excursion (weather permitting), soaring over glacier-clad, cloud-shrouded peaks and other landscapes around Mount Everest. Afterwards, you will return to the hotel for breakfast.

Following breakfast, you will have some time at leisure and before noon you will drive to the Traditional Inn in Patan for lunch. After lunch you will visit Patan, one of three royal cities in the valley. Commissioned by India’s great emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century, this World Heritage Site within four stupas is known as the City of Fine Arts.

The temples around the main square are impressive as is the Patan Museum, which is housed within a picturesque palace setting. In an international campaign by UNESCO for safeguarding monuments in Kathmandu Valley, the Austrian government joined hands with Nepal to restore and preserve Patan.

Newari architectural style blossomed in the form of temples, palaces, residences and squares between the 12th and 18th centuries, representing a timelessness in Nepalese architecture and its definitive characteristics, often guided by religious and socio-cultural norms.

You will enjoy a cup of tea in a 150-year-old restored Newari home. Its ground level is for daily activities and storage, while the floors above contain living spaces and bedrooms. The top floor serves as the family shrine and cooking and dining area.

Next, you will see Patan’s Living Goddess, who typically acknowledges greetings of devotees from the balcony of her temple residence. Known as kumaris, Nepal’s living goddesses live in seclusion and rarely speak in public.

After a private audience with the goddess it’s on to the Singing Bowl workshops. According to the oral traditions, singing bowls were brought to Nepal from India in the 8th century along with Buddha’s teachings. The Nepalese were expert bronze makers which allowed them to perfect these bowls which are commonly used as a tool for meditation. The beautiful rich tones the bowls produce are thought to help achieve a state of deep relaxation.

There’s time for individual exploration before departing for Thamel - Kathmandu’s hip street. Pulsating Thamel has become a world address for international trekkers, mountaineers and curio shoppers looking for a bargain.

Transfer to and enjoy drinks and dinner at a local favorite “Sam’s One Tree Café”. Following dinner the group returns to the hotel for the evening.

Day 3 – April 19, 2024

After breakfast, you will drive to the World Heritage city of Bhadgaon, also known as Bhaktapur. Founded in the 9th century, Bhaktapur, also known as the City of Devotees, is revered for its medieval art and architecture. As you meander around Durbar Square, you will see the 55 Window Palace and Nyatapola temple, considered to be the finest example of Pagoda-style architecture.

Following lunch at Kathmandu’s popular Chez Caroline Café, you will return to the hotel.

Later, you will visit the great Stupa at Bodhnath, one of the largest of its kind in the world. Constructed in the 14th century, the stupa is built on an octagonal base, inset with prayer wheels. Bodhnath is also a center of the Tibetan community in Nepal, where you will visit a monastery and interact with a senior monk. A visit is also made to the Thangka Painting Studio, which renowned artist Lok Chitrakar founded. The sacred art form of Thangkas is a visual interpretation of Buddhist and Hindu philosophies that date from before the 7th century C.E.

You will then visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pashupatinath, one of the holiest Hindu temples and a major pilgrimage site dedicated to the god Shiva. Situated within a natural setting on the bank of the sacred Bagmati River, the temple features a pagoda style, a gilded roof and a richly carved silver door.

After watching the Aarti prayer offering ceremony at the temple, you will return to the hotel to spend the evening. Dinner is included at your hotel.

Day 4 - April 20, 2024

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and the morning is at leisure.

Later, after a light lunch in the Courtyard, you will transfer to the airport for the flight from Kathmandu to Mumbai. Upon arrival in Mumbai, you will transfer to the pier and re-embark the ship.

Overland Program Step by Step

The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations beyond our control. All program details, including timings and flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Destination Services will provide a final itinerary with up-to-date details once you board the ship. Please review the final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

Day 1 - timings below are for reference only and are subject to change based on flight details once

confirmed

10:30am Disembark and transfer to Cochin Airport

12:00pm Arrive at the Airport and complete check-in formalities, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

1:55pm Depart Cochin for Bangalore - light snack served on board

Flight details TBA and subject to change

3:00pm Arrive in Bangalore and proceed to the International terminal and complete check-in,

Immigration and other formalities for your flight to Kathmandu

A lunch box is served at the airport while in transit

5:50pm Depart for Kathmandu -dinner served on board

Flight details TBA and subject to change

9:05pm Arrive in Kathmandu. You are met at immigration, assistance with visa issuance

(1 passport photo is required) customs and transfer to your nearby hotel

9:45pm Arrive at your hotel and check in

Overnight at Dwarika’s Hotel or similar hotel

Day 2

5:30am Tea and coffee are served in the lobby before transferring to the airport

6:00am Transfer to the domestic terminal

6:15am Arrive, receive boarding passes and proceed to security before boarding the aircraft

6:45am Depart on an hour’s flightseeing (weather permitting) to the Everest

Region, featuring Mt. Everest and other legendry Himalayan peaks

7:45am Return to Kathmandu Airport and transfer back to your hotel

8:15am Breakfast in the Toran Restaurant

12:00pm Transfer to Patan

12:45pm Lunch at the Traditional Inn or similar

2:00pm Visit Patan; its Museum, Main Square and ancient temples, private Newari House,

Living Goddess and the Singing Bowl workshop

3:30pm Free time for individual exploration of this World Heritage City

4:30pm Gather and transfer to Thamel

5:00pm Arrive and walk around with your guide

6:00pm Depart for Kathmandu’s Main Avenue

6:30pm Drinks and dinner at Sam’s One Tree Café or similar

8:30pm Return to your hotel

Overnight at Dwarika’s Hotel or similar hotel

Day 3

From 7:00am Breakfast in the Dwarikas Courtyard

9:30am Proceed to visit Bhadgaon City (Bhaktapur) and later walk around its

Durbar Square to see the Palace of 55 windows and Nyatapola temple

1:00pm Lunch at the Chez Caroline restaurant or similar

3:00pm Return to the hotel

4:00pm Depart for Bodhnath Stupa

4:15pm Arrive and visit Bodhnath Stupa

5:15pm Visit the nearby Tibetan Monastery & Thangka Painting School, followed by time for individual exploration.

6:00pm Depart Bodhnath for Pashupatinath temple

6:15pm Visit Pashupatinath and witness the Aarti Ceremony (Evening Prayer

Ritual)

7:00pm Return to the hotel – dinner on own at your leisure

Overnight at Dwarika’s Hotel or similar hotel

Day 4 - timings below are for reference only and are subject to change based on flight details once

confirmed

From 7am Breakfast in the Toran restaurant.

10:30am Checkout and transfer to the International Airport for a flight to Mumbai - flight details TBA and subject to change

11:00am Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through immigration and security

1:25pm Flight departs Kathmandu – Lunch served onboard

3:55pm Arrive Mumbai, pass through immigration & customs and transfer to the pier

6:00pm Arrive at the pier and re-board the ship

Expected Weather:

Days are expected to be warm and sunny and evenings pleasant. The average daytime temperatures are around 30°C or 86°F whereas the minimum temperatures are about 25°C or 77°F.

What to Bring:

Casual clothing through the trip along with comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, hat, sunblock, swimwear and insect repellent. Early mornings and late evenings can sometimes get a bit chilly so it’s advisable to carry a light sweater or jacket for this possibility.

Currency:

Nepali Rupee: One U.S dollar is approximately Rupees 105 (subject to change). The hotel has an exchange facility

Electricity:

Nepal has a 230-volt, 50-hertz cycle power supply and 2-pin cylindrical sockets and plugs.

However, the rooms are fitted with necessary adaptors

Aircraft type (all subject to change):

Spice Jet, Boeing 737-800 – Economy

Nepal Airlines – Airbus 320/Boeing 757

Flightseeing tour – ATR, Yeti Airlines, 35 seater

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights in India (as per Airline regulations):

1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via Reservations at RSSC at least 1 month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations will result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which Regent Seven Seas Cruises nor our local ground operator be responsible for.

Luggage information:

On internal flights, check-in bags are not to weigh more than 15kg (33 lbs) and the carry-ons are max of 7 kgs (15 lbs).

Please pack items such as scissors and other sharp instruments in your check-in baggage. Liquids must be 100 ml or less in your carry on. Power banks and portable mobile chargers are not permitted in checked-in bags, they need to be kept in your carry on.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

It is essential to have a multiple entry valid Indian Visa for the trip obtained in advance.

*Nepal visa will be issued on arrival – all guests will be required to have 1 passport photo for this Visa

Accommodation:

Dwarikas’ Hotel

Battisputali Kathmandu, Nepal, P.O. Box: 459,

Phone: (977-1) 4479488

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If a similar hotel is required it will be of equal ratings and standards and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure then you will be staying at the hotel listed in this program.

Program includes:

•Accommodation for 3 nights at the Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu in a Heritage deluxe room

•All meals with lunches and dinners inclusive of house wines, beer, mineral water and sodas

•Transfers, sightseeing and road journeys in Nepal

•Mineral water and sodas in the vehicles

•Economy-class flights per the itinerary – direct flights not guaranteed

•Entrance fees and camera charges at monuments

•Mountain flightseeing

•Nepal visa

•The services of a local tour manager to accompany the group from Cochin until Mumbai

Program excludes:

•Valid tourist visa for India

•Gratuities to drivers, guides and tour manager

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service

•Meals or beverages not indicated in the itinerary

•Excess or overweight luggage

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces, which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.

Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 60 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 60 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.

Experience life in the beautiful state of Rajasthan in a multitude of fascinating ways and come away with a remarkably thorough understanding of its rural communities, rich history and royal families.

Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC), CPAP breathing machines or scooters should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour. The program is manageable for guests with mobility restrictions as long as they are travelling with someone to assist. Guests must be able to get on and off the tour coaches with little to no assistance. There will be various steps to negotiate at the hotels and sites visited (2-30 steps) and wheelchair ramps are not always available although most sites have them.

DAY 1 - Thursday, April 15, 2027

This afternoon, disembark in Cochin, complete immigration and customs formalities, board your vehicle and transfer to the airport for a flight to Mumbai.

On arrival, walk across to your nearby hotel where you will have dinner and an overnight.

DAY 2 - Friday, April 16, 2027

After breakfast, walk back to the airport for a flight to Jodhpur. Refreshments will be served aloft.

The desert-land of Rajasthan is wedged between two major river systems of the Indian subcontinent. Peopled by a most remarkable warrior race of valiant fighters and passionate builders who ruled from their numerous hill fortresses, this geographical region nurtured a most extraordinary culture – rich in legends of romance and chivalry, sacrifice and heroic deeds.

On arrival, take a pleasant drive of around two hours into the rural countryside to the principality of Nimaj. Stay at Raas Chhatra Sagar in custom-designed luxury tents surrounded by lush green fields of wheat, mustard, cotton, chilies, and vast grazing pastures. There’s a hundred-year-old reservoir strategically located over the Chhatra Sagar Lake.

Situated atop a dam, the estate offers incredible views of the Aravalli range, quite magical at sunrise and sunset. Migratory and local birds abound in and around the dam. The Camp offers numerous activities, including a nature walk for bird spotting or a village and farm visit; either of which you may choose to do.

After lunch and some leisure time, enjoy a farm visit followed by sundowners and dinner. The food here is exceptional – local, organic home produce is used as much as possible, with meals made using age-old family recipes, which have received some of the highest praise in Rajasthan.

DAY 3 - Saturday, April 17, 2027

At sunrise, tea, coffee and cookies are served in your individual tents. Walks at dawn are exhilarating and encouraged, with a profusion of birdlife, especially around the lake.

Soon after breakfast, proceed on a village excursion and experience the day-to-day life of rural India. Spend time exploring Nimaj’s quaint homes, the local school and farms that cultivate cotton, aniseed, cumin, henna, chillies, vegetables and a range of pulses.

Later this morning, drive back to Jodhpur, India’s royal 'blue city', which boasts one of the country's most spectacular fortress and palace complexes. It was from here that the popular baggy and tight horse-riding trousers `jodhpurs' took their name.

Stay at RAAS located in the old trade route quarter of the famous Walled City below the fort. It is based around an 18th century Haveli (Mansion) and echoes of Rajput architecture can be found throughout the building, from its intricately carved stone panels to its antique shrines to arches surviving from the stables.

When lit up in the evening the views of the fort are simply breath-taking.

After lunch, your afternoon activity begins with a visit to Jaswant Thada, the graceful cenotaph of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II (1873 – 95) and those of the other Maharajas of Jodhpur who died in this century.

The local bazaar around the Clock Tower, is a jumble of old and new generational textile and spice merchant precincts and the fun is in spotting stunning detailing, finding tiny courtyards, hidden temples, mosques and untouched mansions in the middle of the buzz. Lunch is at the Raas Boutique Resort located in heart of the old quarter.

Later, drive up to this Blue City’s awe inspiring Mehrangarh Fort, looming 400 feet above the skyline, rated by Time Magazine as Asia’s best fortress. Construction commenced in 1459, and today the fortification sprawls along the top of a steep escarpment with walls up to 36 meters high and 21 meters wide towering above the plains.

There’s a wonderful display of palanquins and the well-preserved Hall of Public Audience and Sheesh Mahal that trace the legendry opulence of the Jodhpur family. The ‘impregnable’ fort remained the royal residence until the Umaid Bhawan was completed in 1943. Its museum section boasts of a well-documented collection of their private art and miniature paintings.

Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight.

DAY 4 - Sunday, April 18, 2027

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before visiting the step-well “Toorji Ka Jhalra” which was built in Jodhpur in 1740 CE by the Maharaja’s consort in line with the age-old tradition of royal women commissioning waterworks. Today, the two 250-year-old stepwell is restored, and stands as a testament to Jodhpur’s past glory.?

On the return, an option is to further explore the colorful bazaars.

Later, transfer to the airport for a flight to Mumbai. A box lunch will be served at Jodhpur airport.

On arrival into Mumbai, transfer to the pier and re-board the ship.

Land Program Step by Step:

Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

DAY 1

1:30pm Disembark the ship in Cochin and after clearing immigration and custom formalities, transfer to the airport for a flight to Mumbai

3:30pm Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

5:20pm Flight from Cochin to Mumbai (flight details TBA and subject to change)

7:30pm Arrive Mumbai and walk across to the adjacent hotel

8:15pm Arrive, check-in and dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Taj Santacruz or similar hotel

DAY 2

From 6:00am Breakfast at your hotel

7:30am Walk across to the airport

7:40am Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

9:15am Flight from Mumbai to Jodhpur (flight details TBA and subject to change)

Refreshments served aloft

11:05am Arrive Jodhpur and drive to Nimaj

Light refreshments served on the vehicle

2:00pm Arrive Nimaj for a late lunch and check-In at the camp

3:30pm Explore the organic farms growing various types of vegetables and seasonal fruits

5:30pm Enjoy sundowners with hors d'oeuvres

From 7:00pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at Raas Chhatrasagar Tented Camp

DAY 3

6:00am After coffee or tea and biscuits, proceed on a bird watching expedition with the naturalist

From 7:00am Breakfast

8:00am Village excursion

10:00am Drive back to Jodhpur

12:30pm Arrive Jodhpur, lunch and check-in at your next hotel

2:30pm Tour of Mehrangarh Fort and the city including the bustling markets

6:30pm Return to the hotel

From 7:00pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the RAAS Jodhpur or similar hotel

DAY 4

From 7:00am Breakfast at your hotel

9:00am Visit the Toorji Ka Jhalra and the colorful bazaars

11:00am Return to the hotel and check-out

12:00pm Transfer to the airport

12:25pm Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

Box lunch served at the airport

2:20pm Flight from Jodhpur to Mumbai (flight details TBA and subject to change)

3:55pm Flight arrives Mumbai, collect luggage and transfer to the pier

5:30pm Arrive at the pier and reboard the ship

Expected Weather:

High daytime temperatures expected at Jodhpur and Nimaj are between 30 – 35 ºC OR 86 - 95ºF. The evenings get a bit cooler between 25-30ºC OR 77 - 86ºF .

What to Bring:

Casual wear for the day. Also, important is sun block, hat, sunglasses and comfortable walking shoes.

Local Currency:

Indian Rupees however US Dollars are widely accepted.

Electricity

220 – 240 volts. We suggest bringing a universal travel adaptor for electrical devices.

Proposed Aircraft type (subject to change):

Indigo Airlines – Airbus A 320 – Economy class flight

Air India – Airbus A319 – Economy class flight

Luggage information

For the flights on this program, guests are permitted to check in a maximum of 1 suitcase per person not to weigh more than 15kg (33 lbs). One carry on is permitted with a maximum weight of 7 kgs (15 lbs). Any luggage exceeding this amount will be subject to fees payable by the guest directly to the airline at the time of check-in.

Please Note:

•No power banks or electronic equipment are allowed in checked in baggage. To be carried in hand luggage

•In hand luggage : No sharp items i.e. scissor, nail cutter/file, razor and liquids more than 100 ml

•Satellite phones and E-cigarettes are banned in India and need to be left onboard the ship

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights in India (as per Airline regulations):

1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via Reservations at RSSC at least 1 month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations will result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which Regent Seven Seas Cruises nor our local ground operator be responsible for.

Guests brining a scooter will need to advise our Reservations team in advance. Specific details regarding the scooter will be required (as advised to us by the Indian airlines) including model, model number, a photo, maximum speed, ground clearance, turning radius, overall length & width of the base, seat type, weight, battery weight, battery requirements, maximum range per charge, battery charger information, battery type (detachable or not), maximum weight capacity, color.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

It is essential to obtain an Indian Visa in advance with passports valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date of arrival.

VERY IMPORTANT – The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.

Failure to have the required documents ahead of time will result in denial of travel and guests will have to pay for any expenses incurred in order to not proceed with the program.

The above information is subject to change and serves as a guide only. We would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our guests that it is the ultimate and sole responsibility of the guest to ensure they meet the entry requirements for each destination.

If traveling internationally, the countries you are flying to and/ or connecting through may have different document requirements and as such we encourage you to visit the government and airport websites of every country you will be traveling to throughout the journey to familiarize yourself with their requirements for your nationality.

Hotel addresses:

Mumbai

Taj Santacruz, Mumbai

Domestic Terminal, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai

Phone: (+91-22) 62115211

Nimaj

Raas Chhatrasagar

Khasra No. 1962/1, Chhatrasagar, Nimaj, Jaitaran, Pali, Rajasthan

Phone: (+91) 9257028200 / 8094715421

Jodhpur

RAAS Jodhpur

Tunwar ji ka Jhalra, Makrana Mohalla, Gulab Sagar, Jodhpur

Phone: (+91-291) 3505200 / 8094715421

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.

Program Includes:

•1 night at the Taj Santacruz, Mumbai or similar hotel in a Deluxe Room

•1 night at the Raas Chhatrasagar, Nimaj in a Luxury Tent

•1 night at the RAAS Jodhpur or similar hotel in a Garden Room

•All meals per the itinerary. Lunches and dinners include house wines, beer, bottled water and sodas

•Transfers and tours in air-conditioned vehicles

•English-speaking guide from arrival until departure Jodhpur

•Unlimited water on the vehicles

•Entrance and camera fees at all monuments

•In-house and outdoor activities arranged by Chhatrasagar

•Economy class flights Cochin per the itinerary (direct flights not guaranteed)

•Accompanying local Tour Manager throughout the program

Not Included:

•Any meals or beverages not listed in the itinerary

•Personal expenses

•Gratuities to drivers and guides

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, laundry and room service

•Excess or overweight luggage on flights

•Indian visa

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.

Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.

Explore the key attractions in and around Nepal’s capital of Kathmandu, many of them World Heritage Sites, including temples, royal cities and other architectural treasures.

Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour.

Due to the amount of walking, at times on uneven surfaces, this program is not recommended for anyone with walking difficulty or if a cane, walker or wheelchair are used.

Day 1 – March 30, 2024

After clearing immigration and Customs in Cochin, you will transfer to the airport and fly to Bangalore. A lunch box is served at the Banglaore airport while in transit.

Upon arriving, you will be assisted for a connecting flight to Kathmandu. Dinner is served on the flight.

In Kathmandu, you will be assisted with visa issuance and baggage collection.

NOTE: Please have on hand 1 passport sized photo for the Nepal Visa - Your tour manager will collect this from you in flight.

Home to eight of the world’s 10 tallest peaks, the tiny kingdom of Nepal is ringed by the Himalayas. It is a land of contrasts, harboring a wealth of Buddhist and Hindu art and architecture. Nepal’s colorful capital city Kathmandu reflects 2,000 years of peaceful co-existence and exudes a unique blend of Hinduism and Buddhism, which is distinctly Nepalese in character.

Nepal has eight World Heritage sites and has won two Heritage Awards, one for the city of Bhaktapur and the other for the Dwarika’s Hotel, where you will spend the evening.

Described as a “living, breathing museum, displaying Nepal’s best craftsmanship from the 13th century,” the hotel rooms and public areas at Dwarika’s Hotel reflect medieval architectural traditions. Every brick is handmade, every piece of wood original and centuries old.

Day 2 – March 31, 2024

Early in the morning, you will transfer to the airport for a flight-seeing excursion (weather permitting), soaring over glacier-clad, cloud-shrouded peaks and other landscapes around Mount Everest. Afterwards, you will return to the hotel for breakfast.

Following breakfast, you will have some time at leisure and before noon you will drive to the Traditional Inn in Patan for lunch. After lunch you will visit Patan, one of three royal cities in the valley. Commissioned by India’s great emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century, this World Heritage Site within four stupas is known as the City of Fine Arts.

The temples around the main square are impressive as is the Patan Museum, which is housed within a picturesque palace setting. In an international campaign by UNESCO for safeguarding monuments in Kathmandu Valley, the Austrian government joined hands with Nepal to restore and preserve Patan.

Newari architectural style blossomed in the form of temples, palaces, residences and squares between the 12th and 18th centuries, representing a timelessness in Nepalese architecture and its definitive characteristics, often guided by religious and socio-cultural norms.

You will enjoy a cup of tea in a 150-year-old restored Newari home. Its ground level is for daily activities and storage, while the floors above contain living spaces and bedrooms. The top floor serves as the family shrine and cooking and dining area.

Next, you will see Patan’s Living Goddess, who typically acknowledges greetings of devotees from the balcony of her temple residence. Known as kumaris, Nepal’s living goddesses live in seclusion and rarely speak in public.

After a private audience with the goddess it’s on to the Singing Bowl workshops. According to the oral traditions, singing bowls were brought to Nepal from India in the 8th century along with Buddha’s teachings. The Nepalese were expert bronze makers which allowed them to perfect these bowls which are commonly used as a tool for meditation. The beautiful rich tones the bowls produce are thought to help achieve a state of deep relaxation.

There’s time for individual exploration before departing for Thamel - Kathmandu’s hip street. Pulsating Thamel has become a world address for international trekkers, mountaineers and curio shoppers looking for a bargain.

Transfer to and enjoy drinks and dinner at a local favorite “Sam’s One Tree Café”. Following dinner the group returns to the hotel for the evening.

Day 3 – April 1, 2024

After breakfast, you will drive to the World Heritage city of Bhadgaon, also known as Bhaktapur. Founded in the 9th century, Bhaktapur, also known as the City of Devotees, is revered for its medieval art and architecture. As you meander around Durbar Square, you will see the 55 Window Palace and Nyatapola temple, considered to be the finest example of Pagoda-style architecture.

Following lunch at Kathmandu’s popular Chez Caroline Café, you will return to the hotel.

Later, you will visit the great Stupa at Bodhnath, one of the largest of its kind in the world. Constructed in the 14th century, the stupa is built on an octagonal base, inset with prayer wheels. Bodhnath is also a center of the Tibetan community in Nepal, where you will visit a monastery and interact with a senior monk. A visit is also made to the Thangka Painting Studio, which renowned artist Lok Chitrakar founded. The sacred art form of Thangkas is a visual interpretation of Buddhist and Hindu philosophies that date from before the 7th century C.E.

You will then visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pashupatinath, one of the holiest Hindu temples and a major pilgrimage site dedicated to the god Shiva. Situated within a natural setting on the bank of the sacred Bagmati River, the temple features a pagoda style, a gilded roof and a richly carved silver door.

After watching the Aarti prayer offering ceremony at the temple, you will return to the hotel to spend the evening. Dinner is included at your hotel.

Day 4 - April 2, 2024

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and the morning is at leisure.

Later, after a light lunch in the Courtyard, you will transfer to the airport for the flight from Kathmandu to Mumbai. Upon arrival in Mumbai, you will transfer to the pier and re-embark the ship.

NOTE: Pending confirmed flight details, this program has been planned so that World Cruise Guestss will be back in time for the planned event in Mumbai.

Overland Program Step by Step

The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations beyond our control. All program details, including timings and flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Destination Services will provide a final itinerary with up-to-date details once you board the ship. Please review the final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

Day 1 - timings below are for reference only and are subject to change based on flight details once

confirmed

9:30am Disembark and transfer to Cochin Airport

12:00pm Arrive at the Airport and complete check-in formalities, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

12:45pm Depart Cochin for Bangalore - light snack served on board

Flight details TBA and subject to change

1:50pm Arrive in Mumbai and proceed to the International terminal and complete check-in,

Immigration and other formalities for your flight to Kathmandu

A lunch box is served at the airport while in transit

5:50pm Depart for Kathmandu -dinner served on board

Flight details TBA and subject to change

9:10pm Arrive in Kathmandu. You are met at immigration, assistance with visa issuance

(1 passport photo is required) customs and transfer to your nearby hotel

10:15pm Arrive at your hotel and check in

Overnight at Dwarika’s Hotel or similar hotel

Day 2

5:30am Tea and coffee are served in the lobby before transferring to the airport

6:00am Transfer to the domestic terminal

6:15am Arrive, receive boarding passes and proceed to security before boarding the aircraft

6:45am Depart on an hour’s flightseeing (weather permitting) to the Everest

Region, featuring Mt. Everest and other legendry Himalayan peaks

7:45am Return to Kathmandu Airport and transfer back to your hotel

8:15am Breakfast in the Toran Restaurant

11:30am Transfer to Patan

12:15pm Lunch at the Traditional Inn or similar

1:30pm Visit Patan; its Museum, Main Square and ancient temples, private Newari House,Living Goddess and the Singing Bowl workshop

3:30pm Free time for individual exploration of this World Heritage City

4:00pm Gather and transfer to Thamel

4:30pm Arrive and walk around with your guide

5:30pm Depart for Kathmandu’s Main Avenue

5:45pm Drinks and dinner at Sam’s One Tree Café or similar

7:30pm Return to your hotel

Overnight at Dwarika’s Hotel or similar hotel

Day 3

From 7:00am Breakfast in the Dwarikas Courtyard

9:30am Proceed to visit Bhadgaon City (Bhaktapur) and later walk around its

Durbar Square to see the Palace of 55 windows and Nyatapola temple

1:00pm Lunch at the Chez Caroline restaurant or similar

3:00pm Return to the hotel

4:00pm Depart for Bodhnath Stupa

4:15pm Arrive and visit Bodhnath Stupa

5:15pm Visit the nearby Tibetan Monastery & Thangka Painting School, followed by time for individual exploration.

6:00pm Depart Bodhnath for Pashupatinath temple

6:15pm Visit Pashupatinath and witness the Aarti Ceremony (Evening Prayer

Ritual)

7:00pm Return to the hotel – dinner included

Overnight at Dwarika’s Hotel or similar hotel

Day 4 - timings below are for reference only and are subject to change based on flight details once

confirmed

From 7am Breakfast in the Toran restaurant.

10:30am Checkout and transfer to the International Airport for a flight to Mumbai - flight details TBA and subject to change

11:00am Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through immigration and security

1:25pm Flight departs Kathmandu – Lunch served onboard

3:55pm Arrive Mumbai, pass through immigration & customs and transfer to the pier

6:00pm Arrive at the pier and re-board the ship

Expected Weather:

Days are expected to be warm and sunny and evenings pleasant. The average daytime temperatures are around 25°C or 77°F whereas the minimum temperatures are about 10°C or 50°F. However, the early mornings and evenings can sometimes get a bit chilly so it’s best to carry a light sweater or jacket.

What to Bring:

Casual clothing through the trip along with comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, hat, sunblock, swimwear and insect repellent. Early mornings and late evenings can sometimes get a bit chilly so it’s advisable to carry a light sweater or jacket for this possibility.

Currency:

Nepali Rupee: One U.S dollar is approximately Rupees 105 (subject to change). The hotel has an exchange facility

Electricity:

Nepal has a 230-volt, 50-hertz cycle power supply and 2-pin cylindrical sockets and plugs.

However, the rooms are fitted with necessary adaptors

Aircraft type (all subject to change):

Indigo Airlines – Airbus A 320

Nepal Airlines – Airbus 320/Boeing 757 - Economy

Flightseeing tour – ATR, Yeti Airlines, 35 seats

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights in India (as per Airline regulations):

1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via Reservations at RSSC at least 1 month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations will result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which Regent Seven Seas Cruises nor our local ground operator be responsible for.

Luggage information:

On internal flights, check-in bags are not to weigh more than 15kg (33 lbs) and the carry-ons are max of 7 kgs (15 lbs).

Please pack items such as scissors and other sharp instruments in your check-in baggage. Liquids must be 100 ml or less in your carry on. Power banks and portable mobile chargers are not permitted in checked-in bags, they need to be kept in your carry on.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

It is essential to have a multiple entry valid Indian Visa for the trip obtained in advance.

*Nepal visa will be issued on arrival – all guests will be required to have 1 passport photo for this Visa

Accommodation:

Dwarikas’ Hotel

Battisputali Kathmandu, Nepal, P.O. Box: 459,

Phone: (977-1) 4479488

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If a similar hotel is required it will be of equal ratings and standards and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure then you will be staying at the hotel listed in this program.

Program includes:

•Accommodation for 3 nights at the Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu in a Heritage deluxe room

•All meals with lunches and dinners inclusive of house wines, beer, mineral water and sodas

•Transfers, sightseeing and road journeys in Nepal

•Mineral water and sodas in the vehicles

•Economy-class flights per the itinerary – direct flights not guaranteed

•Entrance fees and camera charges at monuments

•Mountain flightseeing

•Nepal visa

•The services of a local tour manager to accompany the group from Cochin until Mumbai

Program excludes:

•Valid tourist visa for India

•Gratuities to drivers, guides and tour manager

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service

•Meals or beverages not indicated in the itinerary

•Excess or overweight luggage

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces, which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.

Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 60 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 60 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.

Explore two icons – the Sikh’s sacred Golden Temple and the legendary Taj Mahal – during the day and evening, when the experiences will be vastly different. A choice of optional adventures adds intrigue.

Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC), CPAP breathing machines or scooters should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour. The program is manageable for guests with mobility restrictions as long as they are travelling with someone to assist. Guests must be able to get on and off the tour coaches with little to no assistance. There will be various steps to negotiate at the hotels and sites visited (2-30 steps) and wheelchair ramps are not always available although most sites have them. Only the base of the Taj Mahal mausoleum is accessible to wheelchairs.

DAY 1 - April 15, 2027

Disembark the ship in Cochin, complete immigration and customs formalities, meet your guide and transfer to the airport for a flight to Amritsar via Delhi. A boxed lunch will be served at the Cochin airport and light refreshments will be served during the flight.

Amritsar, which means “Pool of the Nectar of Immortality” (named after the sacred pool in the Golden Temple) was founded in 1577 on a site donated by the great Mughal Emperor Akbar. It became an important junction on the Old Silk Trading Route, bringing with it a presence of different peoples; Yarkandis, Turkomans, Kashmiris, Tibetans and Iranians. These days it is the second largest town in India’s northern State of Punjab.

Arriving in Amritsar, collect your luggage and transfer to your centrally located hotel for dinner and overnight.

Dinner and overnight.

DAY 2 - April 16, 2027

After breakfast, depart for a visit to the Golden Temple.

The name Golden Temple comes from the gold-coloured lining of the building from its copper cupolas down to the marble walls. The temple, always celebrated for its riches, has been plundered several times over the centuries. Despite the splendour, an atmosphere of deep religiousness envelops the place.

Called Darbar Sahib which means Court of the Lord, the temple best exemplifies Indo-Moslem art. Begun in 1574, it stands in the centre of an enormous pool circled by steps and wings of buildings. Delicate inlay work of ivory and mirror and elegantly moulded stucco come together to create an extravagant and opulent interior.

An essential part of the temple is the ‘Langar’ or public kitchen, where free food is prepared and served to at least fifty thousand worshippers every day; an expression of the Sikh belief that “nothing is more important than Seva or service in the realisation of brotherhood.

Mounds of flour are kneaded by muscular young men, while a group of women roll the dough into balls, flattened and tossed into a giant griddle, almost ten feet in diameter to make rotis or bread which then get transported in conveyor belts. All the food and fuel in the Langar comes from offerings that are donated by pilgrims and wealthy benefactors. Each devotee contributes his or her share of the work. The Sikh religion has always emphasized the importance of community service, and within the temple precincts there is an atmosphere of collective harmony.

After this enlightening visit, return to your hotel for lunch.

The afternoon is at leisure with options for spa treatments at the hotel (additional cost). However, you can also decide with your guide to explore the marketplace.

After an early dinner, revisit the Golden Temple to witness the daily ‘Night Ritual” when the `Holy Book’ is reverently closed and put to bed after final evening prayers. It is carried in a silver palanquin to an adjacent building known as Akal Takht, seat of the ‘Sikh’ religious order. The floors of the temple are then washed with milk and water before its doors are shut. At dawn, the Holy Book is carried back to the Golden Temple.

Return to your hotel where the remainder of the evening is at your leisure.

DAY 3 - April 17, 2027

A continental breakfast is served before transferring to the airport for a flight to Delhi. Light refreshments will be served during the flight.

On arrival, proceed on a scenic drive to Agra via the new Yamuna Expressway. Sit back, relax and take in the vistas of India’s vast rural farming countryside along the way. A rest stop will be made along the way and a packed breakfast will be served during the drive.

Agra, the city of Taj Mahal was one of the grand cities of South Asia. With the arrival of the Mughals in 1526 led by Babur, Agra entered a completely new era during the reign of emperors Akbar, Jehangir and Shah Jahan. Akbar made it a great center for learning, art, commerce and culture. Its cosmopolitan bazaars and its strategic location on the river Jamuna, was altogether a worthier setting for the focus of an empire.

Arriving in Agra, check in and enjoy lunch and some time at leisure at your hotel.

This evening, visit the Taj Mahal - the ivory gate which all dreams pass. A lacy white grandeur, perhaps the most perfect architectural monument accomplished. Amazingly graceful from any angle, it is the close-up detail which is really astounding. At dusk the monument appears to change its hue, tinted by the glow of the setting sun.

Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight.

DAY 4 - April 18, 2027

Coffee, tea, juices and bread rolls served in the lobby prior to departing for the Taj Mahal at sunrise, as the early rays of the sun cast upon the pearl-white tomb.

Return to your hotel for breakfast which is followed by the morning and afternoon at leisure, or you may opt to participate in one of the below included options:

Morning options :

•See the World Heritage Agra Fort, credited to Emperor Akbar, India’s great visionary. His sons and theirs added to this imposing structure situated by the banks of the Yamuna River. The astonishing palaces, mosques and audience halls contained within its massive walls of red sandstone became once more a monumental mission of the Mughal Empire embellished by the artistic fusion of Islamic and Hindu traditions.

•Visit the Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah in the old city, the first Mughal structure pioneering the extensive use

of `pietra dura’, the inlay work of marble, so characteristic of the Taj Mahal. This mausoleum is small and squat when compared to the Taj, but the more human scale has its own attraction, and the skillfully patterned surface of the tomb is exquisite.

Return to the hotel for lunch.

Afternoon options:

•Visit the Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah in the old city as described above

•There are options to browse shops such as Kohinoor, jewelers to the mughal court, featured in National Geographic. Old emerald necklaces, enamel jewelry and embroidery form part of their private collection. The Marble Inlay factories steeped in this decorative art culture are also a specialty of Agra.

•At the hotel, Agra’s leading astrologer will be available for consultation. Appointments for an analysis of your personal horoscope can be made at the Regent Hospitality desk.

Prior to dinner enjoy a short cultural show featuring the classical dance form of Kathak. This royal courtroom dance arose from the fusion of Hindu and Muslim cultures during the Mughal era. It is characterized by rhythmic footwork, spectacular spins, mime and gestures that are a dramatic representation of themes from Persian poetry synthesized with Hindu mythology.

After dinner the remainder of the evening is at your leisure.

DAY 5 - April 19, 2027

After an early breakfast, drive back to Delhi for a flight to Mumbai. A rest stop will be made along the way. Light

refreshments will be served on the bus and lunch will be served on the flight.

Upon arrival in Mumbai, transfer to the pier and re-board the ship.

Land Program Step by Step:

Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

DAY 1

10:00am Disembark in Cochin, clear immigration and custom formalities, transfer to the airport

12:00pm Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

Box lunch served at Cochin airport

2:00pm Flight from Cochin to Amritsar via Delhi (flight details TBA and subject to change) Light refreshments served during the flight

5:20pm Arrive in Delhi and connect to a flight to Amritsar

8:20pm Flight from Delhi to Amritsar (flight details TBA and subject to change) Light refreshments served during the flight

9:25pm Arrive in Amritsar and transfer to your hotel

10:30pm Arrive at the hotel, dinner and check-in

Overnight at the Taj Amritsar or similar hotel

DAY 2

From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Visit the Golden Temple followed the Langar (Community Kitchen)

12:30pm Return to your hotel for lunch and time at leisure

3:30pm The guide and vehicle are available to explore the colorful markets

7:00pm Early dinner at the hotel

8:30pm Return to the Golden Temple and witness the Night Ceremony

TBA Return to your hotel

Overnight at the Taj Amritsar or similar hotel

DAY 3

5:00am Continental breakfast is served

5:30am Transfer to the airport for a flight to Delhi

6:00am Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

7:35am Flight from Amritsar to Delhi (flight details TBA and subject to change) Light refreshments are served during the flight

8:45am Arrive in Delhi and drive to Agra, packed breakfast served along the way

1:30pm Arrive in Agra for lunch, check-in and time at leisure

4:30pm Visit Taj Mahal for sunset

From 7:00pm Dinner at your hotel

Overnight at the Courtyard by Marriott or similar hotel

DAY 4

5:45am Continental breakfast is served

6:30am Sunrise visit of the Taj Mahal

From 7:00am Breakfast is served at the hotel

Morning options:

9:00-12:30 pm (a) Tour of Agra Fort

9:00-12:30 pm (b) Tour of Itmad-Ud-Daulah.

12:30 – 3:00 pm Lunch at the hotel and time at leisure

Afternoon options:

3:00-5:30 pm (a) Tour of Itmad-Ud-Daulah.

3:00-5:30pm (b) Shopping shuttle on the hour to the marble inlay factory and local markets.

3:00-5:30pm (c) Appointments with Agra’s famous astrologer

7:00pm Classical Kathak dance performance at the hotel

From 7:30pm Dinner at your hotel

Overnight at the Courtyard by Marriott or similar hotel

DAY 5

From 5:00am Breakfast

6:30am Drive back to the Delhi airport for a flight to Mumbai

Light refreshments served on the flight

10:30am Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

12:30pm Flight from Delhi to Mumbai (flight details TBA and subject to change)

Lunch served during the flight

2:40pm Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to the pier

5:00pm Arrive and re-board the ship

Expected Weather:

Days are sunny and hot with temperatures between 30° to 35°C (86° to 95°F). The evenings are a bit cooler between 25° to 30°C (77° to 86°F).

What to Bring:

Casual cotton wear for the day. Also, bring sun block, hats, sunglasses and comfortable walking shoes. At the temples in Amritsar footwear is to be removed, socks will be provided.

As the Taj Mahal is a mausoleum, certain religious customs must be observed. As a token of respect, it is customary to remove your footwear before entering. Ladies should avoid wearing tank tops or any top with spaghetti straps, as well as short shorts. Knee-length shorts are acceptable for men and women.

Currency:

Indian Rupees

US Dollars are widely accepted

Electricity:

The electric voltage in India is 220 – 240 volts. We recommend bringing your own universal travel adapter for electric devices

Proposed Aircraft type (subject to change):

Air India – Airbus A319 – All Economy seats

IndiGo : Airbus 320 – All Economy seats

Luggage information

For the flights on this program, guests are permitted to check in a maximum of 1 suitcase per person not to weigh more than 15kg (33 lbs). One carry on is permitted with a maximum weight of 7 kgs (15 lbs). Any luggage exceeding this amount will be subject to fees payable by the guest directly to the airline at the time of check-in.

Note:

Power banks and electronic equipment must be carried in hand luggage, not permitted in checked luggage

No sharp items are permitted in hand luggage i.e. scissor, nail cutter/file, razors

Liquids more than 100 ml are not permitted in hand luggage

Satellite phones and E-cigarettes are banned in India and need to be left on board the ship

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights in India (as per Airline regulations):

1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via Reservations at RSSC at least 1 month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations will result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which Regent Seven Seas Cruises nor our local ground operator be responsible for.

Guests brining a scooter will need to advise our Reservations team in advance. Specific details regarding the scooter will be required (as advised to us by the Indian airlines) including model, model number, a photo, maximum speed, ground clearance, turning radius, overall length & width of the base, seat type, weight, battery weight, battery requirements, maximum range per charge, battery charger information, battery type (detachable or not), maximum weight capacity, color.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

It is essential to have a valid Indian Visa in advance of this trip.

Guests must bring their passport with them

VERY IMPORTANT – The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.

Failure to have the required documents ahead of time will result in denial of travel and guests will have to pay for any expenses incurred in order to not proceed with the program.

The above information is subject to change and serves as a guide only. We would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our guests that it is the ultimate and sole responsibility of the guest to ensure they meet the entry requirements for each destination.

If traveling internationally, the countries you are flying to and/ or connecting through may have different document requirements and as such we encourage you to visit the government and airport websites of every country you will be traveling to throughout the journey to familiarize yourself with their requirements for your nationality.

Accommodations:

Taj Swarna

Outer Circular Road, Opp. Basant Avenue, Amritsar, Punjab – 143001

Phone : (+91-183) 6658000

Courtyard Agra

Taj Nagri, Phase II, Fatehabad Road, Agra – 282001

Phone: (+91-562) 2457777

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.

Program Includes:

•2 nights at the Taj Swarna including breakfast – Deluxe room

•2 nights at the Courtyard Agra including breakfasts – Deluxe room

•Transfers, sightseeing and road journeys using air-conditioned deluxe coaches

•Unlimited mineral water will be provided in the bus

•Lunches and dinners inclusive of house wines, beer, mineral water, sodas

•Economy class flights per the itinerary - Direct flights are not guaranteed

•Entrance fees and camera and video charges

•Kathak dance performance

•Local fortuneteller

•The services of an accompanying Tour Manager throughout the entire program

Not Included:

•Any meals or beverages not listed in the itinerary

•Personal expenses

•Gratuities to drivers and guides

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, laundry and room service

•Excess or overweight luggage

•Indian visa

•Optional hotel services (I.e. Spa)

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.

Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.

One of the best-known structures in the world, Agra’s fabled Taj Mahal will awe your senses and forever capture your heart. Considered to be the finest example of Mughal architecture, the Taj Mahal is a glistening mass of white marble and semi-precious stones set amid impeccably landscaped grounds. This program includes the opportunity to visit three UNESCO world heritage sites: the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri; all of which are legacies from Mughal times.

Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour.

DAY 1 – April 17, 2024

After disembarkation from the ship in Cochin, you will proceed to the airport for your flight to Delhi.

Upon arrival at the Cochin airport, you will receive boarding passes and proceed through security. Your bags will be transported to the airport in a separate truck for an advance check-in. The flight is scheduled to make a stop in Pune however you will not get off the plane. Lunch will be served on your flight.

On arrival in Delhi, transfer to your hotel for check-in.

Dinner is included at the hotel.

DAY 2 – April 18, 2024

After breakfast, check out and drive to Agra via the new Yamuna Expressway with vistas of India’s vast rural farming countryside.

Agra, the city of Taj Mahal was one of the grand cities of South Asia. With the arrival of the Mughals in 1526 led by Babur, Agra entered a completely new era during the reign of emperors Akbar, Jehangir and Shah Jahan. Akbar made it a great center for learning, art, commerce and culture. Its cosmopolitan bazaars and its strategic location on the river Jamuna, was altogether a worthier setting for the focus of an empire.

Upon arrival in Agra check-in to your hotel.

After lunch visit the Taj Mahal for sunset. With its incredible lacy white grandeur, it is perhaps the most perfect architectural monument in the world. In memory of his wife, the great Mughal emperor Shah Jehan planned this most extravagant and incomparable monument built for love. Although amazingly graceful from any angle, it is the close-up detail, which is really astounding. At sunset, the monument appears to change its hue, tinted by the glow of the setting sun.

Note: Guests are able to walk around the grounds and go into the Mausoleum itself if you wish.

Back at your hotel, and after some time to freshen up, enjoy the classical dance form of Kathak in the ballroom. A buffet dinner follows the dance performance.

Day 3 – April 19, 2024

The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays however, enjoy tea, coffee, juices and rolls in the lobby before departing for the Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden) where you will be able to view the Taj Mahal at sunrise.

After commissioning the Taj Mahal, the Emperor Shah Jehan was looking for a spot to enjoy the monument or tomb in its entirety. So, he went across the river and built an elaborate garden complemented by fountains and amphitheaters. He called it the Mehtab Bagh or the “Moonlight Garden” as it offered him stunning views of the Taj Mahal with reflections across the river on full moon nights.

Return to your hotel for breakfast.

Morning options following breakfast:

•Drive an hour into the Indian countryside to visit Fatehpur Sikri, the red sandstone former capital of the Mughal empire. The city lived between A.D. 1571 up to 1585 and then became a ghost town, abandoned, possibly due to complexities with the water systems.

•Visit the Agra Fort, a World Heritage Site credited to Emperor Akbar, India’s great visionary. His sons and theirs added to this imposing structure situated by the banks of the Yamuna River. The astonishing palaces, mosques and audience halls contained within its massive walls of red sandstone became once more a monumental mission of the Mughal Empire embellished by the artistic fusion of Islamic and Hindu tradition

Afternoon Options following lunch:

•Visit the Agra Fort as described above

•Visit the Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah in the old city, the first Mughal structure pioneering the extensive use

of `pietra dura’, the inlay work of marble, so characteristic of the Taj Mahal. This mausoleum is small and squat when compared to the Taj, but the more human scale has its own attraction, and the skillfully patterned surface of the tomb is exquisite.

•At the hotel, Agra’s leading astrologer will be available for consultation. Appointments for an analysis of your personal horoscope can be made at the Regent Seven Seas Hospitality desk

•Take a look at some of Agra’s famous shopping. Kohinoor, erstwhile jewelers to the Mughal court, featured in National Geographic. Old emerald necklaces, enamel, jewelry, silver, pocket watches in Gold and silver, textiles and embroidery form part of their private collection. The Marble Inlay factories steeped in this decorative art culture are also a specialty of Agra.

Return to your hotel where dinner will be served

Day 4 – April 20, 2024

Early this morning, return to Delhi for a flight to Mumbai. Tea, coffee, juices and rolls will be served in the lobby prior to departure.

At the airport, collect boarding passes and proceed through security and then onto the plane for the flight to Mumbai. A packed lunch is served at the airport and snacks are served on the flight.

Upon arrival in Mumbai, transfer to the pier to rejoin your ship.

A separate van will be provided for transportation of your luggage to the pier

Land Program Step by Step:

Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

Day 1

10:30am After immigrations and custom formalities, disembark and transfer to Cochin airport

12:00pm Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security. Lunch box is served at Cochin airport

1:50pm Flight to Delhi via Pune (flight details TBA and subject to change)

6:15pm Arrive Delhi and transfer to your hotel

7:00pm Arrive at the hotel and check-in

From 7:30pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the JW Marriott Delhi or similar hotel

Day 2

7:00am Breakfast at your hotel

8:30am Depart on the drive to Agra

12:30pm Arrive in Agra and check-in to your hotel

From 1pm Lunch and leisure time

4:00pm Visit the Taj Mahal for a sunset experience

7:00pm Classical Kathak dance performance

From 7:30pm Dinner at your hotel

Overnight at ITC Mughal or similar hotel

Day 3

5:00am Tea, coffee, juices and rolls served in the lobby

5:30am Depart for the Mehtab Bagh to view the Taj Mahal at sunrise

5:45am Arrive and enjoy the views

From 7:00am Breakfast at your hotel

Morning options

1. 8:30am – 12:30pm Visit Fatehpur Sikri

2. 9:00 am-11:30am Visit Agra Fort

12:00 – 2:00pm Lunch at the hotel

Afternoon options

1. 2:30pm – 5:30pm Visit Agra Fort.

2. 2:30 pm-5:30 pm Visit Itmad-Ud-Daulah.

3. 2:30pm – 5:30pm Shuttles to local market and inlay factories

4. 2:30 pm–5:30pm Appointment with the local astrologer at the hotel

From 7:30pm Dinner at your hotel

Overnight at The ITC Mughal or similar hotel

Day 4

5:30am Breakfast at the hotel

7:00am Drive back to Delhi

11:00am Arrive at the Delhi airport and check in

Packed lunch is served at the airport

12:50pm Flight to Mumbai (flight details TBA and subject to change)

Snacks are served aloft

3:00pm Arrive Mumbai and transfer to the pier

5:00pm Arrive at the pier and reboard the ship

Expected Weather:

Days are sunny and comfortable with temperatures between 30 to 35°C (86 to 95°F).

The evenings will be cooler.

What to Bring:

Casual wear for the day. Also, important is sun block, hat, sunglasses and comfortable walking shoes. As the Taj Mahal is also a mausoleum there are certain religious customs to be observed. As a token of respect, it is customary to remove your footwear before entering. Avoid tops with spaghetti straps and short shorts for ladies – knee length shorts are okay for ladies and gents.

Currency:

Indian Rupees. US Dollars are widely accepted

Electricity:

220 – 240 volts. Hotel rooms are equipped with converters however we recommend you bring your own travel adaptors for electric devices as a backup.

Luggage:

Light luggage would be most suited for this trip. A maximum of 1 suitcase is permitted per person and one carry-on. Suitcases are not to weigh more than 15 kg (33 lbs) per airline regulations. Any luggage exceeding this amount will be subject to fees payable by the guest directly to the airline at the time of check-in.

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights in India (as per Airline regulations):

1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via Reservations at RSSC at least 1 month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations will result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which Regent Seven Seas Cruises nor our local ground operator be responsible for.

Guests brining a scooter will need to advise our Reservations team in advance. Specific details regarding the scooter will be required (as advised to us by the Indian airlines) including model, model number, a photo, maximum speed, ground clearance, turning radius, overall length & width of the base, seat type, weight, battery weight, battery requirements, maximum range per charge, battery charger information, battery type (detachable or not), maximum weight capacity, color.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

It is essential to have a valid Indian Visa in advance of this trip.

Guests must bring their passport with them

VERY IMPORTANT – The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.

Failure to have the required documents ahead of time will result in denial of travel and guests will have to pay for any expenses incurred in order to not proceed with the program.

Accommodation:

JW Marriott Hotel New Delhi Aerocity

Asset Area 4 – Hospitality District, Delhi Aerocity, New Delhi – 110037

Phone: (+91 11) 4521 2121

Agra:

ITC Mughal

Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh - 282001

Phone: +91 562 4021700

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.

Program Includes:

•1 night at the JW Marriott in Delhi or similar hotel – Deluxe room

•2 nights at the ITC Mughal - Mughal Chamber Room

•Transfers, sightseeing and road journeys using air-conditioned deluxe coaches

•Unlimited mineral water will be provided in the bus

•All meals inclusive of house wines, beer, mineral water, sodas and current taxes

•Economy class flights from Cochin to Delhi via Pune and from Delhi to Mumbai - Direct flights are not guaranteed

•Entrance fees and camera and video charges at the Taj Mahal monument

•Tours per the itinerary

•Kathak dance performance

•Local fortuneteller

•The services of an accompanying Tour Manager from Cochin until Mumbai

Not Included:

•Any meals or beverages not listed in the itinerary

•Personal expenses

•Gratuities to drivers and guides

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, laundry and room service

•Visa fees

•Excess or overweight luggage fees on flights

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.

Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 60 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 60 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.

One of the best-known structures in the world, Agra’s fabled Taj Mahal will awe your senses and forever capture your heart. Considered to be the finest example of Mughal architecture, the Taj Mahal is a glistening mass of white marble and semi-precious stones set amid impeccably landscaped grounds.

Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour.

DAY 1 – April 7th, 2020

After lunch onboard, disembark the ship and depart for a sightseeing tour of Fort Cochin en route to the airport.

Upon arrival at the Cochin airport, you will receive boarding passes and proceed through security. Your bags will be transported directly to the airport in a separate truck for an advance check-in.

Dinner is served on the flight.

Upon arrival in Delhi, transfer to The Oberoi Gurgaon Hotel or similar and check-in. Your luggage will be transported to the hotel in a separate truck.

Before proceeding to your room, heavy snacks with beverages will be provided.

Overnight in Delhi

DAY 2 – April 8th, 2020

After breakfast at the hotel, checkout and drive to Agra via the new Yamuna Expressway with vistas of India’s vast rural farming countryside along the way.

Agra, the city of Taj Mahal, was one of the grand cities of South Asia. With the arrival of the Mughals in 1526 led by Babur, Agra entered a completely new era during the reign of emperors Akbar, Jehangir and Shah Jahan. Akbar made it a great center for learning, art, commerce and culture.

Upon arrival in Agra, check-in to the ITC Mughal Hotel or similar. A buffet lunch is served at the hotel along with wine, beer, soft drinks and mineral water.

Following some leisure time, proceed to the famed Taj Mahal for sunset.

The Taj Mahal, with its incredible lacy white grandeur, is perhaps the most perfect architectural monument in the world. In memory of his wife, the great Mughal emperor Shah Jehan planned this most extravagant and incomparable monument built for love. Amazingly graceful from any angle, it is the close up detail, which is really astounding. At sunset the monument appears to change its hue, tinted by the glow of the setting sun.

Back at the hotel, enjoy the classical dance form of Kathak in the ballroom, along with wine, beer and soft drinks. A buffet dinner follows the dance performance.

This Mughal Court dance arose from the fusion of Hindu and Muslim cultures during the Mughal era, characterized by rhythmic footwork, spectacular spins, mime and gestures that are a dramatic representation of themes from Persian poetry synthesized with Hindu mythology.

Overnight in Agra.

DAY 3 – April 9th, 2020

Discover the monumental Taj Mahal at dawn. Tea, Coffee, juices and rolls are served in the lobby, prior to our departure. Following your visit, return to the hotel for a full breakfast.

Morning options – you will decide when you are at the hotel

a)Drive into the Indian countryside to visit Fatehpur Sikri - the red sandstone former capital of the Mughal Empire and World Heritage Site.

b)Visit the Agra Fort, another World Heritage Site credited to Emperor Akbar, India’s great visionary. His sons and theirs added to this imposing structure situated by the banks of the Yamuna River. The astonishing palaces, mosques and audience halls contained within its massive walls of red sandstone became once more a monumental mission of the Mughal Empire embellished by the artistic fusion of Islamic and Hindu tradition.

Return to the hotel.

Buffet lunch is served at the hotel along with wine, beer, soft drinks and mineral water.

Afternoon options – you will decide when you are at the hotel

a)Visit the Agra Fort - World Heritage Site

b)Visit the Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah in the old city, the first Mughal structure pioneering the extensive use of `pietra dura’, the inlay work of marble, so characteristic of the Taj Mahal. This mausoleum is small and squat when compared to the Taj, but the more human scale has its own attraction, and the skillfully patterned surface of the tomb is exquisite.

c)Take a look at some of Agra’s famous shopping …. Kohinoor, erstwhile jewelers to the Mughal court, featured in National Geographic. Old emerald necklaces, enamel, jewelry, silver, pocket watches in Gold and silver, textiles and embroidery form part of their private collection. The Marble Inlay factories steeped in this decorative art culture are also a specialty of Agra.

d)Hotel Activity - At the hotel, Agra’s leading astrologer will be available for consultation. Appointments for an analysis of your personal horoscope can be made at the Regent Cruises hospitality desk

Back at the hotel dinner is served with wine, beer, soft drinks and mineral water.

Overnight in Agra.

DAY 4 – April 10th, 2020

After breakfast, drive to the Delhi airport and check in for your flight to Mumbai. A packed lunch from the hotel is provided at the airport.

Upon arrival in Mumbai, you will be met and transferred to the pier to rejoin the ship. Once again, a separate van is provided for transportation of the baggage to the pier.

Land Program Step by Step:

Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

DAY 1 - timings subject to change based on actual flight details

10:00am Ship is scheduled to dock in Cochin. Immigration and customs formalities

Eat a good lunch onboard before departing

1:00pm Disembark the ship

1:15pm Drive to Fort Cochin

1:30pm Tour Fort Cochin

4:00pm Depart for Cochin airport

5:30pm Arrive at the airport, receive boarding cards and proceed through security

6:30pm Flight from Cochin to Delhi (Flight details TBA and subject to change)

Dinner served aloft

9:30pm Arrive in Delhi and transfer to your hotel

10:00pm Arrive at the hotel and check-in. Snacks and beverages will be available before retiring

Overnight at the Oberoi Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 2

From 7am Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Check-out and drive to Agra via the Yamuna Expressway

1:00pm Arrive in Agra and check-in to your hotel followed by a buffet lunch

4:00pm Visit the Taj Mahal for sunset

7:00pm Classical `Kathak’ dance performance

From 7:30pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the ITC Mughal hotel in Agra or similar hotel

DAY 3

5:45am Tea/coffee/juices and rolls served in the lobby.

6:00am Visit the Taj Mahal, at dawn

8:00am Return to the hotel.

From 8:30am Breakfast at the hotel

Morning options :

9:30am-12:30pm a) Proceed to visit Fatehpur Sikri

9:30am-12:00pm b) Visit the Agra Fort

12:30 – 2:00pm Buffet lunch at the Hotel

Afternoon options :

2:00 – 4:30pm a) Visit the Agra Fort

2:00 – 4:30pm b) Visit the Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah in the Old City

2:00 – 4:30pm c) Shopping shuttle to the Marble inlay factory and the local markets.

2:00 – 4:30pm d) Hotel activity – Agra’s leading astrologer will be available for consultation.

7:30pm onwards Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the ITC Mughal hotel in Agra or similar hotel

DAY 4 - timings subject to change based on actual flight details

From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Check-out and drive back to Delhi

1:30pm Arrive at Delhi airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security.

A packed lunch from the hotel is provided at the airport

3:10pm Depart Delhi for Mumbai (flight details TBA and subject to change)

5:15pm Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to the pier

7:30pm Arrive at the pier and rejoin the ship

Expected Weather:

Days are sunny and comfortable with temperatures between 23 to 25°C (73 to 77°F). The evenings get cooler between 13 to 15°C (55 to 59°F) and temperatures drop as the night progresses.

What to Bring:

Casual dress is suited for this program. Please bring along a sweater or jacket for the evenings and early morning visit to the Taj. Also, important is sun block, hat, shades and comfortable walking shoes. As the Taj Mahal is also a mausoleum there are certain religious customs to be observed. As a token of respect, it is customary to remove your footwear before entering. Avoid spaghetti straps or tank tops and short shorts for ladies – knee length shorts are okay for ladies and gents.

Currency:

US Dollars are widely accepted

Electricity:

220 – 240 volts

Hotel rooms are equipped with converters but we always recommend guests bring their own just in case

Luggage:

Light luggage would be most suited for this trip. Maximum 1 suitcase per person (no more than 15 kg/33 lbs) and one carry-on (no more than 7 kgs/15 lbs)

Airline & type of aircraft (subject to change) :

Typically Airbus A320 or Boeing 739 All economy class seats

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights in India (as per Airline regulations):

1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via Reservations at RSSC at least 1 month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations will result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which Regent Seven Seas Cruises nor our local ground operator be responsible for.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

It is essential to have a valid Indian Visa before travelling

Accommodation:

Delhi :

The Oberoi Gurgaon

443, Udyog Vihar, Phase V Road, Phase V, Sector 19, Gurugram, Haryana 122016, India

Phone: +91 124 245 1234

Agra :

ITC Mughal

Taj Ganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh – 282001, India

Tel : +91 562 4021700

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required they will be of equal ratings and standards and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.

Program Includes:

1 night at the Oberoi Gurgaon in Delhi including breakfast –deluxe room

2 nights at the ITC Mughal in Agra including breakfast – deluxe room

2 lunches and 2 dinners (including house wines, mineral water, soft drinks and beer)

Snacks before retiring on Day 1

1 packed lunch, 1 dinner in flight

Deluxe buses

Mineral water onboard the busses at all times

Applicable entrances, camera/video fees at the Taj Mahal and the other monuments

English speaking guides

Kathak dance performance in Agra

Economy-class airfare from Cochin to Delhi and from Delhi to Mumbai – direct flights are not guaranteed

Program Does Not Include:

Items of a personal nature

Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service

Gratuities to drivers and guides

Any meals or beverages not listed above.

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include: inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.

Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 60 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 60 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.

Gain an extraordinary perspective of the gorgeous Pink City of Jaipur through its architectural highlights and observe iconic wildlife such as Bengal tigers on game drives in a national park.

Special Note: Guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC), CPAP breathing machines or scooters should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour.

Day 1

After disembarking the ship in Cochin and attending to immigration and customs formalities, you will proceed to the airport. Baggage is transported in a separate van to the airport for pre-check-in.

On arrival, receive boarding passes and pass through security before boarding a flight to Jaipur via Hyderabad. Refreshments and dinner will be served aloft.

Jaipur is the capital of the desert-like state of Rajasthan, a land rich in legends of romance, chivalry, sacrifice, and heroic deeds.

You will spend the night at the Jai Mahal Palace, the former residence of the Prime Minister. Its graceful architecture is uniquely Rajput, with cupolas, minarets, and arched doorways. Open-air verandahs spill out onto lovely grounds where peacocks strut.

Day 2

Following breakfast, explore the Pink City, where an enduring charisma of the past blends with the throbbing vitality of today. The scholar and astronomer Jai Singh founded Jaipur centuries ago, and it is considered India’s first planned city. It is often called the Pink City for the predominant color of its buildings.

Continuing to old Jaipur, you will visit the Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds, a fine example of Rajput artistry. It is constructed of red and pink sandstone, beautifully outlined with white borders and motifs painted with quick lime.

You will then head toward the City Palace, a sprawling structure surrounded by a high wall. The royal family lives in a portion of the palace. Other areas have been converted into museums displaying textiles, costumes, paintings, and carpets.

Across from the palace, you will find the open-air royal observatory Jantar Mantar, an esteemed World Heritage site. Jai Singh ordered its construction in the 18th century. It contains the world’s largest stone sundial, among other astronomical instruments.

As a traditional center of commerce, Jaipur has a variety of attractions, many best explored individually. Bustling bazaars are laden with souvenirs, carpets, world famous gems and jewelry, the specialty being traditional hand block printed fabric, antique textiles, and handicrafts.

After lunch, take a 3 ½ hour drive through the countryside to the famous tiger sanctuary at Ranthambore.

Check-in to the Vanyavilas, designed as a `Jungle Camp’ and lies adjacent to the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve. The resort is set in nineteen acres with an emphasis on maintaining the natural environment with well-established trees, flora, and a large water body. There’s an orchard of lemon, guava, and mango trees, along with a viewing tower facing the sanctuary.

Your accommodation will be in a spacious luxury tent with a beautifully appointed interior and a private deck.

Dinner and overnight at Oberoi Vanyavilas.

Day 3

Coffee, tea, and rolls are served at dawn before proceeding on a drive through the park in a Jeep or canter safari vehicle with expert naturalists. They will point out and describe the great diversity of birds, mammals, and major predators.

The deep gorges of Ranthambore serve as hideouts for animals such as leopards, tigers and sloth bears. The forest also provides a natural habitat for spotted deer and sambar, the largest Asiatic deer. Woodland, ground and water birds are plentiful, including red junglefowl. Although Ranthambore was once a hunting ground for Bengal tigers, it has become a research and conservation area for these magnificent animals, especially in the last decade or so.

The 10th-century Ranthambore Fort that overlooks the reserve is so historically important that UNESCO deemed it a World Heritage site. You may notice various animals resting on its ancient ramparts.

Return to the resort for breakfast and a morning at leisure.

You may choose to visit Dastkar, an extraordinary center for crafts, the majority of them created by women as their sole means of income. The bazaar at Dastkar helps the local villagers become self-reliant, as the craftspeople sell their products independent of a commercial middleman. You will view them creating a huge variety of traditional items by hand.

Later in the afternoon, you will enjoy a second game drive, exploring yet another area of the national park with a naturalist guide.

Return to the resort at dusk.

Lunch, dinner, and overnight at the Oberoi Vanyavilas.

Day 4

After an early breakfast and check-out from the hotel, you will drive to the airport for a flight to Mumbai. A packed lunch will be served at the Jaipur airport and refreshments served aloft.

Upon arrival in Mumbai, you are met and transferred to the port to re-embark the ship.

Baggage is transported in a separate van to the pier.

Land Program Step by Step

The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with up-to-date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

Day 1

1:00pm Disembark and transfer to Cochin airport

3:30pm Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes, and proceed through security

5:35pm Flight from Cochin to Jaipur via Hyderabad (flight details TBA and subject to change)

Refreshments served aloft

7:10pm Arrive at Hyderabad and connect with the flight to Jaipur

8:35pm Flight from Hyderabad to Jaipur (flight details TBA and subject to change)

Dinner served aloft

10:50pm Arrive Jaipur and transfer to your hotel

Overnight at the Jai Mahal Palace or similar hotel

Day 2

7:30am Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Drive to the Pink city en route stopping at the Hawa Mahal

Visit the City Palace and Royal Observatory “Jantar Mantar”

On the return stop by the marketplace

1:30–3:00pm Lunch

3:00pm Drive to Ranthambore

6:30pm Arrive and check-in to your hotel

7:30pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight in Ranthambore at the Oberoi Vanyavilas or similar

Day 3

5:30am Tea, coffee, juices, and rolls are served

6:00am Depart for a morning game drive

9:30am Return to the resort for breakfast

11:00am Visit Dastkar Society

12:30pm Return to the resort for lunch and leisure time

2:30pm Afternoon game drive

6:00pm Return to the resort

From 7:30pm Dinner at the resort

Overnight in Ranthambore at the Oberoi Vanyavilas or similar

Day 4

From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel

8:30am Checkout and drive to Jaipur airport

12:30pm Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes, and proceed through security

Packed lunch served at Jaipur airport

2:20pm Flight from Jaipur to Mumbai (flight details TBA and subject to change)

Refreshments served aloft

3:55pm Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to the pier

6:00pm Arrive at the pier and rejoin the ship

Expected Weather:

High daytime temperatures expected at Jaipur and Ranthambore are between 30 to 35°C (86 to 95°F)

What to Bring:

Casual wear for the day. Also, important is sun block, hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. At the temples, it is customary to remove your footwear before entering. Don’t forget your cameras and chargers.

Currency:

Indian Rupees

US Dollars are widely accepted.

Electricity:

220 – 240 volts. Hotel rooms are equipped with converters however we recommend bringing your own travel adaptors for electric devices.

Luggage:

Light luggage would be most suited for this trip. Guests can bring 1 suitcase per person not weighting more than 15kg or 33lbs as well as 1 carry-on not weighing more than 7kg or 15lbs. Overweight or excess luggage is subject to fees imposed by the airlines and payable upon check in at the airports.

Airline and type of aircraft that may be used (subject to change):

Indigo – Airbus A319 – All Economy class seats (upgrades not available)

Documents and Visa Requirements:

A passport that is valid at least 6 months after travel is required

Please check with your local embassy for any visa requirements for your nationality. A valid Indian Visa is required for this program.

VERY IMPORTANT – The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle, and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.

Failure to have the required documents ahead of time or incorrect names on flight tickets will result in either denial of travel or ticket re-purchase and guests will be responsible for any fees incurred.

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights per airline regulations (subject to change as each airline has its own regulations).

1. Guests must obtain a doctor’s certificate stating their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications, especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type).

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via the Reservations Team at least one month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations may result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which neither cruise line nor our local ground operator will be responsible for.

Guests bringing a scooter must advise our reservations team in advance. Details regarding the scooter will be required (as advised to us by the Indian airlines) including the model, model number, a photo, maximum speed, ground clearance, turning radius, overall length and width of the base, seat type, weight, battery weight, battery requirements, maximum range per charge, battery charger information, battery type (detachable or not), maximum weight capacity and color.

Hotels

Jai Mahal Palace

Jacob Rd, Civil Lines, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302006, India

Phone: +91 141 660 1111

The Oberoi Vanyavilas

Sawai Madhopur, Ranthambhore, Rajasthan 322001, India

Phone: +91 7462 22 3999

*We will only substitute a hotel in unforeseen situations. If a hotel is substituted, it will be similar and with equal ratings and standards, and guests will be notified in advance. If guests are not notified of any changes prior to departure, the hotels listed in this program will be used.

Program Includes:

•1 night at the Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur or similar hotel in a luxury room

•2 nights at the Oberoi Vanyavilas, Ranthambore or similar hotel in a superior room

•Transfers using air-conditioned coaches in Cochin and Mumbai along with a guide

•All meals listed in the itinerary with lunches and dinners inclusive of house wines, beer, bottled water and soft drinks

•Sightseeing per the itinerary in air-conditioned coaches

•2 game drives in Ranthambore in Jeeps accompanied by naturalist guides

•Unlimited mineral water in the coaches at all times

•All entrance and camera fees wherever applicable

•Local tour escort from Cochin to Mumbai

•Economy-class flights between Cochin, Jaipur, and Mumbai (direct flights not guaranteed).

Program Excludes:

•Additional meals or beverages not listed above

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, laundry and room service

•Indian Visa

•Excess or overweight luggage fees on flights

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, gravel or natural paths. There may be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.

Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid-cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.

Gain an extraordinary perspective of the gorgeous Pink City of Jaipur through its architectural highlights and observe iconic wildlife such as Bengal tigers on game drives in a national park.

Special Note: Guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC), CPAP breathing machines or scooters should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour.

Day 1 — April 17, 2024

After disembarking the ship in Cochin and attending to immigration and customs formalities, you proceed to the airport.

There, you will receive a box lunch, pass through security and then fly to Jaipur via Ahmedabad, arriving in the late afternoon. Jaipur is the capital of the desert-like state of Rajasthan, a land rich in legends of romance, chivalry, sacrifice and heroic deeds.

You will spend the evening and dine at the Jai Mahal Palace, the former residence of the Prime Minister. Its graceful architecture is uniquely Rajput, with cupolas, minarets and arched doorways. Open-air verandahs spill out onto lovely grounds where peacocks strut.

Day 2 — April 18, 2024

Join the local residents at dawn as they immerse in a morning Aarti ritual at Govind Dev Ji Temple (also called Krishna Temple). The temple was built in 1735 by the Maharajah Sawai Pratap Singh II and decorated with many beautiful chandeliers and Indian paintings. The building has the world’s largest, single-span flat roof and was positioned so that the Maharajah would enjoy a direct view of it from his palace.

`Aarti’ is a Sanskrit word for homage or devotion. The aarti or offering of lamps is observed at prescribed hours of the day and night to invoke the gods. It is believed that the gods physically present themselves before devotees at this ceremony. Lamps are revolved before the idol in a clockwise manner along with the chanting of hymns.

This recitation is accompanied by drums, the blowing of a conch-shell and the tolling of temple bells. At the end of the `aarti’, the priest takes a handful of water, which he revolves around the god's idol to pacify `agni' (the fire god), who is pressed into service in the form of a wick lamp. The lamps themselves are charged with this "presence" and thus after the ceremony devotees collect the fumes and smear their faces with its aroma.

Following this unique ritual, return to your hotel for breakfast.

After breakfast, explore the Pink City, where an enduring charisma of the past blends with the throbbing vitality of today. The scholar and astronomer Jai Singh founded Jaipur centuries ago, and it is considered India’s first planned city. It is often called the Pink City for the predominant color of its buildings.

Among the highlights is Amber Fort, former seat of the Rajput rulers of Jaipur. There, you may wander through the exquisite palaces and visit Shiladevi temple, the private temple of the royal family. Its marble carvings and silver door are spectacular.

Continuing to old Jaipur, you will visit the Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds, a fine example of Rajput artistry. It is constructed of red and pink sandstone, beautifully outlined with white borders and motifs painted with quick lime.

You will then head toward the City Palace, a sprawling structure surrounded by a high wall. The royal family lives in a portion of the palace. Other areas have been converted into museums displaying textiles, costumes, paintings and carpets.

Across from the palace, you will find the open-air royal observatory Jantar Mantar, an esteemed World Heritage site. Jai Singh ordered its construction in the 18th century. It contains the world’s largest stone sundial, among other astronomical instruments.

Return to the hotel for a late lunch after which you will have a 3.5-hour drive through the countryside to the famous tiger sanctuary at Ranthambore. Your stay here is at Taj Vivanta Sawai Madhopur Lodge, former tiger hunting retreat of the Maharaja of Jaipur.

Dinner and overnight at Taj Vivanta Sawai Madhopur Lodge.

Day 3 – April 19, 2024

Coffee, tea and rolls are served at dawn before proceeding on a drive through the park in a Jeep or canter safari vehicle with expert naturalists. They will point out and describe the great diversity of birds, mammals and major predators.

The deep gorges of Ranthambore serve as hideouts for animals such as leopards, tigers and sloth bears. The forest also provides a natural habitat for spotted deer and sambar, the largest Asiatic deer. Woodland, ground and water birds are plentiful, including red junglefowl. Although Ranthambore was once a hunting ground for Bengal tigers, it has become a research and conservation area for these magnificent animals, especially in the last decade or so.

The 10th-century Ranthambore Fort that overlooks the reserve is so historically important that UNESCO deemed it a World Heritage site. You may notice various animals resting on its ancient ramparts.

Return to the resort for breakfast and a morning at leisure.

In the afternoon, you may choose to visit Dastkar, an extraordinary center for crafts, the majority of them created by women as their sole means of income. The bazaar at Dastkar helps the local villagers become self-reliant, as the craftspeople sell their products independent of a commercial middleman. You will view them creating a huge variety of traditional items by hand.

Later in the afternoon, you will enjoy a second game drive, exploring yet another area of the national park with a naturalist guide.

Dinner follows at the lodge, where you will spend the evening.

Day 4 – April 20, 2024

Coffee, tea and rolls are served at dawn before returning to the forest for a final game run.

Return to the lodge for a quick breakfast and then drive back to the Jaipur airport for a flight to Mumbai.

Lunch is served at Jaipur airport and refreshments are served aloft.

Once in Mumbai, transfer to the pier to re-board your ship.

Land Program Step by Step

The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with up-to-date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

Day 1

10:30am Disembark in Cochin, complete immigration and custom formalities and transfer to the Cochin airport

11:45am Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security. Lunch boxes are handed out at the airport

1:15pm Flight Cochin for Jaipur via Ahmedabad (flight details TBA and subject to change)

5:40pm Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel

6:30pm Check in

7:30pm Dinner included at the hotel

Overnight at the Taj Jai Mahal Palace or similar hotel

Day 2

6:30am Visit the Govind Dev (Krishna) Temple to witness the Aarti ceremony

Tea, coffee, juices and rolls will be served in the hotel lobby prior to departure

8:00am Breakfast at the hotel

9:30am Depart for the Amber Fort with a stop at the Hawa Mahal

11:30am On the return visit the City Palace and Jantar Mantar

1:30–2:45pm Lunch

3:00pm Drive to Ranthambore

6:30pm Arrive and check-in to the lodge

From 7:30pm Dinner at the lodge

Overnight at the Taj Sawai Madhopur Lodge or similar hotel

Day 3

5:30am Tea, coffee, juices and rolls are served

6:00am Depart for a morning game drive

9:30am Return to the lodge for breakfast

11:00am Visit Dastkar Society

12:30pm Return to the lodge for lunch and leisure time

2:30pm Afternoon game drive

6:000pm Return to the lodge

From 7:30pm Dinner at the lodge

Overnight at the Taj Sawai Madhopur Lodge or similar hotel

Day 4

5:30am Tea, coffee, juices and bread rolls are served

6:00am Depart for a morning game drive

8:00am Return to the lodge for breakfast

9:00am Checkout and drive back to Jaipur airport

12:30pm Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security. Lunch is served at Jaipur airport

2:00pm Flight Jaipur to Mumbai (flight details TBA and subject to change) Refreshments are served aloft

3:50pm Arrive Mumbai and transfer to the pier

5:30pm Arrive at the pier and reboard the ship

Expected Weather:

Days are sunny with temperatures between 30 to 35°C (86 to 95°F).

What to Bring:

Casual wear for the day. Also, important is sun block, hat, sunglasses and comfortable walking shoes. At the temples, it is customary to remove your footwear before entering. Don’t forget your cameras and chargers.

Currency:

Indian Rupees

US Dollars are widely accepted.

Electricity:

220 – 240 volts. Hotel rooms are equipped with converters however we recommend bringing your own travel adaptors for electric devices.

Luggage:

Light luggage would be most suited for this trip. Guests can bring 1 suitcase per person not weighting more than 15kg or 33lbs as well as 1 carry-on not weighing more than 7kg or 15lbs. Overweight or excess luggage is subject to fees imposed by the airlines and payable upon check in at the airports.

Airline & type of aircraft that may be used (subject to change):

Indigo – Airbus A319 – All Economy (upgrades not available)

Air India – Airbus A319 – All Economy (upgrades not available)

Documents and Visa Requirements:

A passport that is valid at least 6 months after travel is required

Please check with your local embassy for any visa requirements for your nationality. A valid Indian Visa is required for this program.

VERY IMPORTANT – The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.

Failure to have the required documents ahead of time or incorrect names on flight tickets will result in either denial of travel or ticket re-purchase and guests will be responsible for any fees incurred.

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights per airline regulations (subject to change as each airline has its own regulations).

1. Guests must obtain a doctor’s certificate stating their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications, especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type).

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via the Reservations Team at least one month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations may result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which the neither cruise line nor our local ground operator will be responsible for.

Guests bringing a scooter must advise our reservations team in advance. Details regarding the scooter will be required (as advised to us by the Indian airlines) including the model, model number, a photo, maximum speed, ground clearance, turning radius, overall length and width of the base, seat type, weight, battery weight, battery requirements, maximum range per charge, battery charger information, battery type (detachable or not), maximum weight capacity and color.

Hotels

Jai Mahal Palace

Jacob Rd, Civil Lines, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302006, India

Phone: +91 141 222 3636

Taj Vivanta Sawai Madhopur Lodge

Ranthambore National Park Road, Sawai Madhopur - 322001

Phone: (+91-7462) 225155

*We will only substitute a hotel in unforeseen situations. If a hotel is substituted, it will be similar and with equal ratings and standards, and guests will be notified in advance. If guests are not notified of any changes prior to departure, the hotels listed in this program will be used.

Program Includes

•1 night at the Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur or similar hotel in a luxury room

2 nights at the Taj Vivanta Sawai Madhopur Lodge, Ranthambore or similar hotel in a superior room

•Transfers using air-conditioned coaches in Cochin and Mumbai along with a guide

•All meals listed in the itinerary with lunches and dinners inclusive of house wines, beer, bottled water and soft drinks

•Sightseeing per the itinerary in air-conditioned coaches

•Up to 3 game drives in Ranthambore in Jeeps accompanied by naturalist guides

•Unlimited mineral water in the coaches at all times

•All entrance and camera fees wherever applicable

•Local tour escort from Cochin to Mumbai

•Economy-class flights between Cochin, Jaipur and Mumbai (direct flights not guaranteed).

Program Excludes

•Additional meals or beverages not listed above

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, laundry and room service

•Indian Visa

•Excess or overweight luggage fees

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, gravel or natural paths. There may be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.

Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid-cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 60 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 60 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.

One of the best-known structures in the world, Agra’s fabled Taj Mahal will awe your senses and forever capture your heart. Considered to be the finest example of Mughal architecture, the Taj Mahal is a glistening mass of white marble and semi-precious stones set amid impeccably landscaped grounds. This program includes the opportunity to visit three UNESCO world heritage sites: the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri; all of which are legacies from Mughal times.

Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour.

DAY 1

After disembarkation from the ship in Cochin, you will proceed to the airport for your flight to Delhi.

Upon arrival at the Cochin airport, you will receive boarding passes and proceed through security. Your bags will be transported to the airport in a separate truck for an advance check-in. Dinner will be served on the flight.

On arrival in Delhi, transfer to your hotel for check-in.

Soup and finger sandwiches are served prior to retiring for the evening.

DAY 2

After breakfast, check out and drive to Agra via the new Yamuna Expressway with vistas of India’s vast rural farming countryside.

Agra, the city of Taj Mahal was one of the grand cities of South Asia. With the arrival of the Mughals in 1526 led by Babur, Agra entered a completely new era during the reign of emperors Akbar, Jehangir and Shah Jahan. Akbar made it a great center for learning, art, commerce and culture. Its cosmopolitan bazaars and its strategic location on the river Jamuna, was altogether a worthier setting for the focus of an empire.

Upon arrival in Agra check-in to your hotel. Oberoi Amarvilas is voted as one of the top three hotels of the world. Its classical architecture is complemented by elaborate Mughul gardens, terraced lawns, fountains, reflection pools and pavilions and every room has a frontal view of the Taj Mahal.

After lunch visit Agra Fort, a World Heritage Site credited to Emperor Akbar, India’s great visionary. His sons and theirs added to this imposing structure situated by the banks of the Yamuna River. The astonishing palaces, mosques and audience halls contained within its massive walls of red sandstone became once more a monumental mission of the Mughal Empire embellished by the artistic fusion of Islamic and Hindu tradition.

Back at your hotel, and after some time to freshen up, enjoy the classical dance form of Kathak in the ballroom. A buffet dinner follows the dance performance.

Day 3

Enjoy tea, coffee, juices and rolls in the lobby before departing for the Taj Mahal. With its incredible lacy white grandeur, it is perhaps the most perfect architectural monument in the world. In memory of his wife, the great Mughal emperor Shah Jehan planned this most extravagant and incomparable monument built for love. Although amazingly graceful from any angle, it is the close-up detail, which is really astounding.

Return to your hotel for breakfast.

Morning option following breakfast:

•Drive an hour into the Indian countryside to visit Fatehpur Sikri, the red sandstone former capital of the Mughal empire. The city lived between A.D. 1571 up to 1585 and then became a ghost town, abandoned, possibly due to complexities with the water systems.

•Visit the Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah in the old city, the first Mughal structure pioneering the extensive use

of `pietra dura’, the inlay work of marble, so characteristic of the Taj Mahal. This mausoleum is small and squat when compared to the Taj, but the more human scale has its own attraction, and the skillfully patterned surface of the tomb is exquisite.

Afternoon Options following lunch:

•Visit the Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah as described above

•At the hotel, Agra’s leading astrologer will be available for consultation. Appointments for an analysis of your personal horoscope can be made at the Regent Seven Seas Hospitality desk

•Take a look at some of Agra’s famous shopping …. Kohinoor, erstwhile jewelers to the Mughal court, featured in National Geographic. Old emerald necklaces, enamel, jewelry, silver, pocket watches in Gold and silver, textiles and embroidery form part of their private collection. The Marble Inlay factories steeped in this decorative art culture are also a specialty of Agra.

Later in the day revisit the Taj Mahal at sunset where the monument appears to change its hue, tinted by the glow of the setting sun.

Dinner will be served back at your hotel

Day 4

Early this morning, return to Delhi for a flight to Mumbai. Tea, coffee, juices and rolls will be served in the lobby prior to departure.

At the airport, collect boarding passes and proceed through security and then onto the plane for the flight to Mumbai. A packed lunch is served at the airport and snacks are served on the flight.

Upon arrival in Mumbai, transfer to the pier to rejoin your ship.

A separate van will be provided for transportation of your luggage to the pier

Land Program Step by Step:

Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

Day 1

4:00pm Disembark the ship in Cochin and transfer to the airport

5:45pm Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

7:45pm Depart Cochin for a flight to Delhi (Flight details TBA and subject to change) Dinner will be served on the flight

10:55pm Arrive in Delhi and transfer to your hotel

11:30pm Arrive and check-in. Soup and finger sandwiches are served

Overnight at The Oberoi Gurgaon or similar hotel

Day 2

8:00am Breakfast at your hotel

9:30am Depart for Agra by road

1:30pm Arrive in Agra and check-in to your hotel

From 2:00pm Lunch and time at leisure

4:30pm Visit Agra Fort

7:00pm Classical Kathak dance performance at the hotel followed by dinner

Overnight at the Oberoi Amarvilas or similar hotel

Day 3

4:45am Tea, coffee, juices and rolls served in the lobby

5:30am Depart for the Taj Mahal

5:30 – 7:30am Sunrise visit of the monument

From 8:00am Breakfast at the hotel

Morning options

9:30am Visit Fatehpur Sikri or

9:30am Visit Itmad-Ud-Daulah

12:30–2:00pm Lunch at the hotel

Afternoon options

2:30pm-5:00pm Visit Itmad-Ud-Daulah or

2:30pm–5:00pm Shuttles to local market and inlay factories or

2:30pm–5:00pm Appointment with the local astrologer

5:30pm Revisit the Taj Mahal at sunset

From 7:00pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Oberoi Amarvilas or similar hotel

Day 4

From 7:00am Breakfast at your hotel

9:00am Check out and drive back to Delhi

12:30pm Arrive at the Delhi airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

A packed lunch is served at the airport

2:20pm Flight from Delhi to Mumbai (Flight details TBA and subject to change) Refreshments are served mid flight

4:30pm Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to the pier

6:30pm Arrive at the pier and reboard your ship

NOTE:

Oberoi Gurgaon

•2 steps plus ramp from the lobby to the elevator area

•2 steps plus ramp from the elevator to the all-day dining restaurant

Oberoi Amarvilas

•3 flights of steps (5 each) along the path to get to the lobby

•Rooms: All floors are accessible from the lobby by elevator except for the first floor which has 4 easy steps to climb

•Restaurants: Accessible by the elevator from the rooms and lobby

•Ballroom & Jodha Gardens: located in the lobby level…4 to 6 easy steps to get to both these venues

Taj Mahal

•6 steps down from the first platform to get to the main mausoleum. 6 steps climb to the base of the mosque. 22 steps up to get to the main tomb. Wheelchair accessible only up to the base of the main mausoleum.

Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri & Tomb of Itmad–Ud–Daulah:

•All these monuments have one or two easy steps plus ramps at different locations which are accessible by wheelchair

Expected Weather:

Days are sunny and comfortable with temperatures between 30 to 35°C (86 to 95°F). The evenings will be cooler.

What to Bring:

Casual wear for the day. Also, important is sun block, hat, sunglasses and comfortable walking shoes. As the Taj Mahal is also a mausoleum there are certain religious customs to be observed. As a token of respect, it is customary to remove your footwear before entering. Avoid tops with spaghetti straps and short shorts for ladies – knee length shorts are okay for ladies and gents.

Currency:

Indian Rupees. US Dollars are widely accepted

Electricity:

220 – 240 volts. Hotel rooms are equipped with converters however we recommend you bring your own travel adaptors for electric devices as a backup.

Luggage:

Light luggage would be most suited for this trip. A maximum of 1 suitcase is permitted per person and one carry-on. Suitcases are not to weigh more than 15 kg (33 lbs) per airline regulations. Any luggage exceeding this amount will be subject to fees payable by the guest directly to the airline at the time of check-in.

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights in India (as per Airline regulations):

1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via Reservations at RSSC at least 1 month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations will result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which Regent Seven Seas Cruises nor our local ground operator be responsible for.

Guests brining a scooter will need to advise our Reservations team in advance. Specific details regarding the scooter will be required (as advised to us by the Indian airlines) including model, model number, a photo, maximum speed, ground clearance, turning radius, overall length & width of the base, seat type, weight, battery weight, battery requirements, maximum range per charge, battery charger information, battery type (detachable or not), maximum weight capacity, color.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

It is essential to have a valid Indian Visa in advance of this trip.

Guests must bring their passport with them

VERY IMPORTANT – The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.

Failure to have the required documents ahead of time will result in denial of travel and guests will have to pay for any expenses incurred in order to not proceed with the program.

Accommodation:

The Oberoi Gurgaon - Delhi

443, Udyog Vihar, Phase V, Gurgaon, Haryana – 122 016

Phone: +91 124 2451234

Agra:

Oberoi Amarvilas - Agra

Taj East Gate Road, Agra 282001, India

Phone: +91 562 2231515

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.

Program Includes:

•1 night at The Oberoi Gurgaon in Delhi or similar hotel – Deluxe room

•2 nights at The Oberoi Amarvilas - Premier Room

•Transfers, sightseeing and road journeys using air-conditioned deluxe coaches

•Unlimited mineral water will be provided in the bus

•All meals inclusive of house wines, beer, mineral water, sodas and current taxes

•Economy class flights from Cochin to Delhi and from Delhi to Mumbai - Direct flights are not guaranteed

•Entrance fees and camera and video charges at the Taj Mahal monument

•Tours per the itinerary including options on Day 3

•Kathak dance performance

•Local fortuneteller

•The services of an accompanying Tour Manager from Cochin until Mumbai

Not Included:

•Any meals or beverages not listed in the itinerary

•Personal expenses

•Gratuities to drivers and guides

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, laundry and room service

•Visa fees

•Excess or overweight luggage fees on flights

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.

Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation pen

Delve into the religious beliefs of the Sikhs by visiting the glorious Golden Temple and similarly explore Tibetan Buddhism at Dharamsala – the home of the exiled Dalai Lama – and at other sacred sites.

Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC), CPAP breathing machines or scooters should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour. The program is manageable for guests with mobility restrictions as long as they are travelling with someone to assist. Guests must be able to get on and off the tour coaches with little to no assistance. There will be various steps to negotiate at the hotels and sites visited (2-30 steps) and wheelchair ramps are not always available although most sites have them.

DAY 1 - April 15, 2027

Disembark the ship in Cochin, complete immigration and customs formalities, meet your guide and transfer to the airport for a flight to Amritsar via Delhi. A boxed lunch will be served at the Cochin airport and light refreshments will be served during the flight.

Amritsar, which means “Pool of the Nectar of Immortality” (named after the sacred pool in the Golden Temple) was founded in 1577 on a site donated by the great Mughal Emperor Akbar. It became an important junction on the Old Silk Trading Route, bringing with it a presence of different peoples; Yarkandis, Turkomans, Kashmiris, Tibetans and Iranians. These days it is the second largest town in India’s northern State of Punjab.

Arriving in Amritsar, collect your luggage and transfer to your centrally located hotel for dinner and overnight.

Dinner and overnight.

DAY 2 - April 16, 2027

After breakfast, depart for a visit to the Golden Temple.

The name Golden Temple comes from the gold-coloured lining of the building from its copper cupolas down to the marble walls. The temple, always celebrated for its riches, has been plundered several times over the centuries. Despite the splendour, an atmosphere of deep religiousness envelops the place.

Called Darbar Sahib which means Court of the Lord, the temple best exemplifies Indo-Moslem art. Begun in 1574, it stands in the centre of an enormous pool circled by steps and wings of buildings. Delicate inlay work of ivory and mirror and elegantly moulded stucco come together to create an extravagant and opulent interior.

An essential part of the temple is the ‘Langar’ or public kitchen, where free food is prepared and served to at least fifty thousand worshippers every day; an expression of the Sikh belief that “nothing is more important than Seva or service in the realisation of brotherhood.

Mounds of flour are kneaded by muscular young men, while a group of women roll the dough into balls, flattened and tossed into a giant griddle, almost ten feet in diameter to make rotis or bread which then get transported in conveyor belts. All the food and fuel in the Langar comes from offerings that are donated by pilgrims and wealthy benefactors. Each devotee contributes his or her share of the work. The Sikh religion has always emphasized the importance of community service, and within the temple precincts there is an atmosphere of collective harmony.

After this enlightening visit, return to your hotel for lunch.

The afternoon is at leisure with options for spa treatments at the hotel (additional cost). However, you can also decide with your guide to explore the marketplace.

After an early dinner, revisit the Golden Temple to witness the daily ‘Night Ritual” when the `Holy Book’ is reverently closed and put to bed after final evening prayers. It is carried in a silver palanquin to an adjacent building known as Akal Takht, seat of the ‘Sikh’ religious order. The floors of the temple are then washed with milk and water before its doors are shut. At dawn, the Holy Book is carried back to the Golden Temple.

Return to your hotel where the remainder of the evening is at your leisure.

DAY 3 - April 17, 2027

A continental breakfast is served before transferring to the airport for a flight to Delhi. Light refreshments will be served during the flight.

On arrival, proceed on a scenic drive to Agra via the new Yamuna Expressway. Sit back, relax and take in the vistas of India’s vast rural farming countryside along the way. A rest stop will be made along the way and a packed breakfast will be served during the drive.

Agra, the city of Taj Mahal was one of the grand cities of South Asia. With the arrival of the Mughals in 1526 led by Babur, Agra entered a completely new era during the reign of emperors Akbar, Jehangir and Shah Jahan. Akbar made it a great center for learning, art, commerce and culture. Its cosmopolitan bazaars and its strategic location on the river Jamuna, was altogether a worthier setting for the focus of an empire.

Arriving in Agra, check in and enjoy lunch and some time at leisure at your hotel.

This evening, visit the Taj Mahal - the ivory gate which all dreams pass. A lacy white grandeur, perhaps the most perfect architectural monument accomplished. Amazingly graceful from any angle, it is the close-up detail which is really astounding. At dusk the monument appears to change its hue, tinted by the glow of the setting sun.

Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight.

DAY 4 - April 18, 2027

Coffee, tea, juices and bread rolls served in the lobby prior to departing for the Taj Mahal at sunrise, as the early rays of the sun cast upon the pearl-white tomb.

Return to your hotel for breakfast which is followed by the morning and afternoon at leisure, or you may opt to participate in one of the below included options:

Morning options :

•See the World Heritage Agra Fort, credited to Emperor Akbar, India’s great visionary. His sons and theirs added to this imposing structure situated by the banks of the Yamuna River. The astonishing palaces, mosques and audience halls contained within its massive walls of red sandstone became once more a monumental mission of the Mughal Empire embellished by the artistic fusion of Islamic and Hindu traditions.

•Visit the Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah in the old city, the first Mughal structure pioneering the extensive use

of `pietra dura’, the inlay work of marble, so characteristic of the Taj Mahal. This mausoleum is small and squat when compared to the Taj, but the more human scale has its own attraction, and the skillfully patterned surface of the tomb is exquisite.

Return to the hotel for lunch.

Afternoon options:

•Visit the Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah in the old city as described above

•There are options to browse shops such as Kohinoor, jewelers to the mughal court, featured in National Geographic. Old emerald necklaces, enamel jewelry and embroidery form part of their private collection. The Marble Inlay factories steeped in this decorative art culture are also a specialty of Agra.

•At the hotel, Agra’s leading astrologer will be available for consultation. Appointments for an analysis of your personal horoscope can be made at the Regent Hospitality desk.

Prior to dinner enjoy a short cultural show featuring the classical dance form of Kathak. This royal courtroom dance arose from the fusion of Hindu and Muslim cultures during the Mughal era. It is characterized by rhythmic footwork, spectacular spins, mime and gestures that are a dramatic representation of themes from Persian poetry synthesized with Hindu mythology.

After dinner the remainder of the evening is at your leisure.

DAY 5 - April 19, 2027

After an early breakfast, drive back to Delhi for a flight to Mumbai. A rest stop will be made along the way. Light

refreshments will be served on the bus and lunch will be served on the flight.

Upon arrival in Mumbai, transfer to the pier and re-board the ship.

Land Program Step by Step:

Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

DAY 1

10:00am Disembark in Cochin, clear immigration and custom formalities, transfer to the airport

12:00pm Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

Box lunch served at Cochin airport

2:00pm Flight from Cochin to Amritsar via Delhi (flight details TBA and subject to change) Light refreshments served during the flight

5:20pm Arrive in Delhi and connect to a flight to Amritsar

8:20pm Flight from Delhi to Amritsar (flight details TBA and subject to change) Light refreshments served during the flight

9:25pm Arrive in Amritsar and transfer to your hotel

10:30pm Arrive at the hotel, dinner and check-in

Overnight at the Taj Amritsar or similar hotel

DAY 2

From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Visit the Golden Temple followed the Langar (Community Kitchen)

12:30pm Return to your hotel for lunch and time at leisure

3:30pm The guide and vehicle are available to explore the colorful markets

7:00pm Early dinner at the hotel

8:30pm Return to the Golden Temple and witness the Night Ceremony

TBA Return to your hotel

Overnight at the Taj Amritsar or similar hotel

DAY 3

5:00am Continental breakfast is served

5:30am Transfer to the airport for a flight to Delhi

6:00am Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

7:35am Flight from Amritsar to Delhi (flight details TBA and subject to change)

Light refreshments are served during the flight

8:45am Arrive in Delhi and drive to Agra, packed breakfast served along the way

1:30pm Arrive in Agra for lunch, check-in and time at leisure

4:30pm Visit Taj Mahal for sunset

From 7:00pm Dinner at your hotel

Overnight at the Courtyard by Marriott or similar hotel

DAY 4

5:45am Continental breakfast is served

6:30am Sunrise visit of the Taj Mahal

From 7:00am Breakfast is served at the hotel

Morning options:

9:00-12:30 pm (a) Tour of Agra Fort

9:00-12:30 pm (b) Tour of Itmad-Ud-Daulah.

12:30 – 3:00 pm Lunch at the hotel and time at leisure

Afternoon options:

3:00-5:30 pm (a) Tour of Itmad-Ud-Daulah.

3:00-5:30pm (b) Shopping shuttle on the hour to the marble inlay factory and local markets.

3:00-5:30pm (c) Appointments with Agra’s famous astrologer

7:00pm Classical Kathak dance performance at the hotel

From 7:30pm Dinner at your hotel

Overnight at the Courtyard by Marriott or similar hotel

DAY 5

From 5:00am Breakfast

6:30am Drive back to the Delhi airport for a flight to Mumbai

Light refreshments served on the flight

10:30am Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

12:30pm Flight from Delhi to Mumbai (flight details TBA and subject to change) Lunch served during the flight

2:40pm Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to the pier

5:00pm Arrive and re-board the ship

Expected Weather:

Days are sunny and hot with temperatures between 30° to 35°C (86° to 95°F). The evenings are a bit cooler between 25° to 30°C (77° to 86°F).

What to Bring:

Casual cotton wear for the day. Also, bring sun block, hats, sunglasses and comfortable walking shoes. At the temples in Amritsar footwear is to be removed, socks will be provided.

As the Taj Mahal is a mausoleum, certain religious customs must be observed. As a token of respect, it is customary to remove your footwear before entering. Ladies should avoid wearing tank tops or any top with spaghetti straps, as well as short shorts. Knee-length shorts are acceptable for men and women.

Currency:

Indian Rupees

US Dollars are widely accepted

Electricity:

The electric voltage in India is 220 – 240 volts. We recommend bringing your own universal travel adapter for electric devices

Proposed Aircraft type (subject to change):

Air India – Airbus A319 – All Economy seats

IndiGo : Airbus 320 – All Economy seats

Luggage information

For the flights on this program, guests are permitted to check in a maximum of 1 suitcase per person not to weigh more than 15kg (33 lbs). One carry on is permitted with a maximum weight of 7 kgs (15 lbs). Any luggage exceeding this amount will be subject to fees payable by the guest directly to the airline at the time of check-in.

Note:

Power banks and electronic equipment must be carried in hand luggage, not permitted in checked luggage

No sharp items are permitted in hand luggage i.e. scissor, nail cutter/file, razors

Liquids more than 100 ml are not permitted in hand luggage

Satellite phones and E-cigarettes are banned in India and need to be left on board the ship

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights in India (as per Airline regulations):

1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via Reservations at RSSC at least 1 month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations will result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which Regent Seven Seas Cruises nor our local ground operator be responsible for.

Guests brining a scooter will need to advise our Reservations team in advance. Specific details regarding the scooter will be required (as advised to us by the Indian airlines) including model, model number, a photo, maximum speed, ground clearance, turning radius, overall length & width of the base, seat type, weight, battery weight, battery requirements, maximum range per charge, battery charger information, battery type (detachable or not), maximum weight capacity, color.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

It is essential to have a valid Indian Visa in advance of this trip.

Guests must bring their passport with them

VERY IMPORTANT – The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.

Failure to have the required documents ahead of time will result in denial of travel and guests will have to pay for any expenses incurred in order to not proceed with the program.

The above information is subject to change and serves as a guide only. We would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our guests that it is the ultimate and sole responsibility of the guest to ensure they meet the entry requirements for each destination.

If traveling internationally, the countries you are flying to and/ or connecting through may have different document requirements and as such we encourage you to visit the government and airport websites of every country you will be traveling to throughout the journey to familiarize yourself with their requirements for your nationality.

Accommodations:

Taj Swarna

Outer Circular Road, Opp. Basant Avenue, Amritsar, Punjab – 143001

Phone : (+91-183) 6658000

Courtyard Agra

Taj Nagri, Phase II, Fatehabad Road, Agra – 282001

Phone: (+91-562) 2457777

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.

Program Includes:

•2 nights at the Taj Swarna including breakfast – Deluxe room

•2 nights at the Courtyard Agra including breakfasts – Deluxe room

•Transfers, sightseeing and road journeys using air-conditioned deluxe coaches

•Unlimited mineral water will be provided in the bus

•Lunches and dinners inclusive of house wines, beer, mineral water, sodas

•Economy class flights per the itinerary - Direct flights are not guaranteed

•Entrance fees and camera and video charges

•Kathak dance performance

•Local fortuneteller

•The services of an accompanying Tour Manager throughout the entire program

Not Included:

•Any meals or beverages not listed in the itinerary

•Personal expenses

•Gratuities to drivers and guides

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, laundry and room service

•Excess or overweight luggage

•Indian visa

•Optional hotel services such as the spa

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.

Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.

One of the best-known structures in the world, Agra’s fabled Taj Mahal will awe your senses and forever capture your heart. Considered to be the finest example of Mughal architecture, the Taj Mahal is a glistening mass of white marble and semi-precious stones set amid impeccably landscaped grounds. This program includes the opportunity to visit two UNESCO world heritage sites: the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort both of which are legacies from Mughal times.

Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC), CPAP breathing machines or scooters should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour. The program is manageable for guests with mobility restrictions as long as they are travelling with someone to assist. Guests must be able to get on and off the tour coaches with little to no assistance. There will be various steps to negotiate at the hotels and sites visited (2-30 steps) and wheelchair ramps are not always available although most sites have them. Only the base of the Taj Mahal mausoleum is accessible to wheelchairs.

DAY 1 – April 15, 2027

After disembarking the ship in Cochin, you will proceed to the airport for a flight to Delhi. A lunch box will be provided at the airport. Light refreshments will be served during the flight.

On arrival, transfer to your hotel for dinner and overnight.

DAY 2 – April 16,2027

After breakfast, check out and depart for Agra via the Yamuna Expressway. Sit back, relax and take in the vistas of India’s vast rural farming countryside along the way.

Agra, the city of Taj Mahal was one of the grand cities of South Asia. With the arrival of the Mughals in 1526 led by Babur, Agra entered a completely new era during the reign of emperors Akbar, Jehangir and Shah Jahan. Akbar made it a great center for learning, art, commerce and culture. Its cosmopolitan bazaars and its strategic location on the river Jamuna, was altogether a worthier setting for the focus of an empire.

Arrive in Agra and check-in to the renowned Oberoi Amarvilas which boasts uninterrupted views of the Taj Mahal. Voted as one of the top hotels of the world, its classical architecture is complemented by elaborate Mughal gardens, terraced lawns, fountains, reflection pools and pavilions. Every room has a frontal view of the Taj Mahal.

Enjoy lunch and some time at leisure before departing for the World Heritage Agra Fort, credited to Emperor Akbar, India’s great visionary. His sons and theirs added to this imposing structure situated by the banks of the Yamuna River. The astonishing palaces, mosques and audience halls contained within its massive walls of red sandstone became once more a monumental mission of the Mughal Empire embellished by the artistic fusion of Islamic and Hindu traditions.

Return to your hotel and just prior to dinner, enjoy a short cultural show featuring the classical dance form of Kathak. This royal courtroom dance arose from the fusion of Hindu and Muslim cultures during the Mughal era. It is characterized by rhythmic footwork, spectacular spins, mime and gestures that are a dramatic representation of themes from Persian poetry synthesized with Hindu mythology. Dinner at the hotel will follow.

Note: The Taj Mahal is not open on Friday's

DAY 3 – April 17, 2027

This morning you will discover the Taj Mahal at dawn. Coffee, tea, juices and rolls are served in the lobby prior to your departure.

With its incredible lacy white grandeur, it is perhaps the most perfect architectural monument in the world. In memory of his wife, the great Mughal emperor Shah Jehan planned this most extravagant and incomparable monument built for love. Although amazingly graceful from any angle, it is the close-up detail, which is really astounding.

Following your morning visit, return to your hotel for breakfast.

Morning and afternoon options following breakfast and lunch:

•Visit the Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah in the old city, the first Mughal structure pioneering the extensive use

of `pietra dura’, the inlay work of marble, so characteristic of the Taj Mahal. This mausoleum is small and squat when compared to the Taj, but the more human scale has its own attraction, and the skillfully patterned surface of the tomb is exquisite.

•At the hotel, Agra’s leading astrologer will be available for consultation. Appointments for an analysis of your personal horoscope can be made at the Regent Seven Seas Hospitality desk

•Take a look at some of Agra’s famous shopping including Kohinoor, erstwhile jewelers to the Mughal court, featured in National Geographic. Old emerald necklaces, enamel, jewelry, silver, pocket watches in Gold and silver, textiles and embroidery form part of their private collection. The Marble Inlay factories steeped in this decorative art culture are also a specialty of Agra.

Later in the day, re-visit the Taj Mahal at sunset where the monument appears to change its hue, tinted by the glow of the setting sun.

Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight.

Day 4 – April 18, 2027

After breakfast, check out and drive to the Delhi airport for a flight to Mumbai. A restroom stop will be made along the way. Lunch will be served at the Delhi airport.

Upon arrival in Mumbai, transfer to the pier where you will re-board the ship.

Land Program Step by Step:

Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

DAY 1

9:30am Disembark in Cochin, clear immigration and customs and transfer to the airport

12:00pm Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security

Lunch box served at Cochin airport

2:00pm Flight from Cochin to Delhi (flight details TBA and subject to change) Light refreshments will be served during the flight

5:20pm Arrive in Delhi and transfer to your hotel

6:45pm Arrive at the hotel and check-in

From 7:30pm Dinner at your hotel

Overnight at the Oberoi Gurgaon or similar hotel

DAY 2

From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Drive to Agra via the Yamuna Expressway

1:00pm Arrive in Agra, check in, lunch and time at leisure

4:30pm Visit Agra Fort

6:30pm Return to the hotel

7:00pm Classical Kathak dance performance

From 7:30pm Dinner at your hotel

Overnight at the Oberoi Amarvilas or similar hotel

DAY 3

5:00am Tea, coffee, juices are served in the lobby

5:30am Sunrise visit of the Taj Mahal

From 7:00am Breakfast is served at the hotel

Morning options:

9:30-12:00 noon (a) Tour of Itmad-Ud-Daulah

9:30-12:00 noon (b) Shopping shuttle on the hour to the marble inlay factory and local markets

9:30-12:00 noon (c) Appointments with Agra’s famous astrologer

From 12:30pm Lunch at the hotel

Afternoon options:

2:00-4:30pm (a) Tour of Itmad-Ud-Daulah

2:00-4:30pm (b) Shopping shuttle on the hour to the marble inlay factory and local markets

2:00-4:30pm (c) Appointments with Agra’s famous astrologer

4:45pm Visit the Taj Mahal and stay on until sunset.

7:00pm Return to the hotel

From 7:30pm Dinner at your hotel

Overnight at the Oberoi Amarvilas or similar hotel

DAY 4

From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Check out and drive to Delhi airport. Restroom stop enroute

1:00pm Arrive at the airport, receive boarding passes and proceed through security Lunch served at Delhi airport

3:15pm Flight from Delhi to Mumbai (flight details TBA and subject to change)

Light refreshments served during the flight

5:20pm Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to the pier

7:30pm Arrive at the pier and reboard the ship

Steps on tour:

Taj Mahal

•Six steps at the entryway

•Six steps at the mosque

•Twenty-two steps to access the main tomb in the mausoleum

•Wheelchair accessible only up to the base of the mausoleum (tomb not wheelchair accessible)

Tomb of Itmad–Ud–Daulah:

•One or two easy steps plus ramps at different locations which are accessible by wheelchair

Expected Weather:

Delhi and Agra: Days are sunny and hot with temperatures between 30° to 35°C (86° to 95°F). The evenings get a bit cooler between 25° to 30°C (77° to 86°F).

What to Bring:

Casual wear for the day. Also, important is sun block, hat, sunglasses and comfortable walking shoes. As the Taj Mahal is also a mausoleum there are certain religious customs to be observed. As a token of respect, it is customary to remove your footwear before entering. Avoid tops with spaghetti straps and short shorts for ladies – knee length shorts are okay for ladies and gents.

Currency:

Indian Rupees.

US Dollars are widely accepted

Electricity:

220 – 240 volts. Hotel rooms are equipped with converters however we recommend you bring your own travel adaptors for electric devices as a backup.

Proposed Aircraft type (subject to change):

Air India – Airbus A319 – All Economy seats

IndiGo : Airbus 320 – All Economy seats

Luggage:

Light luggage would be most suited for this trip. A maximum of 1 suitcase is permitted per person and one carry-on with a maximum of 7 kgs (15 lbs). Checked suitcases are not to weigh more than 15 kg (33 lbs) per airline regulations. Any luggage exceeding this amount will be subject to fees payable by the guest directly to the airline at the time of check-in.

Note:

Power banks and electronic equipment must be carried in hand luggage, not permitted in checked luggage

No sharp items are permitted in hand luggage i.e. scissor, nail cutter/file, razors

Liquids more than 100 ml are not permitted in hand luggage

Satellite phones and E-cigarettes are banned in India and need to be left on board the ship

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights in India (as per Airline regulations):

1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via Reservations at RSSC at least 1 month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations will result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which Regent Seven Seas Cruises nor our local ground operator be responsible for.

Guests brining a scooter will need to advise our Reservations team in advance. Specific details regarding the scooter will be required (as advised to us by the Indian airlines) including model, model number, a photo, maximum speed, ground clearance, turning radius, overall length & width of the base, seat type, weight, battery weight, battery requirements, maximum range per charge, battery charger information, battery type (detachable or not), maximum weight capacity, color.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

It is essential to have a valid Indian Visa in advance of this trip.

Guests must bring their passport with them

VERY IMPORTANT – The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.

Failure to have the required documents ahead of time will result in denial of travel and guests will have to pay for any expenses incurred in order to not proceed with the program.

The above information is subject to change and serves as a guide only. We would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our guests that it is the ultimate and sole responsibility of the guest to ensure they meet the entry requirements for each destination.

If traveling internationally, the countries you are flying to and/ or connecting through may have different document requirements and as such we encourage you to visit the government and airport websites of every country you will be traveling to throughout the journey to familiarize yourself with their requirements for your nationality.

Accommodation:

Delhi: The Oberoi Gurgaon

443, Udyog Vihar, Phase V, Gurgaon – 122 016, Haryana

Phone: (+91 124) 483 1234

Agra: Oberoi Amarvilas

Taj East Gate Road, Agra 282001, India

Phone: +91 562 2231515

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.

Program Includes:

•1 night at the Oberoi Amarvilas Delhi including breakfast – Deluxe room

•2 nights at Oberoi Amarvilas in Agra including breakfasts – Premium room

•Transfers, sightseeing and road journeys using air-conditioned deluxe coaches

•Unlimited mineral water will be provided in the bus

•Lunches and dinners inclusive of house wines, beer, mineral water, sodas

•Economy class flights per the itinerary - Direct flights are not guaranteed

•Entrance fees and camera and video charges at the Taj Mahal monument

•Kathak dance performance

•Local fortuneteller

•The services of an accompanying Tour Manager throughout the entire program

Not Included:

•Any meals or beverages not listed in the itinerary

•Personal expenses

•Gratuities to drivers and guides

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, laundry and room service

•Excess or overweight luggage

•Indian visa

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.

Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.