INDIA SPECIALIST COX & KINGS HAS FURTHER EXPANDED ITS TAILOR-MADE PROGRAMME TO THE SUBCONTINENT FOR 2009.

The world�s longest established tour operator, Cox & Kings, has launched its new brochure for the Indian Subcontinent for 2009, featuring escorted group tours and tailor-made private holidays throughout India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan and the Maldives.

Celebrating its 250th anniversary in 2008, the company now organises travel to six continents and more than 80 countries. Indian Experience continues to be the best selling tour across the entire range. This introductory tour is fantastic value for money, starting at just �1,245 per person, and encompasses the highlights of northern India and the �Golden Triangle� in just seven nights.

Alongside Indian Experience and other classic group tours, new tailor-made ideas have been developed to cater for repeat visitors. Cox & Kings� India Product Manager, Balaji Kandasamy, says �there is very little we cannot organise in India. Cox & Kings has offices throughout the country, and fantastic support on the ground. Whether clients want to travel from Keylong to Leh along one of the world�s most dramatic stretches of road; walk through remote villages in Kumaon; visit tea plantations in southern India; learn to cook traditional Keralan curries; or tour the World Heritage Sites of Madhya Pradesh, Cox & Kings can tailor-make first-class, personalised arrangements.�

Looking forward to 2009, Cox & Kings predicts continued growth in the tailor-made sector and particular interest in Himalayan countries of Nepal, Bangladesh and Bhutan. The lesser-known northern Indian states of Assam, Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh are also tipped for steady growth. Kandasamy says: �These remote states are ideal for repeat visitors, and particularly those interested in walking opportunities, stunning scenery and authentic rural life. It is fascinating to see the culture change as you travel closer to the bordering Himalayan countries, and see how elements of their unique culture and lifestyle have bled over the border into India.�

The safari circuit is another area of growth for Cox & Kings. For 2009, the company�s Safari in Style itinerary will have a whole brochure page, showcasing three of the country�s finest reserves: Pench, Kanha and Bandhavgarh. With two new properties from the Taj � CC Africa partnership scheduled to open later this year, it will be possible to complete a full wildlife circuit in complete style. Cox & Kings works closely with Travel Operators For Tigers (TOFT), donating �5 per person for every night spent in a tiger reserve.

**** WORLD TRAVELLER PLUS COMPLIMENTARY UPGRADE **** Cox & Kings is offering complimentary flight upgrades from World Traveller to World Traveller Plus with British Airways for bookings made before 23 September on the following tours: Exclusive India, An Indian Summer, Regal India, Grand Tour of South India. World Traveller Plus is a quiet cabin, with a maximum of six rows of seats, offering a 38� seat pitch and 20% more personal space than World Traveller. The company is also offering a �100 discount on upgrades to Club Class, and a �150 discount on First upgrades. ************************************************************** NEW: Golden Chariot (Page 37): Starting from cosmopolitan Bangalore, the brand new luxurious Golden Chariot train traverses through Mysore, Srirangapatna, the scenic Nagarhole National Park, the historical sites around Belur, the World Heritage sites around Hampi and Pattadakal, and finally the Golden Beaches of Goa, before returning to Bangalore. The 10-night itinerary costs from �2,795 per person including flights with British Airways, accommodation with breakfast (full board on the train), transfers and all excursions.

NEW: A Walk Through The Himalayan Foothills (Page 38): this trek through the picturesque meadows and valleys allows visitors to experience the rich culture of the region and observe local religious ceremonies while taking in the local architecture of the area's temples. The highlight is the stay at Kalmatia Sangam, a charming 19th century retreat that is tucked among the terraced wheat fields of Kumaon. The 12-night private journey costs from �2,195 per person including flights with Jet Airways, accommodation with breakfast (full board during the seven-day trek), transfers and all excursions.

NEW: Journey Through Bangladesh (Page 50): Bangladesh is one of the hidden gems of Asia, offering a fusion of religious cultures, grand architecture and rural landscapes. This journey starts in the vibrant city of Dhaka and travels through the rural heartlands of the country to the colourful pagodas and miles of golden sandy beaches at Cox�s Bazar. The 10-night private journey costs from �1,995 per person including flights with Jet Airways, accommodation with breakfast, transfers and all excursions on a private basis. NEW: Bhutan in Style (page 51): Discover Bhutan�s spectacular sights and intriguing culture on this exciting journey that takes you through serene monasteries, ancient dzongs, isolated farms and hamlets. This luxury tour features Bhutan�s most exceptional hotels and has been designed to reveal the highlights of this fascinating mountain kingdom as it undergoes an exciting political and cultural transformation. The 13-night private journey costs from �6,195 per person including flights with Jet Airways, full board accommodation (B&B in Kathmandu), transfers and all excursions.

NEW: Malabar Trails (page 62): Steeped in historical legacy, North Malabar was the creative centre for much of Kerala�s folk music and colourful art. Little explored by tourists, this part of Kerala is characterised by miles of sandy beaches, picturesque rainforests, tranquil fishing villages, ancient ruins, exotic wildlife, mountains, streams, brooks and rivers. The 10-night private journey costs from �2,595 per person including flights with Emirates, accommodation with most meals, transfers and excursions.

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If you would like to request a copy of Cox & Kings' new India 2009 brochure, please contact:

Laura Smith on 020 7873 5006 or email laura.smith@coxandkings.co.uk