Royals

Duke and Duchess of Cambridge welcome visitors from India and Bhutan to Kensington Palace

The Duchess of Cambridge wowed in a beautiful evening gown at the reception, just days before the royal duo’s upcoming trip to both countries
Kate Middleton

The Duchess of Cambridge mingled with students from India and Bhutan at a reception at Kensington Palace today, looking dazzling in a floor-length navy blue dress with daring sheer panels and a polka-dot design.

At the reception, the Duke and Duchess spoke with Indian and Bhutanese students studying and working in the UK, entrepreneurs and representatives from the British Asian Trust.

Kate’s gorgeous blue gown, which was created by Indian designer and red carpet favourite Saloni, was a diplomatic pick for the royal as the mum-of-two prepares for her upcoming week-long trip to India and Bhutan with Prince William.

The Duke and Duchess are due to visit India and Bhutan from April 10.

The royal duo’s tour will take place from April 10-16 and marks the first trip to both countries for William and Kate. The couple will start off in Mumbai where they’ll visit the Taj Palace Hotel, which was one of the scenes of the terrorist attacks of November 2008. The pair will lay a wreath at a memorial remembering the victims of the attacks, and meet members of staff who bravely protected guests at the time.

After more activities in Mumbai, Kate and William will travel to New Delhi and tour Kaziranga National Park, getting a closer look at the diverse wildlife in the region and paying a visit to the rural communities living near the park.

During the Bhutan leg of the trip, the couple will meet the King and Queen of Bhutan and get an opportunity to learn more about the heritage and culture of the country.

At the reception at Kensington Palace, Duchess Catherine mingled with students, entrepreneurs and businessmen and women from India and Bhutan.

“The Duke and Duchess are very much looking forward to their tours of India and Bhutan. Their visit to India will be an introduction to a country that they plan to build an enduring relationship with. They will pay tribute to India’s proud history, but also are keen to understand the hopes and aspirations of young Indian people and the major role they will play in shaping the 21st century,” a spokesman for Kensington Palace said.

“Their visit to Bhutan will allow them to continue a relationship between two Royal Families by meeting The King and Queen. The Duke and Duchess have heard many wonderful things about the country and are grateful to have this opportunity to get to know the Bhutanese people.”

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