Total Holiday Options AU Brochure 2014-15 by SMP Solutions

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THO Products and Services Private Car Tour

Tailor-Made Holiday

On a private journey you have the freedom of travelling in your own private vehicle with an English speaking driver and a local tour guide during sightseeing.

Let us know your style of holiday and some of the preferred sights you would like to visit and our destination experts will assist you in creating that holiday you have been waiting for.

Group Journeys Our Small Group trips are renowned for revealing the hidden gems of India, Sri Lanka and Nepal. Tours are carefully designed to experience variety of accommodations, local interaction, enjoy authentic cuisine leading to inspiring escapade for our travellers.

School & Educational Tours Our aim is to provide schools with some fantastic options and provide the perfect balance between study, fun and hands on experience including the best sightseeing attractions each country has to offer. We can provide all your requirements in a safe and well organised environment and keep within your schooling budget.

Royal Wedding & Honeymoon Been dreaming of a royal wedding? Planning a honeymoon? Celebrating an anniversary? Setting the stage for a dramatic marriage proposal? Our honeymoon and royal wedding specialist will help you personalise your romantic travel experience.

Houseboat Kerala & Kashmir An excellent way to experience hidden paradise often not easily reached by other means and for those seeking to combine the excitement of discovery travel with relaxation. These are not big voyages but boutique vessels equipped with all modern facilities and comfort.

Family Holiday We are family people and understand the real meaning of a family holiday. Any itinerary can be customised by our destination experts keeping in mind the needs of everyone, be they toddlers, teenagers or greatgrandparents.

Train Journey Experience one of the largest and efficient rail networks in the world and witness part of untouched and rural India passing by. Choose from our popular itinerary or let us tailormake a journey for you. Travelling by train in India is an adventure.

Business & Corporate Travel

Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events (MICE)

We offer complete business travel solutions from hotel booking, car hire, transfers, flight and train booking to boardroom conference with a 24/7 helpline in each country. We understand that plans can change at the last minute, for which you require a reliable and flexible travel organiser.

Managed by a team with 28 years experience. Innovative ideas and buying power is our strength, enabling us to deliver a well organised and spectacular experience that participants simply cannot forget. Try us once and you will be thankful you did!

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The Magic, the Mystery... We Make it Yours Travelling to India is not so much a journey but an experience. Its size, diversity, beauty and careless flowing of countless cultures make a journey through India a continuous cinerama. India embraces you, looks at you, evaluates you, turns you inside out and ensures that the tourist to India has an incredible experience. India is incredible and its past and present is a procession of images, people, places and periods. This is a land that continues to mesmerise with its larger than life image and an aura that is spellbinding, a land where spiritualism breathes in and out, where gods reside, where

every day is captivating and fascinating. An occasion, where the forts and palaces still echo the bugle of victory, where you witness the arena of intellectual exchange, where the mustard fields delight you and village life attracts you. Welcome onboard and witness a canvas of majestic landscapes, snow-capped mountains, endless plains, virgin beaches, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, fantastic fairs and festivals and museums, known to be the best in the world.

“So far as I am able to judge, nothing has been left undone, either by man or nature, to make India the most extraordinary country that the sun visits on his rounds. Nothing seems to have been forgotten, nothing overlooked.” MARK TWAIN

Responsible Tourism Promoting responsible tourism is always been priority of TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS. It’s our commitment which is supported by the travellers who choose to travel with us. We believe that without involving locals and respecting their culture and customs it’s almost impossible to have a memorable holiday. Travel is all about experiencing others culture, cuisine, customs and sights. Being a local tour operator to India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Australia and New Zealand we use services of local people who know the destinations inside out. Cooking and dining with locals during culinary familiarity, experiencing rickshaw ride, visiting handy craft village or staying in boutique hotels are few activities we add in the itinerary which provide employment opportunities to the underprivileged communities.

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CONTENTS PRIVATE CAR TOURS Festivals and Fairs of India & Sri Lanka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Train Journeys

Brochure Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Tigers & Taj by Rail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Family Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Honeymoon Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 India Hotel, Transfer and Sightseeing Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

India by Rail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Luxury Trains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Add ons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Sri Lanka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Hotel, Transfer and Sightseeing Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

GROUP JOURNEYS Information on Group Journeys. . . . 72

Group Journey Itineraries

Map & Temperature Chart . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Glimpse of Paradise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

North India Itineraries

Traditional Farming Tour of Lanka . . . . . . . 50

Golden Triangle & Tiger . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Golden Triangle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Highlights of Lanka. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Spice, Tea & Backwaters of Kerala. . . 75

Golden Triangle, Varanasi & Lucknow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Lanka & Leopard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Culinary Tour of North India. . . . . . . . 76

The Marigold Hotel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Best of Ceylon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Forts & Palaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Panoramic Lanka. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Himalayan Valley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Golf, Beach & Wildlife of Lanka . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Culinary, Culture & Shopping Tour. . 82

Splendid India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

The Architectural Gem of Geoffrey Bama. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Saffron to Bollywood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Golf Tour of India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Curry and Culture of India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Sri Lanka Add ons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Golden Triangle & Wellness Tour of India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Nepal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Gems of Northern India. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Rajasthan Heritage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Land of Maharajas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Wildlife Wonders of Lanka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Hotel, Transfer and Sightseeing Options. . . . 59

Gujarat & Rajasthan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Highlights of India & Nepal . . . . . . . . 94 Farm & Culture of India. . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Best of Bhutan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Tri Nation Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Premium Hotel Collection. . . . . . . . . 102

Myanmar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Booking Form. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Add ons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Glimpse of Myanmar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Culture & Cuisine of Myanmar . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Unique Experience

Highlights of Myanmar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Treasure of Kolkata & Orissa . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Family Fun in Myanmar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

The Big "5" & Tiger (Wildlife Tour). . . . . . . . . 33

Mystical Burma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Palace Trail of Central India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Grand Tour of Myanmar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Panoramic Leh Ladakh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Magical Myanmar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Diamond & Dynasty of Deccan. . . . . . . . . . . 36

Burma Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

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Classic Lanka. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Land of Dragons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Highlights of Gujarat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Adventure on Himalayan Foothills . . . . . . . 37

Incredible India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Nepal Delight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Bhutan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Gujurat

Highlights of Rajasthan. . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Kathmandu & Trekking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Essence of Kerala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Scenic South. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

The Perfect Click . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Best of Rajasthan & Kerala. . . . . . . . . 92

Essential Kathmandu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Magical South. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Cycling Sikkim & Tea Trails of India . 80

Kathmandu & Wildlife . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

South India Itineraries Spice of Kerala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Culinary Tour of South India . . . . . . . 78

Booking Conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 What People Say About our Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Festivals and Fairs of India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan & Myanmar The lively fairs and colourful festivals of any country are major attractions to the tourist because it reflects the vibrant culture of the country, history of these traditions, ethnic heritage, religious beliefs, myths, cuisine and the seasons. Below is a selection of some famous festivals and fair. Since dates are chosen in most festival according to local calendar we have given indicative month/date. Check with your agent or us to find out the exact date if you want to include it in your itinerary.

Ahmedabad International Kite Festival | JAN

It is regarded as one of the biggest festivals celebrated in Ahmedabad. You can choose to capture the kite filled skies in your Camera or check your Kite flying skill.

Goa Carnival | FEB

Goa Carnival is the eagerly awaited festival of Goa which is usually held for 3 to 4 days. The streets come alive with colors, lively processions, floats, the strumming of guitars, graceful dances and of non-stop festivity.

Mumbai Kalaghoda Art Festival | FEB

Every year from the first Saturday of February till the next Sunday, the Kala Ghoda area in South Mumbai comes to life with art and culture. Impressive art installations greet you at the entrance as you pass by vibrant stalls from across India selling bespoke clothes, paintings, curios, decorative pottery, silk scarves, and other artistic ensemble. On the opposite side are food stalls taken up by popular city joints.

Khajuraho Festival | FEB

Khajuraho Dance Festival is recognized by International dancers and academies. Offering village fair experience along with popular dances of India.

Agra Taj Mahotsav | FEB

This 10 days long carnival is a vibrant platform that gives you information of India where you can find India’s rich arts, crafts, cultures, cuisine, dance and music. The venue of the festival is Shilpgram near the Eastern gate of “Taj Mahal”.

Jaisalmer Desert Festival | FEB

Desert Festival of Jaisalmer is a colourful festival held in February every year. You will get to see Cultural events, camel races, turban tying competitions etc. Not exciting enough! Attend the contests to judge the man with the best moustache. With a final musical performance by folk singers under the moonlit sky at the dunes in Sam, just outside Jaisalmer, the festival comes to its end.

Jodhpur & Nagur Sufi Festival | FEB

Sufi Festival is a folk music festival held at Nagaur a small city in Rajasthan. This music festival attracts music lovers from all across the different countries.

Holi – The Festival of Colours | MARCH

One of the major festivals celebrated with enthusiasm and gaiety on the full moon day in February/March. If you are slightly adventurous and keen to experience various aspects of India, this could indeed be a perfect time. The weather is mild and the light good for photography.

Myanmar Water Festival | APRIL

If you are adventurous than you may love this festive. Usually fall in April where people are throwing water to each other in the faith that all the evil deeds of ones would be washed away before Buddhist New Year.

Vesak | MAY

This festival is considered as both a religious and cultural festival celebrated on the day of the full moon in May. The day is very sacred for Buddhists faith and celebrated across the world including India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Myanmar.

Sikkim Gangtok Flower Festival | MAY

The beautiful state of Sikkim in North East India is adorned with serene mountains, lush greenery and scented orange orchards. Thanks to its refreshing climate and natural topography. Sikkim has a collection of thirty species, International Flower Festival, Gangtok is a scented platform that displays different varieties of flowers that are commonly seen in the hill station. This festival takes place in the month of May, the peak flowering season in Sikkim.

Kerala Onam Festival | AUG/SEP

It is the state festival of Kerala and falls during the month of Chingam. This is one of the very few festivals which are celebrated with most number of cultural elements.

Sri Lanka Kandy Perahara | AUG

August is the month of Esala, where one of the most important annual Buddhist celebrations takes place in Kandy. At this event the Buddhism's most sacred relics, the Sacred Tooth, is taken from the Dalada Maligawa Temple in a golden casket and paraded through the streets of Kandy. The procession includes richly decorated elephants, fire-juggling acrobats, dancers, musicians, whip crackers, torch bearers, Swordsmen and thousands of barefoot pilgrims. This ceremony has happened every year since around 300 AD.

Dipawali | OCT/NOV

Diwali is a festival of lights symbolizing the victory of righteousness and the lifting of spiritual darkness. This is one of the most popular festivals in the India.

Pushkar Camel Fair | OCT/NOV

The Pushkar Fair is the annual five-day camel and livestock fair, held in the town of Pushkar. It is also a one of the world's largest camel fairs attracts thousands of tourists.

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Brochure Information 10 Reasons to Choose TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS for Your Holiday 1. At TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS we are proud to stake our claim as a true destination specialist, with a mission to carve for ourselves a niche in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan and Myanmar delivering unique tour experiences. 2. A Destination Management Company with over 36 owned and associated offices across India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal and Myanmar. 3. Flexible and Unique Itineraries. 4. Any Itinerary can be tailor-made with your choice of hotels, destination and activities. 5. Best value operator in our class. 6. World class customer service. 7. Wide selection of touring options. 8. 100% guaranteed departures. 9. Price Guarantee. 10. No hidden cost or local payment.

Private Car Tours

The tour packages in this brochure are a collection of popular Itineraries which can be used as it is or modified to suit your individual style and pace of travel. Our independent tours provide you with your own air – conditioned car well experienced English speaking driver, a private tour guide for sightseeing and assistance at each destination. Choose your own dates, select your preferred accommodation (Comfort, Deluxe or Luxury hotel), and enjoy the holiday you deserve.

Tailor-made Tours

Our Group and Private Car tours have been designed to feature a selection of the destination’s highlights, but they may not meet all of your requirements. At TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS we are proud to offer expert tailor-made services that enable us to construct your perfect holiday. Perhaps you would like to vary the standard of accommodation or modes of transport. On the other hand, you may want to create an entirely individual itinerary that includes destinations and experiences not covered in the brochure. Whatever your needs, we are happy to design a personalised itinerary and quote without obligation.

No Hidden Cost We love transparency so the prices shown in this brochure are almost all inclusive and help the traveller to budget their holidays accurately. All we ask you to do is relax and enjoy your holiday, knowing that all prepaid expenses have been included in your initial tour cost. Please refer to the tour inclusions for more details.

Trains of India

Travelling by train in India is comfortable, adventurous and fun. We use airconditioned chair cars for daytime short travel and air conditioned sleeper class for overnight journeys. Facilities onboard are 6 www.totalholidayoptions.com

both western style and squat toilets which are clean, however you cannot expect perfect western standards anywhere in India. Some itineraries also make use of the famous narrow gauge toy trains which are the best way to experience remote hill stations. Luxury trains mentioned in this brochure are luxury palaces on wheels with facilities of the modern world beside the charm of heritage India.

International Flights

The tour packages in the brochure are “Land only” and do not include international flights. We therefore recommend that you contact us or your travel agent to book your flights well in advance of travel, when you can generally gain access to cheaper airfares and flexibility of dates.

Pre and Post Accommodation

All prices shown in this brochure are in Australian dollars (AUD) and are on a per person basis. Twin share prices will only apply when you share a room with one of your travel companions.

Generally, day 1 and the final day of each trip are free days for you to arrive or depart. We can book pre and post tour accommodation for you if you would like to spend extra time exploring, as there are lots of sights to see and things to do for which you may not have time during the tour.

Add On

Travel Insurance

Brochure Prices

Extend or enhance your holiday with one or more of these little gems. Our carefully designed Add On can be used as short breaks on their own or as pre or post tour extensions. With all arrangements made they allow you to explore a region or city more in-depth.

Passport and Visas

INDIA: Visa is required for all nationalities and can be applied at the local office of the Indian High Commission. New Zealand passport holder can obtain Tourist Visa on arrival for up to 30 days. Conditions and Fee apply. SRI LANKA: Visa is required and can be obtained online at least 15 days before arrival in Sri Lanka. NEPAL: Visa is required and can be obtained on arrival. BHUTAN: Visa is required for all nationalities. THO can help obtain visa if the tour is booked, fee is included in our Bhutan Tour packages. MYANMAR: Visa is required for all nationalities. THO can help obtain visa if the tour is booked with us.

Tipping

Tipping in India has always been difficult as there are no boundaries or proper guidelines. These days most hotels and restaurants have replaced tipping with a service charge of around 10%. In some of the restaurants where service charges are not included in your bill a tip of a similar amount is appreciated by the staff. Hotel porters/bell boys expect around INR 100 to carry bags. Local tour guides expect INR 300. Boatmen at Kerala expect to be tipped INR 300. Our recommendation for drivers at the end of your tour is INR 300 per day per person. Similar guidelines can be used when travelling to Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bhutan. It is customary to tip waiters, porters, guides and drivers.

Loyalty Rewarded 5% Off

Many of our clients choose to travel with us time and time again. As a valued client, we offer you a 5% discount off your second and onwards tour package. This offer applies only to the tour cost of your trip and conditions do apply. Speak to us for details when making your booking.

Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our journeys. Speak to us or your travel agent about comprehensive insurance to cover your travel arrangements. This must cover medical expenses in case of an emergency. Note that travel insurance automatically provided with credit cards generally does not provide adequate cover.

What is Not Included?

International airfares, any meals other than those specified, drinks, laundry, mineral water, telephone calls, postage, video/still camera charges at monuments and forts, train or domestic airfares excluding those mentioned in the “includes” column of each tour package, optional tour and excursions, Visa and passport fees, travel insurance of any kind, tipping, extra baggage charges, early check-in or late check-out.

Meals

Being seasoned travellers ourselves we understand the hassle of searching for proper dinning when travelling time is unpredictable. Most of our tour packages include daily breakfast and dinner which are a combination of local and western food, usually served in a buffet style, which enables you to sample the local specialties and cuisines of each region. While you are in India don’t expect to eat much western food. Rather, enjoy the local cuisine of a true blend of spice and not too much chilli.

100% Protected Holiday We are a member of IATA, ATAS, TAANZ and AFTA which ensure that your holiday is 100% protected.

Selecting Your Holiday Type

Most of our journeys are suited to those with normal fitness and mobility levels. To assist you in choosing a journey best for you we have graded our tours: Easy: Walking involved is generally in and around major tourist attractions and bazaars, climbing of stairs, embarking and disembarking from boats. Moderate: These tours are not strenuous but may require walking during sightseeing or soft trekking, climbing of stairs, embarking and disembarking from boats. Adventurous: These refer to programs where your physical fitness needs to be at

highest level. Trekking, cycling, climbing, walking and more adventurous activities may be included.

Local Offices & 24/7 Helpline

complete and return their document with their booking form. We recommend all clients should visit their doctor for these aforementioned purposes and/or to confirm that they are physically able to undertake the day-to-day requirements of the tour. A copy of the booking form can be found at the back of this brochure.

Best Time to Travel

Vaccinations

Apart from a 24/7 helpline number for emergency assistance. Our 36 local network and associate office Managers will be there to assist you in every destination. India and Myanmar offers 4 seasons in a year and the best time to visit India are between September to April when temperature is cooler and enjoyable. May and June is peak summer and days are warmer where else July and August is monsoon season. Sri Lanka is year around destination and has moderate tropical climate. Nepal and Bhutan is ideal between February to May and August to November as temperature plummet during winter season. For more information see temperature chart of the country.

Hotel Grading

Comfort: 3 star hotels offering clean and basic standard facilities. Deluxe: 4 star hotel, boutique Palaces and Heritage properties offering above average to very good facilities. Luxury: 5 star hotel, Palace and Heritage properties offering a full range of facilities and exceptional services. Note: Where destinations do not have more choice of hotels, the best available category of hotel is provided. It is also possible to take a combination of comfort, deluxe and luxury accommodation in one itinerary. Nepal, being an adventure destination, the choices of accommodation are limited for good service we have used 4* & 5* accommodations. In Bhutan basic 3* hotel accommodation is used unless requested. Myanmar Tourism is in its developing stage, hotels are limited the best category of 3*,4* & 5* accommodation is used in the packages.

Transportation

We use all travel modes such as coaches, cars, SUVs, cycle/auto rickshaws, cruises, trains, camels, tongas and planes to make your holiday more enjoyable, enabling you to enrich your authentic travelling experience. By using these various forms of transportation our travellers are able to visit areas that are highly recommended and worth visiting but where access for cars and coaches is impossible. Our car and coach travel is in comfortable air-conditioned vehicles with driver, while all internal flights are based on economy class.

We recommend you consult your doctor for the relevant vaccinations.

Getting There

You can fly into India, Sri Lanka and Nepal by major airlines like Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Cathay Pacific Airways, Emirates, Qantas, Thai Airways and Jet Airways to name a few. Bhutan is accessible via India, Nepal and Thailand by Druk air.

National Parks Varity of national park offering great opportunities to spot wildlife in its natural environment is delightful. As such viewing can not be guaranteed but to increase the chance we use shared Jeep. Recently Govt has put limitation on safari vehicles in the National park hence its advisable to book your holiday as early as possible.

Etiquette in Religious Places Please take extra care when visiting temple, mosque, church or any religious place during tour. Ensure you dress appropriate as we recommend long sleeves top and full length trouser/skirts. For more details please ask us or your local tour manager.

Elephant Ride Elephant back ride included in brochure is subject to availability as its strictly limited and offered on first come first served basis. If its unavailable due to any unforeseen reason jeep ride will be provided to the Amber fort.

TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS Ground Transport All our transportation comes with an experienced driver for your tour. Our Comfort tour packages include the use of a medium vehicle whereas our Deluxe & Luxury tour packages include a large vehicle for additional comfort and space. When passengers are in a group of 4-8, mini coach is used where else above 9 passengers travelling in a group medium or large coaches will be used to accommodate the number of passengers and their luggage. Vehicle type may vary from country to country and place to place though all our vehicles are air-conditioned except in remote Himalayan, Bhutan, Kashmir regions and a few places in Myanmar where air-conditioning is not available or usually necessary. In national parks and sanctuaries open-top vehicles are used.

Medium Vehicle

Large Vehicle

Tata Indigo/Suzuki Dzire Including driver

Toyota Innova

Mini Coach

Mini Van

Tempo Traveller

x 10

Including driver & assistant

Toyota Hiace

Including driver

x 10

Including driver & assistant

Booking Forms

Booking forms must be completed and sent back to TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS along with the deposit within seven days of making your booking. This will ensure TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS has on file all the necessary information such as passport information, travel insurance policy and emergency contact details. Clients who are aged 70 years or more, or with a pre-existing condition that affects their fitness to travel, or any medical dietary requirements, must

Medium Coach

x 20-27

Including driver & assistant

Large Coach

x 35-45 Including driver & assistant

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FAMILYY HOLIDA

Any itinerary in this brochure can be customised for your Family Holiday

When it’s a family holiday, it’s important to get it right A family holiday allows you to steal a moment in time with your children, where dreams and memories can be shaped. If you can dream it we can create it. Experience together a family safari adventure; a camp in the desert or a luxury beachside resort. Captivate, educate, laugh, enjoy and be entertained. Your family travel experience is what memories are made of. At TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS, we understand the element required for a great family holiday therefore every itinerary is tailor-made with children in mind. Accommodation, activities and sightseeing are carefully chosen to ensure every one in the family have a memorable holiday.

Visiting India? There is so much to inspire and excite little ones in this eclectic country. Let dawn reveal the white domes and minarets of the infamous Taj Mahal. For ‘Jungle Book’ lovers, experience a thrilling safari to spot elusive tiger, leopard and sloth bear and spend the night in a tree house. Hop on a train and meet local people – they might be curious, but always kind. Immerse yourself in the traditions of an Indian festival like the majestic Elephant Festival where these giants are celebrated with ornate designs. Visit stunning Rajasthan – wrap up in blankets on an overnight camel ride or let the children play as local kids do, flying kites made from dyed paper. Don’t forget some down time too – perhaps a tropical beach break in Goa to feast on mild coconut curries and exotic fruit. Watch eyes widen and minds expand as India enriches you and your family.

Visiting Sri Lanka? If you’re looking for something a world apart from glossy resorts with kids’ clubs, Sri Lanka could reward you hugely for your efforts. There are plenty of picture-postcard beaches for easy days spent splashing in the shallows, but the cultural side of the island begs to be discovered, including impressive ancient cities, a legacy of the melting cultural pot of Muslim, Tamil and Sinhalese, and some fabulous temples. And animals only previously seen in school textbooks make their home here –the promise of a glimpse of a leopard or elephant should stir even the most recalcitrant of teenagers from their sun lounger.

Visiting Myanmar? Travelling in Burma is a delight with children. Walking through the market will take three times as long as normal as each stall holder comes out to greet you and give the kids fruit, sweets and cakes. The children will love boat rides on Inle Lake, hiking to hill tribe villages, eating freshly barbequed fish and most of all, following small goat tracks through the countryside around Bagan and exploring the crumbling temples. There are also fabulous beaches in the south of the country so you can end your holiday with a few days on a still-completely-unspoilt white sandy beach – always a hit with the kids!

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ADE TAILOR-M ON O HONEYM

INDIA

SRI LANKA

BHUTAN

MYANMAR

A honeymoon is an investment in a lifetime of memories

The perfect couple deserves the picture perfect places for the golden days of their life together-that is the spirit of a Honeymoon. Since every person is different so are their idea of a honeymoon. We offer an extensive range of options to ensure you enjoy every moment while on tour. TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTONS honeymoons are designed by our regional specialists and supported on the ground by our network of the very finest, most reliable and knowledgeable local guides and representatives. Our tour consultants have accumulated unrivalled experience at creating the ultimate escapes, tailored to individual dates, interests, tastes and budget.

From the long list of options for your honeymoon, a few are given below: Delhi: Displays a regal and a rich cultural heritage. Agra: The city of the Taj Mahal where the greatest love story ever told unfolds.

Udaipur: Lake city also referred as the Most Romantic City of India. Jaipur: Known as the Pink City, offers great cultural experiences and shopping.

Wildlife Resorts: are great way to relax and enjoy company of each other while spotting big cats and other wildlife species during your safari. Though there are many options available but in India Bandhavgarh, Ranthambore, Kanha, Kaziranga and in Sri Lanka Minneriya and Yala national park are worth visiting. Private Houseboat: Either cruise through backwater of Kerala or dock at Dal Lake, traditional Kerala & Kashmir houseboat offers lots of private time, wonderful onboard accommodation with fully loaded kitchen and crew.

Beach and Island Resorts: Though there are many options but in India Goa, Marari, Kovalam, Mahabalipuram, Andman and Nicobar Island and in Sri Lanka Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Galle, Kalutara and Trincomalee offer lovely beach accommodation.

Hidden Gems: Possessing long list of history and ruled by many different dynasties there are limitless options which gives an opportunity to experience unique surrounding and rustic part of the country and at the same time offers charming heritage and Palace

Special arrangement can be made on request:

hotel. In India Rawla Narlai, Raas Jodhpur, Chattra Sagar, Udaibilas Palace and Ramathra Fort and in Sri Lanka Vil Uyana, Lighthouse, Tea Trails and Warwick Gardens are some good options to consider.

Hill Resorts: In India Shimla, Mussoorie, Nainital, Mount Abu, Srinagar, Gulmarg, Darjeeling, in Sri Lanka, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya are to name few where else Bhutan as a whole country offers breathtaking beauty and plenty of activities.

Tea Estate: Indian Darjeeling and Assam and Srilankan Ceylon Tea are amongst the most famous tea in the world. Accommodations in these destinations offer peaceful surrounding, magic of tea state while witnessing century old tea gardens spread across acres and acres of land.

Myanmar: A honeymoon to Myanmar offers much more than just beach lounging: take a nostalgic horse and carriage ride, cycle through rural teak villages, and visit ancient Buddhist monasteries and caves filled with golden effigies. The serene Inle Lake offers a peaceful highland escape where you can witness the leg-rowing technique of the local fishermen, and when idyllic beach relaxation is the order of the day, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find long stretches of palm-lined white sand by the dazzling blue Indian Ocean at Ngapali, where you can take time to relax in one anotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s company in this untouched, exotic destination.

Flower decorated car on arrival.

A Romantic Gesture: A special turndown service that includes flower petals on your bed on the first evening of your stay.

A Bubbly Welcome: A bottle of chilled sparking wine elegantly arranged in your room upon arrival to toast your future.

Wake up to Wedded Bliss: Delight in a delivery of fresh flowers and a decadent breakfast in bed on one morning of your choice.

Relaxing Touches: A rose petal bath prepared and drawn with essential oils.

Candlelight Dinner: Deliciously romantic and in the privacy of your suite, service to your exclusively. www.totalholidayoptions.com 9

Hotel, Transfer and Sightseeing Options

Delhi & Mumbai All airport transfers is accompanied by THO Tour Executive and private air-conditioned car with driver:  Delhi: TWIN AU$ 32.00  Mumbai: TWIN AU$ 41.00

Almondz

Delhi

FROM AU$



This great lead-in property with its distinctive architecture is situated near central Delhi and is only 4km away from the railway station.

Jaypee Siddharth

Delhi



Newly upgraded Jaypee Siddharth is a boutique hotel in the heart of Delhi. Its elegant interiors, smart new rooms and all new food and beverage options are an exciting change for regular customers and a delight for first time visitors to this property.

Crowne Plaza

Delhi

Kohinoor Continental

Mumbai



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Inspired by British Colonial architecture of old Bombay, this luxury hotel is located amidst business and recreational centres in Parel. Its old English charm, modern present and warm hospitality fill this hotel with a fabled grandeur.

Old & New Delhi

FROM AU$

72.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes) Property Features: Restaurant, room service, business centre, fitness centre, swimming pool Room Features: Tea/coffee maker, phone, TV, mini bar, hairdryer, work station, internet

94.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes)

The contemporary décor, warmth of reception, spacious lobby and cosy interiors create a ‘home away from home’ ambience in this elegantly designed 137-room hotel.

Mumbai

Property Features: Restaurant, room service, internet, laundry Room Features: Tea/coffee maker, phone, TV, mini bar, in-room safe, work station

FROM AU$



Located close to commercial hub as well as proving easy access to all major tourist places. This 160 room hotel offer variety of accommodation options along with good selection of dining options.

ITC Grand Central

44.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes)

Mumbai City Tour

Property Features: Restaurant, room service, concierge, beauty salon, fitness centre, swimming pool, laundry Room Features: Tea/coffee maker, phone, TV, mini bar, hairdryer, work station, internet

FROM AU$

72.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes) Property Features: Restaurant, room service, concierge, beauty salon, fitness centre, swimming pool, laundry Room Features: Tea/coffee maker, phone, TV, mini bar, hairdryer, work station, internet

FROM AU$

96.00

Agra & Fatehpur Sikri

Experience the influence of many rulers in the city that has been rebuilt more than seven times. Visit Jama Masjid, Rajghat, Qutub Minar, Chandini Chowk and drive through Red Fort, India Gate, Parliament House and the Presidents House.

This fascinating tour takes you to the Gateway of India, Prince of Wales Museum (closed on Mondays), and the Hanging Garden on the slopes of Malabar Hills. Also visit Crawford Market and Mani Bhawan (Mahatma Gandhi’s former residence)

Travel by Shatabdi Express from Delhi to Agra and visit the Taj Mahal, perhaps the greatest monument to love ever built and Agra Fort. Also visit Fatehpur Sikri, the perfectly preserved Moghul City built in 1569 and abandoned after only 15 years. Return to Delhi by train.

Departs: Daily, 9am Duration: Full day

Departs: Daily (except Friday), 6.15am Duration: Full day (18.5 hours) TWIN AU$ .00

TWIN AU$

75.00

TWIN AU$

83.00

Hotel prices featured in the brochure are on low season, per person based on two people sharing a base category room. Please contact us or your agent for any special offer.

10 www.totalholidayoptions.com

181

Hotel, Transfer and Sightseeing Options

Bangalore, Chennai & Hyderabad All airport transfers is accompanied by THO Tour Executive and private air-conditioned car with driver:  Bangalore: TWIN AU$: 40.00  Chennai: TWIN AU$: 34.00  Hyderabad: TWIN AU$: 45.00

The Pride

Bangalore

FROM AU$



This hotel is blend of the traditional hospitality with modern comforts, located in the heart of city and close proximity to tourist palaces make this hotel an ideal place to stay.

Lalit Ashok

Bangalore

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Nestled midst 10 acres of sprawling landscaped and adjacent 18-hole golf course gives this hotel an edge over others. The hotel showcases a contemporary and elegant ambience distinguished by the latest in business technology, modern amenities and impeccable hospitality.

The Raintree

Chennai

Hyderabad



Hyderabad



Built to mark a renaissance in standards of service and style, the 188 exquisitely-furnished guest rooms and suites are the finest in hospitality. To better serve business and leisure travellers this hotel is equipped with state-of-the art business and conference facilities as well as a selection of refined cuisine options.

Bangalore City Tour

Chennai City Tour

The tour takes you around the city starting at Tipu’s Palace. Visit Bull Temple, featuring a magnificent Nandi (bull), 15 feet tall and over 20 feet long. Also visit Lalbagh, Vidhana Soudha, which dominates the northern boundary of Cubbon Park.

This city tour covers Fort St George, Government Museum, Snake Park (closed on Tuesdays), Kapaleeswarar Temple, Valluvar Kottam, and Marina Beach. (Govt. Museum will be closed on Friday so Birla Planetarium will be covered instead on that day.)

Departs: Daily 9.30am Duration: Full day TWIN AU$

94.00

FROM AU$

102.00

86.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes)

This hotel is in an excellent location close to the new city and provides a perfect base for both business and leisure travelers, with easy access to places of interest such as Charminar, Golconda Fort, and the palace.

ITC Kakatiya

Property Features: Restaurant, room service, concierge, fitness centre, laundry Room Features: Tea/coffee maker, phone, TV, mini bar, hairdryer, work station, internet

FROM AU$



This centrally located luxury hotel with wonderful services and amenities allows guests easy access to local attractions, entertainment, culture, history and lifestyle of Chennai.

Aditya Park

69.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes)

87.00

Property Features: Restaurant, room service, concierge, beauty salon, fitness centre, swimming pool, laundry Room Features: Tea/coffee maker, phone, TV, mini bar, hairdryer, work station, internet

FROM AU$

63.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes) Property Features: Restaurants, room service, bar, business centre, fitness centre, laundry Room Features: Tea/coffee maker, phone, TV, mini bar, work station, internet

FROM AU$

102.00

Hyderabad City Tour Visit the Charminar; a rectangular four arched monumental gate, the Mecca Mosque and Salar Jung Museum; one man‘s collection of manuscripts, ancient weapons, costumes and curios. Later drive past the High Court buildings. Departs: Daily 9.30am Duration: Full day TWIN AU$

85.00

Hotel prices featured in the brochure are on low season, per person based on two people sharing a base category room. Please contact us or your agent for any special offer.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 11

Hotel, Transfer and Sightseeing Options

Cochin, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Goa All airport transfers is accompanied by THO Tour Executive and private air-conditioned car with driver:  Cochin: TWIN AU$: 35.00  Kolkata: TWIN AU$: 35.00  Goa: TWIN AU$: 50.00  Ahmedabad: TWIN AU$: 30.00

Casino Hotel

Cochin

The Casino Hotel is a heritage hotel orignially built for clientele of rough sailors coming off the ships in the harbour. A short drive from the central business district and a most preferred spot for leisure options.

The Chrome

Kolkata

Ahmedabad

Country Inns & Suits

Goa

FROM AU$

74.00

FROM AU$

69.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes) Property Features: Restaurant, room service, concierge, fitness centre, laundry Room Features: Tea/coffee maker, phone, TV, mini bar, hairdryer, work station, internet

FROM AU$



Located short walk from Goa's famous beaches and offers relaxing atmosphere with an outdoor pool surrounded by a beautifully landscaped courtyard and an outdoor area.

Alila Diwa

Property Features: Restaurants, room service, bar, business centre, beauty salon, ayurveda centre, fitness centre Room Features: Tea/coffee maker, phone, TV, mini bar, iron & ironing board



Situated in the heart of Ahmedabad, the hotel is in proximity to the railway station and airport, and offers all modern comforts, multiple onsite dining choices, conference facilities and fitness centre.

54.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes)



Located at the heart of the city and offers cool and stylish ambience, delectable cuisines, best of banquet services makes this boutique hotel an ideal place in this range.

Park Plaza

FROM AU$



61.00

FROM AU$



85.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes)

A refreshingly unique resort experience to Gonsua Beach in Majorda, amidst the serene landscape of lush, verdant rice plantations flowing towards the Arabian Sea, relaxation reigns at this resort.

Property Features: Restaurant, room service, concierge, beauty salon, fitness centre, swimming pool, laundry Room Features: Tea/coffee maker, phone, TV, mini bar, hairdryer, work station, internet

Goa Sightseeing Cochin City Tour Enjoy a half day city tour to visit the Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue (closed every Friday and Saturday), Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church and Santa Cruz Church. Departs: Daily 9.30am Duration: Full day

TWIN AU$

75.00

Covering Miramar Beach, located at Panjim, Dona Paula, Mangueshi Temple, Shantadurga Temple, Colva Beach - the longest beach in Goa. Afternoon river cruise along the river Mandovi and at the same time you can take a glimpse of Goa’s varied culture. Lovely traditional song and dance live performances will entertain you on board. Departs: Daily 9.30am Duration: Full day

TWIN AU$

Hotel prices featured in the brochure are on low season, per person based on two people sharing a base category room. Please contact us or your agent for any special offer.

12 www.totalholidayoptions.com

99.00

www.totalholidayoptions.com

MALDIVES

Average Temperature (for guidance only) CITY Delhi Mumbai Chennai Kolkata

Temp. max ºc Min ºc Temp. max ºc Min ºc Temp. max ºc Min ºc Temp. max ºc Min ºc

JAN 21 7 31 16 29 20 26 12

FEB 24 10 32 17 31 21 29 15

MAR 30 15 33 20 33 23 34 20

APR 36 21 33 24 35 26 36 24

MAY 41 27 33 26 38 28 36 26

JUN 40 29 32 26 37 28 34 26

JUL 35 27 30 26 35 26 32 26

AUG 34 26 29 26 35 26 32 26

SEP 34 25 30 26 34 25 32 26

OCT 35 19 32 24 32 24 31 24

NOV 29 12 33 18 29 23 29 18

DEC 23 8 32 13 28 21 27 13

www.totalholidayoptions.com 13

North India Northern India is strategically the most important part of India and has shaped the course of India’s historical and cultural evolution over the last 3500 years. The main four religions are Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism and Jainism. The sacred rivers Ganga, Yamuna and many other important rivers are sourced in northern India. The mighty Himalayas from Himachal Pradesh to Arunachal Pradesh which safeguard the country are also part of northern India. Delhi, the capital of India, has seen battles between many emperors and has been ruled by them from time to time. Some of the

outstanding monuments like Qutub Minar, Jama Mosque and Humayun’s Tomb were built by Mughal Emperors during their regime. Rajasthan, one of the most colourful and vibrant states of India is proudly associated with northern India and is famous for its Forts and Palaces. Rajasthan’s Thar Desert and Cattle Fairs are just as interesting. Uttar Pradesh, the most populated state in the country owns many beautiful monuments like the Taj Mahal, supports its own wildlife sanctuaries and is associated with the river Ganges, whose source comes from Gaumukh in the Himalayas.

Golden Triangle PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Delhi Ends: Delhi Grade: Easy Paced

6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

Day 2: Delhi Mesmerise yourself in a splendid sightseeing tour of New and Old Delhi. Visit Qutub Minar, Jama Masjid, the Gandhi Memorial and the India Gate. Witness the legacy of the past that survives in the many monuments left behind by the regents.

Day 3: Delhi - Jaipur

Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified

698.00

It might not be justifiable to say that Delhi, Agra and Jaipur can in anyway be a showpiece of what India truely is. However this combination of three enchanting destinations beautifully displays the richness of India’s history, heritage and culture in the shortest time possible. On arrival at the airport meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two nights stay in Delhi.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

FROM AU$

Travel to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, founded by warrior-astronomer Maharaja Jai Singh II. Explore the colourful bazaar of this pink city and stay overnight at your hotel.

Day 4: Jaipur Start your full day tour with visit to Amber Fort on the back of a brightly coloured

elephant. On your return drive past old part of city and visit City Palace Museum, Observatory and Hawa Mahal known as Wind Palace and evening free to explore famous local baazar of old Jaipur. Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 5: Jaipur - Agra Today we travel to Agra, en-route visiting the abandoned city of Mughal’s, called Fatehpur Sikri. Enjoy this sightseeing tour with its interesting birth story of Fatehpur Sikri. Free to relax in the evening and stay overnight at hotel.

Day 6: Agra - Delhi Departure Pay a visit to the immortal Taj Mahal and visit Agra Fort before travelling back to Delhi. Tour finish by late afternoon with transfer to international airport to board your onward flight.

Private English speaking guide Entry fee and monument charges

PER PERSON (AU$)

Elephant ride in Jaipur

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

Rickshaw ride in Delhi

16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

$780 / $1287

$1046 / $1716

$1164 / $2046

A bottle of water while travelling

16 Apr 15 – 15 Sep 15

$698 / $1164

$892 / $1489

$925 / $1604

Assistance and transfers

Make this your Family Tour – Child under 5 years old stays free.

All current collectable taxes 14 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Varanasi Ghat

Agra Fort

Elephant Festival, Jaipur

NORTH INDIA

UPDATED e First-timers Travell e Choic

Golden Triangle, Varanasi & Lucknow

11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

1752.00

Offering an inspiring introduction to the Subcontinent, this journey combines Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Varanasi and Lucknow’s cultural and natural wonders. Delving into centuries of history, the tour uncovers ornate temples, magnificent Islamic architecture and marbled palaces. Explore the Old and New Delhi highlights, visit the ultimate symbol of love, the Taj Mahal in Agra, Varanasi which is considered the oldest living city. Experience the spiritual aspect of India’s age-old beliefs and enjoy a unique culinary experience in the metropolis of Nawab known as Lucknow.

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel in Delhi for two nights stay. Day 2: Delhi Enjoy breakfast and a brief introduction of the city before starting a full day tour of old and New Delhi. Visit Qutub Minar, India gate, Gandhi memorial and Chandni Chowk bazaar. PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Delhi Ends: Delhi Grade: Easy Paced

Day 3: Delhi - Varanasi After breakfast we board the morning flight to Varanasi. Later in the afternoon visit a silkweaving village to witness the unique art of weaving silk and shop for souvenirs. In the evening witness a grand prayer ceremony at the Ghats and stay two nights in Varanasi.

Day 4: Varanasi Early morning start with a heritage walk and sunrise boat ride on the river Ganges. Witness the perpetual movement of the pilgrims on the steps, the vivid colours of their clothes against the pale gold water. After breakfast enjoy a city tour and afternoon excursion to Sarnath where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon after his enlightenment.

Day 5: Varanasi - Lucknow

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified Private English speaking tour guide Entry fee and monument charges Sightseeing as specified Rickshaw ride in Delhi Walking food tour in Lucknow Elephant ride in Jaipur Airfare Delhi-Varanasi in economy class

An early morning transfer to the railway station to board train to Lucknow. Lucknow is also known as ’The City of Nawabs’ and is an intriguing blend of old world charm, beautiful architecture, warm hospitality, and rich heritage. In the evening enjoy a walking food tour of Lucknow which allows you to hop-in, hop-out of the world famous traditional roadside eateries. Some of the eateries we visit are Mobeen’s Pasanda, Raheem’s Nihari Gosht, Bismillha’s or Idris’ Biryani, Tundey Kebab and finish with Indian ice ream at Chanakya’s Kulfi, this is your dinner tonight. Stay two nights at Lucknow.

Day 6: Lucknow Enjoy a city sightseeing tour and visit Bada Imambara, a famous monument of Lucknow, Government Museum. In the afternoon visit a chikan workshop that will mesmerise you as you watch skilled workers delicately working in unique styles and stitches on very light cotton cloths. Also take a leisure walk in Hazrat Ganj and Aminabad local bazaar. PER PERSON (AU$)

Train ticket in air-conditioned class

Day 7: Lucknow - Agra Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and explore the, local bazaar on your own until midday. Later transfer to the railway station to board train to Agra, known as the home of the Taj Mahal. The city is still associated with the Mughals who were great builders and you will witness this as you pass the architectural buildings. Stay two nights in Agra.

Day 8: Agra

Early morning watch the sunrise over the Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of love and devotion with its superb craftsmanship of semi-precious stones inlaid into the marble in beautiful patterns, a process known as pietra dura. Later visit the impressive 16th century Agra Fort, Itimadud-daulah also known as baby Taj and visit a marble workshop to witness remaining artesians at work.

Day 9: Agra - Jaipur After breakfast travel to Jaipur. En-route visit abandoned city of Mughals the Fatehpur Sikri. Evening free to explore the markets and stay two nights at Jaipur.

Day 10: Jaipur Start full day sightseeing tour with a visit to Amber Fort riding an elephant from the foothill of the fortresses and the Maharaja’s City Palace, the Observatory and photo stop at the Hawa Mahal as we drive past the old part of the magnificent Pink City.

Day 11: Jaipur - Delhi Departure Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before travelling back to Delhi. Tour finishes with direct transfer to Delhi international airport to board your onward flight home.

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

A bottle of water while travelling

16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

$1791 / $2864

$2239 / $3607

$2682 / $4384

Assistance and transfers

16 Apr 15 – 15 Sep 15

$1752 / $2699

$2044 / $3174

$2392 / $3746

All current collectable taxes

Make this your Family Tour – Child under 5 years old stays free.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 15

Camel Fair, Pushkar

NORTH INDIA

Amber Fort, Jaipur

The Marigold Hotel

Most ed Request

PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Delhi Ends: Udaipur Grade: Easy Paced

12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS

On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two nights stay in Delhi.

Day 2: Delhi

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Enjoy a full-day city tour of Old and New Delhi and visit Red Fort, Raj Ghat, Jama Masjid, India Gate, Rajpath, Qutab Minar and explore Chandni Chowk on the rickshaw ride.

Hotel accommodation with private facilities

Day 3: Delhi - Agra

Private air-conditioned car with driver

Travel to Agra, visit mighty riverside Agra Fort and the iconic Taj Mahal during sunset. Stay overnight at hotel.

Private English speaking guide Entry fee and monument charges Elephant ride in Jaipur Boat ride in Udaipur Rickshaw ride in Delhi A bottle of water while travelling Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

Add-On

Goa 4 days / 3 nights

311.00

16 www.totalholidayoptions.com

1264.00

To coincide with the release of movie, the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS has put together this new and exciting private journey that not only takes in some of the sites of this much-talked about film, but also has you staying at locations where the movie was shot based on the availability of the hotels. The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel is in fact Ravla Khempur and surely providing better services than shown in movie, a charming rural palace hotel situated about an hour to the north of Udaipur. Combining this with more famous sites in Delhi, Agra – including the Taj Mahal – Jaipur and Udaipur will give you a great blend of both the mainstream and the offbeat, in one of India’s most colourful locations.

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

Meals as specified

FROM AU$

Day 4: Agra - Jaipur Depart Agra and visit the magnificent city of Fatehpur Sikri. Later continue to Jaipur where most of the movie was filmed. Stay three nights at hotel.

Day 5: Jaipur This morning you’ll be taken on a walking tour of the bazaars of Old Jaipur to witness craftsman and artisan at work before visiting the Marigold flower market and the Kanota Fort, which was used as the Viceroy Club in the film.

Day 6: Jaipur Today morning visit great palace at Amber and enjoy elephant ride, later continue to City Palace, Observatory and Hawa Mahal. PER PERSON (AU$)

Day 7: Jaipur - Pushkar Travel to the mystical town of Pushkar made famous by its Camel fair. Afternoon free to explore this small but very important pilgrimage site of Hindu faith.

Day 8: Pushkar - Khempur Depart for Khempur and check into The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, AKA Ravla Khempur. And don’t worry although not super luxurious this charming converted palace hotel is a lot more comfortable than the film depicts. Stay two nights at hotel.

Day 9: Khempur After Breakfast enjoy half day Horse Safari and remaining day is free to explore this small rural town.

Day 10: Khempur - Udaipur Travel to Udaipur famous for its lake and known to be the most beautiful city of Rajasthan. Remaining day is free to relax or explore the town.

Day 11: Udaipur Enjoy city tour of Udaipur and visit the City Palace, Saheliyon Ki Bari and Jag Mandir.

Day 12: Udaipur Departure After breakfast tour finish with transfer to Udaipur airport to board the flight for Delhi or Mumbai.

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

$1517 / $2688

$1895 / $3254

$2179 / $3795

16 Apr 15 – 15 Sep 15

$1264 / $2287

$1662 / $2791

$1810 / $3078

Make this your Family Tour – Child under 5 years old stays free.

Red Fort, Delhi

Top Seller

City Palace, Udaipur

Forts & Palaces

PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Delhi Ends: Udaipur Grade: Easy Paced

10 DAYS / 9 NIGHTS

Day 2: Delhi Enjoy a city sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi, visit Qutub Minar, the Lotus Temple and Jama Masjid and travel through the India Gate, Red Fort, Parliament and the President House.

Day 3: Delhi - Agra

Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified Private English speaking tour guide

Travel to Agra, stop on the way at Sikandra Fort to see the famous tomb of Akbar. In the afternoon visit Agra Fort and conclude your day with a sunset visit to the incomparable monument of love, the Taj Mahal. Stay overnight at Agra.

Day 4: Agra - Jaipur

A bottle of water while travelling

Travel to Jaipur, en-route visit Fatehpur Sikri, known as the abandoned city of Mughals, built in 1569 by Emperor Akbar. The afternoon is free to explore the bazaar trails and witness the timeless appeal of its colourful markets and cheerful people. Stay two nights at Jaipur.

Assistance and transfers

Day 5: Jaipur

All current collectable taxes

Witness the wonderful combination of Mughal and Rajput forms of architecture during your sightseeing and enjoy an elephant ride to the Amber Fort. See the City Palace and Jantar Mantar and enjoy a photo stop at Hawa Mahal.

Entry fee and monument charges Boat ride at Udaipur Elephant ride in Jaipur Rickshaw ride in Delhi

FROM AU$

310.00*

PER NIGHT TWIN

Pamper Yourself

Taj Lake Palace – Udaipur Upgrade to the most romantic Palace hotel in the world and experience royalty at this exquisite white marble palace that seems to float majestically on the still waters of Lake Pichola and set amid awe-inspiring fairytale gardens. * For current pricing contact us.

FROM AU$

1289.00

After exploring the sights of Old and New Delhi as well as the spectacular Taj Mahal, journey through the princely state of Rajasthan to take a closer look at the region’s magnificent forts and explore cities that are full of atmosphere and character, set against stunning desert scenery.

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two nights stay in Delhi.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

NORTH INDIA

Day 7: Pushkar - Jojawar After breakfast we travel to a small town of Jojawar and stay in the 18th Century heritage hotel, set amidst the Aravalli hills, this little garrison fort was once a major principality of the Royal house of Marwar. Afternoon free to explore village and stay overnight at heritage hotel.

Day 8: Jojawar - Udaipur Enjoy morning walk in the village and breakfast before travelling to Udaipur. Evening free to walk around the local bazaar and stay two nights at Udaipur.

Day 9: Udaipur Enjoy full day guided city tour and visit City Palace museum which houses a remarkable collection of ancient sculptures and inscriptions of the bygone era, the Jagdish temple for its Indo-Aryan style of architecture, Saheliyon Ki Bari, Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandir and Jag Mandir.

Day 10: Udaipur Departure After a leisurely breakfast the tour finishes with transfer to Udaipur airport where you board flight to Delhi or Mumbai to connect your onwards flight home.

Day 6: Jaipur - Pushkar Today travel to a tiny tranquil town of Pushkar famous for its annual camel fair. Afternoon explore Pushkar Lake and take a walk in the village to witness ambience of peace and spirituality. Stay overnight at Pushkar. PER PERSON (AU$)

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

$1532 / $2617

$1850 / $3155

$2095 / $3610

16 Apr 15 – 15 Sep 15

$1289 / $2127

$1520 / $2498

$1654 / $2737

Make this your Family Tour – Child under 5 years old stays free.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 17

Shimla

NORTH INDIA

Popular Winter y Getawa

Golden Temple, Amritsar

Himalayan Valley

PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Delhi Ends: Delhi Grade: Easy – Moderate

Toy Train, Shimla

11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

1639.00

Originally Himachal Pradesh, the Himalayan region has now been divided into two states; Himachal Pradesh and Uttaranchal Pradesh. Blessed with some of the most spectacular and beautiful landscapes in the world, it is a travellers paradise – lofty snow peaks, deep gorges, lush green valleys, fast flowing rivers, enchanting mountain lakes, flower bedecked meadows, beautiful temples and monasteries steeped in time. Come on board this unforgettable journey and explore the region which offers memories of a life time.

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two nights stay in Delhi.

Day 2: Delhi Visit Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, Gandhi Memorial and the India Gate and enjoy a rickshaw ride in the narrow street of the famous Chandni Chowk bazaar.

Day 3: Delhi - Shimla

Day 7: Manali - Dharamshala Travel to Dharamshala and enjoy another scenic ride through many small villages in the Himachal Valley. Stay two nights at Dharamshala.

Day 8: Dharamshala Explore the home of Noble Laureate the Dalai Lama and enjoy a panoramic view of the tea gardens, beautiful hills, colourful bazaar and colonial lifestyle.

Day 9: Dharamshala - Amritsar

Train ticket in air-conditioned class

Start our day with a train journey till Kalka to board the Himalayan Queen train for an unforgettable journey. Registered in The Guinness Book of World Records as the greatest narrow gauge engineering achievement in India from Kalka to Shimla, this track passes through the breathtaking landscapes of the majestic Himalayas, with 103 tunnels, 969 bridges, 919 curves and more than 20 railway stations in its entire journey. Transfer on arrival and stay two nights at Shimla.

Assistance and transfers

Day 4: Shimla

Day 11: Amritsar - Delhi

All current collectable taxes

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and explore the Mall, the Ridge and the beautiful town covered with pine forests, boasting breathtaking views and a legacy of the British era long gone by.

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private car with driver Meals as specified Private English speaking tour guide Entry fee and monument charges Rickshaw ride in Delhi A bottle of water while travelling

Day 5: Shimla - Manali

138.00* PER NIGHT TWIN

FROM AU$

Pamper Yourself The Imperial Delhi

Enjoy an upgrade to Asia’s finest luxury hotel that offers a unique experience embracing facets of India’s history and known for its contemporary colonial style. Its location is just steps away from the shopping district and major attractions. * For current pricing contact us. 18 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Travel to Manali and enjoy the scenic ride and breathtaking beauty of this hill station. Stay two nights at Manali.

Day 6: Manali Go for an excursion to Rohtang Pass for panoramic views of the mighty Himalayas. PER PERSON (AU$)

Travel to Amritsar, the most sacred shrine and important holy place of the Sikh religion. In the afternoon explore this holy city and visit the famous Golden Temple. Stay two nights at Amritsar.

Day 10: Amritsar Relax in the morning and visit the Jallianwala Bagh which tells the sad story of the mass killing of April 1919, then experience a retreat ceremony at Wagha Border. After breakfast, transfer to the railway station to board the Delhi bound train. On arrival the tour finishes with a direct transfer to Delhi Airport.

What our clients say:

“I just loved everything and toy train ride was awesome. Call from your office during our travel to check how our tour was going exceeded my expectations.” – Margaret & Diane, Australia

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

$1639 / $2885

$2067 / $3449

$2535 / $4537

16 Apr 15 – 15 Sep 15

$1743 / $2891

$2223 / $3832

$2796 / $4827

Make this your Family Tour – Child under 5 years old stays free.

Local bazaar, Delhi

Man Madir Palace, Gwalior

Khajuraho Temple

Splendid India PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Delhi Ends: Delhi

12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS

NORTH INDIA

FROM AU$

1896.00

Discover the mysteries and legends surrounding the dramatic and varied settings of the British capital of Delhi. Visit the fort in Gwalior, palaces in Orchha, the famous intricatelycarved temples of Khajuraho and the spectacular Taj Mahal in Agra, then venture into India’s wild side and spot tigers in scenic Bandhavgarh National Park.

Grade: Easy Paced

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two nights stay in Delhi. Day 2: Delhi Enjoy a full day city sightseeing tour and witness the display of rich cultural heritage that has flourished over the last three thousand years. Visit Qutub Minar, Jama Masjid and the Gandhi Memorial and travel past the India Gate, Red Fort, Parliament and the President House.

Day 3: Delhi - Agra

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified Private English speaking tour guide Entry fee and monument charges Wildlife safari at Bandhavgarh Rickshaw ride in Delhi A bottle of water while travelling Train ticket in air-conditioned class Assistance and transfers

Travel by road to Agra, home of the Taj Mahal and many other architectural wonders. In the afternoon enjoy a walk to the bazaar and explore this world renowned city. Stay two nights at Agra.

Day 4: Agra Start your day with a visit to the symbol of everlasting love, the Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan. After breakfast visit the Agra Fort and Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, also known as a mini Taj Mahal.

Day 5: Agra - Gwalior Continue by road to Gwalior and visit the 15th century Gwalior Fort, referred to by Mughal emperor Babar as the pearl amongst fortresses in India. Stay overnight at Gwalior.

All current collectable taxes

Day 6: Gwalior - Orchha

FROM AU$

348.00*

PER NIGHT TWIN

Pamper Yourself

Oberoi Amarvilas Agra

Upgrade your stay in the most luxurious hotel in Agra and experience glorious sight of the Taj, bathed by the first rays of dawn from your own private bedroom lounge. Allow yourself to be swept away by her romance at dusk. * For current pricing contact us.

Travel to Orchha, once the capital of the Bundelas and now just a village set amidst a complex of well-preserved temples and palaces. In the afternoon take a walk to witness the neatly painted houses and market stalls which contribute to the nostalgic beauty of Orchha. Stay overnight at Orchha.

Day 7: Orchha - Khajuraho Visit Jehangir Mahal, the largest of the palaces; Raj Mahal and Rai Praveen Mahal, dedicated to the 17th century poetessmusician. Experience the interior-rich repositories of Bundela art before travelling to Khajuraho for two nights stay.

Day 8: Khajuraho In the morning visit the world famous erotic temples of Khajuraho, constructed between 950 and 1050 AD. The temples are considered the high point of Indian architectural genius from the medieval period and are a unique gift of love to the world.

Day 9: Bandhavgarh Travel to Bandhavgarh National Park to experience the wildlife. The afternoon is free to relax or explore the surrounding area. Stay two nights at Bandhavgarh. From 1 July - 30 Sep Bandhavgarh will be replaced with Dholpur.

Day 10: Bandhavgarh Enjoy a morning and afternoon wildlife safari. Spot the mysterious Royal Bengal Tigers and many other wildlife species. The chances of seeing a tiger in this national park is much higher than in any other national park in the region.

Day 11: Bandhavgarh - Delhi Your morning is free to relax at the resort. After lunch transfer to board the overnight train to Delhi. Bedding will be provided by the train attendant so you can enjoy your journey in air-conditioned sleeper class.

Day 12: Delhi Departure Arrive at Delhi station in the afternoon where the tour finishes with a direct transfer to the airport.

PER PERSON (AU$)

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

$2050 / $3355

$2284 / $3938

$2792 / $4849

16 Apr 15 – 15 Sep 15

$1896 / $3230

$2162 / $3801

$2497 / $4269

Bandhavgarh will be replaced with Dholpur since park is closed from 1 July to 30 Sep.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 19

Taj Mahal, Agra

NORTH INDIA

Golf Tour of India

Rambagh Palace

11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

3868.00

This Tour not only gives you the privilege of playing golf in some of the oldest and historical golf courses in India, but also covers the must-see-and-do sights. You will visit the monument of love, The Taj Mahal, stay in some of the Grand Palaces, sample mouth watering cuisine and go shopping. in India you can play golf almost anywhere, in the hills and high Himalayas, in metropolitan cities and in small towns, by lakes and forests, or surrounded by tea estates, out in the desert and in old British cantonments… the flavour of India is visible everywhere that golf in the country is played.

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel in Delhi for overnight stay.

Day 2: Delhi Sightseeing Enjoy city sightseeing tour and witness the display of rich cultural heritage that has flourished over the last three thousand years. Visit Qutub Minar, Jama Masjid and travel past the India Gate, Red Fort, Parliament and PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Delhi Ends: Jodhpur Grade: Easy Paced

the President House. Late afternoon transfer to golf resort for two night stay.

Day 3: Golf & Spa Enjoy your leisurely breakfast before enjoying your first golf experience in most talked about India's first 18-hole Golf Course designed by the legendary Greg Norman, Jaypee Greens Golf Course is sprawled over 452 acres of land. This 72 par course is India's longest Golf course, standing at 7347 yards housing 14 shimmering lakes and water bodies along with 88 snow-white bunkers which gives this lush green golf course a whole new meaning. After a round of golf you are free to enjoy spa treatment (not included) at the Six Senses Spa before concluding your day.

Day 4: Delhi - Agra Sightseeing Today travel to Agra by road, enjoy sightseeing tour and visit Agra Fort; this great monument of red sandstone was constructed in the 16th century, ItimadUd-Daulah also known as mini Taj Mahal. Conclude the day with the sunset visit to the famous Taj Mahal, a monument of love. Stay two nights is Agra.

Day 5: Golf

Private English speaking tour guide

After breakfast transfer to Agra Club Golf Course, built in 1904 and upgraded to an 18hole course. This course will surely test your golfing skills as the putting greens are not as smooth, but it will give you the chance to say that you played golf in the City of Taj Mahal. Evening is free to relax at the poolside, with dinner at the hotel.

Entry fee and monument charges

Day 6: Agra - Jaipur

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified

Elephant ride in Jaipur Rickshaw ride in Delhi Rural experience in Jodhpur Entrance fee with Caddy/Cart to the Golf Course in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur

Travel to Jaipur, the city epitomises the spirit of Rajasthan and retaining its character and history. En-route visit Fatehpur Sikri, an outstanding example of Mughal architecture PER PERSON (AU$)

and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Evening free to relax at the hotel. Stay for next three nights at Jaipur.

Day 7: Jaipur Sightseeing Start your city sightseeing tour with excursion to Amber Fort and enjoy a ride on the back of an elegantly painted elephant ‘The Maharaja style’ form the foothill. Later visit City Palace, Jantar Mantar and Hawa Mahal. Afternoon visit the local bazaar for and conclude your day with dinner at hotel.

Day 8: Golf & High Tea After breakfast transfer for a round of golf to Rambagh Golf Club build in 1944 for Former Queen Gayatri Devi of Jaipur. Its is 18 Hole challenging championship course with Par 70 Yardage-6303 (SSS 70). Playing on this course with Nahargarh and Moti Doongri Fort is memorable. On your return enjoy your Hi tea and relax at the hotel.

Day 9: Jaipur - Jodhpur Experience the feeling of travelling back in time with a journey to Jodhpur, a city founded in 1459 A.D. and also referred to as the Blue City of Rajasthan due to its bluepainted houses around the Mehrangarh Fort. Afternoon enjoy city sightseeing and stay for two nights in Jodhpur.

Day 10: Rural Experience Today after breakfast enjoy incredible rural experience by 4x4 vehicles through remote villages with picnic lunch. This will be a chance to meet and witness lifestyle of villagers and tribes.

Day 11: Jodhpur Departure After breakfast tour finish with transfer to airport where you board your flight for your onwards journey.

LUXURY Twin/Single

A bottle of water while travelling Assistance and transfers

16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

$4484 / $7146

All current collectable taxes

16 Apr 15 – 15 Sep 15

$3868 / $5819

Choice of Premium accommodation are available on request 20 www.totalholidayoptions.com

NORTH INDIA

Curry & Culture of India

12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

3138.00

“Indian Cuisine is a reflection of the heritage of its people. It represents its historical developments, religious beliefs, cultural practices and above all, its geographical attributes”. The major culinary influences on Indian cuisine resulted from significant historical invasions, including the Greeks, Mughal Portuguese and British. On this tour, the culinary journey of just five cities will bring to the fore the variety and complexity of the cuisine but more importantly, you will get an in-depth view on the culture of the people that is inseparable from the food they eat. On this culinary journey, discover not just the food of India but the culture behind the food.

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel. Stay three nights in Delhi. Day 2: Delhi After breakfast proceed for a sightseeing tour of Old Delhi. Visit Jama Masjid, Raj Ghat and have a rickshaw ride in Chandani Chowk. Walk through Krari Baoli, one of the largest wholesale spice markets, before your first culinary lunch experience at Karim’s. Evening PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Delhi Ends: Cochin Grade: Easy Paced

welcome dinner at the Great Kebab Factory offering mouth-watering Awadhi cuisine.

Day 3: Delhi

Day 4: Delhi - Agra

Day 9: Mumbai - Cochin

Travel to Agra and visit Agra Fort, built by Mughal Emperor Akbar the Great, followed by a sunset visit to The Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Enjoy live music with dinner at Paatra offering cuisine from Amritsar to Lahore. Stay overnight in Agra.

After breakfast transfer to board flight to Cochin. Afternoon is free to explore this famous and historical town and take a walk in fort Cochin. Evening witness Kathakali dance show at local theatre before enjoying your seafood dinner at The Rice Boat at Vivanta by Taj offering authentic Kettuvallam ambiance as well as delicious Malabar cuisine. Stay two nights in Cochin.

Day 6: Jaipur

01 night on board private houseboat Private air-conditioned car with driver Economy class airfare Jaipur-MumbaiCochin Meals as specify in speciality restaurants Rickshaw ride in Delhi Live entertainment musical show in Delhi Elephant ride in Jaipur Kathakali show in Cochin

Today enjoy sightseeing tour of New Delhi and visit Qutab Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, drive past India Gate and president house before witnessing colourful musical live entertainment show followed by themed dinner at Kingdome of Dreams.

Journey to Jaipur, en-route visiting the old deserted town of Fatehpur Sikri the eerily abandoned capital of the Mughal Empire. Enjoy your lunch at Laxmi Vilas Palace before continuing your travel. Afternoon free to relax. In the evening enjoy village culture with an ethnic dining experience at Chokhi Dhani Village. Stay two nights in Jaipur.

Hotel accommodation with private facilities

Day 8: Mumbai

Start your sightseeing tour with visit to Gateway of India and board the ferry to Elephanta Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the evening enjoy local cuisine at the famous Diva Maharashtracha and if lucky you may see famous Bollywood stars also dining in this restaurant.

Day 5: Agra - Jaipur

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Hyderabad. Stay two nights in Mumbai.

Start your day with a visit to Amber Fort and enjoy an elephant ride to the top of the fortress. Visit Hawa Mahal, often called the Palace of Winds, City Palace and impressive Jantar Mantar. Have natural Heena art work on your hand by a professional artist and conclude your day with Rajasthani Cuisine dinner at Spice Court.

Day 7: Jaipur - Mumbai After leisurely breakfast transfer to board flight to Mumbai. Afternoon free to relax and evening enjoy dinner at Kebabs & Kurries at ITC Grand offering selections of food from the kitchen of Lucknow Nawabs to Nizam of

Day 10: Cochin

Enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city which was an entry point for European, Portuguese, Dutch and the British who ruled here until the 19th century. Visit the Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church and Mattancherry Palace. Evening free to relax and enjoy a multi-cuisine dinner at the hotel.

Day 11: Private Houseboat Transfer to board your private, traditional houseboat at Alleppey. Relax and cruise through a splendid waterway of canals, lakes and coves. As you drift along, observe how life is lived on the water. People sail, fish, swim, wash their laundry and bathe themselves here. Your traditionally cooked meals will be served on board by your private crew. Overnight on board.

Day 12: Cochin Departure Disembark your houseboat after breakfast and finish with direct transfer to the airport.

PER PERSON (AU$)

DELUXE Twin/Single

Twin/Single

A bottle of mineral water while travelling

16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

$3434 / $5514

$4026 / $6546

Assistance and transfers

16 Apr 15 – 15 Sep 15

$3138 / $4959

$3547 / $5571

Elephana excursion & ferry ticket in Mumbai Entrance fee and monument charges

LUXURY

All current collectable taxes

www.totalholidayoptions.com 21

NORTH INDIA

Rickshaw ride

Ayurveda treatment

Wellness Resort

Golden Triangle & Wellness Tour of India

14 DAYS / 13 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

2635.00

This tour is specially designed for those who have limited time but love to visit THE MUST DO of India, the Golden Triangle and rejuvenate your body, mind and soul in wellness resort located far away from the hustle bustle of city in pristine coastal area. Highlights includes Agra to visit ultimate symbol of love the Taj Mahal and Fort, Jaipur the Pink City famous for its colour, culture and Palaces and Delhi the Capital of India where we visit the old and New Delhi to witness living history of the Mughals and the British Raj. Then start the Wellness tour and stay at a resort for the next seven nights to rejuvenate your senses with the goodness of Yoga, Ayurveda therapy and specially prepared meals made with fresh local produce. PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Delhi Ends: Goa Grade: Easy Paced

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel in Delhi for two nights stay.

Day 2: Delhi Enjoy breakfast and a brief introduction of the city before starting full day tour of old and New Delhi. Visit Qutub Minar, India gate, Gandhi memorial and Chandni Chowk bazaar.

Day 3: Delhi - Jaipur Travel to Jaipur the Pink City of India. Afternoon is free to explore the bazaar trails and witness the timeless appeal of its colourful markets and cheerful people. Stay two nights at Jaipur.

Day 4: Jaipur

Meals as specified

Start full day sightseeing tour with a visit to Amber Fort riding an elephant from the foothill of the fortresses and the Maharaja’s City Palace, the Observatory, Hawa Mahal and drive past the old part of Jaipur city.

Private English speaking tour guide

Day 5: Jaipur - Agra

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private car with driver

Entry fee and monument charges Rickshaw ride in Delhi Airfare Delhi-Goa in economy class Elephant ride in Jaipur A bottle of water while travelling At the Wellness Resort: Ayurveda doctor consultation Yoga, meditation and detox session Special meal while at resort Special yoga session with art and music

After breakfast drive towards Jaipur enroute visiting Fatehpur Sikri on the way, an outstanding example of Mughal architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stay two nights in Agra.

Day 6: Agra Morning visit to the immortal Taj Mahal built by Emperor Shahjahan for his queen Mumtaz Mahal. After breakfast continue with the sightseeing tour and visit the impressive 16th century Agra Fort, Itimad ud Daulah also known as ‘Baby Taj' and conclude with visit to a marble inlay workshop and

understand beautiful calligraphy done on the Taj Mahal with precious stones.

Day 7: Agra - Wellness Resort After breakfast travel to Delhi to board flight to Goa and transfer by road to your wellness resort located far away form hustle bustle in a pristine beach and peaceful environment. Rejuvenate and heal your body, mind and soul with the goodness of ancient yoga and Ayurveda Therapy. Stay seven nights at the resort. It’s not a spa or ashram, this resort is poetry in stone, tinted in a passionate colour symbolising the energy of earth, offset by the purity of white.

Day 8-13: Wellness Resort The retreat’s daily programme includes various yoga and meditation sessions, so you can pick and choose what suits you. Alternatively you can spend lazy days on the beach, swimming laps in the pool and bird-watching in the forest. There are daily ayurvedic therapy sessions, ranging from hot oil massages to herbal pummelling. There’s fantastic fresh food, great service and green credentials, including a biomass burner and rainwater harvesting. Enjoy an introduction to Yoga kriyas, asanas, Yoga nidra. Meditations and Pranayama, relaxing Abhyanga Ayurveda massages and special focus yoga sessions using art and music.

Day 14: Goa Departure After breakfast check out from the resort and transfer to Goa domestic airport tour finishes with transfer, where you board flight to Mumbai or Delhi to meet your connected flight back home.

Interactive cooking sessions with chef Massage and therapy Birding and nature walks Weekly farmer market visit Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes 22 www.totalholidayoptions.com

PER PERSON (AU$)

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

$3589 / $5639

$3942 / $6323

$4151 / $6723

16 Apr 15 – 15 Sep 15

$2635 / $4508

$2897 / $5096

$2995 / $5260

Khajuraho Temple

Neemrana Fort

Gems of Northern India

14 DAYS / 13 NIGHTS

NORTH INDIA

FROM AU$

2248.00

In the 14 days tour we travel across the northern states that include Delhi, Varanasi, Khajuraho, Jaipur, Agra and Jodhpur. Enjoy the boat ride at the Ganges and excursion to Sarnath in Varanasi, Elephant ride in Jaipur, temples with excellent carvings in Khajuraho along with the historical monuments and forts in Delhi and Jaipur conclude your holiday in the beautiful place of Neemrana.

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

Day 7: Khajuraho

Starts: Delhi Ends: Delhi

On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two nights stay in Delhi.

Grade: Easy Paced

Day 2: Delhi

Visit the Khajuraho temples, built during the 10th century and famed for their erotic sculptures depicting in exquisite detail the everyday life of people of that era.

PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified

Enjoy a full day city tour of New and Old Delhi. Visit Qutub Minar and Jama Masjid and explore Chandni Chowk in rickshaw. Drive past the mighty Red Fort, India Gate, President’s and Parliament House.

Day 8: Khajuraho - Agra

Day 3: Delhi - Varanasi

Day 9: Agra

Relax and have a leisurely breakfast before being transferred to board the overnight train to Varanasi. Bedding will be provided by the train attendant while you enjoy your train ride through rural India, in airconditioned sleeper class. Overnight on board.

An early morning visit to the famous Taj Mahal, known as the most perfect marble built monument in the world. Later, visit the Agra Fort. The afternoon is free for you to relax or explore this world renowned town.

Day 4: Varanasi

Elephant ride at Jaipur

Arrive Varanasi in the morning. Afternoon walk in the old town, visiting hidden shrines and experiencing the busy life along the river. A boat ride along the Ganges ends with the evening river blessing ceremony (Aarti), a ritual going back to the Vedic Age. Stay two nights in Varanasi.

Rickshaw ride in Delhi

Day 5: Varanasi

Boat ride in Varanasi

Take an early morning boat ride and witness the people with Hindu faith taking a dip in the holy water of the River Ganges to ritually cleanse their sins. Later, enjoy an excursion to Sarnath where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon and experience a grand prayer ceremony in the evening.

Private English speaking tour guide Entry fee and monument charges Train ticket in air-conditioned sleeper class Airfare Varanasi – Khajuraho economy class

Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

Day 6: Varanasi - Khajuraho

148.00* PER NIGHT TWIN

FROM AU$

Pamper Yourself

Nadesar Palace Varanasi The Palace has hosted royalty, statesmen and celebrities since 1835. Offering only 10 luxurious suites embellished with original pieces of furniture refurbished to recreate the atmosphere of a bygone era. * For current pricing contact us.

Transfer to the airport and board flight to Khajuraho. Later take a stroll in the narrow streets of this small village and witness the lifestyle of the locals. Stay two nights at Khajuraho.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before travelling to Jhansi station and enjoy a short train journey to Agra. On arrival transfer to the hotel for two nights stay.

Day 10: Agra - Jaipur Travel by road to Jaipur. En-route visit Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted capital of Emperor Akbar, built in the 16th century. In the afternoon explore the colourful bazaar trail of the Pink City and stay two nights.

Day 11: Jaipur Ride on an elephant while visiting Amber Fort and then visit Jantar Mantar, the best preserved 18th century Observatory. Also visit the City Palace which is still home to a royal family and make a photo stop at Hawa Mahal.

Day 12 & 13: Jaipur - Neemrana Enjoy your leisurely breakfast then travel to Neemrana. Be amazed by the scenery of rural Rajasthan and stay two nights at the former fort, built in 1464 AD and now a luxury hotel named Neemrana Fort & Palace.

Day 14: Neemrana - Delhi Airport After a relaxed breakfast, travel back to Delhi. Your tour will finish by late afternoon with a direct transfer to Delhi airport.

PER PERSON (AU$)

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

$2335 / $3905

$2914 / $5027

$3330 / $5661

16 Apr 15 – 15 Sep 15

$2248 / $3741

$2767 / $4734

$2995 / $5088

Make this your Family Tour – Child under 5 years old stays free.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 23

Pushkar

Dilli Haat, Delhi

NORTH INDIA

Mumbai

UPDATED

Rajasthan Heritage PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Mumbai Ends: Delhi Grade: Easy Paced

13 DAYS / 12 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

2082.00

Mumbai is the centre of the Bollywood film industry and Rajasthan is one of India’s prime tourist destinations. Nobody leaves here without priceless memories, a bundle of souvenirs and an address book full of friends. This diverse state is the home of the Rajputs, a group of warrior clans who controlled this part of India for a thousand years, adhering to a code of chivalry and honour similar to that of the medieval European Knights.

Day 1: Arrive Mumbai On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two nights stay in Mumbai. Day 2: Mumbai A full day city sightseeing tour of Mumbai, visiting the Prince of Wales Museum, Gateway of India, Hanging Garden and Dhobhi Ghat with a walk along the bustling Chowpatty beach.

Day 3: Mumbai - Udaipur Board a flight to Udaipur, a city once known as Mewar and now the most romantic city of Rajasthan. In the afternoon explore the bank of Lake Pichola and the numerous shops that dot the narrow winding streets.

Day 8: Bijaipur - Kota/Bundi After breakfast travel to Kota known as industrial heartland of Rajasthan. Afternoon visit City Palace & Jagmandir Palace and stay two nights in hotel.

Day 9: Bundi Excursion Enjoy short excursion to Bundi and visit Diwan-e-aam, Hathia Pol, Naubat Khana, Phool Sagar Palace, Sukh Mahal and Shikar Bur. Also visit Taragarh Fort before returning back to yoru hotel.

Day 10: Kota - Jaipur Travel to Jaipur, en-route stop at Bundi, a hidden splendour set in a narrow inclining gorge and view an enchanting fresco frozen in stone through the ages. Stay two nights.

Day 4: Udaipur

Day 11: Jaipur

Meals as specified

Visit The City Palace, the intricately carved Jagdish Temple and a garden specially created for maids of the queen known as Saheliyon-Ki-Bari. Conclude your day with a sunset boat ride at Lake Pichola.

Private English speaking tour guide

Day 5: Udaipur

Enjoy a full day city sightseeing tour and climb up to the majestic Amber Fort on the back of a painted elephant. Visit City Palace which houses amazing antiques and the Observatory, then take a photo stop at Hawa Mahal.

Entry fee and monument charges

Today take an excursion to Eklingji and Nagda the ancient capital of Bappa Rawal, visit 10th century famous temple Chiselled out of sandstone and marble.

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver

Elephant ride in Jaipur Boat ride at Lake Pichola Economy class airfare Mumbai – Udaipur Assistance and transfers

Day 6: Udaipur - Castle Bijaipur Travel to Bijaipur and enjoy your stay at 16th century Castle Bijaipur. Afternoon enjoy the Horse Safari around the village providing the opportunity to see the locals in their routine village life. Stay two nights in Bijaipur.

All current collectable taxes

Day 7: Castle Bijaipur

FROM AU$

170.00*

PER NIGHT TWIN

Pamper Yourself

Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Treat yourself with an upgrade in one of the best hotels, Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai, built in 1903. Enjoy a royal experience with panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the Gateway of India. * For current pricing contact us.

24 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Morning enjoy excursion to 7th century old Chittorgarh Fort, which stands 180 metres high with each stone narrating its own story. The fort offers and insight into the life of Great Rajput rulers.

Day 12: Jaipur - Agra Travel by road to Agra, en-route visit Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted city of Mughals and witness one of the finest examples of Mughal architectural splendour. Stay overnight at Agra.

Day 13: Agra - Delhi Start your day with visit to the monument of love, the Taj Mahal follwed by the Agra Fort before travelling back to Delhi. Tour will finish by late afternoon with a direct transfer to Delhi airport.

PER PERSON (AU$)

COMFORT

DELUXE

Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

$2146 / $3450

$2614 / $4401

$3064 / $5045

16 Apr 15 – 15 Sep 15

$2082 / $3305

$2342 / $3887

$2662 / $4366

Make this your Family Tour – Child under 5 years old stays free.

LUXURY

Palace Hotel, Bikaner

Mewari horse

Most Popular

Periyar National Park

Mahabalipuram

Scenic South

16 DAYS / 15 NIGHTS

SOUTH INDIA

FROM AU$

2599.00

Experience the culture as we cross two States (Kerala and Tamil Nadu), each with distinctive cultural traditions, exquisite architectural jewels, rich, delicately scented cuisine and an endlessly varied spiced feast for the senses.

Day 1: Arrive Chennai On arrival at the airport meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two nights stay in Chennai.

Day 2: Chennai

thousand temples and famous for its silk weavers, who settled around 400 years ago. Stay two nights at Mahabalipuram.

Day 4: Mahabalipuram

Visit Kalakshetra; a school that teaches local art, music, weaving and design, St. Mary’s Church, Sri Parthasarathy Temple and San Thomas Cathedral Basilica, which was rebuilt in 1606.

Go on a sightseeing tour and visit marvellous monuments with sculptural panels, caves, monolithic rathas (chariots) and temples built during the Pallava Dynasty. In the evening enjoy a walk and witness life of locals living in the town.

Day 3: Mahabalipuram

Day 5: Pondicherry

Drive to Mahabalipuram, en-route visit 2nd century Kanchipuram, a city with a

Travel by road to Pondicherry and enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city ruled by the French before independence. Stay overnight at Pondicherry.

PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Chennai Ends: Cochin Grade: Easy Paced

Day 6: Thanjavur Drive to Thanjavur, en-route visit Chidambaram for its dancing Shiva Natraja sculptures, illustrating 108 forms of dance. Also visit Gangaikonda Cholapuram for its rich and intricately carved temples from the Chola Dynasty. Stay two nights at Tanjavur. Day 7: Thanjavur

We proceed for a sightseeing tour of the city also known as the “Rice Bowl”, famous for the ancient handicraft making of bronze icons. Visit intricately carved temples dating back to the 10th century and shop for souvenirs.

Day 8: Thanjavur - Trichy WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified Local English speaking tour guide Entry fee and monument charges Private backwater cruise Kathakali dance show Boat ride in Cochin Spice plantation visit Wildlife safari in Periyar A bottle of water while travelling Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

Enjoy a short drive to Trichy, claimed to be one of the oldest towns established, several centuries before the birth of Christ. Visit Rock Fort and ancient temples and walk around to witness the culture left behind by many rulers. Stay overnight at Trichy.

Day 9: Trichy - Madurai Travel to Madurai and relax at the hotel or explore the town, famous for silk weaving. Stay two nights at Madurai. PER PERSON (AU$)

Day 10: Madurai Visit the magnificent Meenakshi Temple and experience the stunning architecture. The sculpted pillars tell the story of the beautiful princess of Madurai and her marriage to Lord Shiva.

Day 11: Madurai - Thekkady After breakfast travel to Thekkady and visit the spice plantation growing cardamom, pepper, coffee, and tea. Walk amidst the palette displaying variant shades of green, neatly arranged into terrace farms. Later stop at the local market and purchase some fresh spices as souvenirs. Stay two nights at Thekkady.

Day 12: Wildlife Safari This morning we enjoy a wildlife safari at the Periyar National Park. Later in the day optionally enjoy an elephant ride in the coffee plantation.

Day 13: Backwater Cruise Drive to Alleppey and embark on your private houseboat. Cruise through the narrow canals and backwaters of Kerala and experience panoramic sights one can never forget. All meals and overnight on board.

Day 14: Kumarakom - Cochin Disembark after breakfast and travel to Cochin, set on a cluster of peninsulas and islands in the Indian Ocean. Evening enjoy Kathakali Dance show. Stay two nights at Cochin.

Day 15: Cochin Enjoy a sightseeing tour and a boat ride across the waterway to discover the remains of Fort Cochin and conclude your evening with a Kathakali dance show at the theatre.

Day 16: Cochin Departure After a leisurely breakfast, the tour finishes with transfer to the airport around midday.

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

$2638 / $4757

$3334 / $6089

$4111 / $7394

16 Apr 15 – 15 Sep 15

$2599 / $4658

$2998 / $5414

$3710 / $6572

Make this your Family Tour – Child under 5 years old stays free.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 29

T GUJARA

Amber Fort, Jaipur

Tribal people

Leela Palace, Udaipur

Gujarat & Rajasthan

16 DAYS / 15 NIGHTS FROM AU$

3480.00

Rajasthan and Gujarat are regarded as the two most fascinating and colorful states of India. The rich and colorful customs and traditions of these two states never fail to enchant its visitors. Rajasthan & Gujarat Exclusive Tour package is specially designed for tourists interested in experiencing the rich cultural heritage of western India. This dream tour provides a rewarding experience to tourists taking them into the lands of fairy tale hues.

Day 1: Arrive Ahmedabad

Day 3: Bajana

Day 10: Ahmedabad - Udaipur

Meet and assistance on arrival at the airport by your Tour Executive and transfer to the hotel for overnight stay at Ahmedabad.

Enjoy a jeep safari to follow endangered wild ass found only in Gujarat as they race across the flat land. Spot the distinctive species of wild animals, birds and reptiles found only in this region.

Leave Gujarat and enter Rajasthan through Udaipur to witness a contrast of culture. Evening at leisure with two nights at Udaipur.

Day 2: Ahmedabad - Bajana After breakfast travel to Bajana en-route visit Modhera sun temple, Rani-Ki-Vav at Patan. Evening explore local bazaar and witness the blended culture of Saurashtra and Kutch. Stay two nights at hotel.

Day 4: Bajana - Bhuj

Departs daily

Travel to Bhuj in the heart of the salt flats, quiet correctly said to have the best handicraft of the region. Visit old walled city, Palace and Chhatri to see fine specimen of Kachchhi architecture. Stay overnight at Bhuj.

Starts: Ahmedabad Ends: Delhi

Day 5: Bhuj - Mandvi

PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR

Grade: Easy Paced

Today travel to Mandvi, a coastal town located on the Arabian Sea. En-route visit a Rabari tribal village to witness unique life of the tribes. Stay two nights at Mandvi.

Day 6: Mandvi

Enjoy leisurely breakfast; explore the beach and local bazaar famous for its Bandhani fabric.

Day 7: Mandvi - Morbi After an early breakfast, travel to Morbi. Visit Mani Mandir, Suspension Bridge and Art Deco Palace. Stay overnight at Morbi.

Day 8: Morbi - Vilavadar

Meals as specified

After breakfast, travel to Vilavadar. In the afternoon visit the Vilavadar National Park famous for blackbucks amongst other migratory birds. Evening free to explore and stay overnight at Vilavadar.

Local English speaking tour guide

Day 9: Vilavadar - Ahmedabad

Entry fee and monument charges

After breakfast we travel to Ahmedabad, en-route stop in Utelia founded by the chieftain of the Vaghela Rajput clan, in the 18th century and also at Lothal to visit the museum and the archaeological place giving you an opportunity to see a city planned during the Indus Valley Civilization. Rest of the evening free for last moment shopping and stay overnight at Ahmedabad.

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver

Jeep safari in Kutch Boat ride in Udaipur Elephant ride at Amber Fort A bottle of water while travelling Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

Day 11: Udaipur Proceed for city sightseeing tour and visit City Palace museum, Saheliyon ki baari, Jag Mandir and explore numerous shops that dot the narrow windings streets of Udaipur for souvenir.

Day 12: Udaipur - Jojawar Travel to Jojawar, a small town set amidst the Aravalli hills to explore and experience village life. Stay in 18th century heritage hotel Rawla Jojawar.

Day 13: Jojawar - Jaipur Today head to Jaipur, a famous pink city. Afternoon explore the colourful bazaar of this world famous city and stay two nights in Jaipur.

Day 14: Jaipur Start your sightseeing with visit to Amber fort and climbing on the back of an elephant. Continue visit to Jantar Mantar, city palace and photo stop at Hawa Mahal.

Day 15: Jaipur - Agra Journey to Agra, en-route visit Fatehpur Sikri an outstanding example of Mughal architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 16: Agra - Delhi Departure Pay a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal built by the 5th Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan in the year 1631 in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. After breakfast visit to Agra fort, marble factory and travel back to Delhi. Tour finishes with direct transfer to international airport. PER PERSON (AU$)

DELUXE Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 15 Sep 15 $3480 / $6093 *In some destinations luxury options are available.

30 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Gateway of India, Mumbai

Unique tion Destina

Asiatic Lion, Gir National Park

Highlights of Gujarat

Tribal people

11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

GUJARAT

FROM AU$

2997.00

Gujarat is located in the western part of India and is very popular for its age-old forts and palaces, its beaches and also its lip smacking cuisine. Besides the aforesaid, the state is also a hot favorite amongst tourists for its distinct flora and fauna collection, easily seen in abundance across its numerous wildlife sanctuaries. Through the 11 days Highlights of Gujarat tour, we wish to offer to you the very best of the place including its heritage and its culture.

Day 1: Arrive Mumbai On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you with transfer to the hotel. Stay two nights in Mumbai. PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Mumbai Ends: Ahmedabad Grade: Easy to Moderate

Day 2: Mumbai Start your day with sightseeing tour of this Bollywood city with excursion to visit 600AD old rock cut Elephanta caves, Prince of Wales museum (closed on Monday), Gateway of India, drive through Marine Drive, Hanging Garden and Dhobi Ghat.

Day 3: Mumbai - Gondal Transfer to board morning flight to Rajkot and transfer by road to Gondal, known for its beadwork, silver jewellery and brassware. Afternoon visit cottage weaver’s community and famous Naulakha Palace housing princely collections of Royal era.

Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified Local English speaking tour guide Entry fee and monument charges Economy class airfare Mumbai - Rajkot Wildlife safari in Gir National Park Vilavadar Black Buck Sanctuary A bottle of water while travelling Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

Enjoy an excursion to Palitana where you will require physical fitness to climb stone steps leading to the top of the hill to see enormous compound of approximately 863 fascinating Jain temples built over 900 years.

Day 8: Bhavnagar - Vilavadar Journey to Vilavadar and in the afternoon visit National Park, famous for blackbucks amongst other migratory birds. Evening free to explore this small town and stay overnight at hotel.

Day 9: Vilavadar - Ahmedabad

Travel to Gir National Park, famous worldover for being the only haven of the majestic Asiatic Lion. En-route stops at Junagadh to visit Uparkot Fort, a magnificent Gothic palace and beautiful tomb built by the Nawabs. Stay two nights at Gir National Park.

Day 5: Gir National Park

Day 10: Ahmedabad

Day 4: Gondal - Gir

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Day 7: Palitana Excursion

In the morning enjoy a wildlife safari to spot vast numbers of wild animals, birds, reptiles, endangered Asiatic Lions and the thriving leopard population.

Day 6: Gir - Bhavnagar Today travel to Bhavnagar, a coastal city and former princely state Sihor founded by Bhavsinhji Gohil in 1723 AD. Afternoon enjoy a city tour and visit Gandhi Smriti, a complex attached to a clock tower, situated in the heart of the city; Takhteshwar Temple, Barton Library and Museum displaying Old books, manuscripts, rare coins, arms and armour belonging to the rulers of Bhavnagar. Stay two nights at Bhavnagar.

Visit the Calico Museum, famous for its rich collection of textiles, Sabarmati Ashram started by Mahatma Gandhi in 1915, Hridaya Kunj, a 15th-century Adalaj step-well and Dada Hari Wav. Evening free to explore local bazaar for handicraft or textiles.

Day 11: Ahmedabad Departure After a leisurely breakfast the tour finishes with a transfer to the Ahmedabad International Airport. PER PERSON (AU$)

DELUXE Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 -–15 Jun 15 $2997 / $5049 *In some destinations luxury options are available.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 31

Unique Experience With the emphasis shifting more on unexplored and offbeat destinations and unique experience-based itineraries, we have put together some of the popular collection. These small itineraries of India and Sri Lanka are a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds and

Private Backwater Cruise – Kerala

tastes. Its captivating cultures, flavourful food, unique landscape, charming people, enchanting music and diverse wildlife can provide a journey to suit the tastes of even the most discerning traveller.

Treasure of Kolkata & Orissa

9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

2124.00

This unusual but fascinating tour offers a glimpse of a part of India that is often neglected by visitors. East India combined covers a vast and uneven terrain along the Indo-China border. Sloping down from the lower heights of the Himalayan peaks, this area is dotted with dense forests and blessed with differing climate zones, making this region an eco-tourism paradise, with lush flora and fauna. This short tour covers two states of East India; West Bengal to witness its glorious past and present unique culture; and Orissa, a large, verdant state clinging to the coast of the Bay of Bengal with tribal villages, sandy beaches, extraordinary temples and mighty monuments.

Day 1: Arrive Kolkata

Day 2: Kolkata

On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you with transfer to the hotel in Kolkata for two night stay.

After a short tour briefing proceed for sightseeing tour of this multicultural historical city. Visit Victoria memorial, Town Hall, St. John's Church, one of Asia’s largest flower market, Kumar Tuli and conclude your day with walking through Chowringhee lane to witness colonial style of cafe.

PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Kolkata Ends: Bhubaneswar Grade: Easy Paced

Day 3: Kolkata - Bhubaneswar An early morning transfer to board express train to Bhubaneswar, the lively capital of Orissa. The ancient 'Kalinga' empire boasts settlements stretching back 2000 years. Transfer on arrival and remaining afternoon free to explore and stay two nights at hotel.

Day 4: Bhubaneswar

world heritage site. En- rout visit Stone Carvers village at Chhaitana and evening explore town by rickshaw and walk.

Day 7: Chilika & Gopalpur Travel to Gopalpur, en-route stop at Chilika Asia's largest brackish water lagoon with water spread ranging from 1165 sq km in the rainy season to 906 sq km in the dry season is nestled in the heart of the coastal Odisha (Orissa) and home to thousands of migratory bird including Siberian Crane, grey legged geese, flamingos, purple moorhens, jacana and herons to name few. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake before continuing your journey to Gopalpur famous for its virgin beaches. Rest of the evening is free to explore beautiful beaches and stay two nights at hotel.

Private air-conditioned car with driver

Enjoy a city sightseeing tour of this ancient city and visit Lingaraja, Parasurameswara, Mukteshwar, Rajarani temples which are one of the best examples of Orissa architecture from 7th to 10th century and Dhauli Giri where king Ashoka renounced violence and embraced Buddhism. Afternoon enjoy an excursion to the remarkable sites of Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves historically known as an ancient seats of Jainism.

Enjoy an excursion to Chandragiri blessed with nature and home for Tibetian settlers. Also visit Saora tribal village to experience new world tucked in to natural forest. Later visit Taptapani famous for hot sulphur springs believed to have medicinal value and return back to Gopalpur in the evening.

Meals as specified

Day 5: Bhubaneswar - Puri

Day 9: Bhubaneswar Departure

Local English speaking guide

After breakfast tour finish with transfer to Bhubaneswar airport where you can fly to Kolkata, Bangalore, Mumbai, Hyderabad to board your international connected flight.

A bottle of water while travelling

Today we cover very historical villages and towns till the coastal settlement of ancient town of Puri. En-route visits the Bell Metal Workers’ village, than stopping at Appliqué-work village at Pipli, Brahmin village at Birpratappur and Artisans’ village at Raghurajpur declared as UNESCO World Heritage village. Stay two nights at hotel.

Assistance and transfers

Day 6: Konark Excursion

All current collectable taxes

Morning excursion to Konark, a UNESCO

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities

Entry fee and monument charges Train ticket in air-conditioned class Boat ride at Chilka Lake Rickshaw ride in Puri

32 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Day 8: Chandragiri & Taptapani Excursion

PER PERSON (AU$)

DELUXE Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Sep 15

$2124 / $3574

*In some destinations luxury options are available.

Unique Experience

The Big "5" & Tiger (Wildlife Tour) ELEPHANT, RHINOS, WILD BUFFALO, LEOPARD, ASIATIC LION AND TIGER

11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

4220.00

When it comes to wildlife people think of Africa and often forget that India has some of the most Bio-diverse regions of the world and hosts three of the world’s 34 biodiversity hotspots. According to one study, India along with 17 mega diverse countries is home to about 60-70% of the world's biodiversity. This tour is focused on well known big five; Asiatic Lion, Asiatic Elephant, endangered one horned Rhino, Wild Buffalo, Leopards and Royal Bengal Tiger which in particular known amongst wildlife lover. The tour combine incredible scenery and remarkable cultures but they give attention to mainly the wildlife and designed to ensure you splurge the utmost length of time within the best national reserves being escorted by the best naturalist guides. Travel to a luxuriant humid jungle and watch the Tigers, Elephants, Rhinos, Birds and many more in the wilderness. Hear the sound of a Panther snarling in the jungle, feel the earth rumble as a Rhino charges past and marvel at the graceful sight of Cranes and Flamingos in flight around their nesting grounds in the wildlife sanctuaries in India.

Day 1: Arrive Mumbai

Day 2: Mumbai - Gir

On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you with transfer to the hotel in Mumbai for overnight stay.

After breakfast transfer to board flight to Rajkot followed by drive to Gir National Park located in small town of Sasangir, the only home of Asiatic Lions. Remaining evening free to relax and stay three nights at resort.

PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Mumbai Ends: Guwahati Grade: Easy Paced

Day 3: Asiatic Lion Enjoy morning and afternoon Jeep safari at Gir National park to see beautiful Asiatic lions and other wildlife species living in this national park. Two safaris in a day will give us ample time to spot lions and evening to explore this small village town for its unique culture and welcoming people.

Day 4: Asiatic Lion Another day of morning and afternoon Jeep safari at Gir National park giving more chance to see Asiatic lions up close with evening free to explore village.

Day 5: Sasangir Pench National Park

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified 04 jeep safaris with naturalist at Gir 03 jeep safaris with naturalist at Pench 02 jeep safaris with naturalist at Kaziranga 01 elephant back safari at Kaziranga

After breakfast transfer to Rajkot airport to board flight to Nagpur and on arrival transfer to Pench national park. Though there are many species of wild animal, reptile and birds, the key predator in Pench are Royal Bengal tiger followed by leopard, wild dog and wolf. If lucky you also can spot sloth bears, Chousingha, Chinkara, barking deer, jackal, fox, palm civet, small Indian civet, jungle cat, hyena and porcupine to name few. Stay two nights at Pench.

Day 6: Tiger & Leopard

Economy class airfare Mumbai-RajkotNagpur-Kolkata-Guwahati

Morning and afternoon safari will allow you more chances to spot these shy animals in there natural habitats and evening free to explore surrounding villages.

Entry fee and monument charges

Day 7: Pench - Kolkata

Assistance and transfers

Enjoy another early morning Jeep safari before your breakfast and transfer to Nagpur

A bottle of water while travelling

All current collectable taxes

airport to board evening flight to Kolkata. On arrival transfer to hotel for an overnight stay in Kolkata.

Day 8: Kolkata - Kaziranga After an early morning breakfast transfer to airport to board flight to Guwahati, on arrival transfer to Kaziranga. Kaziranga National Park is famous specifically for endangered “one horned Rhinos”. Other species of animals found here are hog deer, swamp deer, wild buffalo, elephants and the Royal Bengal Tiger. It is also home to pelicans, storks and darters. Evening free to relax or explore surrounding areas and stay three nights at Kaziranga.

Day 9: Rhino & Buffalo Early morning jeep safari into the national park and afternoon safari on the back of an elephant to the different region of the park mainly to spot One Horned Rhino and many other wildlife, reptiles and birds. Evening free to relax or go for a walk.

Day 10: Rhino & Gibbons Geographical location of Kaziranga National park makes it an ideal home for various wildlife species. Early morning travel to a nearby region where we will have a chance to see the gibbons. Afternoon enjoy a game drive into the national park and have another chance to spot the one horned Rhino.

Day 11: Guwahati Departure After breakfast tour finishes with transfer to Guwahati airport where you board flight to Kolkata or Delhi to be connected with your onwards flight. PER PERSON (AU$)

DELUXE Twin/Single

15 Oct 14 – 30 June 15 $4220 / $6998 *Luxury options are available on request.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 33

Unique Experience

Tajul Masjid, Bhopal

Flower market

Palace Trail of Central India DISCOVER THE WELL-KEPT SECRETS OF INDIA IN THIS TOUR

Jahaz Mahal, Mandu

9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

2570.00

Steeped in heritage, history and culture, this is a popular tour to India to step back in time and adventure through the historical heart of India. Here your journey will zigzag across a vast Indian region which has witnessed all the major influences that have borne fruit in India’s diverse culture possessing great unspoilt tracts, one of India’s best cultural triangle, the largest concentration of India’s tribal people. Rock paintings at Bhimbetka can be dated back to Stone Age and approximately 30,000 years. Bhopal is famous for its lakes and Sanchi for its UNESCO world heritage site known to preserve stupas from 3rd century BC, Ujjain for famous Jain temples, Dhar and Amla for its grand palace, Maheshwara for its temple and Indore for metropolitan culture. Yet for all that, it remains off the beaten track. All the more reason we think you’ll agree to explore it as you stay in some of the finest Heritage & Palace hotels of the region.

Day 1: Arrive Bhopal On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you with transfer to the hotel in Bhopal for three nights stay.

Day 2: Sanchi Excursion Proceed for half day excursion to UNESCO heritage site Sanchi known for its stupas, monasteries, temples and pillars dating back PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Bhopal Ends: Indore Grade: Easy Paced

from the 3rd Century BC to 12th Century AD. It is the oldest Buddhist sanctuary in existence and was a major Buddhist centre in India until the 12th century AD. Afternoon return back to the city and visit Moti Masjid known to be second largest mosque in India, Lakshmi Narayan Temple and Tribal museum.

records of cultural, historical and national importance. After breakfast visit 12th Century Fort known to be built by Mohammad Bin Tughluk with addition of ramparts and gateways till 18th century. Later visit Tomb of warrior saint Shaykh Changal, Lal Masjid, Bhojshala and Kamal Maula Mosque.

Day 3: Bhimbhetka & Bhojpur

Day 7: Mandu & Maheswar

Enjoy full day excursion tour to UNESCO world heritage site of Rock Shelters of Bhimbhetka the site of south Asia's richest collection of prehistoric cave paintings and uncompleted 11th century old Bhojeshwar temple.

Today enjoy an excursion to beautiful ancient city of Mandu, once known as the `City of Joy', and noted for its fine Hindu and Muslim architecture. Visit Jahaz Mahal; situated between two lakes looks like a ship floating in the water, Hindola Mahal and Baz Bahadur’s Palace before continuing your journey to Maheshwar to visit the Maheshwari textile weaver’s village and enjoy boat ride at River Narmada and return back to Dhar.

Day 4: Bhopal - Fort Amla Today travel east of Bhopal to Fort Amla, en-route visiting temples of Ujjain. Temple of Ujjain is situated on the banks of the river Shipra and regarded since times immemorial as sacred. Arrive Fort Amla by afternoon and stay at this heritage hotel. Though it’s not a grand luxury hotel but an architectural delight to behold with bold sweeping arches and long open terraces. The stillness of the life, its charming simplicity is a contrasting reflection on the present day world. Stay overnight at Fort Amla. WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified Local English speaking guide Sightseeing as specified Entry fee and monument charges A bottle of water while travelling Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes 34 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Day 5: Fort Amla - Dhar After breakfast explore on your own the village surrounding to witness real innocent village people in there simple lifestyle. Afternoon travel to Dhar and stay three nights at Jhirabagh Palace heritage hotel built in 1865 by the Puar Kings.

Day 6: Dhar

Day 8: Dhar - Indore Travel to Indore another ancient city but now buzzing metropolis and the largest city in state of Madhya Pradesh. Afternoon visit 200 year old Rajwada palace, mirror temple known for its beautiful interiors of multicoloured glass mosaic, Central Museum and the neo classical wonder Lal Bagh palace. Stay overnight in Indore. Day 9: Indore Departure

Enjoy your leisurely breakfast and tour finish with direct transfer to the Indore airport where you board flight to Mumbai or Delhi to connect your onwards flight.

City is situated among lakes and trees surrounded by barren hills and possess, besides its old ramparts, many interesting buildings, some of them containing

PER PERSON (AU$)

DELUXE Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Sep 15

$2570 / $4147

*In some destinations luxury options are available.

Unique Experience

Panoramic Leh Ladakh BEST TIME TO TRAVEL BETWEEN JUNE TO OCTOBER

9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

1127.00

Bounded by two of the world's mightiest mountain ranges, the Great Himalaya and the Karakoram, Ladakh is situated towards the eastern parts of Jammu and Kashmir. It lies on the crossroads of the historic 'Silk Route' from Sinkiang to West Asia and to the plains of India. This tour offers the historical, cultural and scenic sights of the region and perfect for those who love the peak of mountains and adventure. Leh is easily accessible by air from Delhi.

Day 1: Arrive Leh Leh is a land of beautiful landscapes that are never ending and gorgeous vistas. Often described as moonscape, this desolate high altitude desert is a kingdom of mysticism and mystery. On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you with transfer to the hotel in Leh. As your flight arrives in morning you have full day PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Leh Ends: Leh Grade: Adventurous

to explore local bazaar, narrow streets and to acclimatise to the high altitude. Stay two nights in Leh.

Day 2: Leh & Shey Start today with an excursion to Shey, home to the Ladakhi royalty. Visit Shey Palace built by the king Deldan Namgyal in 1655 AD as a centre of Buddhism. The palace houses Shey Monastery with its largest golden Buddha statue towering 39 feet. Explore the largest Gompa at Thiksey Monastery belonging to Yellow Hat sect of Tibetan Buddhism; which strikingly resembles the Potala Palace of Tibet.

Day 3: Khardungla - Nubra Travel to Nubra valley, passing through the highest motorable road of the world, Khardungla pass. As you descend through the pass, you will get to see the picturesque Sunoor area and Samstanling Gompa, which offers you scenic view of the Dikshit valley. Nubra is also a home of humped back camel and offers you an insight into the ways of life of the local people, living in inconsiderate climatic conditions. Stay overnight at camp offering basic accommodation.

Day 4: Nubra - Leh WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INCLUDED? 07 nights hotel accommodation with private facilities 02 nights at standard camp Private non-air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified Ladakh permit Entry fee and monument charges Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

After breakfast explore Deskit and Hundar, the two most important villages of Nubra Valley. Visit one of the oldest monasteries, a local school and witness the simple lifestyle of the locals. Enjoy a camel ride on sand dunes before travelling back to Leh for overnight stay.

Day 6: Pangong - Leh Enjoy breakfast at the camp amidst the naturally calm environments, you might have rarely experienced such quiet and peaceful mornings where even the birds do not chirp, the only sound you get to hear is the sound of the wind blowing. While returning back to Leh visit Darbuk Village near Tangtse Valley, where stands a chain of war memorials in commemoration of the soldiers who lost their lives during the IndoChina war of 1962. You may see the villagers with their large herds of Pashmina sheep and long-tailed yaks. Stay three nights at Leh.

Day 7: Likir & Alchi Today we discover the rich Buddhist heritage of Ladakh, by travelling to one of the oldest monasteries established in 10th century housing 11th & 12th century wall paintings, all in an Indo Himalayan style. En-route visit Likir monastery which was established in 1065 AD and situated alongside the Valley of Indus River.

Day 8: Leh Enjoy your leisurely breakfast as the day is kept free for you to explore city and local colourful bazaar for handicraft.

Day 9: Leh Departure

After breakfast tour finish with direct transfer to Leh airport where you board flight to Delhi for your onward Journey home.

Day 5: Leh - Pangong Today enjoy scenic ride and explore one of the most beautiful lakes in the Himalayas, the Pangong Lake spread over 604 sq kms of area between India and Tibet. Visit small villages enroute and stay overnight at camp offering basic facilities.

PER PERSON (AU$)

DELUXE Twin/Single

01 June 15 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 30 Oct 15 $1127 / $2156 *In some destinations luxury options are available.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 35

Unique Experience

Badami caves

Charminar, Hyderabad

Diamond & Dynasty of Deccan

Stone Chariot, Hampi

10 DAYS / 9 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

2229.00

This historic tour begins in the former princely city of Hyderabad, a cornucopia of contrasts, rich in Imperial heritage and new age industry. A legacy of the decadent Nizams is the trade of pearls, gold, fabric and of course diamonds. Travel from this Islamic pocket in southern India to the intrinsically Hindu collection of temples at Badami, Aihole, Pattadakal and on to Hampi and the ancient Vijayanagar Empire to see some of India’s most intricate historical stone carvings. Most of the monument visited in this tour is now UNESCO World Heritage Site and showcasing glorious past of the area. If you wish at the end of your explorations through history you can add to stay at Goa, renowned for its endless beaches, places of worship and world heritage architecture.

Day 1: Arrive Hyderabad On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you with transfer to the hotel in Hyderabad for two nights stay.

Day 2: Hyderabad After breakfast and tour briefing proceed for a guided sightseeing of this 400 year old metropolis, founded in 1591 by Muhammad Qutub Quli Shah, the Sultan of Golconda. Visit Charminar, Mecca Masjid known to have bricks brought from Mecca, Salar Jung Museum; houses magnificent exhibits of

European and Indian paintings and statuary, Tank Bund and Hussain Sagar lake.

Day 3: Bidar - Gulbarga Travel to Gulbarga, en-route visiting Bidar, a tiny district steeped in rich history. The Fort, the Cannons, Palaces in ruins, the magnificent tombs and the massive monuments, all combine to makes it must visit to this one-time capital of the Bahamani and Barid Shahi dynasties. Evening free to explore the town and stay overnight at Gulbarga.

Day 4: Gulbarga - Bijapur PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Hyderabad Ends: Goa Grade: Easy Paced

Enjoy city tour of Gulbarga and experience unique synthesis of two cultures. Visit the Gulbarga Fort and the tomb of the great Sufi saint for Sufi experience before travelling to Bijapur. Evening free to explore the town and stay overnight at Bijapur.

Day 5: Aihole & Badami Today visit Gol Gumbaz, the tomb of Mohammed Adil Shah, known to be the second-largest tomb in the world and Jumma Masjid, for being the finest mosques in India before travelling to Badami. En-route visit Aihole “cradle of Indian architecture", housing over 100 temples scattered around the village and continue drive to Badami, the capital of early Chalukyas is picturesquely situated two rocky hills. Afternoon visit the Cave temples and stay overnight at Badami. WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Day 6: Pattadakal & Hospet

A bottle of water while travelling

Morning visit North Fort and Mahakuta temple before travelling to Hospet. En-route visit Pattadakal situated on the bank of the Malaprabha River and has ten major temples representing early Chalukyan architecture. If time permits visit The Tungabhadra Dam or explore local village markets and stay overnight two nights at Hospet.

Entry fee and monument charges

Day 7: Hampi Excursion

Assistance and transfers

Enjoy excursion to Hampi UNESCO World Heritage site and ancient capital of

Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified Local English speaking guide 02 wildlife safari at Dandeli

All current collectable taxes 36 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Vijayanagara during 1336 to 1565 century is a vast site of monuments and ruins, a silent witness to an era of glories, triumphs and tragedies. The ruins are so majestic and imposing that they leave the visitor totally stunned, awestruck and humbled. Visit the Virupaksha Temple, rises majestically at the western end of a 670m long street that was once the famous Hampi bazaar and The Vitthala Temple Complex, 56 pillars in the main hall produce musical notes when struck.

Day 8: Hospet - Dandeli Today travel to Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary abounds with a richness of Flora and Fauna. The sanctuary is generally undulating with steep slopes with picturesque deep river valleys and rich hilly forest terrain. Afternoon free to relax or explore surrounding area and stay two nights at Dandeli.

Day 9: Wildlife Safari Morning and afternoon safari at Dandeli National Park, known to be the home of thousands of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds. Amongst others wild animal you must look for Black Panther, Bison, Elephant and if lucky you may have the glimpse of the tiger which is the one of the living member of this wildlife sanctuary.

Day 10: Dandeli - Goa Departure After leisurely breakfast tour finishes with direct transfer to Goa Airport where you can board flight to Mumbai or Delhi to connect with your onwards flight home

PER PERSON (AU$)

DELUXE Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Sep 15

$2229 / $3854

*In some destinations luxury options are available.

River Ganges Ghat, Rishikesh

Kalmatia Sangam Resort, Almora

Unique Experience

Luxmanjhulla, Rishikesh

UPDATED

Adventure on Himalayan Foothills

10 DAYS / 9 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

2699.00

In this tour experience a mix of soft adventure in the Himalayan Foothills including rafting, trekking and safari. The tour covers both the cultural and natural aspects of the region. From Delhi you head north across the plains, then up through the Himalayan foothills to explore the sacred Hindu pilgrimage site of Rishikesh on the bank of River Ganges. Continue your journey to east to Corbett for game viewing in famous Jim Corbett national park .The outstanding natural beauty of northern India will stimulate your mind and senses, leaving unforgettable memories: the fresh mountain air, the majesty of sunrise over the Himalayas and Almora will gives you a true experience of local life, where old traditions and culture are still part of daily life. PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

Starts: Delhi Ends: Delhi

On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you with transfer to the hotel in Delhi for two nights stay.

Grade: Easy to Moderate

Day 2: Delhi

Departs daily

Enjoy breakfast and brief introduction of the city before starting full day tour of old and New Delhi. Visit Qutub Minar, India gate, Gandhi memorial and Chandni Chowk bazaar.

Day 3: Delhi - Haridwar An early morning transfer to board train to Haridwar and short drive to Rishikesh, one of India’s seven Hindu holy cities situated at the confluence of River Ganges and River Chandrabagha. It is home to many ashrams offering spiritual learning, yoga and meditation. Remaining afternoon is to explore and stay two nights in Rishikesh. WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified Local English speaking guide River rafting in Rishikesh Jeep safari in Corbett Elephant back safari at Corbett Village walks at Almora A bottle of water while travelling Train ticket in air-conditioned class Entry fee and monument charges Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

Day 4: Rishikesh

Enjoy rafting adventure on River Ganges from Shivpuri and end near Laxman Jhula. Afternoon explore spiritual town and evening witness grand prayer by the banks of Ganges.

Day 5: Rishikesh - Corbett Today head to one of the oldest national park of India named after legendary Jim Corbett, who mastered the art of killing man eating tigers to save the local populace. His tales still does the round of the villages around Corbett and his house in Kaladhungi which now converted into museum. Travelling through the villages and towns gives you opportunity to see the countryside of India. Evening is free to relax or explore surrounding areas and stay two nights at Jim Corbett.

Day 6: Wildlife Safari Enjoy morning wildlife safari on the back of an elephant and afternoon by Jeep in this Tiger Reserve, house for many species of wildlife animals, mammal, reptiles and birds. Evening free to relax or go for a walk in nearby village.

Day 7: Corbett - Almora Travel to Almora known to be the first British hill station in India during British Raj. The best way to experience this town is to go for a walk around the town and see local village people wearing traditional colourful dress and buildings that reflect a curious mixture of British colonial and Kumaoni architecture. Stay two nights at Almora.

Day 8: Almora Today enjoy a leisurely walk around the hill to witness stunning beauty of this town.

Day 9: Almora - Delhi After leisurely breakfast transfer to Kathgodam railway station to board Delhi bound train. On arrival transfer to hotel for overnight stay.

Day 10: Delhi Departure

After leisurely breakfast tour finishes with transfer to airport where you board your onward flight home.

PER PERSON (AU$)

DELUXE Twin/Single

10 Oct 14 – 30 Jun 15

$2699 / $4428

*In some destinations luxury options are available.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 37

Train Journeys Indian railway is certainly the “lifeline of the nation”. It began on 16 July, 1853 and now runs around 1,400 trains. Known to be the largest railway network in Asia and the world’s largest railway system under

single management, Indian rail employs around 1.6 million people, making itself the second largest commercial or utility employer in the world. Travelling by train in India is adventurous, efficient and fun.

India by Rail

Top Seller

14 DAYS / 13 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

2383.00

From old steam engines to modern diesel and electric locomotives, this tour by rail covers four Indian states in 14 days unfolding the scenic topography, culture, cuisine and must see monuments of India. PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR

Day 8: Varanasi

Day 1: Arrive Kolkata

Starts: Kolkata Ends: Delhi

On arrival at the airport meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two nights stay in Kolkata.

Grade: Easy – Moderate

Day 2: Kolkata

Departs daily

After breakfast we start our sightseeing tour of this sprawling metropolis home of five Nobel laureates. Visit Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, and drive past Eden Garden and explore the first capital city during British rule.

Day 3: Kolkata - Darjeeling Relax at the hotel or prearrange a visit to Mother Teresa’s Ashram. Board the overnight train to New Jalpaiguri in air-conditioned sleeper class. Overnight on board.

Day 4: Darjeeling

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified

Arrive in the morning and if weather permits, enjoy the narrow gauge toy train pulled by a small steam locomotive, or transfer by car to Darjeeling. Experience an unforgettable scenic ride through the hills and stay three nights at Darjeeling.

Entry fee and monument charges Boat ride in Varanasi

Day 6: Darjeeling

Toy train ride

Go on an early morning excursion to witness the sunrise over the Tiger Hill and visit the famous Ghoom Monastery and institute. In the afternoon visit the bazaar and experience the daily life of the locals.

Train tickets in air-conditioned sleeper class Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

Day 7: Darjeeling - Varanasi

What our clients say:

“We had wonderful holiday, train journeys gave us time to mix with locals and the private car was lovely for sightseeing. Your staff was very helpful and we will always remember their beaming smiles. ” – Tracy & David Maxim, New Zealand 38 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Travel to the railway station to board the overnight train to Varanasi. Enjoy a scenic journey in air-conditioned sleeper class and stay overnight on board. PER PERSON (AU$) 16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

Day 9: Varanasi - Agra An early start to experience a sunrise boat ride on the river Ganges and an excursion to Sarnath. In the afternoon board the overnight train to Agra and enjoy your journey in air-conditioned sleeper class. Overnight on board.

Day 10: Agra Transfer on arrival. In the afternoon visit Agra Fort built by emperor Akbar, Itima-udDaulah; known as the mini Taj Mahal and finish your sightseeing tour with the Taj Mahal, known to be the most perfect marble building in the world. Stay overnight at Agra.

Day 11: Agra - Delhi Enjoy a leisurely breakfast travel to Delhi, evening free to relax or explore local bazaar and stay overnight at Delhi.

Day 12 & 13: Delhi - Shimla

Day 5: Darjeeling Go for a long walk. Enjoy low clouds touching your feet and view the famous lush green Darjeeling tea gardens.

Local English speaking sightseeing guide

Transfer on arrival and in the afternoon explore the spiritual capital of India and witness grand prayer at the temple. Stay overnight at Varanasi.

Early morning transfer to the railway station where you will board the Toy train to Kalka. As the journey begins, one is taken in with the change in vegetation, and the majestic glory of the railway stations and Gothic-style bridges en route. Enjoy charm of the former summer capital of British, The Mall area and stay two nights at Shimla.

Day 14: Shimla - Delhi Departure After an early morning breakfast transfer by road to board the Delhi bound train at Kalka railway station. Late evening arrive in Delhi where the tour finishes with a direct transfer to the airport.

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

$2383 / $3912

$2894 / $4760

$3365 / $5554

Taj Mahal, Agra

Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

TRAIN

JOURNEYS

Tigers & Taj by Rail

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

1384.00

Come aboard and enjoy the picturesque landscapes, the magnificent forts and adventurous train journeys. India is a blend of culture: this short tour provides a taste of Indian heritage, fauna and people. You will cover most of your overland journey by Indian rail which is known as one of the largest railway networks in the world. PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR

Day 1: Arrive Mumbai

Starts: Mumbai Ends: Delhi

On arrival at the airport meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay in Mumbai.

Grade: Easy – Moderate

Day 2: Mumbai - Jaipur

Departs daily

Experience the Bollywood buzz while visiting the Prince of Wales Museum, Gateway of India, the Hanging Garden and Dhobhi Ghat. Late afternoon transfer to board the overnight train to Jaipur. Travel in air-conditioned sleeper class and watch rural India passing by. Overnight on board.

Day 3: Jaipur

Day 4: Jaipur Start your full day of sightseeing with an elephant ride while climbing to the Amber Fort. Later visit City Palace which is still the home of a royal family. Also visit the Observatory and enjoy a photo stop at Hawa Mahal. PER PERSON (AU$)

Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

Transfer on arrival. Rest of the day is free to explore the colourful and chaotic streets , shopping for souvenirs like silver jewellery, embroidered clothing and quilts. Besides shopping one can also watch the skilful artisans at work. While walking down the lanes you will also witness the cultural heritage of the city unfolding a legacy of the royal past.

16 Sep 14 – 15 Sep 15

Day 5: Ranthambhore Transfer to board the morning train and enjoy a short journey to Sawai Madhopur and then by car to Ranthambhore Tiger reserve. In the afternoon relax at the resort or go for walk in the village. Stay two nights at Ranthambhore.

Day 6: Wildlife Safari Enjoy a morning and afternoon wildlife safari, spotting the Royal Bengal Tiger, many wild species of birds, reptiles and capture some spectacular views of the majestic Aravalli Ranges. Don’t forget your camera!

Day 7: Ranthambhore - Agra An early morning transfer to board the train to Bharatpur and then a drive to Agra. En-route visit Fatehpur Sikri known as the abandoned city of Mughals. Stay overnight at Agra.

Day 8: Agra - Delhi Departure An early morning visit to the most impressive Taj Mahal, built by Shah Jahan for his beloved wife, then to the Agra Fort, a priceless example of craftsmanship from the Mughal period. Late afternoon transfer to the station to board the train to Delhi. On arrival to Delhi your tour finishes with direct transfer to the international airport.

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

$1384 / $2182

$1563 / $2502

$1905 / $3025

*Ranthambhore will be replaced by Dholpur since park is closed from 01 July to 30 Sep.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 39

Luxury Trains

For more Luxury Train options, special offers and updated prices, please contact us or your travel agent.

Palace on Wheels

Though times have changed and the winds have shifted, the Palace On Wheels cruises along in Royal Style, the kind only the Maharajas of yesteryears could have perpetuated and enjoyed. Welcome aboard The Palace On Wheels on its splendid and enchanting royal journey through the bygone era of the erstwhile Maharajas.

Places covered: Day 1 (Wed): New Delhi Day 2 (Thu): Jaipur

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

3464.00

Departs every Wednesday

WHAT’S INCLUDED? 7 nights twin accommodation, all meals, conducted sightseeing, entrance fee and monument charges, camel ride at Jaisalmer, boat ride at Udaipur, rickshaw ride at Bharatpur

Day 3 (Fri): Sawai Madhopur, Chittaurgarh Day 4 (Sat): Udaipur Day 5 (Sun): Jaisalmer Day 6 (Mon): Jodhpur Day 7 (Tue): Bharatpur, Agra Day 8 (Wed): Delhi by 0700hrs

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels In the sheer opulence and comfort of Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, you will traverse through Jodhpur, Udaipur, Chittaurgarh, Jaipur and Khajuraho witnessing some of the fascinating architecture and festivals. Stop at Sawai Madhopur for spotting tigers at Ranthambhore, experience the holy city of Varanasi, and mesmerise yourself with the beauty of the Taj Mahal at Agra. Come aboard and let the good times roll!

Places covered:

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

4861.00

Departs every Sunday

WHAT’S INCLUDED? 7 nights twin accommodation, all meals, conducted sightseeing, boat ride, entrance fee/monument charges

Day 1 (Sun): Delhi Day 2 (Mon): Jodhpur Day 3 (Tue): Udaipur & Chittaurgarh Day 4 (Wed): Ranthambhore & Jaipur Day 5 (Thu): Khajuraho Day 6 (Fri): Varanasi Day 7 (Sat): Agra Day 8 (Sun): Delhi by 0745hrs

The Golden Chariot Welcome aboard a fascinating journey through the many worlds of Karnataka. Embark on a luxurious voyage of discovery through the Cradle of Stone architecture. The Golden Chariot train, named after the famous Stone Chariot in Hampi, a world heritage site in Southern India, will travel through timeless historical heritage sites, resplendent palaces and golden beaches.

Pride of the South Places covered:

Day 1 (Mon): Bangalore Day 2 (Tue): Mysore, Kabini, Bandipur Day 3 (Wed): Mysore Day 4 (Thu): Hassan, Belur, Halebid Day 5 (Fri): Hospet, Hampi Day 6 (Sat): Badami Day 7 (Sun): Goa Day 8 (Mon): Bangalore by 0900hrs 40 www.totalholidayoptions.com

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

4238.00

Departs Monday

WHAT’S INCLUDED? 7 nights twin accommodation, all meals, conducted sightseeing, entrance fee and monument charges

Add-On UK & Europe Stopover

Deluxe and Luxury options available on request.

Add-On one or two options to your tour of choice, or string together as many as you wish to create your customised holiday. Following are some wonderful suggestions but If you cant find what you are looking for please contact us.

The Taj Mahal 2 DAYS / 1 NIGHT

Day 1: Delhi - Agra

FROM AU$

294.00

Board the early morning Shatabdi express train departing at 0615hrs to Agra. Visit the imposing Agra Fort, magnified jewel-like Itimad-UdDaulah and the Taj Mahal. Stay overnight at Agra.

Day 2: Fatehpur Sikri - Delhi Enjoy an excursion to Fatehpur Sikri and visit architectural grandeur built by Mughal Emperor Akbar between 1571 and 1584. Late afternoon return to Agra and board train to Delhi. Tour finishes on arrival at Delhi. WHAT’S INCLUDED? 01 night hotel accommodation, sightseeing and transfer by private car, meals as specified, entrance fee, local English speaking tour guide, train tickets

Goa 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

311.00

If there is one thing that makes Goa different from other parts of India then it is its East-West symbiosis, giving it a special historical and social niche. The history of Goa tells a sweet and sour story of colonial heritage, oppressive rulers, a glorious culture, and uneventful immediate past. The city was captured and annexed to the Portuguese in 1510 following the surge of trade and demand of spices, cotton and indigo. As a land with an identity of its own, Goa was brought into focus when it was liberated from Portugal of its oppressive rule of about 450 hundred years, in 1961. Time and it’s amazing beaches have made Goa a famous tourist destination. WHAT’S INCLUDED? 03 nights hotel accommodation, meals as specified, arrival and departure transfer, half day city tour.

Darjeeling & Sikkim 5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

Day 1 & 2: Bagdogra – Darjeeling

Amritsar 3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

282.00

Arrive Amritsar either by train or flight. Our representative will assist you to transfer to the hotel. The next day start your city tour with the Golden Temple, historical Jallianwala Bagh and the Summer Palace Museum. In the evening witness a Flag Retreat ceremony at Wagah Border before concluding your sightseeing tour. On your last day you will be transferred to the airport or railway station for your onward journey.

798.00

Arrive Bagdogra from Kolkata or Delhi and transfer to Darjeeling. Enjoy full day sightseeing with a sunrise visit to Tiger Hill, Ghoom Monastery and Batashia Loop War Memorial. In the evening explore colourful bazaars, the famous Darjeeling tea plantation and if weather is good, than a toy train ride. Stay two nights at hotel.

Day 3 & 4: Darjeeling – Gangtok Travel to Gangtok which offers breathtaking views, colourful lifestyles, Buddhist Shrines, adventure and exquisite flora and fauna. Enjoy full day city sightseeing tour and stay two nights at hotel.

Day 5: Gangtok – Bagdogra After breakfast the tour finishes with a transfer to Bagdogra Airport.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

02 nights hotel accommodation, meals as specified, sightseeing and transfer by private car with driver, local English speaking tour guide and monument fees

04 nights hotel accommodation, meals as specified, sightseeing and transfers by private car with driver, local English speaking guide, monument charges, toy train ride.

Package prices featured above are on low season, per person based on two people sharing a base category room. Please contact us or your agent for any special offer.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 41

Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve 3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS

Mumbai 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

551.00

We assist you to transfer from the airport to the hotel. Touch, feel and experience Mumbai, the bubblegum glamour of Bollywood cinema, shopping malls full of designer labels and red double-decker buses queuing in grinding traffic jams. This pungent drama is played out against a Victorian townscape more reminiscent of a prosperous 19th century English industrial city than anything you would expect to find on the edge of the Arabian Sea. Enjoy a city sightseeing tour and an excursion trip to the 5th century Elephanta Cave provided boats are running on the day.

FROM AU$

366.00

Arrive Sawai Madhopur and transfer to the resort, then enjoy a morning and afternoon safari to the National Park. It is probably the best reserve to spot wild tigers in its dry deciduous habitat. Ranthambhore is known for its rich wildlife, with over 35 reptile species, 320 bird species, leopards, spotted deer, Indian gazelle, wild boar, striped hyenas, and the elusive tiger, to name a few. WHAT’S INCLUDED? 02 nights resort accommodation, meals as specified, 02 wildlife safaris with entrance fee, arrival and departure transfers Note: National park is closed every year from 01 July – 30 September

WHAT’S INCLUDED? 03 nights hotel accommodation , meals as specified, arrival, departure transfers with one full day sightseeing by private car, local Englishspeaking tour guide, monument charges and boat ride.

Ajanta & Ellora Cave 5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

586.00

Day 1: Arrive Aurangabad Assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel for four nights stay.

Day 2: Aurangabad

Enjoy city sightseeing and visit Daulatabad Fort, Panchakki; a flourmill run by water built in 1695, Bibi ka Maqbara built in 1678 by Sultan Azam Shah in an intentional bid to copy and rival the world famous Taj Mahal.

Day 3: Ellora Caves

Holy Varanasi 3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

298.00

Varanasi is probably one of the most ancient living cities in the world and has been a great religious centre for Hindus. On your second day experience sunrise boat ride on the holy river Ganges and an excursion to Sarnath where lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Evening witness Maha Pooja at one of the temple before concluding your evening with overnight at hotel. WHAT’S INCLUDED? 03 nights hotel accommodation, meals as specified, arrival and departure transfers with one full day sightseeing by private car, local English speaking tour guide, monument charges and boat ride

Go for a day excursion to visit Ellora Caves, one of the highly visited World Heritage sites of India. It houses 34 monasteries and temples with some exclusive uninterrupted sequence of monuments that date back from 600 to 1000 AD.

Day 4: Ajanta Caves

Today enjoy an excursion to the Ajanta Caves recognised as World Heritage Site. Its location within the Sahyadri Hills above the Waghora, depicts the story of Buddhism that prevailed during 200 BC to 650 AD. Etched and painted in mineral dyes, the paintings have a languorous stylised beauty and magical eloquence.

Day 5: Aurangabad Departure After breakfast the tour finishes with a transfer to the airport. WHAT’S INCLUDED? 04 nights hotel accommodation, meals as specified, sightseeing and transfers by private car, local English speaking guide and entry fee

Package prices featured above are on low season, per person based on two people sharing a base category room. Please contact us or your agent for any special offer.

42 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Kerala Houseboat 3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

578.00

The blossoms of spring, the cool weather of summer and the gold and red hues of autumn all provide the peak season to visit Kashmir. This small tour is set to engulf you in its panoramic charms. The silver lakes, snow-capped mountains, most scenic gardens replete with beautiful flowers are perfect for a memorable holiday. Adventurous excursions and unequalled five nights stay in the Royal Houseboats is bound to mesmerise you.

Day 1: Arrive Srinagar Arrive Srinagar from Delhi or Mumbai and transfer to the traditional Kashmiri houseboat. Stay five nights on board.

Day 2: Gulmarg Excursion

541.00

The backwaters are an elaborate chain of lagoons, lakes and rivers spread like a necklace through central Kerala. Cruising provides an excellent opportunity to view the lifestyle of the locals living alongside the waterways.

Kashmir Houseboat 6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

Day 1-2: Kettuvallam Onboard On arrival in Cochin airport transfer to board a private houseboat docked at Alleppey. Enjoy cruising through narrow serene backwater canals, experience tranquillity, tradition and customs while observing the daily life of locals living alongside the backwaters. Stay two nights on board.

Day 3: Kumarakom - Cochin

After breakfast disembark and transfer to the Cochin airport to board your onward flight home. WHAT’S INCLUDED? 02 nights onboard private houseboat on full board basis, assistance and return airport transfers, all current taxes

Enjoy full day excursion to Gulmarg and walk in the lush green meadows of flowers with a backdrop of the snow capped mountains.

Day 3: Sonamarg Excursion

Excursion to Sonamarg through the Sindh Valley known as “the meadow of gold’ famous for trout fishing.

Day 4: Srinagar

Enjoy city sightseeing tour, visit one of the oldest mosques built in 1400AD, Hazratbal Mausoleum and world-renowned Mughal gardens.

Day 5: Srinagar

After breakfast relax as the day is free for your own activities.

Day 6: Srinagar Departure

After breakfast tour finishes with transfer to the airport to board your onward flight home. WHAT’S INCLUDED? 05 nights accommodation in private deluxe houseboat, private car for transfer and sightseeing, meals as specified, English speaking tour guide, one return shikara transfer a day, entrance fee/ monument charges, all current taxes

Golf in Greens Delhi 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

1185.00

On arrival in Delhi you will be assisted by THO Tour Executive and transfer to Jaypee Greens Golf & Spa Resort located outskirts of Delhi. Set amidst 450 acres of pristine land, Resort is a harmonious blend of luxury, impeccable service age old traditions and contemporary sophistication. This captivate 18 hole Championship Golf Course is designed by none other than Greg Norman and super-luxury designer resort built on 9 acres offers 170 harmoniously designed rooms (152 deluxe rooms and 18 suites), seven fine dining experiences, an exotic kid’s zone, a world renowned Six Senses Spa amongst other facilities. Your Golf Course entrance fee is included while you stay three nights in the Resort. On your fourth day after breakfast you will be transferred to the airport to board onwards flight home. WHAT’S INCLUDED? 03 nights accommodation in deluxe room, daily breakfast, golf course entrance fee and return airport transfer by private car Note: Day excursion to visit Taj Mahal can be arranged. Caddie, Golf Carts and equipment for hire are available at the resort.

Package prices featured above are on low season, per person based on two people sharing a base category room. Please contact us or your agent for any special offer.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 43

Rural Experience DAY EXCURSION

FROM AU$

178.00

Duration: 6-8hrs From: Jodhpur, Luni, Rohet, Jhalamand or Pal

The Lucknow Nawabs

This is a very unique activity where you enjoy an off-road soft adventure by 4X4 through the semi arid desert of Jodhpur to witness distinctive local communities, culture and wildlife. You will be picked up from the hotel after breakfast around 8:30 am and before long, we are hitting the rural and desert tracks through dry river bed and witness camel, bullock and buffalo cart which are the local mode of transport for the communities. En-route you get the opportunity to see wildlife that is abundant in this area. On arrival at the rural village you will visit their homes to witness simple and colourful lifestyle of the locals. A delicious packed picnic lunch is served at scenic spot before visiting another village where senior member of the local community invites you to take part in a ceremony of friendship and brotherhood. Later walk around the village to see craftsmen at work and get a glimpse into the village life of western Rajasthan. You will be transferred back to the hotel by sundown leaving you with memories of a rural visit completely off the beaten path and unlike anything else you will experience during your visit to Rajasthan. WHAT’S INCLUDED?

3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

398.00

On arrival in Lucknow you will be assisted by THO Tour Executive and transfer to the hotel. Lucknow is the hallmark of cultural extravaganza and famous for its delicious Awadhi cuisine, Chikan textile and unique culture. Your first introduction to the city will be guided walking tour of world famous traditional roadside eateries, cuisine handed over generations. Next day we visit a Chikan work shop to witness skilled worker delicately working on unique styles and stitches on very light cotton cloths and continue with the city sightseeing tour. Visit Bada Imambara, Museum and leisure walk in Hazrat Ganj and Aminabad local bazaar giving chance to shop traditional but very comfortable Chikan dress. Stay two nights in hotel and day three your tour finish after breakfast with direct transfer to the airport. WHAT’S INCLUDED? 02 night’s hotel accommodation, walking food tour, city sightseeing and return airport transfers by private car

Return hotel transfer, 4x4 vehicles with experienced driver guide, picnic lunch, meet with village community, craftsmen, locals and experience their simple lifestyle

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary 2 DAYS / 1 NIGHT

FROM AU$

Pearls of Hyderabad

330.00

On arrival at Bharatpur railway station you will be assisted by THO tour executive and transfer to the hotel. Afternoon enjoy rickshaw ride through one of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and finest bird parks in the world. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary also known as Keoladeo Ghana National Park is a reserve that offers protection to faunal species and nesting indigenous water-birds as well as migratory water birds along with other wild animals. Stay overnight at hotel. Next day tour finishes after breakfast with transfer to the railway station.

3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

356.00

On arrival at Hyderabad airport you will be assisted by THO tour executive and transfer to the hotel. Enjoy city sightseeing of this 400 year old metropolis, founded in 1591 by Muhammad Qutub Quli Shah, the Sultan of Golconda. Visit Charminar, Mecca Masjid known to have bricks brought from Mecca, Salar Jung Museum; houses magnificent exhibits of European and Indian paintings and statuary, Tank Bund and Hussain Sagar lake. Stay two nights at hotel. On day three tour finishes after breakfast with direct transfer to airport.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

01 night hotel accommodation, bird sanctuary visit with rickshaw ride and return railway station transfers by private car

02 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast, city sightseeing tour, return airport transfers by private car

Package prices featured above are on low season, per person based on two people sharing a base category room. Please contact us or your agent for any special offer.

44 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Shimla & Toy Train 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

620.00

Board your morning train from Delhi to Kalka where you will be assisted to change the trains and board Himalayan Queen Train. This train journey is also registered in The Guinness Book as the greatest narrow gauge engineering achievement in India. The train passes through the breathtaking landscapes of majestic Himalayas, 103 tunnels, 969 bridges, 919 curves and more than 20 railway stations in its entire journey. Enjoy the splendid views of snow clad ranges of the Himalayas, covered with thickly populated forests of pine and oak. On arrival met by THO tour executive and transfer to the hotel. The magnificent old sites and structures hold the reminiscences of the pre-independence era, when India was ruled by the British. Enjoy an excursion to Kufri, explore the town and stay three nights in hotel. On day four tour finishes after breakfast with transfer to Kalka railway station where you board train to Delhi. WHAT’S INCLUDED? 03 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast, train fare DelhiShimla-Delhi, Kufri excursion, return airport transfers by private car in Shimla

Haridwar & Rishikesh 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

554.00

On arrival at Haridwar railway station, you will be assisted by THO tour executive and transfer to the hotel in Rishikesh. Besides being a very important religious centre for Hindu, Rishikesh is also recognised as the world capital of Yoga. Enjoy morning walk to the Ghats, city sightseeing tour, Grand Prayer ceremony on the bank of River Ganges and excursion to Haridwar. Explore this world renowned spiritual city and stay three nights at hotel. On your fourth day tour finishes after breakfast with transfer to the Haridwar railway station. WHAT’S INCLUDED? 03 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast, excursion to Haridwar, return Haridwar railway station transfers by private car

Kerala Homestay Thekkady 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

Kolkata 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

520.00

On arrival at Kolkata airport, you will be assisted by THO tour executive and transfer to the hotel. Kolkata is the cultural hub of west Bengal and the capital of India during British emperor offer great mix of colonial and local culture. Enjoy sighting tour and visit Howrah Bridge and the neighbouring flower market for a peek into the morning rituals of local Bengalis, Kumar Tuli, Victoria Memorial, and Tagore house to legendry Mother Teresa House and take a boat ride to visit Belur Math. Stay three nights in hotel. On fourth day your tour finishes after breakfast with transfer to the airport.

FROM AU$

597.00

Living with local family in India is very rewarding and unique experience where you get chance to see and understand their daily life. We very carefully selected a heritage family house set amidst the quiet and serene surroundings of Amaravathy and spread across 7 acres of lush green landscape comprising spice plants and fruit trees. Our host will make you feel at home and ensure that you enjoy your stay. Rooms are air-conditioned with private facility and offer complete feel of Typical India home. It has spectacular views of the mountains and walking in the area is a popular activity. While staying visit Periyar National Park, witness Kathakali Dance show, explore Spice Markets, Sample the wonderful home cooked food, spend time with the host family and participate in activities for a memorable experience.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

03 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast, sightseeing, entrance fee to the monument, boat ride on Hugli River, return airport transfers by private car

03 nights accommodation with breakfast and dinner, sightseeing, entrance fee to the monument, boat ride on Periyar Lake and wildlife safari

Package prices featured above are on low season, per person based on two people sharing a base category room. Please contact us or your agent for any special offer.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 45

The Winery of India 3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS

Varanasi & Khajuraho FROM AU$

615.00

If we talk about the Indian wine and first thing which may come in your mind, Wine in India? Nashik is India’s largest grape-growing region situated northeast of Mumbai, but had traditionally never been used to grow wine grapes. Climate of this area is known to be perfect for wine grapes and also on par with winegrowing regions in Spain, California, and Australia. It was 1997 when revolutionary step was taken of planting French Sauvignon Blanc and Californian Chenin Blanc, varieties that had never before been planted in India. The first Sula wines, released in 2000, were widely acclaimed as India’s best white wines. Since its inception, Sula has rapidly established itself as India’s Leading Premium Wine Producer, helping spark a wine revolution that has seen consumption grow at 25% annually. Enjoy wine tour with tasting, return transfer from Mumbai and two night stay in the Beyond Wine resort. WHAT’S INCLUDED? 02 nights accommodation with breakfast and dinner, wine tour with tasting, and return Mumbai airport transfers by private car

4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

456.00

Day 1: Arrive Varanasi On arrival at Varanasi airport, you will be assisted by THO tour executive and transfer to the hotel. Varanasi is a city of traditional classical culture and microcosm of Hinduism. A city with rich and vibrant past, it has no exquisitely carved palaces, no impregnable fort, and no architectural splendour but still has an inherent charm of its own, with Ghats dotted with temples and maze of alleys alongside. Afternoon visit Silk Weaving Village to see few remaining artisan hand knitting world famous Varanasi silk and evening witness the Grand prayer ceremony conducted on the Ghats of River Ganges. Stay two nights in Varanasi.

Day 2: Varanasi

An early morning start to enjoy sunrise boat ride on River Ganges to see the perpetual movement of the pilgrims on the steps, the vivid colours of their clothes glistening against the pale gold water, the triangular flags fluttering atop the temple spires. After breakfast, proceed for city tour of Varanasi followed by an excursion to Sarnath where Buddha is said to have given his first sermon. Evening free to explore.

Day 3: Varanasi - Khajuraho Morning transfer to board flight to Khajuraho. Afternoon visit the 10th century old Chandella temples which are the excellent example of Indo-Aran architecture. Famed for their erotic sculptures, the temples in fact depict an exquisite detail of the everyday life of people of that era. Evening free to explore this small village town and stay overnight in Khajuraho.

Day 4: Khajuraho Departure

After leisurely breakfast tour finishes with transfer to airport where you board flight to Mumbai or Delhi to connect your onward flight. WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Dharavi Slum - Mumbai HALF DAY

FROM AU$

139.00

03 nights accommodation with breakfast, city sightseeing tour, entrance fee to monument, village visit, boat ride and transfers by private car. (Excludes Varanasi to Khajuraho airfare) *airfare Varanasi-Khajuraho at an extra cost

On this half day tour, you will see why Dharavi is the heart of small scale industry in Mumbai. Many people know Dharavi as the 'largest slum in Asia', but there is much more to this historic area of Mumbai than poverty. To your surprise Dharavi's industries have an annual turnover of approximately US$ 665 million. See wide range of small industries, recycling, pottery-making, embroidery, bakery, soap factory, leather tanning, poppadom-making and many more. This place is best example of multi cultural and multi religion as the temples, mosques and churches stand side by side. WHAT’S INCLUDED? Local tour guide, return transfers from city hotel by private car Package prices featured above are on low season, per person based on two people sharing a base category room. Please contact us or your agent for any special offer.

46 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Salaam Baalak Trust Walk - Delhi HALF DAY

FROM AU$

144.00

The Salaam Baalak Trust is an NGO that provide shelters and care for children. This city walk aims to make story of street children heard and to give a view of their world through their eyes. In this half day walk you will walk through the enchanting streets of the inner city of Paharganj and the area around New Delhi railway station, led by a child who was once living and working on the streets and are now a trained local guide. It's a unique way of providing an insight into the lives of these children and an opportunity for them to improve their communication and speaking skills. For you it will be an eye opener and for the guides, it is a walk down the memory lane, the places held dear to them and how they faced the odds to survive to be where they stand proudly today. WHAT’S INCLUDED? Local tour guide, return transfers from city hotel by private car

Flavours of India COOKING CLASS

FROM AU$

95.00

Duration: 4-5hrs City: Delhi, Jaipur, Chennai, Bangalore, Cochin and Thekkady Learn authentic Indian Cooking in an Indian family home. Have you wondered why cooking from recipes book does not taste the same? Chefs do not pass on their secrets. But, here in these cookery classes you get to learn how to mix Indian Spices and the 5 C’s that are essential to Indian cuisine: Cloves, Cardamom, Cinnamon, Coriander and Cumin. The dishes you learn will be a mix of quick and easy dishes that can be enjoyed as a mid week supper and slow cooked dishes that you can impress friends and family with. Since every state is proud of their cuisine, menu in the chosen city will vary. WHAT’S INCLUDED? 01 cooking class 2-3 dishes in any of above destinations, utensils, ingredients and one meal (Lunch or dinner), current applicable taxes.

Andaman Islands 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

449.00

Board flight from Kolkata or Chennai to Port Blair and on arrival transfer to the hotel. Floating in splendid isolation, the Indian mainland is the archipelago of 572 emerald islands, known as Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This Union Territory is stretched over an area of more than 700km with 36 inhabited islands. These undulating islands are covered with dense forests and an endless variety of exotic flowers and birds. The series of islands offers an excellent scope for water sports.

Ayurveda & Beaches 5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

488.00

From Trivandrum airport we assist you to transfer to Kovalam beach resort to rejuvenate your senses through Ayurveda. Here is a picture perfect tropical beach and a traditional fishing village providing fresh fish, fruits and a favorable climate making Kovalam a favorite year round spot for tourists. Sunbathe on the clean white sandy beach or indulge in a rejuvenating herbal massage.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

03 nights accommodation with private facilities, daily breakfast and dinner as mentioned, arrival and departure transfers

04 nights hotel accommodation, meals as specified, arrival and departure transfers, 01 Ayurvedic Oil Massage

Package prices featured above are on low season, per person based on two people sharing a base category room. Please contact us or your agent for any special offer.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 47

Sri Lanka A Land Like No Other Situated just 32kms off the India coast, the island formerly known as Ceylon is home to 20 million people. The gorgeous land of Sri Lanka has many nicknames, each of which describes its unique features. This island country, because of its geographical location, is known as the “Teardrop of India” and its cultural richness has earned it the title

of the “Pearl of the Orient”. The country known by a flotilla of aliases, the Resplendent Isle is one of gorgeous beaches, tea plantations and ancient cities. Scuba dive, visit an elephant orphanage and a lagoon of singing fish, explore dense jungle, shrines and temples.

Climate and Weather in Sri Lanka Sri Lanka enjoys a tropical climate with varying temperatures according to location. Coastal or upland areas benefit from cool mountain or sea breeze all year round. Monsoon season is between May to September in the South and West. From October to April in the North and East of the country. These monsoons give Sri Lanka its only seasons as it is located so near the Equator. Temperatures average 27°C in Colombo and 16°C in Nuwara Eliya, which is on higher ground, all year round. Best time to travel to Sri Lanka is between the main rainy seasons. The period from October to April is the driest season on the south west coast and up in the hills. Here, some of the best beaches and many other places of tourist interest are located. Therefore the period between October and April is the best time to visit this region and is also considered the tourist season in Sri Lanka. May to September is the best time to visit the east coast, as it is dry during this period. Hence, Sri Lanka is a round-theyear destination; there is always a good time to visit at least some part of the country. “It may well be that each of Sri Lanka’s attractions is surpassed somewhere on Earth; Cambodia may have more impressive ruins, Tahiti lovelier beaches, Bali more beautiful landscapes (though I doubt it), Thailand more charming people (ditto). But I find it hard to believe that there is any country which scores so highly in all departments - which has so many advantages and so few disadvantages, especially for the western visitor.” ARTHUR C. CLARKE

Average Temperature (for guidance only) CITY Colombo

Temp. max ºc Min ºc

48 www.totalholidayoptions.com

JAN 30 23

FEB 31 24

MAR 32 25

APR 32 25

MAY 31 26

JUN 30 26

JUL 29 26

AUG 29 25

SEP 29 25

OCT 29 25

NOV 29 25

DEC 30 25

Hotel, Transfer and Sightseeing Options

Colombo, Kandy, Yala All airport transfers is accompanied by THO Tour Executive and private air-conditioned car with driver:  Colombo: TWIN AU$: 28.00

The Kingsbury

Colombo



Elegance and charm in the design and ambience, modern amenities, luxurious comfort and impeccable service, all make a stay with The Kingsbury a classical, yet contemporary experience.

Jetwing Lighthouse

Galle



Located on the ancient Dutch outpost of Galle, the hotel embraces a rugged outcrop along the coastline and is the last unique architectural triumph of Geoffrey Bawa. Minimalistic, stately and elegant this inspired creation will captivate you with its unparalleled wonder.

Jetwing Sea

Negombo



Located famed resort town of Negombo, offering golden stretch of beach extends in idyllic peace as far as the eye can see. Well appointed rooms and the location makes this hotel a wonderful options for business and leisure clients.

Amaya Hills

Kandy



Built along the lines of a Kandyan Palace and nestled in the picturesque hill tops of Kandy, this hotel offers guests a breathtaking retreat that peers into the verdant mountains of Hanthana.

Jetwing

Yala

FROM AU$

130.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes) Property Features: Restaurants, room service, bar, business centre, fitness centre, swimming pool, beauty salon, laundry Room Features: Tea/coffee maker, phone, TV, mini bar, hairdryer, iron, work station, internet

FROM AU$

89.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes) Property Features: Restaurants, bar, swimming pool, room service, beauty salon, business centre, laundry Room Features: Tea/coffee maker, mini bar, TV, phone, internet, work station

FROM AU$

82.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes) Property Features: Restaurant, room service, fitness centre, swimming pool, laundry Room Features: Tea/coffee maker, phone, TV, mini bar, hairdryer, work station, internet

105.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes)

Located close to national park as well as beach, a combination of awe-inspiring wildlife, a wellness centre, and a commitment to sustainability makes this hotel a beacon of light in the deep South. The food is superbly delicious and caters to diverse palettes.

Trincomalee

111.00

Property Features: Restaurant, room service, concierge, beauty salon, fitness centre, swimming pool, laundry Room Features: Tea/coffee maker, phone, TV, mini bar, hairdryer, work station, internet

FROM AU$



Chaaya Blue

FROM AU$

(includes daily breakfast and taxes)



Located on the sparkling shores of the eastern beach, where guests could bask in the sun and relax or experience an adrenaline rush by engaging in surfing, scuba diving, deep sea fishing, whale and dolphin watching.

Property Features: Restaurant, room service, concierge, beauty salon, fitness centre, swimming pool, laundry Room Features: Tea/coffee maker, phone, TV, mini bar, hairdryer, work station, internet

FROM AU$

98.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes) Property Features: Restaurants, room service, bar, business centre, fitness centre, swimming pool, PADI certified Dive Centre, laundry, WiFi Room Features: Tea/Coffee maker, mini bar, TV, phone, internet, work station

Colombo City Tour Travel through the commercial area, Pettah, a noisy Oriental bazaar with its mix of cultures, ancient vehicles, mosques, temples and churches to visit Portuguese and Dutch forts, temples and Jami-Ul Alfar Jumma Mosque. Departs: daily 9am & 2pm Duration: Half day (4 hours)

TWIN AU$

55.00

Hotel prices featured in the brochure are on low season, per person based on two people sharing a base category room. Please contact us or your agent for any special offer.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 49

SRI LANKA

Glimpse of Paradise

7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS

Day 1: Arrive Colombo

Day 2: Dambulla/Habarana

On arrival at the airport, meet your tour manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Travel to Dambulla/Habarana, en-route visit the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, the Golden Temple and 2nd century Dambulla Caves. Stay two nights at the hotel.

PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Colombo Ends: Colombo Grade: Easy – Moderate

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver guide Meals as specified Entrance fees and tickets

Day 3: Polonnaruwa Excursion Enjoy city sightseeing and an excursion to Polonnaruwa, known to be the second ancient capital of Sri Lanka. Later climb the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress to visit the 5th century ruined palace.

Day 4: Kandy

Travel to Kandy, en-route visit the 2nd century Aluvihara Temple at Matale where Buddhist preaching was recorded for the first time. Stay two nights at Kandy. PER PERSON (AU$)

Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

16 Sep 14 – 15 Sep 15

FROM AU$

1059.00

Day 5: Kandy After breakfast we visit the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, Gem Stone workshop and the local bazaar. In the evening enjoy Kandyan dance then we visit the sacred temple of Tooth Relic which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stay overnight night in Kandy.

Day 6: Colombo/Negombo Travel through tea plantations to Colombo via Nuwara Eliya, visit a tea factory and see beautiful waterfalls in Ramboda. In the evening explore the city and stay overnight

Day 7: Colombo Departure After a leisurely breakfast the tour will finish with a transfer to Colombo Airport.

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

$1059 / $1666

$1335 / $2138

$1495 / $2351

*During festival and New Year surcharge may apply.

Traditional Farming of Lanka Day 1: Arrive Colombo On arrival at the airport, meet your executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for overnight stay. PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Colombo Ends: Colombo

Day 4: Sigiriya & Fruit farm Visit the 5th century Sigiriya Rock Fortress before arriving at a traditional farm growing varieties of tropical fruits.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Today leave for Hingurakgoda to experience one of the largest farms spread around 1300 acres producing a variety of agriculture and livestock products from seed paddies, rice, fruits, vegetables and poultry, to dairy for local and overseas markets. Afternoon enjoy a cooking demonstration by the local chef followed by lunch. If you wish you can participate in farming activities.

Meals as specified Entrance fee and monument charges Farm and village visit Cooking demonstration with lunch A bottle of mineral water while travelling

Travel to Kandy, stopping en route in Matale spice growing region for special insight into some unique Sri Lankan agriculture. We enjoy a tour of a spice plantation growing cinnamon, nutmeg, pepper, cloves, cardamom and many more varieties of spices. Afternoon enjoy a cultural show at the theatre followed by Temple of the Tooth Relic. Stay overnight at Kandy.

Day 6: Colombo Departure After breakfast the tour will finish with a transfer to Colombo Airport.

COMFORT Twin/Single

Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Sep 15

$1039 / $1571

$1187 / $1857

$1397 / $2143

*During festival and New Year surcharge may apply.

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Day 5: Matale - Kandy

PER PERSON (AU$)

Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

1039.00

After breakfast travel to Dambulla and check in to the hotel for three nights. Afternoon enjoy walk through the reservoir and a catamaran ride before reaching a traditional farm. Spend time with farmer and witness ancient methods of farming before visiting the farmers hut to enjoy humble hospitality.

Day 3: Hingurakgoda Excursion

Private air-condition car with driver guide

FROM AU$

Day 2: Dambulla

Grade: Easy – Adventurous

Hotel accommodation with private facilities

6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS

DELUXE

LUXURY

SRI LANKA

Most o P pular

Highlights of Lanka

Day 1: Arrive Colombo On arrival at the airport, meet your tour manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay at Colombo.

Day 2: Dambulla/Habarana

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

museum in the afternoon. In the evening enjoy an upper lake drive and watch a cultural show before finishing your day.

Day 3: Wildlife Safari

Day 6: Bentota/Beruwela

Departs daily Starts: Colombo Ends: Colombo

Day 4: Kandy

PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR

Hotel accommodation with private facilities

Travel to Kandy, en-route visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and spice garden at Matale where you will see the spice plantations and be able to purchase locally grown spices as a souvenir. Stay two nights at Kandy.

Private air-conditioned car with driver guide

Day 5: Kandy

Meals as specified

In the morning explore the town and visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the Gem

Grade: Easy Paced

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Entry fees and tickets Wildlife safari at Minneriya National Park

1365.00

at Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage. In the afternoon visit the World Heritage site of Dambulla Cave. Stay two nights at hotel. Enjoy a visit to Polonnaruwa, the old capital of Sri Lanka. In the afternoon take a wildlife safari at Minneriya National Park, showcasing a large number of wild elephant families and wild species of birds and reptiles.

Travel by road to Dambulla, en-route stop

FROM AU$

PER PERSON (AU$)

River safari at Bentota

Travel by road to a small resort town in the south western coastal belt and stay two nights at resort.

Day 7: Bentota/Beruwela Visit a Turtle Hatchery at Kosgoda and see several colourful and endangered species of turtles. Enjoy a river safari on the Bentota River and experience the unique eco-system and breathtaking beauty.

Day 8: Colombo Departure After breakfast, the tour finishes with a transfer to Colombo Airport.

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

$1365 / $2108

$1559 / $2475

$1732 / $2618

Assistance and transfers

16 Sep 14 – 15 Sep 15

All current collectable taxes

*During festival and New Year surcharge may apply.

Lanka and Leopard

7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

1043.00

Day 1: Arrive Colombo

Day 4: Tissamaharama

Starts: Colombo Ends: Colombo

On arrival at the airport, meet your tour manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Grade: Easy Paced

Day 2: Kandy

Travel to Yala National Park to enjoy the wildlife safari and spot leopards and many other wildlife species before participating in a spiritual ceremony at Kataragama Temple. Stay overnight at hotel.

PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily

Private air-conditioned car with driver guide

In the morning travel by road to Kandy, then in the evening visit the most sacred Temple of Tooth Relic and enjoy a cultural show. Stay overnight at Kandy.

Meals as specified

Day 3: Nuwara Eliya

Entrance fees and tickets

Travel to Nuwara Eliya passing through tea plantation. In the afternoon explore the town and stay overnight at Nuwara Eliya.

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities

Wildlife safari at Yala National Park Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

PER PERSON (AU$) 16 Sep 14 – 15 Sep 15

Day 5 & 6: Bentota/Beruwela Travel by road to Bentota, en-route stop at Galle and the Moonstone Mines at Meetiyagoda. Enjoy water sports and two nights beach stay.

Day 7: Colombo Departure After a leisurely breakfast the tour will finish with a transfer to Colombo Airport.

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

$1043 / $1679

$1227 / $1940

$1350 / $2121

*During festival and New Year surcharge may apply.

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SRI LANKA

Wildlife Wonders of Lanka

10 DAYS / 9 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

1880.00

Sri Lanka’s wildlife is as varied as the island itself, ranging from elephants and leopards to egg-laying turtles and a huge variety of birds. With 12 per cent of the country designated for wildlife protection it is easy to get a taste of Sri Lankan wildlife. Safari parks and sanctuaries, particularly in the southern and central zones, offer the easiest way to see animals in their natural habitat. Stay alert for a sighting of the endangered leopard; take your time as you watch the elephants feeding and washing in a tank or lagoon; or walk quietly near to the turtles until they stop to lay their eggs. Safaris are arranged with cultural tours as it is possible to find wide range of wildlife in place surrounded by cultural heritages mainly in the dry zone. One of the key reasons which makes Sri Lanka a popular wild life destination is the availability of expertise. This tour covers variety of national parks to ensuring you get the chance to see all possible wildlife exists in the island.

Day 1: Arrive Colombo On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel in Negombo for two nights stay.

Day 2: Colombo - Sinharaja After breakfast proceed to Sinharaja Rain forest. Moist and muggy, murky and mysterious; Sinharaja is like nothing else in Sri Lanka. Trekking through this magnificent jungle, the last surviving stretch of virgin rainforest on the island, is a truly enriching experience. From top to bottom the forest is teeming with life, colour and sound to stir the senses. Sinharaja is a UNESCO International Man and Biosphere Reserve.

Day 3: Udawalawe & Bundala After breakfast we proceed to Udawalawa National Park with a packed breakfast. An PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Colombo Ends: Colombo Grade: Easy Paced

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver guide Meals as specified Entrance fees and monument charges 01 safari at Minneriya 01 safari at Yala 01 safari at Sinharaja 01 safari at Udawalawe 01 safari at Bundala Visit to Hortan Plains Visit to Wasgamuwa Visit to Knuckle Valley A bottle of mineral water while travelling Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

52 www.totalholidayoptions.com

estimated 500 elephants in herds to up to 1,000 live here and the dry season is the best to watch them. Enjoy a safari to see whole herds of elephants bathing, playing and feeding in the water.

Day 4: Bundala & Yala Wake up early for a Safari at Bundala National Park. Bundala wetlands combine 20km of beach, lagoons and scrub hosting more than 150 bird species. These wetlands are home to winter migratory birds and flocks of flamingos. A vast concentration of Estuarine crocodiles live in the lagoon areas and in the estuary of the Kirindi Oya river. Later return to hotel for breakfast and travel to Yala.

Day 5: Yala First thing in the morning will be your best chance to see a leopard as you enjoy a safari at Yala National Park. The male leopards in Yala are very confident animals and young males in particular seem to have no fear of the jeep, which can lead to some excellent photographic opportunities. The park is also home to spotted deer, sambar, boar, wild buffaloes, sloth bear, jackal and mongoose.

Day 6: Yala - Nuwara Eliya Travel to Nuwara Eliya, en-route visit a tea plantation and a tea factory, where the best Ceylon Tea in the world is produced. Afternoon free to explore this small, beautiful town and stay overnight at hotel.

Day 7: Horton Plains & Kandy Enjoy an excursion at Horton Plains to "catch" the remaining Highland endemics. Horton plains or Mahaeliya Tenna in Sinhalese are the great plains of the central hills of Sri Lanka. The starting point is marked by a gate and a little pond and further up you’ll end up in a resting station before you start the trek, 10 km of it. Once you reach the

world's end you’ll experience the cloud forest. You’ll need a bit of patience to wait for the clouds to part and show you the great vista of the valley spreading for miles below. Further on, the trail becomes even and then you’ll have to make an arduous climb down to see Bakers falls and rest at the platform relishing the cool spray of the fall. Later travel to Kandy and if time permits we visit the famous and sacred Temple of the Tooth relic. Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 8: Wasgamuwa & Knuckle Proceed to Wasgamuwa via Knuckles Valley, a major eco tourism area stretching over 155 sq km and containing five major forest formations, a wide variety of endemic flora and fauna and some breathtaking mountain scenery. It is a real paradise for those who love to hike or mountain bike offering numerous mountainous trails that journey across clear rivers, through dense forests, past flowing waterfalls, lush tea plantations and alongside terraced paddy fields.

Day 9: Wasgamuwa - Negombo Wasgamuwa National Park, located in the districts of Matale and Polonnaruwa and bordered by the ‘Mahaweli' and ‘Amban' rivers, stretches an impressive 36,948 hectares. Home to a huge variety of flora and fauna, this park is truly a paradise for the nature lover. Enjoy a safari at Wasgamuwa, spotting large flocks of birds, big herds of dear and buffalos grazing. Return to the hotel for breakfast, travel to Negombo and evening free to explore this fishing town. Stay overnight at Negombo.

Day 10: Colombo Departure After breakfast tour finish with transfer to airport where you board flight for your onward journey.

PER PERSON (AU$)

COMFORT Twin/Single

Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Sep 15

$1880 / $3012

$2166 / $3385

$2365 / $3708

*During festival and New Year surcharge may apply.

DELUXE

LUXURY

Nuwara Eliya

e First-timers Travell e Choic

Adam's Peak

Anuradhapura

Best of Ceylon

11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

SRI LANKA

FROM AU$

1847.00

This brief tour combines culture and relaxation taking in some of Sri Lanka’s finest historical, archaeological and natural treasures whilst not forgetting the pleasures of a few days by the sea. Tour the Cultural Triangle visiting the ancient cities of Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura, the sacred cave temples of Dambulla and the inspiring sky citadel of Sigiriya. Travel to the bustling city of Kandy where you may explore the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the magnificent Peredeniya Botanical Gardens. Travel to Nuwara Eliya and enjoy the misty experience of the tea garden. Finish the trip with a few days at a charming boutique hotel with miles of beaches right on the doorstep.

Day 1: Arrive Colombo

Day 3: Anuradhapura

Meet and assistance on arrival at the airport by tour executive and transfer to hotel for overnight stay.

Enjoy an excursion to Anuradhapura, ancient capital between 5th century BC - 9th century AD and the centre of the island’s Buddhist civilization. Visit Mihintale on our way back to the hotel. Evening enjoy catamaran ride on the Habarana Lake with a local fisherman. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2: Dambulla / Habarana Travel to Dambulla the hub of cultural triangle. Stop en-route at Yapahuwa to Explore the remains of one of Sri Lanka’s ancient capital cities. Check-in at the hotel and stay three nights. PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Colombo Ends: Colombo Grade: Easy – Adventurous

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Day 4: Polonnaruwa & Wildlife Today take an excursion to the ruins of Polonnaruwa and witness a collection of rich architecture, extraordinary ancient irrigation methods and huge man-made reservoirs. Afternoon enjoy jeep safari to see herd of wild elephants and various wildlife at Minneriya national park.

Day 5: Kandy

Entrance fees and tickets

After breakfast travel to Kandy en-route visiting the Sigiriya with option to climb rock fortress. Later visit Cave temples of Dambulla and a spice garden in Matale. Finish your evening with Kandyan cultural dance performance and stay two nights.

Catamaran ride

Day 6: Elephant Orphanage

Jeep safari at National Park

Enjoy an excursion to Elephant Orphanage in Pinnawela to witness the bathing and bottle feeding of baby elephants. Afternoon city sightseeing tour of Kandy and visit to the Arts and Craft workshops, Batik

Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver guide Meals as specified

Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

What our clients say:

“Very good and knowledgeable driver, our hotels was wonderful, also loved trekking. Want to say we love the tour and thank you.” – Jose Thompson, Australia

PER PERSON (AU$) 16 Sep 14 – 15 Sep 15

Manufactures and the much revered temple of the tooth relic of lord Buddha.

Day 7: Nuwara Eliya Visit the Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya before travelling to Nuwara Eliya. Visit a Tea Plantation and Factory to witness the complete process of turning raw green leaf into the finished product.

Day 8: Trek to Worlds End Leave early morning to Horton Plains for a trek (2-3 hrs) to Worlds End and witness nature at its best. Afternoon is free to relax or explore this small town.

Day 9: Bentota / Beruwala Today travel to beach resort, rest of the day is free to relax and stay two nights at beach resort.

Day 10: Galle Excursion After breakfast enjoy an excursion to Galle, known to be the famous Tarshish of the Bible and the Port where the Portuguese first landed in Sri Lanka. Explore the bazaar for local hand-crafted souvenirs.

Day 11: Colombo Departure Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before travelling back to Colombo. Tour finishes by late afternoon with direct transfer to the International airport.

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

$1847 / $2987

$2179 / $3520

$2523 / $4024

*During festival and New Year surcharge may apply.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 53

Dambulla cave temple

SRI LANKA

Top Seller

Panoramic Lanka

Stilt fishermen

12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

2189.00

Marco Polo considered Sri Lanka “the finest island of its size in the world”. We invite you to explore this superb destination, visiting the ancient cities and UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya and Dambulla. Relive the days of the British Raj in the evocative hill station of Nuwara Eliya, set in wonderful mountain scenery amidst tea plantations. Also be one of the first to visit the eastern coast at Trincomalee. This splendid itinerary includes some easy trekking and nature safaris and offers an excellent all-round introduction to Sri Lanka.

Day 1: Arrive Colombo Meet and assistance on arrival at the airport by tour executive and transfer to hotel for overnight stay.

Day 2: Dambulla / Habarana Travel this morning to Anuradhapura an ancient mighty Sinhalese Kingdom and explore the ruins which is a UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Stay two nights.

Day 3: Wildlife & Polonnaruwa In the morning take a jeep safari around the spectacular Minneriya National Park. In the afternoon visit Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital of Sri Lanka. Enjoy Habarana lake excursion in the evening with a local fishman. PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Colombo Ends: Colombo Grade: Easy Paced

Day 4: Trincomalee Enjoy an early morning easy walk (2½ hours) around the small villages to see the daily life of farmers. The guided walk goes along side Hiriwaduna Lake giving chance to spot birds and land monitors. Cross a little jungle rivulet by catamaran and reach a farmers simple “wattle and daub” house to enjoy your packed breakfast with tea. Enjoy a bullock cart ride through paddy field and village before traveling by car to Trincomalee.

Nature walk through village Bullock cart ride Jeep safari at the National Park Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes 54 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Leave Nuwara Eliya this morning, traversing the high misty plateaus of Horton Plains to Yala National Park. Evening free to explore. Go for a morning wildlife safari at Yala National Park to spot vast verities of wild animal, birds and reptiles including leopard, elephants, langurs and crocodiles. Afternoon is free to relax or enjoy a long walk.

Day 11: Colombo

Day 6: Kandy

Return to Colombo. Visit en-route Galle on the Southern Beach Resort, the Dutch Colonial Building and UNESCO Galle Fort. Overnight stay in Colombo.

Day 7: Kandy

Catamaran ride

Day 9: Tissamaharama / Yala

The day is at leisure to enjoy the beautiful white sandy beaches at Trincomalee. For those wishing to do further sightseeing there is the option of a half day tour to visit Fort Frederick, Kanniyai Hot Wells and Lovers Leap.

Private air-conditioned car with driver guide Entrance fees and tickets

Enjoy drive through the mountains, and tea gardens to Nuwara Eliya. En-route visit tea plantation for an interesting demonstration of the preparation and sorting processes.

Day 10: Wildlife Safari

Hotel accommodation with private facilities Meals as specified

Day 8: Nuwara Eliya

Day 5: Trincomalee

Today travel to Kandy, stopping en-route at Sigiriya rock fortress and the magnificent 2nd century BC cave temples of Dambulla. Stay two nights at Kandy.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

and the fascinating Temple of the Tooth Relic. Evening is free to explore the city.

Enjoy an excursion to elephant orphanage at Pinnewala. In the afternoon enjoy city tour and visit Market Square, Botanical Gardens PER PERSON (AU$) 16 Sep 14 – 15 Sep 15

Day 12: Colombo Departure After leisurely breakfast tour finishes with direct transfer to the international airport.

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

$2189 / $3506

$2573 / $4081

$2867 / $4494

*During festival and New Year surcharge may apply.

SRI LANKA

Golfer's Choice

Golf, Beach & Wildlife of Lanka

12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

2833.00

In this tour you will visit cultural triangle of the country including temples, tea garden, caves as well as National Park for wildlife safari. Not to mentions highlight of this tour is to give you a chance to play golf in some of the most beautiful golf courses in the country.

Day 1: Arrive Colombo

Day 4: Habarana/Dambulla

Day 8: Nuwara Eliya

On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel in Colombo for two nights stay.

Enjoy an excursion to UNESCO World Heritage site of Polonnaruwa. It comprises the Brahmanic monuments built by the South Indian Cholas, and the ruins of the fabulous garden-city created by Parakramabahu I during the golden age of the city between 11th & 12th century. Later enjoy jeep safari at Minneriya National Park to see many wildlife species of birds, reptiles, animals and especially for herds of elephants.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and get ready for a Tea Garden Tour. The tea industry in Sri Lanka (Ceylon) is over 150 years old and vestiges of the Colonial heritage are still evident, particularly in the tea growing regions. Tea experts will show you around the tea gardens, before entering to the tea factory to witness full processing from green leaf to different tea grading. Sharpen your tea tasting skills before returning back to hotel. Evening free to explore the town or go for another round of golf.

Day 2: Colombo After breakfast transfer for a round of golf at the Royal Colombo Golf Club situated nearby. Built in 1879 this course is a green oasis accompanied by a clubhouse of colonial charm. This prestigious course is a good introduction to golf in Sri Lanka. Evening free to explore the town.

Day 3: Habarana/Dambulla Travel to Kandy, en-route visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage which was started in 1975 to house abandoned and wounded elephants. This orphanage is now a home for many elephants. Visits are normally done during feeding and bathing time to give you opportunity to be up close. Continue travel and visit the World Heritage site of Dambulla Caves dating back to the 2nd century BC. Stay two nights at hotel.

Day 5: Kandy Travel to Kandy, en-route visit the 5th century old Sigiriya Rock Fortress. If you are up for an adventure than must climb this fortress to see spectacular 360 degree view, the mirrors walls for frescoes of the king’s concubines and remains of palace build by king on top of this rock. Also visit Matale Spice growing region en-route for special insight to some unique Sri Lankan agriculture. Evening we witness a Kandiyan dance performance. Stay two nights in Kandy.

PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR

Day 6: Kandy

Departs daily

Private air-conditioned car with driver guide

After breakfast transfer to Victoria Golf and Country Resort, voted ‘Best Golf Course in Asia by Golf Digest, this is a 18-hole golf course with putting green and practice range, Pro shop and PGA golf academy. Evening enjoy drive around Kandy Lake and explore the town, bazaar and the sacred temple of the Tooth Relic.

Meals as specified

Day 7: Kandy - Nuwara Eliya

Starts: Colombo Ends: Colombo Grade: Easy Paced

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities

Entrance fees and tickets Golf course entrance fee Visit to Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage 01 jeep safari at Minneriya 01 jeep safari at Yala A bottle of mineral water while travelling Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes Note: Entry to Golf Courses will be denied if you are not in proper dress code.

Journey to Nuwara Eliya which was made into a summer retreat by the British in the early 1800s and much of its colonial character still remains. Evening enjoy a round of golf in Nuwara Eliya Golf Club giving you feel of Victorian city. Stay two nights at Hotel. PER PERSON (AU$) 16 Sep 14 – 15 Sep 15

Day 9: Nuwara Eliya - Yala Today after breakfast travel to Yala. Enroute visit Rawana falls. The stream, a tributary of Kirindi Oya plunges with a foaming spray over a series of ledges into the valley close to a road bend. Evening free to relax or explore nearby small town.

Day 10: Yala - Bentota An early morning start with packed breakfast to enjoy wildlife safari in Yala National Park. Today will be your best chance to see a leopard first thing in the morning. Young male leopards in particular seem to have no fear of the jeep, which can lead to excellent photographic opportunities. National Park is also home to spotted deer, sambar, wild boar, wild buffaloes, sloth bear, jackal and mongoose. Afternoon travel to Bentota, a famous beach resort and stay two nights.

Day 11: Bentota

Enjoy your leisurely breakfast and relax at the beach.

Day 12: Bentota - Colombo After leisurely breakfast checkout by mid day and travel back to Colombo. Transfer to international airport where you board your onward flight.

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

$2833 / $4348

$3177 / $4844

*During festival and New Year surcharge may apply.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 55

SRI LANKA

Jetwing Lighthouse

Galle

Heritance Kandalama

Kandy House

Premium on Collecti

The Architectural Gem of Geoffrey Bawa

11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

2860.00

Few countries can point to such an influential figure in the development of a stylish and successful tourist sector than can Sri Lanka with Geoffrey Bawa. Bawa was responsible for linking Sri Lanka’s ancient and modern architecture. He had a deep understanding of the country’s cultural heritage – from the ancient kingdoms of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, to the influences of the Portuguese and Dutch periods – and his travels worldwide also ensured an appreciation of more contemporary styles. This specialist holiday has been put together to enable those interested in architectural design to experience the works of Bawa, as well as this island’s ancient architectural heritage and natural landscapes that influenced his creations.

Day 1: Arrive Colombo - Wallawwa Upon arriving in Sri Lanka, transfer to the Wallawwa in Kotugoda, a boutique colonialstyle bungalow just 15 minutes away from the International Airport. Relax after your long journey and immerse yourself in a rejuvenating massage at the Z Spa.

Day 2&3: Wallawwa - Dambulla Travel to Dambulla where you will experience your first Geoffrey Bawa creation: Heritance Kandalama. Bawa conceived the hotel `as an austere jungle palace’ located on the bund of an ancient 3rd century tank (reservoir) and captures the surrounding magical views from every angle. Kandalama is a naturalist’s dream hidden within the edge of a jungle filled with numerous species of birds, butterflies and plenty of monkeys. During the next two days, you will also experience Sri Lanka's ancient architectural heritage – ruins of cities, palaces and temples built by kings of the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa periods dating back to the

3rd century BC. In Dambulla, visit the ancient Buddhist cave temples and the Sigiriya Rock fortress. You also have the option of visiting Aukana, where the Buddha stands 42 feet high, the best-preserved statue in Sri Lanka. If you wish, climb 1,840 steps, high above the palm trees, with the pilgrims to the summit of Mihantale rock. Thereafter, visit the fabulous 'Mahakanadarawa' stone bridge, which dates back to the 7th century and is situated in the midst of the forest.

Day 4&5: Dambulla - Kandy The journey from the cultural triangle to Sri Lanka's hill capital, the small lakeside city of Kandy, will occupy most of the morning. In the afternoon, a city tour includes the fabulous Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya and the Temple of the Tooth where a sacred tooth relic of the Lord Buddha is enshrined since 4th Century AD. We recommend spending two nights at the Kandy House, a small boutique hotel located in the outskirts of the city.

Day 6&7: Kandy - Galle PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Colombo Ends: Colombo Grade: Easy Paced

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private air-conditioned car with driver guide Meals as specified Entrance fees and monument charges A bottle of mineral water while travelling Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes 56 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Travel along the coast to Galle where you will stay overnight at the Lighthouse. Enroute you will pass several of Geoffrey Bawa’s creations including Ruhuna University in Matara, an inspiring creation by Bawa built between two hills. In the evening we will visit the Galle’s 17th century fort – a UNESCO protected World Heritage Site. Another highlight of Galle is the Dutch Reformed Church built by a Dutch Army officer at the site of a previous Portuguese church. We stay overnight at the Lighthouse Hotel designed by Geoffrey Bawa in 1994. This elegant boutique hotel is located on a rocky headland overlooking the Indian Ocean. Lighthouse Hotel, like Kandalama, demonstrates Bawa’s skill at

integrating architecture and landscape, and his stenographic manipulation of space.

Day 8&9: Galle -Bentota Travel along the coast to Bentota where you will stay two nights at Lunuganga, a garden retreat that was originally an old rubber plantation that Geoffrey Bawa transformed into a haven of peace. Continuing further south west you reach Bentota. We visit the temple of Galapata Vihara dating from the 12th Century. It is said to have been built by Parakramabahu the Great, who also built the city of Polonnaruwa. Also visit the turtle hatcheries. Once at Lunuganga, you will have an opportunity to experience Bawa’s personal space. The Lunuganga gardens were a lifelong project cherished by Bawa and designed with numerous varieties of foliage, many pavilions and statues.

Day 10: Bentota - Colombo Today you head back to Colombo for your final night where you will be staying at Tintagel – a luxurious boutique hotel housed in one of Sri Lanka’s most famous ancestral residences belonging to the family of Sri Lanka’s former president. The hotel is a short ride away from several public buildings designed by Geoffrey Bawa including Sri Lanka’s parliament building in Kotte.

Day 11: Colombo Departure After breakfast the tour finish with transfer to the airport to board your onward flight home. PER PERSON (AU$)

PREMIUM LUXURY Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Sep 15

$2860 / $4971

*During festival and new year surcharge may apply.

Sri Lanka Add-ons Add-On one or two options to your tour of choice, or string together as many as you wish to create a customised holiday.

Art of Tea Plucking and Blending Flavours of Lanka Village COOKING CLASS

FROM AU$

67.00

Duration: 4-5hrs From: Habarana/Dambulla Sri Lankan cuisine is bound with their history of traders, immigrants and colonisers thus offering a rich, distinctive mix. Aside from Arab and Indian influenced breads and the ubiquitous street food, the Sri Lankan staple is simply “rice and curry”. More interesting than it sounds, as the curry part is at least 3 and anything up to 8 dishes in a meal, along with condiments and makes full use of the island’s range of vegetables, herbs and spices. The class takes the form of a trip to the local market to walk through and buy the ingredients. Back to base to cook a meal (2-3 dishes) in pairs. Enjoy the effort of your endeavors by eating the rice and curry feast you’ve prepared. WHAT’S INCLUDED? Visit to local market, cooking class with lunch at local village family house, all ingredients and utensils for cooking

85.00

Duration: 4-5hrs From: Nuwara Eliya Wake up early and enjoy a freshly brewed Ceylon tea and leave for the tea garden to join the early crowd of tea pluckers. The plucking time of the tea leaves plays a crucial role when creating the finest teas. The leaves should be plucked before sunrise when the natural fragrance is at its peak. After a brief introduction on the technique of tea plucking you will be provided with local attire and a basket to collect your leaves. Collect as many leaves within two hours and then proceed towards the tea factory to learn about the process and blending of the tea. It starts with the selection of the tea leaves from your basket rejecting any leaves that are unsuitable, hence you must pay attention when picking, or all your efforts will be in vain! The factory manager will then take you on a tour of the mini Tea Factory and explain the whole process, from the initial drying (withering) of the leaves, through rolling, fermenting and sifting, to produce the different types of tea. WHAT’S INCLUDED? Visit to a tea garden, instructions for plucking tea, tour of a tea factory to learn about the various process till they turn to finish product

Hiriwaduna Chena Village Experience

FROM AU$

Elephant Riding License

.00

Duration: 3-4hrs From: Habarana/Dambulla Start around 7am with your packed breakfast and transfer to a place where you begin this tour of a classic Sri Lankan village. This walk mainly goes through a lake where you could see fishermen waiting for their catch of the day in the lake. Visit a village home and enjoy your packed breakfast along with local Ceylon Tea and see their traditional Cattle Farm. It is then time to experience an ancient mode of transportation mounted on a Bullock cart, as you plot your way through the winding country roads. Witness the green rice fields as you approach the village and a Chena cultivation you will stop to enjoy the farmer’s humble hospitality.

FROM AU$

76.00

Duration: 4-5hrs From: Habarana/Dambulla A fantastic chance to get to know the real professional mahouts - find out what they do everyday for their elephants and learn the secrets of becoming a mahout. Basic Mahout training course begins with an introduction on elephant health and biology as well as elephant body language before starting the “Hands on Practice”. After briefing you will ride an elephant and be taught few commands and receive obedience from the elephants. Then step into the close by river/reservoir and bathe the elephants in the traditional manner of mahouts before receiving their “License”.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Experience local guide during tour, Chena farm and village visit, catamaran ride, bullock cart ride and hospitality of a local farmer.

Basic training, elephant ride, health care and bathing of elephant, Mahout Certificate

Package prices featured above are on per person based on minimum two people doing the tour.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 57

Nepal A World of it’s Own Welcome to the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal. A fantastic blend of ancient history, vibrant cultures and scenic grandeur draped along the greatest heights of the Himalayas, the Kingdom of Nepal is a land of eternal fascination, a place where one visit is rarely enough. It is in fact a country of amazing extremes, a mixture of ethnic diversity, a combination of eternal snow and tropical south blended with a perfection of architecture, arts and crafts. Nepal offers an astonishing topographical variation with altitudes ranging from 70m to 8,848m over a span of just 193km. Partly because of this; Nepal boasts climates ranging from alpine to temperate to tropical and all kinds of flora from tundra-like vegetation to desert-type cactuses to rainforest. Fauna from prairie dog-like Marmot to snow leopard to

dolphin habitate in Nepal. All kinds of geo-features ranging from the steppes to countless rivers to lakes, valleys and hills, to mountains, plains, jungles, marshland and grassland, not to mention hundreds of rivers, glacial lakes, and creeks all with their common origin in the Himalayas. Over 70 ethnic groups, each with their own unique culture and language, spread out across the length and breadth mostly in hamlets, villages and shantytowns. All you need to enjoy all this is a pair of strong legs, and the spirit of adventure. You can see life, virtually unchanged from hundreds of years ago, unfolding before your eyes as you journey into the heart of the Himalayas. Experience Nepal at its best with our team of professionals.

Climate and Weather in Nepal Nowhere in the world is the climate so distinct and poles apart. The long stretch of the northern frontier, which is mostly rugged terrain, towered by the mighty Himalayas experiences arctic climate and a few hours down south at the fringes of the Indian borderlands the landscape and climate changes dramatically as the elevation decreases. With lush green tropical forests and vast stretches of plains one can encounter hot humid climate.

Simikot Mugu Dandeldhura

Jumla

Mustang Jomson

Dhangarhi Saylan Nepalganj

Dhaulagiri

Annapurna Manaslu

Pokhara Gurkha Kodari

Baglung

Butwal

KATHMANDU

Mt Everest

Namche Bazar

Kangchenjunga

Sindhuli Garhi Biranj Janakpur

Dharan

Ilam

Biratnagar

The year is divided into four seasons – winter, spring, monsoon and autumn. The best period to visit the country for plant lovers is during spring when the flowers are in full bloom and the mountain slopes are covered with beautiful and colorful blossoms. The spring season commences from early March and continues until late May. Even though the days are clear, haze disturbs the mountain views. Late May, and the downpour begins. It continues till late August. Come in September and the autumn season begins. It continues till late November. With temperate climate, clear blue skies and extraordinary mountain views it is the best season to visit the country. Winter begins in late November and continues till late February.

Average Temperature (for guidance only) CITY Kathmandu

Temp. max ºc Min ºc

58 www.totalholidayoptions.com

JAN 19 2

FEB 20 4

MAR 25 8

APR 30 11

MAY 30 16

JUN 30 20

JUL 20 21

AUG 29 20

SEP 27 19

OCT 23 15

NOV 23 4

DEC 20 2

Hotel, Transfer and Sightseeing Options

Kathmandu & Pokhara All airport transfers is accompanied by THO Tour Executive and private air-conditioned car with driver:  Kathmandu: TWIN AU$: 29.00

Hotel Himalaya

Hotel Himalaya is distinguished by its 180 degree panoramic views of the majestic Himalayas, an intimate sense of luxury and an address near the business district Kathmandu. It is close to the Patan Durbar Square, the ancient palace of the Malla Kings and a World Heritage Site.

Hotel Shankar

Kathmandu

Fish Tail Lodge

Pokhara

TWIN AU$

FROM AU$

89.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes) Property Features: Restaurants, service, swimming pool, laundry

room

Room Features: Phone, TV, mini fridge, hairdryer, internet

FROM AU$

127.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes) Property Features: Restaurants, room service, bar, swimming pool, business centre, fitness centre, laundry Room Features: Tea/coffee maker, phone, TV, mini bar, hairdryer, work station, internet

FROM AU$

118.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes) Property Features: Restaurants, swimming pool, room service, safe deposit, laundry Room Features: Phone, TV, mini bar, work station

Mt Everest Flight

Join us on a tour of Kathmandu City, which includes Durbar Square and the Taleju Temple with its gilded roofs, the present temple was restored by King Mahendra Malla in 1562. We also see the Temple of the Living Goddess ‘Kumari’, the Pashupatinath Temple and the Boudhanath Stupa, the world centre of Tibetan Buddhism. Altogether 108 Buddha images and 147 insets of prayer wheels adorn the base of the huge circular edifice Departs: Daily 9.30am Duration: Full day (7 hours)

room

Room Features: Phone, TV, mini bar, hairdryer, in-room safe, internet



Situated on a peninsula with the Fewa Lake on one side and a forest covered hill on the other, the Fish Tail Lodge offers spectacular views of the Annapurna ranges and the ‘Fish Tail’ mountain. Guests are greeted by lush gardens and unique round bungalows.

Kathmandu City Tour

Property Features: Restaurants, service, bar, swimming pool, laundry



Hotel Yak & Yeti is a premier hotel located in the heart of Kathmandu. It continues to be one of the city’s leading luxury business and leisure hotels and though it boasts modern décor and facilities, the traditional Nepali architectural features have been preserved.

87.00

(includes daily breakfast and taxes)



The Shanker Hotel is a 100 year old palace, situated in the heart of Kathmandu and just 5 minutes walk from the city’s hub ‘Thamel’. This palatial Heritage hotel was once owned by the grandfather of Her Majesty of Nepal.

Hotel Yak & Yeti

FROM AU$



Kathmandu

112.00

This wonderful experience offers views of not only Mt Everest but almost the entire Himalayan panorama. Very few experiences can compare with the close encounter with the famed mountains of the Nepalese Himalayas. A breathtaking experience! Departs: Daily September – May (weather permitting) FROM AU$

295.00

Hotel prices featured in the brochure are on low season, per person based on two people sharing a base category room. Please contact us or your agent for any special offer.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 59

NEPAL

Kathmandu & Wildlife PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR

Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu

Starts/Ends: Kathmandu

Meet and assistance provided on arrival at the airport by your tour manager and transfer to hotel for an overnight stay.

Grade: Easy – Moderate

Day 2: Kathmandu - Chitwan

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

After breakfast travel to Chitwan and explore the village. Stay two nights at Chitwan.

Hotel accommodation with private facilities

Day 3: Chitwan National Park

Private car with driver

Morning enjoy wildlife safari on the back of an elephant and afternoon walk around the nearby village to witness daily life of locals.

Departs daily

Meals as specified Local Private English speaking guide Entrance fees and tickets Wildlife safari on the back of an elephant Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

Day 4: Chitwan - Kathmandu

Meals as specified Local private English speaking guide Entrance fees and tickets Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

60 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Morning enjoy an excursion to Patan and Bhaktapur to witness a treasure of ancient Newari architecture and arts. Later visit the 5th century old Pashupatinath temple, one of the largest Baudhanath stupa and and Durbar Square. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 6: Kathmandu Departure After breakfast tour finish with a transfer to the airport.

Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Sep 15

$887 / $1859

$1023 / $1914

Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu

Day 2: Bhaktapur Excursion

Private car with driver

Day 5: Kathmandu

From Kathmandu

Grade: Easy – Adventurous

Hotel accommodation with private facilities

the panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges. Stay two nights in Kathmandu.

DELUXE

Starts/Ends: Kathmandu

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

887.00

PER PERSON (AU$)

On arrival at the airport, meet your tour manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two nights stay at Kathmandu.

Departs daily

FROM AU$

After breakfast travel to Kathmandu enjoying

Kathmandu & Hiking PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR

6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS

5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS

LUXURY

FROM AU$

767.00

mountains. Experience a magnificent sunset and stay overnight at Nagarkot.

Day 4: Hike to Sankhu

Enjoy a city sightseeing tour, visit Boudhanath, Pashupatinath and Bhaktapur, the ancient city housing unique culture, tradition, arts and craftsmanship.

Wake up early in the morning to enjoy a magnificent sunrise over the Himalayan ranges. After breakfast set off for hiking in Sankhu and witness a rich culture and heart-stopping scenery. Later return back to Kathmandu for an overnight stay.

Day 3: Nagarkot

Day 5: Kathmandu Departure

Visit Stupa of Swayambhunath before travelling to Nagarkot. Enjoy a scenic drive and savour the breathtaking view of the

After breakfast the tour will finish with a transfer to the airport.

PER PERSON (AU$)

DELUXE

LUXURY

From Kathmandu

Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Sep 15

$767 / $1414

$880 / $1620

NEPAL

Pokhara Lake

Nepal Delight Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu Meet and assistance on arrival at the airport by your tour manager and transfer to hotel for an overnight stay.

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

Day 2: Kathmandu - Chitwan

PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR

Travel by road to Chitwan National Park famous for endangered one-horned Rhino, Tiger and many wildlife species of birds, animal and reptiles. Stay two nights at Chitwan.

Departs daily

Day 3: Chitwan National Park

Starts/Ends: Kathmandu Grade: Easy – Moderate

Morning enjoy wildlife safari on the back of an elephant and afternoon walk around the nearby village to witness daily life of locals.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Day 4: Chitwan - Pokhara

Hotel accommodation with private facilities

Experience scenic ride to Pokhara and relax at the hotel or take a walk to the Lake. Stay two nights at Pokhara.

Private air-conditioned car with driver Meals as specified Local private English speaking guide Entrance fees and tickets

Day 5: Pokhara Visit Mahendra Gupha Cave, The Devil’s Fall at the gorge of the Seti River, Tibetan refugee

FROM AU$

1196.00

camp and enjoy boat a ride to witness the majestic sight of snow-capped mountain peaks and exquisite beauty.

Day 6: Pokhara - Kathmandu Today travel back to Kathmandu and check into Hotel. Later proceed for sightseeing tour of Swoyambhunath Stupa. Also visit Chobhar and Kirtipur. After visit return back to Kathmandu for overnight stay.

Day 7: Kathmandu After breakfast visit Patan Darbar square and Boudhanath stupa, After visit return back to Kathmandu for overnight stay.

Day 8: Kathmandu Departure After leisurely breakfast, tour finishes with transfer to the airport.

Wildlife safari on the back of an elephant Boat ride at Pokhra

PER PERSON (AU$)

DELUXE

LUXURY

Assistance and transfers

From Kathmandu

Twin/Single

All current collectable taxes

16 Sep 14 – 15 Sep 15

$1196 / $2192

$1489 / $2574

Pokhara Lake

Essential Kathmandu PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts/Ends: Kathmandu Grade: Easy Paced

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private car with driver Meals as specified

Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu On arrival at the airport, meet your tour manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon visit Pashupathinath Temple; the Temple of Lord Shiva situated on the bank of the Holy Bagmati River and the Boudhanath Stupa; an ancient colossal stupa and the centre of Tibetan Buddhism in the world (time permitting). In the evening you will have a welcome dinner at a Nepali restaurant featuring a cultural program.

3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

333.00

Day 2: Kathmandu Valley Today after breakfast, you have a full day sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu Valley including the cities of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur to witness medieval art and architecture.

Day 3: Kathmandu After breakfast the tour finishes with a transfer to the airport.

Local private English speaking guide Entrance fees and tickets Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes

Prefer to travel with a group?

Take a look at our Small Group Journeys beginning at page 72. www.totalholidayoptions.com 61

Bhutan The country is known to the world by several names, “the Last Shangri-La” to some and to others, “the Last Place on the Roof of the World”. Its a tiny remote Himalayan Kingdom where buying cigarettes is illegal, where rice is red, where chillies is just not a spice to be added to the food but an entire dish in itself, where

men still wear tunics to work and where the prosperity of the nation is measured by Gross National Happiness of its people and not the gross national product. Whether you are a cultural seeker, trekker or simply a nature lover, Bhutan will lure you with a charm and magic, like nowhere else in the world.

Best Season to Visit Bhutan Bhutan has four seasons in a year; Winter from December until February, Spring from March to May, Summer from June to August and Autumn from September until November. Though it is possible to visit Bhutan throughout the year, the best seasons to visit Bhutan are in Spring and Autumn. During these months of the year, Bhutan

has not only favorable and pleasant climatic conditions but also has lot of ongoing festivals and events within the country. We suggest you to plan your visit to Bhutan in advance since its accessibility through air are limited.

Average Temperature (for guidance only) CITY Thimphu

Temp. max ºc

62 www.totalholidayoptions.com

JAN 10

FEB 13

MAR 14

APR 17

MAY 23

JUN 25

JUL 26

AUG 25

SEP 23

OCT 18

NOV 14

DEC 11

BHUTAN

Best of Bhutan PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Paro Ends: Paro Grade: Easy – Adventurous

5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS

Day 1: Arrive Paro - Thimphu The flight into Bhutan offers dazzling scenic views of Himalaya. On arrival at the airport, meet your tour manager who will assist you to transfer to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, for two nights stay.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Day 2: Thimphu

Hotel accommodation with private facilities Meals as specified

Take a full day sightseeing tour of the valley and visit Changangkha Monastery, Drupthob Nunnery Temple, Tashichho Dzong and the local market.

Local private English speaking guide

Day 3: Thimphu - Punakha

Entrance fees and tickets

Leave Thimphu valley and travel to Dochula pass at an altitude of 3140m, stopping enroute to visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in Bhutan. Later visit Punakha’s Dzong and stay overnight at the hotel.

Private car with driver

Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes Bhutan Entry Visa and government royalty

Land of Dragons PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Paro Ends: Paro Grade: Moderate – Adventurous

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private car with driver Meals as specified Local private English speaking guide Entrance fees and tickets Assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes Bhutan Entry Visa and government royalty

FROM AU$

Day 4: Punakha - Paro Travel to Paro and visit Drugyel Dzong, TaDzong and explore local culture and history. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Day 5: Paro Departure After breakfast the tour will finish with a transfer to the airport.

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

Day 2: Thimphu

Take a full day sightseeing tour of the valley and visit Changangkha Monastery, Drupthob Nunnery Temple, Tashichho Dzong and the local market.

Day 3: Thimphu - Trongsa After an early breakfast, take a scenic drive through streams, forests and small villages before crossing the Pele la Pass. In the evening explore the town and stay overnight at Trongsa.

Day 4: Trongsa - Bumthang Travel to Bumthang and visit Wangdicholing, Jakar Dzong, Kurjey and Tamshing monasteries. Enjoy refreshments at the

1797.00

FROM AU$

3058.00

Swiss Farm House famous for it’s cheese and beer factory. Stay overnight at Bumthang.

Day 5: Bumthang - Punakha Explore the valley and travel to Punakha. Visit Punakha Dzong Fortress and Simtokha Dzong which now serves as a Buddhist university. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Day 6: Punakha - Paro Enjoy sightseeing around the Paro Valley and visit Ta Dzong which houses the National Museum, the ruins of Drugyel Dzong and the courtyard of 7th century Kichu Lhakhang. Stay two nights at the hotel.

Day 7: Paro

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and explore the town and valley.

Day 8: Paro Departure After breakfast the tour finishes with a transfer to Paro Airport.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 63

Myanmar Myanmar sits at the crossroads of Asia’s great civilisations of India and China, and looks out onto the vast Indian Ocean next to Thailand. One of South East Asia’s largest and most diverse countries, Myanmar stretches from the sparkling islands of the Andaman Sea in the south right up into the Eastern Himalayan mountain range. Being cut off from the rest of the world for so many decades, Myanmar has achieved a unique preservation of culture bounded by a rich, unspoilt landscape. Abundant in natural resources, the landscape of Myanmar ranks amongst the most breathtaking sights anywhere in the world. Each of the destinations within Myanmar; whether it be Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay or Inle Lake

have striking features differentiating Myanmar from any other destination within South East Asia. To put it simply, if you are interested in an untouched culture, beautiful architecture, witnessing an incredible mix of people and ethnic tribes, and want to see the ‘real’ Asia, give Myanmar a go. We’re confident that you’ll love it! A trip to Myanmar is more than a holiday; it’s an experience to be remembered forever. The true feeling one gets from visiting Myanmar was immortalized in the words or Rudyard Kipling and his famous quote: "This is Burma and it is unlike any land you know about.” Rudyard Kipling, Letters from the East (1898)

Climate and weather in Myanmar Myanmar’s climate can be described as tropical and quite uncomfortable. Though country can be divided in three seasons but year around average temperature ranges from 22 to 27 degrees. The winter and dry season, from October to March, summer and dry season from April to May monsoon start form June August.

Average Temperature (for guidance only) CITY Yangon

Temp. max ºc Temp. min ºc

64 www.totalholidayoptions.com

JAN 20 13

FEB 23 15

MAR 27 20

APR 31 25

MAY 31 26

JUN 29 26

JUL 29 26

AUG 29 25

SEP 28 25

OCT 27 23

NOV 24 20

DEC 21 15

Add-ons Add-On one or two options to your tour of choice, or string together as many as you wish to create your customised holiday. Following are some wonderful suggestions but if you cant find what you are looking for please contact us.

The Golden Rock

Ngapali Beach

2 DAYS / 1 NIGHT

FROM AU$

514.00

Morning pickup from your Yangon city hotel and travel to camp Kimpun to board the truck for an adventurous ride to reach the hermit’s hill. From here we continue our journey by walk to the top of the mountain where you can see the Golden Rock – a large boulder positioned well balanced on the cliff of the mountain – which seems to defy the force of gravity. After sunset transfer for overnight stay at hotel in Kyaikhtiyo. Sunrise visit to “Crow Beak” Cave and hunter’s hill before returning back to hotel for breakfast. Later walk down to Kimpun camp and board vehicle to start return journey to Yangon. En route visit Bago and Shwemawdaw Pagoda known to be built in 994 AD. Tour Concludes with direct transfer to your Yangon City Hotel.

4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

689.00

Arrive at Thandwe airport from Yangon, Bagan or Heho. On arrival transfer to the resort. Ngapali beach is at the western part of Rakhine State and stretches for 6km, overlooking the Indian Ocean. This beach town once use to have private bungalows, but now luxurious resorts and hotels are opened to cater to growing tourist number who wish to relax and enjoy the pristine sandy beach. Stay three nights on day four checkout in time transfer to Thandwe airport to board your onward flight. WHAT’S INCLUDED? 03 nights accommodation with breakfast and return airport transfer

WHAT’S INCLUDED? 01 night accommodation with breakfast, return travel by private car and shared mountain truck, entrance fees, local English speaking guide

Mt. Victoria Extension 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

Ayeyarwady River Cruise 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

Day 1: Arrive Bagan

2165

.00

Board the cruise and settle into your suite in time for lunch. Afternoon enjoy a sightseeing tour. Visit historical temples, pagodas and magnificent archaeological sites – the Ananda, the Htilominlo and the Pyathatgyi. Dinner and overnight on board.

Day 2: Cruise on board

Morning visit the bustling local market of Nyaung Market, sacred Buddhist Shwezigon Pagoda and lacquerware workshops of Myinkaba before returning as ship sail northwards to Sagaing.

Day 3: Cruise on board Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as the ship sails towards Ava, the ancient imperial capital. After lunch visit the monasteries and pagodas of Bagaya, Sagaing and Amarapura by horse and cart or coach. Take time to visit local silversmiths and textile workshops before heading to the U Bein Bridge for drinks at sunset. Enjoy the farewell dinner on the sandbank overlooking Mingun, followed by a performance.

Day 4: Mandalay

After breakfast disembark and tour finishes with transfer to airport. WHAT’S INCLUDED? 03 night on board cruise, meals as specified, transfer and sightseeing by coach, entrance fee, English speaking tour guide.

FROM AU$

1313.00

Day 1: Bagan - Kanaplet Morning pick from your hotel in Bagan and enjoy adventures jeep ride passing through small town rich with old and new oil fields, Seikphyu at the west bank of the Ayeyarwaddy river and beautiful forest ranges. Evening free to explore and stay overnight at Kanaplet.

Day 2: Kanaplet - Mt Victoria - Mindat Drive up to 9,000 ft high of the mountain followed by moderate walk through the savanna forests, winding narrow path and panoramic view to reach top of the mountain at 10500 ft. Enjoy beautiful view with picnic lunch before walking down to board your vehicle and drive to Mindat for two nights stay.

Day 3: Chin Village Excursion

After breakfast at local tea shop enjoy soft trekking to the nearby Chin village. Witness the entrance mark with achievements of the villagers and traditional Chin houses. Enjoy walking around the village and chat with villagers. Have your packed lunch at one of the local houses and afternoon return back to Mindat.

Day 4: Mindat-Bagan

After breakfast travel back to Bagan and tour finishes by late afternoon with direct transfer to your city hotel. WHAT’S INCLUDED? 03 nights accommodation in basic local guesthouse, meals as specified, travel and return transfer by jeep and local transport, entrance fee, English speaking tour guide.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 65

Farming, Lake Inle

Horse and cart, Bagan

R MYANMA

Glimpse of Myanmar Day 1: Arrive Yangon

On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel in Yangon. Afternoon visit the Chaukhtatgyi and enjoy sunset over golden stupa. Stay two nights in Yangon. PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Yangon Ends: Yangon Grade: Easy – Moderate

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private car with driver Meals as specified Local English speaking guides during sightseeing

7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS

Day 5: Bagan - Inle Lake

Morning visit Sule Pagoda in the heart of Yangon city and Botataung Paya. Spend afternoon exploring local Scott market. Enjoy dinner in Karaweik Palace serving local cuisine and beautiful view of Royal Lake.

Board your morning flight to Heho and enjoy drive to Nyaung Shwe. En-route visit wooden Shwe Yan Pyay and Nyaung Shwe before boarding a private motorboat to explore Inle Lake and its surrounding tribal village. Overnight in Inle Lake.

Day 3: Yangon - Bagan

Day 6: Inle Lake - Yangon

Morning fly to Bagan, visit Nyaung Oo Market and Wetkyi-In Gubyaukgyi cave temple. Afternoon visit New Bagan area and evening sunset boat ride on the Irrawaddy River. Stay two nights in Bagan.

Day 4: Bagan

Today visit market around the lake’s villages to witness surrounding hill tribes trading their goods. Boat through small canal to explore Pa-oh and In Dein village before boarding flight to Yangon for overnight stay.

Day 7: Yangon Departure

Enjoy a horse cart ride and explore other interesting sites nearby. Evening view sunset from the second highest pagoda in Bagan. PER PERSON (AU$)

After breakfast tour finishes with transfer to Yangon international airport where you board your onward flight.

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

$1970 / $2969

$2198 / $3432

$2698 / $4470

16 Apr 15 – 15 Sep 15

$1618 / $2627

$1948 / $3296

$2387 / $4125

Assistance and transfers

During festival, peak season and new year surcharge may apply

Culture & Cuisine of Myanmar Day 1: Arrive Yangon On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel in Yangon, enjoy city sightseeing tour with lunch at famous Tea Shop. Afternoon explore Yangon Riverside before dinner at China town. Overnight at Yangon. PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Yangon Ends: Yangon Grade: Easy – Moderate

Local English speaking guides during sightseeing Entrance fees Cooking class and culinary experience Economy class airfare Yangon – Bagan – Mandalay – Heho – Yangon Assistance and transfers 66 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Visit tribal markets around the lake’s villages, boat through small canal to village famous for its traditional tofu treats. Enjoy lunch at local restaurant and later visit boutique winery. Board afternoon flight to Yangon and stay overnight.

Today visit Nyaung Oo Market trading fresh produce used in local cuisine and learn to cook a few famous dishes at a local restaurant. Later visit local village and enjoy a home cooked lunch before visiting a handicraft workshop. Evening take a boat ride down the Irrawaddy River. Board morning flight to Mandalay, enjoy city sightseeing tour and stop for lunch at famous Tea house. Afternoon see the ‘World’s Biggest Book’ and finish your day with dinner. Stay overnight in Mandalay.

2297.00

Day 6: Inle Lake - Yangon

Day 3: Bagan

Day 4: Bagan - Mandalay

FROM AU$

enjoy drive to Nyaung Shwe. Explore Inle Lake and its surrounding villages by private motorboat. Enjoy cooking and lunch at local family house. Overnight in Inle Lake.

Morning board flight to Bagan and enjoy city sightseeing tour. After lunch at famous local restaurant explore Bagan by horse carriage. Stay two nights in Bagan.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Meals as specified

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

Day 2: Yangon - Bagan

Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private car with driver

1618.00

Day 2: Yangon

Entrance fees Economy class airfare Yangon – Bagan – Heho – Yangon

FROM AU$

Day 7: Yangon Visit market with your local chef to purchase fresh ingredients to be used in cooking. Enjoy a cooking class and lunch before starting your city sightseeing tour.

Day 8: Yangon Departure After breakfast tour finishes with transfer to Yangon international airport where you board your onward flight.

Day 5: Mandalay - Inle Lake Board your morning flight to Heho and PER PERSON (AU$)

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

$2571 / $3791

$2883 / $4421

$3455 / $5595

16 Apr 15 – 15 Sep 15

$2297 / $3486

$2598 / $4126

$3124 / $5287

During festival, peak season and new year surcharge may apply

Shwedagon Pagoda

Inle Lake MYANMAR

Highlights of Myanmar

9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

2148.00

This tour offers a gateway to experience the incredible Buddhist Pagodas, Local markets the great Inle Lake, leg-rowing fishermen, floating gardens and weaving village. In Amarapura we enjoy a walk on the 200 years old U Bein Bridge made out of teakwood.

Day 1: Arrive Yangon

On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel in Yangon, afternoon visit the Chaukhtatgyi, sacred Shwedagon Pagoda and enjoy sunset over golden stupa. Stay two nights in Yangon.

Day 2: Yangon Morning visit Sule Pagoda in the heart of Yangon city and Botataung Paya. Spend afternoon explore local Market also known as Scott market. Enjoy dinner in Karaweik Palace serving local cuisine and beautiful view of Royal Lake.

Board your morning flight to Heho . Upon reaching board a private motorboat to head out to Inle Lake, one of Myanmar’s most spectacular sights. Pass villages built on stilts over the lake, observe the leg-rowing fishermen and floating gardens built up from strips of water hyacinth and mud, anchored to the bottom with bamboo poles. Explore the local crafts of Inle Lake with a stop at the weaving village of Inpawkhone. Stay overnight in Inle Lake.

Starts: Yangon Ends: Yangon Grade: Easy – Moderate

Day 5: Mingun Excursion

Departs daily

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private car with driver Meals as specified Local English speaking guides during sightseeing Entrance fees Economy class airfare Yangon – Heho – Mandalay – Bagan – Yangon Assistance and transfers

Day 6: Mandalay - Bagan Morning travel to Sagaing, a 45-minute drive. Located across the Irrawaddy River, Sagaing is considered by many to be the Buddhist centre of Myanmar. Drive up to Sagaing Hill to Umin Thonzeh and discover 45 Buddha images. Then proceed to Swan Oo Pon Nya Shin pagoda and enjoy wonderful panoramic view of Sagaing Hill with hundreds of stupas. Before departing Amarapura we go to U Bein Bridge for a walk along the 200 year-old teak bridge. Later board flight to Bagan and stay two nights.

Day 4: Inle Lake - Mandalay Today visit market around the lake’s villages to witness surrounding hill tribes trading there goods. Boat through small canal to explore Pa-oh and In Dein village before boarding flight to Mandalay and stay two nights.

PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR

teachings. Later return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 3: Yangon - Inle Lake

Day 7: Bagan Morning we visit the Nyaung Oo Market where dozens of vendors come to sell their fresh produce and products. Next, visit Wetkyi-In Gubyaukgyi, a cave temple with exquisite jatakas mural paintings. Afternoon visit lacquer-ware workshops, evening enjoy a sunset cruise along the Irrawaddy River. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast we visit the Mingun Bell which weighs more than 87 tons and is more than 3.7 metres tall. Mingun’s other highlight is the Hisnbyume Pagoda, a white-washed temple built to resemble Mount Meru. Throughout Mingun there are small neighbourhoods crafting traditional basketry and other artistic items and there is plenty of time to stop and interact with the craftsmen and friendly locals. We also visit Kuthodaw Pagoda, home to ‘the world’s largest book’, a collection of more than 700 marble slabs inscribed with Buddhist

Day 8: Bagan - Yangon Morning free to relax or explore the town and local market before boarding afternoon flight to Yangon. Stay overnight in Yangon.

Day 9: Yangon Departure After breakfast tour finishes with direct transfer to Yangon international airport where you board your onward flight.

PER PERSON (AU$)

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

$2498 / $3885

$2897 / $4694

$3492 / $5920

16 Apr 15 – 15 Sep 15

$2148 / $2514

$2687 / $4346

$3382 / $5645

During festival, peak season and new year surcharge may apply

www.totalholidayoptions.com 67

Leg-rowing fisherman

Mt Popa

MYANMA

Family Fun in Myanmar

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

2046.00

With interesting transport methods and quirky destinations you’ll explore Yangon, Bagan, and Inle Lake. Visit the ‘spirit gods’ at Mount Popa, meet the locals, participate in a range of unique cultural activities, enjoy horse carriage ride, explore cave temples, feed giant fish in the temple ponds or jumping cats at the monastery. This itinerary specially prepared to make your family holiday full of fun and plenty of opportunities to create bound.

Day 1: Arrive Yangon

On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Executive who will assist you to transfer to the hotel in Yangon, afternoon visit enjoy city sightseeing, try local treats with ice cream and take boat ride down the Yangon river while enjoying drinks and sunset on board. Overnight in Yangon. PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR

Visit Shwedagon Pagoda complex offering interesting activates to excite adult and kids, explore colourful ‘monks market’ before feeding huge number of fish at Mahawizaya temple. Explore Scott Market; buy traditional sarong and Thanaka to dress for a family photo. Board afternoon flight to Inle Lake and motor boat ride to your hotel. Stay two nights in Inle Lake.

Departs daily

Day 3: Indein Excursion

Hotel accommodation with private facilities

Take a private motorboat ride, passing through floating garden and houses and witness leg-rowing fishermen. After lunch, explore the west side of the lake, visit a local school and Inthar Heritage House to see local culture and also Burmese cats.

Private car with driver

Day 4: Inle Lake - Bagan

Meals as specified

Morning visit tribal lake side market and walk around the village famous for local treats. Board afternoon flight to Bagan and stay two nights.

Starts: Yangon Ends: Yangon Grade: Easy – Moderate

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Local English speaking guides during sightseeing Entrance fees Economy class airfare Yangon – Heho – Bagan – Yangon Assistance and transfers

In the late afternoon hop onto a boat for a sunset cruise along the Irrawaddy River, parents can enjoy the views as children learn the traditional game of chinlone. Found only in Myanmar, this fun team sport also combines dance into its elements. Overnight in Bagan.

Day 2: Yangon - Inle Lake

Day 6: Bagan - Mt Popa Morning jump into a horse cart to explore Bagan and later travel to picturesque Popa Mountain. En-route visit a village to witness locals making a range of household products and have bit of fun riding oxen at the farm. Have your home cooked lunch before continuing to Mt Popa and stay overnight.

Day 7: Mt Popa - Yangon This morning after breakfast, visit the famous nat shrine of Mount Popa. The top offers great views of the area and on the way up there are strange and interesting statues, as well as a community of monkeys who live on the Mountain. Return to Bagan in the afternoon and fly on to Yangon. On arrival check into your hotel with rest of your evening is at leisure.

Day 5: Bagan Start the day with a morning trip to the busy market of Nyaung Oo and see local life as Bagan residents do their morning shopping. Later torches in hand, you’ll explore the cave temple of Kyan Sitthar, with its old paintings on the ceiling and tunnel-like corridors. Next, visit Ananda, filled with mysterious smiling Buddhas and Shwegugyi, which offers spectacular views from its upper terrace. PER PERSON (AU$)

Day 8: Yangon Departure After breakfast tour finishes with direct transfer to Yangon international airport to board your onward flight.

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

$2318 / $3566

$2621 / $4197

$3044 / $4997

16 Apr 15 – 15 Sep 15

$2046 / $3317

$2312 / $3887

$2848 / $4628

During festival, peak season and new year surcharge may apply

68 www.totalholidayoptions.com

U Bein Bridge

Inle Lake MYANMAR

Mystical Burma

11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

2598.00

You will discover the fascinating culture, cuisine and natural heritage of Myanmar. A country filled with surprise, intrigues and shared by friendly locals. Begin your tour in the quiet and compared to its neighbouring countries, relatively undeveloped city of Yangon. Explore the spectacular landmark, historical museum, vibrant culture, traditional villages, mountain, markets trading fresh produce and local handicraft while visiting must see and destinations of the country.

Day 1: Arrive Yangon

Day 3: Yangon - Bagan Visit Sagaing, Kaung Mu Daw and walk on to famous 200 years old teak U Bein Bridge to witness life of the locals living and farming. Evening board flight to Bagan and stay three nights. PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Yangon Ends: Yangon Grade: Easy – Moderate

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Hotel accommodation with private facilities Private car with driver Meals as specified Local English speaking guides during sightseeing Entrance fees Economy class airfare Yangon – Bagan – Mandalay – Heho – Yangon Assistance and transfers

wooden Shwe Yan Pyay and Nyaung Shwe before boarding a private motorboat to explore Inle Lake. Along the way witness local tribal villages built, leg-rowing fishermen, weaving village of Inpawkhone and a cheroot factory where the typical Burmese cigars are made. Stay two nights in Inle Lake.

Day 4: Bagan Enjoy horse cart ride and explore many interesting sites. Witness sunset from the second highest pagoda of Bagan.

Day 5: Mt Popa Excursion Travel to Mt Popa which played an important role in Myanmar culture, religion and history since earliest times. Visit sights and learn about nats and nat worship as you climb the stairs to the top with your local guide.

Day 9: Inle Lake Today visit market around the lake’s villages to witness surrounding hill tribes trading there goods. Boat through small canal to explore Pa-oh and Indein village. Explore the area on foot, strolling around the village, visiting a local school as well as beautiful Alaung Sitthou area.

Day 6: Bagan - Mandalay Morning board flight to Mandalay, enjoy excursion to Sagaing, Kaung Mu Daw and walk on to famous 200 years old teak U Bein Bridge to witness life of the locals living and farming. Evening board flight to Bagan and stay two nights.

Day 10: Inle Lake - Yangon Board morning flight to Yangon. Start your city tour at the post office, walk to Sule Paya in the middle of downtown, Mahabandoola Garden and Independence Monument along the way. Afternoon explore Little India and China town, a colourful cacophony of restaurants, temples and markets. Stay overnight in Yangon.

Day 7: Mingun Excursion Enjoy an excursion to Mingun and visit 17th century pagoda and world largest Bell weighing more than 87 tons. Explore village famous for traditional handicraft. Afternoon walk to Mandalay Hill or take local transport to enjoy panoramic view of the city and Kuthodaw Pagoda, home to ‘the world’s largest book’, a collection of more than 700 marble slabs inscribed with Buddhist teachings.

Day 11: Yangon Departure After breakfast tour finishes with direct transfer to Yangon international airport where you board your onward flight.

Day 8: Mandalay - Inle Lak Board your morning flight to Heho and enjoy drive to Nyaung Shwe. En-route visit PER PERSON (AU$)

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

$2896 / $4578

$3475 / $5759

$5346 / $6998

16 Apr 15 – 15 Sep 15

$2598 / $4262

$3195 / $5497

$5012 / $6715

During festival, peak season and new year surcharge may apply

www.totalholidayoptions.com 69

Umbrella making

Bagan

MYANMA

Grand Tour of Myanmar

15 DAYS / 14 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

3617.00

This tour takes you on a journey from Irrawaddy villages to Buddhist shrines, with diversions away from the main sites and into the heart of the country. So get ready to skim over jade lakes, amble on horse carriage through golden plains, and hustle through city streets in a rickshaw as you delve into one of the most astonishing countries in all of Asia.

Day 1: Arrive Yangon

Day 2: Yangon Morning visit Sule Pagoda in the heart of Yangon city, Botataung Paya for its dazzling corridor and a large pond full of hundreds of terrapin turtles. Spend afternoon exploring Bogyoke Aung San local Market also known as Scott market offering largest selection handicrafts and souvenirs. Buy some nice slippers and longyi, convenient for all the on-and-off demanded by paya protocol. Enjoy dinner in Karaweik Palace serving delicious local cuisine and beautiful view of Royal Lake.

Day 3: Yangon - Kyaikhtiyo Travel by road to Kyaikhtiyo, en-route visit Allied War Cemetery in Htaukkyan Township and visit the Golden Rock in afternoon. Stay overnight at Kyaikhtiyo.

Day 4: Kyaikhtiyo - Yangon After breakfast travel back to Yangon, enroute visit Bago to explore the village and sights as well as Shwemawdaw Pagoda PRIVATE CAR GUIDED TOUR Departs daily Starts: Yangon Ends: Yangon Grade: Easy – Moderate

known to be built in 994 AD. Stay overnight at Yangon.

Day 9: Mandalay - Bagan Visit Sagaing, located across the Irrawaddy River and considered as main Buddhist centre of the country. Later continue your visit to Umin Thonzeh, known for its 30 Caves Pagoda. Board afternoon flight to Bagan and stay two nights.

Day 5: Yangon - Inle Lake Board your morning flight to Heho and enjoy drive to Nyaung Shwe. En-route visit wooden Shwe Yan Pyay and Nyaung Shwe before boarding a private motorboat to explore Inle Lake. Along the way witness local tribal villages built, leg-rowing fishermen, weaving village of Inpawkhone and a cheroot factory where the typical Burmese cigars are made. Stay two nights in Inle Lake.

Day 10: Bagan Morning visit Nyaung Oo Market trading fresh produce, Wetkyi-In Gubyaukgyi cave temple and Htilominlo Temple. Afternoon visit New Bagan area and one of its many silk lacquer-ware handi craft workshops. Before concluding your day enjoy sunset boat ride on the Irrawaddy River and stay three nights in Bagan.

Day 6: Inle Lake Today visit market around the lake’s villages to witness surrounding hill tribes trading there goods. Boat through small canal to explore Pa-oh and Indein village. Explore the area on foot, strolling around the village, visiting a local school as well as beautiful Alaung Sitthou area.

Day 11: Bagan Enjoy horse cart ride and visit Nan Paya pagoda, Minkaba Gubyaukyi Temple, MyaZedi pagoda before heading to Manuha Temple and exploring many other interesting sites nearby. Conclude your day with witnessing sunset view from the second highest pagoda of Bagan.

Day 7: Inle Lake - Mandalay After leisure breakfast go for a scenic excursion to Kalaw, formerly a British Hill Station. Enjoy walking around village, local market and the tiny train station. On your return visit one of few local workshop making umbrellas and paper from the mulberry tree. Board your afternoon flight to Mandalay and stay two nights.

Day 12&13: Bagan - Ngapali Board your morning flight to Thandwe and transferred to Ngapali Beach. Beach is a quiet 3-kilometer stretch of white sands lined by coconut palms. Stay two nights in the Nagapali.

Day 8: Mingun & Amarapura Excursion

Day 14: Nagapali - Yangon

Enjoy an excursion to Mingun and visit 17th century pagoda and world largest Bell weighing more than 87 tons. Explore village famous for traditional handicraft. Afternoon walk to Mandalay Hill or take local transport to enjoy panoramic view of the city and Kuthodaw Pagoda, home to ‘the world’s largest book’ and walk on to famous 200 years old teak U Bein Bridge at Amrapura to witness life of the locals living and farming.

After relaxes breakfast board flight to Yangon. Afternoon explore Bogyoke Market to find handicrafts and evening visit Kandawgyi Park to dinner at one of many local restaurant. Stay overnight at Yangon.

Day 15: Yangon After breakfast tour finishes with direct transfer to Yangon international airport where you board your onward flight.

PER PERSON (AU$)

COMFORT

DELUXE

LUXURY

Twin/Single

16 Sep 14 – 15 Apr 15

$3998 / $6362

$4555 / $7418

$5679 / $9644

16 Apr 15 – 15 Sep 15

$3617 / $6021

$4212 / $7126

$5314 / $9318

During festival, peak season and new year surcharge may apply

70 www.totalholidayoptions.com

MYANMAR

Myanmar Luxury River Cruise

For more cruise option in Myanmar, departure dates and up-to-date pricing please contact us

There is no better way to visit Myanmar than taking a "boutique" cruise on the Irrawaddy River. The River has witnessed the history of Myanmar and gave it life to the people living in surrounding area. On its banks are located the “must see” highlights of the Golden Land. RV Pukan is a boutique hotel on the river, beautifully furnished with a unique combination of modern and traditional motifs. The timber-walled cabins are furnished with colonial style cupboards, dresser and doors while the ceiling is traditional Myanmar. The single or double beds are proper and comfortable ones and not mere bunks, enough room for 55 passengers who will be looked

after by a 30-member crew. For luxury-living, it offers suites, deluxe or superior cabins as well as singles. There are two massage rooms on the lower deck offering traditional Myanmar massage designed to give soothing relaxation. The sun deck has a stage for cultural performances, and a bar and lounge for relaxation and fun. The upper deck has a lecture / movie room with LCD projector and LCD TV screen. Meals in the dining room on the main deck will include both East and West cuisine, and dinner menus of delicious dishes. Vegetarian meals can be prepared when informed in advance. The price is inclusive of all meals, sightseeing tours and entrance fees at monuments.

Magical Myanmar Day 1: Yangon

Transfer form Airport to Prome, afternoon city tour visiting impressive Buddhist pilgrimage site and surrounding mountains.

Day 2: Thayetmyo Morning explore the oldest golf course, the market and the old colonial houses.

Day 3: Italian Forts - Magwe Excursion to Minhla by local boat, Visit the fort built by two Italian Military Engineers for the Burmese King and Myat Than Lun Paya, a 1929 built pagoda of gold solid bricks set on a hilltop with a beautiful view of the river. Visit the Magwe picturesque market by trishaw. Sail all day upstream.

On arrival transfer to board the ship, visit selection of pagodas and temples.

Day 2: River Village Explore archaeological area, local markets, lacquer ware workshop and tale a walk in Shwe Pyi Thar village.

Day 3: Yandabo

Visit 13th century village, 19th century teak monasteries, British colonial buildings and enjoy a marvellous sunset over Bagan plain.

Day 9: Monywa

Day 6: Bagan Full day city sightseeing tour visiting selection of pagodas and temples and explore the archaeological area.

Day 7: River Village Explore some of Bagan's local markets, visit a lacquer ware workshop and enjoy walk in the Shwe Pyi Thar village Arrive historical town of Yandabo where the peace treaty of the First Anglo-Burmese war signed on Feb. 24, 1826. Explore the village,

Excursion to 14th century Hpowindaung and Shwebadaung caves. After lunch visit Sambuddhai Kat Kyaw pagoda with its more than 500,000 Buddha images.

Day 10: Mingun & Amarapura Today visit Mingun the unfinished pagoda, the largest working bell in the world and the “home for the aged”. After lunch we explore Ava by horse-cart and later visit U-Bein Bridge at sunset.

Day 11: Mandalay Departure After breakfast disembark the boat at Gawein jetty and tour finishes with direct transfer to the airport. 11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

Day 5: Ava - Amarapur We explore Ava by horse-cart visiting 200 year old teak, Nanmyin watchtower and U-Bein Bridge at sunset.

Day 6: Kyauk Myaung Visit the spectacular pottery-making village of Ngwe Nyein and see the manufacture stages of the famous 50 Gallon (200L) pots.

Arrive in Yandabo where the peace treaty of the First Anglo-Burmese war was signed. Explore the village, visit pot-making workshop, local school and monastery.

Day 7: Tagaung

Day 4: Monywa

Day 8: Shwegu and The Second Defile

Excursion to 14th century Hpowindaung and Shwebadaung caves. After lunch visit Sambuddhai Kat Kyaw pagoda with it’s more than 500,000 Buddha images.

3239.00

visit pot-making workshop, local school and the monastery.

Burma Days Day 1: Bagan

FROM AU$

Day 5: Salay & Tan Kyi Mountain

Day 8: Yandabo

Day 4: Magwe

11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

Explore by foot the ancient city of Tagaung, shrine of Bo Bo Gyi a famous nat and the archaeological area.

Continue upstream to view the spectacular Second defile, the largest of the Irrawaddy gorges, with its magnificent cliffs reaching

FROM AU$

5332.00

down the narrow channel. In the afternoon visit Katha.

Day 9: Katha

Explore the old streets and the market by trishaw and if time allows an Elephant Logging Camp located on the surrounding hardwood forest.

Day 10: Mingun Full day cruising with stop for a walk to a river village. Afternoon arrive in Mingun and visit the unfinished pagoda, the largest working bell in the world and the “home for the ages”.

Day 11: Mandalay Departure After breakfast disembark at Gawein Jetty and tour finishes with direct transfer to the Mandalay airpory. www.totalholidayoptions.com 71

Deluxe Small Group Journeys Touch it, feel it and experience it

NDIA & Sri Lanka is fast becoming a favourite destination amongst the travellers because of its history, age old traditions and heritage famous architecture, Tea Gardens, sandy beaches, National Parks and mouth watering cuisine. It gives you a unique and well rounded cultural experience and definitely a MUST SEE at least once in your lifetime. Our latest brochure has collection of some of the unique and popular Small Group Tours, finely tuned to help you capture the most exciting experiences of your choice. Make the most of it while you enjoy a stay at some of the beautiful Palaces, Havelies, Tea garden resorts and Beach resorts offering international and modern facilities.

Why Small Group Travel? Smaller, Escorted and Inclusive Our Small Group tours consists maximum of 16 people to ensure perfect combination of intimacy, flexibility and authentic cultural experiences. Our itineraries are artfully crafted, showcasing the essence of a destination by combining famous highlights with hidden jewels. All groups are escorted on achieving minimum number by an English speaking Tour Leader assisting you throughout on day to day activities and enlightening you with local knowledge on general specialties, additional sightseeing and souvenir shopping. Our experienced Local Tour Guides will enhance your experience during sightseeing tour. Travel with like-minded travellers and experience comprehensive inclusions, as well as unsurpassed cultural interpretation provided by experienced tour leaders.

What Makes Us Different?

We are your Local wholesaler Being one of the True Destination Specialists our group team in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal as well as Australia and New Zealand ensures that every itinerary is well balanced and filled with amazing cultural experiences, breathtaking scenery and historical sites. Most must see and must doâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s are included giving you opportunity to witness sights, taste delicious cuisine, visit bazaar for souvenirs, meet and experience life of locals at the same time have some free time to explore town the way you like. Whichever itinerary you select all are included complete travel and transfer by charted air-conditioned vehicles, local English speaking 72 www.totalholidayoptions.com

guide, sightseeing, entrance fee to the monuments and parks, safaris, boat ride, elephant or camel or horse ride, cultural shows at the theatre or hotel, domestic airfare in economy class, train fare in best available air-conditions class and not to mentioned the current govt taxes of the county. For more details of inclusions please refer to the inclusions column of the itinerary. Deluxe Group Tour Accommodations All our Group Tours are based on deluxe (4*) accommodation unless mentioned on the tour page, each hotel is carefully selected for its location, comfort, style and ambience providing a true holiday experience. Our accommodations are a mixture of palaces, heritage, Havelies and modern hotels. In most cases we free upgrade the whole group to 5* accommodation in some destinations when tour is fully booked out in advance. Value for Money Being a Wholesaler, our huge buying power help us pass the discounted rates to provide our clients with deluxe accommodation and sometimes upgrades them without any additional cost. Our own local team of experts add incredible value for your dollar. Getting Around Comfort is our first priority. All our coaches are air-conditioned with push back seats. We even offer 30-35 seater coach when only 16 people are in a group, providing everyone a window seats. Our train journeys in air-conditioning sleeper class where bedding is provided by the train attendant and itineraries that include domestic flight to connect destination we use economy class.

Guaranteed Departures To assist you when booking the airline and taking our great early payment savings, TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS has designated all Group Tours as 100% GUARANTEED departure with specified minimum numbers on the scheduled date, unless circumstances occur beyond our control. Tipping Pool Though there are no proper guidelines for tipping, to make it easy for everyone we have given guidelines on page 6 of this brochure. You can pay that with your final payment or on arrival to your Tour Manager.

Multi Trip Discount 5% Off If you have the time why not combine two or more of our Small Group Journeys and save? In any one holiday, we will discount your second and onwards trip by 5%. Discount applies for lowest price tour package and does not apply to trips already combined on the Group Tour itineraries. The discount is on land only tour package.

Plan Your Own Group

The advantage of a true specialist is their knowledge and confidence in assisting anyone who is keen to visit a destination but like to do things differently. Is a special occasion? Do you want to experience a festival, lead a culinary adventure, organise a yoga and wellness group or cycle the off beaten tracks of India or Sri Lanka with people close to you? Or do you find parts of one of our tours appealing but want to alter dates or itineraries to better suit your groupsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs? Please contact us with your wish list and our team will be glad to tailor-make your special tour ensuring all possible activities and ideas are incorporated, making a unique group tour.

Group Discount 5% Off

If you have a group of friends or family wanting to visit India, Sri Lanka, Nepal or Bhutan, we are offering a 5% discount when six or more passengers book together on any Small Group Journey departure. The discount is for land only tour package.

Past Passenger Discount 5% Off

As Loyal Traveller appreciation we are offering a 5% discount off on any new Small Group Journey bookings on land only. All you have to do is prove that you have travelled on one Small Group Journey with us since 2009 and the discount is yours!

Meals

Being seasoned travellers ourselves we understand the hassle of searching for proper dinning when travelling time is unpredictable. All our group journeys include daily breakfast at hotel, lunch in midway restaurant and dinner either in the hotel or at local restaurant. Cuisine are a combination of local and international food, usually served in a buffet style or fixed menu meal, enables you to sample the local specialties. While you are in India, Sri Lanka and Myanmar donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t expect to eat much western food. Rather, enjoy the local cuisine of a true blend of spice and not too much chilli.

How Early Should I Book? The earlier is better so that you can save on our promotional offers. We offer excellent value for our Small Group Tours which tends to be booked out earlier than expected hence reserve your place at least 6 to 7 months prior to departure.

Early Bird Discount 5% Planning ahead of time is rewarded at THO, any booking made 11 months before its schedule departure will get 5% discount on the tour price.

Local Offices and 24/7 Helpline Apart from 24/7 helpline number for emergency assistance; our guest relation manager will keep contact with your escort on every alternative day make sure everything is going smooth. Our 36 local network and associate office Manager will be there to assist you in every destination.

Group Tour Privately If you have group of friends or family or even two of you and like to do group tour Itinerary as a Private Car. Please contact us and we will be glad to assist you.

Pre and Post Tour Accommodation If you like to arrive early to adjust in the environment before starting the tour or stay on longer, we can arrange pre or post tour accommodation.

International Flights Since most of the people like to fly with their preferred airlines and travellers join our group tour from different parts, Intentional airfare is not included in any of our tours. Please contact us or your travel agent for promotional and discounted fare.

www.totalholidayoptions.com 73

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Humayun Tomb, Delhi

Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve

Golden Triangle & Tiger

Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

1598.00

On this journey, take an in-depth look at the amazing Palaces and Monuments of India and explore some of the most impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites and search for the elusive tiger in the Ranthambore National Park. The dazzling Forts, Palaces and Monuments of Delhi are evidences of Mughal opulence and British sophistication. The Taj Mahal world’s greatest monument of love is definitely the highlight with visit to Agra Fort and local markets. Not to be missed is the Pink City of Jaipur to witness the rich architectural legacy of Jaipur merchants, ride an elephant to Amber Fort. We enjoy Wildlife safari at Ranthambore Tiger Reserve and spot various wild animals and Royal Bengal Tiger before returning back to Delhi.

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel in Delhi for two nights stay.

Shahjahan for his queen Mumtaz Mahal and Agra Fort a UNESCO World Heritage site before travelling back to Delhi. Tour finish with direct transfer to international airport.

Day 2: Delhi Enjoy breakfast and introduction of the tour before starting full day sightseeing of Old and New Delhi. Visit Qutub Minar, India Gate, Gandhi Memorial and Chandni Chok bazaar.

Day 3: Delhi - Jaipur

SMALL GROUP TOUR

Travel to Jaipur, evening explore the bazaar and witness local men wearing turbans, describing their clan and women in their beautiful mirror jaded colourful clothes. Stay two nights at Jaipur.

Starts: Delhi Ends: Delhi

Day 4: Jaipur

Grade: Easy Paced

Start full day sightseeing tour with a visit to Amber Fort riding an elephant from the foothill of the fortresses and the Maharaja’s City Palace, the Observatory, photo stop at the Hawa Mahal and drive past the old part of Jaipur city.

Guaranteed Departure minimum 02 pax WHAT’S INCLUDED? Deluxe hotel accommodation with private facilities Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers

Day 5: Ranthambhore After breakfast travel to Ranthambore National Park and enjoy a village tour. Stay two nights at the wildlife resort.

Add return airfare from AU$1200* Low season *contact your agent or us for current or promotional fare.

STARTS

ENDS

TWIN PRICE (AU$)

SOLO PRICE (AU$)

02 Oct

09 Oct

$1598

$2169

06 Nov

13 Nov

$1598

$2169

11 Dec

18 Dec

$1598

$2169

2014

2015 15 Jan

$1598

$2169

05 Feb

12 Feb

$1598

$2169

05 Mar

12 Mar

$1598

$2169

02 Apr

09 Apr

$1598

$2169

07 May

14 May

$1598

$2169

04 Jun

11 Jun

$1598

$2169

08 Jan

06 Oct

13 Oct

$1698

$2297

Day 6: Ranthambhore

03 Nov

10 Nov

$1698

$2297

08 Dec

15 Dec

$1698

$2297

22 Dec

29 Dec

$1698

$2297

Monument entry fees

Enjoy morning and afternoon wildlife safari at the Ranthambhore Tiger reserve and a home for many wildlife species. Evening free to explore nearby village.

07 Jan

Elephant ride in Jaipur

Day 7: Ranthambhore - Agra

Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified THO Tour Manager (minimum 06 people) Local English speaking tour guide

Rickshaw ride in Delhi 02 wildlife safaris at Ranthambhore A bottle of water while travelling All current collectable taxes

74 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Journey to Agra, en-route visit Fatehpur Sikri, also known as the abandoned city of Mughals. Stay overnight at Agra.

Day 8: Agra - Delhi Departure Morning visit to the immortal Taj Mahal (closed on a Friday) built by Emperor

2016 14 Jan

$1698

$2297

04 Feb

14 Feb

$1698

$2297

10 Mar

17 Mar

$1698

$2297

31 Mar

07 Apr

$1698

$2297

21 Apr

28 Apr

$1698

$2297

05 May

12 May

$1598

$2169

02 Jun

09 Jun

$1598

$2169

Cochin fishing net

Kerala Houseboat

Gro

Tea garden, Munnar

Spice, Tea & Backwaters of Kerala

9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

Jou

LU X

rne

1838.00

Kerala today has become one of the most popular destinations in south India. It’s a perfect destination for adventure, culture and relaxation. With its laid-back scenic beach, swaying elephant rides and gentle houseboat cruises along tropical backwaters, you'll soon see why National Geographic Traveller voted Kerala one of its ten 'Paradise Found'. There are many fascinating elements that make Kerala a must see place. This small tour takes in the most captivating areas, including the ancient harbour city of Cochin, through the beautiful tea gardens and coffee estates of Munnar, to the wildlife reserve of Periyar and the serenity of the backwaters.

Day 1: Arrive Cochin On arrival at the airport meet your tour manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two nights stay in Cochin

Day 2: Cochin Wake up early to witness the mesmerising sight of the sun rising over Chinese fishing nets. After breakfast we will set out to explore this port city with a rich and interesting past.

We will walk through the Fort area, exploring the Jewish Syangogue, St Francis church, Dutch Palace or Mattancherry Palace. Visit the spice market, one of the biggest centres of spices in Cochin. Here you can buy some of the authentic spices used in Indian curries. In the evening we will witness a Kathakali performance. Kathakali is a ritualised dance form that is native to Kerala, with elaborate costumes and makeup.

Day 3: Cochin - Munnar Drive from Cochin to Munnar, a hill station at a height of 1525 mtrs, offering a breathtaking view of the hills swathed in an impossibly green carpet of tea bushes. Munnar is a quaint little town that exudes a rare old world charm and reminds one of the days of the Raj in its elegant splendour. Beyond the rolling hills discover the rich tropical forests abounding in exotic flora and fauna. Afternoon free to relax or explore the surroundings and stay overnight at Munnar.

Day 4: Munnar - Thekkady SMALL GROUP TOUR Starts: Cochin Ends: Trivandrum Grade: Easy Paced

After breakfast we drive through the Western Ghats to Thekkady, a beautiful area of tea gardens, rubber estates and coffee and pepper plantations, located high in the Cardamom hills. En-route visit the Tea Museum opened by the Tata Tea group, where you will learn about the growth of the tea plantations in Munnar. In the afternoon, visit a spice garden where you will be introduced to different spices and shown how some of the spices are grown. Stay two nights at Thekkady.

traditional rice boats now converted into deluxe accommodation. Enjoy afternoon relaxing in the lounge as we drift along. Spend overnight on the houseboat.

Day 7&8: Allepey - Kovalam Disembark after breakfast and travel to the coastal beach resort town of Kovalam. Relax at the beach resort and rejuvenate yourself with the goodness of Ayurveda herbal message during your two night stay.

Day 9: Trivandrum Departure After breakfast transfer to the Trivandrum international airport to board your onward flight home. Add return airfare from AU$1200* Low season *contact your agent or us for current or promotional fare.

STARTS

ENDS

TWIN PRICE (AU$)

SOLO PRICE (AU$)

10 Oct

18 Oct

$1838

$2697

14 Nov

22 Nov

$1838

$2697

19 Dec

27 Dec

$1838

$2697

2014

2015 16 Jan

24 Jan

$1838

$2697

14 Feb

22 Feb

$1838

$2697

14 Mar

22 Mar

$1838

$2697

10 Apr

18 Apr

$1838

$2697

15 May

23 May

$1838

$2697

12 Jun

20 Jun

$1838

$2697

Day 5: Thekkady

16 Sep

24 Sep

$1954

$2866

14 Oct

22 Oct

$1954

$2866

11 Nov

19 Nov

$1954

$2866

16 Dec

24 Dec

$1954

$2866

Spice plantation visit

Wake up early to experience a boat cruise on the Lake Periyar, which showcases a kaleidoscope of activities that occur around the lake and jungle. Later return to the hotel for breakfast and visit a spice plantation growing cardamom, pepper, coffee, and vanilla. Stay overnight in Thekkady.

Overnight backwater cruise

Day 6: Backwater Cruise

01 standard Ayurveda oil massage

After an early breakfast enjoy the scenic drive to Alleppey dotted with traditional Kerala houses and bordered by rolling hills on either side. Arrive at these beautiful network of canals to board the “Kettuvallam”,

Tea museum in Munnar A bottle of water while travelling All current taxes

2016 15 Jan

23 Jan

$1954

$2866

16 Feb

24 Feb

$1954

$2866

18 Mar

26 Mar

$1954

$2866

08 Apr

16 Apr

$1954

$2866

29 Apr

07 May

$1954

$2866

13 May

21 May

$1954

$2866

10 Jun

18 Jun

$1954

$2866

www.totalholidayoptions.com 75

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Foodie's Choice

Bada Imambara, Lucknow

Culinary Tour of North India

Taj Mahal, Agra

11 DAYS / 10 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

2924.00

Though North India offers variety of vegetarian and non vegetarian cuisine but due to limited time we have selected the best Five to give you an understanding of the cooking style. We not only will enjoy the real food of the region but also visit all must see places during our sightseeing tour.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Tour starts in Delhi the Capital of India, this city was ruled by the Mughals for 330 years and they did everything in style and splendour. Today city offers panoramic vista of heritage and modern India that you will experience during the city sightseeing tour. Mughlai Food will be our first culinary experience known for its richness, exotic use of spices, dried fruit and nuts. We also visit historical Parathewali gali famous for variety of stuffed bread and enjoy Muglai dinner at famous Moti Mahal restaurant known to introduce butter Chicken to the world. Our next destination is Lucknow; the city of Nawabs famous for Chickan Textile and its Awadhi Cuisine. This is one place that has a colony of Chefs called 'Bawarchi Tola'. Over 450 years Royal Bawarchis (Cook) and Rakabdars of Awadh gave birth to Dum style of cooking or you can say the art of cooking over a slow fire which becomes synonymous with this city. Here we will enjoy Awadhi Dastarkhwan with Kebabs, Sheermal, Briyani amongst other delicacy and also walking food tour of world renowned traditional roadside eateries. We travel to Agra to see the monument of love The Taj Mahal before making our way to Ranthambhore National Park to spot wild life and elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. We will stay in Jungle resort and enjoy Indian bar-be-queue dinner. Jaipur will be our last destination also known as the Pink City of Rajasthan for its Royal Palaces and Rajput Warriors. We enjoy city sightseeing tour, elephant ride, explore local bazaar and not to be missed Rajasthani Cuisine at ethnic restaurant. Our cooking class will be at the Royal Family home with homemade dinner.

Deluxe hotel accommodation with private facilities

Highlights of this tour are to introduce you to real culinary experience with FIVE different cuisine of North India.

SMALL GROUP TOUR Starts: Delhi Ends: Delhi Grade: Easy Paced

Guaranteed Departure minimum 06 pax

Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified THO Tour Manager (minimum 08 people) Local English speaking tour guide Monument entry fees Elephant ride at Jaipur Rickshaw ride in Delhi 02 wildlife jeep safaris at Ranthambhor Barbeque dinner at Ranthambore Dastarkhan style dinner at Lucknow Ethnic Rajasthani Thali dinner A bottle of water while travelling Train fare Delhi - Lucknow - Agra in A/C chair carriage All current collectable taxes 76 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Day 1: Arrive Delhi On arrival at the airport, meet your tour Manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two nights stay in Delhi.

Day 2: Delhi Sightseeing & Mughali Food After a brief introduction of the city by the tour Manager we visit Old City of ‘Shahjahanabad’, included is a rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk to the largest mosque in Asia, Jama Masjid. A quick visit to the famous Paranthe Wali Gali – then we tour Khari Baoli, Asia’s largest wholesale spice market. We stop for lunch before touring New Delhi including Qutub Minar and Humayun’s Tomb. Evening get ready for our first culinary experience and to enjoy truly Mughlai food at the world renowned restaurant Moti Mahal known to have introduced butter chicken to the world in year 1948. Mughlai

Biryani, Tandoori Tikka, Qurma are some of the delicacy you will be enjoying.

Day 3: Delhi - Lucknow An early morning transfer to board express train to enjoy a short journey to Lucknow. 'The City of Nawabs' is an intriguing blend of old world charm, warm hospitality, courteous people, beautiful architecture and rich heritage. The city also is the centre for Chikan embroidery, renowned for its timeless grace and gossamer delicacy, a skill more than 2000 years old. Afternoon visit to Chickan workshop will mesmerise when you watch skilled worker delicately working on unique styles and stitches on very light cotton cloths. Ensure you have enough space to enjoy walking food tour of Lucknow which allows you to hop-in, hop-out of the world famous traditional roadside eateries. Some of the eateries we visit are Mobeen's

Pasanda, Raheem's Nihari Gosht, Bismillha's or Idris' Biryani, Tundey Kebab and finish with Indian ice ream at Chanakya's Kulfi. Stay two nights at Lucknow.

Day 4: Lucknow Sightseeing & Awadhi Food By this morning you certainly want to go for a long walk to keep yourself ready for Awadhi Cuisine dinner so we start our day with city sightseeing tour and visit Bada Imambara; a famous monument of Lucknow, Government Museum and leisure walk in Hazrat Ganj and Aminabad local bazaar giving chance to shop traditional but very comfortable Chikan dress for tonightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dinner. Evening get ready for another memorable Awadhi Cuisine Dastarkhwan dinner night where you will be enjoying Awdhi Briyani, Galawat & Kakori Kebab, Sheermal and chef special Raan Musallam to name few.

Day 5: Lucknow - Agra & Multi Cuisine Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and the morning is free to explore the heritage city of the Nawab on your own. Noon we check out of the hotel and transfer to the railway station to board train to Agra. Known by all as the home of the Taj Mahal, the city is still associated with the Mughuls who were great builders and you will witness some of the finest architecture as you pass by. Food was also their passion and the cuisine will range from mild to spicy, with specialities in barbeque, curries and bread. Enjoy multi cuisine dinner and stay two nights in Agra.

Day 6: Agra

Early morning watch the sunrise over the Taj Mahal. The world's greatest monument to love and devotion with its superb craftsmanship of semiprecious stones inlaid into the marble in beautiful patterns, a process known as pietra dura. After breakfast visit the impressive 16th century Agra Fort and Tomb of Itimad ud Daulah. Afternoon visit marble inlay workshop to understand the beautiful calligraphy done with precious gemstones on the Taj Mahal. Evening free to explore local bazaar.

Day 7: Agra - Ranthambore Drive to Ranthambore en-route visit Fatehpur Sikri also known as abundant town of the Mughals and another UNESCO World Heritage site. Evening free to relax or explore this small village and stay two nights in Jungle resort.

Day 8: Wildlife safari & Indian Barbeque As dawn breaks the jungle comes alive with bird and animals calls. Enjoy morning and afternoon wildlife safari by Jeep, searching for elusive Royal Bengal Tiger amongst many wild species of birds, reptiles and capture some spectacular views of the majestic Aravalli ranges. As per surroundings we will enjoy India bar-be-queue dinner in the lawns of the hotel. The food is first marinated for hours before skewing through iron rod and cooked over the charcoal fire and clay oven also known a Tandoor to give is a unique flavour. Food we enjoy will be selection of tikkaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and kebabs accompanied by local dishes.

Day 9: Ranthambore - Jaipur & home-made meal Travel to Jaipur; the Pink City of Rajasthan is a treasure-trove of culture, art and history and famous for its colour, life style and Rajasthani cuisine. Evening we explore Bazaar hunting through the colourful and chaotic streets, shopping for souvenirs like silver jewellery, precious and semi-precious stones. To understand what a typically Indian family eat on a daily basis we visit Rajput family house and participate in cooking lesson so you can create quick, simple and healthy curry when you are back home. Lady of the house will guide you through the lesson and sharing the story of their royal past. We enjoy a typical house meal consist of vegetables, lentil, non vegetarian, some snacks, rice and chapatti. Stay two nights at Jaipur.

Day 10: Sightseeing & Rajasthani food Our guided sightseeing start with an excursion to the Amber Fort driving

through Pink City, elephant ride at the Fort, Jantar Mantar an open air astronomical observatory, photo stop at the Hawa Mahal and City Palace complex. In the evening have a traditional Rajasthani Thali at Choki Dhani, and all the entertainments of a street fare is a great venue. The Thali here usually has some vegetables only grown in Rajasthan desert areas and served along with Bajra (millet) chapattis amongst other Rajasthani delicacies.

Day 11: Jaipur - Delhi Departure After leisurely breakfast we travel back to Delhi. Tour finish by late afternoon with direct transfer to Delhi International airport where you board your onwards flight.

Add return airfare from AU$1200* Low season *contact your agent or us for current or promotional fare.

STARTS

ENDS

TWIN PRICE (AU$)

SOLO PRICE (AU$)

02 Oct

12 Oct

$2924

$3714

13 Nov

23 Nov

$2924

$3714

26 Dec

05 Jan '15 $2924 2015 18 Jan $2924

$3714

2014

08 Jan

$3714

05 Feb

15 Feb

$2924

$3714

05 Mar

15 Mar

$2924

$3714

02 Apr

12 Apr

$2924

$3714

08 Oct

18 Oct

$3098

$3947

12 Nov

22 Nov

$3098

$3947

17 Dec

27 Dec

$3098

$3947

2016 11 Feb

21 Feb

$3098

$3947

10 Mar

20 Mar

$3098

$3947

14 Apr

24 Apr

$3098

$3947

www.totalholidayoptions.com 77

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Culinary Tour of South India

12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

3137.00

South India is a combination of four states and over the centuries has become home to many different cuisines which are deliciously different in taste and style of preparation. Join this 12 day culinary adventure of South India. Guests will enjoy a range of delicious cuisines from Karnataka, Kerala, Malabar, home cooked to Mughlai and Mappilla, with Chef on hand to divulge the history and secret recipes of the tempting dishes on offer. Visit bustling local markets, enjoy a cooking class and join a local family for a traditional meal to learn more about the food and culture of this incredible region. With plenty of time to explore the World Heritage Site of Mamallapuram, the historic city of Mysore, the beautiful Kerala backwaters and the stunning beaches of Kovalam, this tour is sure to appeal to devoted foodies, culture aficionados and interested travellers of all ages.

Day 1: Arrive Chennai

SMALL GROUP TOUR Starts: Chennai Ends: Trivandrum Grade: Easy Paced

Guaranteed Departure minimum 06 pax WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INCLUDED? Deluxe hotel accommodation with private facilities Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified THO Tour Manager (minimum 08 people) Local English speaking tour guide Monument entry fees Karnataka cuisine experience Malabar cuisine experience Mappilla cuisine experience Ethnic Thali dinner A bottle of water while travelling Airfare Chennai - Bangalore in economy class All current collectable taxes 78 www.totalholidayoptions.com

On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist you to transfer to the designated hotel for overnight stay.

Day 2: Mamallapuram, Sightseeing Thali & Seafood Start your morning with a trip to Mamallapuram - Its enviable position on the Coromandel Coast, facing the Bay of Bengal, guarantees that this is a popular place to stay. Spend time on the whitesand beach shaded by casuarinas trees and explore this wonderful open-air museum, much of which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Arjuna's Penance for its wonderful bas-reliefs covering two huge boulders the exquisite detail, dating from the 7th century. Shore Temple Relish the delightful seaside location, overlooking the Bay of Bengal, and landscaped gardens. Experience South Indian Thali meals served in Banana leaf at lunch, it is a well balanced veg meal. Evening enjoy the fresh catch of the day cooked with Bay Spice - local peppers, coriander and tamarind. You'll relish the French seafood broth with shredded vegetable, diced seafood and a peg of tender coconut water.

Day 3: Chennai - Bangalore Enjoy your leisurely breakfast before our transfer to board flight to Bangalore.

Afternoon free to explore this IT town known as silicone valley of India. Stay overnight in Bangalore.

Day 4: Bangalore - Mysore & Karnataka Food Begin with a visit to the botanical gardens at Lal Bagh conceived and laid out by Sultan Hyder Ali in 1760. His son, Tipu, expanded the gardens further planting exotic plants from Persia, Kabul, Turkey, and Mauritius over 96 hectares. Highlights include the Lawn Clock and the British-built glasshouse, structurally based on London's Crystal Palace and then drive to Mysore; you will be charmed by the faded grandeur of Mysore, the former capital of the much loved Wodeyars dynasty who reigned from the 16th century. Evening enjoy an exclusively designed menu by Chef that features traditional Karnataka cuisine, dinner will be a love of labour, full of nostalgic memories and a very special treat indeed. Two nights in Mysore.

Day 5: Mysore Sightseeing & Mughalai Food Morning we visit most colourful local market, Mysore Palace; you can't fail to be impressed by this vast palace, with its turrets, domes and arches and an opulent interior with intricately carved doors and ceilings. Evening Head up Chamundi Hill for panoramic views of the city spread out below before exploring the exquisite

hilltop temple dedicated to the goddess, Chamundi. This evening enjoy Mughlai food at Olive garden in windflower. It is famous for the exotic use of spices, dried fruit and nuts. The Mughals did everything in style and splendour and Chef will explain the layering of the spices that gives each preparation an exotic taste and flavour.

Day 6: Mysore - Calicut & Moppilla Food

along the tropical shoreline. The land is lush with coconut palms and green rice fields. By noon we’ll board our Private Houseboat for lunch. In the evening if you wish you can accompany the houseboat staff to one of the village fish markets, where you can put to test your bargaining skills for purchasing the fresh water prawns, which can later be cooked for you to have it for dinner. Overnight at the houseboat.

Travel to Calicut and visit Beypore, a prominent port and fishing harbour of ancient Kerala. Visit the fish markets and Boat yards in Beypore, which have been building vessels since early centuries for legendary seamen. Tonight enjoy a special dinner featuring Moppilla Cuisine -The cuisine of Kerala Muslims, well known for its delicate blend of spiciness and subtle mix of ingredients that add a touch of the exotic! Like any regional cuisines, Mappilas have also developed a cuisine that makes the best use of locally available ingredients. As such, most dishes are made from various forms and combinations of rice, banana, coconut and egg, besides of course, meat. Over night in Calicut .

Day 10: Alleppery Thekkady

Day 7: Calicut - Cochin & Malabar Food

After breakfast proceed to view the rare species grown at home with our host. Growing cardamom, pepper, coffee, and Vanilla etc. Walk amidst the palette displaying variant shades of green. It is believed that the spice trade dates back three thousand years in Kerala and many spices find their home here. This evening takes a Cooking Class with home cooked Kerala Cuisine dinner; she teaches guests the nuance of traditional Kerala recipes.

Today we drive to Cochin with its wealth of historical associations and its beautiful setting on a cluster of islands and narrow peninsulas; the fascinating city of Cochin perfectly reflects the eclecticism of Kerala. Cochin now renamed Kochi, boasts one of the finest natural harbours on the Arabian Sea coast and has been a port of call for foreign traders from very early times. This evening watch a performance of the Kathakali dance, where characters use larger than life gestures and dramatic make up. Afterwards enjoy Malabar Cuisine at a superb, open-sided restaurant in a garden. Stay two nights in Cochin.

We disembark the houseboat after breakfast and travel to Thekkday, South India’s most popular wildlife sanctuary. The sanctuary is spread over an area of about 777 sq km and comprises of a thick evergreen forest with exotic wild life. After some relaxation proceed for a boat cruise on the Lake Periyar, which show cases a kaleidoscope of activities that incur around the lake and jungle. Evergreen moist deciduous forests and savannah grass lands characterise Periyar. Stay two nights in Thekkady homestay.

Day 11: Thekkady, Sightseeing & Homemade Food

We will also arrange for Market trip –like visit vegetable market and spice market this will provide the opportunity to enjoy delicious food in homely ambience, interact with members of the host family and experience

the nuances of a joint family system. The unique experience brings you in close touch with the traditions; values and cultural ethos of this enchanting land.

Day 12: Trivandrum Departure After breakfast travel back to Trivandrum and tour finishes with drect transfer to international airport to board your flight home.

Add return airfare from AU$1200* Low season *contact your agent or us for current or promotional fare.

STARTS

ENDS

TWIN PRICE (AU$)

SOLO PRICE (AU$)

16 Oct

27 Oct

$3137

$4186

27 Nov

08 Dec

$3137

$4186

11 Dec

22 Dec

$3137

$4186

2014

2015 02 Feb

$3137

$4186

19 Feb

02 Mar

$3137

$4186

19 Mar

30 Mar

$3137

$4186

16 Apr

27 Apr

$3137

$4186

22 Oct

02 Nov

$3334

$4448

19 Nov

30 Nov

$3334

$4448

24 Dec

$4448

21 Jan

04 Jan '15 $3334 2016 01 Feb $3334

25 Feb

07 Mar

$3334

$4448

24 Mar

04 Apr

$3334

$4448

14 Apr

25 Apr

$3334

$4448

22 Jan

$4448

Day 8: Cochin We visit the Jewish Synagogue built in 1568. Scrolls of the Old Testament and a number of copper plates inscribed in Hebrew script are preserved here. Continue on to visit St. Francis Church, the oldest church constructed by the Europeans in India. Also visit the Mattancherry Palace, built by the Portuguese in 1555. Their dresses, turbans and palanquins and murals from Hindu mythology are all beautiful and worth seeing. Culminate the tour at Fort Kochi, which is said to be the oldest European settlement in India. This evening we explore town or visit the famous beach.

Day 9: Backwater cruise Journey to Alleppey, at the heart of the backwaters of Kerala. Arrive at these beautiful palm fringed network of canals to board the “Kettuvalams”, traditional rice boats now converted into deluxe accommodation. It is no wonder that Alleppey has been called the Venice of the East. The gorgeous backwaters support a vibrant village life www.totalholidayoptions.com 79

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GROUP TOUR

Cycling Sikkim & Tea Trails of India

12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

3770.00

The dramatic terrain of Sikkim guarantees stunning vistas of snow-capped Himalayan peaks and challenging biking on roads lined with a wide variety of rhododendrons. This land locked northern Indian state is bordered by Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan, and the influence is seen in the people, the majority of whom are ethnically Nepali, and the two predominant religions of Hinduism and Vajrayana Buddhism. The going is mostly along quieter roads, but there are some busier sections, which the guides and accompanying vehicles will help you to negotiate. We start our tour at the state capital of Gangtok, which is also a centre of Tibetan Buddhist culture and learning. On our first day of riding we'll take an easy cycle to get used to the higher altitude of 1,437 metres (4,715 ft) and use our bicycles to visit the 200-year-old baroque Enchey monastery. We'll be riding down into valleys and then up over passes (none higher than 2,100 m) where we'll have the Kanchenjunga mountain range as our backdrop. We take breaks to visit Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, make a wish at Sikkim's holiest lake, sample tea from local plantations, and ride a toy train in the colonial hill station of Darjeeling. SMALL GROUP TOUR Starts: Kolkata Ends: Bagdogra Grade: Adventurous

Guaranteed Departure minimum 06 pax WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INCLUDED? Comfort hotel accommodation with private facilities Travel by charter coach and cycling Support vehicle during cycling Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified THO Tour Manager (minimum 06 people) Local English speaking tour guide Monument entrance fees Toy train ride in Darjeeling Hire mountain terrain bike with front suspension A bottle of water while travelling Airfare Kolkata - Bagdogra in economy class Group assistance and transfers All current collectable taxes 80 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Note: Due to hygiene reason we recommend you to bring your own personal cycling gear to be used during tour. Only one mountain terrain bike hire included as per itinerary.

Day 1: Arrive Kolkata On arrival at the airport, meet your tour manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay in Kolkata.

Day 2: Kolkata

After relaxed breakfast meet your Tour Manager at the lobby for tour briefing and feel free to clear all the doubts regarding the tour before we start our adventure. Kolkata being capital of British Colonial Empire prior independence and now capital of West Bengal offer vast verity of sightseeing options which we will visit during our sightseeing tour. Our day starts with visit to Dalhousie Square, one of Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest flower markets with the view of Howrah Bridge, Kumartuli, enjoy Short Walk on Chowringhee Lane, St. Paul Cathedra Church and Victoria Memorial. Return back to hotel for freshen up and conclude your evening with welcome dinner at the restaurant serving authentic Bengali cuisines (Thali) from all over Bengal. Overnight at hotel in Kolkata.

Day 3: Kolkata - Gangtok Morning transfer to board flight to Bagdogra and transfer by coach to Gangtok the capital of Sikkim amidst the grandeur of the mountain peaks, lush valleys, fast flowing rivers, hills, Sikkim offers her visitors a rare and singular experience. Remaining day is free to explore and stay overnight at hotel.

Day 4: Gangtok Soon after breakfast your adventure starts; you will pick up your mountain Cycles and start the sightseeing of Gangtok city visiting Flower Show Complex, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology (closed on Sundays), Cottage Industry (closed on Sundays) and Enchey Monastery. Rest of the day is spent at leisure. Stay two nights at the hotel.

Day 5: Gangtok After an early breakfast we cycle 24 km down to the Rumtek Monastery to witness traditional murals and Tibetan paintings heighten the visual effect with its impressive architecture. Other highlights will be the

paintings of the Kagyu lineage, the eight great Bodhisattvas, the sixteen Arhats, the Genduk Chogngi, sprawling green landscape, a mild weather, smiling people, traditions that touch the conscience and the beautiful monastery.

Day 6: Gangtok - Temi After breakfast we leave Gangtok and cycle towards Temi Tea Garden. Established in 1969 over 435 acres of Land, about a distance of 55 kms from Gangtok in the beautiful valley of Ravangla, Temi tea estates produces some of the best Tea in the world. On arrival check in to one of the scenic resorts for overnight stay. Later we cycle through the Temi Tea Garden and Samdruptse to view Mt. Kanchenjunga.

Day 7: Temi - Yuksom Today we head 70km further northwards to Yuksom, the beautiful north Himalayan valley of Sikkim. We freewheel down more than 1,500m to Legship (520m) then cycle uphill to Tashiding, taking a break for lunch and to visit the monastery and finish at Yuksam (1780m). Overnight at the hotel in Yuksom.

Day 8: Yuksom - Pelling We ride to Khecheopalri and visit Sikkim’s holiest lake surrounded by dense forests and hidden in a mountain bowl 33-m to the northwest of Pelling, Khecheopalri Lake, known as the "Wishing Lake" is sacred to the Lepchas. Our day continues to undulate past forests and rhododendrons to Pelling (2080m) covering approx 50km ride. Evening free to relax and Stay overnight at the hotel.

the bikes and travel by coach up the steep incline to the hill station of Darjeeling. Town often referred to as the “Queen of the Hills”, it remains just as alluring with its snow capped mountains, tiny waterfalls, little villages, narrow gauge railway track and world famous Tea Gardens. Rest of the evening at leisure with dinner and three nights stay at hotel.

Day 10: Darjeeling No cycling today but an early start to witness beautiful sun rise at Tiger Hill and chance to see mountain Range like Kanchanjunga, Mount Everest amongst others. It is truly a majestic sight as the horizon changes colours just before sunrise and then the entire Himalayan range turn golden. We return back to the hotel for breakfast before proceeding to the Darjeeling Railway station for a World Heritage Toy Train ride started in 1881 up to Ghoom. Afternoon free to relax or explore the town for souvenirs.

Add return airfare from AU$1200* Low season *contact your agent or us for current or promotional fare.

STARTS

ENDS

TWIN PRICE (AU$)

SOLO PRICE (AU$)

2014 14 Oct

25 Oct

$3770

$4116

11 Nov

22 Dec

$3770

$4116

2015 10 Feb

21 Feb

$3770

$4116

17 Mar

28 Mar

$3770

$4116

14 Apr

25 Apr

$3770

$4116

12 May

23 May

$3770

$4116

09 Jun

20 Jun

$3770

$4116

15 Sep

26 Sep

$3998

$4374

13 Oct

24 Oct

$3998

$4374

17 Nov

28 Nov

$3998

$4374

2016 01 Feb

$3998

$4374

25 Feb

07 Mar

$3998

$4374

24 Mar

04 Apr

$3998

$4374

14 Apr

25 Apr

$3998

$4374

24 Mar

04 Apr

$3998

$4374

Day 11: Darjeeling

21 Jan

Back on the bikes for city tour as we cycle from our hotel through an old residential area of Darjeeling, we cross the old Hill Cart Road and then take the Old Military Road covering approx 40km. Evening we chit-chat and celebrate all the hills we conquered over a farewell dinner.

Day 12: Bagdogra Departure After leisurely breakfast tour finishes with transfer by coach to the Bagdogra airport where you board flight to Kolkata, Delhi or Mumbai to be connected with your onwards flight.

Day 9: Pelling - Darjeeling After an early breakfast we start cycling towards the beautiful city of Darjeeling and mostly downhill till we reach Malli on good tarmac roads covering approx 70km. When we have finished our descent we'll pack up www.totalholidayoptions.com 81

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Deogarh Mahal

Culture, Culinary & Shopping Tour

15 DAYS / 14 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

4655.00

This tour takes you to the rich cities in history and monumental splendour of India. View the ancient and modern attractions of Delhi, the world famous Taj Mahal in Agra, the forts and palaces of Jaipur. Unique brassware, handicrafts, leather, silver, marble, carpets, paintings and textiles are India's trademark. It's a fun way to meet the locals and certainly expect to bargain your way into winning a purchase. Destinations selected for this tour are famous for its unique culture, mouth watering cuisine and not to mention variety in shopping. Delhi is great introductions for imperial past, shopping paradise; Varanasi is famous for being one of the oldest living city in the world housing great culture and striking beautiful Varanasi Silk before making our way to Agra to see the only perfect marble monument telling the story of unconditional love The Taj Mahal. Will explore bazaar for Marble handicraft and jewel carpet in Agra before travelling to Jaipur the colourful city of Rajasthan, famous for grand palaces, colourful bazaar selling textile, high quality gold, silver and diamond jewellery.

SMALL GROUP TOUR Starts: Delhi Ends: Mumbai Grade: Easy Paced

Guaranteed Departure minimum 02 pax WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INCLUDED?

We enjoy Royal stay at Deogarh Palace where this small town will mesmerise you with its charm and every room of the Palace tell the story of its glorious past. Jodhpur will delight you with its well preserved Mehrangar Fort, one of the largest spice market and Jodhpuri Textile. Before concluding the tour we fly to Mumbai to enjoy Bollywood buzz and shopping. When shopping for souvenirs, the subtle yet ethnic appeal of every item is irresistible whether it be furniture, leatherwear, pottery, metal craft or textiles. It is little wonder, therefore, that because of these artistic treasures which let you indulge without being extravagant.

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

of silk weaving, an exotic work of art which manifests itself in precious Banarasi silk saris and silk brocades are cherished as collectorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s items across the world. We enjoy afternoon at the Silk weaving village witnessing the art of silk weaving and shop for beautiful souvenirs. Evening see the grand prayer ceremony at the Ghats and stay two nights at Varanasi.

Deluxe hotel accommodation with private facilities

On arrival at the airport, meet your tour manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for two nights stay in Delhi.

Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle

Day 2: Delhi

Group assistance and transfers

Heena full hand painting

Enjoy breakfast and brief introduction of the city before starting full day tour of old and New Delhi. Visit Qutub Minar, India gate, Gandhi memorial and Chandni Chok bazaar. We wll explore local bazaar and workshop for handicraft and shopping. Later in the evening discover the culinary secrets of the Moghul Cuisine passed on from one generation to another. You will sample the most delicate kabab cooked to perfection in tandoors and served with Roomali Rotis-a melt in your mouth "handkerchief" bread. Watch the masters prepare this unique "bread" that takes the shape of a handkerchief and can measure up to 3'x3'!

A bottle of water while travelling

Day 3: Delhi - Varanasi

Day 5: Varanasi - Agra

Standard ayurveda oil massage

Soon after breakfast we board morning flight to Varanasi. Varanasi abounds in the art

After breakfast we board flight to Agra the home of the Taj Mahal, the city is still

Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified THO Tour Manager (minimum 06 people) Local English speaking tour guide Monument entrance fees Airfare Delhi-Varanasi-Agra and JodhpurMumbai in economy class Rickshaw ride at Old Delhi Boat ride on River Ganges Elephant ride at Amber Fort

All current collectable taxes 82 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Day 4: Varanasi An early morning start to heritage walk and sunrise boat ride on river Ganges. Witness the perpetual movement of the pilgrims on the steps, the vivid colours of their clothes glistening against the pale gold water, the triangular flags fluttering atop the temple spires. After breakfast enjoy city tour and afternoon excursion to Sarnath where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon at the deer park after his enlightenment.

associated with the Mughuls who were great builders. Afternoon visit Marble inlay workshop to see remaining artesian creating masterpiece with marble and precious gem stone and stay two nights in Agra.

Day 6: Agra

An early start to visit the Taj Mahal, the world's greatest monument of love and devotion with its superb craftsmanship of semi-precious stones inlaid into the marble in beautiful patterns, a process known as pietra dura. After breakfast visit the impressive 16th century Agra Fort and Tomb of Itimad ud Daulah also known as baby Taj. Evening visit jewel carpet workshop and explore local bazaar.

Day 7: Agra - Jaipur Travel to Jaipur, En-route we stop to visit Fatehpur Sikri, known as the deserted city of the Mughals. Continue travel to Jaipur; the first planned city of India, is a treasuretrove of culture, art and history, famous for its colour, life style and Rajasthani cuisine. Evening explore world famous jewellery market offering variety that ranges from chunky tribal Jewellery to enamelled gold to modern diamond jewellery and local bazaar for necklaces, armlets, anklets, earrings, rings, bangles and set with semiprecious stones make an inexpensive buy. Stay two nights at Jaipur.

Day 8: Jaipur

Morning start city sightseeing tour with visit to Amber fort, Jantar Mantar open air astronomical observatory, photo at the Hawa Mahal build for the ladies of the court to watch busy street below without being seen followed by huge City Palace complex, home to the Maharaja with fascinating museum containing his personal collection of weaponry, miniature paintings, royal attire and Jewellery. Afternoon excursion to Sanganer for its block and screen printed fabrics workshop.

Day 9: Jaipur Deogarh Palace Travel to experience rural village life which once was a very important area of Mewar aristocracy. Our stay will be none other than Deogarh Mahal, a truly remarkable luxury palace hotel where every room of the palace tells the story of by gone era. Evening free to explore the village and enjoy two nights stay at the Deogarh Mahal.

Day 10: Deogarh Palace This is the day to relax and pamper so have a leisurely breakfast and meet our local Heena painting experts who will surprise you with the design in your both hand and feet while you relax and see why Heena is so important in every Indian wedding and functions. In the afternoon rejuvenate with Ayurveda oil massage and evening explores the village before concluding your day with dinner at the hotel.

international fashion brands and labels, but is also home to a wide assortment of local markets, boutiques and shopping. Stay two nights in Mumbai.

Day 14: Mumbai

We enjoy half day sightseeing tour of Mumbai and visit the Prince of Wales Museum, Gateway of India, Hanging Garden and Dhobi Ghat. Remaining day free for shopping.

Day 15: Mumbai Departure After breakfast tour finish with transfer to Mumbai airport to board your onwards flight. Add return airfare from AU$1200* Low season *contact your agent or us for current or promotional fare.

STARTS

ENDS

04 Oct

18 Oct

$4655

$5996

08 Nov

22 Nov

$4655

$5996

20 Dec

$5996

17 Jan

03 Jan '15 $4655 2015 31 Jan $4655

21 Feb

07 Mar

$4655

$5996

21 Mar

04 Apr

$4655

$5996

Day 12: Jodhpur

11 Apr

25 Apr

$4655

$5996

Visit Jaswant Thada, a cluster of royal cenotaphs in white marble built in year 1899 in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II and Mehrangarh Fort, one of the best preserved forts in India. Rest of the day free for shopping silverware, quilts, fabrics, leather goods, paintings, embroidered shoes, Jodhpuris and a range of souvenirs.

02 May

16 May

$4655

$5996

12 Sep

26 Sep

$4947

$6372

10 Oct

24 Oct

$4947

$6372

14 Nov

28 Nov

$4947

$6372

26 Dec

$6372

23 Jan

09 Jan '16 $4947 2016 06 Feb $4947

Day 13: Jodhpur - Mumbai

13 Feb

27 Feb

$4947

$6372

12 Mar

26 Mar

$4947

$6372

16 Apr

30 Apr

$4947

$6372

Day 11: Deogarh - Jodhpur Today we make our way to Jodhpur, a city founded in 1459 A.D. and seems like an oasis in the vast desert. Evening explore famous Sadar bazaar in the heart of the city, this is one of the largest markets of Indian Spices and textile. While touring witness a living proof of its traditions, culture and glorious past personified through its amazing monuments.

After leisurely breakfast board flight to Mumbai and evening is free for shopping. Mumbai is not only famous for the

TWIN PRICE (AU$)

SOLO PRICE (AU$)

2014

$5996

$6372

Varanasi Ghats

www.totalholidayoptions.com 83

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Kanchipuram Temple

Mahabalipuram

Saffron to Bollywood

15 DAYS / 14 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

4027.00

This tour is a highly recommended itinerary for those wishing to experience the beautiful scenery and rich culture of Southern India. Explore some of India’s most important pilgrimage sites and temples, taste spices at their source, cruise waterways, and experience the multicultural harbour town of Cochin and the exciting city of Mumbai. We start our tour in Chennai visiting important cultural sites the seaside town of Mamallapuram, where Pallavan stonecutters produced some of the finest carvings in India; Pondicherry where the neatly laid roads remind us of the French colonial era, Thanjavur which still bears witness to the splendour of Chola architecture, found in the carvings of Meenakshi Temple, a temple that buzzes with Hindu pilgrims performing rituals at all hours of the day.

SMALL GROUP TOUR Starts: Chennai Ends: Mumbai Grade: Easy Paced

Guaranteed Departure minimum 02 pax WHAT’S INCLUDED? Deluxe hotel accommodation with private facilities

Periyar, visit local spice plantations growing cardamom, pepper, vanilla, tea and coffee and enjoy a boat ride in a nearby wildlife reserve to scout the forest for resident elephants and birds. We then board an overnight cruise to explore the scenic Backwaters of Kerala a vast, intricate network of lagoons, canals and lakes. Listen for the birdsong drifting out of the nearby Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and observe the local life along the waterways. Cochin, also known as Kochi, an evocative harbour town here we experience the city’s rich past flavoured from Portuguese, British, Dutch, Chinese and Jewish traders including a 500 year old church, a 16th century synagogue and Royal Palace. Enjoy gourmet South Indian specialty dishes and witness a highly ritualised “Kathakali” dance. We will have enough time to browse for antiques and perhaps indulge in a traditional Ayurvedic spa treatment a specialty of southern India. Conclude with touring in Mumbai, India’s high-energy capital and the home of the Bollywood Film Industry. Enjoy the city’s wonderful restaurants, markets and private touring of the most interesting cultural attractions.

Day 1: Arrive Chennai

Sightseeing as specified

On arrival at the airport, meet your tour manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay in Chennai.

World UNESCO site. Later visit a silk weavers village, settled around 400 years ago with an enviable reputation. They still use highest quality silk and pure gold thread.

Meals as specified

Day 2: Mahabalipuram

Day 4: Pondicherry

Backwater cruise

After a brief introduction of the city by our tour manager we visit the Museum and Art Gallery and Marina beach, one of the longest beaches in the world. Afternoon travel to Mahabalipuram and stay two nights.

Journey to Pondicherry, explore this well planned city and witness the French legacy in its beautiful promenades and architecturally imposing buildings left behind before independence. Stay overnight in the hotel.

Spice Plantation visit

Day 3: Kanchipuram

Day 5: Pondicherry Thanjavur

Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers

THO Tour Manager (minimum 06 people) Local English speaking Tour Guide Monument entry fees

Economy class airfare Cochin – Mumbai Boat ride in Periyar National Park Kathakali dance show A bottle of water while travelling All current collectable taxes 84 www.totalholidayoptions.com

We enjoy an excursion to Kanchipuram, the flourishing capital city of the 2nd century Cholas Dynasty, now known as city of a thousand temples and one of the seven sacred cities of Hindu faith. Visit intricately stone carved 8th century Shore Temples constructed in Dravidian style and now a

Morning we enjoy city sightseeing and visit Rai Nivas and Sri Aurobindo Ashram and explore the medieval town of the French province, which has managed to preserve its French aura. Later travel to Thanjavur and stay two nights at hotel.

Day 6: Thanjavur After breakfast we enjoy an excursion to Thanjavur known as Granary of the South India, lying in the deltaic region of the famous river Cauvery and criss-crossed by lengthy network of irrigation canals. The city rose to glory during the later Chola Reign between 11th and 14th centuries AD and became the centre of learning and culture. It is also known for its exquisite handicrafts, bronzes and South Indian Musical Instruments. Evening free to explore local bazaar.

Day 7: Thanjavur - Trichy - Chettinad Today we travel to Chettinad, En route stop at Trichy. Visit Srirangam Temple located at River Kaveri and most famed 83 meter high rock on flat land of the city said to be 3800 million years old. Evening free to explore local bazaar and witness 18th century wooden carved houses. Later in the evening we enjoy a Chettinad cusine. Spices are so important to the cuisine â&#x20AC;&#x201C; marathi mokku (dried flower pods) anasipoo (star anise), tamarind and saunf (fennel seed) are amongst the favourites used.

Day 8: Chettinad - Madurai After breakfast we start our city sightseeing tour by visiting heritage mansions built more than 100 years ago and famous for its architecture, chandeliers and wooden craftsmanship. Continue visit to Museum and famous temple before travelling to Madurai, the centre of Tamil heritage and culture. Stay overnight in Hotel.

Day 9: Madurai - Thekkady Start our sightseeing tour of the city, known to be the capital of Pandyan King in 550AD. Visit magnificent Meenakshi Temple to experience stunning architects as the sculpted pillars tell the story of the beautiful

princess of Madurai and her marriage to Lord Shiva. Later travel to Thekkady, famous for its wildlife sanctuary and enjoy a spice plantation tour to see crops of cardamom, cinnamon, pepper and coffee. Stay two nights at Thekkady.

Day 10: Wildlife Sanctuary We wake up early to enjoy boat ride in the Periyar wildlife sanctuary to spot various wild animals, birds and reptiles. Later visit spice plantation and evening attend a local cooking class and learn to cook Kerala dishes one of the most intriguing cuisines of the world, in a relaxing environment, the class will be held in a traditional home set in the grounds of a working bio-organic spice garden.

Day 11: Backwaters Cruise Today we travel to Kumarakom and embark the houseboat. Enjoy cruising through palm fringed narrow canals winding through the vast expanse of paddy fields and the neat tiny hamlets lined up along either side of the canals are panoramic sights one can never forget. All meals and overnight on board.

Day 12: Alleppey - Cochin Disembark after breakfast and travel to Cochin. Afternoon visit the Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace and St Francis church, the oldest church built in 1503AD by Portuguese. In the evening explore the local bazaar of Fort Cochin and finish the day with witnessing Kathakali dance drama cultural show in the theatre. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Day 13: Cochin - Mumbai After breakfast transfer to board a flight to Mumbai to enjoy the glamour of Bollywood cinema and shopping malls full of designer labels and explore the local bazaar. Stay two nights at Mumbai.

Day 14: Mumbai Visit enjoy city sightseeing tour of Mumbai and visit Gateway of India, Hanging Garden, Dhobi Ghat and finish your day with exploring famous Crawford bazaar.

Day 15: Mumbai Departure After a leisurely breakfast the tour finishes with a transfer to the airport. Add return airfare from AU$1200* Low season *contact your agent or us for current or promotional fare.

STARTS

ENDS

TWIN PRICE (AU$)

SOLO PRICE (AU$)

14 Oct

28 Oct

$4027

$5578

25 Nov

09 Dec

$4027

$5578

09 Dec

23 Dec

$4027

$5578

2014

2015 26 Jan

$4027

$5578

23 Feb

09 Mar

$4027

$5578

30 Mar

13 Apr

$4027

$5578

14 Sep

28 Sep

$4279

$5928

12 Oct

26 Oct

$4279

$5928

16 Nov

30 Nov

$4279

$5928

21 Dec

$5928

04 Jan

04 Jan '16 $4279 2016 18 Feb $4279

08 Feb

22 Feb

$4279

$5928

07 Mar

21 Mar

$4279

$5928

04 Apr

18 Apr

$4279

$5928

12 Jan

$5928

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pher's Photogra e ic Cho

The Perfect Click PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR

15 DAYS / 14 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

3997.00

The Perfect Click tour is suitable for all kind of photography enthusiast. This very carefully planned photography tour takes you into the most vibrant places of Rajasthan. Our tour director will take you to perfectly timed shoots at some of the most famous and important sights covered in this programme. Every place provides different perspective, light, shade, landscape and people dressed in colourful local costumes to capture that perfect shot which every photographer looks for.

SMALL GROUP TOUR Starts: Delhi Ends: Delhi Grade: Easy to Moderate

Guaranteed Departure minimum 08 pax WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INCLUDED? 12 nights deluxe hotel accommodation with private facilities

The tour will start in Delhi which allows us to witness and capture this historic city as well as the modern New Delhi. We enjoy an overnight train journey to Jaisalmer; boarding the train itself is a unique experience as the station platform will be a chaotic jumble of businessman, suitcases, children, monkeys and dogs. At every stop, station vendors will wander past as they sell snacks and Masala Chai. It is an eye-opening and rewarding experience that really will immerse you in the true India. Our next stop is Jodhpur, also known as the blue city of Rajasthan, offering an amazing mix of culture and colour before travelling to Narlai, a small town which will offer us the opportunity to meet the local tribe and indigenous Mewari horses. One of the main highlights of this is tour is the amazing, colourful, heart pounding, vibrant Pushkar Camel Fair where we will spend three nights to ensure you get full opportunity to see and shoot every aspect of this wonderful fair. A hot air balloon shoot is included in the price, timed to let you capture the low sun, the long shadows, the smoke rising from a hundred campfires and also to give you a perspective of Rajasthan that is priceless. We make our way to another exciting destination Jaipur, the Pink City with its chaotic, intoxicating bazaars and the stunning Amber Fort, where you'll discover how useful an elephant can be as a shooting platform, before travelling to Agra, for the unmissable Taj Mahal and specially-organised sunrise and sunset shoots.

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

Travel by air-conditioned charter coach

On arrival at the airport, meet your tour manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay in Delhi.

Group assistance and transfers

Day 2: Delhi - Jaisalmer

03 nights deluxe tent in Pushkar

Hot air balloon ride in Pushkar

Street shoot, famous sights, surprises After breakfast we will visit Qutab Minar, one of the tallest stone carved towers; 17th century Jama Masjid and the unmissable buzzing chaos of Chandni Chowk. Your next adventure begins as we board overnight train in the evening for a rockin'-and-rollin' journey to Jaisalmer in air-conditions sleeper class. This by itself is a bit of a shooting opportunity: slices of railway life on board and on the platforms at train stops will have you reaching for your camera. Packed dinner and overnight on board.

Train fare Delhi-Jaisalmer in A/C sleeper

Day 3: Jaisalmer

Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified THO Tour Manager (minimum 08 people) Local English speaking Tour Guide Monument entry fees Elephant ride at Jaipur Camel ride at Jaisalmer Visit to Bishnoi village Horse ride to visit Rabari tribe in Narlai

A bottle of water while travelling All current collectable taxes 86 www.totalholidayoptions.com

Thar Desert, havelies, markets and moments We are now in the middle of the arid Thar Desert. Just before noon, we roll into

Jaisalmer, the Golden City to view its lovely sandstone hues and transfer to hotel. After a wash and change we'll head straight out to the city and start shooting. We begin with the town and bustling market. You'll come upon the opportunistic vignettes, the oncein-a-lifetime moments: the child playing in a doorway, the vivid flashes of a woman's sari. These candids and atmospherics will be made all the more beautiful because today is Dipawali Eve, the festival of lights. Late in the afternoon we'll head out to the sand dunes to look for camels. The sun will be low, kissing everything with a delicious glow. On our way back we'll stop outside the fort to picture shoot the illuminated city.

Day 4: Jaisalmer Sunrise dune shoot, Khuri Village, dunescapes, shepherds We wake up early for a sunrise shoot from the top of a sand dune as the first pink rays kiss the ancient fortress. We then go to Khuri Village and chat with the colourful residents

of this charming Rajasthani hamlet. Keep your camera charged as today is Dipawali, the Indian Festival of Light. Even in the most ordinary working town this festival is a feast for the eye. Your tour director will organise a genuinely privileged encounter, up close and friendly with a local family as they celebrate Diwali in their own home, enabling you to chat, connect and take photos in classic travel shooters documentary style.

Day 5: Jaisalmer - Jodhpur Roadside encounters, Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Blue City street shooting After breakfast we hit the road to Jodhpur. As we drive, we'll see glimpses of Thar desert life flash past. Droopy-eyed camels, exquisitely costumed Rajasthani women and the good-looking Marwari men trading jokes and goods over glasses of tea. Jodhpur will take your breath away. We'll shoot scintillating coloured beams of sunlight streaming through exquisite multi-hued glass panes; we'll amble past walls of ancient mirrors and marvel at the extravagant and sensuous Phool Mahal where concubines once danced to tempt a prince's libido. Then we proceed down to the Jaswant Thada, an exquisite, creamy white marble memorial contrasted against the azure desert sky. Then we're off to capture slices of Jodhpuri life, and the contrasts of local costumes set against those blue-daubed walls. Stay two nights in hotel.

Day 6: Rajastahni Village The Bishnoi Tribals, mud village, wildlife, personal encounters Today we head out to a rural Rajasthani village to experience and shoot the amazing world of the Bishnoi tribe. Bishnois are strict vegetarians and animals are considered as God and when we are invited into the cool shade of their huts we may well see a woman suckling an injured or weak black-buck calf. The women wear richly coloured clothes, while the men wear a spotless bright white. After lunch we'll amble back down to the Old Town. Our Tour Director may have a surprise experience up his sleeve: perhaps a picturesque shooting session of tying a Rajasthani turban, or if his friends are in, we might pop in and say hello to a local family in their home.

Day 7: Jodhpur - Narlai Marwari warrior horse shoot, heritage hotels, free evening In the morning we'll set off for a very special encounter going behind the scenes for a specially organised shoot experience with a very exclusive, rare and photogenic breed of Marwari horses with its great story of existence and current bloodline. We'll shoot a large group of these descendants of the Rajput warrior horses, pristine and unsaddled, by a quiet stream. We'll then follow the horses through all the key moments of a day's care and training. Evening is free to socialise, relax and explore.

Day 8: Narlai

Close encounter with the Rabari nomads, Opium in the den, Free evening The Rabaris are descendants of an ancient group of nomads and today many of them are semi-nomadic, living in small villages dotted over thousands of square kilometres of Rajasthan and its neighbouring states. We will join them to share a few hours of their lives with them, up close and personal. We'll arrive in time to capture early morning activity, as they primp their circular mudand-thatch homes, the women starting the day's cooking, fetching water from the village well, dressing themselves and their children while the men head out to graze their livestock. This is powerful, authentic, slice-of-life stuff, you'll be fascinated by their amazing jewellery, their tattoos and accessories. We enjoy an Opium ceremony before heading back for a relaxed evening.

Day 9: Narlai - Puskar

The Camel Fair, hot air balloon ride We'll leave Narlai after breakfast and head out to our tour highlight, the Pushkar Camel Fair, arriving there before noon. Like all the serious players, we're there early, when the livestock trading is at its most intense, the crowds fascinating but manageable, and the access for photography most open and accessible. Mind-boggling photo opportunities await as we head down the dunes to Pushkar lake: the turbaned men, the bejewelled and extravagantly draped women, the traditionally costumed kids, the camels, the goats and the cattle. As the sun drops to the horizon and sends out long shadows, we head out on a hot air balloon ride over Pushkar at sunset. After an hour's silent, drifting in the sky above Pushkar, we'll land and head off to dinner.

Day 10: Puskar

Sunrise with the camels, Pushkar Camel Fair, Pushkar town shoot, Hilltop temples We're up at dawn for a sunrise shoot, hoping to scoop up that soft light as it edge-lights the dunes, backlights wandering camels and gives even the ordinary a little touch of magic. We'll shoot the snake-charmers, the puppet shows and the haggling of the camel-dealers. In the evening, we head away from the lake to Pushkar town itself to see street stalls and traders, barbers and buccaneers, holy men and grafters before returning back to our accommodation for dinner. Evening is free for those who like to venture out for some more evening shoots.

Day 11: Puskar

Day 12: Puskar - Jaipur Ajmer, Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, Bazaars Early morning we slip off to the Pink City of Jaipur; so nicknamed because the entire city was painted bright pink in honour of the Prince of Wales’ visit in 1853 and stop en-route to capture tableaux in the towns of Ajmer. Jaipur’s royal origins will be a big influence on our shooting over the next couple of days: its forts, palaces and monuments make for spectacular photography under the clear desert sky. Enjoy sightseeing and a bit of architectural photography at Hawa Mahal, the Palace of the Winds and the magnificent Amber Fort. Experience some of Jaipur's fabled bazaars, where you can shop, shoot or simply gasp at the amazing array of wares. Stay two nights at hotel.

Day 13: Jaipur Elephants, sari dyeing workshop, bazaar We’ll start by visiting the elephants at the Amber Fort: we’ll find them in a brand new government-funded elephant village and with a bit of luck, we’ll see them playing in their special pool for great shooting material. Later we move to a sari-dyeing workshop for some of the most extravagant displays of colour you’ll ever get to point your autofocus. In the evening we explore local bazaar.

Day 14: Jaipur - Agra Itmad-ud-Dualah, Taj Mahal sunset shoot After breakfast we head out for four hours or so of rural driving while witnessing tooting lorries, camels, sacred cows, wandering pedestrians and holy men all apparently claiming sole ownership of the highway. We first visit Itimād-ud-Daulah's so called Baby Taj before arriving at the hotel for check in. A quick wash and change and we'll make our way to the Taj Mahal and shoot it inside, outside and at perfect sunset taking advantage of when the shadows are long and the sun tints the bone marble with orange. If time permits than explore Taj Ganj.

Day 15: Agra - Delhi Departure Taj Mahal sunrise shoot – Agra Fort Head out early for one last Taj Mahal shoot at sunrise and visit Agra Fort, a colossal red sandstone walled city where Shah Jahan, the emperor who built the Taj Mahal, spent the last seven years of his life under house arrest. On arrival in Delhi direct transfer to the airport where you board your return flight back home. Add return airfare from AU$1200* Low season

Full-on festivities – Camelback and camel buggies - Pushkar sunset By now, you'll have the classic shooter's feel for the kind of shot you really want to master at Pushkar. The backlit camels and hanging dust at sundown… the amazing colours, clothes, canopies and tattoos… the proud, handsome faces of the Marwari men and the flashing, dancing eyes of the women… One last glorious, smoky, exotic Pushkar sunset and a bit of jewellery shopping.

*contact your agent or us for current or promotional fare.

STARTS

ENDS

23 Oct

06 Nov

TWIN PRICE (AU$)

SOLO PRICE (AU$)

2014

$3997

$5297

2015 12 Nov

26 Nov

$4248

$5598

2016 06 Nov

20 Nov

$4496

$5949

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Top Seller

Pushkar Fair

Central Museum

Highlights of Rajasthan

17 DAYS / 16 NIGHTS

FROM AU$

3934.00

Rajasthan, ‘Land of Kings’ is steeped in romantic history, chivalry and valour. It boasts of some of the finest fortress palaces against the stark desert landscape with its highly coloured costumes of local, turbaned men and richly jewelled women, Havelies and villages, fairs and festivals. This tour takes you back to an era long gone by.

SMALL GROUP TOUR Starts: Delhi Ends: Delhi Grade: Easy Paced

Guaranteed Departure minimum 02 pax WHAT’S INCLUDED? Deluxe hotel accommodation with private facilities Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle

We begin in Delhi with The India Gate, Qutub Minar; the tallest stone built tower in the world, Jama Masjid; the largest mosque and explore the famous Chandni Chowk in a bicycle rickshaw. Enjoy a unique Indian train journey while travelling to Jaisalmer; an ancient city with hilltop fortress town that was once a major stop for silk and spice caravans. Tour the fort, visit impressive Jain temples and see the elaborately carved stone facades of Havelies. One evening, ride a camel across the Sam Sand Dunes at sunset. Continue to Jodhpur; a sprawling Art Deco masterpiece. We visit Mehrangarh Fort and enjoy a panoramic view of the Blue City. Stay in Udaipur and tour the famous Lake City known as India’s most romantic city. Explore significant cultural sites, walk through picturesque backstreets, browse bazaars for local crafts and painted miniatures. Heading to the “Pink City,” Jaipur, ride on an elephant to Amber Fort, entice by the Jantar Mantar which is a collection of architectural astronomical instruments which still provides accurate information, stop for a photo stop at the Hawa Mahal and search for souvenir at the backstreets. A bit of adventure with a possible tiger viewing at Ranthambhore National Park and other wild species like the deer, leopard, wild boar to name few before proceeding to our final destination to view the majestic Taj Mahal at Agra. With so much on offer, we look forward to welcoming you on this magical tour of Rajasthan.

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

Sightseeing as specified

On arrival at the airport, meet your tour manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay in Delhi

Meals as specified

Day 2: Delhi - Jaisalmer

THO Tour Manager (minimum 06 people)

An early breakfast and a short briefing by your tour manager, proceed for a sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi. Visit Jama Masjid, India Gate, Qutub Minar and explore Chandni Chowk bazaar. Late afternoon transfer to Delhi railway station, for the overnight train to Jaisalmer. Boarding the train is a unique experience on this tour as the station platform will be a chaotic jumble of businessman, suitcases, children, monkeys and dogs. At every stop, station vendors will wander through the train, as they sell samosas, pakoras, and sweet masala chai. It is an eye-opening and rewarding experience that really will immerse you in

Group assistance and transfers

Local English speaking Tour Guide Monument entry fees Camel ride at Jaisalmer Incredible Rural Experience in Jodhpur Elephant ride at Jaipur Boat ride at Udaipur Two wildlife safaris at Ranthambhore A bottle of water while travelling Train tickets Delhi-Jaisalmer in A/C sleeper class All current collectable taxes 88 www.totalholidayoptions.com

the true India. Bedding will be provided by train attended while you enjoy ride in airconditions sleeper class.

Day 3: Jaisalmer Arrive at Jaisalmer by late morning and transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon take a stroll down the narrow streets, view intricately carved houses and experience the lifestyle of the locals. Stay two nights at Jaisalmer.

Day 4: Jaisalmer Visit the 12th century Jain Temples, Folk Museum and colourful painted Havelies. In the afternoon take an excursion to the Khuri Village to see traditional mud and straw decorated houses.

Day 5: Jaisalmer - Pokaran Take a short drive to Pokaran, a beautiful small town surrounded with rocky, sandy

Patwonki Haveli, Jaisalmer

and five salt ranges. Explore the village and spoil yourself with an overnight stay at the luxurious 14th century Fort Pokara.

Day 6: Pokaran - Jodhpur Travel to Jodhpur a city founded in 1459 AD, it seems like an oasis in the vast desert. Afternoon visit Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan and evening explore bazaar to witness living proof of traditions, culture and its glorious past. Stay overnight at Jodhpur.

Day 7: Incredible Rural Experience

Lake Pichola, Udaipur

Day 11: Kota - Pushkar Visit City Fort Palace, Jagmandir Palace and a picturesque lake constructed in 1346AD before travelling to Pushkar. The evening is free to explore the town. Overnight at Pushkar.

Add return airfare from AU$1200* Low season *contact your agent or us for current or promotional fare.

STARTS

ENDS

TWIN PRICE (AU$)

03 Oct

19 Oct

$3934

$5097

14 Nov

30 Nov

$3934

$5097

26 Dec

$5097

23 Jan

11 Jan '15 $3934 2015 08 Feb $3934

20 Feb

08 Mar

$3934

$5097

20 Mar

05 Apr

$3934

$5097

17 Apr

03 May

$3934

$5097

18 Sep

04 Oct

$4179

$5397

25 Oct

$4179

$5397

06 Nov

22 Nov

$4179

$5397

18 Dec

$5397

Day 12: Pushkar - Jaipur Visit the Pushkar Lake and the only Hindu God Bramha Temple in the world. Later travel to Jaipur, one of the most vibrant cities of India. In the evening relax at the hotel or go for city walk. Stay two nights at Jaipur.

Day 13: Jaipur

Today after breakfast enjoy incredible rural experience by 4x4 vehicles through remote villages with picnic lunch, visit the village interiors to witness lifestyle of locals. Stay overnight at Jodhpur.

Start sightseeing with a visit to Amber Fort on the back of an elephant. Later continue to City Palace and the Observatory and take a photo stop at Hawa Mahal, also known as the wind palace, built in the 17th century.

Day 8: Jodhpur - Udaipur

Day 14: Ranthambhore

SOLO PRICE (AU$)

2014

$5097

Journey to Udaipur, en-route visit the famous temples of Ranakpur. The intricately carved figures of dancing goddesses on the pillars and dome are an architectural wonder. Stay two nights at Udaipur.

Today travel to Ranthambhore. Enroute capture spectacular views of the Aravalli ranges in your camera. Stay two nights at the resort.

09 Oct

Day 15: Wildlife Safari

15 Jan

Day 9: Udaipur

03 Jan '16 $4179 2016 31 Jan $4179

Today enjoy a morning and an afternoon game viewing by canter around an estimated area of 400 sq km of game reserve.

12 Feb

28 Feb

$4179

$5397

11 Mar

27 Mar

$4179

$5397

08 Apr

24 Apr

$4179

$5397

This morning visit Sahelion Ki Bari Gardens (the Garden for the Maids of Honour), the Folk Museum and Mewar Art Gallery. Later in the day we enjoy a cruise on Lake Pichola fringed with hills, palaces, havelis, ghats and temples. This evening enjoy dinner at a local restaurant overlooking Lake Pichola.

Day 10: Udaipur - Kota After breakfast travel to Kota. In the evening explore bazaars famous for Kota Doria fabric, beautiful pottery and stone craft, where you will witness the merge of the medieval and modern ages. Stay overnight at Kota.

Day 16: Ranthambhore Agra

$5397

Journey to Agra, the city known for the Taj Mahal, en-route visit Fatehpur Sikri known as the deserted city of Mughals. Arrive late afternoon and stay overnight at Agra.

Day 17: Agra - Delhi Departure In the morning visit the enduring Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal and the Agra Fort built by Emperor Akbar. Later in the day travel back to Delhi where the tour concludes with transfer to theâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; International Airport. Jama Masjid Delhi

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Khajuraho Temple

Bikaner camel festival

Varanasi silk weavers

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