Melbourne-based specialist wholesaler Natural Focus Safaris have released their new India brochure for 2013/14, showcasing tours and accommodation across India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan.
“This fascinating destination continues to offer new infrastructure and development of its tourism sector with investment in new, world class hotels, higher standards of service, and improved transport options “ says NFS Sales & Marketing Manager, Praful Albuquerque.
A perfect example are the new “modern palaces” of luxury hotel group Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, and the 2013/14 NFS India brochure features three Leela palace hotels in Delhi, Chennai, on the lake in Udaipur, plus the Leela Goa, their beautiful beach resort hotel in South Goa. These grand and very opulent palace hotels provide a high standard of service, gracious living, lavish interiors, and the range of modern conveniences and state-of-the-art technology that today’s travellers have come to expect.
The Natural Focus Safaris program also features luxury river cruising on the Ganges on a replica colonial steamer, the RV Bengal Ganga. The cruise gives travellers the opportunity to explore the sacred river and rural India from the comfort of a boutique ship, which is known for its personal service, good food and knowledgeable guides. The 13 day “Slowly on the Ganges” departs from Kolkata and ends in Varanasi. The 7 day “Bengal Yatra” cruises from Kolkata to Jangipur and clients returns to Kolkata by express intercity train. Prices start from $6,215 per person twin share.
Also new this year are three lodges outside ChitwanNational Park in Nepal. For environmental reasons tourist lodges are no longer allowed within the national park, so Natural Focus Safaris is featuring a selection of camps and lodges just outside the park which offer wildlife viewing and elephant back safaris in the buffer zone around the park. Tharu Lodge, for example, offers 12 comfortable guest rooms with ensuite bathrooms and solar showers, a high standard of service, a central bar, lounge and dining room, locally grown organic produce, swimming pool and a range of excursions including elephant-back or jeep safaris, elephant interaction, river trips and cultural visits to local villages. A 3 day/2 night package starts from $1,076 per person twin share ex Khatmandu, including return flight to Bharatpur and transfers to the lodge.
NFS is very keen to promote the southern state of Kerala as an alternative to ever popular Rajasthan and the Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. “Kerala has a very different atmosphere from the north – very relaxed and tropical – but still has an ancient and fascinating history” says Praful Albuquerque. Becoming increasingly sought after by discerning travelers, Kerala is known for its tranquil backwaters with traditional houseboats, as well as Hindu temples, green paddy fields, tea, coffee and spice plantations, and the ancient art of ayurveda.
NFS offer a 12 day “Hidden Gems of Kerala” itinerary which explores the forts and colonial architecture of Kochi, travels through lush tea plantations and takes a safari in a national park filled with game. Accommodation is in intimate, boutique hideaways. The itinerary ends with two nights in an eco resort on a beautiful beach.
All Natural Focus Safaris tours are designed to be taken on a private basis and are tailored to suit clients requirements.
For more information please contact Natural Focus Safaris on (03) 9249 3777 or 1300 363 302. Brochures are available from Tifs at www.tifs.com.au