Asia Splendors

Day 1st - Arrive New Delhi
Arrive at New Delhi International Airport, where you will be met by our company representative and followed by traditional Indian Welcome. Assistance on arrival and transfer to respective hotel.
 
Delhi is a city that defies a one-line description as the capital of India or as the capital of the world's largest democracy. Actually, Delhi is India in miniature; it is 3,287,263 sq. km of India's fantastic variety compressed into 1,483 sq. km.  Over the millennia, it has wooed rulers, attracted plunderers, and provided historians with so many details. Today, even as it preserves an enviable heritage, Delhi is a true cosmopolitan city, always on the move. Delhi remains the centre of power.  Once it was a city of royal power. Then it became the seat of colonial power. Later it was the seat of bureaucratic power. The seat of political power it has always been. Today it is emerging as an important centre for corporate power too. However, the most fascinating aspect of this city is its cosmopolitan nature.
 Evening free at leisure. Overnight in Delhi
 
Day 2nd - New Delhi
After breakfast proceed for sightseeing.
Morning tour of Old Delhi – also known as Mughal Delhi. This includes the visit of the Red Fort – Shah Jehan's elegant citadel in red sandstone and the Jumma Masjid – India's largest mosque, also built by Shah Jahan. A walk through the narrow lanes where time seems to have stood still will give you a first-hand view of the merchants, the little food and artifact stalls and the teeming population, busy in their daily activities. Thereafter, proceed to Raj Ghat – Mahatma Gandhi's memorial.
                                                 
In the afternoon post lunch city tour of New Delhi, also known as Lutyen's Delhi –visiting the Qutab Minar, a Tower of Victory, built in the 12th century by Qutbuddin Aibak. Within its spacious courtyard stands the Iron Pillar, which dates back to the       4th century AD and bears a Sanskrit inscription in the Gupta style. The pillar has puzzled scientists, as its iron has not rusted in all these centuries. Also visit the Tomb of Humayun - a magnificent structure in red sandstone and white marble and one of the finest examples of the garden tomb, and a precursor to the Taj Mahal. Its proportionate spaces, double dome and refined elegance are characteristic of Mughal architecture.  Also visit India Gate, a memorial of the First World War and drive along the road that leads from there to the Rashtrapathi Bhawan - the residence of the President of India which is flanked by the houses of Parliament and the Government Secretariat buildings.
Overnight in Delhi                   

Day 3rd –New Delhi – Jaipur (260 kms / 5 hrs)
Breakfast at the hotel

Morning drive to Jaipur capital of Rajasthan where royalty still lives in the grandeur of its palaces, where fighting for the honour of the clan has never been a need but a way of life, and where treating guests as gods has been a tradition from time immemorial. Jaipur got its name from its founder Sawai Jai Singh (1693-1743), who had the vision to create a meticulously planned city as his capital. All the houses in the old city are painted pink, including the famous Hawa Mahal, thereby giving the city its popular name, the Pink City.

On arrival check in to the hotel, In the Afternoon visit to Birla Temple, speculator marble temple, glitters in the in the night, later at the time of dinner visit to Chokhi Dhani - an ethnic resort serving Rajasthani & Continental cuisine with live music, astrology, games, folk dances and music, puppet shows in an ambiance of an ethnic village.
Overnight in Jaipur

Day 4th -Jaipur
Breakfast at the hotel    
Early morning an excursion to Amber Fort, situated just outside the city, enjoy the experience of ride on elephant back to and from the top of the hill on which the fort is situated: This is a facade built for the ladies of the royal household in the 19th century. The Amber Fort, the capital of the erstwhile State of Jaipur until 1728 is perched on a hill. It has halls of Public and Private audience, a Sheesh Mahal (hall of mirrors) and various marble palaces which are marvelous examples of ancient Rajput architecture. Ride an Elephant to ascend the hill on which the fort is situated.
Drive past the Hawa Mahal, known popularly as the Palace of Winds

Continue the city tour visiting City Palace - the former royal residence built in a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles which houses a museum with a superb collection of Rajasthani costumes and armoury of the Mughals and Rajputs. It has an art gallery with an excellent collection of miniature paintings, carpets, royal paraphernalia and rare astronomical works.  Also visit the Jantar Mantar - an astrological and astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh in the 18th century, which is remarkable for its accuracy even in the present times.
Overnight in Jaipur                                  

Day 5th Jaipur – Fatehpur Sikri - Agra (270 kms - 6 hrs)
Breakfast at the hotel and drive to Agra (260 kms/ 5 hours drive) en route Fatehpur Sikri is the exquisite city built by Akbar the Great in 1569, in red sandstone, with its forts, palaces and mosques, and abandoned 14 years after its creation due to political reasons. Diwan-i-am - a vast courtyard in which the emperor gave daily public audience, Diwan-i-khas - a large quadrangle where all the major functions of the palace took place, Pachisi Court, the emperor’s private living quarters, Jodha Bai’s palace, Mariam’s palace, Birbal’s palace, Hawa Mahal and Panch Mahal are some of the important buildings of this residential complex.  The Friday Mosque or Jumma Masjid and the exquisite tomb of Sheikh Salim Chisti are in the religious grounds set aside in a separate enclosure, adjacent to the secular buildings.

Continue drive to Agra

Agra is globally renowned as the city of the Taj Mahal. But this royal Mughal city has, in addition to the legendary Taj, many monuments that epitomise the high point of Mughal architecture. In the Mughal period, in the 16th and 17th centuries, Agra was the capital of India. It was here that the founder of the dynasty, Babar, laid out the first formal Persian garden on the banks of the river Yamuna. Here, Akbar, his grandson raised the towering ramparts of the great Red Fort. Within its walls, Jehangir built rose-red palaces, courts and gardens, and Shahajahan embellished it with marble mosques, palaces and pavilions of gem-inlaid white marble. The crowning glory of the city is obviously the Taj, a monument of love and imagination that represents India to the world.
 
Evening visit Agra Fort, built by three Mughal Emperors starting from Akbar the Great in 1565 AD, which is a masterpiece of design and construction. Within the fort are a number of exquisite buildings including the Moti Masjid, Jahangir's Palace, Khas Mahal and the Sheesh Mahal, Diwane-i-Am, Diwane-i-Khas and Musamman Burj, where Emperor Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal Emperor, died a prisoner.
Overnight in Agra

Day 6th - Agra – Mathura & Vrindavan – New Delhi
Early morning visit the world famous Taj Mahal. Taj Mahal - the inimitable poem in white marble is the finest architectural achievement of the Mughals. Built over a period of 22 years by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1630, for his Queen Mumtaz Mahal to enshrine her mortal remains, it is one of the Seven Modern Wonders of the World. (Taj Closed on Friday)

Drive to Delhi and en-route visit Mathura & Vrindavan

Mathura is known as the birth place of Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna was borne and Vrindavan is the place where Lord Krishna performed his first miracle. Vrindavan, is still a transcendental world, a place of Krishna's leela, (play), of deep eroticism and an archetypal connection to nature. The land of temples is attracts tourist who are keen of exploring.

Upon arrival guided sightseeing including Krishnajanmabhoomi, Dwarikadheesh Temple,. Later drive to Vrindavan, This quaint town is located at a distance of 15 km away from the Mathura city just near the Agra-Delhi national highway. This town is a highly sacred one as Lord Krishna is said to have spent his childhood days at this place. There are many temples that are dotted all over this town and the major places of tourist interest at this place are, Madan Mohan Temple, Banke-Bihari Temple, Govind Deo (Govindaji) Temple.

Continue drive to Delhi. Check-in to hotel. Overnight in New Delhi.

Day 7th – New Delhi- Kathmandu
After early breakfast transfer to New Delhi International airport to board flight to Kathmandu as per your flight schedule.
Kathmandu is the Capital City of Nepal. It is a gateway to Nepal and a refined culture that ranks among the highest in Asia.
On arrival at Kathmandu airport transfer to respective hotel. Evening half day temple tour. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 8th – Kathmandu
Full day sightseeing of Kathmandu.

Day 9th – Kathmandu – Pokhara
After breakfast transfer to Pokhara by surface, you will enjoy the 5 hrs scenic journey of Himalayan Mountains. On arrival check-in to respective hotels.

Pokhara is situated in the northwestern corner of the Pokhara Valley, which is a widening of the Seti Gandaki valley. The Seti River and its tributaries have dug impressive canyons into the valley floor, which are only visible from higher viewpoints or from the air. To the east of Pokhara is the municipality of Lekhnath, a recently established town in the valley.
Evening free at Leisure. Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 10th – Pokhara
After breakfast proceed for viewpoint of Pokhara in Sarangkot (1,600 m) and Thulakot (in Lekhnath a part of famous Royal Trek from where four lakes Phewa, Begnas, Khaste and Dipang and whole Annapurna range can be seen) to the west of the city. Paths and a road lead almost to the top of Sarangkot with an excellent view of the mountains and the city. On the summit of Sarankot there is a Buddhist stupa/monastery, which also attracts many tourists. Evening boating on Phewa Lake.
Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 11th Pokhara- Royal Chitwan National Park
After breakfast drive to Royal Chitwan national park.

Chitwan National Park is rich in flora and fauna, including one of the last populations of single-horned Indian Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) and the Bengal tiger Panthera tigris. The area was known as "Four Mile Forest" and a hunting reserve for big game hunting until 1951.
The park is now a popular destination for ecotourists and includes canoeing, elephant rides, and guided jungle walks. Adjacent to the National Park in the east is the Parsa Wildlife Reserve (49.900 ha) and further east the Bara Hunting Reserve (25.900 ha). In the south the Chitwan is contiguous with the Indian Valmiki Tiger Reserve. Evening nature walk. Overnight stay in Chitwan.

Day 12th – Royal Chitwan National park.
Morning & Evening park Safari. Overnight in Chitwan.


13th – Royal Chitwan Nationalpark to Kathmandu.
After early breakfast drive to Kathmandu to board connecting flight to Bhutan (Paro).
The Kingdom of Bhutan is a landlocked nation in South Asia, located at the eastern end of the Himalaya Mountains and is bordered to the south, east and west by the Republic of India and to the north by the People's Republic of China. Bhutan is separated from the nearby state of Nepal to the west by the Indian state of Sikkim, and from Bangladesh to the south by West Bengal. The Bhutanese call their country Druk Yul, which means "Land of the Thunder Dragon".

Evening city tour of Paro. Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 13th – Paro – Thimpu
Thimphu is the capital of Bhutan, and also the name of the surrounding valley and dzongkhag, the Thimphu District. With a population of 98,676 (2005 PHCB), it is also Bhutan's largest city. Thimphu is located at  / 27.4666667; / 2altitude of 2320m/7656ft. One interesting fact is that about this city is that it is the only world capital without any traffic lights.

Thimphu became a town in 1961 and grew as the capital of Bhutan. Before 1960, Thimphu was a small settlement but was developed by the King Jigme Dorje Wangchuk to replace the ancient capital of Punakha. Today the city sprawls across the western slopes of the Wang Chuu river valley, with several government offices located around Tashichoe dzong. After reaching in Thimphu, check-in to respective hotel. Evening explore culture of Bhutan. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 14th – Thimpu
After breakfast full day explore local places of thimphu,

BBS TOWER-SANJAYGANG - There is a wonderful view of Thimphu valley from this point

ZANGTHOPELRI LHAKHANG - This private chapel, built in the 1990s by Dasho Aku Tongmi, a musician who composed Bhutan's National Anthem
Tashichhodzong, "Fortress of the Glorious Religion", is the most stately and most impressive building in Bhutan. The dzong housed the original National Assembly and now houses the secretariat throne room and the offices of the King of Bhutan. 
NATIONAL LIBRARY - The National Library was established in 1967 to preserve many ancient Dzongkha and Tibetan texts.

SCHOOL OF ARTS AND CRAFTS - The School of Arts and Crafts, commonly known as painting school, offers an eight year course which provides instruction in many of Bhutan's traditional arts to boys throughout the country 
MEMORIAL CHORTEN - Right in the centre of Thimphu City stands this colorful Chorten (Stupa). This large Tibetan style chorten was built in 1974
MINI ZOO - Above the way to BBS tower, stop by to see a large fenced area
CHANGLIMITHANG STADIUM - The National Stadium occupies the field where in 1885, a battle took place that helped the supremacy of Ugyen Wangchuk, Bhutan's King. In the evening back to hotel. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 15th – Thimpu- Punakha
After breakfast drive to Punakha.

Punakha-is the administrative centre of Punakha dzongkhag, one of the 20 districts of Bhutan. Punakha was the capital of Bhutan and the seat of government until 1955, when the capital was moved to Thimphu. It is about 72 km away from Thimphu and it takes about 3 hours by car. It is located at an elevation of 1,200 metres above sea level and rice is grown as the main crop along the river valleys of two main rivers of Bhutan, the Pho Chu and Mo Chu. After arrival at Punakha check-in to hotel.

Post lunch proceed for local sightseeing of punakha, you can walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of Lama Drukpa Kunley, otherwise known as the divine mad monk who is one of Bhutan's favorite saints. It is a beautiful walk across rice paddies and through a small village. The temple can be visited and there is a tree outside which is said to have sprouted up after Drukpa Kunley sent a thunderbolt from an adjoining valley to kill some evil spirits who had gathered at the site.

You may also be able to visit Punakha Dzong, depending whether or not the monks are in residence, and if they permit you to enter their monastery. Situated at the confluence of the Mo (Female) and Pho (Male) rivers, the large fortress with its temples, courtyards, hall and towers overlooks the town and provides excellent views. Built in 1637 it served as the seat of the government until the mid 20th century. Over the centuries it has suffered damage from several fires and flooding but still remains one of the most impressive dzongs in Bhutan. Permission to enter the dzong is not usually granted to tourist when the monk body moves here from Thimpu in winter, but it is still worth viewing from the outside.

Overnight in Punakha.

Day 16th – Punakha- Thimpu.
After breakfast drive back to thimpu. Evening free at leisure. Overnight in Thimpu.

Day 17th Thimpu- Paro.
After breakfast drive to Paro. Evening explore the local market in paro. Overnight in Paro.

Day 18th Paro- New Delhi.
After breakfast at hotel you will be transfer to Paro Airport to board flight to New Delhi- India. On arrival at Delhi airport our company will meet you and transfer to hotel. After freshen change you will be visiting the most happening place Delhi Haat, where you will get know the culture of india, followed by traditional india food and folk dances. Overnight in New Delhi

Day 19th – New Delhi- Male (Maldives )
After breakfast at hotel transfer to New Delhi International airport to board flight to Maldives.
On arrival at Male International airport our representative will meet you and transfer to respective resorts/ hotel by speed boat.
Maldives is a tropical country with separated islands, which are separated by sea. And each island is surrounded by stunning white sandy beaches. Famous for its rare underwater beauty, it is a wonderful experience to visit and explore the beauty of these islands. Located southwest of Sri Lanka, on the equator, a group of 1,190 coral islands, forming an archipelago of 26 major atolls, Maldives stretch 820 kilometres north to south and 120 kilometres east to west. 202 of its islands are inhabited of which 87 are exclusive resort islands. Generally warm and humid with sun shining all year through. Average temperature is around 29 - 32 degrees Celsius..

Day 20th – Maldives
After breakfast, you may unwind on the snow-white sandy beach around the island for a suntan or just laze around the island, the choice is yours. Maldives has the most beautiful tropical scenery, graceful coconut palms leaning over crystal-clear lagoons, coral reefs promising great snorkelling and scuba diving, and lots of sunshine. White sandy beaches sparkling in the sun alongside crystal clear lagoons is the idyllic place to spend a perfect day. In the evening get ready to enjoy the fascinating sight of the unique Maldivian sunset. Overnight in Maldives.

Day 21st –Maldives
Today you are all set to go snorkelling and witness the breathtaking marine life for which Maldives is renowned. You may want to fill the gaps by enjoying various water sports activities or a wide range of indoor and outdoor games. The islands are fully equipped with everything you'll need, and if you've never dived before, the island provides facilities for experienced divers who can teach you. Dine over the special entertainment organized for you at the resort. This experience will surely give you an insight into the Maldivian art and culture. Overnight in Maldives.

Day 22nd – Maldives
Full day at leisure. Overnight in Maldives.

Day 23rd –Maldives- Colombo (Srilanka)
Assistance on arrival at Colombo Airport and transfer to respective hotel. Overnight in Colombo

Day 24th –Colombo
After breakfast proceed for local sightseeing.

Do a city tour of Colombo.  Colombo like many capital cities in developing countries is fast changing its face.  Almost overnight, skyscrapers arise from where old buildings once stood.  Yet in some parts, the old world charm is retained.  For example, there is a 100-year-old clock tower and several British built colonial buildings.  Other places of interest are the Pettah bazaar - where one can shop for bargain, a Hindu and a Buddhist temple, residential areas where you find the stately homes of the affluent, the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH)- an outright gift to Sri Lanka from the People's Republic of China.
Overnight stay In Colombo

Day 25th - Colombo - Bentota
After breakfast Transfer from Colombo to Bentota. Evening free at Leisure. Overnight stay in bentota.

Day 26th - Bentota/Galle/Kosgoda/Ambalangoda/Balapitiya/Bentota
After early breakfast full day excursion trip.
Transfer from Bentota to Galle.

Galle was once the chief port of Ceylon. It is still well known for hand-made lace. You can also visit the Galle Fort (spanning 90 acres) which was originally built by the Portuguese and later extended by the Dutch in 1663.  This is a World Heritage Site.
Transfer from Galle to Kosgoda.

Visit the Turtle hatchery in Kosgoda which is being operated by the Wild Life Protection Society of Sri Lanka.  Several species of turtles, especially the endangered hawksbill are protected here.  Most vulnerable of all are their eggs, which are left uncovered on beaches all around the coast.  The goodwill of Kosgoda area fishermen who bring these eggs gratis to the hatchery has led to the hatching and have released around 100,000 young turtles in only two years since the hatchery opened.

Transfer from Kosgoda to Ambalangoda
Visit Ambalangoda. Ambalangoda is a charming seaside town on the south-western coast.  It is the home of the mask carvers.  These colourful masks are used by dancers performing exorcistic rituals and folk dances.  There is also an old Dutch Church.

Transfer from Ambalangoda to Balapitiya.
Leave for Balapitiya and proceed by boats on which you will be taken for about three hours. Here you could see the villagers taking part in their day to day activities and some Islands. Clients will be served with a bottle of soft drink on board.
Transfer from Balapitiya to Bentota. Overnight stay in Bentota.
                                
Day 27th – Bentota.
Full day at leisure. Overnight stay in Bentota.
                          
Day 28th –Bentota- Colombo
After breakfast transfer from  Bentota to Colombo Airport board for your return journey with a lots of unforgettable memorie . End of tour services.