Vilasa Luxury Travel Brochure

UNLOCKING LUXURY

AT VILASA,
WE UNDERSTAND LUXURY

In this ancient land, the legacy of
luxury lives on.

It is a legacy that is quintessentially Indian; where the
guest is always royal, almost godlike; where lifetimes
have been spent in crafting the finest to serve the gods
and the kings; where nature is worshipped; where
worship is a philosophy that spins the gold within your
soul; your body is a temple and life is an ideal harmony
of leisure and service.

This heritage surrounds us daily and is reflected in
everything – the welcome by a richly turbaned durban,
the imposing monuments that dot every city and town
and countryside, the cuisine rich in ingredients and
preparation, the sparkle of gold in your hotel room, and
in the dresses of Indian men or women as they celebrate
life. It surrounds us in a million different ways, from the
courtesy of the common man to the grandeur of the
palaces, and it is waiting to be relished and enjoyed.

As a traveller to India and its neighbouring
countries with Vilasa, for a few days, you will be
part of this unique privilege.

Privileged Living

ROYAL DINING

EXPERIENCE THE LEGACY OF LUXURY

The last Nizam of Hyderabad used the "Jacob Diamond", the fifth largest diamond in the world,
as a humble paper weight! The diamond is of the size of an ostrich egg, weighs 184.97 carats
and is valued at over £5million. (It is now owned by the Government of India).

A GILDED WAY OF LIFE

This isn't just an isolated story. Extravagant luxury runs through Indian history, and it is best symbolized by
the use of gold and silver, crystals and precious stones, velvets and silks and brocades. The Udaipur family
was so fascinated with crystals that the chairs, thrones, tables and even the fans of their palace were studded
with them. The Royal Red Tent created for the Emperor Shah Jahan (now at Mehrangarh Fort), is made of silk,
velvet and gold; it has an intricate design of lotus flowers stitched in solid gold thread. One small example
among thousands. From ancient times, the Mahabharata and the Ramayana speak of the splendour of the

royal court and the jewels that adorned the gods and the nobles.
Till not so long ago, our grandmothers wore clothes made of fine and exotic silks brought down from silk
centres on the best breed of horses, and spun by magical weavers. Some of our great-grandfathers would
award us with gold guineas hidden in their gold-embroidered mojris. Even today, every little boy who sits

behind the bridegroom on a luxuriously decorated horse is dressed like a prince.
In the very different India of today, India is not so different. Amidst the magical chaos of modern India
where you might, at first glance, wonder where that legacy lies, you will be our guest who will discover

the wealth and encounter the incredible.
The gilded life is our inheritance. And it is this heritage we invite you to experience.

~

Samode Haveli

THE CULTURE OF KINGSHIP

During the Vilasa India experience, home will always be a royal residence:
an iconic palace, a lavish tent, a princely lodge, or an uber-modern take on luxury. You may

get addicted to opulence, to marbled corridors and gilded arches, to strolling in Mughal
gardens, to four-poster beds with brocade canopies, to fine art and finer dining. You may
imagine that when you return home after a round of golf, a ‘durban’ will always welcome you,
and a gracious retinue will ensure your comfort; the bath will be drawn, the spa will ease

your body, and artistes will perform for your pleasure.
Each meal will be a delight, exquisite dishes served up in silver platters by chefs who have

inherited these recipes from a legendary lineage.
The experiences will live with you forever, and when you begin to crave for them again,

come back home to Vilasa, to India.

Samode Palace

Many of the palace and fort hotels, royal residences Brijrama Palace, Varanasi | Raas, Devigarh | Raas,
and lodges that you will live in, have glorious, Jodhpur | Sardargarh, Rajsamand | Alila Fort,
ancient histories of kingdoms and principalities. Bishangarh | Mihirgarh, Rohet | Chattrasagar, Nimaj |
There are books dedicated to their beauty, their Suryagarh, Jaisalmer
stories, the art and architecture. Nothing however is
better than the experience of living in them, and You will also live in magnificent modern hotels
being served as if you were to the palace born. created in the regal style, drawing upon their
heritage and almost more magnificent than the
Your connoisseur's eye will catch the superb art and originals.
delicate details that surround you. There will be that The Imperial, New Delhi | Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra |
flash of expensive crystal, gold-rimmed plates, the Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur | Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur |
engraving on the walls, crystal chandeliers and a Oberoi Sukhvilas, Chandigarh | Falaknuma Palace,
regal service. By the end of your visit, the names will Hyderabad
conjure up exquisite visions – some of unimaginable
grandeur, some of an intimate and wondrous And then, there are the exclusive places which are
hospitality. well-kept secrets – boutique properties, where they
are waiting to take you on an Indian adventure, both
And while you are here, we could arrange a few outside in the wilderness, and inside you as they
private dinners with the erstwhile royal families. In tend to your mind, body and soul.
some cities, you can meet with the social and The Sarai at Toria | Koder House, Cochin | Malabar
business elite, and with artists and writers, designers House, Fort Cochin | Niramaya Retreat, Kovalam
and creators. Tell us what you desire. beach | Shreyas Retreat, Bangalore | Rainforest,
The Rambagh Palace, Jaipur | The RajMahal Palace, Athirapally | Jamtara Wildnerness Camp, Pench |
Jaipur | The Umaid Bhavan Palace, Jodhpur | The Taj Sujan Jawai Luxury camps, Pali | Fateh Safari Lodge,
Lake Palace, Udaipur | The Samode Palace, Samode | Kumbalgarh

Travel Back

IN TIME

EXPERIENCE THE LUXURY OF TRAIN TRAVEL

Indian royalty was fascinated by the railways. Princes vied with each other to show off their
ostentatious carriages. Maharaja Gaekwad of Vadodara not only gifted his son a toy train,
but he also installed a royal throne in his personal coach. The Nizam of Hyderabad's private

railway car was covered with thin strips of ivory and had solid gold hardware.
In 1936, the Gloucester Railway Carriage and Wagon Company built a luxury state coach
for Maharaja Yeshwant Rao Holkar of Indore. Probably the most luxurious railway carriage
ever built and the largest ever to be constructed in Britain at that time, the art deco interior

used sycamore wood, chrome, pink mirrors and an internal telephone system.
It also had air blown over ice to keep the carriage cool in the tropical climes!
The Maharaja of Gwalior, not to be outdone, installed a silver train that went around his

banquet table dispensing liquers and cigars to guests.

LUXURY ON WHEELS

“Nothing quite compares to travelling by train in India, an experience that engenders wonder,
nervous anticipation and heady exhilaration in equal measure.”

Some of the best travel stories and films about India are train stories. But before they became the
common man's transportation, the railways were the entitlement of royalty in India. They were new

and grand, and spelt power. The princes went on their state tours, their hunting trips and their
honeymoons in their personal railways. The salons had to be as lavish as their palaces and
as elegantly decorated.

The journeys were long and sometimes could take days; the preparations were lavish and attentive
to every detail, right from the carrying of special ingredients for food that would be cooked by chefs

who knew how to cater to the tastes of every member of the royal family. Royal outfits and
accessories for the journey and for stops along the way. Chess and other indoor games and sport
to occupy the royal party. Butlers and valets and handmaidens and washermen – a mini township
travelled to uphold the opulence of a princely way of life. The bands and drummers and red carpets

would be rolled out to see them off and receive them – it was a dazzling production.
The luxury trains you will travel by, are inspired by this heritage and are designed for royalty.

~

MAGNIFICENT TRAIN JOURNEYS

Travelling around India by luxury train is a unique and privileged experience.
Be prepared to be seen off, and received, at every station with pomp and show, red carpets
and bands, exotic drinks and flower garlands. Enjoy the panorama of the Indian landscape

from within the luxury of richly furnished private salons, elegant dining cars, conference
carriages and spas on wheels. Stop at quaint stations, see the sights at leisure, enjoy private
shopping tours or a spot of golf, maybe a spa at a hotel, and then return to the comfort of the

train and be pampered and indulged on board, where ‘khidmatgars’ – your personal
attendants – are at your beck and call. On board, it is a life of high teas and champagne

breakfasts and India evenings, as the lights of village after village twinkle past.

This is the true romance of travel. Make the most of it.

The Palace on Wheels royal salons of the past, the train blends
contemporary amenities and 5-star living with the
Delhi – Jaipur – Sawai Madhopur – Chittorgarh – elegance and nostalgia of quaintly exquisite interiors
Udaipur – Jaisalmer – Jodhpur – Bharatpur – Agra – of a bygone era.
Delhi
The Maharajas’ Express offers 4 fascinating journeys
The original luxury heritage train. Rulers of princely that focused on Rajasthan but now also cover
states of Rajputana and Gujarat, the Nizam of destinations in the Deccan and the glory of South
Hyderabad and the Viceroy of British India travelled India.
by these luxurious coaches. Refurbishments and
upgrades have retained the lavish charm and The Deccan Odyssey
cultural ethos of the royal past. The Train has 41
cabins, digital lockers, two bar lounges, Spa, running The 'Blue Limousine on Rolling Wheels' has 11
Wi-Fi, making the journey even more comfortable. luxuriously appointed coaches inspired by the
The 8-day trip includes a jungle safari, camel rides imperial carriages and different royal eras of
on sand dunes, a bird sanctuary, forts and palaces Maharashtra ruled by diverse dynasties. The six
and the Taj Mahal. itineraries on offer cover important destinations,
UNESCO World Heritage Sites, palaces and royal
The Maharajas’ Express residences, temples, excellent vineyards, beautiful
beaches, wildlife parks and the charming
'Flawless opulence' describes one the most backwaters. Onboard dining and entertainment is
expensive and luxurious trains in the world, that has of the highest quality.
redefined train travel since 2010. Inspired by the

TRAVEL BACK IN TIME

Awaken your

MIND, BODY, SOUL

EXPERIENCE THE LUXURY OF WELLBEING

Spirituality is a certain way of being …
So, if you cultivate your body, mind, emotions and energies to a certain level of maturity,
something else blossoms within you – that is what is spirituality. When your rationale is
immature, it doubts everything. When your rationale matures, it sees everything in a completely
different light. The spiritual process is a seeking. A spiritual seeker has realized that he does not

know. So he is seeking. Seeking is the nature of your existence.
You are the doorway to existence.
~ Sadguru Jaggi Vasudev ~

SEEKING SPIRITUALITY

For centuries, travellers have come to India seeking spiritual knowledge and salvation. This is a civilisation
whose heritage is spiritual at its core and the art of living a fulfilling life is expressed at length in its

scriptures and oral history. Centuries old Vedic wisdom is woven into the principles of Yoga, Meditation and
Ayurveda. The purpose is to ensure that what we identify most with – our mind, our body and our soul –
each vibrates at its finest frequency to connect and unite with the divine, with our pure potential.
Our well-being is critical in our quest. The practices, therapies and treatments that refine the individual,
combine with a powerful faith in the divine, beautifully illustrated in the magnificent places of worship and
rituals, a strong belief in the power of nature and benevolence of the planet, and a firm sense of dharma.
Into this cradle of spiritual seeking, Vilasa brings you gently and with care, for a holistic experience
that spells pure luxury and is a blessing to your mind, body and soul.

~

THE SPIRITUAL CONNECTION

Not just a mystical civilization, India is also a country increasingly recognized for its deep
knowledge and practices of wellness through an integration of body and mind. The science
and art of ayurveda (the language of life), of yoga (union with the divine), and meditation (to
achieve equilibirum and peace) appeal to almost everyone. Ayurveda is the science of life, an
ancient holistic and integrative system of healing which is believed to be the gift from God.

In Indian mythology, the origin of Ayurvedic medicine is attributed to Dhanvantari,
the physician of the gods.

With Vilasa, you will be pampered in the ayurvedic heritage resorts of Kerala in the midst of
tranquil surroundings, and you will be inspired by the holistic therapies you receive in the
grand resorts nestling at the foothill of the Himalayas.

The experiences will humble you and transform you.

Your journey will start off with visits to the Jama gained enlightenment, the uplifting solemnity of
Masjid mosque, the Bangla Sahib Gurudwara and the Harmandir Sahib at the Golden Temple in Amritsar,
Akshardham Temple in Delhi. There is a lot more that conversations on spirituality and faith.
follows: talks with temple priests, prayer ceremonies
conducted by head priests, the gifting of special Ananda in the Himalayas, Uttarakhand | Vivanta by
robes, private cruises on the river Ganges in Varanasi Taj, Bekal, Kerala | The Leela Raviz, Kovalam, Kerala |
to witness prayer ceremonies and the chanting of Carnoustie Ayurveda and Wellness Resort,
sacred hymns, the mesmerising and beautiful Ganga Alappuzha, Kerala | Purity, Lake Vembanad, Kerala |
aarti at Rishikesh, the 1000 pillared temples of Shreyas Retreat, Bangalore, Karnataka | Nirmaaya
Ranakpur, a visit to Sarnath where the Buddha Retreat, Kovalam, Kerala

Food for

THE SOUL

EXPERIENCE THE LUXURY OF FOOD

Dum cooking and dum biryani is quite the vogue around the world today.
Here's one fascinating version of how it came about. In 1784, a famine struck the Kingdom of
Awadh, so Nawab Asaf-ud-Daulah initiated a food-for-work programme, employing thousands
in the construction of the Bara Imambara. The workers were fed only once a day, and to provide
them all nutrition, large handis (cauldrons) were filled with rice, meat, vegetables and spices,
and sealed with a veil of dough. The food was left on slow fires to cook, and became a one-dish
meal. One day, the Nawab caught a whiff of the aromas emanating from a handi and wanted to

sample the dish. It was delicious. Refinements were made and the dum biryani was born,
fit for the royal nawabs.

THE ART & SCIENCE OF FOOD

The Sanskrit word for taste – rasa – is also the word for emotion. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian science of
food recognizes the continuum of food and states of mind. Beyond the science, food has always been an
art in Indian culture – serving the body and the palate in just the right way. Recipes are prized, often secret
and shared with a few, handed down as an inheritance. The one who prepares the food has held respectful
titles of 'Maharaj', 'Khansama', 'Purohit', and been honoured generously. Happy with a dish, royal patrons
would gift anything from gold coins to necklaces made of precious stones, and sometimes a special title.

Hours were spent in perfect preparation; cooks would hone their skills of presentation. They still do.
Every meal during a Vilasa journey will be a gourmet’s delight; exotic and exemplary dishes served up
by the finest chefs who are descendants of this tradition that placed high value on the art and science of
food, and whose purpose is your pleasure. And with the food, the wine. References to wine date back to
ancient and medieval texts. Chanakya's Arthashastra lists five kinds of alcohol with their ingredients.

The emperor, Chandragupta Maurya, served grape wine at his banquets.
We make sure that the finest beverages and wines from India and around the world

are served at your banquets.

~

CULINARY JOY

The cuisine map of India will amaze and delight you.
There are almost as many types of cuisines as there are states within India, and that's not
counting the Indo-international cuisines like Indo-Chinese and Indo-Malay. Dishes emerged
from the soil and its produce, from the science of Ayurveda, from temple food created for the
gods, and of course from the multiple influences that history brought to the country's borders.
As if it wasn't enough that in this land of spices the indigenous cuisines were rich in their
diversity and flavours, cross-pollination created a deeper, more luxurious array. You will taste
and discover Central Asian inspirations, as well as Asian, Portugese, Dutch, British and others.

So, its more than just 'curry' – its going to be a gastronomic adventure. Get ready for amazing
meals served by some of the best chefs in the country, served in style and with joy. Hours will

be spent so that you may experience the true flavours, and savour the 'rasa'.
Indian – the many regional cuisines of the North, South, East and West –
Mughlai, Oriental, European

So, bring us your best appetite.

You will dine in stunning royal banquet halls, in beverages will surprise you, cool you and warm
magnificent private dining rooms, in restaurants you, as the weather demands.
laden with stories and history, in the middle of
lakes, on top of mountains, in the heart of jungles, And then there are the new explorers, chefs
under starlight on the terraces of forts. You will experimenting with the uber-modern, with fusion,
have champagne breakfasts while gazing at the Taj to create new kinds of delights in hot and
Mahal, experience royal outdoor barbecues and happening restaurants. The new India is also
also the famous community kitchen – the langar – global, and you will find international cuisines
at the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Pure satvic food especially in the bigger cities. Thai, Japanese,
awaits you at exclusive wellness retreats, to Korean, French, Italian, Mexican – request for what
balance the rich gravies and delectable tandoori you like. Or try the micro-breweries, the pubs and
meals. The desserts will delight you – an unending bars.
variety, each one exploding with flavour. The

Discover

AN OLD LOVE

EXPERIENCE THE LUXURY OF ROMANCE

Sahir Ludhianvi, an Indian poet and film lyricist writing in Urdu in the 20th century, is popular
for his sensitive poetry and for being “the bard of the underdog”. He writes to his beloved to meet

him elsewhere and not at the Taj Mahal. An emperor, he says, has used his wealth and forever
made a mockery of the love of ordinary folk who cannot ever afford to create such a beautiful

representation of their love, the passion and depth of which is no less at all, he insists.
Meet me anywhere else, my beloved, he says, for although the tomb has been a symbol of
luxurious monarchy for years, there is no need for beautiful (but not famous) hearts to travel

to meet there. And thus, ironically, he acknowledges the unbearable beauty of the Taj.

ROMANCING LIKE THE ROYALS

A living example of eternal love, the Taj Mahal has enthralled the world since it was completed in 1631.
It was love at first sight when the fourth Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, then but a boy, caught a glimpse of

a girl in the marketplace. He was 14, and she, a Muslim Persian princess named Arjumand Banu Begum,
was 15. He pressed his father to marry her and they were married five years later. When he became

Emperor, he bestowed on her the title of Mumtaz Mahal – the 'Jewel of the Palace’. She travelled with him
everywhere, even on military campaigns. Giving birth to their 14th child, Mumtaz Mahal died, but while she

was still on her deathbed, Shah Jahan promised her that he would not not remarry and would build the
richest mausoleum over her grave. The heartbroken Emperor ordered court mourning for two years,
and then, taking inspiration from a detailed description of heaven in the Quran, began the work of
building the world's most beautiful monument in the memory of his beloved.
It took 22 years and the labour of 22,000 workers.
When he died, Shah Jahan's body was placed in a tomb next to the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal.
The incredible beauty of the Taj Mahal and the story of their love continues to mesmerize people.
Tap the eternal romantic within you through a Vilasa experience.

~

ROMANTIC EVENINGS

Indians are complete romantics. Our movies and songs, our poetry and art, our myths and
stories, even our gods and their tales are all about love. The tales of Heer Ranjha and Soni
Mahiwal are as legendary as Romeo and Juliet. Weddings are a festival of ceremonies and

rituals that transform virtual strangers into a couple on the brink of a romantic journey
together, a love story which will include whole families. The land itself with its amazing
natural beauty is a perfect backdrop for lovers. It isn't difficult to fall in love with your

companion when everything around you is idyllic and sensual.

And at Vilasa, we create just the right ambience at the destinations and resorts you visit,
to enjoy the perfect intimate moments together.

The romance of India becomes your romance.

The private terraces and opulent suites of palaces and forts, the open vistas and flower filled nooks and
corners, the middle of the desert, the quiet of the Himalayas – are all ideal spots to breathe romance into your
day. You could toast each other with champagne breakfasts or dance in the dunes to the love songs rendered
hauntingly by the local folk singers and musicians. Private dining is possible wherever you want – in the
middle of lakes, by the bush in jungles, at the base of Mt. Everest, almost under the waterfall, on an exclusive
beach, on a boat under the stars, in a royal salon. A Table for Two can be set up at special locations in select
settings.

The candles will be lit. The musicians await your word. The food will be delectable, the wine of your choice.
And the service will be invisible.

Taj Lake Palace guests can enjoy an exclusive dinner in middle of the river at Gangaur- the 150 years old Royal
boat, featured in James Bond movie Octopussy.

Tiger

IN YOUR BACKYARD

EXPERIENCE THE LUXURY OF WILDERNESS

“In the crisp cold of the winter morning with the grass all gold and the sun turning the Park
into a warm yellow, we waited quietly, not moving, and yet she came upon us before we knew it.

Insolent, even condescending, this beautiful golden animal stood barely 30 feet from the jeep,
staring us down. The guide whispered, ‘camera, madam, camera', but I was frozen, locked in a

gaze which was mesmerising, not sure whether I was scared or just completely over-awed.
And then she stretched her strong, lithe body and strode away, marking her territory,
daring anyone to cross the lines. Ranthambhore, 2002. The memory haunts me –
all I remember is gold and her eyes. And I go back again and again.”

TIGER, TIGER, BURNING BRIGHT

The tiger fascinates those who are called by the wild. They are big; they are beautiful. From being the
ultimate trophy for kings and princes, a trophy that showcased their royalty, machismo, power and wealth,

the tiger continues to be the pride of India – now, cared for, preserved, admired.
India has over 39 tiger reserves and many national parks that will allow you to see the big cat. Project Tiger
was set up in 1973 aimed to protect the Bengal Tiger in its natural habitat, to allay the very real fears of it
becoming extinct, and to preserve areas of biological importance as a natural heritage. Here, the tiger lives

with a magnificent diversity of animals, birds and plant life.
The tiger isn't the only animal in the wilds of India, and the wilds of a India are a place of great beauty
calling out to the adventurous. Respond to that call, and know that you will move into the jungles like the

maharajas of yore – with a retinue that travels along to cater to your every need and whim.
With Vilasa, you too will feel like the lord of all you survey.

~

CALL OF THE WILD

The jungles of India have called out to lovers of nature for centuries. Sher Khan, Bhalu the
bear, Kaa the snake, Akela, the Indian wolf, Hathi, the elephant, Bagheera, the black panther –

all very real for every child and adult who read or saw the Jungle Book. Stories, legends and
myths are abundant. Vilasa takes you to wildlife sanctuaries where these stories come true.

Tropical forests with an exuberant diversity of trees, plants and shrubs; waterfalls, rivers,
and streams, cliffs and ravines – the beauty is breathtaking.

Exclusive jungle safaris by jeep or elephant take you deep into the sanctuaries with expert
trackers and guides, and a retinue that follows to care for your every creature comfort in style.
Tigers, lions, deer, sloth bears, hyenas, leopards, crocodiles, rhinos, lions, sambars are common

names – there are many more animals you have never seen before and may never have
heard of. The exotic bird life can enrapture you for hours.

Get ready to experience the Jungle Book.

You will stay in luxury, of course. In tented camps Recommended Parks:
fit for kings; in lodges and resorts that are as exotic The Kaziranga Tiger Reserve, Assam | The
as their surroundings. There will be massages and Ranthambhore National Park, Rajasthan | Pench
spas, or a spell at the gym or pool to relax you National Park, Madhya Pradesh | Kanha National Park,
after the long days. Or perhaps a warm bonfire and Madhya Pradesh | Sasan Gir, home of the Asiatic Lion,
a folk dance by the tribes who live around the Gujarat | Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand | Tadoba
jungles. And you can sip champagne at sundown, Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra | Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
and wine and dine as royalty should, when it (Keoladeo Ghana National Park), Bharatpur | Periyar
strides out to survey the land and all it holds. The Wildlife Sancturary, Thekkady, Kerala | Bandhavgarh
very nature that humbles you, also empowers you. National Park, Madhya Pradesh

The list is exhaustive and bespoke trips can be
designed. They usually revolve around the wildlife
that is calling out to you and the resort that makes
it worth every moment.

Finding

A NEW PATH

EXPERIENCE THE LUXURY OF CHALLENGE

“You hadn’t quite imagined the expansive river beaches, glistening gold, the moonlit evening meal
and serene quiet by this holy river – it's all rather lovely. Next morning, the guides and experts
get you ready and into the raft with all the safety rules. You bravely get off in the middle and
float on your back with the sun in your eyes, and then get on again, warmed and happy.
And then, out of nowhere, come the rapids with their fun names and their wicked, almost cruel
antics. The Golf Course, Three Blind Mice, Cross Fire, Roller Coaster, Marine Drive – now you
know what different grades mean. You scream and hang on, and then suddenly you are
‘man overboard’ and everyone is telling you to be calm in the water in the middle of a crazy
rapid. And you are. Cool but excited, the adrenaline rushing through you, waiting till they pull
you back on the raft. Now you know the thrill. And you are ready to do it again. And again.
And you think you’ve tamed the stream. But you haven’t.”

THE RIVER BECKONS

“Life is like the river, sometimes it sweeps you gently along, and sometimes the rapids come out of nowhere.”
~ Emma Smith ~

Adventure in India is everywhere, beckoning you from its rivers, its mountain ranges, its desert.
It pushes you to physical, mental, emotional limits, taking your body, mind and indeed, your soul, on a
journey which is surrounded always by an expansive topography and spectacular natural environment.
Adventure is entwined into Indian lives. On your raft, or canoe or as you sail down the rivers or camp

beside them, you will encounter pilgrims – regular citizens – paying their respect to the holy rivers.
As you climb into the Himalayas, you will meet many who are braving the terrain and the weather to pray

at the source and at places of pilgrimage. Nature in all its forms is worshipped here and the gods live
where the air is rare, the mountains high, the trail tortuous, the waters clear and icy. Temples will be on
impossible hilltops where you trek, in forgotten outposts of the stark and exhilarating desert where you

are on a safari; Buddhist monasteries seem precariously balanced on steep cliffs you want to climb;
barefoot and barely clothed ascetics emerge from caves in the high reaches of mountains, or from

the innards of forests you are exploring.

So, even as Vilasa uplifts your adventurous journey, you won’t always be alone.
Encounters with local ‘adventurers’ will animate your experience.

~

ADVENTURE TRAILS

Some say India itself is an adventure. But the vast and varied landscapes of the country
present the perfect opportunities for some true blue adventure. The wildlife parks and the

jungles are exciting and beyond that, there is more. The key to making the most of the
adventure trails is to be well informed, have the best guides and experts, superior equipment,
and your creature comforts looked after so that you can return always to luxurious living and
rest your body and mind that is surging with the thrill of pushing yourself to sport with nature.

Vilasa has that key, and we are going to unlock some thrilling adventure in India.
Just arrive fit and ready.

Ski or Snowboard in Gulmarg in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas. Pristine beauty, a charming resort, and
in winter, some of the finest freshly powdered slopes in Asia.

River rafting in the Ganges near Rishikesh. Tame the stream and return to the exotic resort of Ananda in the
Mountains and place yourself in the hands of expert masseurs and ayurvedic healers. You could go rock
climbing at Ananda too.

Roam the dunes and desert at the Serai close to the medieval city of Jaisalmer. Experience the luxurious desert
camp, modelled on the caravan sites of yore, spend evenings under the starlit desert sky, serenaded by
ancient melodies of the Manganiyar tribesmen whose songs have haunted these dunes for centuries. Or stay
at Mihirgarh – 'the Fort of the Sun', rising out of the dunes.

Ride off into the wildnerness on horse safaris from Udaipur, Jaipur and Rohet. Be ready to have the butler and
staff serve you champagne and exotic meals wherever you wish to stop.

Take a colourful camel safari across Rajasthan's Thar desert.

Trek in the mountains in Himachal, Uttarakhand or northern West Bengal, or in Nepal.

Go Mountaineering – the Himalayan peaks beckon.

Spot a snow leopard in the Himalayas.

Explore the moonscape of Ladakh – drive up and acclimatize yourself.

Cycle around Bhutan.

The possibilities are endless. Tell us what you want to do.

Driftin’ on a

SLOW BOAT

EXPERIENCE THE LUXURY OF STILLNESS

“You move ahead through the Kerala backwaters in the still but cool morning air of coastal
India's touch-and-go 'winter', letting the mirrored coconut trees be your constant companions.
The only sound you're hearing is the slicing of the smooth water … A couple is rowing in the
direction of the post office – maybe sending a loan application for their latest tourism venture to
the state capital at Trivandrum? Along the way, did they make a pitstop at the local Alleppey
(Alappuzha) market for some fresh fish? Or at the BSNL office for availing high-speed internet?
On the way back, will they surprise their kid with a visit to the school? Will they all row to the

church in their family canoe for the Sunday morning mass?”
~ Sandeepa Chetan ~

LIFE ON THE KERALA BACKWATERS

Straw huts, thatched roofs and a jackfruit tree in the courtyard. Cormorants and egrets and other exotic
birds swooping down to the water in search of fish food, waterways with barely any bridges, children
waiting for school boats not school buses, prawn farming. An intricate network of lakes and canals,
a self-supporting eco-system with a bountiful aquatic, plant and bird life, rice paddies and villages
fringed by palm trees.
A quaint dichotomy where a charming culture thrives around the lagoons – vibrant and noisy with the

living of life, right on the edges of the stillness created by the waterways. The boats drift along lazily under
a vast expanse of sky, gently carrying their wares from one village or town to another, casting their fishing

nets quietly and waiting, caressed by the sun or watching the rain, anchoring where they will.
It's easy livin'. Life on the backwaters.
Breathtakingly beautiful.

And with Vilasa, incredibly luxurious.

~

BACKWATER CRUISES

The leisurely cruises along the backwaters of Kerala go through the towns of Kottayam, Allepy,
Quilon, Kumarakom and Kuttanad, and many backwater villages. You watch them go by from

the comfort of your deck chair as you move gently along. Or stop and alight to explore this
new and quaint world. You can eat what you catch, if you wish, or enjoy the incredible cuisine

of the region. Anchor for the night in a safe haven under the stars.

A trip to the backwaters is also an opportunity to explore a culture influenced by a host of
seafarers – Arabs, Dutch, Chinese, British and Portuguese. Stay at the iconic Coconut Lagoon

Resort at Kumarakom. Visit the Vembanad Bird Sanctuary at the lake, or after the cruise,
take a trip up to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, or to the spice and coffee plantations in the hills.
See the city of Kochi, catch a Mohiniattam dance performance – a dance of the enchantress,

and definitely enjoy the traditional massages with herbal oils and ancient recipes,
that Kerala is famous for.

We're going to redefine cruising for you.

The Kettuvallam
The houseboats, or kettuvallams, that you will live and travel in are large, slow moving and rather exotic
barges converted into elegant floating homes and used for leisure trips. They are a reworked version of
kettuvallams of olden times. The original kettuvallams, said to have been first built in southwestern India
around 3000 BCE, were used to carry a cargo of rice, spices and passengers, and navigated the backwater
canals for centuries.

The kettuvallam is held together with coir knots. Not a single nail is used to construct the body of the boat.
The hull is made from long planks of jack-wood fastened together with coir rope and coconut
fibres fitted in between. This is then coated with a caustic black resin made
from boiled cashew kernels. Many kettuvallams continue to be
manouvered with hand operated bamboo poles, preserving
the blue-green waters of the canals. With careful
maintenance, a kettuvallam can last for
generations.

The rice-boat experience holds within it
history and culture and craft. For the
locals, it continues to achieve the
purpose of pure functional
transportation – as constant as the
backwaters.

Whispers of

THE OCEAN

EXPERIENCE THE LUXURY OF INDULGENCE

Karwar's scenic coast may have inspired Rabindranath Tagore to write his first poem,
but the world can't stop singing praises of Gokarna's pristine beaches. Once a quiet pilgrim town

that sprung up around the Atma Lingeshwara Temple, it became a hippie haven ever since
someone discovered a beach shaped like a giant Om. Its remoteness and inaccessibility only
added to its mystique. A short coastal hike from the main beach at Gokarna leads to Kudle and a
30-minute walk farther south, leads to Om beach. A rocky promontory jutting out from the shore
divides the beach into two crescents. Walk past shacks and fishing boats bobbing on the waves
to the hill on the far side for a view of the Om beach. The trail winds through a small forest patch

along a narrow path to smaller beaches like Half Moon and Paradise.

BEACH TALES

A coastline that is 7,516 kms long from west to south to east India, and touches all three – the Arabian Sea,
the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal – is bound to have brilliant beaches. While they all offer the
irresistible lure of sun, sand and sea, the sheer diversity of the cultures that abound around the coast
change each experience into a unique one. Where else could you visit beaches in an erstwhile hippie
haven, ride a camel, or even an elephant, across the sand as the sun sets over an orange sea, watch a

vibrant festival on the beaches teeming with people eager to carry their idols into the water, have a yoga
session by the sea perfectly in sync with the rising sun, enjoy a creole seafood meal which is Indian, French,

Portuguese, Tamilian … you don't quite know what, except that it's a charming combination.
Beach holidays in India and its neighbouring countries are anything but ordinary. From golden to white
sands, waters that reflect myriad shades of blue and green, a spell-binding aquatic life, gentle and extreme

water sports, quaint coastal cultures and impossibly tranquil resorts that transform you.
Vilasa presents you the restorative powers of India's beaches with exclusive privacy

and lavish comfort.

~

SEA, SUN AND SAND

Seaside and beach holidays mean different things to different people. You may want to wind
up an intense journey into an ancient and exciting heritage with a few days of soaking in the
sun and enjoying gentle massages caressed by the sea breeze, to get you empowered for real
life back home. Or you may be a beach-hopper, keen to explore the diversity of beaches and
cultures even as you capture the sights of surrounding areas. Or, you may be passionate about
aquatic life and coral reefs and sea sport – snorkeling, diving, sailing. At Vilasa, we recognize
the power of ‘bespoke,’ and we’ll plan it like you want it. We just want to make sure it works

for you perfectly – much as nature intended.

And don't worry about the sarongs, sunblock and slippers. We have you covered.

Goa Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Say 'beach' in India and most people say 'Goa'. The 'beach capital of India' with pristine and exotic
Most of the hippies, who discovered the beaches beaches, the islands are also a delight for the
of Goa, are gone, 'but peace, love – and more – water-sport enthusiast. 57 kms north-east of Port
remain.' Each beach in Goa has a different buzz Blair, Havelock Island is probably the most
and culture; the shorefront shacks serve up exquisite destination with crystal clear, turquoise-
exciting seafood and feni – the homegrown liquor blue waters lapping at the shore of Radhanagar
made of cashew or coconut. Night markets, Beach and Vijaynagar Beach. Laze around in the
Portuguese villas, whitewashed churches and a sun, surf the waves, or scuba dive to explore the
scenic rural interior create the luxury of the laid rich marine life and corals. The Barefoot Hotel
back life. Nightclubs and bars attract the young resort awaits you, and then if you are a die-hard
and carefree. Impressive resorts jostle with fishing beach seeker, the Andamans has at least 10 other
villages along the beach fronts; they have grand beaches to explore on various islands.
designs, luxurious rooms and suites, landscaped
gardens, private golf courses, signature spas and Tamil Nadu
clubs, and water sports. Tranquebar is special in more ways than one. It is
India's only ozone-rich beach. It is a Dutch colonial
Honeymoon here, spend a romantic getaway, heritage town on the Coromandel Coast. When the
come with friends to celebrate milestones, or to Danes acquired a small coastal village from the
get away far from the concrete crowds. Thanjavur Nayaks, Tharangambadi or 'Land of the
The Leela Palace, Cavelossim, Goa Dancing Waves' became 'Trankebar', and then
Grand Hyatt, Bambolim, Goa Tranquebar. The erstwhile British Collector's
The Taj Exotica, Salcette, Goa … and others summer residence has been renovated as
Neemrana's stunning Bungalow on the Beach.
Kerala Watch catamarans bob on the surf at sunrise from
In ‘God's own country’, the palm-fringed and your verandah while staying in Christianus
serene beaches of Kerala rejuvenate you. The Septimus, Princess Louise, Countess Moltke and
resorts, many of them fashioned in the delightful other period rooms named after the Danish ships
style of old Kerala wooden architecture, will almost that docked at Tranquebar. Located between the
always have excellent ayurveda spas where they crumbling Masilamani Nathar Temple on the left
massage and bathe you, treat you with herbs and and the stunning Dansborg Fort to the right, the
oils and care for you with amazing gentleness, to bungalow is the perfect base for heritage walks
bring your body and soul back to its original around the coastal town.
purity. Soak in the tranquil sea spirit, gaze at the
lighthouses, drive around the exotic Kerala While in Tamil Nadu, you may want to visit the
countryside and the charming backwaters with coastal town of Pondicherry with its charming
private chauffeurs and return to be pampered at French influences and the Auroville Ashram.
the resorts. You could also check out the city of
Kochi, go up to beautiful Munnar in the hills, or to
the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary when you are done
with the beaches.
Vivanta by Taj, Green Cove, Kovalam
The Lalit Resort & Spa, Bekal
Marari Beach Resort
Carnousti Resorts, Mararikulam … and more

The Lure of

THE TEE

EXPERIENCE THE LUXURY OF SPORT

“In one of the minutes dated 8th February, 1876, it is recorded that the winner of the Royal
Blackheath Medal was awarded a cup valued Rs. 25/- (41 cents at today's exchange rate!) and
a golf set priced at Rs. 9/- (15 cents). The annual expenses for running the Club were Rs. 720/-
(US$ 12/-) as salaries for staff for twelve months, Rs. 100/- (US$ 1.70) for sundry expenses and
the estimated stock of liquor at the closing of accounts was Rs. 200/- (US$ 3.30) which must have

represented quite an extensive stock of liquor in the cellar.”
~The Royal Calcutta Golf Club ~

GOLF IN INDIA

The Royal Calcutta Golf Club was established in 1829. It is not only the oldest golf club in India,
but is also the second oldest British golf club in the world, outside of Great Britain.

It was meant exclusively for the use of gentlemen, and ladies were very reluctantly admitted in 1886.
In 1911, King George V and Queen Mary conferred upon it the title of 'Royal' to commemorate
their visit to Calcutta. The Club also has a Bowling Green section, set up in the early 19th century.

RCGC continues to be an exciting par 72, 18-hole, championship course for golfers, and is the venue
for many prestigious tournaments. We invite you to play at the RCGC and experience a
modern course and club with a decidedly colonial hangover!
Part of a colonial heritage, Golf began as an elite sport in India, and still continues to be.

While Polo (both horse polo and elephant polo) was the sport of the royals, a modern royalty
is playing more golf. A growing number of professionals play the India tour and
some of the international tours as well.
Let’s take you on an exclusive golfing tour of India or build in some
invitational games into your itinerary.

~

SIGNATURE GOLF COURSES

'Leave your home course at home' because there are some amazing (and challenging) golf
courses you will discover in the subcontinent. Of international standard and designed by
names that include Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Nick Faldo, Phil Ryan and Greg Norman,

many of them are championship venues in breathtaking locales.

A golf trip to India isn't just about golf. Each city you travel to brings with it the magnificent
hotels, the fine dining experiences, the heritage of India, the warmth and hospitality of its
people. Bespoke itineraries will include what is of interest to you.

You can make this even more exciting by travelling with your regular fourball!

The Delhi Golf Club, New Delhi factor. The course remains closed from December
One of the most prestigious golf clubs in India, to April because of snow.
with elite and restricted membership, the Delhi
Golf Club is popular with golfers from all over the Kaziranga Golf Resort, Jorhat
world. The championship course hosts the Indian Peaceful and serence, barely 75 km away from the
Open and other Asian and European Tour events. world famous Kaziranga National Park which is a
Established in the 1930s, the 6,972 yards, par 72, UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kaziranga Golf
18-hole Lodhi course was redesigned by Peter Course is a challenging 18-hole, par 71 course set
Thompson in 1976-77 and was chosen to host the up in the middle of a colonial tea garden and
first ever golf tournament at the Asian Games in developed on a 150 acre site. Designed by Ranjit
1982. Both the Lodhi course and the 9-hole Nanda, a well known Indian golf course architect
Peacock are an oasis in the heart of New Delhi, and representative of the Gary Player Design
with 200 trees and dotted with historical tombs Company, the course is set with colonial style
and monuments, all creating a sanctuary for over cottages and a unique heritage bungalow known
300 species of birds. as 'Burra Sahib's Bungalow' that is now the Club
House. An idyllic setting for adventurous golfers.
The ITC Classic Golf & Country Club, Manesar
(NCR – National Capital Region) These are a sample. Other equally superior Golf
The 27-hole championship golf course was the first Courses – many of them Championship venues –
signature South Asian course designed by the which you would like to play at while you visit
legendary 'Golden Bear' Jack Nicklaus. Built on the these cities, are:
a 300-acre expanse at the foothills of picturesque Kalahar Blues & Greens Golf Resort, Ahmedabad |
Aravalli hills, the Classic Golf & Country Club is a Club Kensville Golf Resort, Ahmedabad | Jaypee
perfect getaway for golfers. The par 72, 18-hole, Greens Golf & Spa Resort, Greater Noida (NCR) |
2,114 yard course describes itself as a 'thinking DLF Golf & Country Club, Gurgaon (NCR) |
man's golfing dream'. The Clubhouse boasts of Eagleton Golf Resort, Bangalore | Prestige Golfshire
finest grills and premium spirits and now, you can Club, Bangalore | KGA Golf Course, Bangalore |
also stay at the uber-luxurious ITC Grand Bharat Chandigarh Golf Club, Chandigarh | Oxford Golf
hotel, an experience not easily forgotten. Resort, Pune | Poona Golf Club, Pune | The Bombay
Presidency Golf Club (BPGC), Mumbai | The
Gulmarg Golf Course, Gulmarg Willingdon Golf Club, Mumbai | The CIAL Golf &
A 6-hole golf course was made in 1890-91 by Sir Country Club, Cochin | Aamby Valley Golf Club,
Neville Chamberlain, KCB, at an altitude of 2,650 m. Aamby Valley, Lonavala | Ooty Golf Club, Ooty |
The highest golf course in the world, it became the The Leela Palace Golf Course, Goa | Gokarna Golf
golfing Mecca in India for the British by the early Resort, Kathmandu, Nepal | Royal Colombo Golf
20th century and has attracted golfers ever since. Club, Colombo, Sri Lanka | Nuwara Eliya Golf Club,
The cool weather, the gently undulating slopes Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka | Courses in the north east
'carpeted with a natural mossy turf, a lush green of India – in Shillong, Gauhati, Digboi, Darjeeling
bowl covered with a variety of alpine flowers and
criss-crossed by snow fed streams and rivulets' –
this is a course in an irresistible setting. The course
was redesigned by Peter Thompson and is now a
6,700 yard, par 72, 18-hole course, which also
boasts of India's longest hole, a par five, 610 yards
– which plays even longer because of the uphill

Taking Service

TO NEW HEIGHTS

EXPERIENCE THE LUXURY OF COMFORT

Ancient Indian tales have many references to air travel – starting with Garuda, the legendary
bird and mount of Lord Vishnu. There are mythological stories that mention mechanical airships

of Greek manufacture, and how the Greeks refused to share the secret of how they were made.
Air travel had spiritual connotations. 'Riding the Garuda' implied a journey towards God.

And if you were capable of effectively constructing your vehicle to reach the skies, then not only
would you need to construct it well, but use it wisely. Air travel was a luxury reserved for
the wise, not for the rich.

REACH FOR THE SKIES

“India's royalty always travelled in style. Sculptural representations of large royal processions of chariots
and elephants from the days of Emperor Ashoka suggest that in detail. Prasenajit of Kosala, for instance,

is shown on a chariot drawn by four richly caparisoned horses with attendants and riders,
while Ajatshatru of Magadha is depicted sitting on a state elephant with others accompanying the leader

controlled by female mahouts.”
~ Ashoka in ancient India ~

The Mughal Emperors and the Maharajas across India had entire townships carry their grandeur along with
them, richly decorated tents not just for sleeping, but also for durbars and banquets. The majesty and
extreme comfort held great significance. The British followed the tradition and moved entire capitals in

summer and winter with elegance and pomp. The mode of transport was important – from palanquins to
horses and elephants and carriages, and then to the envied motorcars and railway salons,
and finally the private jets and planes.
Experience personalised journeys with Vilasa.

~

LUXURY IN THE AIR…
AND ON THE GROUND

How you go is as big a deal as where you go.
Not just first or business class. You get to choose from a fleet of luxurious airplanes, light
jets, mid size jets, heavy jets, helicopters, VIP aircrafts with different seating capacities, that
fly across airports in India and neighbouring countries. The Vilasa team of aviation experts

respects the importance of pure luxury in the air and offers the best options. You can
charter special planes to witness a sunrise view of Mt. Everest in Kathmandu, or a special

chopper to ride to the base camp of Everest for an exclusive breakfast arranged at a
vantage point with a view to the mountain in the background.

Wheels up or wheels down, it’s always classy.

On ground, limousines with private chauffeurs will be at your disposal and for sightseeing as well as travel
between cities. They will receive you and see you off at airports and train stations. In selected cities, the
transfers and sightseeing can be done by exclusive vintage cars. The highways in India increasingly boast good
roads but when you go off the beaten track, be ready for the track!

The trains are magnificent, the backwater kettuvallams are deluxe boats, and you can decide that you want
your private chauffeurs for some exotic explorations by quaint local transport. See the bazaars by rickshaw –
either the auto rickshaws or the cycle rickshaws. You could take a tonga ride – the local canopied wheels
pulled by a horse, or a camel ride in the desert towns. Elephant rides are another way to go. We'll just make
sure that each one is a splendid experience.

And of course, there are the Walking Tours like the one in Old Delhi where you also experience the famous
gourmet spots.

How you go in India, is going to be as exciting and as enthralling as where you go.

OUR AFFILIATIONS

ABOUT VILASA

Vilasa Luxury Travel is a bespoke travel brand from Minar Group, one of India’s leading
destination management companies that has served travellers to India for over a quarter
of a century. Winner of several tourism awards, the company’s core values have
steadfastly remained focused on the highest standards of quality and exceptional
service. The extensive Vilasa team has deep knowledge and experience of India and its
neighbouring countries, and an enviable partnership with the finest hotels and service
providers across the sub-continent. Vilasa offers tour operators the gift of thoughtfully
designed and curated experiences for their travel clients; tours and itineraries that can be
customized and personalized to every last detail. Its luxury service all the way. Private
and exclusive, drawing from our regal heritage and created for a modern royalty, Vilasa
journeys stretch beyond the conventional and explore little-known treasures. All served
up in inimitable style to a select clientele, who are ready for a romance with India.

Call or leave us a message and let us create for you some of the finest travel experiences.

NATIONAL TODAY’S INDIA ~ EXCELLENCE IN CSR GLOBAL STAR WORLD TRAVEL
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2006 | 2009 | 2011 2014 | 2018 2014 HOSPITALITY
2012 | 2013 | 2014 AWARD 2018

2016 2016

VILASA LUXURY TRAVEL

(A Minar Group Brand)

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Connaught Place, New Delhi - 110001, India
tel: +91 11 43368700 | email: [email protected]

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