North India 2019

YOUR DESTINATION SPECIALIST

Northern

2019

INDIA O F F T H E B E AT E N T R A C K 20 days Fully Escorted Tour departing 24 March 2019

20 Days

Outstanding Unique Cultural Experiences

ALL THE HIGHLIGHTS - DELHI TO THE HIMALAYAS Delhi - Haryana & Punjab - Himachal Pradesh - Lucknow & Agra - Ladakh

Northern India OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

Michele Bernoth, Senior Travel Adviser of Travel Masters, will be joining you for this amazing trip to Northern India. Michele's passion for travel, global destinations and off-the-beaten-track experiences, coupled with a passion for different cultures will ensure that your tour becomes one of your life’s most outstanding memories.

MICHELE WOULD LOVE YOU TO JOIN HER ON THIS MARVELLOUS HOLIDAY OF DISCOVERY!

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Magic and Mystery - Unique Small Group Exploratory Holiday

In The Shadows of the Spectacular Himalayas Delhi - Punjab - Himachal Pradesh - Lucknow - Agra - Ladakh Blessed with some of the most spectacular and beautiful landscapes in the world, vibrant Northern India is a kaleidoscope of colour and activity, seldom visited by westerners. Welcoming people, ancient indigenous traditions and majestic mountain vistas, all set under the lofty snow-capped Himalayas. Vibrant cultures, breathtaking panoramic scenery, ancient historic sites, living treasures, a huge variety of people and a choice of amazing Central Asian food flavours make this holiday of discovery an outstanding life experience.

Lucknow - Lucknow is the capital city of the state of Uttar Pradesh, situated in North India.

It is a metro city, that is the administrative headquarters of Lucknow District and Lucknow Division. Lucknow has always been known as a multicultural city and flourished as a cultural and artistic center of North India in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries.

Dharmsala - Home of the Dalai Lama and his Government-in-exile, authentic Tibetan enclave and Buddhist culture.

Shimla - Famous hill station and picturesque former summer capital of the British Raj, accessed by the UNESCO heritage-listed ‘Himalayan Queen’ mountain Toy Train (world’s greatest narrow gauge engineering achievement - 969 bridges & 103 tunnels)

Agra - Agra is widely recognised as one of the most artistically inspiring cities globally. It is a culturally rich destination with three UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri.

Amritsar - The famed Golden Temple, world Sikhism’s holiest pilgrimage site, spectacular India/Pakistan border evening retreat ceremony at Wagah (Berlin Wall of Asia), historic site of the 1919 Jalianwala Bagh massacre by the British Raj. Leh - Ladakh is remote mountain splendour, unique culture and Buddhist monasteries.

Little Tibet, 17th century palaces and medieval monasteries, breathtaking views of the soaring Himalayas, spectacular Kardung La Pass (highest motorable road in the world), one of the world’s last undiscovered destinations.

Pragpur/Garli & scenic Kangra Valley Centres of royal art and cultural heritage Delhi - Old (Mughal) and New (British colonial) Delhi including Raj Ghat (Tombs of the Gandhi & Nehru dynasty leaders), Qtab Minar heritage site, spectacular Chandi Chowk old city market street, UNESCO sites of Humayan’s mausoleum and the Red Fort, the Great Mughal Mosque, etc Plus spectacular rural drives, village visits, schools and hospitals.

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Itinerary at a Glance

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PUNJAB

On the partition of the sub-continent at Independence (1947), the larger part of British-administered Punjab went to Pakistan. Indian Muslims fled west into Pakistan, and Hindus east, in an exodus accompanied by horrific massacres. The Sikhs threw in their lot with India, which they considered a safer option than the homeland of their Muslim arch-enemies.

In 1966, after Sikh agitation, the smaller Indian part was divided into three - the predominantly Sikh Punjab, 96% Hindu Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh in the foothills of the Himalayas.

Today the prosperous states of Haryana and Punjab stretch north-west from the nation's capital Delhi towards the mountains of Kashmir and the border with Pakistan, occupying fertile richly-cultivated areas of the IndoGangetic plain, crossed by the five major tributaries of the Indus. With partition in 1947, Punjab’s main city of Lahore fell on the Pakistani side of the border, leaving Indian Punjab without a capital.

India’s first Prime Minister, Nehru, saw the opportunity to create a new city, unfettered by the traditions of the past, that would be symbolic of the future of the country.

Chandigarh became India’s first planned city, and jointly the state capital of both Punjab and Haryana, but oddly not a part of either! Since both states have laid claim to the city, it is a separate Territory (much like Canberra is for Australia) administered by the federal government.

to Kolkata (old Calcutta). This major trade route dates from the 4th century BC. It is through these two states that invaders came from the north-west via the Kyber Pass (Greeks, Turks, Mongols, Persians and Afghans) and where many historic battles were fought.

Sikhism became an increasingly powerful force in northern India under the tutelage of Guru Nanak, who lived in the Punjab from 1469 to 1539. The guru’s vision of a casteless egalitarian society found favour with both Hindus and Muslims, in spite of Moghul attempts to stamp it out. The militaristic and confrontational tenth guru Gobind Singh introduced a rigorous new orthodoxy called the Khalsa, or “Community of the Pure”. Only in the 1840s, after two bloody wars with the British, was the Khalsa army finally defeated. Thereafter, the Sikhs played a vital role for the British Raj. The relationship only soured after the Jallianwalla Bagh Massacre of 1919.

The region – known as India’s “bread basket” – is very important to the nation’s economy. Fertile soil, extensive irrigation, and improved agricultural techniques have made the region the most productive in the country, today’s granary of India, producing more than half of the home-grown wheat, rice and millet. Both states also have flourishing dairy and wool based industries.

The longest, oldest and most famous highway on the subcontinent is the Grand Trunk Route, stretching 2000kms from Peshawar (Pakistan) through Punjab and Haryana

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HIMACHAL PRADESH

Himachal Pradesh is India’s most popular hill state.

Sandwiched between Punjab and Tibet, its lowland orchards and maize fields sit below steep mountain slopes and forbidding ice fields. The fragrance of fresh flowers pervades these enchanting hills. It is a land of alpine villages, speckled with thousands of Hindu and Buddhist temples and monasteries.

Deep mountain gorges create separate districts with different customs, clothing, food, architecture and lifestyles - rock-cut shrines, shikara temples, colonial mansions, Buddhist monasteries, delicate timber houses and fluttering prayer flags. Remote villages are often home to semi-nomadic Gaddi (Hindus, with sheep, cattle & goats) and Gujjar (Muslim, with buffaloes) shepherds.

Deep in the foothills of the Himalayas, Shimla is Himachal’s capital and India’s most famous hill station. It is a curious and appealing mix of grand homes, churches and chaotic bazaars with breathtaking views. At an altitude of 2,159m, superb panoramas feature the snowy peaks of the Great Himalayas. In 1817 the village of Shimla was discovered by a team of British surveyors. Glowing reports of its beauty and climate filtered to the imperial capital of the Raj and its Viceroys at Calcutta, and within 50 years it was the official summer retreat for the British government of India.

The experience of riding the ‘toy’ railway on tracks less than a metre apart, is quite unique. This is the world’s greatest narrow-gauge engineering achievement. It traverses 96kms in approx six hours, crossing 969 bridges and passing through 103 tunnels, travelling via some

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of the most picturesque railway stations in the world.

We just ride the best of the line in about 2 hours. The miniature train meanders slowly in and out of forests and villages.

Large numbers of errant monkeys and the chaotic mass of corrugated rooftops covering Shimla’s colourful bazaar, provide an unmistakably Indian aspect to parts of the town. The bazaar is the hill station at its most vibrant, a maze of dishevelled shacks, stalls and minarets. Shimla’s single most impressive colonial monument, the old Viceregal Lodge, is Shimla at its most British.

Home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile, Daramsala (or more correctly, its upper town of McLeod Ganj) is one of Himachal’s most irresistible destinations. Originally a British hill station high above the floor of the Kangra Valley, McLeod Ganj has been transformed by an influx of Tibetan refugees. In 1959 the Dalai Lama, disguised as a soldier, fled Lhasa (Tibet) on a 15 day 1,250km trek into exile with six of his cabinet members, seeking a mountain home for his displaced people. Some 80,000 Tibetans followed him into exile in the days that followed. It is a place of pilgrimage that attracts Buddhists from all over the world.

LUCKNOW

Lucknow, the land of ‘Nawabs’ synonymous with lavish extravagance is well known for is ‘tehzeeb’ or extreme delicacy and cultivated manners. Fine living is a tradition, and social etiquette an integral part of life.

The proverbial "after you" is a legendary mannerism that echoes that inherent courtesy that a Lucknowi pays to every person regardless of station or rank.

Walter Burley Griffin (designer of early Canberra) is buried here in the local cemetery. Lucknow is also famous for its elaborate cuisine and ‘Chikankaari’ or exquisite shadow-work embroidery on fine muslin cloth.

The present day city was established by Nawab Asafud-Daula, when he shifted his capital from Faizabad to Lucknow in 1775. It emerged as an important political and cultural centre, rivaling Delhi in its patronage of art and literature. In 1856, the British annexed Avadh, exiling the last Nawab, Wajid Ali Shah, on grounds of misrule.

Lucknow was one of the most volatile centres, during the Mutiny of 1857, as it was a key administrative and military centre of the British East India Company.

Today, the modern city of Lucknow sprawls on the both sides of river Gomti and is a fine blend of traditions and modernity. It still retains the regal ambience and mannerisms, while adapting to the needs of the modern world. Incidentally, for Australians, it is interesting that

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LADAKH - ‘LITTLE TIBET’

Ladakh is a former Buddhist Kingdom of Western Tibet, high in the Himalayas, containing rugged scenery and spectacular monasteries. The capital Leh is strongly Buddhist. Culturally and geographically more like Tibet than India, Ladakh has the world’s oldest glaciers outside of the polar regions, and a large beautiful lake 150kms long. In the 19th century Ladakh was annexed by India, and now forms part of Jammu & Kashmir state.

As a trading post on the Indian feeder to the Great Silk Road between Central Asia and China, Leh attracted a wide variety of merchants from Kashmir, Kashgar (China), and Tibet. Nomadic herdsmen (Changpas) still form the bulk of the population in the area and can be seen living in black yak-hair tents on the mountains with their yaks, goats and sheep. They still provide the fine pashm goat wool.

Until very recently Ladakhi society has generally been very introverted, the economy surprisingly self-sufficient, and the culture quite distinct. Polyandry (where a woman has more than one husband) was common. Most people depended on subsistence agriculture, and the harsh climate contributed to a high death rate.

Originally, both Tibet and Ladakh followed the Bon religion, an early animistic faith. In Ladakh today, about half the population are monastic Buddhists where the 'Red Hat' Drukpa sect enjoys royal patronage. The reformist 'Yellow Hat' sect are Gelugpa Buddhists, and like the Dalai Lama, wear a yellow head-dress and maroon robes.

Monasteries (gompas) are places of worship, meditation and religious instruction. The prayer halls are decorated with intricate silk hangings, and shrines dedicated to

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Buddha are traditionally lit by smokey pungent butter lamps. The monasteries are often sited on spectacular mountain ridges, adding to the attraction of the landscape while remaining a central part of Ladakhi life. Ladakh also has a large number of Shia Muslims, whose mosques and imambarras are influenced by Persian architecture.

Buddhists usually wear dark red, while Muslims and nomadic tribes often use undyed material. The head dress varies from a simple woollen cap with a rolled brim, to high embroided lambskin hats, studded with turquoise and lapis lazuli. Some of these hats are precious enough to be handed down as heirlooms.

Mysterious Leh sits in a fertile side valley of the Indus River, with its famous old palace sitting precariously above. The Main Bazaar street hosts a colourful vegetable market where Ladakhi women sell local produce while they knit and chat. The Old Village and its maze of narrow lanes, sits on the hillside below the palace. Colourful Leh is one of the world’s hidden cultural gems, visited by only the fortunate few.

Itinerary

Humayun's Tomb - Delhi Sun, March 24: Arrive New Delhi The capital of India – New Delhi welcomes as you arrive at the IGI International Airport. Our representative will receive you at the airport in the arrival hall after you clear your immigration and customs. You will be accorded traditional welcome with garlands made of marigold garlands before you board your bus. Transfer to our hotel.

Visit Asia's largest spice market, where spices, which in times gone by were once so valuable that they caused invasions and fierce battles, are still traded! On the way, you have the option of sampling some of Delhi’s delicious street food from Jalebis to samosas!

Delhi is a curious mix – of the traditional and the modern.

Prepare to be charmed by the seamless intermingling of the old and the new. Monuments that have stood witness to the rise and fall of empires stand harmoniously by new age restaurants and bars that offer a variety of world cuisines!

Delhi’s recorded history dates back, to over 1500 BC, and each kingdom that ruled over the city left an indelible mark on it.

Overnight at: The Claridges Room: Claridges Room (One level above lead-in category) Mon, March 25: In Delhi Post breakfast, you will enjoy privately guided tour of Old Delhi. Start with the visit of Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. After this visit, hop on to your rickshaws and enter the colourful, narrow alleys and gullies of Old Delhi. Discover the gems of the main street of Chandni Chowk. Then proceed into busy streets which are forever bustling with the clamour and routine of daily trade, offering a glimpse of life back in the day and age when the city started out as a commercial hub. Visit the famous firecracker market, see exquisite silver jewellery, antique items, perfumes and piping hot, scrumptious jalebis, an Indian deep-fried desert. Proceed to Kinari Bazaar or wedding market where one can buy all the paraphernalia required for an Indian wedding. At night, the gold and silver decorated borders, laces and colourful embellishments in this lane twinkle, glitter and shine, casting flirtatious looks upon innocent passers-by.

Here you will have a photo-stop at Red Fort, the most opulent Fort and Palace of the Mughal Empire. The fort is Shah Jehan's symbol of power and elegance, built behind red sandstone walls. Its main gate (Lahore Gate) faces Chandni Chowk, the perpetually congested avenue heading west from the Red Fort is filled with twisting lanes, small streets and crowded bazaars. If you peer through a portico you may see a man getting shaved, silver being weighed, or any other conceivable form of intense commerce.

After this enjoy lunch at Chor Bizzare restaurant located in Old Delhi. Chor Bizarre, India’s first theme restaurant captures the spirit of the chor bazaar or thieves market within its kaleidoscopic interiors and serves authentic regional Indian cuisine in a unique atmosphere. Pirates gallery, an attic and quirky are some of the popular descriptions for its eclectic decor. Each dining area is furnished with items that refuse to match; we forgot to steal the matching pieces!

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The Golden Temple - Amritsar

We will also include a visit to Ugrasen ki Baoli (also known as Agrasen ki Baoli) – which is a well preserved beautiful stepwell, one of our ancient ways to conserve rain water.

It is a 60-meter long and 15-meter wide historical step well in the heart of the city. It is believed that it was originally built by the legendary king Agrasen and rebuilt in the 14th century. The design of Humayun’s Tomb inspired Emperor Shahjehan to build the world of the world – Taj Mahal in Agra.

In the heart of New Delhi, the bustling capital of India, a lotusshaped outline has etched itself on the consciousness of the city's inhabitants, capturing their imagination, fuelling their curiosity, and revolutionising the concept of worship.

This is the Bahá'í Mashriqu'l-Adhkar, better known as the "Lotus Temple". With the dawning of every new day, an ever-rising tide of visitors surges to its doorsteps to savour its beauty and bask in its serenely spiritual atmosphere.

Since its dedication to public worship in December 1986, this Mother Temple of the Indian sub-continent has seen millions of people cross its threshold, making it one of the most visited edifices in India. From its high-perched pedestal, this 'Lotus' casts its benevolent glance over vast green lawns and avenues covering an expanse of 26 acres of land. Its soothingly quiet Prayer Hall and tranquil surroundings have touched the hearts of the Temple's numerous visitors, awakening in them a desire to trace its inspirational source and capture a bit of its peace for themselves.

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Overnight at: The Claridges Room: Claridges Room (One level above lead-in category) Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Tue, March 26: Delhi/Amritsar Post breakfast, you will be transferred to airport for your flight to Amritsar (Flight 6E-367, departs 12:00). Meet upon arrival and you will be transferred to your hotel.

Amritsar - The word Amritsar means "the holy pool of nectar". In 1573, work began on digging the holy pool.

In 1601, Harmandir Sahib completed. In 1604, Guru Granth Sahib installed. Alongside people representing 52 professions settled. In Maharaja Ranjit Singh's time Amritsar had superseded Lahore as the pre-eminent city of the Orient. Amritsar is one of the most ancient and fascinating cities of India. It is an important seat of Sikh history and culture. Being the gateway for travelers coming to India on the overland route from central Asia it soon became the centre of various commercial activities.

Evening, visit Golden Temple and see the magnificent “Palki Ceremony”, wherein the Holy book goes to sleep amongst big procession.

Overnight at: Ranjit’s Svaasa Room: Svaasa Suite (lead – in category) Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Wed, March 27: In Amritsar Post breakfast, proceed for the sightseeing of Amritsar and visit Golden Temple (Sikh temple), the historical Jalianwala Bagh.

Golden Temple: During Maharaja Ranjit Singh's reign the lower half of the temple was decorated with marble while the entire upper half was inlaid with copper covered over by gold plate: hence its new name, the Golden Temple.

Free kitchen and recitation of the divine word never cease here. Its four gates invite everyone from all directions.

Lotus Temple

Akal Takhat: Sixth Guru Sri Har Gobind had got it constructed as a seal of temperal authority symbolising the unity of spiritual and temporal life in 1609.

Tower of Baba Atal Rai: Built in the memory of Baba Atal Rai, son of Sri Har Gobind Ji, this octagonal nine-storied structure about 50 meters high has several beautiful frescos on its walls, relating to the life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Jallianwala Bagh: Martyrs' Memorial built in the shape of eternal flame of liberty is situated on the outskirts of Golden Temple. Here, about 1500 to 2000 persons who were attending a peaceful meeting during the freedom movement fell under the bullets of the British General Dyer, on April 13, 1919. The British Queen Elizabeth II and her husband laid a wreath at the Memorial on 14 October 1997.

Return to the hotel for lunch. Later this evening proceed to visit Wagah Border - The final frontier, Wagah about 28 kms. From Amritsar is the only border crossing between India and Pakistan It’s an interesting experience especially at sunset when the 'Retreat' ceremony takes place with the BSF on the Indian Side of the Border. The changing of the guards and the ceremonial lowering of the flags ceremony is carried out with great pomp. As the sun goes down, nationalistic fervor rises and lights are switched on marking the end of the day amidst thunderous applause.

Enjoy dinner at hotel.

Overnight at: Ranjit’s Svaasa Room: Svaasa Suite (lead – in category) Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Thu, March 28: Amritsar/Dharamshala – drive (5 hours approx.)

Post breakfast, drive to Dharamshala through Himalayan foothills (light refreshments will be provided in the cars).

Upon arrival, check in at hotel followed by lunch.

Dharamshala is best known as the home of the Dalai Lama. In fact, the Tibetan government in exile is based just uphill in Gangchen Kyishong, and most travellers stay uphill in the busy little traveller town of McLeod Ganj.

Dharamshala itself has a good museum and a busy bazaar.

Reminder of the day is at leisure.

In the evening, enjoy Dinner at your hotel.

Overnight at: Norling House Room: Superior Room (lead – in category) Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

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Kalka/Shimla by Toy Train Fri, March 29: In Dharamshala Post breakfast, proceed for a guided tour of Norbulingka (a Tibetan centre for learning and preserving traditional Tibetan art and craft). At Norbulingka you visit various workshops where you see the artists making different kind of traditional artefacts. Doll Museum and the Buddhist temple at Norbulingka are worth visiting.

Later drive to Naddi village from where you get to see the beautiful view of the snow-covered peaks of Dhauladhar mountain range. From Naddi we take you for two hours’ beautiful hike in the forest to Bhagsu Nag village. It is an easy hike through mixed forest of oak, rhododendron and cedar forest. Enroute you come across some meditation huts and a Buddhist stupa in the middle of the forest where Tibetan monks live and practice meditation all year round. The hike ends at Bhagsu Nag. Lunch at Ashoka international Restaurant in Bhagsu.

After lunch, visit H.H. Dalai Lama Temple (Tsuglagkhang). is the most important Buddhist monument in Mcleod Ganj. Although a relatively modest structure, it enshrines three magnificent images, including an enormous gilt statue of Shakyamuni, statues of Avalokitesvara and Padamasambhava, or Guru Rinpoche, the Indian scholar who introduced Buddhism and Tantric teachings to Tibet in the 8th century. Later free time on your own to explore the colourful town of Mcleod Ganj.

In the evening, enjoy 1 hour Tibetan Cultural show followed by dinner at your hotel.

Overnight at: Norling House Room: Superior Room (lead – in category) Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Sat, March 30: Dharamshala/Garli – drive (75 kms approx.)

Post breakfast, drive to Kangra to visit the historical Kangra Fort. After visiting fort, continue your drive through beautiful wide and open Kangra valley to reach Masrur Rock Cut Temple. This is one of the unique temples in

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Himalayas. Believed to be 8th century old temple is cut of of one single sand stone rock. After visiting the temple continue drive to Pragpur. Check in Hotel Judges Court.

Enjoy lunch at the hotel. Remainder of the day is at leisure.

Overnight at: Chateux Garli Room: Mixture of Deluxe & Premium rooms (a level above lead-in category) Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinne

Sun, March 31: In Garli Post breakfast, take short walking tour of Pragpur village.

The ambience of the Heritage Zone of Garli-Pragpur is zealously protected by the local residents. In their endeavour that Garli - Pragpur retains its unique character, panchayats preserve their heritage buildings and advise on new construction. Several heritage structures are now being restored using original techniques but with modern facilities to facilitate tourism. Later drive to a nearby village of Dada Siba where you visit an old Radha Krishna Temple. Drive back to Pragpur for lunch.

Post lunch, visit the nearby village of Garli. In the evening, enjoy dinner at hotel.

Overnight at: Chateux Garli Room: Mixture of Deluxe & Premium rooms (a level above lead-in category) Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Traditional Tibetan locals

Mon, April 1: Garli/Shimla – drive (6 - 7 hours approx.)

Post breakfast, Drive to Shimla through unwinding roads of this beautiful hill state from the British era.

Upon arrival check-in at hotel.

Shimla is the capital of the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, in the Himalayan foothills. Once the summer capital of British India, it remains the terminus of the narrow-gauge Kalka-Shimla Railway, completed in 1903. It is also known for the handicraft shops that line The Mall, a pedestrian avenue, as well as the Lakkar Bazaar, a market specialising in wooden toys and crafts.

Remainder of your day will be at leisure.

OPTIONAL:

In the evening, we can arrange a presentation on Shimla by an author and expert at your hotel in a private room/hall.

Overnight at: The Oberoi Cecil Room: Premier Valley View Room (two level above lead – in category) Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Tue, April 2: In Shimla Post breakfast, proceed for a half day heritage tour of Shimla. The best ways to explore this lovely hill town is on foot. Walk through the Lanes & Trails of this British Himalayan Town and know about the stories of the bygone era. The British built this town and left legacies.

If you can manage to have an Ariel view of Shimla you will notice that the town is a museum of architecture.

Victorian, post Victorian, gothic, Georgian, Tudor, MocTudor, Bavarian, Neo, Lutyens, and modern all examples are there at one place.

Highlights of the Walk: The most imposing and attractive structures which include castles, temple, heritage hotels, banks and government offices are the highlights of this walk. They are some of the best examples of British Architecture of the era and reveal history and various interesting stories of the glorious past. They will compel you to glance at them from every angle. A brief description of some of them is given here.

Post lunch in the city, visit Jakhu Temple – since the access to the temple is very steep, we recommend driving up and on return it would be ideal to walk down and on the way, stop at Book Café.

Book Cafe - run by prisoners of Shimla Jail

In Shimla, the Prisoners at a Shimla Jail are running a cafe on the ridge during the day. The cafe is just above Shimla’s iconic Ridge and has free Wi-Fi access, and offer books & magazines to read for the visitors. They serve fast food items.

With a seating for 40, the most important part of Shimla Book cafe is that is being run by prisoners who are currently serving a sentence at Shimla Jail. The cafe is an example of how prisoners can be transformed as they also want to lead a happy life. People coming to this Shimla cafe interact with prisoners and enjoy pizzas and other bakery products made by them.

The entire length of this walk comes under Shimla’s Heritage Zone. Christ Church is the most prominent landmark of Shimla and from here the walk extends West towards the Viceregal Lodge.

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Darshan Singh, Jai Chand and Yograj are serving life sentences for murder and other charges at a Shimla Jail. The local municipal corporation and the Shimla jail authorities have allowed Darshan, Jai, Yograj to run a cafe during the day. The first-of-its-kind cafe in the country is funded by the state's Tourism Department. It is open daily from 10AM until 9PM. At night, the prisoners return to the jail.

Note: The experience does not include cost of any food or beverage, which can be bought and paid directly as per consumption.

OPTIONAL In the evening, we can arrange a live performance in a local theatre.

Return to your hotel.

Overnight at: The Oberoi Cecil Room: Premier Valley View Room (two level above lead – in category) Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Wed, April 3: In Shimla Post breakfast, spend the day in a Himalayan Village with Dhami Royalty followed by a Royal Lunch.

The valley from the Viceregal Lodge dips and the forest begins, generally of oak tree and extends towards Dhami to the west of Shimla. Dhami, nearly 30 kilometres from Shimla, at that time was a Princely State. In the early years of 19th century when Shimla hills were under the aggression of Gurkha, the rulers of Dhami played a vital role to expel them by helping the army of East India Company. Rana Govardhan Singh the then ruler continued supporting British during the Mutiny in 1857 and then till his death in 1867.

Dhami House is the ancestral home of Kunwar Dushyant Singh that he inherited from his father Rana Dilip Singh who was the last formal ruler (1920-1987). The architecture of the house is a blend of English and traditional style.

Mainly made of wood and stone the house looks modern

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from outside but its rooms are decorated with a large collection of antiques.

Every village have its own history and so has Village Dhami. A 45 minutes’ drive through the lush green forests, rolling meadows and some villages around Shimla brings us to the hospitality of Kunwar Dushyant Sing. Dhami is surrounded by thick forests which have been the hunting grounds of the British Aristocrats.

Walk through the Village with Kunwar Dushyant Singh (subject to his presence during your visit). We begin our walk with Kunwar Sahib, a one-hour walks through the village and the trails around Dhami brings you close to hill life and nature. The villagers waiting for their bus to Shimla, a shopkeeper basking in sun outside his shop or the women carrying hey on their head are the common site of Dhami. You might also get disturbed by a tweeting of a bird from the tree next to you.

Bird Watching: Dhami is a natural bird’s park. You don’t have to carry alarm clock with you as a whistling thrush arrives your window and give a call. Franklins can be heard chirping anywhere in the area. Apart from them magpies, starlings, wobblers, myna, bulbul, street thrush, tits and many pheasants are a common site.

Lunch: Kunwar Dushyant’s wife a descendant of the Royal family from Madhya Pradesh is a perfect host and cook. Get introduced to the local cuisine or just enjoy the regular meal. You will have to think seriously in before you say no to the food served to you, as the aroma keeps pushing you to the dining room.

Remainder of your day will be at leisure.

Overnight at: The Oberoi Cecil Room: Premier Valley View Room (two level above lead – in category) Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Thu, April 4: Shimla/Chandigarh – drive & fly to Delhi Post breakfast, you will be drop at beautiful little Shimla railway station for toy train ride to Kandaghat.

Afternoon explore the beautiful sights of Muslim era with your private guide – Imambara, Asifi Husainabad, Rumi Gate and Clock Tower (this will last for about 2,5 hrs).

On arrival at Kandaghat station, you’ll be picked up and drive to Chandigarh. En-route you will stop at a Himachal Tourism Guest House for Lunch. Post lunch, you will be transferred to the Chandigarh airport to board flight to Delhi (Flight 9W-2654, departs 6:05pm).

Driving past Sadat Ali & Begum Tombs and the ‘Chatar Manzil’ (Outside view only), we reach one of the world’s most unique architecture, 'Asifi Imambara'. This monument was built as a relief measure for a devastating famine, in order to provide employment to the subjects of the state by Nawab Asif-ud-Daula'. This is the world’s biggest hall that is devoid of any pillar support, wood, iron beams or concrete walls. Salute the “Nawab” (Prince) lying in peace inside and proceed to see his noble work.

Also see the 'Rumi Darwaza' or the Turkish Gate and the Asfi Mosque.

Upon arrival in Delhi, transfer to hotel for the overnight stay.

Overnight at: Pullman New Delhi Aerocity Room: Deluxe Room (lead – in category) Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Fri, April 5: Delhi/Lucknow by flight Post breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport to board your flight to Lucknow (Flight 9W-753, departs 10:35am). Met upon arrival & transferred to your hotel.

The capital city of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, the erstwhile Avadh or Oudh still preserves the spirit of the past era.

Equally divided by the Gomati River, this city has grown as a metropolitan after a constant effort for two centuries.

The Nawabi culture is reflected in the leisurely habits, the architecture, etiquette, mouth-watering cuisine and elegance.

For all its modernity, Lucknow remains true to its cultural past, impeccable manners, a courtly diction, and a love for the arts and all beautiful things. It has a considerable involvement with Urdu poetry and Hindustani Music, which is to be found everywhere. The city is dotted with remnants of its rich historic past in the form of mosques, palaces, mansions and mausoleums. Lucknow is also known for its elaborate cuisine and 'Chikankaari', the exquisite shadow-work embroidery on fine muslin cloth.

Though the city is no longer gay and lavish as it was in the past but it is still a serene city of gardens, great beauty and Old-World courtliness. Upon arrival in Lucknow you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Now we reach the Husainabad Complex - The Clock Tower is the highest Clock Tower in Asia and in some ways superior to its counterpart, 'Big Ben'. Today the clock stands motionless but has witnessed all times, the good, the bad and the ugly. Now enter the Babylon of East, The Husainabad Imambara - known for its beauty and pieces of décor. This was built in 1840 by Mohammad Ali Shah and is still considered to be a sacred address by the natives. The beautiful chandeliers, silver seat, sandalwood décor and calligraphy on the walls all are so creative. Admire each one and bow down to the Nawab and his Mother sleeping inside. Later we will visit the Husainabad Picture Gallery that houses life-size hand painted portraits of Nawabs of Awadh each with a distinct and a unique history. Paintings here are quite lively as if each would speak to tell you the tales of Awadh that was. Also see the Satkhanda that stands as Lucknow’s incomplete leaning tower of Pisa.

After this tour, we will reach 'Chowk' the oldest market place of Lucknow to shop for the unique crafts of this Nawabi City. We walk in the by-lane of Chowk called ‘Gol Darwaza’ –a place that was once a seat of numerous ‘Kothas’ (a small entertainment studios where nautch girls performed in the evenings) now is a market place that is known to house the best of handicrafts and Chikan work. A heritage walk here will showcase the culture of this fabled city and take you into the bygone era.

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Return to your hotel and freshen up. Evening proceed on a heritage walking tour of Old Lucknow – very interesting experience.

Lucknow is not just any other city, but a chapter that unfolds itself each time one visits this epicentre of culture. We have exclusively designed a Heritage Walk, discovering the lanes and the by lanes of Chowk. On this walking tour, we explore the unexplored and explain the inexplicable. Understand how vast a history, this city of superlatives holds. History in Lucknow, stretches beyond the concrete walls of its monuments, spreads into the lanes of Lucknow and has many more nuances that can only be understood and appreciated in the lanes and by lanes of Chowk.

We have been discovering and rediscovering this city since its own inception in 1994 and every time we design or redesign our products, we stumble upon a new piece of history that we wish to share with our guests. Heritage Walk is our endeavour of sharing our discoveries and knowledge that make Lucknow look so new and fresh every time. Our expert Walk Leaders take you into the bygone era of this city that is a world unto itself.

Overnight at: Lebua Lucknow Room: Executive room (lead-in category) Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Sat, April 6: In Lucknow Post breakfast you will explore the British era of Lucknow with your private guide.

We visit the architectural marvel of age, La Martiniere School which was designed by the Frenchman MajorGeneral Claude Martin as a palatial home. Even to this day, Claude martin is a revered personality in the city of Lucknow. Later we visit Dilkusha Palace & Gardens - This palace was built by a European architect for the Nawab - Sadat Ali Khan. The Nawab only saw this building on its completion and the first words that came to his lips were "Dil Khush Hua" meaning "My Heart is Pleased", thus it was aptly named "Dilkusha". The palace and gardens

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were used as a country house and hunting lodge by the Nawab and his begums. Light game consisting of deer and bears were kept in the surrounding woods for the Begums to indulge in some hunting themselves. Part of the palace was also used as a Maternity Home for the wives of the Nawabs.

Driving past Sikanderbagh, the palace complex that fell prey to the British troops and the Mutineers in the revolt of 1857 and what remains is a gate and a few walls as a testimony to the bloody events of that period, we will now reach the Lucknow Residency a place where speechless walls are known to speak the gruesome tale of the 1857 mutiny. The sprawling British campus witnessed nothing less than 3000 deaths to keep the Union Jack flying.

Yet the British could not defend their domain and the buildings were lost to the high spirited and enthusiastic Indians who fought till their last breath. The trees, bullet sprinkled walls, unusable canons, worn out firearms all cry aloud with the burden of deaths that were witnessed here. We also visit the graveyard to pay our homage to named and unnamed soldiers who gave up their lives in the defence of The Residency.

You will also visit the Grave of Walter Burley Griffin, designer of Canberra, Australia. Walter Burley Griffin, born on 24th November 1876, was an architect. He designed Australia’s capital city Canberra. His specialty has been to develop L-shaped plan, carport and reinforced concrete.

In his early years Griffin was quite influenced by Prairie School based in Chicago. His partnership with his wife, Marion Mahony Griffin at work proved to be quite a success. They together worked to create about 350 designs in just 28 years. The couple was also designing furniture, interiors and other household items. Griffins moved to Lucknow (India) after they got the contract of an agriculture exhibition design to be held here. Upon arrival, they fell in love with Lucknow and made it their home. The landmark buildings that Griffin designed in Lucknow were, Pioneer Press Building, Interiors of Capitol Cinema House, a Zenana at the Jhangirabad, Tagore

Library at the University of Lucknow and a few private houses as well.

Griffin died in early 1937, just 5 days after a gall bladder surgery that went wrong at King George’s Medical College in Lucknow. He was then buried in Lucknow while his wife, Marion Mahony Griffin returned to Chicago.

In the afternoon, you will visit Kotwara House, the abode of the legendary film maker, fashion designer, painter, poet, rather a couple with many feathers in their cap of creativity, Muzaffar & Meera Ali. Their Lucknow house is in the area of the erstwhile palace complex of Qaisar Bagh and the very aura, interiors and artefacts that adorn their living space is no less than a living museum of sorts.

We will have access to the living spaces of the house to understand how this creative couple live, work and eat.

We enjoy a great afternoon seeing their collection and workshop of Chikan, Zari and Mukaesh with an opportunity to interact with artisans at work. Also enjoy a short dance clip from Muzzafar’s landmark films including Umrao Jaan or may be watch one of his unreleased masterpiece over a cup of hot tea at his home. If we are lucky we get to meet Muzzafar and Meera Ali as well (Operational every day except Sundays).

When in Lucknow, how can the talk about the food be left behind. This evening, we will take a Culinary Walk down the lane adjacent to Akbari Gate. Tasting the best of meat dishes from the Awadhi menu from the places, where they actually originated from and have still been able to thrive on their own in the era of MacDonald and KFC. You will experience the concept of food loyalty and the real taste of the original Tundey Kebabs, Raheem’s Nihari and Mobeen’s Pasanda Kebabs. Observe the chefs at work in these small and dingy shops that seldom look hygienic, but no one has ever fallen sick.

To take this tour, you need to be a foodie with closed eyes, so that your taste buds work to their best of abilities.

Try all of these, while a culinary curator (Walk Leader) explains the history and the recipe of each of these.

Sun, April 7: Lucknow/Agra drive Post breakfast, at around 8am drive to the city of Love – Agra which will take about 4 hrs on the new express highway (excluding en-route stops). En-route you will deviate from the highway before Agra for about 20 minutes to get to a place called Kannauj.

Kannauj is known for manufacturing perfumes – locally known as attar or ittar or ittr. Kannauj has a long historical background and it had perfume trading with Middle East.

Some suggestion says that perfumes were supplied to Mughal emperors during their reigns in India nearly 300 years. Due to the key role of perfume production in Kannauj, the city is known as "the perfume capital of India" and Kannauj is to India what Grasse is to France.

The attar manufacture skill passed through generation to generation. When a craftsman explains about their family involvement in this industry, he says "My family has been working in this field since three centuries and my son is the 30th generation". They make perfumes from natural resources like flowers, musk, camphor, saffron, soil (for scent of wet earth), henna etc. The natural perfume has free of alcohol and chemical, except for some productions. Normally for production a small bottle of scent, it needs about 15 days! Kannauj perfume has local and international markets and about 20 companies export to foreign countries such as UK, USA, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Singapore, France, Oman, Qatar, etc.

You will visit the Fragrance and Flavour Development Centre for an interactive session on perfume making.

After the experience, continue your drive to Agra and check-in to your hotel.

Agra, the city of Taj Mahal, a poem in white marble built in the 16th century by Emperor Shahjahan as a monument of love. Agra was once the capital of the Mughals and the relics of their glory are scattered all over the city. From the Taj Mahal to the massive Agra Fort, the delicately carved Itmad-ud-Daulah’s tomb to Akbar’s deserted majestic capital Fatehpur Sikri; Agra is India’s best-known

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destination and a must on any program.

Overnight at: ITC Mughal Room: Mughal Chambers (one level above lead-in category) Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Mon, April 8: Agra/Delhi drive At Sunrise, you will visit one of the wonders of the world - Taj Mahal.

Early in the morning you will visit the world-renowned Taj Mahal at sunrise. Referred to as one of the wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal in Agra is the epitome of tourism in India and is celebrated for its architectural magnificence and aesthetic beauty. A symphony in white marble, a tribute to eternal love, it was built by the Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. There are tombs of Mumtaz and Shahjahan within the mausoleum.

Done in white marble, it took 22 years and over 20,000 workers and craftsmen to complete this rhapsody in stone (1630-52 AD). The main structure is set amidst landscaped gardens. While on three sides it is surrounded by high walls, the rear is bound by the river Yamuna.

Though the Taj appears to be amazingly perfect from almost any angle, it is the close-up marble inlay work, which is really astounding.

Return to your hotel for breakfast. Post breakfast, you will make your way to one of the magnificent forts of Mughal era – Agra Fort.

When the Mughal Emperor Akbar established his supremacy in Northern India, he began his first architectural venture, rebuilding the Agra Fort as a beautiful fort palace. The work was completed by his son and grandson, highlighting the Mughal’s ability to blend defensive and decorative architecture. Richly decorated with marble and mosaic, it was in a part of this fort that Shah Jahan spent the last years of his life, imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb. His private quarters where he was confined, has a magical view of the Taj Mahal across the river Yamuna. Today this is a World UNESCO Heritage Site.

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Later, you will also visit one of the beautiful yet lesser known monument – Hessing’s Tomb (also locally known as Red Taj Mahal for some). This is the tomb of Col. John William Hessing who was Dutch and came to Ceylon as a free-lance adventurer. He participated in the battle of Kandy in 1765. Then he served Nizam of Hyderabad and, in 1784, entered the service of the Maratha Chief Mahadji Sindhia. He fought several battles under the command of the French General Do Bolgne. Mahadji trusted him the most, and Hessing accompanied him to Poona in 1792. On Mahadji’s death there in 1794, he returned to Agra which was held by the Marathas. He was made Commandant of the Fort and its Mapatha Garrison in 1799. He died here on 21 July 1803. The Fort was captured by the British the same year. His tomb was built by his wife and children.

Post lunch drive to Delhi (4 hrs approx.) and check-in at your hotel.

Overnight at: Pullman New Delhi Aerocity Room: Deluxe Room (lead – in category) Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Tue, April 9: Delhi/Leh – by flight Early this morning, you will be transferred to airport for your flight to Leh (Flight G8217, departs 8:40am). You set out for one of the most sensational and spectacular flight in the world. The destination of this flight is known as the small capital, Leh, the largest city in the Ladakh region.

You’ll go directly deep in the Himalaya Mountains and up to the Ladakh plateau. The flat Indian plains are quickly superseded by the deep valleys and white peaks of the Himalayas, which are in turn replaced by the pale pink and brown nuances of the high Tibetan desert plains. The hour-long flight with spectacular scenes features views of the 7000m Nun-Kun Mountain. Upon arrival, you are met at the Leh (3500 M) airport, the crisp air of Leh welcomes you to this unpolluted Himalayan destination. You will be welcomed and escorted to our hotel where room has been booked for your ready occupancy. A little briefing on the day’s program and a breakfast, you are advised to rest for the first half of the day to acclimatising to the high altitude and rarefied air.

Remainder of the day is free to acclimatise.

Thiksey Monastery - Leh

Lunch at the Resort. Later in the evening a welcome cultural dance by a group of Local Dancers & Musicians.

Overnight at: Saboo Resort Room: Cottage Suite (lead – in category) Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Wed, April 10: Leh – Shey – Thikshey – Hemis – Leh Today after early tea/coffee, you are driven to Thiksey monastery situated towards the East of Leh picturesquely on a hill-lock, which also houses a two-story stucco statue of Maitreya Buddha seated on a lotus, upon arrival you witness the monks gathered in the assembly hall for the Morning for a Prayer Ceremony, which begins before sunrise at 6AM, you hear the monks chant their prayers with the beats. After that you will be guided to visit the other parts of the monastery followed with a breakfast at the Thiksey monastery restaurant.

After breakfast, you will be driven two kilometres ahead of Thiksey monastery for a photo halt along the banks of River Indus and then you will drive to visit Hemis monastery another 30 kilometres southwest of Thiksey; Hemis is the largest and the wealthiest monastery in Ladakh. Hemis festival is considered amongst the biggest and most famous of the monastic festivals, and is dedicated to Padmasambhava. Every 12 years, the gompa's means a (monastery) greatest treasures, a huge Thangka, is ritually exhibited. After that, return to visit Shey monastery, Shey was the summer capital of Ladakh in the past.

The palace, mostly in ruins now, was built first in 1655, near Shey village, by the king of Ladakh, Deldan Namgyal, also known as Lhachen Palgyigon. It was used as a summer retreat by the kings of Ladakh. The Shey Monastery was also built in 1655 on the instructions of Deldan Namgyal, in the memory of his late father, Singay Namgyal, within the palace complex. The monastery is noted for its giant copper with gilded gold statue of a seated Shakyamuni Buddha. Shakyamuni Buddha is so named since Buddha was the sage (muni) of the Sakya people who resided in the Himalayan foothills and their capital was Kapilvastu.

It is said to be the second largest such statue in Ladakh.

Return to hotel for lunch. Later afternoon, visit Leh Palace & Spituk monastery.

Leh Palace of Ladakh, though in a dilapidated condition continues to lure tourists from far and wide. Located in the Himalayas, the adventurous journey one has to undertake to reach the palace is what makes it even more special. Leh palace was built in the 17th century by King Singe Namgyal as the royal residence. It was deserted in the mid-19th century after the family shifted to Stok. The Leh Palace of Ladakh still retains an old worldly charm about it.’

The Spituk Monastery was built in the 11th century. The monastery, about 8km from Leh in Jammu and Kashmir, was constructed to help develop an exemplary religious community in Ladakh. Like most monasteries in Ladakh, Spituk is also located on a hill. River Indus flows behind the monastery with snowcapped peaks of the Himalayas in the background. The monastery belongs to Gelugpa sect or Yellow Hat order of Tibetan Buddhsim. The monastery was founded by Od-De, elder brother of Lha Lama Changchub Od. Overnight at: Saboo Resort Room: Cottage Suite (lead – in category) Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Thu, Apr 11: Leh – Khardung La Pass – Leh This morning you’ll depart towards Northwards across the Khardong La the highest motorable road in the world, after a brief halt at the pass, continue our drive to a different landscape. You will spend approx. 15 -20 minutes, before return to Leh en - route visit Donkey sanctuary.

Return to resort at lunch time. Later in the afternoon, an Insight experience of the Local Family to visit the Local Kitchen and a tea/coffee snacks with the local family.

Enjoy dinner at the resort.

Overnight at: Saboo Resort Room: Cottage Suite (lead – in category) Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

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Friday, April 12: Leh/Delhi - By AI 446 This morning after breakfast, you’ll be transferred to airport for your flight to Delhi. Meet upon arrival and transfer to hotel Pullman New Delhi Aerocity for day use room.

Enjoy your farewell dinner at the hotel. Post dinner, you’ll be transferred back to Delhi International airport for your homebound flights.

Short stay at: Pullman New Delhi Aerocity Room: Deluxe Room (lead – in category Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

SIKHISM & THE SIKHS

With their characteristic turbans and full beards, the Sikhs are easy to recognise. The Sikh religion is a reformist faith, founded by Guru Nanak in the 15th century. He was the first of a series of ten gurus, who chose his successor from among his most devout disciples. Strongly opposed to idol worship, rituals and the caste system, it believes in a formless God. Moghul emperor Aurangzeb tried to put down Sikhism by force, which encouraged them to become militant. Gobind Singh (1666 to 1708), the tenth and last guru, reorganised the Sikh community into a military order (the Khalsa) to combat this religious persecution by the Mughals. He also gave the Sikh community a distinct religious identity.

From this time onwards they were to follow a rigorous new orthodoxy and wear the Khalsa's five symbols: long hair (kesh), underwear (kachha), small sword (kirpan), comb (kangha), and bracelet (kara). Their holy book (Granth Sahih) is kept in the Golden Temple at Amritsar, the community's holiest shrine.

In hot lands across the Muslim world, turbans protect men from the heat (and blows to the head!). Distinctive Sikh turbans (made from approx. 5 metres of cloth) come in all shapes, colours and sizes to wrap up their long hair. Often the hair is gathered into a bun and then wrapped into

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a hanky. On casual occasions, the outer turban is left off.

It is considered humiliating/taboo to knock someone's turban from their head.

In 1799 Maharaja Ranjit Singh persuaded rival Sikh chieftains to unite and establish the first Sikh kingdom of the Punjab. A military genius, his strong army kept both the British and the ambitious Afghan invaders at bay, making the Punjab a prosperous centre of trade and industry.

A devout Sikh who did much to embellish the Golden Temple, Ranjit Singh was an enlightened ruler, and one of north India's most remarkable. A decade after his death, the British annexed the Punjab and seized his fabulous treasures, including the famous Kohinoor diamond, currently part of the British crown jewels.

Only in 1849 after two bloody wars with the British was the Khalsa army finally defeated. The Sikhs then played a vital role in the British Raj. In 1857 they took the British side in the Mutiny, and were given prominent positions in the Indian armed services throughout the later period of British rule. However many Sikhs also joined the struggle for independence, and suffered grievously at the infamous Jallianwala Bagh massacre (Amritsar) in 1919, and the carnage of the partition (1947).

SHIMLA-KALKA ‘TOY’ TRAIN

along a 100-metre walkway to the border gate, where they turn and stomp back. Some raucous cheering, clapping and blowing of horns accompanies the spectacle. Guards on the Pakistan side then emulate their neighbours’ efforts to much the same sort of cacophony on the other side of the gate. Several times the guards strut their military catwalk and then vanish into the guard-house. Flags are simultaneously lowered, the gates slammed shut and visitors push forward for a congenial photo session. On both sides, more empathy than ever occurs on a cricket pitch permeates the air; photos are taken with the stonefaced guards and then everyone heads home – back to business as usual.

India’s toy trains are small trains that run on historic mountain railway lines, built by the British in the late 19th century and early 20th century to provide access to their hill settlements. The scenery is beautiful, making the journeys really worthwhile. Recognised as UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE treasures, they are outstanding living examples of enterprising engineering solutions.

The historic Shimla - Kalka toy train is a popular way of reaching Shimla, which was once the summer capital of British rulers. The railway was completed in 1903 and provides one of the most picturesque train journeys in India. It runs for 96 kilometres through 20 railway stations, 103 tunnels, 800 bridges, and an incredible 900 curves!

The entire trip all the way from Kalka, near Chandigarh, takes about 5 hours. It’s a steep climb with plenty of fascinating sightseeing along the way.

BEDLAM AT THE BORDER

Every evening as sunset approaches, the India-Pakistan border closes for the night with a spectacular and somewhat Pythonesque show. It takes place at a remote little place 27km west of Amritsar called Wagha. Indians make their way westwards to Wagha (and Pakistanis eastwards) to watch the popular attraction from specially erected stands.

Indian guards sporting outrageous moustaches and outlandish hats perform synchronised speed marching

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SOUTH ASIA’S LONGEST WAR

Born from the partition of India in 1947, the conflict in Kashmir continues today.

It involves three nuclear powers - China, India and Pakistan - who are in dispute over the territory. The conflict is set against the backdrop of the Himalayan mountains and valleys, and involves a patchwork of languages, religions and ethnicities.

The dispute over the region has continued for more than six decades, at significant cost. Today Kashmiris face life alongside a military presence and ongoing militia operations, although a ceasefire agreement was made between India and Pakistan in 2003. The 2000s saw internal

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violence largely give way to non-violent protest. Since the 2008 Mumbai attacks by Pakistani militants, there have been some renewed incidents between India and Pakistan along parts of the border. The latest being just last year. Visits to Kashmir are still not possible.

As of 2013, India administers 43 per cent of the region, including most of Jammu, the Kashmir Valley, Ladakh and the Siachen Glacier. Pakistan controls 37 per cent of Kashmir. In addition, China occupies 20 per cent of kashmir following the Sino-Indian war of 1962. The Shaksam Valley, which China claims, is part of Tibet.

ACCOMMODATION Claridges

Located in Lutyens New Delhi, The Claridges is Just 3 km from the city centre, it has a temperature controlled outdoor swimming pool and 7 dining options. Free WiFi is available. rooms feature a cable flat-screen TV and each is well-equipped with a minibar and tea/coffee making facilities. Safety deposit boxes and ironing facilities are available for guests’ convenience.

Rajitis Svaasa Housed in one of Amritsar's oldest mansions, Ranjit's Svaasa provides a fitness room and other wellness therapies. Free Wi-Fi is available. the air-conditioned rooms all come with an electric kettle, tea tray and personal safe. En suite bathrooms feature a hairdryer and naturally made toiletries.

Norling House Norling House is surrounded by the lush gardens and flowing streams of the Norbulingka grounds. All rooms are fully equipped with air-conditioning/heat, a mini-bar, hot water thermos, complimentary tea bags and free wifi. Norling House offers all the modern comforts in a setting of traditional Tibetan charm.

Chateaux Garli The Chateau Garli borrows its architecture from Colonial, Portuguese, Mughal, Rajasthani and Kangri influence, much like the Garli Pragpur heritage village it is set in.

Located in the heart of historic Garli, this is a country hotel in a remote area and so has limited facilities. The Chateau Garli offers panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range.

Oberoi Cecil The refined rooms include Wi-Fi (fee), minibars and flat-screen TVs, and 24 hour room service. Breakfast is served in the genteel restaurant, formerly a ballroom. There's an atrium lounge bar, and a heated indoor pool, as well as a spa with a gym. This is a historic building in a superb location.

Lebua Lucknow Lebua Lucknow is a Luxury Boutique property, located in central Lucknow and conceptualised as a sprawling traditional bungalow with a huge lush green lawn. It reflects and personifies the "Art Deco" architecture prevailing in the early 1900's.

Saboo Resort Saboo Resorts is located in Leh. The accommodation will provide you with a balcony. accommodation features private bathroom with free toiletries and slippers. You enjoy mountain views and garden views from the room, and restaurant Free WiFi access is available in this resort.

Pullman New Delhi Aerocity The refined rooms feature complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and minibars.

Room service is available 24/7. Amenities include a 24-hour cafe, 2 restaurants and a bar.

There's also an outdoor pool, a fitness room and a spa area with a sauna and hot tub.

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General information

& tour cost TOUR COSTS

Cost per Person: $10,915pp twin share Single Supplement: Additional $2,995pp Business class airfare surcharge (SQ international flights only $3,900pp)

INCLUSIONS

• Economy Class travel, Brisbane to India and return with Singapore Airlines incl all taxes and fees • You will be escorted by our Travel Masters Tour Manager from Brisbane and return.

• Services of local English speaking guides throughout the tour • All accommodation on double/ twin sharing basis • Meals specified as per the program • All transfers, sightseeing & excursions by air-conditioned Deluxe Bus in Delhi, Lucknow & Agra - Toyota Innova car in Himachal & Leh. • Entrance fee at the monuments wherever applicable as per programme • Still camera fee at all places as per programme • Rickshaw ride in Delhi (1 person per rickshaw) • Tibetan cultural show in Dharamshala

COST EXCLUDES ·Travel Insurance ·India Visa fees ·Items of a personal nature, i.e. laundry, drinks, video fees ·Any meals other than mentioned.

ITINERARY AND PRICE CHANGES

Changes to the advertised itinerary are sometimes necessary due to unforeseen circumstances. Any required changes will be communicated to you by the Tour Manager who will make the decisions in conjunction with our Indian tour operators.

Costs are subject to surcharges in the case of increases in suppliers costs, government action or currency fluctuations.

Travel Masters reserves the right to cancel, amend or re-cost the tour should the number of participants be less than 12.

• Toy train ride from Shimla to Kandaghat • Attar (perfume) making tour in Kannauj during Lucknow – Agra drive • Cultural show at Saboo resort in Leh • Visit to local house & enjoy a taste of Special Ladakhi Tea • Services of qualified licensed English speaking professional local guides as per the program • Assistance on all arrival and departure transfers.

• Basic porterage at the airport & hotels • Road taxes, parking fee, fuel charges, interstate taxes.

• Bottled water, soft beverages & light refreshments during long drives.

• Prices include all current taxes and entrance fees.

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS, BUSINESS CLASS UPGRADE

$3,900 per person: Brisbane – Delhi – Brisbane (subject to availability at time of booking).

HOW TO BOOK A deposit of $1000 per person is required to secure your place.

Final payment will be due by 11 January 2019.

A copy of the photo page of your Passport is required at time of booking.

TRAVEL INSURANCE Comprehensive Travel Insurance is mandatory.

It must cover cancellation in the case of illness, overseas medical and hospital expenses, accidental death, personal liability, personal luggage etc.

Our Travel Masters consultants will assist with your insurance requirements.

HEALTH AND VACCINATIONS Currently no vaccinations are necessary.

Please contact your medical Doctor for full advice.

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Northern India

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Doublepreference? TWIN / DOUBLE Sex: MALEwhat / FEMALE what would beTwin/ your room Do you require single supplement? YES / NO Would you like us to keep an eye out for a possible twin-share on your behalf? YES / NO (Please note that Single Supplement will be payable if we are unable to assist with a suitable twin-share for you)

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Please also complete the reverse side of this form and return it to one of our Travel Consultants, or to: Group Tour Co-ordinator, PO Box 5038, Mermaid Waters QLD 4218 YOUR CONSULTANT__________________________

EMERGENCY CONTACT (Person to contact should there be an emergency while you are overseas) Complete Name:------------------------------------------- Relationship:--------------------------------------------------------------------------Street Address:-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Suburb:------------------------------------------------------------ State:--------------------------------Postcode:-----------------------------------Home Tel:--------------------------------------------------------- Work Tel:---------------------------Mobile No:----------------------------------Payment Options a deposit ( Please payment to Mistvale Pty Ltd) to Mistvale Pty Ltd) 1.

Mail – Enclosed is a cheque /asmoney order as a make deposit (Please make payable 2.

Credit Card – Please debit my: Visa / Mastercard / American Express / Diners Club Card No: ______________________________________________________ Expiry: ______/______/______ Cardholder’s Name: __________________________________________________ Cardholder’s Signature: _______________________________________________ (Payments by credit card will be subject to a 2% Merchant Administration fee) 3.

Direct Deposit into Travel Masters bank account. Please call for bank details.

DEPOSIT AND FINAL PAYMENT The deposit ($1000pp) is accepted as a first instalment of the tour cost and will be fully refunded if the arrangements cannot be confirmed or the tour is cancelled by Travel Masters. A detailed invoice is sent out to all passengers booked on the tour, approximately two weeks prior to due date of the final payment. Final payment for the tour needs to be received by 11 January 2019.

CANCELLATION FEES If it is necessary for you to cancel your holiday, notification of cancellation must be received in writing. Cancellation charges will apply: up to 8 weeks prior to departure loss of deposit; 7-4 weeks prior - up to 50% of tour cost; and less than 4 weeks - up to full tour cost. No refund is available for cancellation of the tour or any service not used after commencement of the tour. Deposits are non-transferable.

PASSPORT AND VISAS It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure that they possess the necessary travel documentation for the tour, such as a valid passport and any required visas.

In general, a passport should be valid at least 6 months beyond the end of your journey and have two clear pages to allow for entry and exit stamps en-route or for any visas applicable for countries in your journey. At the time of final payment you will be given information about any visas that may be required for the tour. Our agency will assist you with the Visa process.

PRICES Tour prices stated on the tour brochure has been calculated on the basis of exchange rates and tariffs valid at time of print and are subject to change Should you decide to cancel your tour on the basis of a change of price, then normal cancellation charges will apply.

TRAVEL MASTERS Group (Travel Masters) PO Box 563, Nerang QLD 4211 Phone: (07) 5596 0511 / 1800 672 988 Email: sales@travelmasters.com.au (The Travel Studio) PO Box 5038, Mermaid Waters QLD 4218 Phone: (07)5572 7272 Email: Lifestyle@thetravelstudio.com.au Visit our website: www.travelmasters.com.au

RESPONSIBILITY Mistvale Pty Ltd trading as Travel Masters and/or its associated Companies or Agents, act only in the capacity of agents for the passenger in all matters of transportation, tour operation and other services. All receipts, tickets, vouchers, coupons or exchange orders are issued subject to the terms and conditions under which transportation and other services are provided. Travel Masters and/or its associated companies or Agents assume no responsibility for loss, injury, accident, delay or damage or irregularity that may be caused to person or property, however caused arising before commencement and/or during any tour under its management, sponsorship, procurement or otherwise. It is the responsibility of the passenger to make sure he/she is in possession of the proper visas and other travel documents and that they are in compliance with current government and transportation companies’ regulations. The right is reserved to modify the itinerary in any way considered necessary or desirable, or to change any reservation, hotel feature and/or means of conveyance, without allowance or refund but the extra cost (if any) resulting therefrom must be paid by the passenger. The right is also reserved to cancel or withdraw any tour, to replace any tour leader with another, to cancel or withdraw any booking made for a passenger, or to decline to accept any person as a member of a tour. The transportation companies or firms shall be exempt from all liabilities in respect of any detention, delay, loss, damage, sickness or injury however and by whomsoever caused and of whatever kind occurring of or to the passenger at any time when the passenger is not on board a carrier or conveyance used or operated by the transportation companies or firms. The contract of passage in use by the transportation companies or firms concerned shall constitute the sole contract between transportation companies or firms, and the purchase of these tours and/or passenger. All tickets, deposit tickets, coupons or orders are furnished and issued subject in all respects to those terms and conditions under which the means of transportation or other services provided there by are offered or supplied by owners, public carriers, or managing agents. The issuance and acceptance of receipts, tickets, vouchers, coupons, or exchange orders shall be deemed consent to the above conditions. The tour is based on flights as detailed in the itinerary, however any other IATA or non-IATA carrier may be used for tour coordination.

'A Journey of the Senses'

Travelling through India is about its sights and sounds.

It is about taking in the colour, and experiencing the emotions. India is about the people, the warmth of Indian hospitality and the genuine friendliness to guests. This journey is about completely immersing yourself in the uniqueness of your surroundings. A journey through India can be life changing, a truly unique life experience!

INDIA is truly like nowhere else on earth!

The takeaway from the local corner shop doesn't really compare with the fresh and tasty curried vegetables, flat breads, rice, lentils, fruits and delicious sweets available in India. This holiday will open up opportunities to savour the real tastes of northern India.

The sheer sensory overload is enough to make your eyes and nostrils widen. It is the everyday colour and excitement that makes India so amazing.

Indians treat travellers like honoured guests in their country. You'll love every moment of this fabulous cultural and scenic experience!

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