(Westport, CT, October 18, 2011) "“ Geringer Global Travel is offering a fully customizable and authentic trip to India, combining local family home stays with accommodations at charming bed and breakfasts and intimate boutique properties in Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Mandawa, Bikaner, Jodhpur, and Udaipur. In a home away from home, guests will enjoy the warm hospitality of Indian families, immerse themselves in local knowledge, indulge in rich, home cooked regional cuisines, and visit India's most fascinating sights. This suggested 11-day itinerary, priced at $1,759 per person, double, is valid October 1, 2011 – March 31, 2012.*

Day 1-3: Delhi – Agra
The journey will begin with a home stay at Thikana, an intimate family property nestled in the quiet and relaxing neighborhood of Gulmohar Park in South Delhi. The hosts, Atul and Sheetal Bhalla, create a comfortable environment to make your stay as memorable as possible. On day two, guests will explore the sights of Delhi including the Red Fort, Qutub Minar and Chandni Chowk. On day three, guests will drive to Agra and check into Col. Lamba's Indian home stay, hosted by a retired army officer from the Punjab Regiment. From this property guests can see the glories of the Taj Mahal very clearly. In the afternoon, sightseeing will include a visit to the Agra Fort and a sunset visit to the Taj Mahal.

Day 4-6: Jaipur – Mandawa
The next morning, guests will visit the Imperial 'ghost city' of Fatehpur Sikri en route to Jaipur. Upon arrival, guests will check into Dera Mandawa, a charming boutique property located in the heart of Jaipur. This historic estate built in 1890 is hosted by Thakur Durga Sing, a modern traditionalist delighted to share his activities of rain water harvesting with his guests. On day five, guests will embark on a full day city tour of Jaipur visiting the Amber Fort, City Palace and Jantar Mantar. On day six, guests will head to Mandawa, an ancient feudal settlement in Rajasthan and home of a royal castle. Decorated with frescos of famous merchants from the region, Mandawa is a veritable open gallery. Guests will stay at Mandawa Haveli, a majestic architectural marvel combining old world charm with the finest of present day luxury.

 

Day 7-8: Bikaner – Jodhpur
After breakfast guests will drive to Bikaner in north Rajasthan, a city dotted with scores of sand dunes and known for having the best camel riding in the world. After checking into the Vijay Guest House, guests will explore Junagarh Fort and the Jain Temples of Bhandeshwar and Sandeshwar. On day eight, guests will drive to Johdpur to be welcomed at Mohan Niwas, a home stay built by the father in law who was part of the Maharajah family of Johdpur. Sightseeing in Jodhpur includes the Meherangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada.

Day 9-10: Udaipur
En route to Udaipur, guests will visit the Ranakpur Jain Temples before checking into Devra, a privately owned five acre estate in the tranquil Aravali Hills with views of an 800-year old temple. Host, Major Durga Das, a former officer of the Indian elite Armoured Corps and of the premier nobles, is delightful company for bird watching or walks around the estate. His wife, Jyoti, is a fantastic cook and prepares beautiful meals for guests. In the evening guests will enjoy an enchanting boat cruise on Lake Pichola. On Day 10, sightseeing will include Jagdish Temple and a visit to the City Palace, one of the largest palaces in the world.

Day 11: Udaipur "“ Delhi
This day is free to relax or explore on your own until your flight to Delhi.

This suggested itinerary starts at $1,759 per person, double occupancy and includes: accommodations for 10 nights on twin sharing basis; daily buffet breakfast; all domestic transportation; rickshaw ride in Old Delhi; elephant ride in Jaipur; boat ride in Udaipur; entrance fees as per itinerary; English speaking guide; all current applicable taxes.

 

*Prices valid October 1, 2011 – March 31, 2012. Blackout Dates: December 20, 2011 "“ January 5, 2012.