The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are almost ready to embark on their royal tour of India and Bhutan, and India is well on the way with preparations to receive the couple.
Photos reveal how security has been tightened at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai, as police barriers have been put in place to keep eagers fans excited to meet the Duke and Duchess from crowding the hotel. Photos also show cars undergoing security checks by police before being allowed to enter the premises.
Barriers have been placed around the hotel for extra security
The couple will be staying in the beautiful hotel, which has been restored to its former glory after it was tragically one of the targets of the Mumbai terror attacks in 2008, in tribute to the 164 innocent people who died during the attack. During their stay, William and Kate will also be laying a wreath at the memorial inside the hotel.
The interior of the hotel reportedly looks resplendent with large bouquets of flowers decorating the lobby in anticipation for the royal couple's arrival tomorrow. The general manager Taljinder Singh told The Mirror: "The hotel is working towards making their visit to India memorable by offering Taj’s legendary Indian hospitality.
"We at Taj look forward to hosting the Royal couple by offering the true essence of the Taj experience."
Restaurateur Boman Kohinoor, who claims to be India's biggest fan of the British royal family, is particularly excited to see the royals when they arrive in Mumbai on Sunday. Holding pictures of Queen Elizabeth and Prince William with Kate and son Prince George, the 93-year-old poses outside his hotel Britannia & Co, which has been adorned with royal family memorabilia.
Restaurateur Boman Kohinoor is especially excited to meet the royals
The royal couple will be spending four days in India before travelling to Bhutan, and a royal spokesman has revealed how much they are looking forward to the trip. He said: "The Duke and Duchess are incredibly grateful to have this opportunity to travel to these two beautiful countries.
"The tour will see The Duke and Duchess interact with people from all walks of life, from people in very difficult circumstances, to aspiring and established business leaders, well-known cultural figures, inspiring conservationists, leading politicians, and of course other Royals.
"As you can see this is going to be a hugely exciting and rewarding tour. Their Royal Highnesses are very much looking forward to it."