Tuesday, June 2, 2026

Shilong - Elephant Fall - Cherrapunji - Dawki - Mawlynnong Village - Laitlum Canyons - Shilong - Guwahati Airport

 



RouteShilong - Elephant Fall - Cherrapunji - Shilong - Dawki - Mawlynnong Village - Shillong - Laitlum Canyons - Shilong - Guwahati Airport


Day 01: 03 Pm - Shilong Arrival - Transfer to Hotel & Stay
at 03 pm Pickup from Shilong Airport - Transfer to Hotel, Evening free & Night stay

Day 02: Shillong - Elephant Fall - Cherrapunji - Shilong
After early breakfast proceed to Cherrapunjee (Also Known as Sohra). Enjoy a pleasant drive to see waterfalls & gorges. Cherrapunjee - The wettest place on Earth offers roaring waterfalls, limestone caves, living root bridges, & galore of water & adventure activities. Witness the gorgeous Seven Sisters falls & visit the Mawsmai cave & Thangkharang Park. Return to Shillong. Enroute visit at Shillong Peak. Overnight in Shillong.

Day 03: Shillong - Dawki - Mawlynnong Village - Shillong
After Breakfast drive to Dawki - along the indo bangladesh Border. In Dawki do boating in Umngot River. Later drive to Mawlynnong Village - The cleanest Village in Asia. Here you can see a single decker root bridge, the balancing rock, the skyview is a vantage point & a popular attraction of Mawlynnong Village. Back to shillong & Stay

Day 04: Shillong - Laitlum Canyons - Shilong
After Breakfast drive to Laitlum Canyons - A new Tourist Destination at Shillong in Meghalaya. Later Half Day city tour of Shillong. Shillong - The 'Gleneagle of the East' lies in the center of a plateau surrounded by Khasi hills. The gorgeous city offers amazing tourist spots. The Butterfly Museum is a storehouse of the finest and rarest species of butterflies and moths. The State Museum is a display of the lifestyle and heritage of the people of Meghalaya. Afternoon Drive to Guwahati & Stay

Day 05: 01 Pm - Guwahati Airport Drop (Transfer Only)
After Breakfast drop at Guwahati Airport. (Tour End)

Bagdogra - Gangtok - Lachen - Gurudongmar Lake – Chopta Valley Excursion – Lachung - Yumthang Excursion – Gangtok - NJP / Bagdogra


Route: Bagdogra - Gangtok - Lachen - Gurudongmar Lake – Chopta Valley  Excursion – Lachung - Yumthang Excursion  – Gangtok - NJP / Bagdogra

DAY 1 : New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) / Bagdogra Airport (IXB) – Gangtok (130 km / 4 Hours Drive Approximately)

Your trip commences with arrival at the railway station or Bagdogra airport. Meet our representative who will escort you on a scenic drive to Gangtok. The capital city Gangtok caters to the needs of all. Be it people seeking tranquillity or those who are looking for some adventure. Set at a height of 5480 feet, it is the most visited destination in India.

Embark on a road trip where you will be surrounded by varieties of rhododendron, orchids and colourfully delicate butterflies. Upon reaching the hotel, check in and relax. The rest of the day will be at your will to explore.

MG Marg
MG Marg is where you can take a stroll in the evening. It is a famous marketplace and you can shop for souvenirs and local artefacts. Make sure to add the religious paintings called Thangkas, the Nepalese dresses, Tibetan carpets, stuff made from bamboo and cane, alpine cheese, hand-woven jackets and also some electronics.

Return back to the hotel and enjoy spending the over night in the comfort of the hotel room in Gangtok.

DAY 2 : Gangtok (Tsomgo Lake Excursion and Baba Mandir)

The second day of this Gangtok Lachen Lachung holiday package commences with a healthy breakfast at the hotel, followed by some sightseeing expedition in Gangtok. Visits to the Tsomgo Lake and Baba Harbhajan Mandir will be made today.

The Tsomgo Lake
The Tsomgo Lake is considered to be a sacred lake by the locals in Gangtok. A small temple situated at its bank may be the reason behind that. A 3-hour picturesque drive will take you to an altitude of 12,400 feet where the glacial lake is set to grab your eyeballs. The lake’s surface also reflects diverse colours with a change in the seasons.

Baba Harbhajan Mandir
Baba Harbhajan Mandir holds a significant historical relevance. It is a memorial dedicated to an Indian soldier who passed away by drowning in a nearby stream. It is believed that his soul still wanders and protects the Nathula border that connects India to China. It is set at a height of 13,200 and the views from atop are sure to leave you enthralled. You can also take a ride on colourfully ornamented yaks and ponies here.

Optional Tour to Nathula Pass / Additional Charges / Special Permit
An optional tour to Nathula Pass can also be arranged for if you wish. You can soak in the serene beauty and walk down the staircase that leads to the fenced Indo-China border.

Return back to the hotel in Gangtok for a comfortable overnight stay.

DAY 3 : Gangtok – Lachen (125 Km / 6 Hours Approximately)

Have a stomach-filling breakfast and start your day early by checking out from the hotel in Gangtok and proceeding towards Lachen.

It is a valley that runs deep and is bounded by massive yet humbling snow-capped mountains. It is a peaceful hamlet with a mere population. Your drive to this small town will take you through hot springs and meadows. Try spotting rear birds such as the wood snipe and hoary-throated barwing.

On arrival, check in at the hotel and head out for sightseeing.

Lepcha Village
Peep into the rich cultural heritage of Sikkim and meet with the indigenous people at the Lepcha Village. You can get insights into the way of life of rural settings in the state. It is also a trekking destination and you can undertake hiking and angling here.

Return to the hotel for a comfortable overnight stay in Lachen.

DAY 4 : Lachen – Gurudongmar Lake – Chopta Valley  Excursion – Lachung

After relishing an early morning breakfast, check out from the hotel in Lachen and head out for sightseeing.

Gurudongmar Lake
A 3 hours drive will take you to a valley that is perched at an altitude of 11, 800 feet. The lake set here is considered to be holy by Sikhs, Buddhists and Hindus and is one of the highest lakes in the world. It is very close to the Tibet border and is encircled all around the year by snow-covered peaks.

Cold desert
This is where the Himalayan rain-shadow zone merges with the Tibetan plateau. The mountains reach an altitude of about 20,000 to 25,000 feet and are painted with beautiful tones of colours.

After sightseeing in Lachen, continue your journey towards Lachung. It is a region that is fully covered with Rhododendron forest. Visit the Chopta Valley and Thangu Valley on your way.

Chopta valley
Known for its varying hues, it is a very picturesque destination that is positioned at an altitude of 13200 feet. Several water sports are also enjoyed by the river every year by adventurous tourists.

Thangu Valley
Thangu is a small and cosy village that is decorated with vibrant alpine flowers. A lot of travellers flock every year for the spectacular hiking trails in the valley. It is an ideal place for nature lovers and photo enthusiasts.

Proceed with the drive and reach Lachung. On arrival, check in at the hotel and visit the Lachung Monastery.

The Lachung Monastery
It is an ancient Nyingma Buddhist gompa which is set at an astonishing height of 9,600 feet. The monastery hosts a famous mask dance each year and if you are around, you must behold its mesmerising sights.

Spent the over night at the hotel in Lachung.

DAY 5 : Lachung – Yumthang Excursion  – Gangtok

Yumthang Valley, which stands for ‘The Valley of Flowers’ is your destination for today. After head-starting your day with a toothsome breakfast meal, check out from the hotel and drive to reach
11,800 feet above sea level to this valley. You may visit the famous hot spring that is popular owing to its curative properties for skin diseases.

Having basked in the valley’s beauty, leave for Gangtok. On your way, cover a few sightseeing spots.

Singhik and Mangan
These are two scenic towns you will cross on your way to Gangtok. If the weather is suitable and the sky is clear, you can enjoy the stunning views of Himalayan ranges. You may catch glimpses of the peaks of Kanchenjunga, Pandim, Simvo, Kabru, Jopuno and Mt. Siniolchu.

Optional Tour to Zero Point / Additional Charges / Special Permit
An optional tour to the Zero Point can be arranged for on request. Set at an altitude of 15,300 feet, it is the last outpost of civilization. The international border of China lies a few meters ahead and hence civilians are restricted to go any further.

After sightseeing, continue your journey to Gangtok. On arrival, check in at the hotel and spend the night in the comfort of the cosy room.

DAY 6 : Gangtok – New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) / Bagdogra Airport (IXB) (130km / 4 Hours Drive Approximately)

The last day of your Sikkim holiday package has now arrived. After devouring on some healthy breakfast, finish with all the necessary check out procedures. Transfers to the railway station, bus station or airport will be arranged as per your travel plan and you will commence on your onward journey home. We hope you and your mates were satisfied with our assistance and will let us serve you again.

Kashmir Tour with Gulmarg Gondola Ride Tickets Booking

 Kashmir Exclusive Tour: 06 Nights / 07 Days 


Phase 1: Gulmarg Alpine Escape (02 Nights)

20 June, 2026: Day 01: Arrival & Transit to the Meadow of Gold
Morning:
Arrive at Srinagar International Airport. Meet your driver and head straight to Gulmarg (approximately a 2-hour drive).
Afternoon: Check into your hotel. Take a light walk around the outer circle road to acclimatize to the higher altitude.
Evening: Visit the historic St. Mary’s Church and the beautiful Maharani Temple located on a small hillock.
Night: Overnight stay at your hotel in Gulmarg. 

21 June, 2026: Day 2: High-Altitude Adventure & Gondola Ride
Morning: Head early to the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world.
Phase 1 (Kungdoor): Enjoy views of the pine forests.
Phase 2 (Apharwat Peak): Touch the snow line and enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas. 
Afternoon: Return to the meadow for lunch. Spend the afternoon trying activities like pony riding, golfing at the Gulmarg Golf Course, or visiting the Strawberry Valley. 
Night: Overnight stay at your hotel in Gulmarg. 
Phase 2: Pahalgam Valley Retreat (03 Nights)
22 June, 2026: Day 03: Gulmarg to Pahalgam via Saffron Fields
Morning: Check out after breakfast and drive to Pahalgam (approx. 4 to 5 hours).
En Route Excursions: Stop at the famous Pampore Saffron Fields to buy authentic Kashmiri saffron. Drive past the historic Awantipora Ruins, an ancient 9th-century temple site.
Afternoon: Arrive in Pahalgam ("Valley of Shepherds") and check into your hotel alongside the rushing Lidder River.
Evening: Stroll through the local Pahalgam market or relax by the river banks.
Night: Overnight stay at your hotel in Pahalgam.

23 June, 2026: Day 04: Exploration of the Iconic Valleys
Morning: Hire a local union cab to visit the three most famous valley points:
Betaab Valley: Named after the Bollywood movie Betaab, perfect for picnics and river views.
Chandanwari: The starting point of the holy Amarnath Yatra, known for its snow bridges. 
Afternoon: Head to Aru Valley, a scenic village known for its lush meadows, misty peaks, and peaceful atmosphere. 
Night: Overnight stay at your hotel in Pahalgam.

24 June, 2026: Day 05: Baisaran Valley Excursion (Mini-Switzerland) 
Morning:
Take a pony ride or enjoy a moderate trek up to Baisaran Valley. It is widely known as "Mini-Switzerland" due to its dense pine forests and sprawling green lawns.
Afternoon: Visit the serene Mamleshwar Temple, a Lord Shiva temple dating back to the 12th century.
Evening: Spend a peaceful evening at the Lidder Amusement Park or enjoy cafe-hopping along the river.
Night: Overnight stay at your hotel in Pahalgam. 

Phase 3: Srinagar Heritage & Lakes (01 Night)
25 June, 2026: Day 6: Return to Srinagar & Mughal Splendour
Morning: Check out early from Pahalgam and drive back to Srinagar (approx. 2.5 hours). [1, 2]
Afternoon: Check into your hotel or luxury Houseboat. Begin your sightseeing of the famous Mughal Gardens:
Nishat Bagh (Garden of Bliss)
Shalimar Bagh (Abode of Love)
Chashme Shahi (The Royal Spring)
Late Afternoon: Experience a relaxing 1-hour Shikara Ride on Dal Lake. Explore the floating markets and witness a beautiful sunset over the water.
Night: Overnight stay in a Srinagar Houseboat or Hotel.
26 June, 2026: Day 7: Local Heritage & Departure
Morning: Visit the ancient Shankaracharya Temple atop the Gopadari Hill for a breathtaking, bird's-eye view of the entire Srinagar city. 
Afternoon: Quick souvenir shopping at Lal Chowk for Kashmiri shawls, carpets, and dry fruits. Drive to Srinagar International Airport for your flight back home.

Travel Tips for Your Trip
    • Gondola Bookings: Always book your Gulmarg Gondola tickets in advance, as slots sell out quickly.
    • Local Transport Rules: Outside vehicles are not allowed for sightseeing inside Pahalgam and Gulmarg. You will need to hire local green cabs/ponies registered with the local unions.
    • Packing Essentials: Pack heavy woollens for Gulmarg (especially for Apharwat Peak) and light jackets/sweaters for Pahalgam and Srinagar evenings.
Exclusions

ü  Any personal nature items like Laundry, bar bills, table bills, camera fee, Entrance fee for monuments, tips or any other item.

ü  Any Overland Journey which is not mentioned in the Itinerary.

ü  Horse Ride Aru ,Chandanwari ,Betaab Valley, Gondola cable car.

ü  Cost incidental to any change in the itinerary/ stay on account of flight cancellation due to bad weather, ill health, roadblocks and/or any factors beyond control.

ü  Lunch or any other Meals.

ü  Extra tour other than above mention

 

Note: As per Taxi-Union Restriction, our vehicle wouldn’t be allowed to do Sightseeing of Pahalgam & Gulmarg, Sonmarg; Guests have to take union vehicles on direct payment basis.

 

Transport Service doesn’t include:

ü  Baisaran, Kashmir, Dnow & Dabyab Valley at Pahalgam (Pony/Horse)

ü  Tulian Lake at Pahalgam (By Pony/Horse)

ü  Aru Valley, Betaab Valley & Chandanwari in Pahalgam (Union Vehicle)

ü  Gondola Ride Tickets up to First Phase at Gulmarg

ü  Gondola Ride Tickets both First & Second Phase at Gulmarg.

ü  Thajiwas Glacier at Sonmarg (Pony/Horse)

ü  During the time of Heavy snowfall 4X4 Jeep required to reach Gulmarg from Sonmarg, Supplement Cost

Varanasi - Gaya - Allahabad - Chitrakoot - Ayodya - Lucknow - Naimisharanya Tour Programme

                  

Varanasi - Gaya - Allahabad - Chitrakoot - Ayodya - Lucknow - Naimisharanya 


Route Itinerary

Varanasi – Gaya – Bodhgaya – Allahabad – Chitrakoot – Ayodhya – Lucknow - Naimisaranya – Lucknow 

Places covered      
 

Varanasi – Gaya – Bodhgaya – Allahabad – Chitrakoot – Ayodhya – Naimisharanya

Duration   

06 Nights/07 Days

Starts & ends at

Starts at Varanasi & Ends at Lucknow


Day 01: Arrival at Varanasi
Arrive at Varanasi and transfer to the hotel. Afternoon proceed on a half day temple tour of Varanasi visiting Bharat Mata (Mother India) Mandir, Durga, Tulsi Manas, Sankat Mochan Temple and the new Vishwanath Temple. Followed by Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat and overnight at hotel.

Day 02: Varanasi to Bodhgaya (250 km)
Early morning proceed on a boat tour on River Ganges visiting all the bathing ghats followed by walk through the narrow lanes visiting the Golden Temple (old Vishwanath Temple) and Annapurna Devi Temple. In case you wish to perform some rituals/pinda dana for your ancestors you may perform this morning. Return to hotel for breakfast. After breakfast proceed to Bodh Gaya and check in at hotel. Evening visit Mahabodhi Temple and other sites of Buddhist importance. Overnight in the hotel at Bodhgaya. 

Day 03: Bodhgaya – Varanasi (250 km)
Early in the morning proceed to Gaya, 14 kms from Bodhgaya and visit the Vishnupad temple and perform the rituals (pinda) for your ancestors. Later in the afternoon drive to Varanasi. On arrival check into the hotel. Overnight in the hotel. 

Day 04: Varanasi – Vindhyachal (70 km) – Allahabad (100 km)
Breakfast in the hotel and drive to Allahabad, enroute visit Vindhyachal (Goddess Durga Temple). On arrival at Allahabad proceed to Sangam for a holi dip and later visit other places of religious and historical importance. Overnight stay in the hotel at Allahabad. 

Day 05: Allahabad – Chitrakoot – Allahabad (130 km)
After breakfast at hotel drive to Chitrakoot (Madhya Pradesh). According to Hindu Mythology Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana spent eleven and half years of their fourteen years of exile. Visit Ramghat, Kamadgiri, Bharat Milap, Janaki Kund, etc. Later return to Allahabad and overnight stay in the hotel at Allahabad. 

Day 06: Allahabad – Ayodhya (175 km) – Lucknow (140 km)
After breakfast at hotel proceed to Ayodhya. On arrival visit to Rama Janmbhumi – the birth place of lord Rama and other temples. Later proceed to Lucknow. On arrival check into the hotel and overnight stay in Lucknow. 

Day 07: Lucknow – Naimisaranya – Lucknow (about 90 km one way)
After breakfast at hotel proceed to Naimisaranya. The Mahabhrata was composed by Vedavyas in this forest. A dip in the river Gomati at this spot is considered to be very sacred ritual. Later return to Lucknow and drop at Lucknow for onwards journey.

Naimisharanya (also known as Neemsar or Nimsar) is an ancient and highly revered Hindu pilgrimage center in the Sitapur district of Uttar Pradesh, India. Located on the banks of the Gomti River about 94 km from Lucknow, it is famously believed to be the spot where the 18 Puranas were narrated to 88,000 sages

End of the Tour......

For More Details call us: + 91- 9899313111 or Write us: travelmitra@gmail.com

Note: We charge Rs.500 Consultation fee to work out Package Cost and Check the availability. If you confirm the booking with us we redeem this amount.





Monday, March 30, 2015

Multi Lingual Guide or Escort Facilities for India Tour

Here's our list of private guides in New Delhi, India.

TRAVEL MITRA only promotes Tour Guides with a professional license or tour guiding certificate, ensuring you have the best possible tour experience in New Delhi, Rajasthan. Depend on TRAVEL MITRA's local experts to craft the perfect private tour, custom tour or shore excursion!

We provide Multi Language Guide or Escorts (Spanish, German, French, Chinies, English or other language) for the India Tours as required by the guest.

Experience the splendor of India’s top architectural monuments, including several UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Taj Mahal, Humayun’s Tomb and the stunning Fatehpur Sikri. With an expert guide gives you insight to Muslim and Hindu cultural influences in the Golden Triangle - Delhi, Agra and Jaipur - plus Pushkar and beyond. See Qutub Minar in bustling Delhi, ride an elephant to Amber Fort, visit the City Palace in Jaipur and admire the Brahma Temple in Pushkar.

Delhi - Mr.

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Elephant Ride at Amber Fort, Jaipur

The Amber Palace, around 12 km from Jaipur, is among the most famous hilltop forts in India. The 16th century fort built by Raja Man Singh is a perfect blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture.

An elephant ride to the top of this fort is one of the most popular activities in Jaipur .This is the chance to ride an elephant up to the Amber Fort like the royalty of Rajasthan once did. In Amber fort about 100 elephants were used to ride to the historic fort.Mount the animal from a raised platform and sit comfortably in a specially designed, secure seat as the majestic animal winds its way up the ramparts of the fort. The elephant is a gentle creature and the mahout (a person who drives the elephant) uses an ankush (a sharp hook used to guide a tamed elephant by prodding it on the back of its head) to guide the animal up the ramparts. The animals look beautiful as the mahouts decorate them, especially the trunk, with floral and geometric patterns using colored chalk and powders. Once guests reach the top, will enter the PALACE through the grand Singh Pol (Lion Gate) gateway and continue to Jaleb Chowk, the courtyard where you will disembark from the pachyderm

Kindly note that Dep’t of Archeology fixed the timing of Elephant Ride With the summer regulations for the use of elephants coming into force, limiting the number of rides and timing, 

According to the summer regulations an elephant could be used form 0700 Hrs till 10.00 Hrs &  Evening 1530 to 1700 Hrs from 1 APRIL  2014 to 30 APRIL 2014 and will allow ONLY 03 ROUND PER ELEPHANT & from  01 MAY 2014 TO 30 JUNE 2014 ONLY 02 ROUNDS WILL BE ALLOWED &  01 JULY 2014 TO 30 SEPT 2014 only 03 ROUND WILL BE ALLOWED and during the winter from 01 Oct  2014 to 31 March 2015  - 05 rounds will be allowed.

The summer timings will be- Morn.Timing 0700 Hrs.to 1000 Hrs and eve 1530 Hrs to 1700 Hrs.

This was decided after elaborate discussions with various government departments as using the elephants in the scorching sun is harmful to the health of the jumbos. Please note there is a maximum of two passengers allowed on an elephant at one time. Elephant ride is not permitted downhill. Furthermore, the elephant ride is subject to availability. The elephant ride service will be provided on a first come, first served basis. It has been happening very often that despite spending hours in queue for elephant ride tourists are deprived of same as the official allotted number of rotation per elephant gets exhausted. The elephant ride at Amer fort can’t be guaranteed due to this fact. We requests & suggests you that please inform  all the guests with option  Elephant Ride failing Jeep Ride  to avoid any unpleasant situation with guests and also any legal compensation of failure to provide committed services etc. Kindly note that elephant ride cannot be guaranteed under any circumstances.

Kindly note that during the Navratra Festival Elephant ride at Amber fort will be NOT available due to Heavy rush of devotees visiting at Shaila Mata Temple at Amber Palace.

Please note the dates of Navratra and EID Festival

Chatra Navratra 31 MARCH  2014 TO 09 APRIL 2014 – NO ELEPHANT  RIDE

Winter Navratra  25 SEPT 2014 TO 03 OCT 2014             NO ELEPHANT RIDE

EID FESTIVAL (Depends on Moon)   29 JULY  2014 / 05 OCT 2014 -May Not be available

PLEASE NOTE THAT DURING THE NAVRATRA FESTIVAL LIGHT AND SOUND SHOW AT AMBER FORT TIMING WILL BE CHANGED.

for booking or more information visit on http://www.honeymoonpackagesdeals.com/tour-packages/indian-tours/rajasthan

Monday, April 15, 2013

Taj Mahal - Useful Information & tips




Taj Mahal - SH 62, Agra 282001, India
Type: Architectural Buildings, Landmarks/ Points of Interest, Monuments/ Statues
Fees: Indian (Rs.20) || Foreigners (Rs.750)
Open: 06 Am – 06 Pm all Days || Friday Closed
Owner: Renowned for its spectacular architecture and aesthetic beauty, the Taj Mahal is also a symbol of enduring love, built by Shah Jehan to house the grave of his beloved wife, Queen Mumtaz Mahal, who died following the birth of their 14th child.

“Mughal architecture at its best.”
There can be no doubt in any one’s mind after seeing Taj Mahal at Agra, that it is the most beautiful building ever constructed. This is architecture at its absolute best. The calligraphy, carvings and designs are exquisite.
We were lucky to have azure sky with almost no cloud and no haze at all. The place does tend to be quite crowded, but take your time to soak in the beauty of the place.

“breath taking & Magnificent building ”
I didn’t expect the Taj Mahal to be a highlight of a recent trip to India, it was. It is well worth seeing. I didn’t enjoy the "tour" inside; it was far more beautiful to walk around the outside and simple look at this magnificent building.

 “Awesome - “What can I say?”
Taj Mahal is definitely deserving to be called a 'wonder'. It’s a Worth place to visit.  After seeing pictures of this monument for my whole life, I was still unprepared to experience it's beauty first-hand. Yes, there were a lot of people there, but the building and outbuildings are stunning.
When you visit Taj Mahal, it is not same what you see in the photos or videos. It is a once in a life time experience which you surely would like to experience again. No camera can capture the real beauty of Taj Mahal neither can words describe the feeling what you will have when it is in front of your eyes.


I paid 750Rps to visit this wonder of the world and it is worth it. So breathtaking to admire its beauty and its surroundings. I had a sunset view. What a view, what an experience, takes your breath away.
The history surrounding it, is so sad but beautiful So peaceful, well kept, easy to get around
Not to be missed if you see nothing else you need to see this.
Taj Mahal is definitely worth seeing once. I don't believe it could be duplicated today. It is truly an architectural marvel and will not disappoint. The line to enter can look long, but they are quite efficient at moving it along.

Tip 01: If a helpful gentleman offers to show you "best" spot for a photo, he is not just being friendly and helpful! He is expecting a tip. So, if this makes you uncomfortable, politely decline the offer.
Tip 02: Good quality camera is a must
Tip 03: Go early if possible to avoid the hot part of the day, and of course don't forget it will be closed on Fridays.
Tip 04: After the tour is over, the guide will pressure you to go to the tourist type of souvenir shop that he benefits from. Maybe you want to do some shopping, but if you don't - you will have to be very firm.