REDISCOVER THE SPICE ROUTE

04-26-2008

A Customized Culinary Journey with Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces Showcases the Essence of South Indian Cuisine

MUMBAI, April 24, 2008 - Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces introduces "Rediscover the Spice Route," a culinary expedition showcasing the diverse cuisine of four South Indian states - Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. From authentic uttapams (savory pancakes) to mouth-watering rasam (tamarind, pepper or tomato infused soup) to aromatic Hyderabadi biryani (aromatic rice cooked with meat) to chettinand chicken (spicy aromatic chicken), this journey through the senses will treat guests to the richness of South Indian cuisine.

Through "Rediscover the Spice Route" journeys, Taj Hotels presents a range of activities and excursions to experience the real taste of India - from street food, palace gourmet cuisine, community feasts, plantation walks, great Indian bazaars, to the heritage restaurants at the Taj Hotels. Chefs at the Taj Hotels will also arrange special cooking demonstrations.

The journey begins in Kerala, whose cuisine is known for its use of coconuts, seafood, and spices. The day begins with an authentic breakfast at Taj Malabar, followed by a walk through the bustling spice market. Guests can indulge in a hearty Moplah dinner on a boat ride on the enchanting backwaters at Taj Garden Retreat Kumarakom. The day ends with a drive down to scenic Kovalam for a barbeque on the beach to watch the sun set at Taj Green Cove Resort.

During the Tamil Nadu leg of the journey, guests can go on fascinating food trips on the streets of Chennai at famous outlets like Murugan Idly (idly is steamed rice cake embellished with chutneys) with its signature Khusboo Idly. Guests can have an Anglo Indian lunch at the Verandah Restaurant and live the life of an English Nabob at the colonial Taj Connemara. Southern Spice, Taj Coromandel's signature restaurant, features authentic south Indian cuisine. At the Bay View Restaurant on the beachfront of Fisherman's Cove, guests can breakfast on traditional idiappams (string hoppers).

In Karnataka, guests will experience the robust cuisine of the Kodavas, coastal cuisine of the Mangalorean fisher folk and the sacred fare of the Brahmins. Guests can stay at the Taj West End, one of Bangalore's finest hotels, and have a meal at Karavalli, the legendary restaurant at Gateway Hotel on Residency Road, that offers pure and spirited flavors of traditional home-style recipes of the west coast of India. Taj Garden Retreat in Chikmagalur showcases the local flavors in its cuisine. A trip to Karnataka will also include excursions to coffee and spice plantations.

In Andhra Pradesh, there are two distinct flavors - the rich Hyderabadi and the Royal Nizami cuisines, which encompasses Mughlai dishes like the biryani and the traditional Andhra fare, a delectable blend of chillies and spices along with varieties of pickles. "Rediscover the Spice Route" will take guests from the heart of the empire to the bustling capital city, Hyderabad. After an Andhra breakfast of Pessarittu Dosas (lentil pancakes) at Taj Krishna, guests can discover Hyderabad, its museums and shopping bazaars.

Each journey is customizable and can be combined with Taj Holiday offers. A tour of all four states starts at $4,000 per couple for a nine-night program; $7,010 per couple for a 16-night program. Rates include all meals, accommodations, and taxes. Available now through September 2008.

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About Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces
Established in 1903, Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is one of Asia's largest and finest groups of hotels, comprising 61 hotels in 42 locations across India with an additional 16 international hotels in the Maldives, Mauritius, Malaysia, Australia, UK, USA, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Africa, and the Middle East. From world-renowned landmarks to modern business hotels, idyllic beach resorts to authentic Rajput palaces, each Taj hotel offers an unrivaled fusion of warm Indian hospitality, world-class service and modern luxury. The Taj, a symbol of Indian hospitality, has recently completed the centenary of its landmark hotel, The Taj Mahal Palace and Tower, Mumbai. Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is part of the Tata Group, India's premier business house.

For more information: www.tajhotels.com

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