I'm planning a 25-night stay at the Taj Krishna in Hyderabad.

I usually go with American/OneWorld for airlines and Hilton for hotels, but the flights to and the hotels in Hyderabad don't seem to align with those programs. The Taj seems to be in the Leading Hotels of the World network. Without a Hilton hotel in Hyderabad, I figured I may as well just enjoy the chance to stay at the Taj and see if my long stay might be able to earn a few perks in the LHW program.

I'm seeking any other guidance on my trip that some other seasoned travelers here might be able to offer. My key questions are below...I've searched the forums extensively but I was unable to find information specific to my planned trip. Thanks in advance!

1. Can anyone offer advice on joining the "Leaders Club" to someone who might not stay at an LHW hotel the rest of the year? Do you get "points" per se, or is it something else? At the end of my long stay, will I have earned a few nights at a Langham or other LHW network hotel?

2. Is it worth joining the LC in advance of my booking, and at what level? Is the $300 "Access" level going to provide me some big perks for my stay?

3. I read in a couple of posts that you need to reserve directly through LHW in order to get the benefits - is this true? Will I not earn any "rewards" or anything if I book through my company travel agency?

4. Anybody have any experience with the Taj's specific rewards program? (Taj "InnerCircle" or "Advantage Plus")

5. Any particular insights/advice on the Taj specifically or on Hyderabad in general?

6. Any recommended long weekend trips elsewhere in India? It's my first time going there!

Thanks again!