Opulent five star hotels, iconic landmarks, fine dining, luxury river cruising and immersive cultural sightseeing experiences are the magic ingredients that make up APT's outstanding new collection of India holidays.

Featuring four itineraries ranging from 14 to 20 days in length, APT proudly showcases all the icons of India - from the Taj Mahal and the 'Pink City' of Jaipur in the north, to the backwaters of Kerala down south and the spiritual hub of Varanasi. Travelling in small group of no more than 28 people, APT guests will gain a much deeper understanding as to very essence of this vast sub continent, and how its colour, history, people and culture combine to create a destination that stirs the soul.

The program includes the highlights of the Golden Triangle, Delhi, Agra and Jaipur with extensions to Kerala and Varanasi. Included on three itineraries is a seven-night Lower Ganges river cruise which takes guests off the beaten track to explore the rarely travelled region of West Bengal.

Sailing aboard the brand new RV Ganges Voyager on a return trip from Kolkata to Murshidabad, guests will enjoy cruise highlights including the opportunity to visit Mother Theresa's house, stop at local villages where they can participate in a game of cricket, go shopping at shore side bazaars and explore various temples.  

The new ship features well appointed suites, all with palatial private ensuites, flat-screen televisions, on-demand movie systems and French balconies. It also features a sun deck, grand dining room, stylish lounge, spa and gym and is designed to accommodate just 56 guests.

The hotels in APT's India program are all opulent, high-end, luxurious properties and include two of Asia's leading award-winning resorts: The Oberoi Amaravilas in Agra, which features rich architecture, palatial suites and a view of the Taj Mahal from every single room; and The Imperial Hotel in Delhi, best known for its contemporary colonial style and highly acclaimed restaurant.  
 

Sightseeing highlights include APT Signature Experiences such as the chance to participate in the royal sport of Elephant Polo in Jaipur; exploring the lanes of Old Delhi by rickshaw; a dazzling Bollywood extravaganza at Delhi's Kingdom of Dreams; a traditional Kathakali dance performance in Kochi; and a special Aarti evening prayer cruise in Varanasi.

All meals are included, with APT guests dining at the highly sought after restaurants in their luxury hotels.

Due to APT's all-inclusive price structure, as well as meals, also covered in the cost of every India holiday are the services of an APT Tour Director, all flights within India, tipping, airport transfers, sightseeing, porterage, complimentary drinks with meals on the Lower Ganges river cruise, all sightseeing and accommodation.

For example on the 14-day Spirit of India luxury land journey and river cruise guests spend three nights in Delhi, a night in Agra and two nights in Jaipur before embarking on their seven night river cruise. The trip is priced from $9,695 per person, twin share.

A 'Companion Fly Free, including taxes' offer is available when two people book an Indian holiday on the same tour, providing a saving up to $1,600 per couple. Valid on all bookings until 31 May 2014 or until sold out. Terms and conditions apply and offer is subject to availability.

For further information call APT on 1300 196 420, visit aptouring.com.au or see your local travel agent.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Zoe Palmer
PR Executive, APT
T. 03 8526 2152
M. 0407 601392
E. zoe.palmer@aptouring.com.au