Travel Destinations
00 Along the banks of River Nila in Kerala, thrived many forms of art in the years gone-by! One such incredible art-form is the enchanting percussion-based music. 00 Kerala’s folklore, like its landscapes is immense, vibrant and extremely colorful. 00 The communities spread along the banks of River Nila are anything but shy when it comes to skilled handiwork and craftsmanship! 00 The dynamics of River Nila are complex and precarious. A vibrant & thriving bunch of communities flourished around its banks for centuries. 00 The rich history of Kerala goes back several centuries; naturally, its bounty of stories, legends and civilzations is wholesome and plentiful. 00 In a remote village not far from Fort Kochin, we came across an ancient community struggling to sustain a rare, organic cultivation of a special crop! Pokkali is one of the oldest. 00 The Handloom industry in Kerala is a work of art in itself! Fine weaving & handspun cotton are the landmarks of Chennamangalam for years. 00 After the harvest of the summer crop, villagers congregate to the local temple on an appointed day. What follows is a breathtaking rendition of ritualistic dance-drama 00 Travellers from far and wide – the world over, Come to the shores of Kerala and lose their hearts for ever,
A land of limitless art, history and cultures we bet, Only we can take you on a journey you’ll never forget!
00 An abode of ageless saints, Paandicherry (as a local would pronounce it) and it's native Tamil population played a key role in the effortless assimilation of the French influence on the town. 00 Close to a century of French occupation has left a distinct stamp in the cultural inheritance of Pondicherry. 00 A few miles outside of Ponidcherry lies ‘Matrikunj’, which translates to ‘The Mother’s Garden’ from Sanskrti. This 43-acre land is a research project on conscious & natural farming. 00 This day trip run by Aurovillians was born out of an eagerness to share what makes Auroville such a unique place to live & visit, giving travellers a first-hand experience of how this community has flourished. Learn from, and about, those who chose to join, build and live this unique lifestyle. 00 This tour facilitates deeper interactions, visits to even more initiatives related to organic farming, forestry, and first hand-interactive sessions with the communities that run these projects. 00 Pondicherry & Auroville have a deep connection with forests & farms – naturally, it becomes a major attraction to include in your visit to this beautiful town. The day-trip is split between two key locations in and around Auroville. 00 The story of Auroville has consciously been built around principles of immersive community development with key focus on sustainability through innovation. 00 These Pondicherry & Auroville Day Trips bring travellers closer to local life in this sleepy town through interactive walks, storytelling, cooking session, skilled workshops & many more. 00 Jayanagar has the distinction of being the first planned neighbourhood in post-Independence Bangalore. A medley of Hindu, Muslim and Jain communities and their places of worship can be seen in the area, alongside residential streets and the bustling 4th Block Market. Join a local storyteller and discover the legends of this photogenic neighbourhood. 00 The Malleswaram Food Trail is a great way to look into the traditional, vegetarian fare of South Indian Brahmin cuisine, including street foods. You will also encounter shops selling fruits and vegetables, spice powders, coffee, papads, ghee, pickles and condiments. 00 This is a two hour walk around Bangalore’s Secretariat area including visits to some of its prominent architecture and gardens. Notable places of interest covered on the walk include the Raj Bhavan, the Bangalore Vidhan Soudha, the Attara Kacheri, Cubbon Park & The Government Museum. 00 Explore the beauty of early morning Bangalore before the traffic & chaos begins. Discover its markets & landmarks before a sumptuous South Indian breakfast. You'll visit the KR Market - a wholesale market of vegetables & flowers, the Basavanagudi Bull Temple, the Bugle Rock Park, the Lalbagh Gardens and Cubbon Park, the VidhanaSoudha (Government building), and the High Court. 00 This tour offers the unique experience of visiting a local home and discovering the secrets of South Indian cuisine with a local host. Observe your host & participate if you want in the creation of an authentic South Indian meal. How awesome would it be to take back an authentic Indian recipe you helped prepare yourself instead of a mere Instagram picture? 00 The Bangalore Cantonment was established by the British in the 18th century. Today, the area is a bustling, multi-cultural neighbourhood worth exploring. We will see some wonderful heritage structures such as the Hatworks Boulevard, the St. Marks Cathedral, etc. followed by visits to the Shivaji Nagar bazaar & the photogenic Russell Market. 00 The Story of Bangalore Day Tour is a full day trip that covers important landmarks of the Garden City such as the Vidhana Soudha, Lalbagh Gardens, Tipu Sultan's Palace, etc. Join a local storyteller to discover the history & development of India's designated IT hub through its landmarks. 00 The Bangalore Art Tour takes you on an interactive trip through some of Bangalore's best fine-art centres and galleries. You can choose from a list of galleries such as the Karnataka Chitrakala Parishat, the National Gallery for Modern Art, the Venkatappa Gallery and the Shanthi Road Gallery, amongst others. 00 The Maharajas of Mysore day trip from Bangalore will cover the highlights of this erstwhile kingdom city - one of the wealthy Deccan kingdoms of yore. The trip will cover many of Mysore's landmarks, such as the Chamundi Temple, the Mysore Palace, Devaraja Market and the Chikka Ghadiyara clock tower amongst others. 00 The Belur Halebid region is famous for its wonderful Hoysala temples. Discover the stories of a Kannadiga empire that ruled the area between the 10th to 14th centuries. This is a full day trip with lunch included. The trip focuses on shedding light on the beautiful sculptures & architecture of the effluent Kannadiga era. 00 Bangalore or Bengaluru, in the top five of India’s largest cities, has a reputation as an IT hub. India’s own version of the Silicon Valley, you might well be under the impression that’s all there is to the city. That perception will change very rapidly as you embark upon a historic journey through Bangalore's fusing pot of old and new.
Day Activities
Our Day Activities are a unique blend of local encounter, stories, community innitiatives, social dialogue, genuine exposure to arts, crafts & culture and interactive participation. The crux of everything we do is the people & the communities we work with; our Day Activities are created to connect our travelers with these communities and reveal truths about the places they visit. The best part about these Day Activities is they allow a degree of flexibility; in the form of excursions ranging from a few hours to a full-day, you can book these activities, right off-the-bat and weave them within your own holiday.
Kerala Day Trips | Cultural Travel
Kerala - A Land of Countless Possibilities
Kerala Day Trips
Musical Trail
Musical Trail
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Along the banks of River Nila in Kerala, thrived many forms of art in the years gone by! One such incredible art-form is the enchanting percussion-based music; traditionally restricted to be performed within the confines of the temple sanctum sanctorum, find out the story of how one inspirational proponent of this art took the music to the masses. Follow the gradual decline of the art in the aftermath of his demise and revel in the struggle of his son to protect, document and nurture this precious heirloom of centuries.
Our Musical Trails are built with the objective to bring to travelers an authentic, rare piece of art that goes centuries back in time. The local community of students at the music school in Mulayankaavu will provide an introduction to the history and nature of their music, followed by a wondrous performance to cap off a magical evening!
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Folk Expressions
Folk Expressions
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Kerala’s folklore, like its landscapes, is immense, vibrant and extremely colorful. As amazing as it sounds, such variety also presents a graver challenge over time – as civilizations mature and develop, countless art forms are lost or forgotten. The Blue Yonder worked with a local group of folk artists to create a platform for the restoration, preservation and conservation of folk arts. This wonderful group traveled across countless villages to document art forms from older generations and created one of the largest digital archives of folk music and local knowledge.
Folk Expressions presents an opportunity for travelers to interact with this wonderful group of folk artists and also witness the fruits of a brilliant project aimed at conserving priceless folklore and art forms!
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A La Craft – Interactive Skills
A La Craft - Interactive Skills
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The communities spread along the banks of River Nila are anything but shy when it comes to skilled handiwork and craftsmanship! Be it pottery, handlooms, weaving, or bell-metal craftsmanship, the skill of these communities in unparalleled.
Through our visits to the pottery, handicrafts and bell-metal workshops, we will present travelers a rare once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to engage in interactive sessions with some of the most skilled artisans of these lands. Travelers will also have the option of rubbing shoulders with these artisans and trying their hand with clay on the ever-rotating wheel!
Our visits to these workshops is an acknowledgemenet of the efforts to rehabilitate and preserve the age-old craftsmanship of these villages. Our visits expand knowledge about the program and provide them financial support.
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Kerala River Cruise on The Nila in a Thoni
Kerala River Cruise on The Nila in a Thoni
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The dynamics of River Nila are complex and precarious. A vibrant and thriving bunch of communities flourished around its banks for centuries. Yet, the strain of fast-changing economics and lack of sustainable sources of income was threatening to ruin the fine balance between nature and humans in this wonderful ecosystem.
The Kerala River Cruises on Nila are held on-board the local ‘thoni’ boats. They are guided by oarsmen from the local communities. These cruises act as a source of alternative, supplementary source of income for these people. Many of the oarsmen were otherwise engaged in disruptive practices such as mining sand illegally from the river bed for lack of income sources.
Join us on a cruise aboard the Thoni, in the company of these natural storytellers. Meander along the course of this beautiful river and look at life in the villages along its bank from a distance!
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The Kerala Legend Trails
The Legend Trails
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The Kerala Legends Trails is a trip down the rich history of Kerala which goes back several centuries; naturally, its bounty of stories, legends and civilizations is wholesome and plentiful.
Our skilled storytellers and interpreters will introduce you to stories that talk about the River Nila civilisation as we travel through historical places. Become acquainted with the strong connection between the Nila and Buddhism! Learn about Mamangam – a festival celebrated once in 12 years by the ancient kings of Kerala to choose an Emperor; discover the rich diversity of faiths in Kerala and spend a tranquil moment at the spot where German missionary Dr. Hermann Gundert wrote the Malyalam-English dictionary. The Kerala Legend Trails is a spectacular journey through time, uncovering secrets of Kerala’s rich history!
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Pokkali and Organic Farms
Pokkali and Organic Farms
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In a remote village not far from Fort Kochin, we came across an ancient community struggling to sustain a rare, organic cultivation of a special crop. Pokkali is one of the oldest and only salt-tolerant varieties of rice that grows organically. Though the communities from these areas have been cultivating Pokkali for centuries, a combination of factors threatened to push the crop to the verge of extinction. The Blue Yonder worked in consultation with the agrarian community to build a sustainable model to facilitate the preservation of this rare crop! How did we do it? What part did the farmers play? Who were the other vital stakeholders? All of these questions and many more will be answered through our Pokkali and Organic Farm visits!
Pokkali and Organic Farm Visits are designed to bring the story of Pokkali to travellers! It’s unique qualities, cultivation, its deep-rooted connection with the community and their struggle to sustain it presents a wonderful case in how various stakeholders from of society collaborated to preserve the delicate cycle of nature!
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Muziris and Handlooms
Muziris and Handlooms
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The Handloom industry in Kerala is a work of art in itself! Fine weaving and handspun cotton have been the landmarks of Chennamangalam for years. Named after its village of origin, Chennamangalam handloom is renowned for its quality. Kerala Saris that are symbolic of Kerala’s culture and traditions are the highlight product of this handloom industry. The weaving is done in a distinct style, with special treatment to the thread, using a special paste, which makes the fabric strong and long lasting. While the distinct style of these saris is renowned all over Kerala, only artificial dyes are used to make them. The Blue Yonder introduced and facilitated the use of natural dyes to local weavers in a co-operative society.
Follow our footsteps to learn more about the wonderful history of this traditional industry, hear their story in their own voice, and unearth the hidden secrets of their trade.
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Mudiyettu & Kerala Craft Trail
Mudiyettu & Kerala Craft Trail
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After the harvest of the summer crop, villagers congregate to the local temple on an appointed day. What follows is a breathtaking rendition of ritualistic dance-drama based on the mythological tale of a battle between the Goddess Kali (of death and destruction) and the demon Darika. Known as the Mudiyettu, this ancient ritual is a dynamic art form, performed using vivid colors, percussion and deep baritones. The Mudiyettu serves as an important cultural site for transmission of traditional values, ethics, moral codes and aesthetic norms of the community, to the next generation, thereby ensuring its continuity and relevance in present times. The Mudiyettu, declared as an Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, is slowly slipping into oblivion.
The Kerala Craft and Ritual Trail take travellers deep into local communities and introduce them to countless such rituals and crafts! These trails also help us provide the communities with the resources required to preserve age-old rituals and generate a sense of pride and ownership amongst them.
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Pondicherry Day Trips | Cultural Travel
Pondicherry Talkies - The Tales of A Local!
Pondicherry Day Trips
Tamil Quarter of Pondicherry & Market Walk
Tamil Quarter of Pondicherry & Market Walk
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Pondicherry and it's native Tamil population played a key role in the assimilation of the French influence on the town. Countless wanderers have followed the teachings of Sri Aurobindo and other freedom fighters like Bharathiar. All have found peace and a sense of belonging in Pondicherry. Many of them from Odisha, West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh settled in various parts of the town’s Tamil Quarter. The result is an unparalleled fusion of cultural diversity that lives within the very air of Pondicherry.
Join our story teller for an interactive walk through the Tamil Quarter of Pondicherry as (s)he reminisces about the years gone-by. The walk alternates between interactive anecdotes about the different languages. It explains the distinctiveness of Franco-Tamil architecture. Discover the lifestyle & heritage of the people. Experience the vibe of local eateries & watering holes. Indulge in real interaction with local businesses and artisans that have seen a thousand splendid suns from these streets!
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Pondicherry French Quarter & The Ashram
Aurobindo Ashram & Pondicherry French Quarter
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Close to a century of French occupation has left a distinct stamp in the cultural inheritance of Pondicherry. Sri Aurobindo Ashram is an integral part of the town. Its associated organisations & buildings as also several cultural organizations & private residences make up what is remaining of the White Town or Pondicherry's French Quarter. Many of these structures are colonial buildings. Some of been deemed as heritage sites and many are breathtakingly beautiful.
In addition to an engaging introduction to the French influence, this walk is also about the journey of Sri Aurobindo. He was a revolutionary freedom fighter from East India who introduced integral yoga to the world. Also learn about The Mother, who followed her vision to reach Pondicherry. The duo’s spiritual journey forms the core of one of India’s famous ashrams. They are the inspiration for many that came to Pondicherry in search of integral yoga. The Ashram & Pondicherry French Quarter walk will be led by one such storyteller, who came to this town seeking peace, and found much more!
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Conscious Farm - Matrikunj!
Conscious Farm
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A few miles outside of Ponidcherry lies ‘Matrikunj’, which translates to ‘The Mother’s Garden’. This 43-acre land is a research project on conscious & natural farming. Within a decade, a land that lay in a dismal state of distress was transformed into an ecosystem of natural farming surrounded by a wholesome forest. The Society cultivates 10 acres of the land with fruits, vegetables & medicinal plants. The rest of the land is allowed to flourish naturally in the company of the forest’s natural inhabitants.
Matrikunj is a unique initiative in the direction of encouraging humanity to use natural agricultural practices. Its broad objective is that of a conscious and harmonious future. This visit to Conscious Farm gives visitors an insight into non-intrusive farming practices, herbal medicines, seed preservation and a lesson in developing a strong consciousness with the land. We believe that this visit will help guests re-discover themselves, cultivating the real joy of farming from within.
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Auroville Impressions | Auroville Day Trip
Auroville Impressions - An Auroville Day Trip
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For many that come to Pondicherry, Auroville is a mystery, pictorially dominated by the visions of the stunning 'Matrimandir'. It is often referred to as the International City or The City of Dawn, in Pondi’s pop-culture. Auroville is the realisation of a dream that followed The Mother’s vision to build an international community devoid of religion & other differences. The founding stone of Auroville was laid in the ‘60s with soil from 124 different nations, brought forth by the first citizens of this wonderful township. More than 2500 people from 50 different countries are permanent residents of this community. This makes Auroville a cultural cauldron with dynamics and complexities of its own.
This day trip run by Aurovillians was born out of an eagerness to share what makes Auroville such a unique place to live & visit. To give travellers a first-hand experience of how this community has flourished. Learn from, and about, those who chose to join, build and live this unique lifestyle. Listen to the stories of the next generation that were born here & decided to stay. Auroville is a tale of sustainability, spirituality, harmony, innovation and participation. Oh! And we almost forgot! Participants on this Auroville day trip will be invited by Aurovillians to lunch at their one-of-a-kind community solar kitchen!
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Auroville Deepdive
Auroville Deepdive - An Auroville Day Trip
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Auroville’s many projects are plentiful to engage a traveler for days on end. As a result, we offer an add-on tour in the form of Auroville Deepdive for those that have participated in ‘Auroville Impressions’ and want to delve deeper in the realms of this contemporary community.
The highlight of the day will be a meditation session in the 'Matrimandir.' This tour also facilitates deeper interactions, visits to even more initiatives related to organic farming, forestry, and first hand-interactive sessions with the communities that run these projects. Many questions that might occur during the Impressions tour will be answered in more detail here.
Note: This trip is open only as an extension to the Auroville Impressions tour and guests can participate on this tour only if they have participated in the Impressions tour.
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Farms and Forests
Farms and Forests
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Pondicherry & Auroville have a deep connection with forests & farms – naturally, it becomes a major attraction to include in your visit to this beautiful town. The day-trip is split between two key locations in and around Auroville.
The first stop will be the peaceful sanctuary of restored and self-generating forest with more than 800 species of plants. Several years ago, an Australian national restored a dying land and founded what has gone on to become a spectacular project. Its library, database, artefacts and photo displays provide strong insight into the teachings of restoration ecology, environmental science, and the identification and use of indigenous medicinal plants.
Part 2 of the journey takes us on an interactive visit to a sustainable farming community aiming at integrating food, permaculture/ natural farming and education within the vision of a creative lifestyle. Krishna, who initiated this project after being inspired by the ideas of Masanobu Fukuoka, author of the “One Straw Revolution”, will walk you through his methods that have pioneered natural farming in India. Spoiler Alert: he’s been known to pick out a random plant or fruit from the wilderness and fashion a mouth-smacking snack/beverage out of nowhere!
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Learn Auroville Crafts
Of Crafty Tales and More!
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The story of Auroville has consciously been built around principles of immersive community development with key focus on sustainability through innovation. These principles have led to the creation and nurturing of several units. These units are dedicated to the creation & preservation of crafts, arts & skilled handicrafts within Auroville. These units serve a dual purpose. They nurture and develop traditional and contemporary art and craft forms; at the same time, they provide a source of livelihood and income for Aurovillians and members of neighbouring villages.
In collaboration with many local stakeholders, a project has been initiated to bring all of these units under one umbrella. Our Arts & Crafts Trail gives travellers a first-hand insight into some ground-breaking works-of-art in Auroville. Join a local Aurovillian as (s)he gives you an introduction to the dynamic Auroville community. (S)he will then take you to some of the craft centres, where travellers can hear their stories, interact with the artisans and witness the creation of the finest of Auroville crafts.
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Bangalore Day Trips | Cultural Travel
Bangalore - The Garden City
Bangalore Day Trips
The Jayanagar Photowalk
The Jayanagar Photowalk
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Like to photograph people going about their daily lives? Enjoy a profusion of color, the confusion of a bustling market? Then join a local photo journalist on a Jayanagar photowalk. Your storyteller will lead you on an exploration of Jayanagar, a vast, old, multi-cultural neighborhood in South Bangalore. Jayanagar has the distinction of being the first planned neighborhood in post-Independence Bangalore. A medley of Hindu, Muslim and Jain communities and their places of worship can be seen in the area, alongside residential streets and the bustling 4th Block Market. A survey in 2010 voted Jayanagar as the best place to live in Bangalore. You’ll spend time at the flower market, fruit market, vegetable market and puja/prayer-items market. This is a slow paced tour, so you can get as many photographs as you’d like.
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The Malleswaram Food Trail
The Malleswaram Food Trail
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Malleswaram is an old residential and market area, home to Tamil and Kannada speaking families of long standing. The Malleswaram Food Trail essentially is a walk through the market. A good way to look into the traditional, vegetarian fare of South Indian Brahmin cuisine, including street foods. Aside from food, clothing, kitchen implements and a lot more can be bought. The tour starts at Kaadu Malleswara temple, Malleswaram’s patron deity. Our local foodie & storyteller will take you on an exploration of the market and its culinary offerings and explain the various ingredients and foods you come across. You will encounter shops selling fruits and vegetables, spice powders, coffee, papads, ghee, pickles and condiments. You will also stop by a few eateries to sample local snacks both sweet and savoury – depending on the time of year and the current festive season, certain seasonal specials will be on offer too.
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The Bangalore Vidhana Soudha Walk
The Bangalore Vidhana Soudha Walk
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We’ll take a two hour walk around Bangalore’s Secretariat area and visit some of its recognisable architecture and gardens. We’ll meet at the General Post Office (GPO) building, an easy to find local landmark. We’ll walk to the Raj Bhavan (the Governor’s Residence), the Bangalore Vidhana Soudha (the State Legislature) and Attara Kacheri (the High Court) and your guide will give you the history and workings of these establishments. Next we’ll take a stroll through Cubbon Park, and stopping at landmarks within the park. We’ll end with a stop at the Government Museum, one of the oldest museums in India, established during British rule, and the adjoining Venkatappa Art Gallery, which houses art dating back to 2000 BC.
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Early Morning Bangalore
Early Morning Bangalore
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Bangalore is getting as well known for its infamous traffic as for being India’s Silicon Valley. To avoid the stress and rush hour hassles, we’ve come up with a tour that takes you around the city in the early morning to see some of the major monuments, and you’ll get to see the early-to-rise locals in action in the markets, temples and parks. At dawn, we’ll head to KR Market, a wholesale vegetable and flower market, so you can watch the morning trucks arrive and unload their colorful wares – it will be a whirl of color and chaos and a perfect photo op!
Next we’ll drive to one of Bangalore’s oldest neighborhoods, Basavanagudi, to visit the famous Bull Temple for which the area is named and indeed the very street is known as Bull Temple Road! Then we’ll stroll through Bugle Rock Park, where the main rock formations have been dated to 300 million years ago! A visit to this area would be incomplete without a stop in Gandhi Bazaar for the famous local coffee and breakfast of South Indian specialties at a famous local café.
Then we’ll head to the central part of Bangalore so you can see two of Bangalore’s most famous parks, Lalbagh Gardens and Cubbon Park, the VidhanaSoudha (Government building), and the High Court.
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Bangalore Cuisine Tour - Home Cooking
The Bangalore Cuisine Tour - Home Cooking & Lunch
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A special experience for any tourist would be a visit to a local home and a home cooked meal. The Bangaore Cuisine tour offers you this and more – you will also get to participate in the cooking and learn about the dishes, and watch your hostess prepare a range of typical South Indian vegetarian delicacies for you. While not a formal cooking class, you’ll have the chance to watch the home chef in action, ask any questions you have, and learn of traditional recipes handed down through the generations. Please let us know in advance of any food restrictions or preferences and we’ll create the menu accordingly.
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The Bangalore Cantonment Tour
The Bangalore Cantonment Tour
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In the early 1800s, the British built a military Cantonment in Bangalore, the largest garrison in South India. The military establishment went on to include clubs, churches, shops, cinemas and bungalows. The area around the Cantonment became a native settlement filled with Hindus, Muslims and Anglo-Indians and English, Urdu and Tamil were spoken. Today, the area around the Bangalore Cantonment is still a bustling, multi-cultural area, sans the military presence.
We will begin our exploration at Hatworks Boulevard, a 145 year old heritage building that now houses boutiques, an art gallery and a coffee shop, where once stood the Imperial Hat Works. This bungalow has Burma teak windows and doors associated with Bangalore bungalows of the era. Next we’ll drive to St. Marks Cathedral, an Anglican Church dating back to 1808, built for the British garrison. St. Marks is known for its grand pipe organ, architecture and a music academy. A drive through the M.G. Road area will then bring us to the Holy Trinity Protestant Church which has tablets dedicated to the British who lived in Bangalore.
Old Airport Road is where you will see the sections belonging to the Indian Armed Forces. We will drive by Ulsoor Lake and go to the bustling Shivaji Nagar bazaar. An exploration on foot of the neighborhood, famous locally for its street food, will be next. We will also see Mariamman Temple and St Mary’s Basilica. Russell Market is a place for great photographs and we will traverse this market with its sections for flowers, vegetables, fruits, fish and meat. Our last stop will be Shivajinagar to see the old furniture and bamboo bazaar. After this, we will drop you back at your hotel.
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The Story of Bangalore Day Tour
The Story of Bangalore Day Tour
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Spend an entire day discovering this bustling city and its various angles. You will see the city on foot and by car and your personal guide will share with you the history and legacy of the city. Built in the 1500s by Kempe Gowda, he marked the boundaries of the city with four towers. Your first stop will be at Lalbagh Gardens (The Red Gardens), where one of the towers is. With a lake, aquarium and tropical plants, it’s a popular spot with locals and is a distinctive part of the landscape in South Bangalore. Lalbagh plays host to the annual flower show in August, held in its famous glass house and is also a popular spot with birders. Next we’ll head nearby to Tipu’s Summer Palace – Tipu Sultan is one of the significant rulers whose contributions are still reflected in the local landscape. The palace, though derelict, is representative of the wooden architecture of the period. After the palace, we’ll head to the Cantonment area, established by the British in the 1800s after they defeated Tipu Sultan. You will visit the bazaar, army residential areas as well as a well-known old church. The rest of Bangalore, away from the Cantonment was nominally still under the Maharajah of Mysore (the Wodeyar family) and we will visit the Palace of the Wodeyars as well.
The Vidhana Soudha is an arresting government building that was constructed post-Independence, featuring hybrid architecture and Indian motifs. You will be able to take photographs of the buildings in the area as we drive by, and then we will take a stroll through another of Bangalore’s parks, Cubbon Park. If it’s of interest, before you are dropped back to your hotel, a drive through one of the city’s tech hubs will give you a feel for India’s Silicon Valley and a look at the new face of Bangalore.
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The Bangalore Art Tour
The Bangalore Art Tour
[rev_slider BangaloreArt]
Not just garden or IT city, Bangalore is also home to numerous art galleries featuring traditional and contemporary South Indian art. An English speaking art student will be your very own guide for the Bangalore Art tour. Though not an expert on art, (s)He will be familiar with the various galleries. You can pick and choose from the spots on our list and also ask for any other you’re interested in, and we’ll be happy to arrange it. Our list of galleries on the tour include:
NGMA Bangalore: The National Gallery of Modern Art with paintings by India’s best modern and contemporary painters.
Karnataka Chitrakala Parishat: This art institution and gallery always has an art exhibition to visit. Students here learn painting, sculpture, applied art, graphic art and art history.
Venkatappa Gallery: Houses art from 2000 BC to the medieval period and is a popular stop.
Galleryske: Displays modern art and has an interesting building worth checking out.
Shanti Road Gallery: Has courtyards where artists display their work, and is popular for student art shows.
Gallery Sumukha: An art gallery that showcases contemporary Indian art.
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The Maharajas of Mysore Day Trip
The Maharajas of Mysore Day Trip
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We will take a day trip to Mysore, which is about 3 hours away from Bangalore (depending on traffic could be more), to take in the highlights of this Kingdom city, one of the wealthy Deccan kingdoms of yore. The Wodeyars are the founding family and rulers, and Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan ruled for two generations, also contributing to the splendor of the city. With a strong appreciation for art, culture and music, the influence of the Wodeyars is apparent even today. Though there is plenty to see in the city, we will cover the following during our day long visit, with a stop for lunch at the Royal Orchid Metropole.
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Day Trip to Belur Halebid
Day Trip to Belur Halebid
[rev_slider BelurHalebid]
Another great day trip you can take from Bangalore is to go see the wonderful Hoysala (the Hoysala was a Kannadiga empire that ruled the area between the 10th and 14th centuries) temples at Belur and Halebid. This is a full day excursion to the Hoysala temples at Belur and Halebid. The drive time from Bangalore is around 4 hours. Belur was originally the capital city of the empire, until the switch to Halebid in the 12th century. Your guide will regale you with the stories and history of the time. The temples at both cities are very beautiful and representative of the culture and art of the era. The Hoysalas were patrons of the arts and architecture and these temples are testament to the workmanship and sentiments of the time.
We will begin with a stop in Halebid to visit the Hoysaleshwara temple, dedicated to Shiva. Then we will stop for lunch we will stop at the Hoysala Village Resort at Hassan, after which we make our way to Belur to visit the Chennakeshava temple. Dedicated to Vishnu, the idol is of Vishnu is his handsome or as they in Kannada, “chenna” form. Using soft soapstone to create their intricate carvings, these two temples are the best examples of Hoysala workmanship. After this temple, we will return to Bangalore and drop you back to your hotel.
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DAYSThe Old City of Varanasi is at its charming best at dawn. Join us as the holy city rises to offer its morning prayers along the banks of its many Ghats. We begin by boat and continue on foot as we discover the myriad amazement that ensues in this ancient spiritual city!
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DAYSWalk through the intricate, bustling streets of Varanasi's evening markets. Embark upon a rickshaw ride with a local storyteller, before witnessing the mesmerising phenomenon of the Ganga Aarti which takes place on the bank of the Holy Ganges.
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DAYSWalk through the waterfront and take in the famous ghats of Varanasi (series of steps leading to the river) in the company of a local storyteller who will regale you with tales of local folklore, legends, history and the beliefs and different interpretations of the people that consider this region holy!
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DAYSThe Sarnath Buddhist Pilgrimage is a short day trip from Varanasi. Sarnath is the spot where Buddha gave his first sermon and set the Dhammachakka – the wheel of law in motion. Visit the Chaukhandi Stupa, Dhamek Stupa,the Mulgandha Kuti Vihara & The Archaeological Museum.
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DAYSThe Blue Yonder Varanasi Day Trips take you deep within the Holy City of Varanasi. Explore its holy bathing ghats, bazaars & historic centres of education. Discover local legends, folklore and understand the belief-system people share with this holy town!
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DAYSDiscover two of Agra's biggest landmarks through its stories, architecture & folklore. The Taj Mahal & Agra Fort are architectural wonders in itself, but what makes them even more special is the incredible stories that live within its walls.
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DAYSA bazaar walk in old Agra is a great chance to mingle with locals. Take in all the colours and smells and witness the old ways of life. The bazaar area around Jama Masjid is a traditional market which will appeal to all of your senses and leave you enchanted.
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DAYSAgra has beautiful tombs with their own stories, from before the Taj Mahal was conceptualized and built. This tour will take you to two of them - the imposing red tomb of Akbar the Great that he commissioned for himself before his death, and the elegant white tomb of Itmad-ud-daulah.
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DAYSAnother of India’s 32 UNESCO World Heritage sites, Fatehpur Sikri is about an hour’s drive from Agra. The city comprised of palaces, public buildings and mosques and had living area for the Mughal court, its army, tradesmen, merchants and the general populace. Built of red sandstone, the monuments are a mix of Hindu, Persian and Indo-Islamic style and tradition.
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DAYSThis is an early morning trip to the Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary in Bharatpur. This sanctuary has been designated under the Ramsar Convention as a Wetland of International Importance. Bharatpur is another UNESCO World Heritage site, only an hour's distance from Agra.
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DAYSGetting to experience a home cooked meal is not part of the usual tourist to do list. This tour offers you a unique opportunity to visit the home of an Agra local to learn about the local food and food culture, watch the meal being prepared (and even participate in the cooking if you’d like to)
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DAYSThe Taj Mahal’s presence has placed the city of Agra firmly in the minds of travellers the world over. Our Agra Day Trips cover most of Agra's architectural wonders & its ever-present Mughal influence, its food culture & the cosmopolitan nature of its people.
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DAYSLocated in the center of Delhi, the Lal Qila, Red Fort, was home to Mughal emperors of India from Shah Jahan to Bahadur Shah (the last Mughal Emperor of India), over a span of 200 years. The ceremonial and political center of the Mughal Empire, the Red Fort was the last of the many forts built by the Mughals in the 1600s.
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DAYSThis walk through the Old Delhi market area provides a glimpse into the culture and traditions of the city. We will stroll through the Dariba Kalan (the silver market), Kinari Bazaar (wedding market) & Paranthewali Galli (Lane of Parathas), a landmark known for making all kinds of stuffed parathas, amongst many other places of interest.
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DAYSThe Qutub Minar complex takes one back to the dawn of Islamic rulers in India, when the “Slave Dynasty” from Turkey brought Islam and their ways to India. The complex houses the Qutub Minar, the Iron Pillar of Delhi, the Alai Minar and India's first mosque - Quwwat ul Islam.
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DAYSThis day trip reveals the story of Humayun's Tomb - one of many UNESCO World Heritage sites in this area. Commissioned by Humayun's first wife, this is the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent. The structure is also significant since it is believed to have inspired several major architectural innovations of the time.
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DAYSNamed for the famous 14th century Sufi saint, Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, the Nizamuddin Dargah & Heritage tour offers a look at Mughal monuments and introduces you to Sufi music and culture. Marvel at the incredible patronage of the Mughal empire through this walk back in time.
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DAYSThere is a certain beauty to a city that is stirring awake, and Delhi, foggy and misty in the early mornings, is no exception. From flower shops selling their wares, to the faithful offering early morning prayers and the small tea and breakfast stalls offering breakfast, there is plenty to take in and photograph.
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DAYSDelhi is a meld of the old and new, an ancient city that dates back to B.C. From the Rajput Tomars who founded the original city in 8 A.D. to the Chauhans, Sultans and Mughals, various rulers fought for supremacy and control of the area, with a total of 7 cities being built between these rulers with the British adding the eight later when they colonised India.
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DAYSBritish architect Edwin Lutyens was the man behind many of the imposing and impressive buildings that were built, with the goal of showcasing a grand city space. After independence, the British vision was replaced. Monuments like President’s House, Parliament House, India Gate, Rajpath, Janpath, Connaught Place and the bungalows of government officials today represent democratic India.
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DAYSThe essence of a city like Delhi is in its people & diversity. This tour takes you to places of worship from different religions in India, a local market, and neighbourhoods to glimpse the people of Delhi going about their daily lives.
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DAYSDelhi street food is one of its largest claims to fame. Experience the vibrant, colourful atmosphere of a thousand different kind of food-vendors sitting next to each other, coaxing you to taste their own delicacy, passed down in all likelihood as a family heirloom.
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DAYSThe Delhi Cuisine tour offers travellers the rare opportunity to visit a local home & discover the secrets of traditional Indian cuisine. Join your host on a market visit & later help them in the preparation of a vegetarian meal. Witness the magic of Indian spices unfold before your very eyes and take away a special Indian recipe instead of an Instagram picture of the Indian food you tasted!
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DAYSShopping in Delhi holds special excitement for people from all over the country. Delhi's home to an amazing plethora of items, including jewellery, textiles and fabrics, ready to wear clothing, leather, handicrafts, carpets, bags, shoes and Indian arts and handicrafts worth choosing from. From expensive to affordable to incredibly inexpensive, there is something to suit every taste and price range.
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DAYSOur storytellers in Delhi are passionate people that love their city, are well versed in its stories, legends & history! They are always on the lookout for an unassuming audience, eager to share their love for this wonderful city with travellers just like you!
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DAYSSpend a day exploring the many highlights of the Pink City. From an elephant ride to the historic Amer Fort to a visit to the majestic Hawa Mahal and the city's many priceless artisans, this day trip is an intense ride through Jaipur's many treasures.
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DAYSJoin our food guide as we walk through a local market to learn about the nuances of Rajasthani cooking, before you head to your local host’s home for the meal. For those who want to experience Jaipur’s street food, guide will explain the delicacies & you can taste whatever takes your fancy.
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DAYSThe old walled city of Jaipur is a labyrinth of historic landmarks, street shops ranging from chai to traditional arts & crafts and much more. Against this eventful backdrop, join us for a stroll as we connect the past with the present in this historic city.
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DAYSRajasthan’s largest and capital city is a study in pink thanks to all buildings being either constructed of pink stone or painted pink. Discover Rajasthani cuisine, the city's unique architecture, town-planning and more with our magical trips.
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DAYSBecome acquainted with life in the Blue City with this full day personalized tour of the major sights in Jodhpur. The guided tour includes visits to major landmarks of the city such as the Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Ghantaghar Market amongst some other hidden treasures.
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DAYSThe Ghanta Ghar market walk takes you around the bustling marketplace, (Jodhpur’s largest) through the clock tower (Ghanta ghar) area and offers a glimpse into a variety of produce, from vegetables to traditional clothing, fabric and jewellery. Sip on some 'chai' as you take in the energy of this historic market.
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DAYSA half day (5 hour) tour by jeep that takes you to the areas surrounding Jodhpur, into the dry Thar desert, so you can meet the various communities that make up the rural Marwar ecosystem and get a glimpse of desert wildlife, including migratory winter birds during season.
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DAYSThe majesty of the Thar Desert, pink palaces, golden forts, a dash of blue cities and centuries of heritage. Experience the magic of the grit & humility of the Marwari people and their vibrant culture.
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DAYSHighlights of Udaipur is a guided tour that covers the most famous landmarks of Rajasthan's most romantic city. Udaipur is renowned for its beautiful palaces, lakes and gardens. This trip combines the best of the lot including visits to the City Palace, Saheliyon ki Bari, the Jagdish Temple & the vintage car collection into a concise 5 hour itinerary.
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DAYSThis day trip to Chittorgarh Fort focuses on exploring the ruins of Chittor, dramatic with its palaces, temples, towers and reservoirs. This ancient city was the capital of the Mewar kingdom for over 800 years. The stories surrounding the city, and its dashing rulers, are the stuff of legends and lore.
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DAYSGhats (steps) that lead down to the river, are a common sight in many Indian towns, and Udaipur is known for its bathing ghats. Join a local storyteller as he leads you on a winding maze through different kinds of bazaars before introducing you to the eventful bathing ghats of Udaipur.
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DAYS22 kilometers from Udaipur, the Saas Bahu Temple Complex includes a cluster of temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, built in the 9th and 10th century. Though now in ruins, you’ll get to marvel at the perfect symmetry and workmanship of these ancient temples.
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DAYSSpend a day in the Aravalli Mountains with this day excursion to Ranakpur, which is home to a cluster of Jain temples that are unparalleled in their beauty & Kumbhalgarh, which boasts of a magnificent fort. Lose yourself to the history and spirituality of these ancient sites.
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DAYSOur Udaipur Day Trips offer a range of activities that enable travellers to connect with the people of Udaipur and the majestic Aravalli Hills around the city that are home to several sites of historic and archaeological importance in and will leave you enchanted during your time in Rajasthan's most romantic city!
00 This is a guided tour of Bikaner Must See's. Our storytellers will lead you through your own private exploration of the city of Bikaner. The highlights of this trip are the Junagarh Fort, the Old City of Bikaner, the stone ‘havelis’ and the camel breeding farm. 00 The Bikaner Old City Walk in the company of our local storytellers is a brilliant introduction to the colorful life in this desert city. Explore the bangle, spice and vegetable markets, the ‘tea street’ and the red-stone havelis of Bikaner during this walk. Transfers from and to the hotel will be via the colorful tuktuk - also an experience worth remembering. 00 This day trip takes you to Deshnok, which is at an hour's distance from Bikaner. The Karni Mata Temple is unique in that it is home to over 20,000 rats. Rats are considered sacred to Karni Ma, the patron goddess of Bikaner’s royal family. 00 Sandstone forts, palaces and temples await exploration in this medieval town, as do heritage homes and colorful and traditional markets. Discover the secrets of this desert town with Bikaner day trips, led by our accomplished storytellers. 00 A guided tour of Jaisalmer's landmarks, this trip with a local storyteller will take you through places such as The Golden Fort, Patwon ki Haveli, Nathmal Haveli, the Gadisar Lake, Salim Singh ki Haveli, the Folklore Museum & Bada Bagh. 00 Relish a spectacular view of the city and desert from Jaisalmer's Golden fort - the city's prime attraction. Learn about its history and stories from a local storyteller as you traverse through its many gates, residential streets and bazaars. 00 This day trip takes you to three incredible spots on the outskirts of Jaisalmer. Visit the royal chenopaths of Bada Bagh & the abandoned Paliwal Brahmin village of Kuldhara before experiencing a desert sunset on camel back at the Sam Sand Dunes. 00 Harking back to the Middle Ages, the town of Jaisalmer basks in a golden glow, thanks to the yellow sandstone and sand used to construct all the buildings in the town. Explore its medieval charm with our local storytellers as they take you down a memorable route through Jaisalmer's sand-strewn lanes! 00 The bazaars of Mumbai are a colourful, fascinating place full of energy, life & chaotic harmony. This Bazaar Walk will take travellers through some of the most famous markets of the city, including the Bhuleshwar market, Jama Masjid, the Zaveri Bazaar, Mangaldas Cloth Market, Phool Galli & More. 00 The Chor Bazaar of Mumbai is a splendid phenomena. Occupied by sellers of every imaginable commodity, this 'thieves' market is a mesmerising daze of colour, chaos, energy and adrenaline. The Market of Thieves follows no rules, except one - if you want to buy something, bargaining is a must! And even if you don't feel up for a stressful shopping experience, just sit back and experience the beauty of chaotic harmony! 00 The Kala Ghoda Art Walk takes you through the Art Precinct of Mumbai’s British Heritage District. Kala Ghoda is the cultural centre of Mumbai, with its numerous art galleries, museums and cultural spaces, and pavement galleries, in addition to many shops, designer boutiques and restaurants that dot the area.
00 The Jewish community in Mumbai played a very important role in the development and growth of the city in historic times. Their distinct culture & beliefs makes them a very interesting part of the city's cultural psyche. This trip will introduce you to the Jewish heritage of Mumbai in addition to many must see landmarks of the city. 00 The Lalbaug area is the heart of the textile mill industry of colonial Mumbai. This walk provides a cultural introduction to the area and its people. We will explore the religious, economic, political and social fabric of this multi-cultural area which is home to Marathi-speaking Hindus as well as small communities of Parsis and Muslims. 00 Ever wondered the meaning of the name Mumbai or from where it originated? Discover on the walk through the Worli fishing village and experience the old ways of life of the Kolis - the fisherfolk community of Mumbai. 00 Go back in times, marvelling through the Fort heritage district and be introduced to Mumbai’s British architecture. Fort George which gives the district its name, was demolished in the 1860s. Today the district is the financial center of India. Most of the buildings still exist and are generally in great shape. Discover the fascinating stories behind each of them on this heritage walk. 00 Discover the many legends of Lord Shiva through evocative stone sculptures on the Elephanta Island through this day excursion to Elephanta Caves - a World Heritage Site. The island is a short ferry ride off the coast of mainland Mumbai. 00 A trip to India would be incomplete without checking out the local food of Mumbai! Ranade Road and Dadar market is the perfect place to start your gourmet experiment...on an empty stomach please!This area is popular for its Maharashtrian cuisine of mouth-watering masalas, pickles, snacks & delicacies. 00 Mumbai is a melting pot of diverse people and culture ranging from the native Kolis to the Parsis, Jews, Christians, Muslims, amongst other faiths; all of whom coexist in great harmony in this great city. Discover this rich cultural diversity of Mumbai's populace, through the Humans of Mumbai trip. 00 Every day, hundreds of thousands flock to arguably one of the world's greatest cities. Some in search of a livelihood, many others chasing a dream. Mumbai is the financial capital of India and aptly known as the City of Dreams. Experience the fabled spirit of this resilient city and discover its journey from British Bombay to contemporary Mumbai.Bikaner Day Trips | Cultural Travel
Bikaner - The Desert Jewel!
Activities
Bikaner Must See's - The Highlights
Bikaner Must See's - The Highlights
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This is a guided tour of Bikaner Must See's. Our storytellers will lead you through your own private exploration of the city of Bikaner, from the Old City to the stone ‘havelis’ and camel breeding farm.
Junagarh Fort: Definitely Bikanar’s crown jewel of attractions, this 16th century fort houses a multitude of structures within. You will find yourself awestruck at the intricacy of the stone carved bastions, high walls, many palaces, courtyards, pavilions and balconies. There’s more in store- the richly painted and embellished interiors are sure to take your breath away! Mirror work, enamel work, gold work, shell finish, and lacquer work combine to create a majestic and lasting impression. History and culture buffs are sure to be enthralled by the royal relics like cannons, thrones, beds, swings, palanquins and not to be missed - a Haviland plane.
Take in the Old City (walking and autorickshaw tour) A walk through the Old City to experience markets including the Bada Bazaar market, see the distinctive red sandstone ‘havelis’ (mansions)shrines and 'namkeen' (snacks) shops. An autorickshaw ride through the narrow streets is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Camel Breeding Farm We will take you to the National Research Centre on Camel, the camel breeding farm run by the government that works to preserve the desert’s ecosystem. You can visit the camel pens and camel museum, learn about camel breeding and take a camel ride.
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Bikaner Old City Walk and Tuktuk Ride
Bikaner Old City Walk and Tuktuk Ride
[rev_slider BikanerOldCity]
We’ll start with a fascinating tuktuk (auto-rickshaw) ride to the Old City, to the Jain Bhandasar Temple. A climb to the first floor of the temple offers a good view of the city and then we’ll continue on foot, taking a walk through the bangle, spice and vegetable market, as well as ‘tea street’. Walking on, we’ll stop at Rampuria Street, where you can see some beautiful examples of the traditional red sandstone ‘havelis’ (mansions). Built by well to do merchants, the intricately carved structures are representative of the trending architectural styles of the 1900s as well as the personal tastes of their owners. We’ll end with tea at a haveli converted to a heritage hotel and this will give you the chance to get a close up look at one of these marvelous buildings.
The Bikaner Old City Walk in company of our local storytellers is a brilliant introduction to the colorful life in this desert city.
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Karni Mata Temple Visit
Karni Mata Temple Visit
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The Karni Mata Temple is unique in that it is home to over 20,000 rats. Rats are considered sacred to Karni Ma, the patron goddess of Bikaner’s royal family, to whom the temple is dedicated. This tour takes you to Deshnok, less than an hour away from Bikaner, where this temple is located. You will find worshippers from across the state and curious tourists, attracted by the sight of the rats. On the way to the temple, we will visit the royal cenotaphs at Devi Kund.
You will also get a glimpse of rural life in Rajasthan as we pass through some villages on the way. Please do be aware that there are a lot of rats running around the temple and if this is something that does not appeal to you, you should reconsider this trip. As it is a place of worship with many devotees, the peace and quiet of the sanctum must be maintained. Also, leather items, including wallets and belts, are not allowed in the temple, neither is photography of the idol.
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Jaisalmer Day Trips | Cultural Travel
Jaisalmer - The City of Gold!
Jaisalmer Day Trips
Jaisalmer Must See's - The Highlights
Jaisalmer Must See's - The Highlights
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Jaisalmer Must See's is a personalized tour, by car and foot, that takes you to all the major attractions in the town. A day long adventure, we will be happy to customize and adapt the tour to suit your interests. There is a break for lunch and your guide can help you with be recommendations on where to eat. During the day, you will visit:
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The Jaisalmer Golden Fort Heritage Walk
The Jaisalmer Golden Fort Heritage Walk
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Sona Kila or the Jaisalmer Golden Fort was built in 1156 and is a fortified settlement. Jaisalmer’s prime attraction, the fort houses royal palaces, temples, mansions and bazaars. Our local storytellers are well versed in the history of the fort and will share first-hand insight with you. You will learn about the various gates to enter the fort (Akhai Pol, Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Hava Pol) and visit the Dushera Chowk, Fort Palace Museum, Jain temple (Shri Chandraprabhuswami Temple), and the Hindu temple (Laxminarayan Temple).
You will get a spectacular view of both the city and desert from the fort, and traverse residential streets and bazaars.
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Desert Sunset at Sam Sand Dunes
Desert Sunset at Sam Sand Dunes
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This day trip takes you to three incredible spots that lie on the outskirts of Jaisalmer. Our first stop will be Kuldhara, an abandoned village once inhabited by the Paliwal Brahmins. Of note are the water storage and irrigation methods that they used. Next up is the splendour of Bada Bagh. These are the royal cenotaphs (chhatris) of the maharajas and maharanis of Jaisalmer. Executed in beautiful sandstone, the earliest chhatris are from the mid 1700’s. We’ll end the day at the Sam Sand Dunes. Experience the magical sunset of a desert land in addition to an optional camel ride.
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Mumbai Day Trips | Cultural Travel
Mumbai - The City of Dreams
Mumbai Day Trips
Mumbai Bazaar Walk | Mumbai Day Trips
The Mumbai Bazaar Walk
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The bazaars of Mumbai are a colourful, fascinating place full of energy and life. If you want to experience the street markets, colourful people and vibrant fusion of different cultures with temples, mosques and derasars next to each other, then the native bazaar of Bhuleshwar is a must see. The Mumbai Bazaar walk will cover Jama Masjid where you can meet the oldest Muslim community of India, Zaveri Bazaar for the gold lovers, Mangaldas Cloth Market, Phool Galli (Flower Street), Madhav Baug and the place where Mumbai gets its name from - Mumbaidevi Temple. The street food available in the area is a foodie’s paradise. You will be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide to give you the best experience possible. You can also visit an animal shelter (Panjra Pole) and get a look at how the Jain community lives.
The bazaars are the place where the essence of Mumbai spills out into the streets. If you want to experience the life of this great city, the Mumbai bazaar walk is not to be missed!
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Chor Bazaar - The Market of Thieves
Chor Bazaar - The Market of Thieves
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From functional to bizarre, genuine to junk, Mumbai’s famous Chor Bazaar is a place where you can get anything under the sun! To name a few - brassware, ceramics, handicrafts, glass lamps, clocks, gramophones, old maps, paintings, dowry chests to coffee tables, rocking chairs. The Market of Thieves follows no rules, except one - if you want to buy something, bargaining is a must! No wonder, its a paradise of compulsive shoppers! And those wary of shopping, can still feel entertained just gazing at the endless varieties of things on display.
If you ever manage to tire of Chor Bazaar, you walk to the neighboring GolDeoul with its circular Shiva temple and Null Bazaar, the marketplace for fruits, vegetables, meat and fish. Those curious and friendly, can chat with the fisher folks who are original fishing community of Mumbai, the Kolis or gain an inside look into the lives of the Bohras, a minority Shia Muslim community.The tour will also provide you an opportunity to taste the authentic and delicious Muslim cooking first-hand.
Tour Details: Tour is available everyday of the week except Fridays. There are two sessions beginning at 11am or 3pm. Each tour runs around 2 hours even though if folks get carried away with shopping, it could run longer!
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The Kala Ghoda Art Walk
The Kala Ghoda Art Walk
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Glimpse into the fascinating world of contemporary Indian arts, culture & sculpture, right in the heart of India's busiest metros! This tour takes you through the Art Precinct of Mumbai’s British Heritage District introducing you to Kala Ghoda, the cultural centre of Mumbai, with its numerous art galleries, museums and cultural spaces, and pavement galleries, in addition to many shops, designer boutiques and restaurants that dot the area. It houses numerous heritage structures in various architectural styles including Indo Saracenic, Victorian Neo-Gothic, Renaissance Revival and Edwardian Neo Classical styles. A visual treat for sore eyes accustomed to high rise buildings of metros.
The Kala Ghoda Art Walk will take you down memory lanes as you go through galleries showcasing different schools of Indian art from the early 1900s to present modern Indian Art. You can see how Indian art was influenced by the West during colonial times, inculcating Western aesthetics while retaining a distinct identity for itself.
Let us know in advance if you wish to buy a piece of Indian Art. Since it is a group walk, you could familiarize yourself with the different artists and artistic styles, and perhaps return later if you wish to purchase it.
Tour Details: Every day of the week, except Mondays.Start at the National Gallery of Modern Art, opposite the Prince of Wales Museum. Starts at 11:00 a.m, and runs for 2 hours.
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Jewish Heritage Tour | Mumbai Day Trips
The Jewish Heritage Tour
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Be enriched by the rich history of the old Jewish community, whose presence in India dates back to over 2000 years ago. The Jewish community in India is quite diverse with different sects practicing a different set of customs and rituals. Your local storyteller will give you glimpses of the local Jewish customs.
The tour will start with the Sassoon docks, which was built by an influential family of Bhagdadi Jews. If you are able to start early in the morning, we will be able to see the docks bustling with activity as the day’s catch is brought in and sold. The walk through the docks will also introduce you to Mumbai’s oldest fisherfolk community the Kolis, who have been fishing off the shores of Maharashtra for generations.
Next we will visit the historical Gateway of India, the Fort Heritage and the Kala Ghoda Districts where we will see the beautifully built Kenneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue and the David Sassoon Library. The Shaar Harahamim or the Gate of Mercy Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in Mumbai, would be our next stop, followed by a visit to the Magen David Synagogue and the Sassoon Children’s school.
Bringing you back to India of current times, we will visit the Victoria Terminus, a UNESCO World heritage site, Bombay Muncipal Building, Haji Ali, the unique mosque in the sea, and the fascinating Dhobi Ghat, Mumbai’s famous outdoor laundry system. You may also ask the guide to take you to Crawford Market, where you can find Hindu, Muslim and Jain businessmen along with the Jewish businessmen who form Mumbai’s business community.
We will also visit the Tippereth Israel synagogue of the Bene Israelis and the Magen Hassidim if feasible. The tour will also take us through Marine Drive, High Court, Bombay University, Asiatic Library and Mani Bhavan which was Gandhi’s home in Mumbai.
Tour Details: This is a full day tour of approximately 8 hours, including lunch.
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Lalbaug Spice Market & Bhau Daji Laud Museum
Lalbaug Spice Market & Bhau Daji Laud Museum
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The Lalbaug area of Mumbai is the heart of the textile mill industry that flourished here in the 1800s to the late 1900s. This walk provides a great cultural introduction to the area and its people. We will explore the religious, economic, political and social fabric of this multi-cultural area which is home to Marathi-speaking Hindus as well as small communities of Parsis and Muslims.
As you walk through its busy streets, you can feel the pulse of the religious, social and economic vibrancy of India, even as the exotic smells of Indian spices wafts through your nose! Lalbaug's famous spice market of cinnamon, nutmeg, chillies, tobacco will tempt your purse!
Lalbaug is also known for its farsan or fried snack market called Chivda Galli, bustling vegetable & fish markets, and shops selling all types of general items. After the walk through buzzing markets, we will visit the BhauDaji Lad Museum which is located at Byculla zoo. In the zoo grounds, we can see the stone elephants from which Elephanta caves gets its name.
Tour Details: All days of the week, except Mondays and Wednesdays, beginning at 10:30 a.m at Lalbaug.
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The Worli Fishing Village Walk
The Worli Fishing Village Walk
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Ever wondered the meaning of the name Mumbai or from where it originated? Discover on the walk through the Worli fishing village and experience the old ways of life of the Kolis - the fisherfolk community of Mumbai. The patron deity of the Kolis is Mumba, which is the origin of the name of Mumbai. On this tour you can catch a glimpse of the life of the Kolis while they go about their daily routine of bringing in the morning catch. You can also go back in time during a visit to the historical Worli fort overlooking Mahim bay and built by the British in the 17th century.
Tour Details: All days of the week, starting at 10 a.m at Worli and lasting 2 hours.
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The Mumbai Fort Heritage Walk
The Mumbai Fort Heritage Walk
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Go back in times, marvelling through the Fort heritage district and be introduced to Mumbai’s British architecture. Fort George which gives the district its name, was demolished in the 1860s. Today the district is the financial center of India, but still has many of the historic buildings and landmarks built in many different styles of architecture. Every building has a story behind it. The Mumbai Fort Heritage Walk will give you fascinating insight into the historic events and people associated with them.
Tour Details: The tour can be conducted any day of the week, either in the morning or afternoon. The starting point is Asiatic Library and the duration will be about 2 hours.
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Day Trip to Elephanta Caves
Lalbaug Spice Market & Bhau Daji Laud Museum
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The Elephanta Caves are a World Heritage Site with evocative stone sculptures depicting various legends of Lord Shiva just off the coast of mainland Mumbai. The name Elephanta was given to the island by the Portuguese, who named it after a stone elephant they found at the place where they first landed. Dating back to around the 5th-8th centuries, the Elephanta caves are a splendid example of Indian rock-cut sculpture & architecture. The entire temple has been hewn from rock, including the courtyard, pillars and sculptures.
Elephanta is just off the coast of the busy center of Mumbai and an hour’s boat ride from the Gateway of India will get you to the island.
Each year, the Elephanta Dance Festival is held in February to commemorate the living heritage of Indian art. Renowned talented dancers and musicians perform in front of the caves, in the open air. Special catering and other services are provided for visitors during this festival.
Tour Details: Available all days of the week except Monday. The tour is not available from June to September.The tour will start at the Gateway of India at 9:00am and will take 4 to 5 hours.
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Dadar Market & Food Walk at Ranade Road
Dadar Market & Food Walk at Ranade Road
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A trip to India would be incomplete without checking out the local food of Mumbai! Ranade Road and Dadar market is the perfect place to start your gourmet experiment...on an empty stomach please!This area is popular for its Maharashtrian cuisine of mouth-watering masalas, pickles, snacks & delicacies. Your guide will point out to you interesting delicacies and the many food stalls that you will pass will tempt your taste buds. Be ready to hold up your nose as you pass through the fish market with huge piles of fish of many varieties that is very popular with Mumbaikars. You will end up with some delightful lunch at a café that specialises in the local vegetarian cuisine...if you still manage to have any room in your stomach!
Aside from a walk through the world of culinary delights, the tour will take you through the Indian wedding market selling eye-catching jewellery and bright sarees where you can stop and shop till you drop if you are interested. Fascinating Indian Puja items used in traditional Maharashtrian customs will also be available for purchase.
Tour Details: Available all days of the week except Mondays. The tour begins at 10:30 a.m. from Sena Bhavan. The tour will take 3-4 hours.
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The Humans of Mumbai - People of Bombay
The Humans of Mumbai - People of Bombay
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It's a common belief that Mumbai's greatest treasure is its great diversity of people. Many that have come to the city in search of a livelihood or chasing a dream and have made the city their home. This has led to an ever-changing fuse of multi-cultural dynamics in the city's psyche. Experience these riches of Mumbai's diverse people and culture of Kolis, Parsis, Jews, Christians, Muslims that coexist in harmony through the Humans of Mumbai trip.
Begin with the daily lives of the Kolis,the oldest fishing community & the original inhabitants of Mumbai. In fact, the name Mumbai comes from ‘Mumba’, the deity of the Kolis.
We will then drive to Colaba to see the Parsis, the Zoroastrian inhabitants of Mumbai, whose presence in India dates back more than ten centuries. The distinct culture of the Parsis has had a big influence on Mumbai’s culture and any exploration of Mumbai’s society would be incomplete without them.
Mumbai also has active Christian and Muslim communities in addition to the predominant Hindu populace, and we can capture a glimpse of their culture and identity over a visit.
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