Chicago "“ March 2007 "“ The luxury travel experience with Greaves Tours reaches soaring heights with The Taj and The Himalayas itinerary, a new addition this season to the company's fascinating portfolio of unforgettable vacations in India, Nepal, Bhutan and the Indian Ocean.

The 10-day / eight-night tour includes two nights at the Oberoi Hotel in Delhi, two at the Oberoi Amarvilas in Agra, and four in Shimla at Wildflower Hall Hotel, once the home of Lord Kitchener of Khartoum. A magnet for the British Raj, this mountain retreat in the Himalayas provided a cool oasis and an elegant escape from summer's pervasive heat. Travel between the featured destinations is aboard The Oberoi Group's private King Air aircraft.

Delhi and Agra
A full day in Delhi allows time to explore the wide boulevards of Lutyens' New Delhi and the dramatically different cityscape of Old Delhi, defined by winding narrow streets and ancient monuments. In Agra, the highlights are an evening visit to the Taj Mahal"”always dazzling at sunset"”and a full day for discovering the fort and Itmad-ud-Daulah, plus accommodations at the city's most luxurious hotel, very close to the Taj Mahal.

Wildflower and its Environs
Arrival at Wildflower Hall Hotel in Shimla marks a dramatic turning point in the itinerary, now offering the exhilaration of crisp mountain air high in the Himalayas, and staggeringly beautiful views across mountain ranges and densely forested valleys. Totally renovated, this grand property combines historic grandeur with lavish 21st-century comfort and amenities. Only children aged 12 or over may stay at Wildflower.

A morning tour of Shimla provides a fascinating introduction to the glamorous summer capital of the British Raj. Another morning activity is a nature walk on the Wild Strawberry Trail, which circles the Mahasu ridge through the forest reserve, about an hour's drive from Wildflower. The route offers panoramic views of the region and intriguing insight into its flora and fauna. More magnificent views are enjoyed from The Peak, an old colonial bungalow on a hilltop, where a picnic lunch is followed by leisure time to wander the terraced lawns and fragrant apple orchards.

Leaving Wildflower, the itinerary takes guests back to Delhi aboard The Oberoi Group's King Air for a final day at leisure with the Oberoi Hotel as a comfortable and convenient base. Late evening transfers are organized for flights back to North American gateways.

Timing and Rates
The Taj and The Himalayas tour is timed to suit individual preferences, with best dates between mid-April and September 30. The tour is priced from US $9,520.00 per person, based on double occupancy, with a supplement of US $1,463 for singles.

Included are:
Luxury accommodations for eight nights:
– Two nights at the Oberoi Hotel in Delhi
– Two nights at the Oberoi Amarvilas in Agra
– Four nights at Oberoi's Wildflower Hall Hotel in Shimla
– A day room at the Oberoi Hotel in Delhi, prior to departure
Breakfast daily
All activities on the itinerary
Picnic lunch at The Peak
Air transportation within India on Oberoi's private aircraft
All transfers between airports and hotels in India
Private air-conditioned car with driver
English-speaking guides for sightseeing
Porterage at hotels and airports
All hotel taxes

Not included are: international round-trip airfare; Indian visa fee (currently US $65.00 per person, subject to change); meals, except where noted on the itinerary; personal items, e.g. telephone, laundry; gratuities; travel insurance; and any changes travelers choose to make during the trip. Reservations may be made through agents or with Greaves.

About Greaves Tours
Greaves Tours sets the standard for customized luxury vacations in India, Nepal, Bhutan and the Indian Ocean. Exclusive focus on these destinations, coupled with in-depth knowledge of their complex cultures, ensures an unforgettable journey through one of the world's oldest civilizations. Greaves Tours may be explored at www.greavesindia.com.

India at ITKT