Off Beat Trips Archives - Odin Tours

Mesmerizing Meghalaya Tour

Tour Plan: Guwahati – Shillong – Cherrapunjee – Mawllynnong – Shillong – Guwahati .

6N/7D Mesmerizing Meghalaya Tour – Itinerary Details

Day 1: GUWAHATI

Arrive Guwahati and transfer to your hotel for check-in. Later visit Women Weaver’s Society & Kamakhya Devi Temple.

Overnight in Hotel.

Day 2: GUWAHATI – SHILLONG via Umden village (approx. 160 kms/4-5 hrs.)

After breakfast drive to Shillong via Umden village also called Silk village of Meghalaya, where you can see and experience the farming of Silk worm and weaving the silk, see the traditional weaving and dying of colors not with chemicals but with bio and natural way of dying with tree leaves, turmeric, fruits etc.

After visiting Umden village continue your drive to Shillong & enroute stopover at Umiam lake to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area and later transfer to your hotel for overnight stay. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 3: SHILLONG – David Scott’s Trail – Hike from Mawphlang to Ladmawphlang (16 km, 5 – 6 hrs) – CHERRAPUNJI (about 60 kms/1-2 hrs.)

After breakfast drive to Mawphlang village (approx. 25 kms/45 mins) and continue to your trail till Ladmawphlang village and continue your drive to Cherrapunji. O/n Hotel/resort.

David Scott, British Administrator, political agent to the British Raj. His operations and reach stretched about 29 years (1802-1832) in the Khasi Hills and the surrounding low-lying areas. These areas are now in Bangladesh and the Indian states of Meghalaya and Assam. This was originally the horse-cart road that connected the plains of Slyhet (now in Bangladesh) to Assam.

Day 4: CHERRAPUNJEE

Full day visit Arwah Caves, Nohkalikai Water Falls, Mawsmai Cave & Seven Sisters water fall (one of the longest in India).

After lunch in a resort in Cherrapunji, evening relax OR free on your own.

Day 5: CHERRAPUNJI – MAWLLYNNONG – SHILLONG (about 190 kms/5-6 hrs.)

Morning after breakfast drive to Mawllynnong-cleanest village in Asia. Enroute stopover at view point to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.

On arrival at Reyik village (approx. 02 kms behind Mawllynnong) visit Single decker living root bridge inside the jungle, later visit and enjoy the locally made watch tower, made up of bamboos. This watch tower gives you 360 degree view of the surrounding area.

After lunch in a Home Stay we drive back to Shillong for overnight stay.

Day 6: SHILLONG

A day at leisure OR visit Don Bosco Cultural Museum & walk around Police Bazaar (The Mall Road) of Shillong town, famous for roadside shops and souvenir shops.

Overnight in Hotel/Resort.

Day 7: SHILLONG-GUWAHATI (about 110 kms/02-03 hrs.) – Depart for homeward destination.

Morning after breakfast drive back to Guwahati and straight transfer to airport for your onward flight to onward destination.

— End of Tour —

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Hidden Gems of Rajasthan

A startled black-buck, the bewitching smile a village belle, the lined face of a tribal chief, the ruggedness of Thar, miles of golden sands, loping on a camel back romance rides with you This tour invites both the first time visitors and those wanting to explore this beautiful state more. Covering almost all the important sites of Rajasthan the tour is rich in cultural and historical experiences. The accommodation is carefully chosen boutique hotels, heritage palaces, fort hotels at amazing locations.

Offbeat Rajasthan Tour – This 13N/14D tour combines the rural hamlets in Eastern Rajasthan with the more popular cities of Jaipur and Udaipur and villages of Rohet and Khimsar. Over two weeks, see the impressive Chitra Sala or Picture Gallery atop Bundi’s Taragarh fort, take a Bishnoi village safari outside Jodhpur, go bird watching and experience village life around Karauli. Also visit romantic Udaipur – the City of Lakes and Jaipur as well as the iconic Taj Mahal and the monuments of Delhi.

Places: Delhi – Agra – Fatehpur Sikri – Ramathra – Bundi – Udauipur – Ranakpur Rohet Garh – Bishnoi – Jodhpur Khimsar – Jaipur – Delhi

Detailed Travel Plan

Day 1: Welcome to Delhi

Welcome to the political and Cultural Capital of India … Delhi. Traditional welcome at the airport by our representative and transfer to hotel.

Day 2: Delhi

Explore Delhi on a full day sightseeing tour. Start with a tour of Old Delhi in the morning; enjoying a cycle rickshaw ride in the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk followed by a visit to the Jama Masjid and the Raj Ghat. In the afternoon, drive past the impressive buildings of Lutyen’s New Delhi and visit the Humayun’s tomb and the lofty Qutb Minar.

Day 3: Agra

Rise early morning to take the express train to Agra ; stay one night. Visit the impressive Agra Fort, followed by a visit to the ornate tomb of Itamud-ud-Daula. Enjoy a visit to the Taj Mahal at sunset to marvel at one of the world’s great monuments in a glow of pink and yellow hues.

Day 4: Fateh Pur Sikri

An hour’s drive from Agra, visit Akbar’s deserted Mughal capital city at Fatehpur Sikri laden with beautiful buildings. In the afternoon, drive through marble and stone quarries of the Daang Plateau to Ramathra, stay two nights

Day 5: Ramathra

Relax in the midst of the wonderfully rustic surroundings, take a village walk, explore the expansive ruins of the fort or take a boat ride in the lake to see a wide variety of migratory and local birds.

Day 6: Bundi

Take a short drive southwards to Bundi one of Rajasthan’s hidden gems, for an overnight stay. Visit the sprawling Taragarh Fort which houses a spectacular multi-storeyed palace. Inside, the former royal apartments hold a collection of vibrant early-17th-century murals.

Day 7: Udaipur

Drive to Udaipur visiting the Chittaurgarh Fort – the largest in India and a UNESCO World Heritage site en route; stay two nights.

Day 8: Udaipur

The sightseeing in Udaipur is set around the City Palace – a complex of 11 palaces, all with intricate stone work and interiors featuring glass mirror and ornamental tiles. Visit the gardens of Sahelion Ki Bari, the old city and the Jagdish Temple.

Day 9: Ranakpur Rohet garh

Heading westward today, traverse the Aravalli Hills to Ranakpur, the home of an intricately and painstakingly carved Jain Temple complex. Drive to the outskirts of Jodhpur; stay two nights.

Day 10 : Bishnoi

Experience a village safari this morning by jeep driving into the surrounding desert, where Bishnoi, Bhil, potters’ and weavers’ villages nestle amid the khejri trees and acacia scrub. The afternoon is at leisure.

Day 11 : Jodhpur Khimsar

Drive to Jodhpur for a half day sightseeing tour focussed on the majestic Mehrangarh, one of India’s most fabulous forts. Also visit the Jaswant Thada, a marble cenotaph and take a walk through the Sardar Bazar to see its Clock Tower that dates back to 1912. Drive on to rural Khimsar for an overnight stay. In the late afternoon, wander into the village to witness the rural way of life, rent a bike, or ride on a camel cart.

Overnight at the camp in Sam.

Day 12 : Jaipur

Drive to Jaipur ; stay two nights.

Day 13 : Jaipur

Start your morning sightseeing with the 17th century hilltop Amber Fort and the sparkling Mirror Palace. In the afternoon visit the City Palace & Museum and the 18th century Jantar Mantar astronomical observatory. Drive through the busy bazaars for a photo stop at the recently restored Hawa Mahal, one of the most famous buildings in Jaipur.

Day 14: Jaipur – Delhi

Early morning flight to Delhi for your onward journey.

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Tea Trail and Wildlife of Assam

Tour Plan: Arrival – Nameri – Kaziranga National Park – Majuli Island – Jorhat – Gibbon Sanctuary – Sivsagar – Dibrugarh – Fly Out.

6N/7D Tea Trail & Wildlife of Assam Tour – Itinerary Details

Day 01: Guwahati – Nameri (approx. 200 kms/4-5 hrs.)

Arrive Guwahati by morning flight from your home destination and straight drive to Nameri (We can also visit Kamakhya Devi Temple before proceeding to Nameri, its optional). Enroute we visit Dolphin Sighting place at Tezpur by local boat.

Arrive Nameri and transfer to your camp stay at ABACA Eco Camp (run by local NGO with the help of villagers).

Evening if time permits, walk around your camp area and bank of river Jia Bhorali for birding.

Day 02: Nameri – Kaziranga National Park (approx. 100 kms/2-3 hrs.)

Early morning enjoy water rafting for birding OR Nameri Jungle Safari by walk with forest guard and guide after crossing Jia Bhorali river.

After leisurely breakfast drive to Kaziranga National Park and transfer to your hotel for lunch. After lunch go for your first Exclusive Safari with your in-house naturalist and visit Eastern Zone (Agoratoli) of the park.

Overnight Jungle resort.

IMP NOTE: Kaziranga National Park is closed from 01^st May TILL 31^st Oct every year.

Day 03: Kaziranga National Park

Early morning enjoy Elephant safari in the park. Return back to your hotel for breakfast. After breakfast safari into Western zone (Bagori) of the park. Afternoon after lunch enjoys your last Jeep safari into Central zone (Kohora) the park.

O/n Hotel.

Jeep Safari Timings:

Morning Safari starts from 07.00 am till 09.30 am for 02 hours.

Afternoon Safari starts from 01.30 pm till 03.30 pm for 02 hours.

Elephant Safari Timings: Approx. 45 mins duration – 05.30 am to 06.30 am & 06.30 am to 07.30 am.

Note: Allocation of elephant riding seats and timings are regulated by the forest department, Kaziranga National Park, Government of Assam. The tickets for the same are issued only on the previous evening of the ride after 7:30 PM. We will try our utmost to avail the seats but cannot guarantee the same

Day 04: Kaziranga National Park – Majuli Island – Jorhat (approx. 110 kms/2-3 hrs.)

After early breakfast you will drive to Nimatighat near Jorhat (2-3 hours) + 1 ½ hrs. cruise) to reach Kamalabari Ghat, Majuli Island, Majuli is the largest fresh Water mid-river deltoid island in the world.

It is situated in the upper reaches of the river Brahmaputra in Assam. This Island, with a population of 1.6 Lakhs, majority being tribal, is endowed with rich heritage and has been the abode of the neo-vaishnavite culture. On arrival visit Kamalabari Satra – Oldest satra in Majuli Island + Samuguri Satra – famous for Mask making + Mishing village walk.

After lunch reach back to Kamalabari ghat to cruise back to Nimatighat and drive to Jorhat.

Jorhat, the gateway to north-east Assam is the heartland of tea. Besides its many tea estates, it has the famous Tocklai Experimental Centre that conducts research on new varieties of tea and its therapeutic effects.

NOTE: Tea Gardens remain closed between mid-December – Mid January due to Winter.

Day 05: Jorhat – Gibbon Sanctuary – Jorhat

Very early morning visit Gibbon Sanctuary (approx. 30 kms/45 mins) to see Himalayan Ape.

Gibbon sanctuary surrounded by lush green Tea gardens, is dedicated to the conservation of the hoolock gibbon, the only ape found in India, after which the name of this small sanctuary has given. Originally known as the Hollongopahar forest, declared a reserved forest in 1881, the present area of the sanctuary is 21 sq. kms, was notified in 1997 as a premier habitat of the hoolock gibbon.

Apart from Gibbon one can also see Capped Langur, Bengal Slow Loris, Stump-tailed macaque, Northern pig-tailed macaque, Assamese macaque & Rhesus macaque.

Drive back to your hotel for breakfast and later we visit Tocklai Tea Research Centre & Jorhat Gymkhana Club. Evening free to relax or walk around the local market.

Day 06: Jorhat – Dibrugarh via Sibsagar (approx. 140 kms/4-5 hrs.)

After breakfast you will drive to Dibrugarh via Historical city of Sivsagar. Sivasagar was the capital of the Ahom rulers from 1228 to 1826 AD. Sivasagar got its present name from Sivasagar Tank, excavated by the Ahom queen Ambika.

Arrive Sivasagar and visit the Rang Ghar–the royal observatory. After lunch in a restaurant visit Shiva and Vishnu Temples & Sivasagar Water Tank etc.

Later continue your drive to Dibrugarh and your stay is arranged at City Centre Hotel Natraj.

Day 07: Depart Dibrugarh

After breakfast visit the tea garden with an expert tea taster who will later demonstrate how freshly made tea is carefully measured out and brewed in special cups made for sampling. Participate in the tea tasting session to judge the samples for appearance, aroma, taste and strength.

Afternoon you will be transferred to the airport to board your return flight to onward destination.

—End of Tour —

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Tribals of North Eastern India and Rhinos of Kaziranga

TRIBALS OF NORTH EASTERN INDIA AND RHINOS OF KAZIRANGA (16 days)

(Kolkata – Tezpur – Itanagar – Ziro – Majuli – Sibsagar – Mon – Jorhat – Kaziranga – Kolkata)

This exploratory ‘off the beaten track’ tour takes you into the Northeast of India – a relatively unexplored and unspoilt part of India. We witness a fascinating Myoko or Boori Boot festival of Apatani tribes in Arunachal Pradesh. Best known for its eponymous tea, we explore Assam and see the Ahom ruins at Sibsagar and take a boat ride on the mighty Brahmaputra River to visit the Vaishnavite monasteries at Majuli, one of the largest riverine Islands in the world. The neighbouring Nagaland is home to many tribes, each with its own traditions, language and attire. There is an added attraction of Kaziranga – one of the finest national parks in India, famous for the one horned rhino.

Day 1: ARRIVE KOLKATA

You will arrive Kolkata and stay for 2 nights. Just a short walk away is the new market which you can explore in your free time.

Day 2: KOLKATA

A full day is spent exploring this charming metropolis, starting off with an early morning visit to the colourful flower market followed by a boat ride on the Hooghli River. The afternoon’s sightseeing includes the Victoria Memorial, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Indian Museum – one the largest museums in India.

Day 3: KOLKATA – GUWAHATI – TEZPUR

A short flight will bring us to Guwahati – the capital of Assam. We will drive to Tezpur for an overnight stay. Tezpur, also known as Sonitpur or City of Blood, is associated with the legend of princess Usha, the daughter of King Bana and prince Anirudha, the grandson of Lord Krishna for their eternal love and romance. The great mythological war believed to have been fought between Hari (Lord Krishna) and Hara (Lord Shiva) and as a result the whole city was said to have been drenched in blood. We explore the city in the evening.

Day 4: TEZPUR – ITANAGAR

Today we drive to Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh – the land of rising sun. We stay here for the night. In the afternoon, we visit The Buddhist Gompa of Itanagar. This is a new but beautiful yellow – roofed shrine rising from well-maintained grounds behind which a Banyan tree planted by His Holiness The Dalai Lama. You get a beautiful view of the Itanagar city from the temple grounds.

Day 5: ITANAGAR – ZIRO

Today morning, we drive to Jiro (usually spelled and pronounced as Ziro by the tourists). On the way to Ziro, we visit Local market run by Nyishi tribal women selling local produce of fruits and vegetables, handicrafts, jewellery and textiles. We also see Naharlagun – the Satellite city of Itanagar.

We arrive Ziro in the evening and check-in at your hotel for an overnight stay. Situated in the Lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh, Jiro is the plateau of Apatani Tribe. There are currently no known written records of the history of the Apatani tribe, although it is speculated that, throughout their history, the Apatani had a democratic system of running the society. The village council was known as the Bulyang. They are of Tibetan origin; their language belongs to the Tibeto-Burman family. Most Apatanis are loyal followers of the Donyi-Polo faith, who pray to an array of spirits and souls for blessing. When a misfortune occurs, they believe that it is caused by certain spirits, and thus they make appeasement sacrifices of chickens and mithuns. The dress of the Apatanis is elaborate and colourful, yet simple in style.

Tattooing and the stuffing of large nose plugs were once popular among the women. Originally, this practice started because the women wanted to look unattractive to males from neighbouring tribes!

Day 6: ZIRO

Today we have a full day to explore the tribes. We can also plan the dates to coincide with Myoko festival – the biggest festival of Apatani tribe. This festival is celebrated to propitiate the Gods for good harvest and usually happens in late March. The first day and the last day of the festival is particularly interesting. We can also plan the tour around Boori Boot festival which happens in early February.

Day 7: ZIRO – MAJULI ISLAND

Today we will undertake a longish drive to Bogibill ghat where we will take a public ferry to cross Brahmaputra River to reach Majuli Island. We stay here for two nights.

Day 8: MAJULI ISLAND

Majuli is the largest fresh water mid-river deltoid island in the world. It is situated in the upper reaches of Brahmaputra River in Assam. With a population of about 160 thousands, majority of them tribal, Majuli is endowed with rich heritage and has been the abode of the neo-Vaishnavite culture. The island is a bio-diversity hotspot and has rich ecology with rare species of flora and fauna.

For the past five centuries, Majuli has been the cultural capital of Assam. The main depositories of cultural and spiritual heritage are the Sattras, which are just like Gurukul (hermitages) of yore. Here up to 400 celibates’ stay for life preserving spiritual and cultural heritage, renouncing worldly desires. From the time of the great Vaishnavite renaissance of 14th and 15th century, under Srimanta Sankardeva, Srimanta Madhab Deva and other saints this island became the seat of Vaishnavite religion, art and culture. The famous Satriya Nritya (dance) and Ankiya Bhaona (traditional drama) have got a global acclaim. Majuli is also famous for Tribal Folk Culture and Heritage. It is said to be the cradle of Missing and Deori cultures. Explore in and around Majuli.

We have the full day to visit various satras. The most notable are Samuguri Satra, famous for mask making; Uttar Kamalabari, the oldest Satra and Unauiti Satra, the biggest Satra. We also visit the Missing tribal village.

Day 9: MAJULI ISLAND – SIBSAGAR

Today morning, we will take a ferry out of Majuli Island to Nimatighat. You will then drive to Sibsagar.

Sibsagar was the capital of the Ahom rulers from 1228 to 1826. Sibsagar got its present name from Sibsagar tank, excavated by the Ahom queen Ambika. The tank was named after her husband, Shiva Singha. Sibsagar tank is also known as Borpukhuri, meaning a big lake. Shiva Dol, Vishnu Dol and Devi Dol are the three temples on the banks of Sibsagar. We stay in Sibsagar for the night and visit the Talatal Ghar and Rang Ghar – the Royal Observatory along with Sibsagar tank and temples around it.

Day 10: SIVSAGAR – MON

Today we will drive to Mon. The drive is through pristine tea gardens. We stay in Mon for two nights.

Day 11: MON

Today we will visit the tribal villages around Mon. We drive to Longwa village, close to Myanmar border. Longwa is one of the biggest villages in the region with some portion of the village lying in India and some in Myanmar. The village is controlled by a chief called as “Angh”. Half of the house of the chief falls in India and the other half in Myanmar. The villagers have dual citizenships of India and Myanmar! We will visit the village and learn about their culture. The tribe is skilled in making exquisite handicrafts. In the afternoon, we will visit another tribal village of Hongpoi Village. This tribe is called Konyaks and have peculiar tattoos.

Day 12: MON – JORHAT

Today we will drive to Jorhat. It was the last capital of the Ahom Kingdom and home to many historical monuments of Assamese culture. Jorhat is renowned for tea production and has one of the largest tea research centres in India. We spent the night in a tea planter’s bungalow.

Day 13: JORHAT – KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK

Today we drive to famous Kaziranga national park. A famous reserve on the banks of the Brahmaputra, Kaziranga National Park is home to the one-horned rhino. Also to be found in the swamps and tall grass are buffalo, swamp deer, hog deer, tiger and wild elephant. We will begin our jungle experience with an afternoon safari in the park.

Day 14: KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK

Another day is spent exploring the park. We will enjoy morning and afternoon game drives in the park. There is an option to do elephant safari in the morning.

Day 15: KAZIRANGA – GUWAHATI – KOLKATA

Today we will drive to Guwahati airport for the short flight back to Kolkata where we stay for the night.

Day 16: DEPART KOLKATA

You will be transferred to airport in time to board your flight back home!

Suggested Extension

The Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya

Extend this tour to neighbouring state of Meghalaya to see villages of Khasi tribe and the Living Root Bridges. Meghalaya, meaning the Abode of Clouds, owes its name to the prodigious humidity drawn over its hills from the Bay of Bengal. The state, sandwiched between Assam and Bangladesh, boasts one of the highest rainfalls anywhere on earth. The Khasi Hills on the South West receive the lion’s share of the downpours and the village of Cherrapunjee is notorious for receiving an average of 12m rainfall per year – twenty times more than London! A detour to this fascinating, predominantly tribal region is definitely worth. We also see the so-called Living Bridges which the locals use to cross the river and its tributaries below Cherrapunjee. By training roots of ficus elastic trees over the water, they’re able to create spans which are able withstand the rigours of the Meghalayan climate. A revealing fact is that the bridges take more than a generation to make; responsibility for their upkeep often passes to the eldest daughter in this matrilineal part of the world!

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Tea Gardens of Eastern India

After water, tea is the most widely consumed beverage in the world! India is the worlds largest producer of Tea. This tea tour takes you to the very places where famous Assam Tea are planted, produced, processed and packaged. The accommodation is in colonial tea bungalow bringing back the nostalgic feelings of the bygone era. Come, join us for a drink!

The journey is through lush green fields with mist covered mountains at the backdrop, voices of cicadas and birds filling the air with no other sounds to compete with them, cool unpolluted wind carrying the drifting odour of fresh tea from the factories. The accommodation is in colonial tea bungalow â€“ bringing back the nostalgic feelings of the bygone era. Come, join us for a drink!

Darjeeling tea has traditionally been prized above all other black teas, especially in the UK and the countries comprising the former British Empire. When properly brewed it yields a thin-bodied, light-coloured liquor with a floral aroma a tinge of astringent tannic characteristics, and a musky spiciness. A sweet cooling aftertaste should be felt on the mouth.

Assam is a black tea named after the region of its production. This tea grown at sea level is known for its body, briskness, malty flavor, and strong, bright color. Though Assam generally denotes the distinctive black teas from Assam, the region produces relatively smaller quantities of green and white teas with their own distinctive characteristics.

A tea estate is a perfect domicile in natures lap. For city dwellers a tea estate would be a real treat to the eye, an apt location for relaxing the tired mind, totally an ideal place to spend a holiday. The idea is to provide a person, who lives far away from nature, deprived of all nice things that nature offers, a chance to reside in a completely natural environment. A tea tour would include nature walks around the garden, trekking, chance to harvest and prepare their own tea and accommodation in one of the antique wooden bungalows in the garden. It is a rewarding experience for a tea enthusiasts and a dealer alike!

Tour Plan – Kolkata – Glenburn – Tezpur – Jorhat – Dibrugarh – Kolkata

Tour Program

Day 01: Kolkata

You will arrive Kolkata airport and will be transferred to Oberoi Grand – a Deluxe Colonial Hotel – at Chowringhee for overnight stay. The famous new market of Kolkata is a short walk away from your hotel.

Day 02: Kolkata – Glenburn

Take a morning flight to Bagdogra. You will be met and driven to Glenburn Tea Estate on the outskirt of Darjeeling. Started by a Scottish tea company in 1859, Glenburn is a heavenly little plantation retreat that lies on a hillock above the banks of the River Rungeet, high in the Himalayas, overlooked by the mighty Kanchenjunga mountain range. You will stay at Glenburn for next two nights.

Day 03: Glenburn

Today you will begin your “Tea Experience” by walking through tea fields with one of our guides, who will give you an insight into how the tea bush is grown and looked after. You will learn how to pluck the “two leaves and a bud” – that is later manufactured into the tealeaf that ends up in your teacup! During the winter season, learn about the different types of pruning that is undertaken to increase the yield of the coming season.

Day 04: Glenburn – Tezpur

Rise early morning today to drive back to Bagdogra airport. Take a flight to Guwahati. You will be met and driven to Tezpur (5 hours drive). The tea auction is held twice a week at Guwahati – Tuesday and Wednesday. If possible, we will take you to Tea Auction center to observe the proceedings before driving to Tezpur. You will stay at Wild Mahseer Lodge situated inside the Adabari Tea Estate for two nights. The Wild Mahseer Lodge is located on the north bank of the Brahmaputra River. The Adabari Tea Estate, which originally belonged to the British Assam Tea Company, goes back to the year 1900. Till 1962, the manager operated from the single-storied Burma teak bungalow here. Subsequently, the office was shifted, and the sprawling bungalow was left unoccupied. The property has been renamed Wild Mahseer (after a popular fish found in the Brahmaputra and Jiabharali river nearby), and the bungalow has been re-christened The British Assam Heritage Bungalow.

Day 05: Tezpur

Spend a leisurely day at the Tea Estate enjoying the warm hospitality and the scenic beauty. Enjoy various blends of tea from the Adabari Tea Estate in a “Tea tasting session”.

Day 06: Tezpur – Jorhat

After breakfast you will drive to Jorhat (4-5 hours). Jorhat, the gateway to north-east Assam is the heartland of tea. Besides its many tea estates, it has the famous Teklai Experimental Centre that conducts research on new varieties of tea and its therapeutic effects.

Your stay for next two nights is arranged at the Burra Sahib’s Bungalow or the Thengal Manor. Starting with the British colonial exterior, soak in the sprawling interiors of carpeted, wooden floors, four to five bedrooms, high ceilings, verandahs with sloping roofs and a panoramic view of acres of flower-bedecked garden. Take a peek into the life of the tea estate manager as he begins his day at 6 AM. Walk with him as he makes his rounds of the garden.

Day 07: Jorhat

Enjoy a life in the Tea Estate – amidst early morning mist, trilling songbirds and rolling, verdant hills… Yes, it is indeed a world apart, if you happen to be staying in a ‘burra sahib bungalow’, where the tea estate manager lives. Known for their quaint, colonial architecture, these bungalows are associated with a unique and graceful lifestyle of an age gone by.

Have a leisurely breakfast. Spend the morning relaxing amidst the tea estate taking an occasional stroll and tasting the exquisite varieties of tea. Visit the tea factory later in the day and witness first-hand the various processes carried out there followed by a “Tea tasting session”.

Day 08: Dibrugarh

After breakfast you will drive to Dibrugarh (3 hours drive). Your stay for next two nights is arranged at Mancotta Chang Bunglow located at the Mancotta Tea Estate. The bungalow still retains its old world charm because of its large rooms with wooden flooring and old colonial furniture. Watch a traditional dance performance by the local tea tribes in the evening sipping the garden fresh tea.

Day 09: Dibrugarh – Kolkata

Afternoon you will be transferred to the airport to board your return flight to Kolkata. You will stay in Kolkata for one night (or more if you wish explore this Metropolis)

Day 10: Depart Kolkata

You will be transferred to the airport to board your flight back home.

(Please note Tea Factories are functional from March to October only)

Kaziranga Extension:

On day 09, drive from Dibrugarh to Kaziranga National Park, famous for its one-horned rhino. It is also home to the wild buffalo, swamp deer, tiger and elephant; apart from being rich in bird-life. Stay three nights on full board at the well-run Jungle Resort and enjoy jungle activities including game drives and elephant safaris. Fly to Kolkata on day 12 for a night in hotel before flying to onward destination.

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Journey to Tawang

Arunachal is, literally, the land of the rising sun, where dawn first greets the easternmost state of India. Tawang is the crowning glory of this land. It is one of the largest and most important Buddhist centres in the world; the monastery, half a millennium old, pulsing with spiritual life, holds a significant collection of scriptures, images and thangkas.

Tribal groups of Burmese and Tibetan descent, proud of their unique identities, live harmoniously in timeless settlements between the mighty Brahmaputra and the Eastern Himalaya. Even our journey is sublime, taking you from tropical forests through tribal towns into the mountain roads and over the amazing Sela Pass at 14,000 feet above sea level. We have time in Tawang to immerse ourselves in this place of prayer and meditation. We also visit tribal villages and stay in Nameri National Park, home to rhino, tiger and numerous bird species. Invigorated and refreshed, our return journey takes us back through Assam and, by way of complete contrast, a couple of nights in the archetypal city of India that is Kolkata.

Tour Program

Day 01: Kolkata

You will arrive Kolkata airport and will be transferred to your hotel for overnight stay. The famous new market of Kolkata is a short walk away from your hotel.

Day 02: Kolkata – Tezpur

In the morning fly to Guwahati, the capital of Assam. Here you’ll be met and driven on to Tezpur for a night at hotel.

Day 03: Tezpur – Bomdila

Start your ascent into the densely forested high Eastern Himalaya today with a drive to Bomdila. Visit the Tipi Orchid centre en route. The night is spent at the simple hotel. Visit the local monastery and tribal villages this afternoon.

Day 04: Bomdila – Tawang

A long but spectacular drive takes you over the high Sela Pass (4,180 metres) and into the almost mythical valley of Tawang. Stay at the hotel for three nights.

Days 05 and 06: Tawang

The next two days are free to explore the valley with your guide and driver. This will include visits to the Tawang Monastery which houses a collection of priceless artifacts dating back hundreds of years. There are also many smaller nunneries in the area and the colourful ‘Monpa’ people with their distinctive head dress.

Day 07: Tawang – Dirang

Leaving Tawang with fond memories you’ll retrace the route back across the Sela Pass, this time stopping at the settlement of Dirang. The village still has much of its medieval architecture intact.

Day 08: Dirang

Dirang is a charming village to relax and spend time visiting the nearby tribal villages and the Shangtey Valley.

Day 09: Dirang – Nameri

You will descend down from the forested hills onto the steamy plains and the rich ecosystem of Nameri National Park. You will stay for next two nights at the Jungle Camp.

Day 10: Nameri

There are options for nature walks, angling and day hikes. For the more adventurous a rafting trip can be arranged.

Day 11: Nameri – Guwahati

Drive back to Guwahai for an overnight stay. Take a sightseeing tour of the city including the famous Kamakhya Temple.

Day 12: Guwahati – Kolkata

Fly to Kolkata, known in India as the ‘city of Joy’; stay in hotel for 2 nights.

Day 13: Kolkata

Visit the sights this morning including the imposing Victoria Memorial, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Indian Museum. The afternoon is free at your own leisure.

Day 14: Depart Kolkata

You will be transferred to the airport to board your flight back home.

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Tribals and Textiles of Gujarat

This comprehensive tour of Gujarat takes you to famous Textile Museum in Ahmedabad; the amazing complex of mosques at Champaner; the Jain temples of Palitana surely one of the seven wonders of India, perched on the tip of the Shatrunjaya hills; the Indus Valley site of Lothal, dating from 2500 BC and the Gir Forest, preserving the Asiatic lion.

Gujarat was often the first port of call for Arab traders in their dhows and later an important commercial centre for the Portuguese, the English and the Dutch. Here they established trading posts with the local rulers, dealing, among other things, with printed cotton and embroideries, for both of which Gujarat is still famous. Many erstwhile rulers have recently transformed their palaces and royal guest-houses into hotels.

The sights include Ahmedabadâ’s famous Textile Museum; the amazing complex of mosques at Champaner; the Jain temples of Palitana – surely one of the seven wonders of India, perched on the tip of the Shatrunjaya hills; the Indus Valley site of Lothal, dating from 2500 BC and the Gir Forest, preserving the Asiatic lion.

Birdlife is prolific throughout Gujarat and the salt plains of the Little Rann of Kutch are the last refuge of the wild ass. This comprehensive tour also visits villages that are home to tribes such as Rabaris, Ahirs and Meghwals. Your stay is in comfortable though simple accommodation including royal residences, heritage hotels and tented accommodation.

Tour Plan: Ahmedabad – Jambughoda – Bhavnagar – Gir – Gondal – Bhuj – Dasada – Poshina – Ahmedabad

Tour Itinerary

Day 01: Ahmedabad

You will arrive Ahmedabad and stay for 2 nights. You will begin a typical “Gujarati” experience by attending an elaborate traditional dinner at the Vishala Restaurant, with a chance to see the Museum of Utensils.

Day 02: Ahmedabad

Today morning you will start sightseeing of Gujarat by visiting Sabarmati Ashram of Mahama Gandhi. Later visit the Calico Museum – to learn about several traditional textile arts. You will also visit Sidi Syed Mosque and Adalaj step-well.

Day 03: Jambughoda

Today morning you drive to Champaner. A former capital of Gujarat, Champaner is a remarkably well-preserved city, with ancient Hindu, Jain temples. It has vast complex of mosques built by Mehmud Begada. The whole working of a well-planned capital city is still in evidence, from granaries and fortifications to step-wells and cemeteries. Champaner became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. You will drive on to Jambughoda Palace, a simple royal mansion in the midst of mature gardens – a beautiful retreat for nature lovers.

Day 04: Jambhughoda

Today you will visit the local tribal villages of Rathwas and Nayaks.

Day 05: Bhavnagar

Drive to Bhavnagar today morning. En route you will visit the 4000 years old Harappan ruins at Lothal. Stay in Bhavnagar for next two nights

Day 06: Bhavnagar

Today you will enjoy an excursion to Palitana and visit the temple complex on the hilltop. These temples are reached by a steep flight of stairs, palanquins can be arranged, if required. The Palitana temples are considered the most sacred pilgrimage place by the Jain community, and are the world’s largest Temple Complex. There are more than 3000 temples located on the Shatrunjaya hills, exquisitely carved in marble. The main temple on top of the hill, is dedicated to 1st tirthankar lord Adinath (Rishabdeva). On the top the Shatrunjai Hill is a cluster of Jain temples, built by generations of Jains over a period of 900 years, from the 11th century onwards. Every devout Jain aspires to climb to the top of the mountain at least once in his lifetime, because of its sanctity.

Day 07: Gir

You will drive to Sasangir National Park today. Sasangir park is famous for Asiatic Lions. You will enjoy a jeep safari in the afternoon to spot Lions and other wildlife. Stay in Sasangir for the night.

Day 08: Gondal

Drive to Junagarh in the morning. You will visit the Ashokan Rock Edicts and the Junagadh Fort. Drive on to Gondal for two nights stay.

Day 09: Gondal

Gondal is a good base to explore the nearby tribal villages. The Royal family of Gondal has a fine collection of antique cars.

Day 10: Bhuj

Today you will undertake a long drive to Bhuj – the capital of the desert region of Kutch. You will stay in Bhuj for next two nights.

Day 11: Bhuj

Kutch Region is famous for traditional handicraft. The tribal villages still practice ancient crafts. You will visit nearby tribal villages famous for textiles, pottery, embroidery etc.

Day 12: Dasada

Today morning you will travel to Dasada – in Little Rann of Kutch. Afternoon you will enjoy a jeep safari into Little Rann of Kutch to spot wild asses – endemic to this area. The elegant blackbuck (Indian antelope), Nilgai or Blue bull (India’s largest antelope) and the graceful Chinkara (Indian gazelle) are other mammals seen here. The Little Rann of Kutch is also a birding paradise. During safaris you can see large flocks of Larks, and other dry-land birds like Sandgrouse, Coursers, Plovers, Chats, Shrikes etc. You will stay overnight in Dasada.

Day 13: Poshina

Drive to Modhera in the morning to see the beautiful Sun Temple. Carry on to the city of Patan, visit the famous step-well, Rani-ki-wav, and see the skilful art of double-ikkat-weaving of patola textiles. Patola Weaving is the most difficult forms of weaving in the world. It uses a double ikkat style where the warp and weft threads are dyed meticulously before weaving, according to pre-designed pattern. You will drive on to Poshina for two nights’ stay.

Day 14: Poshina

Poshina is base to visit Garasia tribal. You will visit their charming villages today.

Day 15: Ahmedabad

Today morning you will drive back to Ahmedabad to board your return flight home.

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Experience Ladakh with luxurious Chamba Camps

A land of varying landscapes, from white deserts to blue lakes, snow-capped mountains to lush valleys, Ladakh, like a dream captured in a snow globe, is a wildly beautiful milieu set between the Kunlun Mountains and the Himalayas. Embark on a nomadic journey in canvas luxury. Unfurl the centuries-old culture of Ladakh, exploring her fascinating monuments, quaint monasteries enriched with ancient art forms, fairs and festivals. Experience Ladakh in its entire splendor at the Chamba Camp, Thiksey ; Deskit.

There is a Buddhist word which best describes such an utopia, “Shangri La”, an Earthly Paradise – an oasis of peace and tranquility; this word best describes the camp and its many bespoke services. The blessed and serene hamlet of Thiksey lies at an altitude of 3, 500 mtrs (11, 550ft) a.s.l. Located in the shadows of the famed and iconic Thiksey Monastery , this used to be a brown , barren and rocky moraine now converted into a Green Zone with 03 water bodies and also an organic garden.

Sitting in the twin shadows of Stok Kangri and the Ladakh range, Chamba Camp in Thiksey, enjoys the stark landscape of ever-changing colours. The chanting of prayers from the nearby Thiksey Monastery, echoes in the silence of the mountains. The camp welcomes you to this rejuvenating view every single day. The camp offers outdoor seating by three water bodies. Each seating area has its own aqua deck with a plethora of dining options and an indoor setting, equipped with fun games to keep you entertained.

Try your hand at archery and croquet, or watch a game of Polo, the ancient sport of the royals.If you’re in the mood for some adventure, hop onto a bicycle to explore the nearby villages. Walk amongst ancient stupas, and beautiful, gnarled trees, or just sit back, and enjoy the birdsong that our campsite is blessed with. We guarantee a soul-stirring experience!

Highlights

Leh Heritage Walk Walk the Talk through our well curated research of the Ancient city of Leh
Hemis Monastery Rediscover the secrets of the largest and richest monastery of Ladakh
Stok Palace Village exploration of this beautiful hamlet which houses a palace and also an ancient traditional Ladakhi home
Alchi Monastery Bring alive the essence of Buddhist teachings at this Cent 11th UNESCO Heritage site
Birders Paradise Study birds as migrate to nest on the wetland of the Indus Valley
Séance with the Spirits Meeting up with the village oracle is a life changing experience
White Water Rafting Ride the exciting rapids as you hurl down the Grand Canyon of Asia
Cycling in Wari La Breathtaking downhill mountain cycling from the world’s fourth highest motorable pass ( 5,312 mtrs 17,427 fts.)
Pangong Tso Visit “the enchanted lake” on the Indo-China border

Tour Plan

Day 1: Following your arrival at Leh, transfer to the Chamba camp in Thiksey. Soak in the serenity and picturesque surrounding as you relax and acclimatize.

This morning, following your arrival into Leh, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your residence, Chamba Camp, Thiksey. Soak in the serenity of the surroundings as you are accorded a traditional Ladakhi welcome. You will then be accompanied to your well-appointed Luxury Tent after your check-in formalities at the Reception Tent is completed.There will be no activity on your day of arrival as it is medically mandated that you relax and undergo minimal exertion enabling you to acclimatize to the rarefied oxygen levels at this high-altitude. The excursion specialist at Chamba camp, Thiksey will meet with you to discuss the itinerary suggested and help you plan your excursions and make changes if required, to suit your interests, choices and leisure.

You may take a stroll through the blessed hamlet of Thiksey and engage with the joyous local community and its pastoral lifestyle, immersing you to the scintillating peace and tranquility.

Meal: Lunch and Dinner

Overnight in Chamba camp, Thiksey

Day 2: The Little Tibet Experience.

chamba camp

Today brings a late start, leaving the morning free for you to enjoy a leisurely breakfast and walk around the camp site, taking in the sights and the peaceful milieu where each tent opens out on to alfalfa pastures. Enjoy the view of the willow trees as the wind gracefully brushes the branches and the rustling sound of the poplar trees create an aura of unmatched beauty and serenity, making you unwind and relax.

Or, you may take an easy, invigorating walk in the vicinity of the camp through the lush farmlands of Nyerma, with insight into ancient knowledge of medicinal herbs, agricultural practices and religious life in the nunnery.

Return to the camp for your lunch.

This afternoon following lunch, you will visit the famed Matho Monastery.

The village of Matho is located at the mouth of a deep gorge running out of the Zanskar Range and across the river Indus. Founded in 1410 by Lama Dunpa Dorje, it belongs to the Sakya Order. It is noted for its six-hundred-year-old thangkas and its conservation project of the monastery undertaken by local women and led by a spirited team from all parts of the globe.

We then proceed on a gentle orientation tour of Leh. Our Leh City Heritage walk ushers you to the labyrinth of the by-lanes of Leh City under the gaze of the imposing 17th century nine storied Leh City Palace.

Our walk takes you through this last big frontier town where everything from daily needed rations, locally spun woolen clothing, rugs, yak fur and yak tail and ritualistic items can be sourced. The city boulevard presents a cauldron of shops which sell Pashmina shawls, stoles to Tibetan handicraft items. A few scattered curio shops also offer Tibetan silver jewelry and traditional Ladakhi jewelry set with turquoise, jade and emerald.

Your walk concludes near Chubi village where your vehicle will pick you up and take you to Shanti Stupa, perched upon a great vantage point over Leh, with spectacular views of this mesmerizing stone strewn landscape.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight in Chamba camp, Thiksey

Day 3: Two Paths to Nirvana.

monastery-thiksey

An early morning start with tea and coffee followed by a visit to the Thiksey monastery, which stands about a kilometer from your camp. This beautiful monastery houses a two storey statue of the Maitreya Buddha seated on a lotus and boasts of a spectacular view of the Leh valley. At the monastery, you will have the privilege to participate in the Buddhist morning prayer ceremony at sunrise.

Continue on a guided tour of the monastery, visiting the beautiful prayer room which has many handwritten and painted books as well as the temple dedicated to goddess Tara with her 21 images placed in glass-covered wooden shelves. You will also see small shrines devoted to the guardian divinities including Cham-Sing, the protector deity of Thiksey.

Return to the camp for a hearty breakfast.

The rest of the morning is free, allowing you time to relax and take in the pristine beauty around you.

After a sumptuous lunch at camp, proceed to explore the jewel in the crown of the Drukpa lineage, the Hemis Monastery, the biggest monastic institution of Ladakh, situated about 23 kilometres (45 mins) from Thiksey. Built in a secluded valley, the monastery belongs to the Drukpa School or the Dragon Order of Tibetan Buddhism. Explore the many interesting facets of this institution, established under the patronage of King Senge Namygal in the 17th century, where young lamas are taught literature, history, philosophy, yoga and tantra. The monastery halls are adorned with beautiful statues and mural paintings.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight in Chamba camp, Thiksey

Day 4: Bid farewell to the Land of the Lamas.

chamba camp

Today you bid farewell to the enchanting and breath-taking mountainous and rugged terrain of Ladakh, as you proceed on your onward destination.

Meal: Breakfast

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Source of The Ganges Trek

The trek to the source of the Ganges as one of the most sacred river â€“ starts from the Gangotri temple. It is the temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga. The trek follows the Ganga through dense forests and grassy meadows, taking you to the Source of the holy river. On the way, you find scantily clad sadhus in the lotus position, meditating on the bank of the icy cold water coming out the glacier. Further up, Tapovan is a high altitude meadow surrounded by numerous peaks.

The Ganges is considered the most sacred river in India. Legend has it that the Goddess Ganga descended to Earth from the heavens at Gangotri. So Gangotri is considered to be the source of the river. The actual source, however, lies 19 km from Gangotri, at Gaumukh. Our trek starts from Gangotri. The spiritual intensity here is palpable as you witness the daily puja at the temple and witness Hindu devotees bathing in the freezing waters of Bhagirathi. The trek follows the river upstream to the actual source at Gaumukh and Tapovan. This exciting trek offers fantastic view of beautiful mountains like Shivling (6543 m), Meru and the Bhagirathi group of mountains.

Detail Itinerary (11 Nights – 12 Days)

Day 01: Arrive Delhi

On arrival at Delhi airport met our representative and then transfer to pre booked hotel. Overnight in the hotel.

Day 02 : Delhi – Haridwar – Rishikesh

In the morning board the morning Shatabdi A/C train to Haridwar to reach at noon at the Haridwar Railway Station – and meet our company representatives ; thereafter drive to Rishikesh (a 45 minutes drive). In the evening visit the Ganga river bank for the spectacular and moving Aarti- spectacle of sights, sounds and chanting. Rishikesh is well known for its scenic beauty and the spiritual experience. Flanked by the Shivalik range of the Himalayas. It is fabled that when Raibhya Rishi did a hard penance, God appeared by the name of “Hrishikesh” and this area thereafter came to be known as Rishikesh (Locks of the sage). Overnight in hotel.

Day 03 : Rishikesh – Uttarkashi (170 kms/ 4-5 hrs)

Post breakfast – the drive takes one to Uttarkashi along the narrow Ganga and Bhagirathi valleys. The road goes past the sacred confluence of The Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers at Devprayag where there is a Lord Rama temple called the Raghunath Mandir visited by the great Hindu philosopher – Adi Shankaracharya in 300CE .This town is the home of the late Acharya Shri Pt. Chakradhar Joshi (a scholar in Astronomy and Astrology) who established Nakshatra Vedh Shala (an observatory considered the second best in the country in the pre independence days), located on a mountain called Dashrathanchal at Devprayag. The observatory is well equipped with two telescopes and many books to support research in astronomy. It also contains about 3000 manuscripts from 1677 AD onwards collected from various parts of country.

Uttarkashi is a town located in the wide Bhagirati valley, and has been a centre for learning and religion since the days of the Vedas! This sacred town has been home to some very famous sages and saints. The name of the town reflects its similarity to and location (as north of) the city of Kashi (Varanasi). Similar to Varanasi, town of Uttarkashi lies next to a hill named Varunavrat Parvat, and set on the banks of river Bhagirathi at an altitude of 1158 metres, about 145 kms from Rishikesh on the main route to Gangotri. The famous Vishwanath temple here is dedicated to Lord Shiva. In front of the temple is unique Mahadev-ka-Vishal Trishul or Shiva’s Great Trident, made of eight major metals (Astadhatu). It is believed Lord Shiva killed Vakasur with this trident. Other important temples are dedicated to Lord Parashuram, Lord Ekadash Rudra and Goddess Kali.

Uttarkashi is an important stopover for pilgrims visiting Gangotri. Uttarkashi has also emerged as an important centre for adventure sports.. Overnight in hotel.

Day 04 : Uttarkashi – Gangotri (3048 m/ 10,000 ft) Drive (95 kms).

After breakfast drive to reach Gangotri via Harsil (approx 25 km before Gangotri (3048 mt) by covering approx 95 km in 4-5 hrs. On arrival check-into Hotel. Overnight stay. Witness and admire the beautiful Gorge at Bhairon Ghati over which there is a steel girder bridge.
Gangotri is the place where the Goddess Ganga descended on Earth from Heaven, and a Temple of Goddess Ganga marks the spot where the Goddess descended to the Earth.The shrine of Gangotri is situated at an elevation of 3200 m surrounded by Deodars (Cedar) and Chir (Pines). The original temple was constructed by the Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa. Every year people from all around the world visit this shrine. A number of Ashrams and Dharamshalas are located on the far side of the river. It is believed that Raja Bhagirath used to worship Shiva on a slab of rock known as “Bhagirath Shila” situated near the temple. Submerged in the river there is a natural Shivling where, according to mythology, Lord Shiva sat when he received the Goddess Ganga in his matted locks. A day’s trek takes one to Gomukh, the source of the mighty Ganges.

Day 05 : Gangotri (3048 mts/10000 ft) – Bhojwassa (3792 mts/12440 ft) 13 kms trek/5-6 hrs)

Post breakfast the trek commences towards Bhojwassa via Chirvasa (3600mt) along a well trodden and well laid path following a gentle incline along the picturesque Gangotri valley. The entire trek on this day is along the roaring Bhagirathi River. Bhojvasa is the last oasis on this route and has a lot of trees, but beyond this point the terrain becomes totally desolate and barren. In fact, it has been compared to the Artic Tundra by many trekkers. From Chirvasa one continues to ascend higher towards Bhojwasa,- the last inhabited place on this route.

The arrival at Bhojwasa is heralded by a descent, that continues for a good 750 metres or so to arrive at a small temple and a potential campsite near the river- the place to hit the sack for the night! Exploration of the surroundings and photography are a must do for the remainder of the day! Enjoy the excellent sunset on Bhagirathi group of peaks. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Day 06 : Bhojwassa – Gomukh (3890 mts/12760 ft) – Tapovan (4463 mts / 14640 ft)

Enjoy the panoramic view of Bhagirathi group of peaks while at Breakfast. Trek to Gomukh (3890mt),immediately after that towards the source of the Ganges. Gomukh is the spot where the water of Ganga trickles down from the glaciers, to descend into the Gangotri valley and beyond. The sages called it ‘Gomukh’, because in the distant past, it probably appeared like a cow’s mouth. Explore the area and trek to Tapovan, one of the finest high altitude alpine meadows in the area.

The trek from Gomukh to Tapovan is a ascent crossing over the Gaumukh glacier, and as one climbs, the view of the surrounding peaks becomes clearer, and appear to be just a stone’s throw away! Tapovan known for its beautiful meadows that encircle the base camp of the Shivling peak, visited by hundreds of tourist, mountaineers, trekkers and ascetics every year.

The campsite is grassy, with wild flowers as far as the eye can see, punctuated by innumerous bubbling streams, making this a very spectacular area for camping. Herds of Bharal (blue mountain goats) are a common sight from here as they clamber the precarious mountain ridges. On the far side of the glacier the Bhagirathi I, II, III (6454mt), provide an equally impressive backdrop. It is also the little wonder that this tranquility attracts Sadhus and saints for extended meditation during the long summer months. Dinner and overnight stay in camp.

Day 07 : Tapovan (4463 mts / 14640 ft)

Spend the entire day at leisure to acclimatize, relax and enjoy the magnificent snow clapped peaks, flora & Fauna and the mountain landscape afar! This is a golden opportunity for photographers and Painters/ Artists. Explore the Kriti & Meru Glacier. Dinner and overnight stay at the camp.

Day 08 : Tapovan – Bhojwassa (Trek 4-5 hrs)

Enjoy the view of the golden rays of sunrise on high peaks, and the crisp and dazzling morning sunshine on the campsite. Post breakfast make a swift descent down to Bhojwasa, covering the seemingly endless trek in a matter of hours. Arrive Bhojwasa and camp. Dinner and overnight stay at the camp.

Day 09 : Bhojwassa – Gangotri (Trek 4-5 hrs)

Enjoy breakfast in the shadow of the mighty Shivling peak, draped in the colour of the rising sun! Trek down to Gangotri – a continuous downhill path, Dinner and overnight stay at the Hotel / Rest house.

Day 10 : Gangotri – Uttarkashi

Breakfast in the holy town , after visiting the Ma Ganga temple and witnessing the morning Aarti. Drive to Uttarkashi. Spend the rest of the day exploring this town that draws parallels to another highly revered town – Kashi (Varanasi). Take out time to visit the Ashrams and the famed Nehru Mountaineering Institute – the breeding ground of the finest mountaineers in the subcontinent! On arrival check in to hotel. Overnight stay in hotel.

Day 11 : Uttarkashi – Haridwar – Delhi

Morning after breakfast drive to Delhi via Haridwar. On arrival transfer to hotel. Overnight stay.

Day 12 : Delhi Departure

Transfer to international airport according to your flight schedule.

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Heavenly Kashmir

Gar Firdaus roye zamin ast, hamin asto, hamin asto, hamin asto.

means.

If there is a paradise on earth, it is this, it is this, it is this!

Tranquil lakes, beautiful gardens, luxuriant flowers and fruits, rolling hills, walking in the valleys or drifting in a shikara as close as one gets to Paradise on Earth as Kashmir is often referred to. Experience the unique life-style, staying on board the famous houseboats of Srinagar in the middle of peaceful waters of Dal and Nagin Lakes. The valley of Gulmarg offers golf, horse-riding, and skiing. The Pahalgam has the prized rainbow trout, and scenic walks. This exhilarating journey through Kashmir’s own ˜Golden Triangle is truly a mesmerizing experience.

Heavenly Kashmir Tour – 6N/7D

Jammu, Srinagar, Sonmarg, Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Srinagar

Tour Details

Day 01 – Arrive Jammu – Srinagar (250 kms)
Arrive Jammu Train station and drive to Srinagar. On arrival check in to the hotel. Overnight stay at houseboat.

Day 02 – Srinagar & The City of Mughal

This morning after breakfast proceed for city tour of Srinagar. The world famous Mughal Gardens visiting the Nishat Bagh (The garden of pleasure) & Shalimar Bagh (Abode of love), & The Chasme Shahi Garden, & Shankaracharya Temple. In the evening return to Houseboat. Overnight at House boat.

Day 03 – Srinagar to Sonmarg – Srinagar
This morning after breakfast drives to Sonmarg. Explore the natural beauty of Sonmarg later come back to Srinagar for overnight stay.

Day 04 – Srinagar to Pahalgam
This morning after breakfast drives to Pahalgam 2440 Meters (Vale of Kashmir) on arrival check into your hotel. On the way visit Saffron field and Avantipur ruins, which is eleven hundred years old temple? Finally by the lunchtime you will reach Pahalgam, which is the most famous palace for Indian Film Industry. After lunch enjoy the nature charm of the valley.

Day 05 – Pahalgam to Gulmarg
This morning after breakfast drive to Gulmarg which is one of the most beautiful summer resort in the valley. On arrival check into your hotel. This afternoon visit One can have Gondola ride (cable car) from Gulmarg to Khalinmarg. Overnight at Hotel in Gulmarg.

Day 06 – Gulmarg (Sight Seeing)- Srinagar (52 kms)
After breakfast visit for the highest golf course in the world and skiing during the winter season. Visit Harmukh & Sun Set Peak. Later drive to Srinagar. On arrival check in to the hotel/House boat. Overnight stay.

Day 07 – Srinagar – Jammu (250 kms)
After breakfast drive to Jammu. On arrival you will be transferred to Airport/Train station for onward destination.

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Amazing Ladakh

The fact that attracts me most about Ladakh is that it is a cold desert situated in the lap of the mighty Himalayan range and Karakoram Range. This place will entice your heart and mind and provide you with an essence of tranquillity.

A quiet corner of Western Himalayas, where the dawn breaks with chants of lamas and the valley goes to sleep with flickering lights of butter lamps in its various monasteries, Ladakh is a land like no other; a land unknown to outsiders for many centuries, a land of awesome beauty, stark landscape, towering mountain peaks and unique cultural heritage. This ancient culture finds its manifestation in its religion, fairs & festivals and passed from generation to generations through prayer and folklore. Rugged mountain side dotted with monasteries and gompas, ancient Tibetan-Buddhist culture and valleys filled with fluttering flags leave the first time traveler awestruck by its beauty. Cross the world’s highest motorable road to reach the cold desert of Nubra valley and the last habitat of ˜Double Humped Bactrian Camel. Traveling through this amazingly beautiful land leaves a memorable impression and a sense of self containment “ a journey through ˜Ancient Future.

Amazing Ladakh Tour – 11N/12D

Leh, Alchi, Tingmosgarn, Lamayuru, Nubra Valley, Tsomoriri Lake, Tsokar, Tanglang La

Detailed Tour Plan

DAY 01 : ARRIVAL LEH

Arrival at Leh airport and transfer to the Hotel. Full day is t leisure to acclimatize yourself because of high altitude of Leh as it is 3500 Mtrs above the sea level. In the evening you will be visiting Leh Bazaar. Overnight stay at Hotel.

DAY 02 : LEH (MONASTERY TOUR)

Day excursion to the famous monasteries, it is interesting to visit Thiksey monasgtery early in the morning to witness the praying ceremony there.

Continue drive to Hemis monastery which is one of the most famous monasteries of the Ladakh region.

On the way back, visit Shey and Stok Palace. Overnight stay at hotel.

DAY 03: LEH – ALCHI – LIKIR- TINGMOSGAM (100 KM, 4 HOURS)

After breakfast drive to Tingmosgamo and on the way visit Alchi monastery which is 69 km west of Leh. Alchi monastery founded in 11th century is largest and most famous of all temples built by great translator Ringchem Zangpo.

Then visit Likir, also known as Klu-Kkjil (water spirits) founded in 14th century. Continue drive to Tingmosgam which was Capital of Ladakh in the 15th century. The king Drag Pa Bum built the palace and fortress wall which encircles the places. Overnight stay at Hotel.

DAY 04 : TINGMOSGAM – LAMAYURU – TINGMOSGARN (50 KM, 2 HOURS)

After breakfasrt drive to Lamayuru which is one of the oldest monasteries of Ladakh region. The monastery was founded in the 10th century. Later, Rinchen Zangpo came here and built many temples and stupas. In the afternoon visit Tingmosgam Gompa and the village. Overnight stay at Hotel.

DAY 05 : TINGMOSGAM – RIDZONG – PHYANG – LEH (100KM, 5 HOURS)

After breakfast drive to Leh. En-route visit Ridozng and Phyang monastery. Rizong is also known as Yuma Changchubling, founded about 138 years ago by the great Lama Tsultim Nima Gompa belonging to Gelukpa order. Arrival at Leh and check in at hotel for overnight stay.

DAY 06 : LEH – NUBRA (DISKIT & HUNDER) – 130 KMS, 5 HOURS

After early breakfast at hotel drive to Nubra Valley with lunch box along. Stop en-route and visit Disket and Hundar monastery. On arrival check in at Camp. The valley is on the trade route from leh to Khangar via Samsar and Karakoram passes. Apart from unparalleled trekking opportunities, the valley has several Buddhist Gompas. Visit Diskit Gompa which is 350 years old and is situated on the highest point near the village. Overnight stay in Camp.

DAY 07 : NUBRA VALLEY

After breakfast drive to Panamik village. It is an incredibly beautiful place blessed by sheer beauty, rugged mountains and hot springs. The incredible thing about the village is the superb irrigation system built over decades; Return to the camp for Hot Lunch. In the Afternoon visit Samtaling monastery in Sumur village. This monastery belongs to the Gelukpa sect of Buddhism, the Dalai Lama’s branch. In the evening come back to camp for dinner and overnight stay.

DAY 08 : NUBRA – KHARDONG LA – LEH (130 KM, 5 HOURS)

After breakfast at the camp, drive to Leh with lunch box along. En route stop at Khardungla Pass ( 5359 m ) – world’s highest motorable pass. Khardong La is historically important as it lies on the major caravan route from Leh to Kashgar in Chinese Central Asia. About 10,000 horses and camels used to take the route annually. Continue drive to Leh. Upon arrival check in at the hotel. Rest of the day is free for shopping and independent activities. Dinner and overnight stay at hotel.

DAY 09 : LEH – CHUMATHANG – TSOMORIRI (240 KMS, 7 HOURS)

Leave in the morning and drive to Tsomoriri. Stop at Upshi for passport checking. En route visti Chumathang which is famous for medical hot spring. Visit Sumdah village on the way and continue drive to Tsomoriri. The Lake is breeding grounds for numerous species of birds. The Lake is 8 Kms. Wide and 28 Kms long. Dinner and overnight in tents.

DAY 10 : TSOMORIRI

In the morning visit Korzok village with its houses and its gompa appearing like a mirage. The few barley fields at Korzok must be among the highest cultivation in the world. In the afternoon visit around the Lake. Dinner and overnight in tents.

DAY 11 : TSOMORIRI – TSOKAR – TANGLANG LA – LEH 250 KM, 7 HOURS

Morning drive to Mahe village. Continue drive to Tsokar via Polo Kongka pass (4920 Mtrs.) and Tanglang La pass (5350 Mtrs.) which is the second highest motorable pass in the world. Arrive at Leh in the evening and check in at hotel for overnight stay.

DAY 12: DEPARTURE LEH
Early morning transfer to Leh airport to catch flight for onward destination

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Sailing Down The Ganges

Sailing down the Ganges, as it is popularly known, is a leisurely and slow pace trip through the heart of India captures the essence of life along the Ganges.

You start sailing from Allahabad (It is also called Prayagraj – one of the four places associated with Maha Kumbh that takes place every 12 years) to Varanasi – the oldest living city in the world. During the course it also offers a chance to explore and enjoy the rural culture from close. The trip can also be extended to include the marvels of Mughal and Rajputana architecture in Agra and Rajasthan with all its glory.

Tour Details

DAY 01: DELHI – ALLAHABAD

Report at Delhi Railway Station to board overnight train to Allahabad.

ALLAHABAD : one of the sacred cities of Hinduism & also one of the oldest in India. Formely known as Prayag, in commemoration of a sacrifice by Lord Brahama, Allahabad stands at the confluence of two of India’s holiest rivers, the Ganga & the Yamuna. The Sangam as the conflunece is called, is the venue of many sacred fairs & rituals and attracts thousand of pilgrims throughout the year. Akbar visited Prayag in 1575 & founded a new city by the name of Illahas, which has now become a modern Allahabad. The city was an important cantonment during the British Raj and has now some beautiful remains of colonial architecture.

DAY 02: ALLAHABAD – SITAMADHI – MURDGHAT

Met upon arrival at Allahabad Railway Station and proceed to hotel for breakfast, wash and change. If time permits take a short tour of Anand Bhawan (the birth place of first Prime Minister of India, Late Jawahar Lal Nehru), etc. After the short sightseeing drive to Sitamadhi Ghat approx 70 kms in 01 to 02 hrs. Set sail upon arrival. Lunch will be served on boat. Sail till 1800 hrs to arrive at Murdghat by covering appox 30 kms and pitch up tents on the river bank for dinner and overnight stay.

DAY 03: MURDGHAT – MIRZAPUR

Morning after breakfast start sailing further downstream, eastwards to reach Mirzapur by covering appox 50 kms. If you are lucky you can catch the wind and sail smoothly and can feel the speed also. Lunch will be served on boat around 1200 hrs. Enroute visit the Hindu temple dedicated to the Goddess Kali who is the gardien of Vindhyachal Mountain Ranges by noon. Sail further towards Mirzapur. Mirzapur is well known for its Hand Woven Cotton, Woolen Carpets and Brass ware. Arrive and pitchup camp beyond Mizapur on the banks of the river for dinner and overnight stay.

DAY 04: MIRZAPUR – VARANASI

Morning after breakfast sail towards Varanasi. Enroute visit Medeival Fort of Chunar, built by legendry King Vikramaditya, appox at 0800 hrs. Now the fort has been converted as training centre for the Uttar Pradesh Police. You are allowed to see only a little portion. On the way to the fort there is a Cematory of Britishers who had a short spell of power at Chunar. Sail further towards Varanasi, stopping at Ramnagar to see the Palace Museum with its collection of weapons of diffrent types, Palinquins, Ivory Items, Cars etc. appox at 1200 hrs. Lunch is served on the boat. River trip terminates at the first of the ghats, Lanka Ghat. Met upon arrival and transfer to hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

DAY 05: VARANASI

VARANASI : Also knwon as Banaras. It is one of the oldest living cities in the world & the ultimate pilgrimage for Hindus who believe that to die in the city is to attain instant salvation. Situation on the banks of the Ganga, Varanasi is the tract of holy land lying between the rivers Varuna & Assi which flow into Ganga. Varanasi is also known as Kashi, the city of light, since on of the twelve “Jyotirlingas” are installed here.

Morning after breakfast proceed to SARNATH . After Lord Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodhgaya he came to Sarnath. Several Buddhist strutures were raised at Sarnath between the 3rd century BC & the 11th century AD. Afternoon visit the famous Banaras Hindu University. One of the oldest educational University in India. Founded by Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya as a centre for the study of Indian art, culture, music & also for sanskrit. Return to the hotel for dinner & overnight stay.

DAY 06: VARANASI

Early morning proceed for the exciting Boat Cruise on the Holy River Ganges to witness the Sunrise. You can see locals as well as pilgrims standing in waist deep water praying to the rising sun and offering flowers and lighting oil lamps. On the ghats is situated the cremation ground where nearby itself people are engaged in washing cloths, vessels, animals. Enjoy the cruise and proceed for a short Temple tour covering Kashi Vishwanath temple also known as Golden Temple (Entry is restricted here) one can see the golden domes from the roof of an adjacent building, Bharat Mata temple (which is dedicated to whole of India), Kali Temple (known as Monkey temple because of their presence at all times). After lunch departure transfer to railway station in time to board the train for Delhi. Overnight in the train.

DAY 07: DELHI

Morning arrive at Delhi Railway Station.

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