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Himachal Pradesh
IOn arrival in Delhi, we set off immediately on a long drive along the historic and now a bustling expressway, the Grand Trunk Road, first built by the emperor Sher Shah Suri. The drive takes you through the Shivalik ranges and we gradually make our way to the middle Himalayan ranges to Manali.
Manali is a small hill station bustling with tourists. Start early next morning with a drive on the left bank of the River Beas to the village of Naggar, which is famous for the Russian artist Roerich’s gallery. Naggar also has a famous castle and the views around the area are spectacular. Return to Manali and drive to Solang, which is a paragliding and skiing zone.
The next morning, embark upon a day-long journey that takes you through the 13,000 foot high Rohtang pass and before descending into the valley of the River Chandra, over Kunzum. The entire drive is through landscape that will take your breath away. We first travel to the highlands of the left bank plateau for altitude acclimatization and return to Kaza for overnight stay. The visit includes Kye village (30 minutes), and the Kye Gompa, the largest monastery in Spiti. The drive upto Kibber village (30 minutes), which at 14,000 feet above sea level, is the road head for the trade route into Ladakh over the Parang La Pass. Continue to the village of Gette and Tashigang (1 hour), high up in the mountains. Time permitting, walk down a spectacular, steep, downhill trail to Kye Gompa, where jeeps pick you up for the drive back. Spend the evenng roaming the Kaza market, where you may find interesting local handicrafts.
After breakfast, prepare for a short drive to Langza village (90 minutes), located in a large high mountain meadow with the spectacular massif of Chau Chau Khang Nilda towering in the backdrop. Visit the Lang (temple) before stopping for lunch. The Lang is regarded to be the headquarters of all the deities in the valley and houses some old frescos and thangkas (paintings on silken canvas). After savouring a steaming local lunch at the homestay, we visit the village fossil centre accompanied by a field expert. Camp 1 The trek trail traverses along a natural fossil center with the opportunity to spot some rare relics of Spiti’s geological history. For most of the way you follow carefully laid out irrigation channels, getting an insight into the laborious and intricate system of water management. The trail runs parallel to the stunning Pasham Range with the peaks of Chau Chau Khang Nilda and Chau Chau Khang Namo forming a striking backdrop. The trail is rich in flora and spotting blue sheep is on the cards. We stay overnight in a tented camp. Camp 1 – Camp 2 The trail slowly winds itself over pasturelands and the day is spent marvelling at the magnificent and imposing stature of the grazing yaks and horses. The night is spent camping at a summer settlement of local villagers.
Camp 2 – After breakfast, travel on yaks to a vantage point from where you will get spectacular views of the valley. On the way back to Demul village, sample its local brew (arak). Located in one of the most remote areas of Spiti, this village has a very interesting legend associated with its foundation. After a warm lunch in a homestay, we visit some unique spots close to this village.
The route is primarily downhill and brings you to the valley floor of the Padang River. Follow the Lingti River thereafter which leads the company to the village of Lhalung. Visit the oldest Sarkhang temple and possibly one of the oldest trees (dating back to over a 1000 years) in Spiti. We have lunch and sample the warm hospitality of the mountain people. We transfer to Dhankhar by jeep for overnight stay. Dhankhar, the ancient capital of Spiti, is one of the most stunning locations in the Spiti valley. Dhankhar houses an ancient Monastery perched precariously between unique wind eroded structures. Remnants of the Dhankhar Fort, which housed the royal family of Spiti, still remain.
Embark upon an early morning hike (1 hour) up to the Dhankhar lake to get some stunning views of the confluence of the rivers Spiti and Pin, a 1000 mts below you. Set amidst stark bronze folds, Dhankhar Lake has its own story to tell. After breakfast, set off for Tabo, famous for its 1000-year-old monastery. Explore the monastery, meditation caves and the numerous temples at the monastery. In the evening we drive back to Kaza.
The last two days will pre-dominantly be spent in transit from Kaza to Manali and then Manali to Delhi, and yet, you’ll never tire of looking out the window at the spectacular landscapes that greet you round every bend!
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DAYSOn arrival in Delhi, we set off immediately on a long drive along the historic and now a bustling expressway, the Grand Trunk Road, first built by the emperor Sher Shah Suri. The drive takes you through the Shivalik ranges and we gradually make our way to the middle Himalayan ranges to Manali.
Manali is a small hill station bustling with tourists. Start early next morning with a drive on the left bank of the River Beas to the village of Naggar, which is famous for the Russian artist Roerich’s gallery. Naggar also has a famous castle and the views around the area are spectacular. Return to Manali and drive to Solang, which is a paragliding and skiing zone.
The next morning, embark upon a day-long journey that takes you through the 13,000 foot high Rohtang pass and before descending into the valley of the River Chandra, over Kunzum. The entire drive is through landscape that will take your breath away. We first travel to the highlands of the left bank plateau for altitude acclimatisation and return to Kaza for overnight stay. The visit includes Kye village (30 minutes), and the Kye Gompa, the largest monastery in Spiti. The drive upto Kibber village (30 minutes), which at 14,000 feet above sea level, is the road head for the trade route into Ladakh over the Parang La Pass.
Continue to the village of Gette and Tashigang (1 hour), high up in the mountains. Time permitting, walk down a spectacular, steep, downhill trail to Kye Gompa, where jeeps pick you up for the drive back. Spend the evenng roaming the Kaza market, where you may find interesting local handicrafts.Lhalung is the largest village in the Lingti valley and is famous for its 1000 year old temple ‘Serkhang’ (golden temple) and possibly one of the oldest trees (dating back to over a 1,000 years). Lhalung is also known for its cultural performances. Participate in and witness a cultural performance by the local folk artists and experience the warm hospitality of mountain people. An hours drive from Lhalung brings you to one of the most stunning locations in the Spiti valley, Dhankhar, the ancient capital of Spiti, which houses an ancient Monastery perched precariously between unique wind eroded structures.
Tabo is famous for its more than 1,000-year-old monastery. In 1996, the Tabo monastery celebrated its thousand years with a Kalachakra ceremony, which was presided over by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. Spend time exploring the monastery and its numerous temples, before heading to Giu (1 hour). Giu is the furthest and most isolated village of Spiti, lying close to the border of Tibet (China). Giu village is also interesting as the body of an old monk ( 675 years old) sitting in meditation still exists intact albeit mummified. It is said that the hair and nails of this monk are still growing. After exploring the village in the evening, head back to Tabo, to spend the night.
Drive to Langza village (2.5 hours), located in a large high mountain meadow with a beautiful mountain, Chau Chau Kang Nilda, towering above this village. Stumble upon evidence of the Tethy’s sea that existed here before the Indian mainland collided with the Tibetan plateau and formed the Himalayas, which are still rising today. Sea fossils can be found a short trek (~1 hour) away from the village. From here visit the ruins of an ancient monastery deserted a few decades ago. The monastery has a unique location and the locals have interesting interpretations and legends about its location. Thereafter continue to one of Asia’s highest villages, Komic (30 minutes) where you spend the night in a traditional homestay. Komic is also adorned by a legendary monastery. The day provides a fascinating insight into the Spiti way of life.
After an early (7 am) breakfast, drive back to Manali along the same route that we took to reach Kaza. Enroute you can visit Chandra Tal, the lake of the moon goddess. After crossing Kunzam La Pass (15,000 feet), time permitting, we take you on a short detour to Chandra Tal. Chandra Tal is placed between a low ridge and the main Kunzam range with an outlet into the Chandra river. The visit to Chandra Tal is dependent on road conditions and availability of time in the event that one has to walk to the lake.
We retrace our steps to Delhi via the long, but scenic 12 hour drive.
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DAYSIn the lap of the majestic Himalayas lies the state of Himachal Pradesh. Our stories from Himachal are that of a delicate but wonderful ecosystem.
Kerala
This journey starts at the scenic River Nila. After settling, we will take you on a leisurely cruise down the Nila on a Thoni (traditional boat). The cruise passes through stunning landscapes comprising small canals, rivers and backwaters of a relatively unknown area called Tirur. This trip goes through several small islands where various communities of toddy (coconot palm liquor) tappers, coir rope workers and fishing communities live. The boats used for the Thoni Cruise as well as the oarsmen are from the local communities. The cruise is an alternative, supplementary source of income for people who were otherwise engaged in disruptive activities such as illegal sand mining from the river-bed. Get your hands dirty learning pottery with local artisans, and watch them weave magic on clay. At the bell metal workshop witness the creation of intricate designs such as tea-pots and door locks, a craft confined to a few families in the region. The visit to the potter & bell metal community is an appreciation of the efforts to rehabilitate the traditional handicrafts in the area. Our visits expand the knowledge about the program and provide them financial support. During a magical evening, young folk artists will showcase the folk heritage of River Nila and you might easily find yourself singing & dancing along. Evening with the folk artists is part of a movement to revive the dying forms of folk art and music in the River Nila basin. Spend half of the day in interactive sessions with the masters of classical arts at Performing Arts School “Kalamandalam” and check into a rural farm stay for the evening. Spend time with a family of musicians. The musical trail is a journey to showcase the percussion culture of River Nila. A clinic on various kinds of musical instruments concludes with a performance extraordinaire by the talented group. After a simple homely lunch, we proceed to a home stay in Nilambur to relax and spend an evening discussing Kerala’s history, art and culture with the host.
Spend a day relaxing at the homestay. (Optional visits to the pottery making center or teak forest can be arranged). In the morning, move on to Beypore to visit an initiative set up to provide jobs for local weavers and preserve their rich traditional knowledge. The NGO gives opportunities for travelers to participate in the weaver’s workshops.
From Beypore we drive up to Wayanad (two and a half hours) and check into a beautiful hill-side property. Visit of the Edakkal caves to see the pictorial remnants of civilisation dating back to 5,000 BC. The next day you will spend the morning at lush green spice plantations as part of the spice tour, visiting various farms owned by local communities. After lunch at a local home, we vist Meenmutty waterfalls, which are tucked into a rainforest and can be approached only by a two-hour trek. Moving on, we check into another cute farm stay in the north of Wayanad. In the evening we take you on a beautiful safari inside the Tholpetty wildlife sanctuary, which is a biodiversity hotspot. The safari is a chance to spot the Asian elephants, bears, wild gaurs (bison), spotted and sambar deers or even a leopard.
Dedicated days of relaxation on a beautiful beach property. Optional activities & visits, such as to the Bekal Fort and some of the many temples of this region, can be arranged.
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DAYSLand at Cochin and check into a boutique hotel in the heritage quarter of the city. Check out Fort Cochin Jew town, synagogue, spice markets, the Dutch palace, St Francis Church and Chinese fishing nets.
Drive down to relax in the idyllic backwaters at Alleppey. Go onboard a houseboat for an overnight cruise. The houseboats cruise through the backwaters of Kuttanad – the rice bowl of Kerala. The banks of the waters will be lined with lush paddy fields, fishing nets, coconut grooves, and local villages. Soak in a sunset and sunrise on the water while enjoying a relaxed dining experience. Disembark from the houseboat for a short transfer to Karimbavalavu – a secluded island on the backwaters. There are six cottages overlooking the backwaters with nothing but breathtaking views for company. Known for its bird life, the island is a great stopover for relaxation. Cycling, village visits, and small trips in canoes are included.
Drive up direction north to the historic and scenic River Nila. Get your hands dirty learning pottery with local artisans, and watch them weave magic on clay. At the bell metal workshop witness the creation of intricate designs such as tea-pots and door locks, a craft confined to a few families in the region. The visit to the potter & bell metal community is an appreciation of the efforts to rehabilitate the traditional handicrafts in the area. Our visits expand the knowledge about the program and provide them financial support. During a magical evening, young folk artists will showcase the folk heritage of River Nila and you might easily find yourself singing & dancing along. Evening with the folk artists is part of a movement to revive the dying forms of folk art and music in the River Nila basin. Visit the beautiful 400-year-old heritage house Kooderi Mana, unique representative of sustainable life style. Stay with the family and experience a traditional rural Kerala ambience. In the midst of an organic farm, this heritage house is part of the responsible tourism initiative that is making positive changes to the destination. Spend time with a family of musicians in the village of Mulayankavu. The musical trail is a journey to showcase the percussion culture of River Nila. A clinic on various kinds of musical instruments concludes with a performance extraordinaire by the talented group. We will take you on a leisurely cruise down the Nila on a Thoni (traditional boat). The cruise passes through stunning landscape comprising small canals, rivers and backwaters of a relatively unknown area called Tirur. This trip goes through several small islands where various communities of toddy (coconot palm liquor) tappers, coir rope workers and fishing communities live. The boats used for the Thoni Cruise as well as the oarsmen are from the local communities. The cruise is an alternative, supplementary source of income for people who were otherwise engaged in disruptive activities such as illegal sand mining from the river-bed.
From Nila you will drive up to Nilambur (one hour) to check into Maranat Mana, a heritage property reflecting the age-old traditions of a Kerala Brahmin family. Focusing on sustainable living, this place strikes an excellent balance between traditional life style and modern living. The two-acre sacred grove inside the farm is a representation of a bio-diversity that is still sustained. Spend the day in the village or the majestic home stay. Activities (at no extra cost) include visits to farms and traditional bathing ghats.
Home to several spices, Wayanad now has a viable and vibrant spice cultivation program. From cardamom to cinnamon, pepper to ginger and even vanilla, you can see for yourself the abundance of spice all along the hills of Wayanad. The idea of a spice tour was conceived as an alternative source of income for small scale farmers and planters in Wayanad. Spice tours are also arranged in such a way that it gives travelers a taste of living a planter’s life. Enjoy the adrenaline rush of a morning wildlife safari in Muthanga wildlife sanctuary, a biodiversity hotspot. The 24-kilometre safari is a chance to spot the Asian elephants, bears, wild gaurs (bison), spotted and sambar deers or even a leopard. Post-lunch we visit, Uravu, where you can interact with the artisans and designers who create beautiful products out of different varieties of bamboo which are grown locally. The visit also includes interactions with the promoters and a visit to the bamboo nursery. The visit to the rainforest garden involves interaction with the community who initiated the rainforest regeneration and the latter half of the visit benefits the community living in the alternative school campus. Trek guides are from the local communities and they operate all programs. These are people who live on the fringes of the wildlife areas. All parts of our trek routes and campsites follow zero waste management. During and after every trek, we collect and dispose plastic waste that might have been left behind by other tourists and local people.
The costal town & area around Kannur is home to the most idyllic beaches in the Malabar region. If desired, travelers can embark upon a boat voyage to nearby towns, far from the crowds. Many traditional folk art forms can be witnessed in villages surrounding Kannur. Here you might want to relax on the beach near Kannur, or visit St Angelo Fort, Arakkal museum and the Cannanore Lighthouse. We can also take you to temples nearby for Theyyam performances.
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DAYSIn the North you will visit the beautiful coastal city of Calicut and travel to Wayanad by road (3 hours) with one of our storytellers. On the way you might want to visit Edakkal caves and its pictorial remnants of civilisation dating back to 5,000 BC. Enjoy the adrenaline rush of a wildlife safari in Muthanga wildlife sanctuary, a biodiversity hotspot in Wayanad. The 24-kilometre safari is a chance to spot the Asian elephants, bears, wild gaurs (bison), spotted and sambar deers or even a leopard. After a lunch in a local home, we take you on a Spice Tour, tea trail and finally cool off at a waterfall in the middle of a rainforest. Traditionally, Kerala is a major exporter of spice. Several communities have been engaged in the cultivation & plantation of spices since centuries. The Spice tours were started with the objective to support small farmers and spice planters in and around Wayanad as an alternative, supplementary source of income. The tour provides a glimpse into the lives with special focus on the struggles of spice farmers against fluctuating prices and globalisation.
Take a leisurely cruise down the historic and scenic river Nila on a Thoni (traditional boat), and end the day with a visit to Thunjan Parambu Literature Park and Vakkad beach on the banks of the river.
The boats used for the Thoni Cruise as well as the oarsmen are from the local communities. The cruise is an alternative, supplementary source of income for people who were otherwise engaged in disruptive activities such as illegal sand mining from the river-bed.
Get your hands dirty learning pottery with local artisans, and watch them weave magic on clay. At the bell metal workshop witness the creation of intricate designs such as tea-pots and door locks, a craft confined to a few families in the region.
The visit to the potter & bell metal community is an appreciation of the efforts to rehabilitate the traditional handicrafts in the area. Our visits expand the knowledge about the program and provide them financial support.
During a magical evening, young folk artists will showcase the folk heritage of River Nila and you might easily find yourself singing & dancing along.
Evening with the folk artists is part of a movement to revive the dying forms of folk art and music in the River Nila basin.
Spend half of the day in interactive sessions with the masters of classical arts at Performing Arts School Kalamandalam
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Our naturalist will lead you on a light trek through the wilderness of this beautiful sanctuary, which is comprised of tropical evergreen and deciduous forests. You might even want to choose to end this day camping under the starlit sky by the rainforest and rise for and early session of bird-watching.
Fort Cochin is a fabled melting pot of culture, and you find this reflected in every corner of the city. Accompanied by a local storyteller, you will visit Jew town, the synagogue, the spice market, Dutch palace, St Francis Church and the Chinese fishing nets & lively promenade - a heritage walk that gives you a peek into the still-very-present past, as well as the vibrant local texture of today. Attend a rendition of the world-renowned Kathakali dance performance in the evening at a theatre in Fort Cochin.
This wildlife reserve is the home of the regal Royal Bengal Tiger. The visit begins with a light three-hour night trek to explore the wonders of life in the jungle after dusk. You can also choose to spend an entire day trekking and rafting on bamboo rafts along the scenic Periyar Lake. A day like this offers a good chance of spotting wildlife in close quarters. In Periyar and Chimmony, the nature driven experiences are operated by members of the local community belonging to the Eco Development Committees (EDCs). The benefits are transferred directly to the community members. Trekking assistants and guides were mostly poachers and the entire program in Periyar was designed to rehabilitate them. All parts of our trek routes and campsites follow zero waste management. During and after every trek, we collect and dispose plastic waste that might have been left behind by other tourists and local people.
The idyllic backwaters of Kumarakom are about 10kms from Kottayam and are considered the most beautiful backwater stretch in Kerala. Here you can wind down and relax at a backwater resort in Kumarakom. Visit the harbor city of Alleppey and check into a luxurious houseboat for a leisurely overnight backwater cruise. Enjoy the dining experience on board and watch as time slows down to a crawl against the idyllic backdrop of the backwaters. The houseboat drops you at Alleppey and then you transfer to a beach resort in Marari (45-minutes) for relaxing moments of leisure.
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In the North you will visit the beautiful coastal city of Calicut and travel to Wayanad by road (3 hours) with one of our storytellers. On the way you might want to visit Edakkal caves and its pictorial remnants of civilisation dating back to 5,000 BC. Enjoy the adrenaline rush of a wildlife safari in Muthanga wildlife sanctuary, a biodiversity hotspot in Wayanad. The 24-kilometre safari is a chance to spot the Asian elephants, bears, wild gaurs (bison), spotted and sambar deers or even a leopard. After a lunch in a local home, we take you on a Spice Tour, tea trail and finally cool off at a waterfall in the middle of a rainforest. Traditionally, Kerala is a major exporter of spice. Several communities have been engaged in the cultivation & plantation of spices since centuries. The Spice tours were started with the objective to support small farmers and spice planters in and around Wayanad as an alternative, supplementary source of income. The tour provides a glimpse into the lives with special focus on the struggles of spice farmers against fluctuating prices and globalisation. Trek up the magnificent Chembra Peak, the highest point in Northern Kerala. The peak is in the midst of high-altitude shola grasslands and offers panoramic views all round. It’s a moderately tough trek at about four hours, with the chance of spotting wildlife in the early hours. After descending we rest for the day at a boutique hotel/homestay.
From Waynad you will travel to Silent Valley (3 hours), one of the world’s most treasured biodiversity hotspots, and set up a camp at a property near the jungle. On the next day we will travel uphill by jeep to reach the Sairandhri Forest Camp. Silent valley has one of the largest viable breeding populations of lion tailed macaques, a true arboreal monkey - a highly endangered species and a good population of birds, butterflies and orchids. A small trek will lead you through the rainforest to Kunthipuzha, which flows through the valley.
Our naturalist will lead you on a light trek through the wilderness, which comprises of tropical evergreen and deciduous forests. The day ends camping under the starlit sky by the rainforest.
Drive on to Thattekad Bird Sanctuary (2 hours), a paradise to observe birds. Ornithologists have identified more than 253 species of birds in the 25.16 sq km area. Here you will stay overnight in a forest camp.
Munnar is a breathtakingly beautiful hill station known for its misty col climate, tea plantations and forests. Enjoy the sense of space while you stroll through the tea plantations, or just sit back, and unwind as you switch-off, sip on some exotic tea & watch the world pass you by – trust us, it’s worth it.
A 2 h drive from Munnar will take you to Chinnar Wildlife Sancturary and trek upwards through the jungle to Vysapara Hills, which is an excellent spot for spotting wildlife. We camp overnight in a jungle hut. The next morning we continue to trek and follow a river. The forest’s vegetation, dry & deciduous, makes it easy to spot wildlife while on foot. The terrain will be undulating with rocky patches that add to the scenery.
From Chinner the journey goes on to Periyar (5.5 hours) where we catch the night patrol at dusk. The naturalist will take you to observe and listen to the jungle in the dark, guided by torchlight. Next day, trek during the day and use bamboo rafts to navigate Periyar lake. 63 species of mammals have been recorded in this protected area, along with 323 species of birds. All the species endemic to the Western Ghats except the Nilgiri Laughing Thrush are found here. Out of the 119 species of butterflies recorded, 20 are Western ghat are endemic. From Periyar we move base to Vallakkadavu Camp (2 hours). We go for a short trek around the camp and stay overnight in tents. One of the most unique eco-tourism programs in India, this program supports people who live on the fringes of the forests as trackers, guides and interpreters. Due to several ‘social re-engineering’ and political decisions, many of the tribal people have been forced to leave the forest and are no longer associated with it in their day-to-day activities. This particular trip focuses on their role as care takers of the forest, its resources and wildlife, and by doing so also assures them a decent livelihood with dignity. Sustainable income through responsible tourism ensures increasing interest amongst local community members, which in turn supports conservation of wildlife and forest resources. Poaching, forest fires and brewing illicit liquor in forest areas have been reported by our assistants and trackers. The authorities have successfully handled these activities with support from VSS (Forest Protection Committee) and EDCs (Eco Development Committee). Except in the rare case of communication problems in terms of naturalist’s interpretation, all the associates in this program are locals. The now famous ‘Periyar Model’ has successfully rehabilitated several former poachers as protectors. The majority of the accommodation used in this itinerary is operated by local community members belonging to the Eco Development Committees (EDCs) and supported by our team of naturalists and professionals. The benefits are transferred directly to the community members and are not token gestures.
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DAYSAlong 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.
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DAYSKerala’s folklore, like its landscapes is immense, vibrant and extremely colorful.
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DAYSThe communities spread along the banks of River Nila are anything but shy when it comes to skilled handiwork and craftsmanship!
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DAYSThe dynamics of River Nila are complex and precarious. A vibrant & thriving bunch of communities flourished around its banks for centuries.
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DAYSThe rich history of Kerala goes back several centuries; naturally, its bounty of stories, legends and civilzations is wholesome and plentiful.
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DAYSIn 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.
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DAYSThe Handloom industry in Kerala is a work of art in itself! Fine weaving & handspun cotton are the landmarks of Chennamangalam for years.
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DAYSAfter 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
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DAYSOn the south-west coast of India lies one of the smallest state of the country - Kerala! Renowned for its stunning backwaters, the spellbinding green lands and its many vibrant cultures.
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DAYSAn 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.
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DAYSClose to a century of French occupation has left a distinct stamp in the cultural inheritance of Pondicherry.
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DAYSA 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.
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DAYSThis 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.
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DAYSThis 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.
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DAYSPondicherry & 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.
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DAYSThe story of Auroville has consciously been built around principles of immersive community development with key focus on sustainability through innovation.
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DAYSFor many years, Pondicherry’s allure has been the evident French influence on the town; but we discovered there is so much more to this place than meets the eye.
Arrive in Jaipur, where our representatives greet you and transfer you to a luxury home stay near the airport. Meet the wonderful owners of the homestay, who also run an NGO that supports HIV positive children in Jaipur. Their insight into the culture, tradition and history of Rajasthan are a wonderful introduction for a traveler to the Rajput state of India. Learn about some of the social issues she is trying to address within her personal capacity as you spend your night amidst some wonderful company. In the morning, visit the city palace and look up for the flag and if you see it you know the Maharaja is in the palace! Walk around the uniquely constructed city, and understand the history of the place. Option to visit Amber fort. For the night, return to your cozy homestay again.
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After a late breakfast, walk inside the lanes of Pushkar. You may encounter people from remote parts of the world in the quest of finding their inner self. Hinduism is a thought process and this you can see in Pushkar. Enjoy a meal overlooking the lake. Spend time visiting the Brahma temple and if you are lucky meet a Yogi meditating near the lake. The day will pass leisurely, before we transfer you to the hotel.
After breakfast on the next morning, leave for Roopengarh - a desolate Fort where once a Mughal spent a night) In the afternoon, visit Roopengarh village. Meet various artisans, weavers, Gota maker, Durry maker and Potters. Understand how Rural India is connected to commerce through handicrafts. The Handicraft industry is one of the biggest occupations in India after agriculture. Spend the night at Roopengarh.
On the next morning, leave for Guda Village near Makrana, where you will experience a Village stay for 2 nights. The 2 day stay will give you unparalleled insight into the many issues that form the core of the challenges faced by contemporary India, such as women empowerment, social conditions, Health, Education, livelihood issues, etc. The days spent in the Gudda Village take you to the ‘bastis’ of these artists, where you can participate in workshops on puppetry. The focus of workshops will be to explore how puppetry can be used in the modern days to convey the message of literacy, health, hygiene and primary education. The guests get to make these puppet and learn from the masters who are traditional artists. Spend the evening with the Bhopa community: The feudal stories of Papuji Rathore is sung by the members of Bhopa community in the evenings post sunset. As typical of our holidays, the performances are not organised in hotels or resorts, instead we invite our travellers to our villages to meet and interact with the communities and understand more about their social backgrounds and enjoy the ritualistic traditions. You will also get opportunity to visit a local school and interact with children. In the evening house ladies will put Mehendi !! Overnight stay at Makrana Village.
Early next morning, drive to Mandore near Jodhpur (6.5hrs drive). Arrive at Mandore and proceed to Mandore Guest House. Mandore guest house provides great opportunity to work with volunteers of the NGO supported by the family. If you possess any specific skills that you’d like to share, do let us know; we can connect you with the local partner who will match the skills, provided there is a need for such voluntary engagement. Visit the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort and the bazaar. Overnight in Mandore/Jodhpur. A plethora of activities are possible in Mandore, ranging from Bird watching and cycling to a nearby village to see the rural projects. Jeep Safari to Bishnoi village is also offered by the hosts at Mandore Guest House. Overnight stay at Mandore/Jodhpur.
On the 10th morning, drive to Siana (3.5hrs drive), a quaint little town and a less explored destination in Rajasthan. Your hosts here are famous for their hospitality. In the evening, go for a Panther safari, followed by overnight in Siana. Begin the following day with a village walk and explore the carpentry culture of Siana. Visit a traditional carpenter’s house to see their pieces of work. Drive across the dry river bed and meet with the Rabari community, the traditional shepherds of this region. Go on a panther trail at dusk and come back to immerse yourself in stargazing. Overnight in Siana.
The Aravallis welcome you to Udaipur via Ranakpur temples (5hrs). Stroll along the lakes and the narrow lanes, each with a unique character as you discover Rajasthan’s most romantic city - Updaipur, where you will spend the evening and night at your leisure. The next day, embark upon a guided tour of the City Palace, Saheliuon Ki Bari and Jagdish Temple. Don’t forget to shop to your heart’s extent; from authentic jewellery to colourful clothes and wooden toys, Udaipur will never disappoint on this front. Go on a guided tour visiting City palace, Saheliyon Ki bari and Jagdish Temple. We can also organize a cuisine trail on your last day in Rajasthan. The evening is reserved for a serene boat ride on Lake Pichola with a setting sun for company. On the last day, transfer to the airport for onward journey.
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DAYSThe Rustic Rural Rajasthan is a trail through the Rajput lands. Join us as we traverse through the desert land, dotted by colourful villages and adorned by thousands of folk-arts & handicrafts. This tour gives travellers a real insight into the extreme balance of life the characterises Rajasthan – on one end of the spectrum are the spectacular forts & majestic havelis, while at the same time, a good section of the Rajasthani populace is amongst the poorest in the country.
Arrive at Delhi and proceed on a guided tour of Lutyens New Delhi. We take you through this beautifully planned quarter of the city that is home to important, and architecturally relevant structures such as the Parliament, Rashtrapati Bhavan (president’s residence) and India Gate. We finish the tour of Delhi with sunset at the Qutb Complex, which is home to the Qutb Minar, the tallest minaret in India and the Iron Pillar which is one of the wonders of India. Spend the night in the capital city of India. Wake up early next morning to go on a guided history walk through old Delhi. Visit the various eateries in the narrow crowded lanes of the legendary Chandni Chowk and taste Delhi through its delicacies (Karims – the most authentic Mughlai eatery). Visit the Kinari bazaar - tightly packed stalls selling bewildering array of tinsel and sequins. Dariba Kalan is the lane of jewellers and silversmiths. Rickshaw ride is the best way to explore if you feel tired of walking in the narrow lanes. Board an afternoon train to Bharatpur 2060 exp 1320/1543. Arrive and transfer to accommodation near the park. If time permits, we can have a quick stroll around this wonderful natural paradise before retiring for the night.
Wake up early in the morning to hear the orchestra of birds in the Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Drive after lunch to Ranthambore National Park (5.5 hours drive) home to one of the largest populations of the Royal Bengal Tiger. Spend the night at a cozy guesthouse/homestay inside the National Park. Early next morning, embark upon another safari in your quest to spot the majestic Bengal tiger and thereafter leave for Bijaipur (6.5 hours drive). On the way, take a small pit-stop at Bundi, famous for its medieval fort. You have the rest of the evening free to discover Bijaipur at your leisure.
The next morning, go for an early morning village safari around Bijaipur, a rocky area dominated by green fields and forests. After seeing the picturesque terrain of Bijaipur, drive to Udaipur (3 hours drive). Explore the city at your lesiure in the evening before an retiring for the night. Spend the entire day in Rajasthan’s most romantic city, Udaipur. This side of Rajasthan has been widely photographed and showcased but is still worth savouring. Your day will consist of a boat ride on lake Picola, Bazaar Walks and Guided tours of the City.
Leave early in the morning for Kumbhalgarh (4 hours drive), which is nestled within greenery and serenity. Visit the Kumbalgarh Fort, which is at one of the highest points in the Aravalli range and encloses many temples, palaces, gardens and water-storage facilities. The fort was renovated in the last century. Overnight in Kumbhalgarh.
The next morning begins with a day excursion to Ranakpur – an 8 hour trek. The trek takes you through the wild side of amazing forests and hills. Chances of spotting wildlife is quite high. Arrive in Ranakpur and visit the famous Jain temples which have been preserved since 15th century. In the evening drive back to Kumbhalgarh and enjoy a well-deserved night of rest.
Narlai located mid way between Udaipur-Jodhpur takes you back in time. Here, an extremely authentic Rajput stay - Rawla (villa) nestled in the village bustling with activity and bursting with colors awaits you.
The next morning, drive towards Jodhpur (3hrs drive) and spend the rest of the day exploring Jodhpur, a city punctuated amply by gardens, monuments and legends. We visit the massive Meherangarh fort, Jodhpur’s old town and the Mandore gardens before settling down at your hotel for a relaxed evening and night. After breakfast on the following morning, explore the Bishnoi villages around Jodhpur and learn about their lifestyle, which is devoted to the environment and protection of wild life.
On the 12th morning, we drive to Jaisalmer (6.5 hours drive), the city which is at the heart of the vast Thar desert. On the way we make a pit-stop at Pokharan, a traditional pottery village. Try your hand at pottery and take back what you mould. At Jaisalmer we explore the fort and interact with the locals, before settling down for the night. You next day will consist of guided tours of the Golden Fort, Jain Temple, Gadisar tank and Havelis. From late afternoon onwards, you’ll have the rest of the day free to explore the city at your leisure.
Spend the penultimate day of your holiday walking through the wonderful streets of Jaisalmer until your departure to Delhi by train. The train ride passes through desert sands, rustic landscapes and colourful settlements – a fitting last glimpse of Rajasthan. Arrive in Delhi on the 15th day and prepare for onward journey.
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DAYSArrive in Jaipur – the Pink City, where a transfer to your hotel/homestay awaits you. Explore the dimly lit capital city of Rajasthan at leisure and marvel at its impecabble town planning. In the evening, visit a nearby village to attend a Folk and Puppetry program and interact with the wonderful people that create and perform these works-of-art! The Blue Yonder supports these artisans in partnership of Kalakar Vikas samiti . This is also a wonderful opportunity to buy directly from the artisans themselves with large varieties of small puppets, trinkets, hanging elephants, bangles etc. to choose from. Your purchases directly support the artisans and their craftsmanship. Return to Jaipur for overnight stay. The next morning, visit the city palace and look out for the hoisted flag, it is an indicator of whether the Maharaja is at the palace or not. We take you on a walk around the uniquely constructed city, and study its planning. You have an option to visit Amber fort or indulge in responsible shopping at fair trade shops. Overnight in Jaipur.
Early next morning, drive into the ruggedly beautiful Shekhawati region (4 hours). We take you on a walk through the town of Nawalgarh to explore its havelis, before settling down for a peaceful evening/night. Wake up early morning and choose from a range of activities such as cycle trips, camel rides and even horse rides, cooking demos, etc. For women travelers, we strongly recommend checking out the famous Mehendi (Indian Tattoo). Overnight in Nawalgarh.
In the morning, drive to Khimsar via Fatehpur (5 hours) and visit some exquisitely built havelis. Check into a sensitively designed desert camp and settle in to experience a dazzling sunset. On the following morning, join us on a visit to the weaving centre supported by a local foundation that has been engaging local women from the nearby villages. You can interact with the women to understand where they come from and learn the art of weaving before returning to camp and soak in the incredible vastness and serenity of the desert!
In the morning, we drive to Chandelao, a quaint village renowned for some of the best food in these parts of the world. Here you get to meet some wonderful craftsmen – from potters to folk artists. Count on your hosts here to make your stay a memorable experience. In the evening, embark upon a ‘sundowner’ trip at camel pace. Overnight in Chandelao. After breakfast the next morning, you can go to the local markets around the town of Pipar or watch migratory birds at a nearby bird sanctuary. Share a lunch or dinner with the locals, as they recount magical tales that speak of the history of the fort and the feudal system of these lands. Retire for the night in Chandelao.
The following morning, drive down to Rohetgarh (3 hours). On the way, visit the massive Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur; meander through its passages, with stories and history mapping centuries for company. The drive to Rohet is via the famous Bishnoi villages. The Bishnois are known for being the original environmentalists who would give their lives to protect the environment. Experience the inspiration of their will power. The present rulers of Rohetgarh are known for their warmth and hospitality. The stables of Rohetgarh have the best Marwari breed of horses in Rajasthan. Overnight in Rohet. Stroll around the picturesque village of Rohetgarh. Your time in Rohet is at your leisure, allowing you some time to catch up with and reflect on everything you’ve witnessed so far. For the equestrian enthusiasts, optional horse riding sessions await you.
Early next morning, drive to Siana, a quaint little town, and a less explored destination in Rajasthan. The hosts are famous for their hospitality. Spend the night under open skies with stars and constellations for company. Rise early and join us on a village walk to explore the culture of Siana, a town that whose economy revolves around carpentry. Visit traditional carpenters at their homes to see their pieces of work. Drive across a dry river bed and meet with the Rabari community, the traditional shepherds of this region. Explore the village with the adorable sheep for company! Go on a panther safari at dusk and return to your camp to immerse yourself in stargazing.
The Aravallis welcome you into Udaipur. Stroll along the lakes and the narrow lanes, each with a unique character as you discover Rajasthan’s most romantic city. Walk around the bazaar streets and take back some wooden toys and authentic silver accessories. On your last day with us, you can go on a guided tour of the city, before we transfer you to the airport for onward journey to Mumbai/Delhi.
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DAYSOn arrival in Delhi, check in to your hotel and after a short rest, join us on a guided tour of Lutyens New Delhi. We take you through this beautifully planned quarter of the city that is home to important, and architecturally relevant structures such as the Parliament, Rashtrapati Bhavan (president’s residence) and India Gate. Finish the tour of Delhi with sunset at the Qutb Complex, which is home to the Qutb Minar, the tallest minaret in India and the Iron Pillar, which is one of the wonder’s of India. Return to your hotel for overnight stay. Early next morning go on a guided history walk through old Delhi (not available on Sundays). Visit the many eateries in the narrow crowded lanes of Chandni Chowk and taste Delhi through its delicacies (including Karims, the most authentic Mughlai eatry), Visit the Kinari bazaar - tightly packed stalls selling a bewildering array of tinsel and sequins, Dariba Kalan is the lane of jewellers and silversmiths. You could also opt for a rickshaw ride, which is the best way to explore if you feel tired of walking in the narrow lanes. Visit the Jama Masjid - India’s largest mosque with its soaring minarets. On return to Hotel visit Rajghat, site of Mahatama Gandhi’s cremation. You have the rest of the day to relax or explore at your leisure.
On the next day, we drive down to Agra (5.5 hours), the home of the Taj Mahal. Our first stop in Agra is Sikandra, a tomb built by Emperor Akbar and finished by his son Jehangir. We also visit the Agra fort and examine the exquisite architecture of the Mughal empire. Overnight in Agra.
The morning is reserved for exploring one of the seven wonders of the world – the Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in loving memory of his wife Mumtaz. On your way to Ranthambore, stop over at Emperor Akbar’s city Fatehpur Sikri. Overnight in Ranthambore. Ranthambore National Park is home to one of the biggest populations of the Royal Bengal Tiger and its terrain and foliage offers the best chances to spot the magnificent big cats. We go on an early morning safari and a late evening one. The day is spent visiting shops nearby that sell local crafts and garments. Overnight in Ranthambore.
Embark upon a 3 hr drive to The Pink City of India - Jaipur. Set foot into one of the best planned cities in India. In the afternoon visit the City Palace and Observatory and walk in the bazaars. In the evening attend the Folk and Puppetry programs in a nearby village. Meet the authentic performers working in partnership with The Blue Yonder. This is also a wonderful opportunity to buy directly from the artisans themselves with large varieties of small puppets, trinkets, hanging elephants, bangles etc. to choose from. Your purchases directly support the artisans and their craftsmanship. Overnight in Jaipur
The next morning, drive further north to Nawalgarh (4 hours) in the Shekhawati region, famous for its shrub and desert landscapes. We visit the Amer Fort enroute. Nawalgarh is home to more than 200 ancient havelis, and we walk you through the village visiting a few of them. After a good night’s rest, prepare yourself for an enjoyable day as you pick through a choice of activities such as cycle trips, camel rides and even horse rides, combined with culinary trails and cooking demonstrations. Ladies can try their hand at the famous Mehendi (Indian Tattoo). Overnight in Nawalgarh.
Next morning, leave for Bikaner (4hrs drive), a desert city and the most arid part of Rajasthan. Enjoy the unique eateries of Bikaner. Walk along the sand dunes of this desert city. Visit the majestic Junagarh Fort and National Research Centre on Camel (Camel breeding farm) and visit the camel museum. Participate in an interactive lecture held by a traditional camel breeder. Overnight in Bikaner. Next morning, drive out of Bikaner (3hrs drive) and stop over at the Karni Mata Temple, where thousands of rats are worshipped. (Spotting a white Rat is considered to bring good fortune). Enter the silent village of Bhap and go on a village walk. Spend some time by yourself and relax. Over night at Bhap.
Drive through the spectacular landscape of the Thar desert to reach the city of Jaisalmer (4 hours). In the afternoon, Visit the Khuri Sand dunes for a camel ride and see experience a unique sun-set over the desert landscape. Return to Jaisalmer for the night’s stay. Early next morning, embark upon a guided tour of the Golden Fort, Jain Temple, Gadisar tank and Havelis. You have the rest of the day to yourself to explore the wonderful city at your leisure.
Drive to Jodhpur on the following day (7 hours). On the way, visit Pokharan, a village where we see families still practising the ancient art of pottery. Overnight in Jodhpur. In the morning, we first visit Mehrangarh Fort, which forms the backdrop for what is known as the Blue City. Visit the clock tower and explore the bazaar street which still resembles a market from the 1500s. Overnight in Jodhpur.
Set off for Udaipur next morning, via the Jain temples in Ranakpur - 4hrs drive. The beautiful Jain Temples are made of soft sandstone with panels that are sensual and remind you of Khajuraho temples.. Thereafter, proceed onwards to Udaipur – a further 2 hrs drive. Arrive and check in at a hotel near the lake with the rest of the day at your leisure. Early next morning, spend a day exploring Rajasthan’s most romantic city, Udaipur. The city is known for it’s authentic jewellery , colourful clothes and wooden toys. Go on a guided tour spanning the City palace, Saheliyon Ki bari and Jagdish Temple. We can also organize a cuisine trail on your last day in Rajasthan. In the evening go for a boat ride on lake Pichola and watch the sun set beyond Udaipur’s beautiful horizon In the morning, transfer to airport/railway station from whence you depart onwards for next destination.
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DAYSThe Colors of Rajasthan combines the monumental highlights of Rajasthan and the Golden Triangle area, with the vast riches of its cultural treasures to form the crux of an eventful experiential holiday. The trip attempts to sensitise our travellers to the hardships of this land and the strong will of its people, while also introducing them to the riches of Rajasthan's traditional and contemporary array of folk-arts, handicrafts & fine-arts.
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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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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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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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DAYSThis 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.
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DAYSThe 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.
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DAYSThis 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.
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DAYSFor many, Rajasthan is known as the vast desert-state in the far-west of India; but there’s so much more to this erstwhile princely state.
Sikkim
With no airports or flights in Sikkim, arrive at Bagdogra in Northern Bengal and make the 4½ hour drive to your resort in Rumtek. You have the rest of the evening at your leisure to explore the resort and town at your pace.
After breakfast, the first half of the next day is reserved for exploring Rumtek, especially its 16th century monastery, which is the home of the Karmapa. You will also get time to experience the colorful bazaars at Rumtek. Later, drive to Pastenga (2.5 hours) to visit KEEP (Khedi Ecotourism and Eco Development Promotion), a community based organization. The organization focuses on developing sustainable tourism in these villages. It manages all the homestays and also actively participates in generating health & environment awareness in the village. They also conduct vocational training for the local communities.
The next morning, trek through a lush green rainforest for about five hours to reach Khedi. As you ascend higher, witness the vegetation change from thick conifers to Rhododendron Forests. Huge rock cliffs and caves are seen all along the way and birds are found in every creek. As twilight falls, we set up camp in a tent and enjoy a dinner and a night’s sleep under the unwavering watch of a star-filled sky. The next morning, we explore Khedi’s alpine pastures. From these pastures, the views of the snow clad mountain ranges are simply spectacular. There are two alpine lakes where during the winter months, migrating birds can be seen, especially ducks. The pastures are scenic and as evening falls, you’ll find yourself short of time to explore every nook and corner!
The following day, make your way back to Pastanga. As you tread back to the village, our naturalist will lead you across other villages where you can stop for tea and observe the daily activities of the village. We take a different route and arrive late in the afternoon. In the evening, experience a splendid cultural program arranged by the villagers/homestay operators. The folk dance is performed by the youth of the community while the older people sing songs and play traditional instruments.
In the morning, drive to Gangtok & visit the Handicraft Center and Flower Show. (Best Season: March & April). The evening can be spent interacting with locals or exploring the capital city at your own pace. On the last day, depart for Bagdogra (4.5 hours drive) for onward journey.
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DAYSGlimpses of Sikkim is a short, 7 day trip through the mysteries of this wonderful mountainous state. Visit some of Sikkim's famous monasteries, community based projects and experience some light treks in its beautiful valleys.
With no airports or flights in Sikkim, arrive at Bagdogra in Northern Bengal and make the 4½ hour drive to Gangtok. You have the rest of the evening at your leisure to explore the capital city of Sikkim at your pace.
We visit the Handicraft Centre and Institute of Tibetology and then drive to your resort in Rumtek for lunch. The afternoon is spent hiking the hills around the resort.
Visit the old and new Rumtek Monastery, which is the seat of the Karmapa. We then drive and walk through the terraced paddy fields of Martam. After crossing the Teesta River, drive uphill to Temi Tea gardens. Embark upon a tour of the Temi Tea Gardens, visit the tea factory and observe tea processing.
Drive up to the Biodiversity Park and walk along the temperate forest for an hour. Visit Tendong hill and return to Damthang for lunch. In the evening, we drive to Namchi for the night’s stay. Explore Namchi, which commands panoramic views of the snow-capped himalayas. Visit the Boomtar Blind School and participate in activities with the school children.
Drive via Kamrang village to Reshi Hot Springs. After lunch at the hot springs, drive via Legship to Dalep Village, and then walk along the rolling hills to Kewzing village for the night’s stay. On the next morning, drive to Ralang Monastery, which houses a large collection of rare paintings and thangkas. On the return journey, walk for an hour towards Ravangla for lunch. In the evening, walk/drive to Bon Monastery, and then walk to Kewzing village via Doling Monastery. In the evening, experience a timeless cultural programme arranged by the local community.
The next morning, we leave for Pemayangste in West Sikkim. Visit the Pemayangste Monastery, one of the oldest in Sikkim dating back to the 17th century, and discover the fascinating legend behind it.
After breakfast, drive to Khecheopalri Lake, which is sacred for both Hindus and Buddhists. Legend says if you make a wish at this lake, it is always fulfilled. From the lake we hike down to Rathong bridge, cross a river and drive to Yuksam, where you will spend the rest of the evening and the night. Spend the next morning at Dubdi monastery, where the first king of Sikkim was crowned and visit Norbugang – the Corornation Throne. In the evening, join us on a visit to the Khangchendzonga National Park. Walk for an hour and on the return visit the Khangchendzonga Conservation Committee (KCC) visitor information centre to interact with its members. On the last day, we head back to Bagdogra (5 hours drive) for onward journey.
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DAYSSikkim is renowned for its monasteries. The strong Buddhist influence on the hill-state is an effect of its proximity to Tibet & Bhutan. This 10 day itinerary primarily focuses on introducing travellers to the Monasteries of Sikkim. Trekking, Outdoor activities & Community Projects also included in limited capacity.
With no airports or flights in Sikkim, arrive at Bagdogra in Northern Bengal and make the 4½ hour drive to Gangtok. You have the rest of the evening at your leisure to explore the capital city of Sikkim at your pace.
Visit the Handicraft Centre and Institute of Tibetology and then drive to your resort in Rumtek. In the evening, visit the Rumtek monastery, a 16th century monastery, which is the home of the Karmapa.
The nex day, drive through the hills to Dzongu in North Sikkim. En route, stop midway at Kabi Lungchok, which is said to be the site of the blood brotherhood treaty between Lepchas and Bhutias. We visit the Phodong and Labrang monasteries and reach Namprikdang and settle down for the night. The next day, from Namprikdang, hike uphill for 3 hours to Lingthem village. After Lunch at Lingthem village, explore it and interact with the local people. We visit the handicraft center and monastery of Lingthem. The next morning, hike downhill to Passingdang and drive to Tingvong village. After Lunch at Tingvong village, we explore it and interact with members of the local community. Begin the next day with a hike to Kusong village, pass through lush paddy fields and cardamom forests. Observe the spectacular mountain views of Khangchendzonga and experience the Lepcha way of life. In the evening, we return to Tingvong village for overnight stay. From Tingvong, drive to the Lingzya monastic school for an interaction with the monks. On the way stop at Rukshyot waterfalls, the highest waterfall in Sikkim and soak in the pristine surroundings. Later, join us on a hike to Bay village. On the following morning, embark upon a moderate trek to Tholung Monastery (4 hours). This ancient monastery is believed to be built by spirits. The sacred objects and artifacts are opened for tourists only once in every three years. Return to Bay village in the afternoon, where you have the rest of the day off at your leisure. On the 9th day, hike down to Lingzya and drive to Hee Gyathang. Rendezvous with some local NGO members & become acquainted with their work in these lands. Later, we go for a walk around the village in the evening.
After a good night’s rest, drive to Kalimpong via Dikchu and Singtam. In the evening we take you to visit the flower nurseries in Kalimpong. The next morning, visit the Lepcha Museum and interact with intellectual Lepchas who have been working for the welfare of Lepcha tribal community. On the last day, transfer to Bagdogra for onward journey.
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DAYSThis journey through the fabled Mayel Lyang traverses through remote, desolate landscapes. Often surrounded by nothing but limitless natural wonder, this trip introduces travellers to the lifestyle of the Lepcha people. Visit their many monasteries and marvel at their many artefacts.
With no airports or flights in Sikkim, arrive at Bagdogra in Northern Bengal and make the 4½ hour drive to Gangtok. You have the rest of the evening at your leisure to explore the capital city of Sikkim at your pace.
After a good night’s sleep, drive to the beautiful Pastenga village, located 35 km away from Gangtok. Travelers have the option to either stay here for a day or start the trek to Khedi, along the Malingo Trail (bamboo trail).
On the next morning, we embark upon a trek through lush green rainforest for about five hours to reach Khedi. As you ascend higher, witness the vegetation change from thick conifers to Rhododendron Forests. Huge rock cliffs and caves are seen all along the way and birds are found in every creek. As twilight falls, we set up camp in a tent and enjoy a dinner and a night’s sleep under the unwavering watch of a star-filled sky. Wake up in the morning and set out to explore Khedi’s alpine pastures. From these pastures, the views of the snow clad mountain ranges are simply spectacular. There are two alpine lakes where during the winter months, migrating birds can be seen, especially ducks. The pastures are scenic and as evening falls, you’ll find yourself short of time to explore every nook and corner!
The following day, make your way back to Pastanga. As you tread back to the village, our naturalist will lead you across other villages where you can stop for tea and observe the daily activities of the village. We take a different route and arrive late in the afternoon. In the evening, experience a splendid cultural program arranged by the villagers/homestay operators. The folk dance is performed by the youth of the community while the older people sing songs and play traditional instruments.
You will spend the whole of next day trekking amongst wilderness at the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary and in the evening drive back to Kewzing village for overnight stay.
After breakfast, wander around Kewzing village in the morning, interacting with the villagers and then set off on a soft trek to Mangbrue Monastery. We then drive to Yuksam, from whence, another soft trek takes us to Dubdi monastery, one of the oldest in Sikkim. Visit the coronation stone and Kathok lake, and interact with the members of the KCC (Khangendzonga Conservation Committee).
The Khangchendzonga National Park is a UNESCO recognised biodiversity hotspot. The vegetation of the park includes temperate broadleaf and mixed forests consisting of oaks, fir, birch, maple, willow etc. The vegetation of the park also includes alpine grasses and shrubs at higher altitudes along with many medicinal plants and herbs. The animals you can spot includes the Himalayan thar, the red panda and the elusive snow leopard. We spend 2-3 days trekking and camping within the the National Park.
On the penultimate day, drive to Kalimpong (6 hours). Visit the Tashiding Monastery on the way, before checking into a hotel for the night’s stay. In the morning, depart for Bagdogra (4.5 hours) for onward journey.
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DAYSThe Sikkim Trekking Trail is a 12-14 day outdoor adventure that introduces travellers to the delicate ecosystem & reveals the natural secrets of Sikkim. Also become acquainted with some of many monasteries in Sikkim & understand some community based projects as you visit their villages.
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DAYSIn the north-east corner of India, far removed from the rest of the country, persevering against all odds, lies an ancient civlization in the form of Sikkim.
North East India
Transfer from International airport to Peerless Inn Sarovar Park Plaza. Check in. Half day city tour if time permits. Overnight at Calcutta. In the morning you will be picked up from your hotel in Calcutta and transferred to Gadkhali jetty through beautiful countryside and rural bazaars with stopovers at a local tea shop and fishermen’s villages. You will arrive at Gadkhali mid morning and will be greeted with morning tea and a briefing by a local guide. You will then board your motorized boat for a two hour cruise through rivers Bidya, Durgaduani and Gumdi. An optional stopover at Gosaba is possible to visit the house of Sir Danniel Hamilton - a Scottish banker who initiated the first co-operative movement of India here. After arriving at Bali Island and checking-in to Sunderbans Jungle Camp a hot lunch will follow. Your afternoon will be filled with a three hour Birding and Game cruise to Sudhanyakhali watch tower through creeks and canals, searching for the elusive tiger, as well as estuarine crocodiles, rhesus monkeys, irrawaddy dolphins, water monitors, several species of crabs and birds, otters and various other species of flora and fauna. You will return to camp by evening greeted with tea and snacks and ‘infotainment’ by one of the camps poacher-turned-guide. A hearty meal of local cooking from the village’s organic farm will end your day at Sunderbans Jungle Camp. Begin the next day with a filling breakfast, following which, you will set off on a day long Game Cruising and Birding Tour to Netidhopani watchtower (Subject to weather permitting) including crab catching and fishing expeditions from the fragile country boats. Lunch will be served on board your boat. Back to camp in the evening where you are invited for an evening experience at the local rural theatre (Bonobibi Yatra) performed by the villagers. The theatre tells the interesting story of the Tiger Lord, Forest God and Goddesses, fishermen and honey collectors with lots of local songs and dances. Dinner and overnight at Sunderbans Jungle Camp.
Early morning you will depart for Calcutta airport to take a flight to Dibrugarh in upper Bramaputra valley in Assam. Transfer to hotel and overnight.
From Dibrugarh Town you will drive two hours to the Soikhowaghat from where you will take a fascinating ferry cruise across the headwaters of Brahmaputra. The whole journey is an experience as it reveals the life on the ghats that have been operational since the British period and connect all the important river roots of Northeast India. You will arrive at Sadiya ghat and take a picturesque drive of 2 hours though the beautiful rural Assam and Arunachal to reach Dibang Valley Jungle Camp – located at the 12th mile marker, inside a lush farm house that commands a breathtaking view of the Dibang river basin, contiguous forests and the enigmatic Mishmi hills. Overnight at Dibang Valley Jungle Camp. The next morning, you will visit the Mishmi villages and soak in their traditional life, farming, textile weaving, house building. You can even try Trout fishing and rafting in the nearby river, or opt for a day-hike in the mountain. In the evening, participate in a Mishmi cooking session to understand, learn, appreciate and savour authentic Mishmi cuisine. Stay at Dibang Valley Jungle Camp.
You will spend few hours birding in the park and proceed to Miao. After lunch at Miao you will depart for your onward destination Dihing River Camp – situated on the bank of Buri Dihing River that originates from Eastern Arunachal and finally meets Brahmaputra. The Camp has two Chang(traditional Bamboo huts on stilts) cottages with attached western bath. After breakfast the next day, you will proceed to Dimapur where you'll spend the rest of the day, followed by overnight stay at Dimapur hotel
Today you will travel about 3 hours to Kisama village – the festival ground. You will be introduced to this unique cultural extravaganza and festival activities – Cultural Dances (All 17 major tribes), War Dances (All 17 major tribes), Folk Songs, Indigenous Games, Music (Rock Beat contest in the evening), Fashion Show (Cultural & Modern), Handloom & Handicrafts, Local Cuisine (All 17 major tribes), Local drinks (Zutho, Thutshe). Return to hotel. Overnight at a Naga Home stay in Kisama village.
After breakfast on the second day, visit Khonoma Village. The picturesque village of Khonoma, which lies 20 km west of Kohima offers delightful views of Nagaland's natural beauty and ecological diversity. This village was known for its fighting prowess in the past. It is also known for the fallow management of its alder trees which balances nature in the surrounding areas. The beautiful terraces which are carved out of the hill slopes surrounding the village are a sight to behold. The unique variety of soil condition and elevation of its fields have resulted in about 20 types of rice being grown here. To conserve the Blyth's Tragopan, an endangered pheasant of the State and other wildlife in its natural habitat, Khonoma Nature Conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary (KNCTS) was set up in 1998 by the ecologically conscious people of Khonoma village. This sanctuary which covers an area of over 70 sq. kms. is privately owned and managed by the Village Community of Khonoma. This sanctuary is also the habitat of many other endangered and rare species of plants and animals. The sanctuary is also an ideal place for adventure and nature study. You will have ample opportunities to visit the Morungs(dormitory for the youths) and Western Angami textile weaving. Overnight in Home stay On the last day, transfer to Dimapur Airport for onward journey.
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DAYSThis trip introduces you to the tribes and festivities of North East India. Indulge in their hospitality and discover their protected culture by living amongst them.
Apatanis are, perhaps the most well settled of the indigenous tribal people of Arunachal Pradesh who have stayed behind and chosen to practice old tradition and custom as way of life even after the British left their land. Moving from a hunter-gatherer lifestyle to a more settled agricultural economy, harnessing the murmuring river Subansiri .Apatanis, living in perfect harmony with nature-for every tree they fell, five fresh saplings are planted, are appreciated for their long conservation tradition and their legendary skill and knowledge of weaving. The Jouney: you will drive from Lilabari airport to Ziro- the largest Apatani Hong village. You will be hosted by a Apatani family in their Bamboo hut. You will explore the Apatani social customs, culture, food, unique agricultural tradition, weaving tradition and their craft. You will trek into the Bamboo forest and understand their traditionally sustainable method of pine and bamboo forest conservation. You will participate in a Apatani cultural programme in the village.
From Ziro valley you will be transferred to the historic city of Tezpur- the city of blood where you will explore the archaeological, heritage and pilgrimage sites on the bank of mighty Brahmaputra river.You will stay overnight in a old Assamese style tourist lodge
Tawang the headquarters of the Tawang district, located on the Western tip of the state on a mountain ridge at 12000 ft above sea level, is the land of the Monpa tribes- originally from Tibet, and a major centre of the Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism. On the way to Tawang lies the World's second highest motorable pass, the Sela Pass. Tawang Monastery or Gompa also known as the 'Galden Namgyal Lhatse', a 400 year old Buddhist monastery of the Mahayana sect, built in the 17th century is the jewel in the crown of this historic Himalayan town. It is situated on a cliff at a height of 3500 meters or 10,000 feet overlooking the great mountains of two bordering countries – China and Bhutan. The monastery which is considered as second largest outside Lhasa, was founded by a legendary monk, Mera Lama, a contemporary of the fifth Dalai Lama. It is a vast complex of 65 buildings - a treasure house of old scriptures, priceless images, painted tapestries, books and collection of gold lettered Buddhist scriptures. The reading hall and the library of the monastery house the rare hand written and block-printed Thangkas or manuscripts of revered books. The collection includes 108 gold-embossed manuscripts of the 'Teaching of Lord Buddha'. The Journey: From Tezpur you will take a 6 hours drive to Bomdila following the ancient trade route connecting Tibet to the Brahmaputra plains.The road enters the elephant country along the Nameri Tiger Reserve where a dusk-driving enhances the prospect of having elephant herds blocking your passage! You will stop on the way to visit the largest Orchidarium at Tipi which houses 500 species of rare Orchids. From Bomdila you will hit the serpentine mountain road, you will stop at Sella for acclimatization and also to visit the War memorial. In Tawang you will visit the Main monastery, craft centre and emporium, local market, war memorial, 6th Dalai Lama's birth place and a traditional Monpa tribal stone village. You will explore Monpa farming, brewing of local beer and their strong social custom and cultural tradition. You will trek to the monastery of the nuns. From Tawang you will come to a beautiful and small village named Thembang where you will be hosted by Monpa villagers in their Home stays. In Thembang you will visit the fortified village, monastery, stone village, sheep-breeding farm and you will take a birding tour to Sangti Valley - a sanctuary of the Tibetan Black-necked cranes.
From Dirang your next destination is Nameri, a National Park and Tiger Reserve on the banks of Jia Bhoroli river which is a hot spot for Mahasheer fishing.You will stay here for a night in transit. On the last day, transfer to Guwahati airport and depart for Delhi or proceed for Kaziranga National Park extension tour.
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DAYSDiscover the mysteries of tribal Assam & remote Arunachal Pradesh through this customised itinerary to the north-east frontier of India. The trip crafts a trail across remote villages in the hills & mountains. Most of these are inhabited by indigenous tribes of a wide variety.
On arrival, set off on another flight to Guwahati, from whence you will drive for 4 hours to reach Nameri National Park. The Nameri National Park consists of semi-evergreen, moist deciduous forests with cane and bamboo brakes and narrow strips of open grassland along rivers. It is rich elephant country and was once considered an elephant reserve. Its biggest treasure however is its vast populace of bird species. Experience Birding Trips and river rafting during your stay in the National Park at the jungle's Eco Camp.
The next morning, make the 7 hour drive to the second of three national parks we will visit during this trip - The Manas Tiger Reserve. On arrival you will check in at your cottage accommodation and rest for the rest of the day. The next day will include birding trips and elephant safaris through the reserve. The monsoon forests of Manas lie in the Brahmaputra Valley semi-evergreen forests ecoregion. The combination of Sub-Himalayan Bhabar Terai formation with riverine succession leading up to the Himalayan subtropical broadleaf forests makes it one of the richest biodiversity areas in the world. The sanctuary is home to 55 species of mammals, 380 species of birds, 50 of reptiles, and 3 species of amphibians. It is renowned for its population of water buffalos and elephants and is also the natural habitat of a few rare, endangered species such as the Assam roofed turtle, the Hispid hare, Golden Langurs and the pygmy hog.
On the next morning, set off for Kaziranga - a 7 hour drive away. Check into your resort and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Your visit to Kaziranga is highlighted by several Elephant safaris, birding trails & game drives through the national park. On your last day in the park, transfer to Gibbon WLS, for an encounter with primates and more bird-watching. Spend the night at a Heritage Tea Bungalow in Jorhat. On the last day, depart to nearest airport for onward journey.
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DAYSThis customised trip covers three of the most rewarding national parks of Assam - Nameri, Manas & Kaziranga. The trip is tailor-made for nature enthusiasts and provides plenty of opportunity for acclimatisation. It allows travellers the much-required time to settle in and bask in the natural bounties for one of India's north-easternmost & remotest states.
Your trip begins with a two day city tour exploring Calcutta, this culturally rich city of India. Discover this exciting city on a ‘Heritage Walk’ of the distinct architectural heritage of Calcutta. It highlights the evolution of this city from where it all began, Dalhousie Square. The first walk takes us on a two hour journey around some 15 buildings in the area, including the imposing Writers Building, the newly renovated Town Hall, the St John’s Churchyard and the historic Metcalfe Hall. We also visit the House of Rabindranath Tagore and the Marble Palace. The tour includes visits to a number of the city’s museums and monuments along with a taste of an era gone by with a city tram ride.
In the morning transfer to Sonakhali jetty through beautiful countryside and rural bazaar’s with stopovers at a local tea shop and fishermen’s villages. You will arrive at Gadkhali mid morning and will be greeted with morning tea and a briefing by a local guide. You will then board a motorised boat for a two hour cruise through rivers Bidya, Durgaduani and Gumdi. An optional stopover at Gosaba is possible to visit the house of Sir Danniel Hamilton - a Scottish banker who initiated the first co-operative movement of India here. Enjoy a hot lunch at the Sunderbans Jungle Camp after checking-in. Your afternoon will be occupied by a three hour Birding and Game cruise to Sudhanyakhali watch tower through creeks and canals, searching for the elusive tiger, as well as estuarine crocodiles, rhesus monkeys, Irrawaddy dolphins, water monitors, several species of crabs and birds, otters and various other species of flora and fauna. You will return to camp by evening greeted with tea and snacks and ‘infotainment’ by one of the camps poacher-turned-guide. A hearty meal of local cooking from the village’s organic farm will mark the end of an eventful day at Sunderbans Jungle Camp. After a filling breakfast, your next day will mostly consist of a full-day Game Cruising and Birding trip to the National Park. Lunch will be served on board. Back to camp in the evening where you are invited for an evening experience at the local rural theatre (Bonobibi Yatra) performed by the villagers. The theatre tells the interesting story of the Tiger Lord, Forest God and Goddesses, fishermen and honey collectors with lots of local songs and dances. Dinner and overnight at Sunderbans Jungle Camp. After breakfast you will enjoy a guided Village Walk with further opportunities to interact with local villagers. You will experience wonderful encounters helping you understand more about their lifestyle, local crafts, cuisines and even the indigenous farming and household equipment used by the villagers. You will finish your tour with a guided adventure cruise in a manually-oared country boat. Dinner and overnight at Sunderbans Jungle Camp.
After an early breakfast the next day, transfer back to the airport and board a flight to Guwahati or Jorhat and proceed to Kaziranga Tiger Reserve. Kaziranga National Park in Assam has to be the most beautiful and attractive place you can choose to visit in Northeastern India. An UNESCO World Heritage Site Kaziranga’s 900 sq.kms of lush green flood plains is home to some of most fascinating wildlife of Asia. The next day, embark upon Elephant back safaris and game drives in the Eastern and Central range of the park. Overnight at the Jungle Lodge.
After breakfast you will drive to Guwahati. After a brief rest your pre-booked hotel, you will set out for a cultural visit to the Kamakshya Shakti temple, Assam Craft Emporium and Umananda temple which is located on the smallest Island named Peacock Island on Brahmaputra river. Overnight you will stay with an Assamese family in their beautiful homestay.
Moving on from Guwahati, your day begins with a brief introduction to Brahmaputra – one of the greatest river systems in the world that flows through three countries – China, India and Bangladesh! And finally you reach Manas. Lying on the foothills of the Himalaya, Manas is the most stunning pristine wildlife habitat in India, comparable to the best in the world in the beauty of its spectacular landscape. It is also a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site, a Project Tiger Reserve, an Elephant Reserve and a Biosphere Reserve - a unique distinction. Manas is the melting point of the west and the east, with many species at the westernmost and easternmost point of their range representing a gateway for species exchanges between the typically Indian and Malayan' faunas. A total of 55 mammals, 50 reptiles and three amphibians have been recorded, several species being endemic. Manas contains 21 of India's Schedule I mammals and at least 33 of its animals listed as threatened, by far the greatest number of any protected area in the country. After checking in at Florican Jungle Cottage - a community based lodge run by a local conservation NGO, you will be greeted by your hosts with a small traditional reception ceremony. Your local trip guide will de-brief you about the project and the tour. Overnight at Florican Jungle Cottage. In the morning you will set out for a day-long wildlife and patrolling expedition with our conservation team in the park. You will explore the Central core of the National Park and visit patrolling camps, species conservation and monitoring centres. You will return to camp by evening greeted with tea and snacks and ‘infotainment’ by one of the coordinators of the project. A hearty meal of local cooking from the village’s organic farm will end your day at Florican Jungle Cottage. On the last day, transfer to Guwahati airport and depart for Delhi/Calcutta for onward journey.
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DAYSThe East Himalaya World Heritage Tour is a journey through the hidden treasures of East & North-East India. This trip will take you through several natural reserves including the world-renowned Sundarbans & Manas Tiger Reserves, while simultaneously introducing you to the fiercely protected cultural heritage of the indigenous tribes that inhabit these lands.
From Delhi, embark upon a flight to the tea capital of Assam - Jorhat, and transfer immediately to Nemaitighat from whence, you will take a ferry to Majuli Island. Majuli is cultural hot spot where Guru Shankar Deva had first introduced the monastic order in Vaishnovism. Majuli – considered to be the largest river island in the world has several ancient monasteries that still practice the monastic school of Satriya dance form and religious activities. The island is already threatened due to constant erosion caused by the changing course of Brahmaputra and is short-listed by UNESCO as a future World Heritage Site. Overnight at Guest House. After a good night's rest, your next day will be filled with cultural and village experiences in Majuli (on foot and bicycle) including a local lunch in a Mishing tribal village. Overnight at Guest House.
Early next morning, travel to Pakke Tiger Reserve in East Kameng District of Arunachal Pradesh. Inhabited by the colorful Nyishi tribe, Pakke is a pristine habitat and a host to rare fauna and four species of Hornbill. Here the Nyishi community has shown an outstanding example of community participation in conservation to safeguard their natural heritage. Overnight at Pakke Junge Camp. Rise early next morning for a jungle tour and a village experience in Pakke. Overnight at Pakke Jungle Camp.
The next day, embark upon a 7 hour drive to Ziro in the great Apatani plateau. Apatanis are perhaps the most well settled of the indigenous tribal people of Arunachal Pradesh who have stayed behind and chosen to practice old tradition and customs as way of life even after the British left their land. Moving from a hunter-gatherer lifestyle to a more settled agricultural economy, harnessing the murmuring river Subansiri, the Apatanis live in perfect harmony with nature - for every tree they fell, five fresh saplings are planted. The Apatanis are appreciated for their long conservation tradition and their legendary skill and knowledge of weaving. The Apatani valley has been short-listed as one of the most prominent sites to be included in the future UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Overnight at village Home stay or at a small Hotel. Your next day will revolve around village and cultural experiences. Overnight at village Home stay in Ziro.
We drive for 6 hours on the next day for a transit halt at Daporijo en route Basar Valley. Overnight at Hotel. On the next morning, we continue our journey to Basar valley where we will stay for 02 nights to mingle with the Adi Gallong tribal community and enjoy their hospitality, local food and culture. Overnight at village Home stay or camping in the village.
Begin the 10th day of your journey with a drive to Passighat where you have the rest of the day at your disposal to explore at leisure. Overnight at hotel or Home stay. The next morning, we make the short ferry ride across the notorious Brahmaputra river to Dibrugarh. Overnight at Heritage Tea Bungalow in the middle of a tea plantation. Enjoy an excellent Bihu cultural celebration in the evening followed by a traditional Assamese fish dinner with local recipes. On the last day, transfer to Dibrugarh airport for onward journey.
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DAYSExplore the distant settlements of the Assam valley & Arunachal Pradesh that are home to many indigenous communities of the mountain tribes. Discover their simplistic, conscious lifestyle and participate in the exemplary bond they share with the land.
Arrive at Bagdogra airport and set off immediately for Darjeeling. Your trip begins with an experience in a Darjeeling tea plantation - near the small mountain town of Kurseong 'A Place of White Flowers'. Selimhill is considered to be one the best organic tea gardens of the Darjeeling hills. During the stay at Tea Estate you will visit the plantations and the factory to gain some understanding about the cultivation and processing of organic tea. You will visit local communities and garden villages where you will participate in a traditional cultural performance by the villagers; you will enjoy a birding trek & a cooking class in the evening.
From Selim Hill you will take a short drive to Tinchulay. Tinchulay which literally means three Chulas or ovens, is a Model Village and a Community Tourism initiative of Help Tourism, local villagers and WWF-India (West Bengal State Office) in the Darjeeling Hills. You will be hosted by one of the oldest and largest joint families of Darjeeling hills (about 22 family members) here who has put together a guest house with 04 double bedded and 04 four-bedded rooms with private toilet cum bath in one building. The Honeymoon cottage is a new addition. Dining hall with local fresh food of traditional dishes and common regular items are provided from house kitchen. Tinchulay is a unique experience of typical Himalayan village hospitality at its best. Close-by is a good viewpoint for viewing the snow capped mountains. Interesting village and forest walks are part of your stay here. Experience the different processes of village livelihood.
From Tinchulay you will drive to Ghoom, World's highest Railway Station to take a ride in the heritage toy train for Darjeeling. DHR is a living example of one of the outstanding ingenious transportations and engineering feats, and it is still functional and has retained most of its original features. DHR is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Ghoom you will take a short drive to Darjeeling - the most renowned British summer retreat of India in the Himalayas. Home of the late Tenzing Norgay, co-mountaineer of Sir Edmund Hillary, Darjeeling has since 1954 housed the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute where he trained a generation of mountaineers. The earliest Everest expeditions started their journey from here. Highlights of your Darjeeling Experience will be Heritage walks, Buddhist Cultural experience in Manjushree Centre of Tibetan Culture and History, visit to the Tiger Hill Ridge, visit to Darjeeling Himalayan Zoo - one of the finest centres for conservation of endangered Himalayan wildlife, and your stay at The Swiss Hotel - a quaint and charming small colonial style hotel with lot of characters, wonderful location and spectacular view of Mount Kanchenjunga.
From Darjeeling you will enter Sikkim, and your Sikkim Experience starts with Hee Bermiok, a traditional Limboo village in West Sikkim: The village - set out at the most scenic locations of the Himalayas is an ideal base for your vacations in West Sikkim. In a rural setting far from the hustle and bustle of city life, the resort is a perfect hideaway or refuge from the humdrum of daily life; above all a great Sikkimese hospitality will always be in sight. Highlights of your Sikkim Experience will be the Sikkimese and Tibetan Tantric Buddhist Culture, Hikes, Birding, Village experience, Cooking lessons, Visit to Oldest Royal Monastery of Sikkim, Visit to Local School and Craft Centre, Freshly-cooked Organic Local Food.
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DAYSThe Himalayan Hospitality is a customised cultural odyssey that covers the mountains of Selim, Tinchulay, Darjeeling & West Sikkim. Immerse yourself within the picturesque settlements of the far mountains. Adapt to the unique pace of life in these remote villages and experience the simplistic lifestyles of the mountain people.
The Zurrantee Experience is a great opportunity for a unique insight into the lives of tea planters, and a chance to unwind in the homely yet extravagant environs of the estate's Bungalow. Food is served in colonial planter's style and prepared from vegetables, fruits, herbs and spices picked fresh from the mali bari (vegetable garden). During the stay at Zurrantee you will explore the Dooars Valley, trek through the tea garden or photograph wild elephants while perched on a tree top machaan (platform built on a tree), take safaris in Garumara National Park, have picnic on the banks of the Chel river, visit a haat or colourful local market, enjoy a tribal cultural experience, and understand the fascinating process of tea making. From the bushes to the factory and into the teacup, you will find out what goes into making the perfect blend for the perfect cuppa.
Situated in the Kalimpong sub-division under Darjeeling district, Neora Valley National Park is one of the richest biological zones in the entire Northeast. The land of elegant Red Panda in the pristine undisturbed natural habitat with rugged inaccessible hilly terrain and rich diverse flora and fauna together make the park an important wilderness zone. The forest in Neora Valley has such a luxurious growth that even sunlight finds it difficult to touch the ground. Much of the park is still inaccessible making it an adventurous place for the nature lovers / trekkers who can take the challenge to explore the still-unknown terrain in the Kalimpong hills. You will be hosted at Neora Valley Jungle Camp - a small community-based conservation tourism project run by Help Tourism. This is more of a nature lover's/birder's camp, to support the nearest village community from Kolakham village, which is adjoining to the National Park and witnesses a fast degradation of the buffer area of the park. All activities in the camp are supported by well-trained local people. The highlights of your Neora Valley Experience will be Birding Treks in National Park adjoining areas, Kirat Culture, Local Traditional Food, Village experience, Visit to Buddhist Monastery.
From Neora Valley Jungle Camp you will drive to Ghoom, World's highest Railway Station to take a ride in the heritage toy train for Darjeeling. DHR is a living example of one of the outstanding ingenious transportations and engineering fiats, and it is still functional and has retained most of its original features. DHR is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Ghoom you will take a short drive to Darjeeling - the most renowned British summer retreat of India in the Himalayas. Home of the late Tenzing Norgay, co-mountaineer of Sir Edmund Hillary, Darjeeling has since 1954 housed the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute where he trained a generation of mountaineers. The earliest Everest expeditions started their journey from here. Highlights of your Darjeeling Experience will be Heritage walks, Buddhist Cultural experience in Manjushree Centre of Tibetan Culture and History, visit to the Tiger Hill Ridge, visit to Darjeeling Himalayan Zoo- one of the finest centres for conservation of endangered Himalayan wildlife, and your stay at The Swiss Hotel- a quaint and charming small colonial style hotel with lot of characters, wonderful location and spectacular view of Mount Kanchenjunga.
Early morning from Darjeeling, drive through the Salamander highway, exploring the Himalayan Salamander habitat, tea gardens and pine forests, you arrive the Lake retreat of Darjeeling Hills, Mirik. The lake offers boating and an interesting visit to the Mirik Monastery. On the last day, depart for the closest airport for onward journey.
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DAYSThe North East of India is renowned for its hills, its dense forests and the resulting richness of its wildlife. This customised tour will take you to tea-plantations in the floodplains & foothills of the Himalayas and the charming town of Darjeeling. You will also experience the serene wilderness of Neora Valley National Park - the natural habitat of the elusive Red Panda.
From Delhi you will arrive by flight at Bagdogra, and embark upon a spectacular 3 hour long journey to Darjeeling - the most renowned British summer retreat of India in the Himalayas. Home of the late Tenzing Norgay, co-mountaineer of Sir Edmund Hillary, Darjeeling has since 1954 housed the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute where he trained a generation of mountaineers. The earliest Everest expeditions started their journey from here. In the afternoon you will take a gentle walk to the Japanese Peace Pagoda followed by a visit to the Manjushri Centre of Tibetan Culture and History. You will stay at The Swiss Hotel- a quaint and charming small colonial style hotel with lot of characters, wonderful location and spectacular view of Mount Kanchenjunga. The highlights of your next day will be an early morning sunrise tour to the Tiger Hill ridge; visit to the Darjeeling Himalayan Zoo - one of the finest centres for conservation of endangered Himalayan wildlife, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute & Everest Museum; a heritage steam-tour by DHR (Darjeeling Himalayan Railway - An UNESCO World Heritage Site) and a Buddhist experience in the famous Ghoom monastery. your stay at The Swiss Hotel- a quaint and charming small colonial style hotel with lot of characters, wonderful location and spectacular view of Mount Kanchenjunnga.
After breafast the next day, depart from Darjeeling. The road meanders down the Rangeet valley and again climbs up gradually from the north bank of the river. The total time to reach Hee is between three to four hours. Welcome with traditional lunch and local dance. Overnight at Barsey Jungle Camp, an authentic Limboo Home stay. Spend all of next day in a village visiting Srijanga temple and Shiva temple offering Puja (worship) in the traditional Limbo way. Also visit the sacred Phengdorjee water falls. Spend time in the Heritage village exploring the rich traditions. Overnight at Barsey Jungle Camp. Next morning begins with an early breakfast and transfer to Hilley – the gateway to Barse Rhododendron sanctuary. Trek about 6 km to reach Brse summit from where one can enjoy a jaw-dropping view of Mt.Kanchenjunga and its associate peaks. Overnight at Trekkers’ Hut or camping.
The next day is to continue in Barshey and trekking to the Taal, the area where the Rhododendrons bloom in abundance. Return for late lunch and rest. On the following morning, trek down to Hilley, where a car awaits to take you to your next destination Pemayangtse - the nearest motorable view point of Mount Kanchenjunga and the most important centre of Tibetan Tantrik Buddhist culture. Overnight at Hotel Elgin Mount Pandim.
The next day you will visit some of the oldest Royal monasteries of Sikkim, a sacred lake whose water is believed to have the magical power to keep the flying dry leaves of the surrounding trees away, cascading water falls, one of the highest gorge bridges of Asia, a local craft centre and an orphanage. You may wish to attend a Buddhist meditation session and meet the wonderful, ever-smiling mountain communities of the village.
Begin the next day with a 4 hour drive to Kalimpong heritage town, famous for its Orchids and Himalayan plants, Tibetan art and craft, Missionary Institutions and boarding schools. Due its mid-altitude and perfect weather year round, Kalimpong is a well known retreat in the Himalayas which used to be a major trading centre along the ancient Silk Route connecting Lhasa in Tibet via Jelepla and Nathula passes and finally crossing over the mystical Chumbi valley. After lunch visit the private Orchid Sanctuary owned by the family-run lodge named The Orchid Retreat where you will rest for the night.
Early next morning, drive 3 hours via Kalimpong to Neora Valley, a pristine habitat at the tri-junction of Sikkim, West Bengal and Bhutan, and is one of the best birding sites in Eastern Himalaya. Check in at Neora Valley Jungle Camp, an excellent Eco resort which has stunning location that confirms a jaw-dropping view of the lush valleys and most expansive view of Mount Kanchenjunga on a clear day. You have the rest of the day at your leisure. Neora Valley is one of the last remaining pristine ecosystems of the Eastern Himalayas with its amazing Bio-diversity, and is home to many rare and endangered plants, animals and birds. It exhibits a rich variety of habitat as the area comprises the catchments and watershed of the Neora River with its tributaries. The Park with its dense forests is located on the tri-junction of Bhutan, Sikkim and West-Bengal, and its boundary extends from 30 m of altitude up to 3200 m on an area of only 88 square km. Though this sounds rather small, it has to be considered that due to the topographical features the surface of the Park is much larger. The whole of next day will be spent in exploring the Neora Valley, enjoying the nippy mountain air. A visit to the beautiful Kolakham village provides excellent opportunity to experience the local life and culture of the indigenous Rai community. Overnight at Neora Valley Jungle Camp. On the last day, make the 4 hour drive to Bagdogra airport for onward journey.
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DAYSThis is a journey through the wild sanctuaries of the north-east. Visit the rhododendron sanctuaries and royal monasteries of Sikkim, the tea-plantations of Darjeeling, trek through the hills of Hee-Barshey and Taal. Marvel at the heritage village of Kalimpong & its orchid sanctuaries.
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DAYSNorth East India is largely unexplored and remote, away from traditional tourist circuits of India. It has a large number of indigenous tribes that still believe in a simplistic traditional lifestyle. Discover their unique livelihood and the abundant wildlife of these lands through our customised experiential adventures.
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