India in full colour Wildlife • Family Tours • Cultural Adventures Rail Tours • Culinary Adventures • Cycling • Golf Trekking• Festivals • Motor Adventures
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Welcome to our world
– India in full colour!
India is our passion. It’s where we are focused on, and where we have operated adventure holidays for over 30 years. Everything in this collection of adventures is totally India. Join us and explore all that India has to offer. There is a large collection of small group tours within these pages, offering a wealth of different activities. You’ll find a range of cultural adventures; tours offering adventure on a budget; trekking adventures; cycling adventures; wildlife adventures in India’s major national parks; cycling journeys; family adventures;
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rail tours; journeys by private motor car; food adventures; motor bike and F1 adventures; and golf adventures, as well as a collection of special festival tours. Whatever activity interests you, in whatever part of India, and for whatever length of time, I am sure there’s something here for you. Whether you are a single traveller or a small group of friends joining one of our group departures, or if you are planning to travel in your own private party, we can help you. Here then is a varied selection of journeys, crafted in India but bookable
with confidence and full financial protection. Tours with a mixture of temples and trains; back-roads and big rivers; majestic cities and rural villages; awesome mountains and bustling markets. Tours that – infused with local contact and the sounds, sights and colours of a vast and varied landscape – are Totally India.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
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Our Tours ■ Cultural Adventures
page 8
■ Rail Adventures
page 34
In the Footsteps of the Mughals (Tour Ref FM)
page 8
Bengal to Punjab by Rail (Tour Ref RBP)
page 34
Rajasthan Desert Safari (Tour Ref RS)
page 9
Delhi to Kochi by Rail (Tour Ref RDC)
page 35
Palaces of Rajasthan (Tour Ref LPR)
page 9
Toy Trains of North India (Tour Ref RTN)
page 35
Overland from Delhi to Nepal (Tour Ref DN)
page 10
Toy Trains of South India (Tour Ref RTS)
page 36
Journey to the Himalayan Kingdoms (Tour Ref HK)
page 10
Toy Trains of North and South India (Tour Ref RTNS)
page 36
From the Taj to Little Tibet (Tour Ref MLT)
page 11
■ Private Car Adventures
page 38
Mughals, Temples and Tigers (Tour Ref MTT)
page 11
By Private Car in the Footsteps of the Mughals
Journey to Little Tibet (Tour Ref JT)
page 12
(Tour Ref PFM)
page 38
Central India Journey (Tour Ref CJ)
page 12
By Private Car into the Rajasthan Desert (Tour Ref PRS)
page 39
Discovering Kerala (Tour Ref DK)
page 13
By Private Car to the Palaces of Rajasthan (Tour PLPR)
page 39
Across South India (Tour Ref AS)
page 13
By Private Car to Hill Stations and Tigers (Tour Ref PHE) page 40
Remote Village Adventure (Tour Ref VA)
page 14
By Private Car to Remote Villages (Tour Ref PVA)
page 40
Yoga in the Kangra Valley (Tour Ref YKV)
page 14
By Private Car Around Kerala (Tour Ref PDK)
page 41
■ Budget Adventures
page 16
By Private Car Across Southern India (Tour Ref PAS)
page 41
Discovering the Footsteps of the Mughals (Tour Ref BFM) page 16
The Taste of North India by Private Car (Tour Ref PEN) page 42
From the Desert to the Ganges (Tour Ref BDG)
page 17
The Taste of South India by Private Car (Tour Ref PES)
Dhaka to Delhi Explorer (Tour Ref BDD)
page 17
The Contrasting Tastes of India by Private Car
Madras to Goa (Tour Ref BMG)
page 18
(Tour Ref PENS)
page 43
North to South Adventure (Tour Ref BNS)
page 18
A Drive from the Tees to the Taj (Tour Ref PGTT)
page 43
■ Trekking Adventures
page 20
■ Food Adventures
page 44
Dhauladhar Trek and Toy Train (Tour Ref TDT)
page 20
A Taste of North India (Tour Ref EN)
page 44
Kumaon Village Trek (Tour Ref TKT)
page 21
A Taste of South India (Tour Ref ES)
page 45
Sikkim and Singalila Trek (Tour Ref TSK)
page 21
Contrasts in Cuisine (Tour Ref ENS)
page 45
Assam and Arunachal Trek (Tour Ref TAA)
page 22
■ Motor Adventures
page 46
Trek and Tea Plantations (Tour Ref TTP)
page 22
North India Motorbike Safari (Tour Ref MNI)
page 46
Changtang Trek (Tour Ref TCT)
page 23
South India Motorbike Safari (Tour Ref MSI)
page 47
Kashmir Ladakh Adventure (Tour Ref KL)
page 23
Mughals, Tigers and Motor Racing (Tour Ref MGP)
page 47
■ Wildlife Adventures
page 26
■ Golf Adventures
page 48
Tigers and Taj Mahal (Tour Ref TM)
page 26
Taj and Tees (Tour Ref GTT)
page 48
Tiger Safari and Temples (Tour Ref TT)
page 27
Golf in the Vale of Kashmir (Tour Ref GVK)
page 49
Hill Stations and Tigers (Tour Ref HE)
page 27
Golf and Houseboats in Kashmir (Tour Ref GXK)
page 49
■ Cycling Adventures
page 28
■ Festival Adventures
page 50
Garhwal Cycle Trek and Tiger Safari (Tour Ref CGW)
page 28
Holi & Diwali Festivals
page 50
Rajasthan Cycle Trek (Tour Ref CRC)
page 29
Festivals in Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro & Punakha
page 51
Festivals in Rajasthan: Camel, Jaisalmer & Gangaur
page 52
Kumaon Cycle Trek: Bikes and Bengal Tigers
page 42
(Tour Ref CKM)
page 29
Festival in Bihar: Sonepur Mela
page 53
Himachal Cycle Trek (Tour Ref CHT)
page 30
Festival in Kerala: Snakeboat Festival
page 53
Kerala Cycle Trek (Tour Ref CKC)
page 30
Festivals in Ladakh: Hemis, Phyang, Takthok & Ladakh
page 54
■ Family Adventures
page 32
The Khajuraho Dance Festival
page 55
Family Kerala (Tour Ref FFK)
page 32
■ General Information
page 56
Families in the Footsteps of the Mughals (Tour Ref FFM) page 33
Essential Information
page 56
Booking Conditions
page 57
Families, Tigers and Taj Mahal (Tour Ref FTM)
page 33
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 02-07_TI_FRONTSECTION_mwv11.indd 3
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Responsible tourism
Why choose us? The adventure specialists for India – that phrase defines us. If you are looking for an adventure in India, nobody specialises in the country as we do. We are focused totally on India. We have over 30 years’ knowledge and experience in putting together tours that will bring India alive for you and let you feel the heart of the country. There are so many sides to India, so many activities to taste, so many places off the beaten track, that you can miss them unless you are in the hands of experts. We’re recognised as the best – we knew our team in India were the best but it was good to see the travel trade recognise this too: in Delhi recently, the President of India gave us the 2012 award for ‘Best Adventure Tour Operator’. Our groups are small on all our tours – approximately 16 people, with some coming along as individuals and others with partners or friends. Travellers of all ages join us; if you have a taste for adventure then whether you are in your 20s or your 70s is irrelevant. Our Tour Leaders are a major reason for our success. They have all lived in India all their lives and their passion for India in all her hues and colours, together with their in-depth knowledge of their own country is what makes our tours special. They have a wealth of local contacts that can bring their country to life, and lead to an in-depth understanding of what makes India tick.
Responsible Tourism or Sustainable Tourism – call it what you will; both terms are relevant. Acting in a responsible way when putting together and operating our tours is how we have always operated, ensuring that our tours despoil and damage nothing of the environment around us, thereby sustaining it for future generations. We believe in leaving the local communities of India that we visit just as we have found them, or preferably in a better way than before we visited by delivering tangible benefits to them through our tour programmes. We use local tour leaders, rather than flying in tour managers from abroad, thus providing local employment. We use local hotels rather than international chain hotels, thus keeping the money in the community. The majority of our tours are on a bed and breakfast basis thus encouraging our groups to eat at local restaurants. Our groups are deliberately kept small to minimise their local impact, and we use local transport, such as Indian railways and sometimes local buses, wherever possible. We have worked this way for over 30 years – long before such a way of working became fashionable. We are members of TOFT – Tour Operators for Tigers – because we seek to protect the beautiful animals we come to visit. We very much hope that you will want to offset the carbon emissions incurred whenever you fly, and for flying in connection with our tours. We work with Carbon Footprint to facilitate this for you. Simply visit our website and click through to their site.
So – reasons for choosing a Totally India tour?
Our 30 years of specialist knowledge, our innovative itineraries, our good value for money, our wide choice of activities and destinations across the sub-continent, our expert tour leaders. To sum it up – we are the adventure specialists for India!
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For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
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Choosing your tour
W
e offer such a variety of activities that it’s difficult to know what to choose. But here are a few pointers to help you:
Energy levels
All of our tours are relatively fast-paced, and see us moving on nearly every day, often with some early starts for lengthy journeys or sightseeing, and there are often long days (this does not apply to our family tours). You will see a lot but you must be prepared for crowded days and relatively little relaxation time. Our tours tend to be for people who want to do and see a lot in the time available, rather than chill and relax for much of the time.
How physical do you want to be?
Let’s consider the exertion levels of our programmes: ► Level 1 – On our Cultural and Food adventures and private motor car tours much of the challenge is cerebral rather than physical. Our Family tours are not too demanding, being designed with younger travellers in mind. ► Level 2 – Our Budget tours demand a little more from you, as you may well organise much of the sightseeing yourself. Early starts for game drives make our Wildlife tours a little more demanding. ► Level 3 – Our Rail tours demand a little more stamina, with overnight train journeys and early morning departures or arrivals on some occasions.
► Level 4 – Our Motorbike tours demand some determinedly physical activity from our riders and our Golf adventures require some exertion on the fairways. ► Level 5 – Our Trekking adventures and Cycle treks are the most strenuous of our activities and demand more physical effort, although we define them as easy, moderate and challenging.
Cycle tours and Trekking tours
Let’s talk a little more about our more physical adventures, and look at our grading of these tours. Our grading definitions are necessarily generalised; more detail about distance covered and altitude gain or loss is included in the Full Tour Details for each tour.
Trekking tours
► Easy Walking 3-4 hours maximum per day, covering less than 10 kilometres per day. Essentially flat terrain, with a few small inclines; no gain or loss in altitude of any consequence, and no high passes will be encountered. ► Moderate Walking for 5-7 hours maximum per day, covering up to 16 kilometres per day. Some hilly terrain; possibly some passes may be crossed, involving altitudes of 3,000-4,000 metres, but altitude gain or loss will not be significant. ► Challenging Walking for 7-8 hours maximum per day, covering up to 20 kilometres per day.
There may be significant altitude gain or loss as high passes may be involved, possibly over 4,000 metres.
Making life easy
Our trekking tours do not require you to backpack; luggage is transported for you each day to the next night stop, by porters or pack animals. You are not required to pitch your tent when camping; our support crew will do this for you.
Cycling tours
► Moderate Each day of cycling will be around 5-6 hours per day, covering 30-40 kilometres per day. The terrain will be essentially flat, with a few small gradients but none of any consequence. ► Challenging Each day of cycling will be around 6-7 hours per day, covering some 40-50 kilometres per day. The terrain will be hilly at times, with some gradients to negotiate. ► What’s included? Included in the cost of our tours is the provision of cycles. We provide Trek 4300, 24-gear Mountain Bikes, with front suspension. Our group will be accompanied by a back-up jeep with support staff. If we are tired or not feeling well we can ride in the jeep. The only equipment that we must bring is a helmet. If you need any help in deciding which tour is best for you, please call our office.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 02-07_TI_FRONTSECTION_SBv10.indd 5
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Jaisalmer
Before you travel
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A few things to think about first…
Health
It is advisable to discuss your travel plans with your doctor, or a travel clinic, since vaccination requirements can change without notice. There are currently no compulsory vaccinations required for a visit to India, other than for yellow fever if coming in to the country from an infected area. We still recommend that you obtain protection against malaria, tetanus, typhoid, infectious hepatitis and polio, together with immunisation against Japanese encephalitis and meningitis.
Visas
Visa requirements for India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Bhutan do, as for any country, change on occasion without warning. Therefore you should confirm all visa-related issues with the nearest Indian, Nepalese or Bangladeshi Embassy or High Commission before departure. Currently citizens of the UK and Australia require visas; other nationalities should check if they require visas before booking – but in any case check before travelling. It is not possible to obtain a visa directly from the Indian Embassy. Instead you must use an agency appointed by the
Embassy to handle all visa applications, online at http://in.vfsglobal.co.uk, by post or by prior appointment at the VFS Global office. Totally India has a visa service using Travcour; please see our website for details.
Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory on a Totally India trip. As part of your booking process, we will require the name of your insurance provider, policy number, a 24-hour contact telephone number for medical emergencies, and the expiry date of your policy. It is mandatory that you are covered for medical expenses and repatriation. Additionally we advise that you are covered for loss of luggage and – since all deposits paid are non-refundable – that you have cancellation protection. Please note it is a condition of booking with us that, if we do not hold the above information by the time you join your tour you will not be allowed to continue. Before you travel please visit the A to Z of Practical Information on our website at www.totallyindia.net/a-to-z for more tips, hints and things to think about as part of your travel planning.
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Amritsar
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Rishikesh
Delhi
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Pushkar � � Jodhpur
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� Darjeeling � Guwahati
Allahabad Udaipur
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Hyderabad
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� Chennai � Mamallapuram
Ooty � Kochi
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� � � Madurai Alleppey � � Periyar NP � Rameshwaram Trivandrum � � Kovalam
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Cultural Adventures
In the Footsteps of the Mughals 9 day tour – the perfect introduction to India
Cultural Adventures Many of our small group tours are simply a blend of culture and adventure. The culture of India is rich, deep and varied, and on a typical tour you will explore temples, palaces and forts, and wander through bazaars and markets that will paint a picture of this vibrant land and provide an insight into India’s culture. But we use local trains, even the occasional local bus, and visit places that are perhaps not adapted to tourism; places that you have to take as they are – this is the adventure element of our tours. An eagerness to explore the culture of India and an openness to a little adventure – these are the two ingredients of a cultural adventure.
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Tour Summary This tour is the perfect introduction to India, and in particular to the Mughal rulers who left such dramatic reminders of their rule, including their Red Forts, deserted Fatehpur Sikri, and the incomparable Taj Mahal. We have time, too, to leave the historical side of India behind and glimpse something of cultural life in the rural villages of the India of today. Tour highlights Delhi – two half-day guided tours. Jaipur and Amber Fort – full-day guided sightseeing. Pachewar village – visit to a traditional village. Bharatpur – visit Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary. Fatehpur Sikri – guided tour. Agra – guided tour of the Taj Mahal and Red Fort. Outline itinerary 1. In Delhi; afternoon sightseeing tour. 2. Morning sightseeing tour of Delhi; evening train to Jaipur. 3. In Jaipur; a full-day sightseeing. 4. Morning drive to Pachewar village;
afternoon sightseeing tour. 5. Morning drive to Karauli; afternoon sightseeing tour. 6. Morning drive to Bharatpur; afternoon visit to Bird Sanctuary. 7. Drive via Fatehpur Sikri to Agra. 8. Morning visit to Taj Mahal and Agra Red Fort; afternoon at leisure; evening train to Delhi. 9. Tour ends Delhi. What’s included in the Itinerary? 4 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels in Delhi, Agra and Bharatpur; 4 nights in Heritage Havelis in Jaipur, Pachewar, Karauli; train AC Chair class; half-day sightseeing tours of Delhi, Pachewar, Karauli, Bharatpur, Fatehpur Sikri and Agra; full-day tour of Jaipur; other transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout your journey in India. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch (Pachewar) and 3 dinners (Pachewar, Karauli and Bharatpur).
Tour ref: FM FROM
£495
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 14:21:23
Cultural Adventures
Palaces of Rajasthan
Rajasthan Desert Safari
14 day tour – desert cities and Heritage Hotels
14 day tour – colours of Rajasthan and a camel safari
Tour Summary We explore the desert settlements of Rajasthan, such as Bikaner, home of the camel corps, the desert city of Jaisalmer and cities of temples and palaces such as Jodhpur and Udaipur. We’ll travel by camel and jeep by day and at night we’ll stay in converted palaces and forts that have been turned into comfortable hotels providing accommodation with character. Tour highlights Delhi – half-day tour of Old Delhi. Heritage Hotels – palaces and forts converted into characterful hotels. Bikaner – guided visit to experience the painted houses. Jaisalmer – guided tour of the desert city. Jodhpur – guided tour of the fort and the old town. Manvar – camel safari in the Thar Desert. Kumbhalgarh – hilltop fortress dating from the 1400s. Udaipur – guided tour of the palaces and Lake Pichola. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; half-day Old Delhi Tour. 2. Train and drive to Nawalgarh;
visit painted houses. 3. Drive to Bikaner; visit camel breeding farm. 4. In Bikaner; guided tour. 5. Full-day drive to Jaisalmer. 6. In Jaisalmer; guided tour. 7. Drive to Dechu; visit villages en route. 8. Morning camel safari; afternoon drive to Jodhpur. 9. In Jodhpur; guided tour of Mehrangarh Fort. 10. Drive to Narlai via Ranakpur. 11. Drive to Udaipur via Kumbalgarh Fort. 12. In Udaipur; guided walking tour of the city. 13. In Udaipur. 14. Udaipur; tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 13 nights’ accommodation in Heritage Hotels and converted palaces; sightseeing and other transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader from Delhi to Udaipur. Single room option – available at all night stops on this tour. Included meals – 13 breakfasts and 3 dinners.
Tour ref: LPR FROM
£1,175
Tour Summary We concentrate on the desert state of Rajasthan, a vibrant and colourful land of palaces, forts, temples and trading towns. We’ll see caravanserais, painted houses and camel corps headquarters and visit Udaipur, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur – then venture into the desert on a camel safari. Tour highlights Delhi – two half-day guided tours. Udaipur – walking tour. Jeep safari – visit the Rabari tribe. Jodhpur – guided tour. Jaisalmer – guided tour. Kuldhara – village visit. Sodakore – camel safari. Bikaner – guided sightseeing. Mandawa – guided tour of the painted houses. Outline itinerary 1. In Delhi; afternoon sightseeing tour. 2. Morning sightseeing tour of Delhi; overnight train to Udaipur. 3. Arrive Udaipur; walking tour of Udaipur. 4. In Udaipur. 5. Morning drive to Bhenswara via Ranakpur; jeep safari to visit Rabari tribes.
6. Morning drive to Jodhpur; afternoon sightseeing tour. 7. Morning drive to Jaisalmer. 8. In Jaisalmer; sightseeing tour. 9. Morning visit to Kuldhara village; drive to Sodakore; afternoon village walk. 10. Morning camel safari at Sodakore; afternoon drive to Bikaner. 11. Full day in Bikaner. 12. Morning drive to Mandawa; afternoon visiting the painted houses at Mandawa. 13. Late morning drive to Loharu; afternoon train to Delhi. 14. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 11 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels and Heritage Hotels; 1 night in a comfortable fixed camp in the desert; 1 night on an overnight train with sleeper; sightseeing and other transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout your journey in India. Single room option – available at all night stops except for one overnight on a train. Included meals – 13 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 3 dinners.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 08-15_TI_CULTURAL_final-SB.indd 9
Tour ref: RS FROM
£825 9 10/7/13 14:22:12
Cultural Adventures
Journey to the Himalayan Kingdoms Overland from Delhi to Nepal 14 day tour through Darjeeling to Sikkim and Bhutan Tour Summary On this tour we focus on the Himalayan region of the Indian subcontinent – on the Indian state of Bengal and the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan. Our journey takes us from the sprawl of modern Kolkata to the tea country of India’s hill station of Darjeeling – and all the way up to Tiger Hill, the highest viewpoint in the area, at around 2,500 metres. We’ll then proceed to mountainous Sikkim, from where we can get a perfect view of the world’s third-highest mountain Kanchenjunga (as well as other peaks), before heading on into the still mysterious kingdom of Bhutan. Along the way, we’ll not only get to take in stunning mountain vistas, monasteries and temples – including the gigantic Punthang Dechen Phodrang dzong – but also the opportunity to explore the rich culture of Bhutan and Kathmandu. We’ll visit Nepal’s holiest, oldest and largest shrines and mingle with bustling locals and animals including the occasional wandering cow. Tour highlights Kolkata – Dalhousie Square, St John’s Church, Victoria Memorial, Jain Temple, Howrah Bridge, Flower Market. Mountain Train – ride to Darjeeling. Darjeeling – tea country and one of India’s most famous hill stations.
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15 day tour – journey from the plains to the mountains
Gangtok – Sikkim’s capital high in the Himalayas. Thimpu – capital of Bhutan, and perhaps the smallest capital in the world. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Kolkata; day at leisure. 2. In Kolkata, full-day city tour; late evening train to New Jalpaiguri. 3. Arrive New Jalpaiguri; drive to Darjeeling. 4. In Darjeeling; visit Tiger Hill and Mountain Train ride. 5. Drive to Gangtok (Sikkim). 6. Drive to Pelling. 7. Drive to Kalimpong (West Bengal). 8. Drive to Phuentsholing (Bhutan). 9. Drive to Thimpu. 10. Drive to Punakha; visit Dzong. 11. Drive to Paro. 12. In Paro. 13. Fly to Kathmandu. 14. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 13 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels ; 1 overnight trip on a sleeper train; transport and sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader from Kolkata to Kathmandu. Single room option – available at all night stops on this tour, except for overnight train. Included meals – 14 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 5 dinners.
Tour ref: HK FROM
£1,995
Tour Summary This tour takes us from the crowded plains of India up into the Himalayas, encountering different facets of India and Nepal. We take in Mughal architecture, erotic carvings at Khajuraho, and sail on the Ganges before exploring the ancient city of Varanasi. We also take in some wildlife viewing; firstly at Keoladeo in India and later at Chitwan in Nepal, as we make our way through the mountains of Nepal to Pokhara before heading for Kathmandu on a classic overland journey. Tour highlights Delhi – two half-day guided tours. Jaipur – full-day guided sightseeing of the city and Amber Fort. Agra – guided tour of the Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri. Bharatpur – Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary. Khajuraho – guided visit to the erotic carvings of the Western Temple complex. River Ganges – drift down the holy river on a traditional boat. Varanasi – life along the ghats. Chitwan National Park – search for one-horned rhino from elephant back. Pokhara – visit the market. Kathmandu – Pashupatinath and Patan. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; afternoon sightseeing tour. 2. Morning sightseeing tour of Delhi; evening train to Jaipur. 3. In Jaipur; full-day sightseeing. 4. Train to Bharatpur; visit Bird Sanctuary,
then drive to Agra via Fatehpur Sikri; late afternoon visit to Agra Fort. 5. Morning visit Taj Mahal; train to Khajuraho. 6. In Khajuraho; visit temples; overnight train to Allahabad. 7. Arrive Allahabad; transfer to Ganges embarkation point; start sailing on Ganges. 8. Full-day sailing on Ganges, disembarking at Varanasi in the evening. 9. In Varanasi; Sarnath excursion; watch evening Aarti ceremony at Ganges. 10. Drive to India/Nepal border; continue to Lumbini. 11. Drive to Chitwan National Park; visit village and join an elephant safari. 12. At Chitwan; canoe ride and bird watching tour; drive to Pokhara; visit Pokhara Bazaar and Devi’s Falls. 13. Drive via Bandipur to Kathmandu; afternoon visit Swayambhunath, Old Kathmandu and Durbar Square. 14. In Kathmandu; visit Pashupatinath, Boudhanath and Patan; afternoon at leisure. 15. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 11 nights’ accommodation at mid-range hotels; 2 nights’ camping and 1 overnight sleeper; sightseeing tours and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader. Single room option – available at all night stops except on overnight sleeper. Included meals – 14 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 3 dinners.
Tour ref: DN FROM
£1,150
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 14:22:56
Cultural Adventures
From the Taj to Little Tibet
Mughals, Temples and Tigers
22 day tour – Mughal marvels and Ladakh’s mountain passes
21 day tour – the Taj and the wildlife of four national parks
Tour Summary We focus on three Indian worlds. Firstly the Mughal world whose rulers left us the incomparable Taj Mahal, built back in the 15th Century. Then we take a fascinating journey into the Buddhist world of Ladakh, which sits on the border with Tibet; we traverse high mountain passes to Dharamsala, home now to the Dalai Lama. Finally we descend to the plains of India and the Golden Temple at Amritsar. Tour highlights Delhi – two half-day guided tours. Jaipur – guided sightseeing of the city and Amber Fort. Pachewar – visit to an Indian village. Bharatpur – visit to the Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary. Fatehpur Sikri – guided tour. Agra – guided tour of the Taj Mahal and Red Fort. Leh – the capital of Ladakh. Mountain passes in the Himalayas – cross the second highest motorable road in the world. Dharamsala – see the home village of his holiness the Dalai Lama. Amritsar – visit the Golden temple. Outline itinerary 1. In Delhi; afternoon sightseeing tour of the city. 2. Morning sightseeing tour of Delhi; evening train to Jaipur. 3. In Jaipur; full-day sightseeing.
4. Morning drive to Pachewar village; afternoon sightseeing tour. 5. Morning drive to Karauli; afternoon sightseeing tour. 6. Morning drive to Bharatpur; afternoon visit to bird sanctuary. 7. Drive via Fatehpur Sikri to Agra. 8. Morning visit to Taj Mahal and Agra Red Fort; evening train to Delhi. 9. In Delhi. 10. Morning flight to Leh. 11. In Leh; visit monasteries. 12. Morning drive to Alchi; visit Likir Monastery. 13. Drive back to Leh. 14. Drive to Sarchu via Taglang La. 15. Drive to Jespa. 16. Drive to Manali. 17. In Manali. 18. Drive to Dharamsala. 19. In Dharamsala. 20. Drive to Amritsar. 21. Train to Delhi. 22. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 16 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels; 4 nights in Heritage Havelis; 1 night at a fixed campsite; sightseeing tours and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader from Delhi back to Delhi. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 21 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 9 dinners.
Tour ref: MLT FROM
£1,265
Tour Summary This tour focuses on two aspects of India. Firstly the Mughal rulers who left such dramatic reminders as the incomparable Taj Mahal. Then we visit four of the country’s National Parks – Ranthambore, Kanha, Bandhavgarh and Panna. We hope to encounter some remarkable wildlife on our journey – wolves, elephant, perhaps leopard, and of course the Bengal tiger. Along the way we will also take in the temples at Khajuraho. Tour highlights Delhi – two half-day guided tours of Delhi. Jaipur – guided sightseeing of the city and Amber Fort. Pachewar – visit a rural village. Bharatpur – Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary. Fatehpur Sikri – guided tour. Agra – guided tour of the Taj Mahal and Agra Red Fort. Ranthambore – two game drives. Kanha – four game drives. Bandhavgarh – four game drives. Khajuraho – guided tour. Orchha – explore the Fort Palace. Outline itinerary 1. In Delhi; afternoon sightseeing tour. 2. Morning sightseeing tour of Delhi; evening train to Jaipur. 3. In Jaipur; full-day sightseeing. 4. Morning drive to Pachewar village; sightseeing tour. 5. Morning drive to Karauli;
sightseeing tour. 6. Morning drive to Bharatpur; visit to Bird Sanctuary. 7. Drive via Fatehpur Sikri to Agra. 8. Morning visit to Taj Mahal and Agra Red Fort; evening train to Delhi. 9. Afternoon train to Ranthambore. 10. At Ranthambore; game drives. 11. At Ranthambore; overnight train to Jabalpur. 12. Arrive Jabalpur; drive to Kanha. 13 & 14. At Kanha; game drives. 15. Drive to Bandhavgarh. 16 & 17. At Bandhavgarh; game drives. 18. Drive to Khajuraho; visit to the temples. 19. At Khajuraho; game drive in Panna National Park; visit temples; afternoon drive to Orchha. 20. At Orchha; evening train to Delhi. 21. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 15 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels; 4 nights in Heritage Havelis; 1 night sleeper on overnight train; other transport and sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout your journey in India. Single room option – available at all night stops, except on the overnight sleeper train. Included meals – 20 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 11 dinners.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 08-15_TI_CULTURAL_final-SB.indd 11
Tour ref: MTT FROM
£1,195 11 10/7/13 14:23:41
Cultural Adventures
Journey to Little Tibet
Central India Journey
14 day tour – from Ladakh’s mountains to the Golden Temple
14 day tour through some of the lesser-known gems of India
Tour Summary We focus on the Buddhist land of Ladakh, on the border with Tibet, with a lifestyle and architecture redolent of that Buddhist region. From Leh, we visit some of the outstanding monasteries that guard and cherish their traditional lifestyle. Then we traverse high mountain passes to Dharamsala, home now to the Dalai Lama. Finally we descend to the plains of India and the Golden Temple at Amritsar. Tour highlights Delhi – half-day tour of Old Delhi by metro and cycle rickshaw. Leh – the capital of Ladakh; visit Alchi Monastery. Mountain passes in the Himalayas – cross the second-highest motorable road in the world. Dharamsala – visit the Tibetan village of McLeodganj, the residence of his holiness the Dalai Lama. Amritsar – visit the Golden Temple and Wagha Border. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; afternoon sightseeing tour of Old Delhi.
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2. Morning flight to Leh. 3. In Leh; full-day visit to Shey Palace, Thiksey and Hemis Monasteries. 4. Morning drive to Alchi; visit the Likir Monastery. 5. Drive back to Leh. 6. Drive to Sarchu via Taglang La. 7. Drive to Jespa. 8. Drive to Manali. 9. In Manali. 10. Drive to Dharamsala – home to the Dalai Lama. 11. In Dharamsala. 12. Drive to Amritsar. 13. Train to Delhi. 14. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 12 nights’ accommodation at mid-range hotels; 1 night at a fixed campsite; other transport and sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader from Delhi back to Delhi. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 13 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 8 dinners.
Tour ref: JT FROM
£955
Tour Summary On this tour we focus on an area of India that many visitors to this vast country pass by – the central region of the sub-continent. From the bustle of Mumbai we visit the amazing temples and caves at Ajanta and Ellora; explore the city of Hyderabad, the city of pearls; discover the carvings at Hospet; and then spend a little time relaxing on the famed beaches of Goa – a fascinating journey through some of the lesser-known gems of India. Tour highlights Mumbai – explore the bustle. Ajanta caves – a series of Buddhist rock-cut cave temples. Ellora – the 8th-century carved-out Kailashnath Temple. Hyderabad – take in the city, variously called the City of Nawabs, City of Pearls, the Biryani City and now Cyberabad. Visit Golconda Fort. Badami Caves – temple carvings. Hampi – explore the old capital of the Vijayanagar Kings. Goa – churches, colonial Portuguese influence and those justifiably famous beaches.
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Mumbai; orientation tour. 2. Train to Aurangabad. 3. In Aurangabad; full-day visit to Ajanta Caves. 4. In Aurangabad; full-day visit to Ellora Caves; overnight train to Hyderabad. 5. In Hyderabad. 6. Drive to Gulbarga. 7. Drive to Bijapur. 8. Drive to Badami. 9. Drive to Hospet. 10. Morning in Hospet; drive to Hubli; overnight train to Goa. 11 & 12. In Goa. 13. Train to Mumbai. 14. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 11 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels; 2 nights on overnight train. Transport and sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary; services of Totally India Tour Leader from Mumbai to Mumbai. Single room option – available at all night stops, except on overnight trains. Included meals – 13 breakfasts.
Tour ref: CJ FROM
£845
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 14:24:24
Cultural Adventures
Discovering Kerala
Across South India
9 day tour – the highlights of a lush southern land
14 day tour – from the Bay of Bengal to Kerala’s backwaters
Tour Summary This tour concentrates on Kerala, one of the most fascinating states of southern India, We explore the enchanting coastal strip of land between the high Sahya ranges in the east and the vast Arabian Sea in the west. Along the way we will see beautiful waterfalls, exotic spice gardens and tea plantations while our overnight stays include time on a traditional Kerala houseboat and a local homestay before relaxing on the beaches of Kovalam. Tour highlights Kochi – waterbus tour. Munnar – visit to a tea plantation and spice gardens. Cheeyappara Water Falls. Periyar National Park – nature trek. A traditional Kerala houseboat – cruising and staying overnight. Experience a homestay – overnight with families from the local village. The beautiful beaches of Kerala – time to kick back and relax. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Kochi; afternoon city tour. 2. In Kochi; day at leisure to explore.
3. Drive via Cheeyappara waterfalls to Munnar; afternoon visit to a tea plantation and Mattupetty. 4. Drive to Periyar. 5. Morning nature trek in Periyar; afternoon drive to Alleppey for local homestay. 6. Embark on traditional Kerala houseboat on backwaters. 7. Disembark at Alleppey then drive to Kovalam; afternoon at leisure on the beach. 8. At Kovalam Beach. 9. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 7 nights’ accommodation in midrange hotels; 1 night on a traditional houseboat; other transport and sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout your journey in India. Single room option – single rooms are available at most night stops, but it is necessary to share on the houseboat and village house overnights. Included meals – 8 breakfast, 2 lunches and 2 dinners.
Tour ref: DK FROM
£495
Tour Summary On this tour we focus on the south of India, the land of the Tamils. From the vibrant city of Chennai to the ancient temples of Mysore; the lush hills around Ooty and the backwaters of Kerala; from the French influences of Pondicherry to the beach temples of Mamallapuram. Travelling by train coach and riverboat, we traverse the lush states of the south. Highlights of the tour Chennai – gateway to the south. Anaerangal Lake – literally meaning the ‘lake where the elephants come down’ – and for good reason. Periyar National Park – search for tiger. Tea plantation and spice garden – visit these Indian icons. South Indian classical dances – watch a traditional performance. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Chennai; at leisure. 2. In Chennai; half-day tour; afternoon optional excursion to Kanchipuram; overnight train to Mysore. 3. In Mysore; visit Chamundi hill to see Chamundeshwari Temple.
4. Drive to Ooty via Madu Malai National Park. 5. Train to Coonoor; drive to Coimbatore; train to Cochin. 6. In Cochin, full-day tour. 7. Drive to Alleppey. 8. Drive to Periyar; game viewing. 9. Drive to Madurai. 10. Drive to Tanjore; visit the elaborate Brihadeeshwara Temple. 11. Tour of Tanjore; drive to Pondicherry. 12. In Pondicherry; guided tour of the city; drive to Mamallapuram. 13. In Mamallapuram. 14. Tour ends. Tour highlights 12 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels; 1 night stay with local family; sightseeing and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of Totally India Tour Leader throughout your time in India. Single room option – single rooms are available at all night stops except for 1 night with local family. Included meals: 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 08-15_TI_CULTURAL_final-SB.indd 13
Tour ref: AS FROM
£859 13 10/7/13 14:25:10
Cultural Adventures
Remote Village Adventure
Yoga in the Kangra Valley
14 day tour through desert communities to the Rann of Kutch
9 day tour with a basic 5 day course in peaceful surroundings
Tour Summary We concentrate on the desert states of Rajasthan and Gujurat, with their palaces, forts, temples and trading towns, but also where the rural traditions of India live on. We’ll spend most of our time exploring desert communities such as Pushkar, Bhadrajun and Kumbalgarh. We’ll then see Bhuj and the Rann of Kutch before heading for the bustling chaos of Mumbai. Tour Highlights Delhi – half-day tour of Old Delhi. Pachewar – village visit by bullock cart. Pushkar – holy lake and temples. Bhadrajun – stay in the Royal Pink Palace. Ranakpur – visit to Jain Temple. Kumbalgarh – visit the fort and village. Udaipur – lakes and palaces. Bhuj – desert community. Rann of Kutch – village safari. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; half-day tour. 2. Early morning train to Jaipur; transfer to Pachewar Garh. 3. Drive to Pushkar via Kishengarh.
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4. Drive to Chandelao Garh village. 5. Drive to Bhadrajun via Jodhpur. 6. Drive to Kumbalgarh; visit Ranakpur. 7. Drive to Udaipur; en route visit Kumbalgarh Fort. 8. Drive to Dungarpur; visit Juna Mahal and Dungarpur village. 9. Drive to Dasada; visit Mudhera temple. 10. Drive to Bhuj. 11. Drive towards Rann of Kutch; head off on a village safari. 12. Full-day village visit; drive to Bhuj to board overnight train to Mumbai. 13. Arrive Mumbai. 14. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 10 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels, 1 night at fixed camp, 1 night at royal castle, and 1 night on overnight train; transport and sightseeing as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader from Delhi to Mumbai. Single room option – single rooms are available at all night stops except overnight train. Included meals – 13 breakfasts and 7 dinners.
Tour ref: VA FROM
£995
Tour Summary This tour, based in the Kangra valley, in the North Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, features a 5-day introductory yoga course. We base ourselves at the headquarters of the Kangra District, the small town of Dharamsala, adjacent to which is McLeodganj, the home of His Holiness, The Dalai Lama. We spend 6 nights here, with our mornings spent at our yoga course and our afternoons spent on a variety of excursions. Returning by train to Delhi, the city seems chaotic and noisy after our time in the Kangra valley. Our yoga course is a basic introductory course suitable for anyone wishing to start to learn about the practice of yoga, or wishing to refresh their basic knowledge after time away from the practice. Tour Highlights Delhi – tour of Old Delhi. Yoga sessions – 5-day basic course. Dharamsala and McLeodganj – tours. Tea garden – visit. Triund – half-day walk. Kangra valley – explore by Toy Train.
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; half-day Old Delhi Tour. 2. In Delhi; morning train to Chakki Bank; drive to Dharamsala. 3. Yoga session; afternoon guided tour of Dharamsala and McLeodganj. 4. Yoga session; afternoon excursion to tea garden. 5. Yoga session; afternoon walk to the village of Triund. 6. Yoga session; afternoon ride on Kangra valley toy train. 7. Yoga session; afternoon at leisure. 8. Morning drive to Chakki Bank; afternoon train to Delhi. 9. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 8 nights’ accommodation in midrange hotels; provision of basic 5-day introductory yoga course; transport and sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout our tour and yoga teacher in Dharamsala. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 8 breakfasts.
Tour ref: YKV FROM
£845
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 12/7/13 09:30:04
‘Just seeing the reactions of young children when they see the Taj for the first time makes it all worthwhile for me.’ Pradeep Jain, Tour Leader
08-15_TI_CULTURAL_final-SB.indd 15
10/7/13 14:26:42
Budget Adventures
Discovering the Footsteps of the Mughals 9 day tour – desert cities, wildlife and the Taj Mahal
Budget
Adventures Our budget tours are designed in exactly the same way as our other tours; they have the same mixture of transport and the same standard of service from the Totally India tour leader. But the accommodation is more basic and no sightseeing is included. That allows everyone to decide just how much or how little they want to spend on excursions and sightseeing. Our Tour Leader will arrange sightseeing for us (for an additional cost) or we can explore on our own. With a budget tour we have the choice.
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Tour Summary On this adventure on a budget everyone can choose how much to spend on sightseeing, while using public transport keeps our costs down. Our focus is on Rajasthan, visiting the desert settlement of Pushkar, the pink city of Jaipur, the wildlife of Ranthambore and Bharatpur, before we reach the incomparable Taj Mahal. Using local buses and trains, we discover palaces, deserts and temples: the contrasting faces of Northern India. tour Highlights Delhi – half-day optional tour of Old Delhi. Pushkar – the chance of a camel ride into the desert. Jaipur – exploring the ‘pink city’ and Amber Fort. Ranthambore National Park – game drives Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur – birdlife galore. Fatehpur Sikri – deserted Mughal city. Agra – the incomparable Taj Mahal.
2. Train to Ajmer; drive to Pushkar. 3. Morning visit Pushkar; afternoon drive to Jaipur. 4. In Jaipur; optional city tour. 5. Morning train to Ranthambore; afternoon: optional game drive. 6. Morning: optional game drive; evening train to Bharatpur. 7. Morning: optional visit Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary; after lunch, you will drive to Agra via optional visit to Fatehpur Sikri. 8. Full day in Agra; Taj Mahal guided tour; optional tour of Red Fort and Baby Taj; evening train to Delhi. 9. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 8 nights’ accommodation in basic hotels and Heritage Hotels; sightseeing and transportation as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader from Delhi to Delhi. Single room option – available at all night stops on this tour. Included meals – 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners (1 at hotel and 1 on train).
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; optional half-day tour of Old Delhi.
Tour ref: BFM FROM
£395
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 14:02:17
Budget Adventures
From the Desert to the Ganges
Dhaka to Delhi Explorer
14 day tour across northern India from Rajasthan to Kolkata
14 day tour – Bangladesh and Bengal, Varanasi and Agra
Tour Summary On this adventure on a budget everyone can choose how much to spend on sightseeing, while using public transport keeps our costs down. We visit the great cities of Northern India: from India’s capital to the Fortress of Jodhpur; from the beauty of Udaipur to the pink sandstone of Jaipur; from iconic Agra and lesser-known Allahabad to the spirituality of Varanasi and the bustle and chaos that is Kolkata. Using local buses and trains – and local boats to cruise the Ganges – we explore the many faces of Northern India.
tour Highlights Exploring Delhi, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Jaipur, Agra, Varanasi and Kolkata – 7 of northern India’s major cities. River Ganges – two days of sailing. Outline Itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; optional tour of OId Delhi. 2. In Delhi; optional tour of New Delhi; overnight train to Jodhpur. 3. In Jodhpur. 4. Bus to Udaipur. 5. In Udaipur; overnight train to Jaipur.
6. Full day in Jaipur. 7. Day in Jaipur; late afternoon train to Agra. 8. In Agra; optional excursion to Taj Mahal and Agra Fort; overnight train to Allahabad. 9. Arrive Allahabad, drive to start of sailtrek; an afternoon sail on the Ganges. 10. Continue sailtrek to Varanasi. 11. In Varanasi. 12. In Varanasi; overnight train to Kolkata. 13. In Kolkata. 14. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 8 nights’ accommodation in basic hotels; 4 nights’ sleeper on overnight train; 1 night of camping on Ganges sailing voyage; other transport as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout your journey in India. Single room option – available at all night stops except on overnight sleeper trains. Included meals – 13 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners.
Tour ref: BDG FROM
£545
Tour Summary On this adventure on a budget everyone can choose how much to spend on sightseeing, while using public transport keeps our costs down. From the capital of Bangladesh to the sights of Kolkata; from the beauty of the Sunderbans National Park to the spirituality of Varanasi; from Agra to India’s chaotic capital, Delhi. We use local buses, trains and local boats to cruise the Sunderbans. tour Highlights Dhaka – full day in the capital of Bangladesh. Paharpur – afternoon excursion. Kolkata – a full day to explore the capital of Bengal. Sunderbans National Park – cruise and game viewing by motorboat. Varanasi – two days to explore this iconic city. Agra – a full day to explore the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Delhi – exploring both Old and New Delhi.
3. Drive to Bogra. 4. Drive via Puthia to Pabna. 5. Drive via Kushtia and Shilaidaha to Khulna. 6. Drive to Kolkata. 7. Full day in Kolkata. 8. Drive to Sunderbans. 9. Morning game drive; boat and drive to Kolkata; overnight train to Varanasi. 10. Full day in Varanasi. 11. Full day in Varanasi; overnight train to Agra. 12. In Agra. 13. Morning train to Delhi. 14. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 10 nights’ accommodation in basic hotels; 1 night in basic lodge; 2 nights’ sleeper on overnight train; other transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout your journey in Bangladesh and India. Single room option – available at all night stops except on overnight trains. Included meals – 13 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 3 dinners (2 of which are on board trains).
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Dhaka. 2. In Dhaka; optional sightseeing tour.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 16-19_TI_BUDGET_SBv9.indd 17
Tour ref: BDD FROM
£859 17 10/7/13 14:04:08
Budget Adventures
North to South Adventure 29 day tour – Delhi to Kolkata then Chennai to Goa
Madras to Goa 14 day tour across southern India from coast to coast Tour Summary On this adventure on a budget everyone can choose how much to spend on sightseeing, while using public transport keeps our costs down. We travel across southern India from Chennai on the Coromandel coast to Goa on the coast of the Arabian Sea, and along the way take in the temples of Mamallapuram, Madurai and Mysore, the vast bay of Kochi, the hill country around Ooty and the seductive beaches of Goa. We use local buses and trains for our land excursions, and canoes on the backwaters. tour Highlights Mamallapuram – explore the temples. Pondicherry – the old French colony. Madurai – visit the temples. Chennamkary – overnight stay with local families. Kochi – explore the harbour and Fort Cochin. Ooty – ride the Toy Train. Mysore – explore the Meenakshi Temple. Goa – relax on the beaches. Outline Itinerary 1. Arrive in Chennai; drive to Mamallapuram. 2. In Mamallapuram; optional walking tour.
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3. Bus to Pondicherry; optional tour in afternoon. 4. Transfer to Villupuram; train to Madurai. 5. Full day in Madurai; optional tour; overnight train to Kollam. 6. Drive to Chennamkary; optional canoe excursion; overnight stay with a local family. 7. Bus to Kochi. 8. In Kochi; optional city tour. 9. Train to Coimbatore; transfer to Coonoor; mountain train to Ooty. 10. Bus to Mysore. 11. In Mysore; optional tour; overnight train to Karwar. 12. Drive to Goa. 13. In Goa. 14. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 10 nights’ accommodation in basic hotels; 2 nights’ sleeper on overnight train; 1 night overnight stay with local family; transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout your journey in India. Single room option – available at all night stops except on overnight sleeper trains. Included meals – 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner.
Tour ref: BMG FROM
£695
Tour Summary An adventure on a budget through North India’s greatest cities. We cross Northern India, cruise the Ganges, visit the Sunderbans, fly to Chennai and Mamallapuram, Madurai and Mysore, before visiting Kochi, Ooty and the beaches of Goa. tour Highlights River Ganges – sailtrek. Sunderbans – waterways and wildlife. Mamallapuram – shore temples. Pondicherry – one-time French colony. Madurai – city of temples. Chennamkary – overnight stay with local families. Kochi – explore the harbour. Ooty – ride the toy train. Mysore – temples and bazaars. Goa – relaxing beaches. Outline Itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; optional tour. 2. In Delhi; optional tour; overnight train to Jodhpur. 3. In Jodhpur; optional tour. 4. Bus to Udaipur. 5. In Udaipur; optional tour; overnight train to Jaipur. 6. In Jaipur; optional tour. 7. Day in Jaipur; train to Agra. 8. In Agra; optional excursion to Taj; overnight train to Allahabad. 9. Arrive Allahabad; sailtrek on Ganges. 10. Sailtrek to Varanasi. 11. In Varanasi; optional tour. 12. In Varanasi; overnight train to Kolkata. 13. In Kolkata; optional tour. 14. In Kolkata.
15. In Kolkata; optional visit to Sunderbans. 16. Fly to Chennai; drive to Mamallapuram. 17. In Mamallapuram; optional walking tour. 18. Bus to Pondicherry; optional tour. 19. Transfer to Villupuram; train to Madurai. 20. In Madurai; optional tour; overnight train to Kollam. 21. Drive to Chennamkary; overnight with local family. 22. Bus to Kochi. 23. In Kochi; optional city tour. 24. Train to Coimbatore; transfer to Coonoor; mountain train to Ooty. 25. Bus to Mysore. 26. In Mysore; optional tour; overnight train to Karwar. 27. Drive to Goa. 28. In Goa. 29. Tour ends. tour Highlights 20 nights’ accommodation in basic hotels; 6 nights’ sleeper on an overnight train; 1 night’s camping on Ganges sailing voyage; 1 overnight with local family; flight Kolkata/Chennai and other transport as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader Delhi/Kolkata and Chennai/Goa. Single room option – available at all night stops except on overnight sleeper trains and stays with local families. Included meals – 28 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners.
Tour ref: BNS FROM
£1,395
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 14:04:58
‘A desert safari is a classic adventure – it has everything; people, colour, dramatic landscapes and iconic architecture’ Prakash Kanotia, Totally India Tour Development
16-19_TI_BUDGET_SBv9.indd 19
10/7/13 14:06:13
Trekking Adventures
Dhauladhar Trek and Toy Train 9 day tour, including a 4 day trek along the Kangra Valley
Trekking
Adventures Trekking with one of our small groups offers the perfect way to combine exercise with the chance to explore the countryside at a pace slow enough to allow you to appreciate the subtleties and the nuances of the landscape through which you are walking. At night there is either a comfortable hotel or a campsite manned by our support staff, whilst our Tour Leaders are there to ensure your trekking day goes according to plan. All treks are defined as easy, moderate or challenging (see page 5).
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Tour Summary This shorter tour visits the Kangra region of India, which lies in the beautiful Northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. With majestic views of the mighty Dhauladhar mountains above, and the Kangra Valley below, the scenery is truly spectacular. The valley itself is a wide, fertile plain, crisscrossed by low hills. We trek through forests of Deodar trees and wild rhododendrons, visiting Gaddi shepherd villages as we pass through. Tribal life in the villages, scenic high mountain peaks and the chance to ride the famous Toy Train are highlights of this tour. This eye-opening adventure is the perfect introduction to trekking in India. This trek is graded as easy. For more details, see page 5. Tour Highlights Delhi – half-day tours of Old and New Delhi. McLeodganj – home of the Dalai Lama. 4-day trek – hike amid the mountains. Kangra Valley – life in the local villages. Toy Train – a narrow-gauge ride through the mountains. Pragpur – heritage village.
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; afternoon Old Delhi tour. 2. In Delhi; morning tour of New Delhi; overnight train to Pathankot. 3. Drive to McLeodganj. 4. Trek to Kareri Village. 5. Trek to Bahl. 6. Trek to Triund. 7. Trek down to Bhagsu Nag; drive to Baijnath; Toy Train ride to Pragpur. 8. Explore Pragpur heritage village; drive to Jalandhar; train to Delhi. 9. Tour ends. What’s included in The Itinerary? 4 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels; 3 nights’ overnight camping; 1 night on overnight sleeper train; other transport and sightseeing as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout and support staff on trek. Single room option – available at all night stops, at hotels and campsites but not on overnight train. Included meals – 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 3 dinners.
Tour ref: TDT FROM
£795
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 13:17:54
Trekking Adventures
Kumaon Village Trek
Sikkim and Singalila Trek
9 day tour, including a 4 day trek visiting unspoilt villages
15 day tour, including a 6 day trek, then on into Sikkim
Tour Summary This shorter tour visits the Kumaon region, where traditional life has been little disturbed by tourism. We meet the Kumaoni people, staying overnight with local families in simple, but clean accommodation. We trek for four days below some of the tallest mountains in India, through villages lying on their green terraces, passing ancient temples and prehistoric paintings. With an average daily walking time of 5 to 7 hours, we see both the culture and the dramatic landscape of the region as we walk through this unspoilt corner of India. This trek is graded as moderate (see page 5). Tour Highlights Delhi – half-day guided tours of Old and New Delhi. Almora – old British hill station in the western Himalayas. 4-day trek – hike though the Kumaon region. Kumaoni villages – traditional rural life The Himalayas – spectacular views. Jageshwar – a temple complex dating back to the 8th century. Lakhudiar – prehistoric rock art.
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; afternoon guided tour of Old Delhi. 2. In Delhi; morning tour of New Delhi; overnight train to Kathgodam. 3. Drive to Almora; half-day Binsar Sanctuary Walk. 4. Trek to Deora village. 5. Trek to Paliu village. 6. Trek to Sokyatal village. 7. Trek to Jageshwar Temples; continue to Almora. 8. Drive to Kathgodam; train to Delhi. 9. Tour ends. What’s included in The Itinerary? 3 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels; 1 night on sleeper train; 4 nights in local village homes; other transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout your journey in India; support crew on trek. Single room option – single rooms are available only in Delhi and Almora. No single accommodation is available in local village houses or on overnight train. Included meals – 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 dinners.
Tour ref: TKT FROM
£835
Tour Summary This trek focuses on the Himalayan region: on the Singalila National Park and tiny Sikkim. We encounter a world of stupendous mountain views – Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,512m) and Makula (8,462m), four of the planet’s five highest mountains – during a six day trek. Before our trek we ride the toy train at Darjeeling, and later journey on to Gangtok and Kalimpong with their colourful mix of mountain people from Nepal and Tibet. This trek is graded as moderate (see page 5). Tour Highlights Kolkata – guided tour of the capital of Bengal. Darjeeling – ride the toy train and visit Ghoom Monastery. 6-day trek – along mountain ridges, with views of four of the world’s highest mountains. Gangtok – Sikkim’s capital high in the Himalayas.
4. Drive to Rimbik. 5. Trek to Ramam. 6. Trek to Molloy. 7. At Molloy; round-trip trek to Phalut. 8. Trek to Sandakphu. 9. Trek to Tumling. 10. Trek to Manebhanjang; drive to Darjeeling. 11. Drive to Gangtok. 12. In Gangtok. 13. Drive to Kalimpong. 14. Drive to Bagdogra; fly to Kolkata. 15. Tour ends. . What’s included in The Itinerary? 8 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels; 1 night in a mountain hut; 5 nights camping; flight Kolkata/ Bagdogra/Kolkata, and other transport and sightseeing as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout your journey in India; support crew on trek. Single room option – available at hotels in Kolkata, Darjeeling, Gangtok and Kalimpong. Not available on trek. Included meals – 14 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 8 dinners.
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Kolkata; day at leisure. 2. Fly Bagdogra; drive to Darjeeling. 3. Darjeeling; Toy Train; Ghoom Monastery.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 20-25_TI_TREKKING_SBv12.indd 21
Tour ref: TSK FROM
£1,295 21 10/7/13 13:20:49
Trekking Adventures
Assam and Arunachal Trek
Trek and Tea Plantations
16 day tour, including a 4 day trek along the Seing river
A 14 day tour, including a 5 day trek in Kerala
Tour Summary This tour offers wildlife viewing in Kaziranga National Park, visits to some of India’s tribal people, a fourday trek along the Seing River, and a voyage down one of India’s sacred rivers. Traditional life has changed little here and on our 4-day trek we meet Nishi, Apatani, Hill Miri and Tagin people and overnight in camp, or in a village house. Finally we take a ferry journey down the River Brahamputra. This trek is graded as challenging (see page 5). Tour Highlights Delhi – half-day tour of Old Delhi. Kaziranga National Park – look for one-horned rhinos. Visit tribal villages – Nishi, Apatani, Hill Miri and Tagin peoples. 4-day trek – along the Seing river. Brahmaputra – ferry on the sacred river. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; afternoon tour of Old Delhi. 2. Fly To Guwahati. 3. Drive to Kaziranga. 4. At Kaziranga National Park; look for one-horned rhinos. 5. Drive to North Lakhimpur.
22 20-25_TI_TREKKING_SBv12.indd 22
6. Drive to Ziro. 7. At Ziro; visit tribal villages. 8. Drive to Daporijo. 9. Drive to Along. 10. Drive to Yaksi; trek to Karo. 11. Trek to Pangi. 12. Trek to Panging. 13. Short trek; drive to Pasighat. 14. Ferry to Dibrugarh. 15. Fly to Delhi. 16. Tour ends. What’s included in The Itinerary? 9 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels; 2 nights in guesthouses; 1 night in Government Circuit House; 3 nights local houses or camping; flights Delhi/Guwahati and Dibrugarh/Delhi and other transport as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout your journey in India; porters and support crew on trek. Single room option – single rooms are available on this tour except in local village houses. Included meals – 15 breakfasts, 12 lunches and 12 dinners.
Tour ref: TAA FROM
£1,759
Tour Summary This tour focuses on Kerala, one of the most fascinating states of southern India. We head inland from Kochi to undertake a 5-day trek among the hills of the Western Ghats, through lush green hill country. But this is a land not only of beautiful mountain scenery, but also of rolling tea plantations, and we will be sure to visit these too, as well as exploring caves, taking a jeep safari into a national park, visiting Kerala Kalamandalam art academy and looking for wildlife in Periyar Reserve. This trek is graded as moderate (see page 5). Tour Highlights Kochi – guided city tour. Wayanad – caves and tribal villages. Munnar – visit a tea plantation. Edakkal Caves – explore the cave system. Tribal village visits – meet local people. Kerala Kalamandalam art academy. Periyar National Park – nature treks. 5-day trek – hike the Western Ghats.
3. Train to Calicut; from there drive on to Wayanad. 4. At Wayanad; visit caves and local tribal villages. 5. Drive to Cheruthuruthy; head out on an afternoon tour. 6. Drive to Munnar; afternoon visit to tea plantation. 7 to 11. Transfer to Silent Valley; 5-day trek; end trek; drive to Periyar. 12. At Periyar. 13. Drive to Kochi; an afternoon to explore at our leisure. 14. Tour ends. What’s included in The Itinerary? 9 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels; 4 nights’ camping in basic mobile 2-man tents; other transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout your journey in India and support crew on trek. Single room option – single rooms are available at all night stops including camping overnights. Included meals – 13 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 4 dinners
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Kochi; at leisure. 2. In Kochi; morning tour.
Tour ref: TTP FROM
£695
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 13:21:43
Trekking Adventures
Changtang Trek
Kashmir Ladakh Adventure
14 day tour, including a 6 day trek in the far north of India
14 day tour, including houseboat stay and 3 day trek
Tour Summary This tour focuses on the Changtang region of Ladakh. Only recently opened to foreigners due to its proximity to the Chinese border, the Changtang is a land of wilderness and magnificent landscapes, high arid plains, remote villages, snowcapped peaks and azure-blue lakes, the largest being Tso Moriri at an altitude of 4,500 metres. Truly remote, this area is only accessible for a few months every summer and is inhabited by Changpas – nomadic yak and pashmina goat herders of Tibetan origin, who then wander this area. We trek to their summer settlements to witness a unique human culture, far from the modern world. The trek ends at Tso Moriri, near Korzok monastery. This trek is graded as challenging (see page 5). Highlights of the tour Delhi – half-day tour of Old Delhi. Leh – the capital of Ladakh. Hemis – visit Ladakh’s most famous Buddhist Gompa. 6-day trek – cross several passes.
Outline Itinerary 1. In Delhi; tour of Old Delhi. 2. Fly to Leh. 3. In Leh; visit Spituk and Phayang Gompas. 4. Drive via Shey, Thiksey and Hemis to Rumtse. 5. Trek to Kyamar. 6. Trek to Tisaling. 7. Trek to Pangunagar. 8. Trek to Nuruchan. 9. Trek to Gyamabarma. 10. Trek to Korzok. 11. At Korzok. 12. Drive to Leh. 13. Fly to Delhi. 14. Tour ends. What’s included in The Itinerary? 6 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels; 7 nights’ camping; flights Delhi/ Leh/Delhi; other transport and sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader from Delhi back to Delhi and support staff on trek. Single room option – available at all hotel night stops, and at overnight camps. Included meals – 13 breakfasts, 11 lunches and 11 dinners.
Tour ref: TCT FROM
£1,265
Tour Summary This tour focuses on India’s northern regions of Kashmir and Ladakh with a short trek as part of the adventure. We fly first to Leh, where isolated gompas cling to the mountain slopes as part of a lifestyle akin to that in neighbouring Tibet – indeed the area is often referred to as Little Tibet. Then we descend through high mountain passes to the lush world of the Vale of Kashmir, a complete contrast to Ladakh. We relax on a houseboat here before trekking for 3 days in the mountains of Kashmir. The trekking section of this tour is graded as easy (see page 5). Highlights of the tour Delhi – tour of Old Delhi. Leh – capital of Ladakh. Visit Buddhist Gompas isolated from the outside world. Srinagar – stay on a houseboat on Dal Lake. Kolahoi Glacier – trek through alpine forests to reach the ice.
3. In Leh. 4. Full day visit to monasteries. 5. Drive to Alchi. 6. Drive via Lamayuru to Mulbeck. 7. Drive to Srinagar. 8. In Srinagar; city tour; shikara ride on Dal Lake. 9. Drive to Pahalgam. 10. Drive to Aru; trek to Lidderwat. 11. Full-day trek to Kolahoi Glacier. 12. Morning trek; afternoon drive to Srinagar. 13. Fly to Delhi. 14. Tour ends. What’s included in The Itinerary? 7 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels; 3 nights aboard houseboats; 3 nights’ camping; flights Delhi/Leh and Srinagar/Delhi; other transport and sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader from Delhi back to Delhi; support staff on trek. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 13 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 11 dinners.
Outline Itinerary 1. In Delhi; tour of Old Delhi. 2. Fly to Leh.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 20-25_TI_TREKKING_SBv12.indd 23
Tour ref: KL FROM
£995 23 10/7/13 13:25:21
20-25_TI_TREKKING_SBv12.indd 24
12/7/13 09:35:09
‘The mountains are unbeatable! Totally India put together a brilliant trip for us and our guide, Rafeeq, couldn’t have been more helpful. The best holiday we’ve ever had’ Alison Plumb, honeymooner
20-25_TI_TREKKING_SBv12.indd 25
12/7/13 09:36:20
Wildlife Adventures
Tigers and Taj Mahal 7 day tour, including two wildlife parks and Agra
Wildlife
Adventures Wildlife safaris are often thought of as the preserve of Africa. But India has a large number of national parks with a rich variety of wildlife. Tiger, one of the world’s most endangered species, is the biggest draw for most travellers, but elephant, gaur, crocodile, deer and many other fauna can be seen, while birdlife is the main draw at some national parks. Travelling with one of our small groups means more time to view the animals and more time for photos. Apart from the small group wildlife tours detailed here, we have several other adventures where wildlife viewing forms part of the itinerary: our Mughals, Tigers and Motor Racing tour (page 47), Mughals, Temples and Tigers tour (page 11), Kumaon Cycle Trek (page 29), Garhwal Cycle Trek and Tiger Safari (page 28) and North India Motorbike Safari (page 46) also include visits to national parks with extra time for remarkable wildlife viewing.
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Tour Summary On this short tour we focus on the remarkable and diverse wildlife of India, with time at two of the country’s most interesting wildlife parks. We look for tiger, leopard, crocodile and much more in Ranthambore National Park. We then keep up our tiger-search while keeping an eye out for the diversity of birdlife at Bharatpur’s Keoladeo National Park. Afterwards we head off to take in another of India’s utterly captivating sights, the incomparable Taj Mahal in Agra – built in the 15th century on the order of the grief-stricken Shah Jahan as a towering monument to his beloved wife. Bring a camera and lots of batteries. tour Highlights Delhi – half-day tour of Old Delhi in cycle rickshaws. Ranthambore – 3 game drives by canter jeep in search of tiger and visit to Ranthambore Fort. Keoladeo National Park – further included game viewing, this time by cycle rickshaw. Fatehpur Sikri – included guided
tour of one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture. Agra – guided tour of the incomparable Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; half-day Old Delhi Tour. 2. Afternoon train to Ranthambore. 3 & 4. In Ranthambore; morning and afternoon game drives and visit Ranthambore Fort. 5. Train to Bharatpur; visit Keoladeo Sanctuary; drive to Fatehpur Sikri and continue to Agra. 6. In Agra; morning visit Taj Mahal and Agra Fort; evening train to Delhi. 7. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 6 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels and Heritage Hotels; transport and sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader from Delhi to Delhi. Single room option – available at all night stops on this tour. Included meals – 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 3 dinners.
Tour ref: TM FROM
£540
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 13:32:43
Wildlife Adventures
Tiger Safari and Temples
Hill Stations and Tigers
14 day tour – 4 wildlife parks and Khajuraho’s erotic temples
15 day tour – Rishikesh, Almora and Corbett National Park
Tour Summary On this tour we concentrate on the impressive range of India’s wildlife, with the chance to visit four of the country’s national parks – Ranthambore, Kanha, Bandhavgarh and Panna. There is a lot to see in the parks of India: we hope to encounter wolves, elephant, perhaps leopard, and of course the Bengal tiger. But along the way we will also take in Old Delhi, the temples at Khajuraho and the fort palace at Orchha. tour Highlights Delhi – two half-day guided tours. Ranthambore National Park – includes two game drives. Kanha National Park – includes four game drives. Bandhavgarh National Park – includes two game drives. Khajuraho – guided tour of western group of temples. Orchha – explore the Fort Palace. Outline itinerary 1. In Delhi; afternoon sightseeing tour of Old Delhi. 2. Morning sightseeing tour of New Delhi; afternoon train to Ranthambore.
3. At Ranthambore; game drives. 4. At Ranthambore; optional game drives; overnight train to Jabalpur. 5. Arrive Jabalpur; drive to Kanha. 6 & 7. At Kanha; game drives. 8. Drive to Bandhavgarh. 9 & 10. At Bandhavgarh; game drives. 11. Drive to Khajuraho; afternoon visit to temples. 12. At Khajuraho, early morning game drive in Panna National Park; after breakfast visit temples; afternoon drive to Orchha; visit the Fort Palace. 13. At Orchha; take the evening train to Delhi. 14. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 12 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels; 1 night sleeper on overnight train; other transport and sightseeing as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout your journey in India. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals - 14 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 8 dinners.
Tour ref: TT FROM
£895
Tour Summary This tour focuses on two aspects of India: the colonial-era hill stations and the wildlife. Mussoorie is a fascinating hill resort, while Auli is an important ski destination in the Himalayan mountains of Uttarakhand. But if the British popularised the concept of the hill station, they also hunted the tiger populations that roamed the area. Thankfully those days are behind us and tiger preservation projects have replaced the rifle. Jim Corbett National Park, near Nainital, Uttarakhand, is one of India’s oldest national parks and is known for the preservation of endangered Bengal tigers. tour Highlights Delhi – half-day tour of Old Delhi. Mussoorie – hill station with views of the Himalayas. Rishikesh – walking tour of one of India’s holy places. Haridwar – one of the seven holiest places for Hindus. Auli – ski resort reached by cable car. Jim Corbett National Park – elephant and tiger safaris.
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; half-day Old Delhi tour. 2. In Delhi; overnight train to Dehradun. 3. Arrive Dehradun; transfer to Mussoorie; walking tour. 4. Drive to Rishikesh; walking tour. 5. In Rishikesh; visit Haridwar. 6. Drive to Rudra Prayag. 7. Drive to Joshimath. 8. Excursion to Auli by cable car. 9. Drive to Kausani. 10. Drive to Almora. 11. Drive to Corbett National Park, 12 & 13. In Corbett National Park. 14. Train to Delhi. 15. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 11 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels; 3 nights at Corbett Resort; 1 overnight train with sleeper; transport and sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader from Delhi to Delhi. Single room option – available at all night stops, except on sleeper train. Included meals – 14 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 26-27_TI_WILDLIFE_SBv10.indd 27
Tour ref: HE FROM
£995 27 10/7/13 13:33:52
Cycling Adventures
Garhwal Cycle Trek & Tiger Safari 9 day tour, including a 4 day cycle trek to Corbett NP
Cycling Adventures Cycling with one of our small groups, your cycle hire is included in the cost of your holiday, and your cycle is prepared for you by our support staff before the tour starts. There is also the security of having a back-up vehicle following behind in case of any problems. Cycling allows you to see more of the landscape than on foot, but still at a pace that allows you to appreciate and absorb the sights and sounds around you. We provide Trek 4300, 24 gear Mountain Bikes, with front suspension. The only equipment that you must bring is your helmet. Your luggage is transferred ahead to the next night’s stop, so all you have to carry with you are essentials such as water, a few snacks and your camera.
28 28-31_TI_Cycling_SBv8.indd 28
Tour Summary This short cycling tour focuses on the Garhwal region of India, up in the misty foothills of the Himalayas, in the state of Uttarakhand, which borders Nepal. On this tour we will experience a mixture of adventurous cycling, local life in the villages, and some stupendous mountain scenery. On our cycle trek we can see the largest range of snowcapped mountain peaks of the Indian Himalayas in a series of breathtaking views. We also spend some time cycling along the sacred Ganges, with a look at life in the riverside villages. Finally we put our bicycles aside and concentrate on the wildlife in Corbett National Park– true tiger country. Highlights of the tour Delhi – half-day tour of Old Delhi. Rishikesh – gateway to the Himalayas; religious and rafting centre. 4-day cycle trek – ride through local villages with incredible mountain views. Corbett National Park – game drives in tiger country.
Our Cycle Trek The total distance we cycle is around 180km in 4 days, an average of 45km per day. This trek is graded as challenging. For more details see page 5. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; half-day Old Delhi tour. 2. Train to Haridwar; drive to Rishikesh; warm-up ride. 3. Drive to Dev Prayag; cycle to Pauri. 4. Cycle to Mandakhal. 5. Cycle to Thalisain. 6. Cycle to Corbett National Park. 7. In Corbett National Park. 8. Drive to Lalkuan; train to Delhi. 9. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 6 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels; 2 nights’ camping; other transport and sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader and support staff on cycle trek. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners.
Tour ref: CGW FROM
£995
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 13:35:59
Cycling Adventures
Rajasthan Cycle Trek
Kumaon Cycle Trek
15 day tour, including a 7 day cycle trek and a camel safari
15 day tour, including 9 day cycle trek taking in Corbett NP
Tour Summary This tour focuses on Rajasthan, perhaps India’s most colourful state. From Udaipur, we ride through the jungle to Ranakpur, pedal through remote villages and across stretches of desert. We’ll pass palaces, forts and temples, and once we will forsake our cycles and ride a camel. Highlights of the tour Delhi – half-day tours of Delhi. Udaipur – lakes and palaces. Kumbhalgarh – explore the fort. Rajasthani villages – traditional rural life. Pushkar – Thar Desert camel safari. 7-day cycle trek – ride through desert villages. Our Cycle Trek On this tour we cover approximately 270km in 8 days, an average of 34km per day. This trek is graded as moderate. For more details see page 5. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; Old Delhi tour. 2. In Delhi; tour of New Delhi; overnight train to Udaipur. 3. In Udaipur; warm-up cycle ride. 4. Drive to Kumbhalgarh; cycle to
Ranakpur and Narlai. 5. Cycle to Jojawar. 6. Cycle to Dhamli. 7. Cycle to Khetawas. 8. Cycle to Rohit. 9. Cycle to Luni. 10. Cycle to Jhalamand. 11. Drive to Jodhpur; visit Mehrangarh Fort. 12. Drive to Pushkar. 13. At Pushkar; camel safari in Thar desert; overnight desert camp. 14. Drive to Ajmer; train to Delhi. 15. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 11 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels; 1 night on sleeper train; 1 night in Heritage Hotel; 1 night camping; other transport and sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout your journey in India and support staff on trek. Single room option – available at all night stops at hotels or camping; not available on overnight train. Included meals – 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 7 dinners.
Tour ref: CRC FROM
£1,125
Tour Summary This tour focuses on cycling in the Kumaon region of the Himalayas, one of the most scenically stunning areas in India. Our cycle route is through the flat valleys of the Almora district, scattered with little rivers, villages and small towns. Our 9-day cycle trek takes a break near the end to spend a day in tiger country at Corbett National Park before we return to the bustle of Delhi. Highlights of the tour Delhi – half day tour of Old Delhi. Almora – iconic hill station. 9-day cycle trek – ride through local villages, with incredible mountain views. Ranikhet – hill station. Corbett National Park – game viewing in tiger country. Our Cycle Trek We cover approximately 315km in 9 days, an average of 35km per day. This trek is graded as challenging. For more details of our cycle treks see page 5.
3. Drive to Almora. 4. Cycle to Baijnath. 5. Cycle to Kausani. 6. Cycle to Binta. 7. Cycle to Ranikhet. 8. Cycle to Bhatrajkhan. 9. Cycle to Corbett National Park. 10. In Corbett National Park; with game viewing. 11. Cycle to Kotabag. 12. Cycle to Kaladungi. 13. Cycle to Haldwani. 14. Train to Delhi. 15. Tour ends. What’s included in The Itinerary? 9 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels; 1 night at a local guesthouse; 1 night at a farmhouse; 2 nights’ camping; 1 night on an overnight sleeper train; other transport and sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader and support staff throughout your journey in India. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 14 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 9 dinners.
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; Old Delhi tour. 2. Train to Kathgodam.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 28-31_TI_Cycling_SBv8.indd 29
Tour ref: CKM FROM
£1,595 29 10/7/13 13:36:42
Cycling Adventures
Himachal Cycle Trek
Kerala Cycle Trek
15 day tour, including 10 day cycle trek from Kangra to Shimla
14 day tour, including 8 days cycling through tea country
Tour Summary We cycle for 10 days through the state of Himachal Pradesh, in the foothills of the Himalayas, glimpsing life in the villages and stupendous mountain scenery. From Amritsar we head into the hills, riding through the Kangra valley to McLeodganj, home of the Dalai Lama, before crossing into the Kulu valley and climbing up to Narkanda. We end our cycle trek in the iconic hill station of Shimla. tour Highlights Delhi – tour of Old Delhi. Amritsar – visit the Golden Temple. Pragpur – explore a heritage village. 10-day cycle trek – ride through the Kangra and Kulu valleys. McLeodganj – Dalai Lama’s home village. Andretta – artists’ village. Shimla – iconic hill station. Our Cycle Trek We cycle approximately 455km in 10 days, an average of 45km per day. The trek is graded as challenging. For more details of our cycle treks see page 5. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; half-day Old Delhi Tour.
30 28-31_TI_Cycling_SBv8.indd 30
2. Tour; evening train to Amritsar. 3. In Amritsar; visit Golden Temple; drive to Pragpur. 4. Cycle to Kangra. 5. Cycle to McLeodganj. 6. Cycle to Andretta. 7. Cycle to Jogindernagaar. 8. Cycle to Mandi. 9. Cycle to Larji. 10. Cycle to Shoja. 11. Cycle to Luhri. 12. Cycle to Narkanda. 13. Cycle to Shimla. 14. In Shimla; train to Delhi. 15. Tour ends. What’s included in The Itinerary? 8 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels; 5 nights’ camping; 1 night in a tourist bungalow; other transport and sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout your journey and support staff on cycle trek. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 14 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 10 dinners.
Tour ref: CHT FROM
£1,245
Tour Summary We focus on rural life in Kerala, cycling slowly through a land of backwaters and plantations. We’ll stay with local families; sail on a traditional houseboat; visit tea and spice plantations; and see wildlife in Periyar Sanctuary. We’ll ride through the exotic landscape of Kerala, a land of spices and waterways and roads made for cycling. tour Highlights Kovalam – endless beaches. Kerala backwaters – the lifeblood of rural communities. Houseboats – backwaters cruise. Village life – stay with local families. Periyar National Park – look for tigers. Munnar – tea plantations, spice gardens. Kathakali – classical dance-drama of Kerala. Our Cycle Trek We cycle approximately 500km in 8 cycling days, averaging some 63km per day. The terrain for some of this cycle trek is quite hilly; this is hill station country. The trek is graded as moderate. For more details of our cycle treks see page 5.
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Kochi; day at leisure 2. Cycle to Thattekad. 3. Cycle to Adimali. 4. Cycle to Munnar. 5. In Munnar. 6. Cycle to Suryanelli. 7. Cycle to Periyar. 8. In Periyar; game viewing. 9. Cycle to Thodupuzha. 10. In Thodupuzha. 11. Cycle to Kumarakom; riceboat cruise. 12. Cycle to Alleppey. 13. Train to Trivandrum; drive to Kovalam. 14. Tour ends. What’s included in The Itinerary? 8 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels; 3 nights with local families; 1 night in a farmhouse; 1 night at a fixed camping site; transport and sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader from Kochi to Kovalam and support staff on cycle trek. Single room option – at all night stops, except overnights with local families. Included meals – 13 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners.
Tour ref: CKC FROM
£895
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 13:37:26
‘A cycling trek is a great combination of activity and chilling out, with cycling on some days and enjoying the slow pace of village life on others’ Koshy M John, Tour Leader
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10/7/13 13:38:03
Family Adventures
Family Kerala 14 day tour, including a week exploring the south’s backwaters
Family Adventures Travelling on one of our small group family adventures allows your children to make new friends, while giving you a break as all the logistics are taken care of. And of course for the same reasons our family holidays are particularly suited to single parent families. Our family tours have a slower-paced itinerary, designed to be more suitable for your children, and there are no overnight train journeys or overly-long drives, so that the pace of the tour is more appropriate for young travellers. This will allow you to introduce them to one of the world’s most colourful and vibrant countries at an impressionable age. We suggest that children should be six years of age before joining any of our family adventures.
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Tour Summary This tour concentrates on Kerala, one of the most fascinating states of southern India, where we explore the enchanting coastal strip of land between the high Sahya ranges in the east and the vast Arabian Sea to the west. We cruise, and stay overnight, on a traditional Kerala houseboat and stay with local village families, then walk through Periyar Reserve, and visit exotic spice gardens and tea plantations before relaxing on the beaches of Kovalam. tour Highlights A traditional Kerala houseboat experience – cruise and stay overnight. Overnight stay with local families. Periyar National Park – nature trek. Munnar – visit to a tea plantation and a spice garden; join a cookery class and learn about the local cuisine. An evening of Kathakali dancing – the classical dance-drama of Kerala. Kovalam’s beaches – time to relax.
3. Drive to Thottappally; board a traditional Kerala houseboat. 4. Disembark from houseboat; check in for overnight with a local family. 5. Drive to Periyar; afternoon game drive. 6. In Periyar, optional nature walk; afternoon spice plantation visit. 7. Drive Vagamon. 8. In Vagamon. 9. Drive to Munnar; afternoon tea plantation tour. 10. Drive to Kochi; evening visit to Kathakali Dance. 11. In Kochi; guided tour of the city. 12. Train to Trivandrum; transfer to Kovalam. 13. In Kovalam; day at leisure. 14. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 11 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels; 1 night on a traditional houseboat; 1 overnight stay in the simple home of a local family. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 13 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners.
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Trivandrum; transfer to Kovalam. 2. In Kovalam; explore Kovalam beach.
Tour ref: FFK FROM
£737
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 13:40:13
Family Adventures
Families, Tigers and Taj Mahal
Families in the Footsteps of the Mughals
7 day tour – a week of wildlife and the wonderful Taj
9 day tour – discovering the Mughals and looking for tigers
Tour Summary On this short tour we focus on the wildlife of India, with time at two of the country’s most interesting wildlife parks. We look for tiger, leopard and crocodile in Ranthambore National Park and then more tiger along with the birdlife at Bharatpur’s Keoladeo National Park. We then head for another of the most interesting sights in India, the incomparable Taj Mahal in Agra. As this tour is designed for families there are no overnight train journeys or overly-long drives, and the pace of the tour is more appropriate for young travellers. tour Highlights Delhi – half-day tours of Old Delhi and New Delhi. Ranthambore – 2 days of game drives in search of tiger. Keoladeo National Park – included game viewing, by cycle rickshaw. Fatehpur Sikri – guided tour of one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture in India. Agra –guided tour of the incomparable Taj Mahal (the perfect place for young photographers to practise) and Red Fort.
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; half-day Old Delhi Tour. 2. In Delhi; morning tour of New Delhi; afternoon train to Ranthambore National Park. 3 & 4. In Ranthambore National Park; morning and afternoon game drives and visit to Ranthambore Fort. 5. Train to Bharatpur; visit Keoladeo Sanctuary; drive to Fatehpur Sikri and continue to Agra. 6. In Agra; spend the morning visiting the majestic Taj Mahal and Agra Fort (bring your camera!); evening train to Delhi. 7. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 6 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels and Heritage Hotels; transport and sightseeing as described in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader from Delhi to Delhi. Single room option – available at all night stops on this tour. Included meals – 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 4 dinners (1 dinner is on the train from Agra to Delhi).
Tour ref: FTM FROM
£635
Tour Summary This tour is the perfect introduction to India, and in particular to the world of the Mughal rulers who left such dramatic reminders of their rule, including their Red Forts, the deserted Fatehpur Sikri, and the incomparable Taj Mahal at Agra. We have time, too, to look for tiger, ride an elephant and glimpse something of cultural life in the rural villages of India. As is more appropriate for young travellers, there are no overnight train journeys or overly-long drives on this tour. tour Highlights Delhi – half-day guided tour. Jaipur – guided sightseeing of Amber Fort and the city. Ranthambore National Park – two game drives. Karauli – village tour. Bharatpur – visit to Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary by cycle rickshaw. Fatehpur Sikri – guided tour of this deserted Mughal city. Agra – guided tour of the Taj Mahal and Red Fort (budding photographers should bring lots of batteries).
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; tour of New Delhi. 2. Morning sightseeing tour of Old Delhi; afternoon train to Jaipur. 3. In Jaipur; morning visit to Amber Fort; afternoon city tour. 4. Morning drive to Ranthambore; optional afternoon game safari. 5. At Ranthambore; game drives. 6. Drive to Karauli; afternoon village tour. 7. Drive via Bharatpur and Fatehpur Sikri to Agra. 8. Morning visit to Taj Mahal and Agra Fort; afternoon train to Delhi. 9. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 5 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels; and 3 nights in Heritage Havelis; train AC Chair class; other sightseeing and transport as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout your journey in India. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 32-33_TI_FAMILY_SBv8.indd 33
Tour ref: FFM FROM
£630 33 10/7/13 13:40:50
Rail Adventures
Bengal to Punjab by Rail 14 day tour – train across North India from east to west
Rail Adventures India’s rail network is vast. In a very real sense the trains hold the country together with many express trains covering thousands of miles, over many hours. And travelling on one of our small group rail tours offers the ideal way to get to know more of India. To travel on an Indian train is to travel as part of a moving village; wandering through the carriages meeting friendly local fellow travellers adds immeasurably to the journey, whilst spending the night on an overnight sleeper train is an atmospheric experience. From the Toy Trains serving Shimla, Darjeeling, Matheran and Ooty, to the transcontinental expresses that link the major cities, there is a wealth of rail adventures to be had in India. Our love of Indian trains also means that many of our tours use the railways at some point in the itinerary.
34 34-37__TI_Rail_SBv11.indd 34
Tour Summary Riding Indian trains is all about meeting fellow travellers and travelling on a moving village. We’ll encounter the spiritual side of India at Bodhgaya, by the holy River Ganges in Varanasi and at Amritsar’s Golden Temple. We’ll see the symbol of love that is the Taj Mahal and ride a Toy Train up into the Himalayas, before we arrive in Delhi. tour Highlights Kolkata – guided tour. Bodhgaya – guided tour. Varanasi – city tour and boat ride on the River Ganges. Lucknow – guided tour. Agra – guided tour of the Taj Mahal. Shimla – ride the Toy Train. Amritsar – visit the Golden Temple. Delhi – half-day guided tour of Old Delhi. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Kolkata. 2. Full day sightseeing tour of Kolkata. 3. In Kolkata, morning at leisure; afternoon train to Bodhgaya. 4. Walking tour of Bodhgaya; train to Varanasi. 5. In Varanasi; boat on the Ganges;
walking tour of Varanasi. 6. Excursion to Sarnath; train to Lucknow. 7. In Lucknow; sightseeing tour; train to Agra. 8. In Agra; visit Taj Mahal and Agra Fort; overnight train to Kalka. 9. Toy Train to Shimla. 10. Full day sightseeing tour of Shimla. 11. Drive to Ambala; train to Amritsar. 12. Morning tour of Golden Temple and Jalianwala Bagh; afternoon excursion to Wagah Border; overnight train to Delhi. 13. Half-day guided city sightseeing tour of Old Delhi. 14. Tour ends. What’s included in THE Itinerary? 11 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels, 2 nights’ sleeper on overnight train; other transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout your journey in India. Single room option – available at all night stops except on overnight trains. Included meals – 13 breakfasts and 1 dinner on train.
Tour ref: RBP FROM
£925
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 13:42:12
Rail Adventures
Delhi to Kochi by Rail
Toy Trains of North India
15 day tour – train ride through India, North to South
9 day tour – Shimla, Darjeeling and the Kalka Mail
Tour Summary This tour is about meeting fellow train travellers as well as seeing the many sights. Starting from Old Delhi, we take in Amritsar’s Golden Temple, explore Agra and the Taj Mahal, visit Jaipur (‘the Pink City’), look for game in Ranthambore National Park, explore the sights of Mumbai, and spend some time on Goa’s famous beaches, before reaching Kochi, in Kerala. tour Highlights Delhi – half-day tour of Old Delhi. Amritsar – visit Golden Temple and the Wagha Border. Agra – Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Jaipur – city tour and visit Amber Fort. Ranthambore – game drives. Mumbai – Bollywood city. Goa – famous beaches. Kochi – Kerala’s pretty port. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; optional half-day tour of Old Delhi. 2. Train to Amritsar; visit Wagha Border. 3. In Amritsar; visit Golden Temple; overnight train to Agra.
4. Arrive Agra; visit Taj Mahal. 5. Visit Agra Fort; drive to Bharatpur via Fatehpur Sikri; train to Jaipur. 6. In Jaipur; city tour. 7. Visit Amber Fort; train to Ranthambore. 8. In Ranthambore; full day game drives. 9. In Ranthambore; optional game drives; overnight train to Mumbai. 10. Arrive Mumbai; afternoon sightseeing. 11. Train to Goa. 12. Full day in Goa; overnight train to Kochi. 13. Full day in Kochi. 14. In Kochi; cruise to Kumarakom. 15. Tour ends. What’s included in The Itinerary? 11 nights’ accommodation in midrange hotels; 3 nights’ sleeper accommodation on trains; sightseeing and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader from Delhi to Kochi. Single room option - available at all night stops except on overnight trains. Included meals - 14 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners.
Tour ref : RDC FROM
£995
Tour Summary This shorter rail journey focuses on the narrow-gauge Toy Trains of India. We travel on the route to Shimla and the route to Darjeeling, each line linking the plains of India to one of the country’s most iconic hill stations. We link our two Toy Train journeys using the main-line express trains. This tour is for travellers who like mixing with and meeting local people as much as for those who love trains. tour Highlights Delhi – half-day tour of Old Delhi. Kalka – catch Toy Train to Shimla. Shimla – guided walking tour. Kalka Mail – longest train on the Indian railway system. Varanasi – explore the holy city. Kurseong – catch Toy Train to Darjeeling. Darjeeling – tea plantation country. Kolkata – Bengal’s capital. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; guided tour of Old Delhi. 2. Train to Kalka; Toy Train to Shimla. 3. Drive to Kalka railway station; overnight train to Varanasi. 4. On board the Kalka Mail; evening arrival
into the holy city of Varanasi. 5. In Varanasi; overnight train to New Jalpaiguri. 6. Arrive New Jalpaiguri; drive to Darjeeling. 7. In Darjeeling; drive to New Jalpaiguri; overnight train to Kolkata. 8. In Kolkata. 9. Tour ends. Flight option Kalka to Varanasi takes about 20 hours. We can leave the Kalka Mail in Delhi at breakfast time on day 4 and take a 90 minute flight to Varanasi, allowing more time to explore the city. A supplement applies. What’s included in The Itinerary? 5 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels; 3 nights’ sleeper on overnight trains; sightseeing and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader from Delhi to Kolkata. Single room option – available at all night stops except on overnight train journeys. Included meals – 8 breakfasts.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 34-37__TI_Rail_SBv11.indd 35
Tour ref: RTN FROM
£745 35 10/7/13 13:42:58
Rail Adventures
Toy Trains of South India
Toy Trains of North and South India
9 day tour – Matheran, Ooty and the beaches of Goa
16 day tour – four Toy Train lines to four iconic hill stations
Tour Summary Built for pleasure, leisure and socialising – though not for speed! – there are five ‘Toy Train’ rail routes in the country and on this tour we travel on two which lie in southern India. One runs between Neral and Matheran and the other up to Ooty, each line climbing up to one of the country’s most iconic hill stations. They are atmospheric links to the colonial past. We link our two Toy Train journeys using the main-line express trains down the western coast of India and include some time in Goa. This tour is for travellers who like mixing with and meeting local people as much as for those who love trains. tour Highlights Mumbai – guided tour of India’s biggest city. Matheran – environmentally aware town with no cars. Goa – explore the old Portuguese colony or relax on the beaches. Ooty – iconic hill station. Mettupalayam – ride the Toy Train. Kochi – afternoon guided tour.
36 34-37__TI_Rail_SBv11.indd 36
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Mumbai. 2. Train via Neral to Matheran. 3. Toy Train to Neral; drive to Pune; overnight train to Goa. 4. Arrive Goa; full day in Goa. 5. Morning in Goa; late afternoon, take overnight train to Bangalore. 6. Arrive Bangalore; drive to Ooty. 7. Toy Train to Mettupalyam; drive to Coimbatore. 8. Train to Kochi; afternoon guided tour of the city. 9. Tour ends. What’s included in The Itinerary? 6 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels; 2 nights’ sleeper accommodation on overnight trains; sightseeing and transport as detailed in the itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader from Mumbai to Kochi. Single room option – available at all hotels. Not available on overnight train journeys. Included meals - 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner.
Tour ref: RTS FROM
£725
Tour Summary We travel on four of India’s Toy Trains: the lines to Shimla, Darjeeling, Matheran and Ooty. We link these journeys using the main-line express trains, and include time in Goa. tour Highlights Delhi – tour of Old Delhi. Kalka – Toy Train to Shimla hill station. Kalka Mail – longest train in India. Varanasi – visit the holy city. Darjeeling – tea plantation country. Matheran – ride the Toy Train. Goa – former Portuguese colony. Ooty – iconic hill station and Toy Train. Kochi – afternoon guided tour. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; guided tour of Old Delhi. 2. Train to Kalka; Toy Train to Shimla. 3. Drive to Kalka; overnight train to Varanasi. 4. On the Kalka Mail; evening arrival. 5. In Varanasi; overnight train to New Jalpaiguri. 6. Arrive New Jalpaiguri; drive to Darjeeling. 7. In Darjeeling; drive to New Jalpaiguri; overnight train to Kolkata. 8. In Kolkata; evening flight to Mumbai. 9. Train via Neral to Matheran.
10. Toy Train to Neral; drive to Pune; overnight train to Goa. 11. Arrive Goa; full day in Goa. 12. In Goa; overnight train to Bangalore. 13. Arrive Bangalore; drive to Ooty. 14. Toy Train to Mettupalyam; drive to Coimbatore. 15. Train to Kochi; afternoon guided tour. 16. Tour ends. Flight option Kalka to Varanasi takes about 20 hours. We can leave the Kalka Mail in Delhi at breakfast time on day 4 and take a 90min flight to Varanasi, allowing more time to explore the city. A supplement applies. What’s included in The Itinerary? 10 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels; 5 nights’ sleeper on overnight trains; sightseeing and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader from Delhi to Kolkata and from Mumbai to Kochi. Single room option – available at all night stops except on overnight trains. Included meals - 15 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner.
Tour ref: RTNS FROM
£1,485
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 13:44:03
‘I enjoy watching my clients’ excitement as our voyage down the River Ganges ends with our arrival among the sounds and sights of Varanasi’ Tarseem Singh, sailing tours manager
34-37__TI_Rail_SBv11.indd 37
10/7/13 13:45:15
Private Car Adventures
By Private Car in the Footsteps of the Mughals 9 day tour – the ideal introduction to the world of the Mughals
Private Car Adventures If the dates of our group tours do not suit you, or if one or two of you would just prefer to travel by yourself, then our private car tours may be suitable for you. An Ambassador motor car, the iconic Indian automobile based upon the British Morris Oxford of half a century ago, is the classic Indian luxury car. Travelling in your own private car allows you the flexibility of being able to adjust and amend timings during the day, as there’s just you and your Driver/Escort, together with local guides who will join at times. Private car tours can be booked to start on any date; simply supply us with your preferred dates and, subject to accommodation being available, we will confirm your tour. And if you would prefer a more modern, and somewhat faster, car just tell us and we will provide one at no additional cost.
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Tour summary This tour offers the perfect introduction to India, and in particular to the world of the Mughal rulers who left such dramatic reminders of their rule, including their Red Forts, the deserted Fatehpur Sikri, and the incomparable Taj Mahal at Agra. There is time, too, to leave the historical side of India behind and glimpse something of cultural life in the rural villages of the India of today. This tour can be booked to start on any date of your choice; simply supply us with your preferred dates and, subject to accommodation being available, we will confirm your tour. Tour Highlights Private car – with own Driver/Escort. Delhi – two half day guided tours. Jaipur – city tour and Amber Fort. Pachewar – village visit. Karauli – village visit. Bharatpur – visit to the Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary. Fatehpur Sikri – guided tour. Agra – guided tour of the Taj Mahal and Red Fort.
Outline itinerary 1. In Delhi; afternoon sightseeing tour of Old Delhi. 2. Sightseeing tour of New Delhi; evening train to Jaipur. 3. In Jaipur; full-day sightseeing. 4. Morning drive to Pachewar village; sightseeing tour. 5. Morning drive to Karauli; head out on a sightseeing tour. 6. Morning drive to Bharatpur; visit to Bird Sanctuary. 7. Drive via Fatehpur Sikri to Agra. 8. Morning visit to Taj Mahal and Agra Red Fort; then drive to Delhi. 9. Tour ends. What’s included in the itinerary? 4 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels; 4 nights in Heritage Havelis; train AC Chair class; sightseeing and other transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Driver/ Escort throughout your journey in India. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 3 dinners.
Tour ref: PFM FROM
£865
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
38-43_TI_PRIVATE CAR_SBv7.indd 38
10/7/13 13:46:33
Private Car Adventures
By Private Car into the Rajasthan Desert
By Private Car to the Palaces of Rajasthan
14 day tour – colourful cities, jeeps and a camel ride
14 day tour – desert cities, a camel trek and converted palaces
Tour summary This tour focuses on the desert state of Rajasthan, a vibrant, colourful land of palaces, forts, temples and trading towns. You’ll see caravanserais, painted houses and camel corps headquarters, and venture into the desert on a camel safari. This tour can start on any date of your choice, subject to accommodation being available. Tour Highlights Private car – with own Driver/Escort. Delhi – two half day guided tours. Udaipur – walking tour. Bhenswara – jeep safari to visit the Rabari tribe. Jodhpur – guided tour, visiting the Mehrangarh Fort. Jaisalmer – guided tour. Kuldhara – village visit. Sodakore – camel safari. Bikaner – guided sightseeing tour. Mandawa – tour of painted houses. Outline itinerary 1. In Delhi; afternoon tour of Old Delhi. 2. Sightseeing tour of New Delhi; overnight train to Udaipur. 3. Arrive Udaipur; walking tour.
4. In Udaipur. 5. Drive to Bhenswara via Ranakpur; jeep safari to visit Rabari tribes. 6. Drive to Jodhpur; sightseeing tour. 7. Drive to Jaisalmer. 8. In Jaisalmer; sightseeing tour. 9. Visit to Kuldhara village; drive to Sodakore; village walk. 10. Camel safari; drive to Bikaner. 11. In Bikaner. 12. Drive to Mandawa; visit the paintings at Mandawa. 13. Drive to Loharu; train to Delhi. 14. Tour ends. What’s included in the itinerary? 11 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels and Heritage Hotels; 1 night in a fixed camp in the desert; 1 night overnight train with sleeper; other sightseeing and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Driver/ Escort throughout your journey in India. Single room option – available at all night-stops except for one overnight on a train. Included meals – 13 breakfasts; 2 lunches and 3 dinners.
Tour ref: PRS FROM
£1,095
Tour Summary This tour focuses on the colourful state of Rajasthan and her desert settlements – Bikaner, home of the camel corps, and Jaisalmer – and Jodhpur and Udaipur, with their ornate palaces. You’ll travel by car, camel and jeep by day and at night you’ll stay in converted palaces and forts that have been turned into comfortable hotels providing accommodation with character. This tour can start on any date of your choice, subject to accommodation being available. Tour Highlights Private car – with own Driver/Escort. Delhi – half-day tour of Old Delhi in cycle rickshaws. Heritage Hotels – palaces and forts converted into hotels of character and charm. Bikaner – guided visit around the painted houses. Jaisalmer – guided tour. Jodhpur – guided tour. Manvar – camel safari into the Thar desert. Kumbhalgarh – hilltop fortress. Udaipur – guided tour.
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; half-day Old Delhi Tour. 2. Train and drive to Nawalgarh. 3. Drive to Bikaner; camel farm visit. 4. In Bikaner; guided tour. 5. Drive to Jaisalmer. 6. In Jaisalmer; guided tour. 7. Drive to Dechu; visit villages en route. 8. Camel safari; drive to Jodhpur. 9. In Jodhpur; tour of Mehrangarh Fort. 10. Drive to Narlai via Ranakpur. 11. Drive to Udaipur via Kumbhalgarh. 12. In Udaipur; guided walking tour. 13. In Udaipur; optional excursion to Chittorgarh Fort. 14. Udaipur; tour ends. What’s included in the itinerary? 13 nights’ accommodation in Heritage Hotels and converted palaces with character and history; transport and sightseeing as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Driver/Escort from Delhi to Udaipur. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 13 breakfasts and 3 dinners.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 38-43_TI_PRIVATE CAR_SBv7.indd 39
Tour ref: PLPR FROM
£1,395 39 10/7/13 13:47:40
Private Car Adventures
By Private Car to Hill Stations and Tigers
By Private Car to Remote Villages
15 day tour – Rishikesh, Almora and Corbett National Park
14 day tour – rural Rajasthan and the Rann of Kutch
Tour Summary This tour focuses on two aspects of India: its colonial hill stations – mostly created as cool refuges from the summer heat – and its remarkable, unique wildlife. Corbett National Park, near Nainital, Uttarakhand, is one of India’s oldest national parks and known for the preservation of the endangered Bengal tiger. It’s also a choice place to experience some of India’s most extraordinary flora, fauna and wildlife – including elephant, deer and a great diversity of birdlife. This tour can start on any date of your choice, subject to accommodation being available. Tour Highlights Private car – with own Driver/Escort. Delhi – half-day tour of Old Delhi. Mussoorie – amazing views of the snow-peaked Himalayas. Rishikesh – walking tour of one of India’s holy places. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; half-day Old Delhi tour. 2. In Delhi; overnight train to Dehradun.
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3. Arrive Dehradun; transfer to Mussoorie; walking tour. 4. Drive to Rishikesh; walking tour. 5. In Rishikesh, visit Haridwar. 6. Drive to Rudra Prayag. 7. Drive to Joshimath. 8. Excursion to Auli by cable car. 9. Drive to Kausani. 10. Drive to Almora. 11. Drive to Corbett National Park. 12 & 13. In Corbett National Park. 14. Train to Delhi. 15. Tour ends. What’s included in the itinerary?: 11 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels; 2 nights at Corbett Resort; 1 overnight sleeper train; transport and sightseeing as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Local Escort from Delhi to Dehradun; Driver/Escort from Dehradun to Corbett; and Local Escort from Corbett to Delhi. Single room option – available at all night stops, except on overnight sleeper train. Included meals – 14 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners.
Tour ref: PHE FROM
£1,195
Tour Summary Rajasthan and Gujurat are vibrant and colourful lands of palaces, forts, temples and trading towns, but also where the traditions of India live on. You’ll visit the city of Udaipur, but explore desert communities such as Pushkar, Bhadrajun, Kumbhalgarh and Bhuj and the Rann of Kutch, before the bustle of Mumbai. This tour can start on any date of your choice, subject to accommodation being available. Tour Highlights Private car – with own Driver/Escort. Delhi – tour of Old Delhi. Pachewar – village visit and cookery class. Pushkar – Holy Lake and temples. Ranakpur – Jain Temple. Udaipur – city tour. Bhuj – desert settlement. Rann of Kutch – village safari. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; half-day tour. 2. Train to Jaipur; transfer to Pachewar Garh. 3. Drive to Pushkar via Kishengarh. 4. Drive to Chandelao Garh village.
5. Drive to Bhadrajun; via Jodhpur. 6. Drive to Kumbhalgarh; visit Ranakpur. 7. Drive to Udaipur. 8. Drive to Dungarpur; head out to visit Dungarpur village. 9. Drive to Dasada; visit Mudhera temple. 10. Drive to Bhuj. 11. Drive towards Rann of Kutch; village safari. 12. Full day village visit; drive to Bhuj; overnight train to Mumbai. 13. Arrive Mumbai. 14. Tour ends. What’s included in the itinerary? 10 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels, 1 night at fixed camp, 1 night at Royal Castle, and 1 night on overnight train; other sightseeing and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Local Escort from Delhi to Jaipur; Driver/Escort from Jaipur to Bhuj; and Local Escort from Bhuj to Mumbai. Single room option – single rooms are available at all night stops except on overnight train. Included meals – 13 breakfasts and 7 dinners.
Tour ref: PVA FROM
£1,195
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
38-43_TI_PRIVATE CAR_SBv7.indd 40
10/7/13 13:48:25
Private Car Adventures
By Private Car Around Kerala
By Private Car Across Southern India
9 day tour – tea plantations, nature walks and backwaters
14 day tour – ancient temples, hill stations and backwaters
Tour Summary This tour concentrates on Kerala, one of the most fascinating states of southern India. You explore the enchanting coastal strip of land between the high Sahya ranges in the east and the vast Arabian Sea in the west. Along the way you will see beautiful waterfalls, exotic spice gardens and tea plantations while your overnights include time on a traditional style Kerala house boat and a local homestay before relaxing on the beaches of Kovalam. This tour can start on any date of your choice, subject to accommodation being available. Tour Highlights Private car – with own Driver/Escort. Kochi – city tour. Munnar – visit a tea plantation and spice gardens. Cheeyappara – visit waterfalls. Periyar – guided nature walk. Backwaters – cruise and overnight stay on a houseboat. Alleppey – village life and a stay with local families. Kovalam – time on the beach.
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Kochi; city tour. 2. In Kochi; day at leisure. 3. Drive via Cheeyappara waterfalls to Munnar; visit a tea plantation and Mattupetty. 4. Drive to Periyar. 5. Nature Trek in Periyar; drive to Alleppey for local homestay. 6. Embark on Kerala houseboat. 7. Disembark at Alleppey then drive to Kovalam; afternoon at leisure. 8. At Kovalam Beach. 9. Tour ends. What’s included in the itinerary? 6 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels; 1 night with local family; 1 night on a houseboat; other sightseeing and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Driver/Escort throughout your journey in India. Single room option – single rooms are available at all night stops, except on the houseboat and village house overnights. Included meals – 8 breakfast, 2 lunches and 2 dinners.
Tour ref: PDK FROM
£705
Tour Summary An unforgettable journey from the vibrant city of Chennai to the ancient temples of Mysore; the lush hills around Ooty and the backwaters of Kerala; from French Pondicherry to the beach temples of Mamallapuram. Travelling by train, riverboat and by private car you will traverse the lush states of the south. This tour can start on any date of your choice, subject to accommodation being available. Tour Highlights Private car – with own Driver/Escort. Periyar National Park – nature walk; tea plantation and spice garden visit. Madurai – Meenakshi temple. Pondicherry – where French influence meets India. Mamallapuram – shore temples. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Chennai; at leisure. 2. In Chennai; half-day tour; optional excursion to Kanchipuram; overnight train to Mysore. 3. In Mysore, visit Chamundi Hill to see Chamundeshwari Temple. 4. Drive to Ooty via Madu Malai
National Park. 5. Train to Coonoor; drive on to Coimbatore; train to Kochi. 6. In Kochi; full day tour. 7. Drive to Alleppey. 8. Drive to Madurai. 10. Drive to Tanjore; visit the carved Brihadeeshwara Temple. 11. Tour of Tanjore; drive to vibrant coastal Pondicherry. 12. Pondicherry tour; then drive to Mamallapuram. 13. In Mahabalipuram. 14. Tour ends. What’s included in the itinerary? 11 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels; 1 night overnight train; 1 night stay with local family; sightseeing and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of Totally India Driver/Escort throughout the tour. Single room option – single rooms are available at all night stops except on overnight train and when staying with local family. Included meals – 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 38-43_TI_PRIVATE CAR_SBv7.indd 41
Tour ref: PAS FROM
£1,295 41 10/7/13 13:49:04
Private Car Adventures
The Taste of North India by Private Car
The Taste of South India by Private Car
9 day culinary journey via the Taj with your own travelling chef
9 day culinary journey and a backwaters cruise
Tour Summary You visit Old Delhi, the Taj Mahal, and Jaipur. But along the way you spend time learning about the preparation of north Indian food, helping with the cooking or sitting back and watching. And travelling with you throughout the tour is your travelling chef, learning your preferences and abilities while bringing the cuisine of north India to life for you. This tour can start on any date of your choice, subject to accommodation being available. Tour Highlights Private car – with own Driver/Escort. Travelling chef – throughout your journey. Cooking sessions – three locations. Delhi – two half-day guided tours. Agra – guided tour of Taj Mahal and Red Fort. Agra – chapati trail Fatehpur Sikri – guided tour. Bharatpur – visit Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary. Jaipur – guided sightseeing of Jaipur and Amber Fortress. Jaipur – restaurant visit. Pushkar – camel safari in Thar Desert.
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Outline itinerary 1. In Delhi; tour of New Delhi. 2. Tour of Old Delhi; visit spice market; visit local family for cooking session. 3. Drive to Agra; guided visit to Taj Mahal; visit local market; chapati trail dinner. 4. Drive via Fatehpur Sikri to Bharatpur; visit local family for cooking session. 5. In Bharatpur: visit Bird Sanctuary; drive to Jaipur; visit local markets. 6. In Jaipur: city tour and Amber Fort. 7. Drive to Pechawar village; visit local villages; evening cookery session. 8. Drive to Pushkar; camel ride in the Thar Desert; drive to Ajmer; train to Delhi. 9. Tour ends.
Tour Summary Exploring Kerala, you will see exotic spice gardens and overnight on a traditional house boat and with local families, learning about the food of south India. You can help with the cooking or just sit back and watch. And travelling with you to local food markets and assisting at each cooking session is your travelling chef, bringing the cuisine of south India to life for you. This tour can start on any date of your choice; subject to accommodation being available.
What’s included in the itinerary? 7 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels; 1 night in a Heritage Hotel; sightseeing and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader and travelling chef throughout your journey. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 6 dinners.
Tour Highlights Private car – with own Driver/Escort. Travelling chef – throughout your journey. Cooking sessions – three locations Kochi – city tour. Alleppey – stay with local families and on a houseboat. Periyar – game viewing; visit to spice plantation. Periyar Reserve – nature walk.
Tour ref : PEN FROM
£1,535
3. Drive to Alleppey; local excursions; evening south India cuisine discussion; overnight with local families. 4. Morning cooking session and lunch; embark on houseboats. 5. Disembark from houseboats; afternoon walk; dinner preparation with your own chef; overnight with local families. 6. Drive to Periyar; spice plantation visit. 7. Game viewing; drive to Vagamon. 8. Drive to Kochi. 9. Tour ends. What’s included in the itinerary? 5 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels; 1 night on a traditional houseboat; 2 nights staying with local families; other sightseeing and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Driver/Escort and Travelling Chef throughout your journey in India. Single room option – single rooms are available at all night stops except on the houseboat and village house overnights. Included meals – 8 breakfast, 2 lunches and 4 dinners.
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Kochi; day at leisure. 2. In Kochi; guided city tour; lunch and visit local markets; evening cooking session.
Tour ref : PES FROM
£1,345
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
38-43_TI_PRIVATE CAR_SBv7.indd 42
10/7/13 13:50:24
Private Car Adventures
A Drive From the Tees to the Taj by Private Car 9 day tour – Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, with a few rounds of golf
The Contrasting Tastes of India by Private Car 16 day culinary journey from North to South Tour Summary You visit Old Delhi, the Taj Mahal and Jaipur, then stay with local families, learning about Indian food. With you is your travelling chef, helping bring the cuisine of India to life for you. This tour can start on any date of your choice, subject to accommodation being available. Tour Highlights Private car – with own Driver/Escort. Travelling chef – throughout your journey. Cooking sessions – seven locations. Delhi – guided tours. Agra – tour of Taj Mahal and chapati trail. Jaipur – guided sightseeing. Jaipur – local restaurant visit. Pushkar – camel safari. Alleppey – local families and houseboats. Periyar – nature walk; visit spice plantation. Outline itinerary 1. In Delhi; guided tour. 2. Delhi guided tour; visit spice market; visit local family for cooking session. 3. Drive to Agra; tour to Taj Mahal and Fort; visit local markets; chapati trail dinner. 4. Drive via Fatehpur Sikri to Bharatpur; visit local family; cooking session. 5. Visit Bird Sanctuary; drive to
Jaipur; visit local markets. 6. In Jaipur: guided tour; visit Amber Fort. 7. Drive to Pechawar; village excursion; cooking session. 8. Drive to Pushkar; camel safari; drive to Ajmer; train to Delhi. 9. Fly to Kochi; local markets and cooking. 10. Drive to Alleppey; local family stay. 11. In Alleppey; cooking session; board houseboat. 12. Walk; cooking; local family stay. 13. Drive to Periyar; spice plantation visit. 14. Game viewing; drive to Vagamon. 15. Drive to Kochi. 16. Tour ends. What’s included in the itinerary? 11 nights’ stay in mid-range hotels; 1 night in a Heritage Hotel; 1 night on houseboat; 2 nights with local families; sightseeing and transport as detailed; services of a Totally India Driver/Escort and travelling chef throughout. Single room option – available at all night stops except on houseboat and with local families. Included meals – 15 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 10 dinners.
Tour ref : PENS FROM
£2,995
Tour Summary This is a golf tour with a difference, and the perfect introduction to two aspects of India. Firstly, the rich history of this vast country, and secondly, golf like you’ve never played it before. The sport was first introduced back in colonial days and is now played on courses throughout the country, and you’ll get to tee off at some of the best and most beautiful of them, creating a unique sporting journey. You will get the opportunity to play on courses designed by legendary golfing professionals such as Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman; on a course right in the heart of Delhi; one in Jaipur built for a Maharani; and even one course that can boast the extraordinary backdrop of the Taj Mahal. The cost of your games is included in the tour, but buggies and caddies are not, as requirements may vary. This tour can start on any date of your choice, subject to accommodation and tee-off times being available. Tour Highlights Golf – play on 5 courses. Delhi – two guided tours. Jaipur – city tour and Amber Fort. Fatehpur Sikri – guided tour. Agra – guided tour of the Taj Mahal and Red Fort.
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; afternoon guided tour of historic Old Delhi – a vast wave of people, culture and cuisine. 2. In Delhi; play golf; afternoon guided tour of bustling New Delhi. 3. In Delhi; play golf right in the heart of town; drive to the ‘pink city’ of Jaipur. 4. In Jaipur; play golf; guided tour of Jaipur. 5. Visit Amber Fort; drive to Bharatpur; game viewing. 6. At Bharatpur; game viewing; drive via Fatehpur Sikri to Agra, where you will visit the incomparable Taj Mahal (make sure your camera’s well stocked with batteries). 7. Morning in Agra; play golf with the unforgettable image of the Taj Mahal in the background; visit Red Fort; drive to Noida. 8. In Noida; play golf; drive to Delhi. 9. Tour ends. What’s included in the itinerary? 7 nights’ accommodation in midrange hotels; 1 night in a golf resort hotel; 5 rounds of golf; other sightseeing and transport as detailed below; services of a Totally India Driver/Escort throughout your journey in India. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 8 breakfasts.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 38-43_TI_PRIVATE CAR_SBv7.indd 43
Tour ref : PGTT FROM
£1,195 43 10/7/13 13:51:10
Food Adventures
A Taste of North India 9 day culinary adventure through Rajasthan
Food Adventures
Travelling is often about trying the food of the area. But this is often only done in restaurants, without knowing the different dishes and how they are prepared. Our food adventures change this, thanks to our travelling chef, who will take us to markets and help us shop for ingredients and introduce us to local families who will show us the secrets of their cooking. We will go behind the scenes at a local restaurant and meet the chefs; we can try our hand at cooking, and our travelling chef will be there to help. We can relax and watch or we can join in; the degree of participation is up to us. If the dates of our food tours do not suit, or you prefer to travel individually, the same itineraries are available for one or two people, travelling on any date of their choice. For details please see our selection of Private Car tours.
44 44-45_TI_FOOD_SBv6.indd 44
Tour Summary The perfect introduction to the succulent cuisine of northern India. We visit Old Delhi, the iconic Taj Mahal, and Jaipur, and spend time with local families learning the secrets behind those spice-loaded flavours that North Indian food is famed for. And travelling with us throughout the tour – taking us to local markets and assisting at each cooking session – is our travelling chef, bringing the cuisine of North India to life for us. Tour Highlights Travelling chef – throughout your journey. Cooking sessions – three locations. Delhi – two half-day guided tours. Agra – guided tour of Taj Mahal and Fort. Agra – chapati trail. Fatehpur Sikri – guided tour. Bharatpur – visit bird sanctuary. Jaipur – city tour and Amber Fortress. Jaipur – behind-the-scenes local restaurant visit. Pachewar – excursion to local villages. Pushkar – camel safari.
spice market; visit local family for cooking session. 3. Train to Agra; guided visit to Taj Mahal and Fort; visit local market; Chapati Trail. 4. Drive via Fatehpur Sikri to Bharatpur; visit to local family for cooking session. 5. In Bharatpur: visit Bird Sanctuary; drive to Jaipur; visit local markets. 6. In Jaipur: guided tour to Amber Fort and Jaipur city; behind-the-scenes local restaurant visit in the evening. 7. Drive to Pechawar; visit local villages; evening cooking session. 8. Drive to Pushkar; camel safari; drive to Ajmer; train to Delhi. 9. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 7 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels; 1 night in a Heritage Hotel; sightseeing tours and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader and travelling chef throughout your journey in India. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 6 dinners.
Outline itinerary 1. In Delhi; guided tour of New Delhi. 2. Guided tour of Old Delhi; visit the
Tour ref: EN FROM
£745
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 13:52:50
Food Adventures
Contrasts in Cuisine 16 day food adventure, North and South
A Taste of South India 9 day food adventure in Kerala Tour Summary Visiting spice gardens, staying on a traditional houseboat and overnighting with local families, our journey offers a perfect introduction to the cuisine of southern India, as we spend time learning from them about the preparation of the food of South India. We can join in and help or just sit back and watch how it’s done. And travelling with us throughout the tour – taking us to local markets, assisting at each cooking session, and honing our abilities – is our travelling chef, bringing the cuisine of South India to life for us. Tour Highlights Travelling chef – throughout your journey. Cooking sessions – three locations. Kochi – city tour. Alleppey – stay with local families and on a traditional houseboat. Periyar – nature walk; visit to spice plantation. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Kochi; day at leisure. 2. In Kochi; guided city tour; lunch and visit to local markets; evening cooking session.
3. Drive to Alleppey; local excursions; south Indian cuisine discussion; overnight with local families. 4. Cooking session and lunch; embark on houseboats. 5. Disembark at Kumarkum; afternoon walk; dinner preparation with our own chef; overnight with local families. 6. Drive to Periyar; spice plantation visit. 7. Game viewing at Periyar; drive to Vagamon. 8. Drive to Kochi. 9. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 5 nights’ accommodation at standard mid-range hotels; 1 night on a traditional houseboat; 2 nights staying with local families; other sightseeing and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader and travelling chef throughout your journey in India. Single room option – single rooms are available at all night stops except on houseboat and village house overnights. Included meals – 8 breakfast, 2 lunches and 4 dinners.
Tour ref: ES FROM
£575
Tour Summary We visit Old Delhi, the Taj Mahal, and Jaipur, then we explore Kerala, overnighting on a traditional houseboat and staying with local families, learning about the preparation of Indian food. We can join in and help, or just sit back and watch. And travelling with us throughout the tour – taking us to local markets and assisting at each cooking session – is our travelling chef, bringing the cuisine of India to life for us. Tour Highlights Travelling chef – throughout your journey. Cooking sessions – six locations. Delhi – guided tours. Agra – guided tours; chapati trail. Fatehpur Sikri – guided tour. Bharatpur – visit bird sanctuary. Jaipur – city tour and Amber Fortress. Pushkar – camel safari in Thar Desert. Kochi – city tour. Alleppey – stay with local families; houseboat cruise. Periyar – nature walk; visit to the spice plantation. Outline itinerary 1. In Delhi; guided tour. 2. Guided tour; visit spice market; local family cooking session. 3. Train to Agra; Taj Mahal and Agra Fort tour; visit local markets; chapati trail. 4. Drive via Fatehpur Sikri to Bharatpur; local family cooking session.
5. Visit Bird Sanctuary; drive to Jaipur; visit local markets. 6. Amber Fort and Jaipur city tours. 7. Drive to Pechawar; visit local villages; evening cooking session. 8. Drive to Pushkar; camel safari; drive to Ajmer; train to Delhi. 9. Fly to Kochi; visit local markets; evening cooking session. 10. Drive to Alleppey; stay overnight with local families. 11. Cooking session and lunch; board the houseboats. 12. Disembark at Kumarkum; afternoon walk; cook with travelling chef; overnight with local families. 13. Drive to Periyar; spice plantation visit. 14. Game viewing; drive to Vagamon. 15. Drive to Kochi; city tour. 16. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 11 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels; 1 night in a heritage hotel; 1 night aboard houseboat; 2 nights with local families; sightseeing and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader and our travelling chef throughout. Single room option – available at all night stops except on houseboats and local family stays. Included meals – 15 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 9 dinners.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 44-45_TI_FOOD_SBv6.indd 45
Tour ref: ENS FROM
£1,485 45 10/7/13 13:54:29
Motor Adventures
North India Motorbike Safari 9 day tour – Rajasthan desert to Himalayan foothills
Motor Adventures India is an exciting mix of the ancient and the modern. Alongside such rural reminders of yesteryear as palaces, fortresses and the camel and the bullock cart for transport, the cities of India offer the noise and bustle of today as motorbikes and cars jostle in the streets and illustrate modern India’s love for the petrol engine. Three of our tours recognise this modern aspect of India. Our North India Motorbike Safari offers the chance to spend 6 days in the saddle; our South India tour offers a 12-day ride. Our third tour is more a case of watching than driving. In 2011 Formula One came to India – the ultimate in the development of the motor engine. Our tour offers a 9 day mix of the traditional and the modern: the Taj Mahal, looking for tiger at Sariska and two days at the Indian Grand Prix.
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Tour Summary From the Tiger Park of Sariska to the city of Jaipur, via the Chambal river and the rural village of Unchagaon, we climb up to Nainital and views of the Himalayas. The journey includes six days riding a motorbike through the rural states of the north of India. Tour Highlights Motorbike adventure – 6-day ride. Old Delhi – half-day tour. Sariska – looking for tiger. Jaipur – city tour and visit to Amber Fortress. Karauli – explore village. Unchagaon – rural village. Nainital – iconic hill station; guided tour. Our motorbike Safari We provide Royal Enfield motorbikes – either 350cc or 500cc (choice to be advised at the time of booking) – and ask that you have 2 years’ motorbike driving experience. Our tour covers about 1,150km in total. One day is 250km; the other 5 average 180km per day. Pillion passengers travel at a reduced cost.
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; tour of Old Delhi. 2. Ride to Sariska National Park; game viewing. 3. Game viewing; ride to Jaipur; tour of the famed ‘Pink City’. 4. In Jaipur; visit Amber fort; ride to Karauli; village visit. 5. Ride to Chambal; visit local villages. 6. At Chambal; optional boat safari; ride to Unchagaon; village visit. 7. Ride to Nainital; afternoon tour. 8. In Nainital; drive to Kathgodam; train to Delhi. 9. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 2 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotel in Delhi; 6 nights in Heritage Havelis; sightseeing and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout the tour; back-up vehicle support. Single room option – single rooms available at all night stops. Included meals - 8 breakfasts and 4 dinners.
Tour ref: MNI FROM
£1,465
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 13:56:03
Motor Adventures
South India Motorbike Safari
Mughals, Tigers and Motor Racing
15 day tour – from the Arabian Sea to the Bay of Bengal
10 day tour – the Taj and the Indian Grand Prix
Tour Summary Our extraordinary journey includes 12 days riding an iconic Royal Enfield motorbike through the lush states of the south of India, taking us from the beaches of Kovalam to the island of Rameshwaram; from the ancient temples of Madurai to French-influenced Pondicherry; and ending at the beach temples of Mamallapuram. Pillion passengers are welcome. Tour Highlights Motorbike adventure – 12-day ride. Rameshwaram – an island in the Bay of Bengal. Madurai – temple city. Pondicherry – French influence meets India. Mamallapuram – beach temples. Our motorbike Safari We provide Royal Enfield motorbikes – either 350cc or 500cc (choice to be advised at the time of booking) – and ask that you have 2 years’ motorbike driving experience. Our tour covers about 1,700km. One day is 300km; the other 11 average 120km per day. Pillion passengers travel at a reduced cost.
Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Kovalam. 2. In Kovalam; test bikes; ride to Chowra village. 3. Ride to Kanyakumari. 4. Ride to Rameshwaram. 5. In Rameshwaram. 6. Ride to Madurai. 7. In Madurai; guided tour. 8. Ride to Thanjavur. 9. Ride to Velankanni. 10. Ride to Trancobar. 11. Ride to Pondicherry. 12. Ride to Mamallapuram. 13. In Mamallapuram. 14. In Mamallapuram; drive to Chennai. 15. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 14 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels; sightseeing and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout the tour; back-up vehicle support. Single room option – single rooms are available at all night stops. Included meals – 14 breakfasts.
Tour ref : MSI FROM
£2,395
Tour Summary This tour offers two contrasting sides of India, past and present. We see the Taj Mahal at Agra, overnight in a palace hotel, and look for tiger at Sariska. Then we move to the noise and the glamour of the India of today as, in complete contrast, our tour finishes with time at the Indian Grand Prix. Tour Highlights Delhi – half-day guided tours of Delhi. Agra – guided visit to Taj Mahal and Red Fort. Fatehpur Sikri – guided tour. Bharatpur – game viewing. Karauli – guided tour; overnight at Heritage Hotel. Jaipur – city tour; visit Amber Fort. Sariska – looking for tiger. Buddh International Circuit – qualifying and race day. Outline itinerary 1. In Delhi; tour Old Delhi. 2. Tour New Delhi; train to Agra. 3. In Agra; visit Taj Mahal and Fort; drive via Fatehpur Sikri to Bharatpur. 4. At Bharatpur; game viewing; drive to Karauli village.
5. Drive to Jaipur; city tour. 6. Visit Amber Fort; drive to Sariska; game viewing. 7. At Sariska; game viewing; drive to Delhi. 8. In Delhi; qualifying session. 9. In Delhi; Indian Grand Prix. 10. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 8 nights’ accommodation in standard mid-range hotels; 1 night at a Heritage Hotel; AC Chair class train; transfers to the F1 circuit, with basic entry ticket; other sightseeing and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout your journey. Indian Grand Prix – we include basic admission to the circuit on qualifying and race days, but not grandstand tickets, as seating preferences can vary. Grandstand tickets are available from UK ticket agencies, or from our office. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 9 breakfasts and 3 dinners.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 46-47_TI_MOTOR_SBv7.indd 47
Tour ref: MGP FROM
£895 47 10/7/13 13:57:23
Golf Adventures
Taj and Tees 9 day tour – a taste of history with time on the fairways
Golf Adventures The British gave India the hill station, the railways and much else; they also brought golf. The game has been taken up by modern India and courses can be found throughout the country, often tantalisingly close to historical sites. The cost of each round is included in the price of our golf tours, but buggies and caddies are not, as requirements may vary. The sequence of golf rounds and sightseeing may vary from that described, to fit in with our tee-off times. We can bring our clubs, or there is the possibility to hire clubs at each course (except at Agra on the GTT tour). Of course, if you are travelling with a partner or friend who does not play golf, they will travel at a discounted rate, and in India there are plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and browsing in the bazaars while you take to the fairways.
48 48-49_TI_GOLF_SBv6.indd 48
Tour Summary Experience an unforgettable golf tour with a difference. We visit the world of the Mughal rulers who left us the incomparable Taj Mahal. But woven into our tour are five rounds of golf, set on courses located in some of India’s most celebrated cities – Delhi, Jaipur and Agra. You will play on courses that have been designed by legendary professionals Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman; on a course right in the heart of Delhi; one in Jaipur built for a Maharani; and even on one course adjacent to the incomparable Taj Mahal. Please note that the course at Agra does not rent out clubs so this course would have to be omitted if you’re renting clubs. tour Highlights Delhi – guided tours exploring Old and New Delhi. Golf – 5 rounds of golf in Delhi, Jaipur and Agra. Jaipur – city tour and visit to the Amber Fort. Fatehpur Sikri – guided tour.
Agra – guided tour of the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; tour of Old Delhi. 2. In Delhi; play golf; tour of New Delhi. 3. In Delhi; play golf; drive to Jaipur. 4. In Jaipur; play golf; tour of Jaipur. 5. Visit Amber Fort; drive to Bharatpur; game viewing. 6. At Bharatpur; game viewing; drive via Fatehpur Sikri to Agra; visit the incomparable Taj Mahal. 7. In Agra; play golf; visit Red Fort; drive to Noida. 8. In Noida; play golf; drive to Delhi. 9. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 7 nights’ accommodation in mid-range hotels; 1 night in a golf resort hotel; 5 rounds of golf; other sightseeing and transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India Tour Leader throughout your journey in India. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 8 breakfasts.
Tour ref: GTT FROM
£995
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 13:59:54
Golf Adventures
Golf in the Vale of Kashmir
Golf and Houseboats in Kashmir
9 day tour – play all four courses in the state
6 day tour – an interesting extension to your India tour
Tour summary We play four contrasting golf courses that lie amid the stunning mountain scenery of the Vale of Kashmir, while staying overnight on one of the houseboats on Dal Lake. One is a links course, said to be the highest green golf course in the world; one is the longest course in India, ringed by snow-clad mountains; one is a local course in Srinagar itself; and one has been described as one of the best courses in India. We will play every course in Kashmir. For a non-playing partner or friend, there is shopping in the bazaars of Srinagar and days spent lazing on the veranda of our houseboat. Tour Highlights Pahalgam Golf Course – longest in India. Kashmir Golf Club – second oldest outside the UK. Srinagar – tour of the city. Gulmarg Golf Course – highest green golf course in the world. Royal Springs Golf Course – regarded as one of the best in India. Houseboats – a deluxe houseboat at Dal Lake.
Dal Lake – take a traditional wooden Shikara boat ride. Outline itinerary 1. Arrive Delhi; tour of Old Delhi. 2. In Delhi; tour of New Delhi; fly to Srinagar. 3. Drive to Pahalgam; play a round at Pahalgam Golf Club. 4. In Srinagar; play Kashmir Golf Club. 5. In Srinagar; city tour; shikara ride on Dal Lake. 6. Drive Gulmarg; play Gulmarg Golf Club. 7. In Srinagar; play Royal Springs Golf Club. 8. Fly to Delhi. 9. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 6 nights’ accommodation on houseboat; 2 nights in a mid-range hotel; 4 rounds of golf; flights Delhi/Srinagar/Delhi; sightseeing and other transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India representative in Srinagar. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 8 breakfasts and 6 dinners.
Tour ref: GVK FROM
£995
Tour summary This 6-day extension can be added to any Totally India tour, for example starting on day 9 of a 9-day tour and ending on what becomes day 14 of your holiday. We fly up to Srinagar and play all four courses in the Vale of Kashmir, staying overnight on a houseboat on Dal Lake. This extension can be added to any of our India tours on a date of your choice; please, however, note the opening periods for each course listed below. Simply notify us of your extension dates and, subject to availability, we will confirm your tour extension. Tour Highlights Play Pahalgam Golf Course – longest course in India. Play Gulmarg Golf Course – highest greens golf course in the world. Play Royal Springs – considered one of the best courses in India. Play Kashmir Golf Club – second oldest course outside the UK. Srinagar – guided tour. Houseboat – a deluxe standard houseboat experience. Dal Lake – Shikara ride.
Outline itinerary 1. Fly Delhi/Srinagar, on the day your India tour ends. 2. Play Pahalgam Golf Club (open 01 April to 30 November). 3. Play Gulmarg Golf Club (open Aug, Sept and Oct); city tour of Srinagar. 4. Play Kashmir Golf Club (open 01 April to 30 October); traditional shikara ride on Dal Lake. 5. Play Royal Springs Golf Club (which should be open all year unless snowed in); fly Srinagar/Delhi. 6. Tour ends. What’s included in the Itinerary? 4 nights’ houseboat accommodation in Srinagar;1 night in a mid-range hotel; 4 rounds of golf; flights Delhi/Srinagar/ Delhi (not included – additional flight cost to Delhi from your initial tour’s end point); sightseeing and other transport as detailed in itinerary; services of a Totally India representative in Srinagar. Single room option – available at all night stops. Included meals – 5 breakfasts and 5 dinners.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 48-49_TI_GOLF_SBv6.indd 49
Tour ref: GXK FROM
£895 49 10/7/13 14:00:44
Festival Adventures
Festival Adventures India, more than most countries, is a country of festivals. And there’s one thing that most Indian festivals have in common: they’re a riot of bright colours and ornate costumes. They are also, for the visitor, a chance to see communities celebrating and customs being continued. At some festivals we can only observe; at others we can join in. But with all India’s festivals the chance to be there as part of your tour adds an extra dimension to your trip and offers a closer understanding of India and her people. A number of our tours are planned to allow us to visit an Indian festival during our journey. While some tours simply include a day at a festival as part of the tour, other tours are specially designed to fit around festival dates. Please see www.totallyindia.net for details of festival tour dates.
Holi
Diwali
Celebrated all over India, on the day after the full moon in the Hindu month of Phalguna, Holi is the most colourful and iconic of India’s festivals. In its modern form it is a communal celebration of the end of winter and the coming of summer. The idea is very simple: everyone throws a mixture of coloured dyes and water over anyone nearby; rather like paintball but without the guns. If you want to avoid the action then stay indoors; if you want to join in then wear old clothes, hit the streets and get splattered. If your Totally India tour is in India on Monday 17 March 2014 then you will also get the opportunity to experience the exuberance and the colours of Holi that day. And if you want an idea of the end result of Holi – see our front cover!
Diwali is celebrated all over India, the date varying each year as it is defined according to the position of the moon. Although Diwali is a 5-day festival, the third day is regarded as the main day – now known as the festival of light. All over India the theme is of the triumph of good – represented by light – over evil. These days, Diwali is all about family and friends; oil lamps, candles and, nowadays, electric lights are lit in the family home; presents are exchanged with everybody; the family perform puja in the evening and lots of crackers and fireworks add evening colour to a spectacular day. In 2013 Diwali falls on Sunday 03 November, and in 2014 on Thursday 23 October, so if your Totally India tour is in India at that time you will get to experience the amazing celebrations firsthand.
The festival of colour
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The festival of light
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 14:14:16
Festival Adventures
Festivals in Bhutan The tiny mountain kingdom of Bhutan has a number of colourful religious festivals every year. Tsechu (meaning ‘tenth day’) festivals are Bhutanese festivals held annually in monasteries across the country. The tsechu is a religious event, notable for the mask dances usually performed by the monks of the monastery. They are social gatherings; entire communities attend to watch the mask dances, receive blessings from lamas, watch Bhutanese dances and other entertainment, and socialise. Two of the most popular festivals are those at Thimpu and at Paro. In all we include visits to four festivals as part of our Bhutan programme each year. All four festivals are visited by a specific departure of our Journey to the Himalayan Kingdoms tour; for dates and itinerary details of these four tours please visit www.totallyindia.net/festivals.
Thimphu Drupchen Festival, Thimphu
Thimphu Drupchen (or Drubchen) is performed at the Tashichho dzong in Thimpu. The sacred masked dance performed here is performed to appease the deity who protects Bhutan, Pelden Lhamo. The Thimphu Drupchen is a 5-day event, preceding the popular 3 day Thimphu Tsechu. Because it is mainly to appease the protecting deities, it is considered more sacred and was not open for tourists until recently. Photography may be prohibited during the Drupchen.
Thimphu Tshechu Festival, Thimphu The 3 day Thimphu Tsechu is held outside the courtyard of Tashichho dzong, following the Thimpu Drupchen festival.
Paro Festival, Paro
Paro Tsechu, like other tsechus, is held in honour of Guru Rinpoche. The tsechu at Paro is held from the 11th day until the 15th day of the 2nd month in the Bhutanese calendar, which falls at the end of March or April. The first day of the festival is held in the courtyard of the dzong, and before dawn on the final day a large thangka (scroll painting) of Guru Rinpoche is displayed.
Punakha Festival, Punakha
Punakha festival features masked dances, and the events are different on each day. This is a 5 day festival dedicated to the goddess Mahakala.
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Festival Adventures
Festivals in Rajasthan Rajasthan, often described as the most colourful of the states of India, is home to several notable festivals. Our tours visit three of them; for dates and itinerary details of these tours please visit www.totallyindia.net/festivals.
Camel Festival, Pushkar Jaisalmer Festival Every year in November the small town of Pushkar plays host to some 300,000 people and over 20,000 camels over the five days of the Pushkar Camel Fair. One of the last of the great traditional melas, the event doesn’t just attract camel owners, farmers, traders and villagers – and their camels, cattle and horses – but also revellers looking to watch the camel judging and compete in fun games such as ‘the longest moustache’, while devotees take a dip in the holy Sarovar lake; a riot of sights and sounds. Festival departures of our Rajasthan Desert Safari (page 9) and Discovering the Footsteps of the Mughals (page 16) tours visit the festival each year.
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The Jaisalmer Festival takes place outside Jaisalmer, at the Sam sand dunes. This 3-day event takes place early every year and offers a mixture of the traditional and the modern. Traditional events such as the camel races and performances by Rajasthani folk singers and dancers happen alongside more recent additions such as the competition for the best moustache. The Jaisalmer festival is not so much a religious festival, compared with many that our tours visit, but more a celebration of all things Rajasthani, and there’s a lot to see. A festival departure of our Rajasthan Desert Safari visits this festival each year.
Gangaur Festival, Jaipur A Gangaur festival is held annually in many towns across Rajasthan, in honour of Gauri, the Goddess of Abundance. It is primarily a festival for women; at this time young girls pray for a spouse and married women pray for the health of their husbands. On the day of the festival bejewelled images of Gauri are paraded through the streets, and women are dressed in their finest clothes for the occasion. In Jaipur the procession begins at the City Palace and winds its way through several bazaars before ending near the Talkatora. A festival departure of our In the Footsteps of the Mughals tour visits this festival every year.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 14:16:11
Festival Adventures
Festival in Bihar Sonepur Mela, Sonepur, Bihar
The cattle fair held at Sonepur, in Northern Bihar on the banks of the River Ganges, is one of Asia’s largest cattle fairs. It is held around the full moon day of the month of Kartik (November) and lasts for two weeks. It has its origins in the time when Chandragupta Maurya used to buy elephants and horses here. Nowadays a bath here at the confluence of the Ganges and the Gandak, and a visit to the Hariharnath temple, is the aim for thousands of devotees. The sprawling mela ground, with its lively market, has the widest possible range of cattle and commodities. The Sonepur Fair is also the only one where a large number of elephants are sold, purchased mainly by forest departments and the logging industry. Apart from elephants, a large number of cattle and horses are also brought to the fair for sale. Various folk shows, games and jugglers make up a sideshow to the main event. A festival departure of one of our Bengal to Punjab by Rail tours (page 34) visits the Sonepur Mela every year.
Festival in Kerala Snakeboat Festival, Kerala
A snakeboat – or chundan vallam – is a traditional vessel, usually around 35m long and crewed by about 100 rowers. Every year, the Keralan villages race each other on the local rivers and lakes, a tradition which goes back some 400 years. Of the four main races each year, arguably the most famous is the Nehru Trophy Race – named after the late Prime Minister of India (and race fan) Jawalal Nehru – held on the second Saturday of August, on Punnmada Lake. Race day starts with a float parade, after which the racing gets under way and continues until late. Each year two of our August tours visit the snakeboat race. Our 9-day tour Discovering Kerala (page 13) and our 9-day family tour, Family Kerala (page 32) both have departures timed to visit the Snakeboat Festival. For dates and itinerary details of these tours please visit our website www.totallyindia.net/festivals.
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Festival Adventures
Festivals in Ladakh Ladakh is a land where Buddhism holds sway; indeed the area is sometimes referred to as ‘Little Tibet’. And every year at many of the gompas, or monasteries, that cling to the hillsides in this barren land, festivals are held. Our tours visit four of these festivals; for more information about dates and itinerary details of these tours please visit www.totallyindia.net/festivals.
Hemis Festival, Ladakh
Hemis Gompa, the largest and richest in Ladakh, lies about 45km from Leh. In June every year it holds perhaps the best-known festival in Ladakh, held in the rectangular courtyard in front of the main door to the Gompa. The courtyard is empty apart from two raised platforms on which are placed the ceremonial items needed for the day’s ceremonies. Throughout the day colourful costumes and bright brocades, together with papier mache masks, dominate the courtyard as the mask dances are performed and the drums, cymbals and longs are much in evidence. Hemis is a riot of colour and sound and extremely photogenic. A festival departure of one of our Journey to Little Tibet tours (page 12) and one of our Kashmir Ladakh Adventure tours (page 23) visit this festival every year.
Phyang Festival, Ladakh Takthok Festival, Ladakh Like many other festivals in Ladakh, the Phyang Tsedup Festival celebrates the triumph of good over evil. Held at the Phyang Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh, the event includes sacred mask dances, monks and revelry. During the Phyang Tsedup Festival, monks dressed in colourful robes, perform a dance drama called chhams and worship the thankha of Jigten Gombo. At the beginning of the festival, prayers are held and devotees visit the monastery to pay their respects to Skyabje Jigten Gombo. One of the most important festivals for Buddhists, the two-day festival also has an exhibition where various Buddhist artifacts are displayed and offered for sale. A festival departure of one of our Journey to Little Tibet tours visits this festival every year.
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Takthok Monastery lies around 43km east of Leh, in the village of Sakti. The monastery belongs to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism; approximately 55 lamas reside there. The only Nyingma monastery in Ladakh, the monastery was founded around the mid-16th century. Taking place every year on the 9th and 10th day of the sixth month of the Tibetan calendar, celebrations of the festival include sacred dances. A festival departure of one of our Journey to Little Tibet tours and one of our Kashmir Ladakh Adventure tours visit this festival every year.
Ladakh Festival, Leh
The Ladakh festival, held every year in Leh, Ladakh’s capital, is not a religious festival so much as a communal celebration.
The main aim is to highlight Ladakh’s culture, heritage and traditions, and the festival provides an opportunity, over a period of a week, to experience the culture and lifestyle of the people of Ladakh. The festival starts with an inauguration ceremony in Leh, with a spectacular procession of various cultural troupes, local leaders, school children and dancers making their way through Leh in ceremonial costumes, performing while singing and dancing to traditional tunes. The procession finishes at the Polo Ground with various folk dances. During the rest of the week, costume dances, mask dances, craft stalls, local cuisines and drinks, musical concerts, archery contests, polo matches and thanka exhibitions take place. A festival departure of one of our Journey to Little Tibet tours and one of our Kashmir Ladakh Adventure tours visit this festival every year.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net 10/7/13 14:18:06
Festival Adventures
The Khajuraho Dance Festival The Khajuraho Dance Festival is held in an open-air auditorium by the Chitragupta Temple. Traditional dance events take place 20-26 February every year, each evening from 7pm onwards amongst the Western Group of temples, which is the largest, best maintained and most easily accessible temple group at Khajuraho. This week-long festival has become legendary with its classical dance performances presented in the dreamlike setting of splendidly illuminated temples. Some of the best artists and performers from many differing fields come from the various states of India to participate in the festival. The performances include some of the best-known
dance styles such as the intricate footwork of Kathak, the highly stylised and sophisticated Bharathanatyam, the soft lyrical temple dance of Odissi, the dance dramas of Kuchipudi and Kathakali stage fights with elaborate masks. Recently, modern Indian dance has been a feature of the festival. As well as the dance performances there are also craftsmen selling their work to visitors. A festival departure of one of our Overland from Delhi to Nepal tours (page 10) visits the Khajuraho Festival every year. For dates and itinerary details of these tours please visit our website www.totallyindia.net/festivals.
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Essential Information
Essential information
before you book
What do I need to know?
What do I need to be aware of once I have decided to travel? At the time of booking you will be asked if you have read and understood the information below as well as the booking conditions. Please take time to read this information. The tour duration for land only tours is always calculated from the first day of the tour until the final day when the tour finishes. You meet your tour leader on arrival at the first hotel.
Flights
The land only tour does not include any international flights or transfers between your destination airport and the hotel. Dates of operation and itineraries can change and it is important that you can change your connecting travel arrangements if necessary. Flights to coincide with your tour may be booked through your booking agent.
The single traveller will find our
tours ideal. Whether travelling as a couple, with friends or travelling alone, accommodation is not a problem. We do not charge a mandatory single supplement. Many of our clients are flying solo, so if you book as an individual, we will room you in a twin room with a fellow traveller of the same sex. However if you do require a single room, these are often available but will incur an additional cost.
The items included and excluded in your tour are detailed in the notes for each tour. Tips for personal service are not included and it is worth noting that in some countries these are a way of life and very much expected. Your tour leader will give guidance about this.
The meal arrangements on your tour are intended to offer you flexibility so you can eat where and when you prefer. Breakfast is included most days in the price of the tour, but check each itinerary for other meals which may be included. This allows you to sample the cuisine of the country as you wish. While dietary preferences can sometimes be catered for, we do ask travellers to understand that in the countries featured in this brochure there is a limited choice of foods available and a limited understanding of some dietary requirements.
The size of our groups is not large
The prices shown on any of the
Costs and Fees
– between 10 and 16 participants (the average group size is about 12).
The accommodation
Most of our tours are based around the use of modest hotels of a three star standard, but do check the tour notes for more detailed information, as some tours are designed around staying at palaces. Our criteria are that the accommodation should be clean, safe and comfortable.
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Your accommodation should be a good base from which to spend your time exploring the local area.
brochures are guide prices only. They represent the cost of travel at the date the brochure went to print. The selling price at the time you book your holiday could be different to that shown in the brochure.
The nature of some of our tours
means that conditions on tour may be different from those you are used to at home. Service standards,
operating conditions, unusual events and infrastructural inadequacies are sometimes such that a sense of humour can be useful. If you expect everything to run like clockwork, irrespective of which country you are in then you may be advised not to book on some of our tours.
Government advice
might stop you, or anyone you are booking on behalf of, travelling with us needs to be declared to your insurer (see Insurance on page 6). You should then get written confirmation from the insurer that the condition is covered. If you do not do this your cover may be invalid and we will not be able to allow you to travel (even if you have arrived in the destination country).
Your government travel advisory department may sometimes be a key component in your decision whether or not to travel. Politics, including terrorism, can affect the advisability of visiting some countries, as can the current security or crime situation. Before booking on any tour you should always consult either the FCO Travel Advice Unit website at www. gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice in the UK or The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website at www.smarttraveller. gov.au in Australia. Other nationalities should consult the relevant Embassy or Consulate before making any decision to book. Our tours are governed by the FCO travel advice that is always either ‘Prescriptive’ (in which case we would cancel or re-route your tour) or ‘Advisory’.
Passport requirements
Climate
Any pre-existing condition that
You must hold a valid passport to visit the countries featured in this brochure, and your passport must have at least two blank pages for your visa (see Visas information on page 6), and be valid for at least six months from your date of entry.
Given the size of India it is not surprising that there are considerable variations in climate throughout the subcontinent. In general April to September is hot whereas cooler temperatures prevail from November through to February. Below is an outline of the different seasons in India:
Name of the Season
Winter
Summer. The summer is also known as the pre-monsoon season. Monsoon or rainy season Post-monsoon period
Features
In India the winter period is from December until early April, December and January being the coldest months. April to June is regarded as summer, except in the northwest where summer refers to the months of April to July. The monsoon, sometimes just referred to as the rainy season, lasts from June to September each year. October to December is regarded as the post-monsoon season. In the northwest October and November usually have much brighter weather.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
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Essential Information
Booking Conditions Please make time to read these Booking Conditions before booking your tour. For further information on the tours, maps and pricing pleases refer to our website: www.totallyindia.net.
Period before departure within which written notification is received by us.
FOR YOUR PROTECTION & PEACE OF MIND
Over 56 days Deposit 55 to 42 days 30% 41 to 28 days 60% 27 to 14 days 90% Less than 14 days 100% No refund will be made after tour commences.
1. Making a booking and Payment.
Depending on the reason for cancellation, you may be able to reclaim these cancellation charges (less any applicable excess) under the terms of your insurance policy. Claims must be made directly to the insurance company concerned.
Totally India is a trading name of The Tailor-made Groups Company Limited and holds an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority, which requires a full financial bond for all customers’ monies held. ATOL LICENCE NO 9349.
In order to make a booking you must pay a deposit of £100 per person. The first named person on the booking (‘lead name’) must be authorised to make the booking on the basis of these booking conditions by all persons named on the booking. By making a booking, the lead name confirms that he/she is so authorised. The lead name is responsible for making all payments due to us. If your chosen arrangements are available we will then confirm your booking by issuing a confirmation invoice that will be sent to that person. Contact us immediately if any information that appears on the confirmation or any other document appears to be incorrect or incomplete as it may not be possible to make changes later. In order to confirm your chosen tour you must pay the deposit as advised in our tour brochure or on our website (or full payment if booking within 10 weeks of departure) at the time of booking. The balance of the tour cost must be received by us not less than 10 weeks prior to departure. If we do not receive all payments due (including any surcharge where applicable) in full and on time, we are entitled to assume you wish to cancel your booking. In this case, we will be entitled to keep all deposits paid or due at that date.
2. Contract.
A binding contract between us comes into existence when we despatch our confirmation invoice. We both agree that English law (and no other) will apply to your contract and to any dispute, claim or other matter of any description that arises between us (‘claim’) except as set out below. We both also agree that any claim must be dealt with by the Courts of England and Wales.
3. If you change your booking.
Occasionally you may find it necessary to alter your booking. We will endeavour to assist but changes are not always possible. You will also be liable to pay any costs incurred by ourselves or our suppliers.
4. Cancellation by you.
Should you or any member of your party need to cancel your booking once it has been confirmed, the lead person must immediately advise us in writing. Your notice of cancellation will only be effective when it is received in writing by us at our offices. As we incur costs from the time we confirm your booking, the following cancellation charges will be payable. Where the cancellation charge is shown as a percentage, this is calculated on the basis of the total cost payable by the person(s) cancelling excluding amendment charges. Amendment charges are not refundable in the event of cancellation.
Cancellation charge per person cancelling
5. Changes and Cancellation by us.
We start planning the holidays we offer many months in advance. Occasionally, we have to make changes to and correct errors in brochures and other details both before and after bookings have been confirmed and cancel confirmed bookings. While we always endeavour to avoid changes and cancellations, we must reserve the right to do so. Please note that our holidays require a minimum number of participants to enable us to operate them. If the minimum number of bookings required for a particular holiday has not been received, we are entitled to cancel it. We will notify you of cancellation for this reason at least four weeks before departure. Most changes are minor. Occasionally, we have to make a “significant change”. A significant change is a change made before departure that, taking account of the information you give us at the time of booking and that we can reasonably be expected to know as a tour operator, we can reasonably expect to have a major effect on your holiday. Significant changes are likely to include the following changes when made before departure; a change of accommodation to that of a lower official classification or standard for the whole or a major part of the time you are away, a change of accommodation area for the whole or a major part of the time you are away, a change of outward departure time of 12 or more hours, a change of UK departure point to one that is more inconvenient for you (although please note a change from Heathrow to Gatwick/Stansted/Luton or London City or vice versa is not classified as a significant change) and, in the case of multicentre tours, a significant change of itinerary missing out one or more major destinations substantially or altogether. If we have to make a significant change or cancel, we will tell you as soon as possible. If there is time to do so before departure, we will offer you the choice of the following options:- (for significant changes) accepting the changed arrangements or purchasing an alternative holiday from us, of a similar standard to that originally booked if available. If the alternative holiday is of equivalent or higher standard you will not be asked to pay any more than the price of the original holiday. If this holiday is in fact cheaper than the original one, we will refund the price difference. If you do not wish to accept the holiday we specifically offer you, you may choose any of our other then available holidays. You must pay the applicable price of any such holiday. This will mean your paying more if it is more expensive or receiving a refund if it is cheaper or cancelling or accepting the cancellation, in which case you will receive a full and quick refund of all monies you have paid to us. Please note, the above options are not available where any change made is a minor one. If we have to make a significant change or cancel we will as a minimum, where compensation is appropriate, pay you the
compensation payments set out in the table below depending on the circumstances and when the significant change or cancellation is notified to you subject to the following exceptions. Compensation will not be payable and no liability beyond offering the above mentioned choices can be accepted where (1) we are forced to make a change or cancel as a result of unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which we could not have avoided even with all due care or (2) we have to cancel because the minimum number of bookings necessary for us to operate your holiday has not been reached (see above). No compensation will be payable and the above options will not be available if we cancel as a result of your failure to comply with any requirement of these booking conditions entitling us to cancel (such as paying on time) or where a change is a minor one. Period before departure a significant change
56 days or more 56 to 14 days Less than 14 days
nil £15 £30
Very rarely, we may be forced by “force majeure” to change or terminate your holiday after departure but before the scheduled end of your time away. This is extremely unlikely but if this situation does occur, we regret we will be unable to make any refunds (unless we obtain any refunds from our suppliers), pay you any compensation or meet any costs or expenses you incur as a result
6. Your tour cost.
All Tour Prices are quoted on the basis of two persons to a room/cabin. Single room/cabin accommodation is limited and may not always be available and carries a supplement. Room sharing: if you are travelling alone but wish to share, we shall endeavour to find a suitable travelling companion Please note, changes and errors occasionally occur. You must check the price of your chosen tour at the time of booking. The prices shown in our brochure were calculated on the 14th June 2013 using the exchange rates of £1 = INR Rs 90.25 (Financial Times). We reserve the right to make changes to and correct errors in advertised prices at any time before your tour is confirmed. We will advise you of any error that we are aware of and apply the applicable price at the time of booking. The Company reserves the right to levy a surcharge in the event of any material variation in such costs and rates such as transportation costs and fuel; dues, taxes or fees or exchange rates applied to particular purchases. Even in such cases, we will absorb an amount equivalent to 2% of the tour price (excluding government taxes, and any fuel surcharges and amendment charges). Only amounts in excess of this 2% will be surcharged. If this means paying more than 10% on the tour price you will be entitled to cancel the tour with a full refund of all monies paid. Should you decide to cancel because of this, you must do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on the surcharge invoice. Since we have to absorb increased costs equivalent to 2% of the tour price, there will be no reduction in the price of the tour in the event of a favourable variation in costs or exchange rates. Prices will not be increased within 20 days of departure. Please note that arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your tour due to contractual and other protection in place. We promise not to levy a surcharge within 20 days of departure. No refund will be payable during this period either.
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Compensation change or cancellation is notified to you per person
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Essential Information 7. Force Majeure.
Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions, we regret we cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance or prompt performance of our obligations under our contract with you is prevented or affected by or you otherwise suffer any damage, loss or expense of any nature as a result of “force majeure”. In these booking conditions, “force majeure” means any event that we or the supplier of the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include, whether actual or threatened, war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events outside our control.
8. Our liability to you.
(a) We promise to make sure that the tour arrangements we have agreed to make, perform or provide as applicable as part of our contract with you are made, performed or provided with reasonable skill and care. This means that, subject to these booking conditions, we will accept responsibility if, for example, you suffer death or personal injury or your contracted tour arrangements are not provided as promised or prove deficient as a result of the failure of ourselves, our employees, agents or suppliers to use reasonable skill and care in making, performing or providing, as applicable, your contracted tour arrangements. Please note, it is your responsibility to show that reasonable skill and care has not been used if you wish to make a claim against us. In addition, we will only be responsible for what our employees, agents and suppliers do or do not do if they were at the time acting within the course of their employment (for employees) or carrying out work we had asked them to do (for agents and suppliers). (b) We will not be responsible for any injury, illness, death, loss (including loss of enjoyment or possessions), damage, expense, cost or other sum or claim of any description whatsoever which results from any of the following: – the act(s) and/or omission(s) of the person(s) affected or any member(s) of their party or – the act(s) and/or omission(s) of a third party not connected with the provision of your tour and that were unforeseeable or unavoidable or – ‘force majeure’ as defined above (c) Please note that we cannot accept responsibility for any services that do not form part of our contract. This includes, for example, any additional services or facilities that your hotel or any other supplier agrees to provide for you where the services or facilities are not advertised by us and we have not agreed to arrange them as part of our contract. In addition, regardless of any wording used by us on our website, in any advertising material or elsewhere, we only promise to use reasonable skill and care as set out above and we do not have any greater or different liability to you. . (d) The promises we make to you about the services we have agreed to provide or arrange as part of our contract – and the laws and regulations of the country in that your claim or properly provided. If the particular services that gave rise to the claim or complaint complied with local laws and regulations applicable to those services at the time, the services will be treated as having been properly provided in the UK. The exception to this is where the claim or complaint concerns the absence of a safety feature that might lead a reasonable tour maker to refuse to take the tour in question. Please note, however, our obligation is to exercise reasonable skill and care as referred to in clause 8(a). We do not make any representation or commitment that all services will comply with applicable local laws and regulations and failure to comply does not automatically mean we have not exercised reasonable skill and care. (e) Where we are found liable for loss of and/or damage to any luggage or personal possessions (including money), the maximum amount we will have to pay you is £500.00 per
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person affected unless another limitation applies to your claim under this clause or clause 8(f)below. You must ensure you have appropriate travel insurance to protect your personal belongings. For all other claims that do not involve death or personal injury, if we are found liable to you on any basis the maximum amount we will have to pay you is twice the price (excluding amendment charges) paid by or on behalf of the person(s) affected in total unless a lower limitation applies to your claim under clause 8(f) below. This maximum amount will only be payable where everything has gone wrong and you have not received any benefit at all from your tour. (f) Where any claim or part of a claim (including those involving death or personal injury) concerns or is based on any travel arrangements (including the process of getting on and/or off the transport concerned) provided by any air, sea or rail carrier to which any international convention or EU regulation applies, the maximum amount of compensation we will have to pay you will be limited. The most we will have to pay you for that claim or that part of a claim if we are found liable to you on any basis is the most the carrier concerned would have to pay under the international convention or regulation that applies to the travel arrangements in question (for example, the Warsaw Convention as amended or unamended and the Montreal Convention for international travel by air and/or for airlines with an operating licence granted by an EU country, the EC Regulation on Air Carrier Liability No 889/2002 for national and international travel by air, the Athens Convention for international travel by sea (as amended by the 2002 Protocol with effect from 31st December 2012) and COTIF, the Convention on International Travel by Rail). Please note: where a carrier would not be obliged to make any payment to you under the applicable international convention or regulation in respect of a claim or part of a claim, we similarly are not obliged to make a payment to you for that claim or part of the claim. When making any payment, we are entitled to deduct any money that you have received or are entitled to receive from the carrier for the complaint or claim in question. Copies of the applicable international conventions and regulations are available from us on request. (g) Please note, we cannot accept any liability for any damage, loss, expense or other sum(s) of any description (1) which on the basis of the information given to us by you concerning your booking prior to our accepting it, we could not have foreseen you would suffer or incur if we breached our contract with you or (2) which did not result from any breach of contract or other fault by ourselves or our employees or, where we are responsible for them, our suppliers. Additionally we cannot accept liability for any business losses.
9. Insurance.
We consider adequate travel insurance to be essential - Travel insurance cover is a condition of travel and is compulsory. All our clients must have adequate travel insurance including the cost of repatriation in the event of serious accident or illness. You must give us details in writing of your policy (insurer, policy number and emergency contact details shown on policy).
10. If you have a complaint.
We know that, in spite of everything, problems can arise. If you have a complaint you must notify our local representative who may be able to assist you. Most problems can be sorted out immediately and it is essential that you give us the opportunity to help you by letting us or the supplier concerned know as soon as you have a compliant. If you feel that a compliant has not been dealt with satisfactorily, please write to us within 14 days of your return to the United Kingdom and we will acknowledge and investigate your complaint. Please bear in mind that some of the destinations offered are still in the development stages with regards to what can be offered to tourists and this should be borne in mind before choosing to travel there. We would ask that you consult us if in any doubt of the suitability of the trip for you.
11. Conditions of suppliers.
Many of the services that make up your tour are provided by independent suppliers. Those suppliers provide these services in accordance with their own terms and conditions. Some of these terms and conditions may limit or exclude the supplier’s liability to you, usually in accordance with applicable international conventions (see clause 8(f). Copies of the relevant parts of these terms and conditions and of the international conventions are available on request from ourselves or the supplier concerned.
12. Passports and visas.
All UK Nationals require a full valid passport (valid for at least six months after your planned return), which is required for all tours featured. It is important that the first name and surname on the air ticket matches those on the passport, otherwise the passenger may not be able to travel and any applicable insurance will be ineffective. It is the responsibility of the traveller to obtain all the necessary visas for their chosen holiday, however The Tailor-Made Groups Company can assist you by recommending a visa company.
OTHER NATIONALS
If you hold a passport other than a UK passport, contact a visa company for advice on whether you require a visa or not. Other nationals should ensure they comply with formalities. The Tailor-Made Groups Company Ltd cannot be held responsible should a client not comply with passport or visa requirements.
13. Health and Fitness
It is your responsibility to ensure you are aware of all recommended vaccinations and health precautions in good time before departure. Details are available from your GP surgery and from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (www.nathnac.org). Information on health is contained in the Department of Health leaflet T7 (Health Advice for Travellers) available from the Department of Health by telephone on 0870 1555455 or via its website (www.dh.gov. uk) and from most Post Offices. Health requirements and recommendations may change and you must check the up to date position in good time before departure. Fitness: Most of our tours involve walking on most days around sites. If you are fit and healthy and enjoy being part of a group of like-minded people, your age should not be a barrier to joining a tour. We do however ask travellers over the age of 70 to obtain a medical certificate from their Doctor stating that they are fit to travel.
14. Foreign Office Advice.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office publishes regularly updated travel information on its website www.fco.gov.uk/ knowbeforeyougo, which you are recommended to consult before booking and in good time before departure.
15. Financial Protection.
We hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 9349). When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive tour from us, you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists the flight, accommodation, car hire and/or other services that are financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims that you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable). You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme.” For further information visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk. Not all holiday or travel services offered
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Essential Information and sold by us will be protected by the ATOL Scheme. In compliance with the UK Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 an insurance policy has been arranged with Travel & General Insurance Company plc, authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority, to protect customers’ prepayments in the unlikely event of our financial failure and paid in respect of: non-flight inclusive packages commencing and returning to the UK; the ground handling aspects of packages where the customer is responsible for arranging travel to the destination offered in this brochure/literature/document/website (subject to the terms of the insurance policy), for: a refund of such prepayments if customers have not yet travelled, or making arrangements to enable the holiday to continue if customers have already travelled. Customers’ prepayments are protected by a topp policy. In the unlikely event of financial failure please contact the claims helpline on 0870 0137 965. A copy of the policy is available on request.
16. Flights.
In accordance with EU Regulation No 2111/2005, we are required to bring to your attention the existence of a “Community list” that contains details of air carriers who are subject to an operating ban within the EU. The Community list is available for inspection at http://ec.europa.eu/ transport/air-ban/list_en.htm. We are also required to advise you of the actual carrier(s) (or, if the actual carrier(s) is not known, the likely carrier(s)) that will operate your flight(s) at the time of booking. Where we are only able to inform you of the likely carrier(s) at the time of booking, we will inform you of the identity of the actual carrier(s) as soon as we become aware of this. Any change to the operating carrier(s) after your booking has been confirmed will be notified to you as soon as possible. If the carrier with whom you have a confirmed reservation becomes subject to an operating ban as above as a result of which we/ the carrier are unable to offer you a suitable alternative, the provisions of clause “Changes and cancellation by us” will apply. We are not always in a position at the time of booking to confirm the flight timings that will be used in connection with your flight. The flight timings shown in our brochure, on our website and/or detailed on your confirmation invoice are for guidance only and are subject to alteration and confirmation. Flight timings are outside our control. They are set by airlines and are subject to various factors including air traffic control restrictions, weather, potential technical problems and the ability of passengers to check in on time. If you have booked flights though Totally India, specific instructions relating to departure and travel arrangements will be sent with your air or other travel tickets approximately 2 weeks before departure. You must accordingly check your tickets very carefully immediately on receipt to ensure you have the correct flight times. It is possible that flight times may be changed even after tickets have been despatched – we will contact you as soon as possible if this occurs. Any change in the identity of the carrier, flight timings, and/or aircraft type (if advised) will not entitle you to cancel or change to other arrangements without paying our normal charges except where specified in these conditions.
Booking Conditions (which includes the behaviour of any passenger(s) on the flight who, for example, fails to check in or board on time). In addition, we will not be liable for any delay unless it has a significant effect on your tour arrangements. If your flight is cancelled or delayed, your flight ticket is downgraded or boarding is denied by your airline, depending on the circumstances, the airline may be required to pay you compensation, refund the cost of your flight and/ or provide you with accommodation and/or refreshments under EC Regulation No 261/2004 – the Denied Boarding Regulations 2004. Where applicable, you must pursue the airline for the compensation or other payment due to you. All sums you receive or are entitled to receive from the airline concerned by virtue of these Regulations represent the full amount of your entitlement to compensation or any other payment arising from such cancellation, delay, downgrading or denied boarding. This includes any disappointment, distress, inconvenience or effect on any other arrangements. The fact a delay may entitle you to cancel your flight does not automatically entitle you to cancel any other arrangements even where those arrangements have been made in conjunction with your flight. We have no liability to make any payment to you in relation to the Denied Boarding Regulations or in respect of any flight cancellation or delay, downgrading of any flight ticket or denial of any boarding as the full amount of your entitlement to any compensation or other payment (as dealt with above) is covered by the airline’s obligations under the Denied Boarding Regulations. If, for any reason, we make any payment to you or a third party that the airline is responsible for in accordance with the Denied Boarding Regulations, you must, when requested, assign to us the rights you have or had to claim the payment in question from the airline. If your airline does not comply with these rules you may complain to the Civil Aviation Authority on 020 7453 6888 or by e-mail to passengercomplaints@caa.co.uk or see www.caa.co.uk – Referring Your Complaint to the CAA.
18. Excursions, activities and general area information.
We may provide you with information (before departure and/ or when you are on tour) about activities and excursions that are available in the area you are visiting. We have no involvement in any such activities or excursions that are neither run, supervised, controlled nor endorsed in any way by us. They are provided by local operators or other third parties who are entirely independent of us. They do not form any part of your contract with us even where we suggest particular operators/other third parties and/or assist you in booking such activities or excursions in any way. We cannot
accept any liability on any basis in relation to such activities or excursions and the acceptance of liability contained in clause 8(a) of our booking conditions will not apply to them. We do not however exclude liability for the negligence of ourselves or our employees resulting in your death or personal injury. We cannot guarantee accuracy at all times of information given in relation to such activities or excursions or about the area you are visiting generally or that any particular excursion or activity that does not form part of our contract will take place as these services are not under our control. If you feel that any of the activities or excursions referred to in our brochure, on our website and in our other advertising material that are not part of our contract are vital to the enjoyment of your tour, write to us immediately and we will tell you the latest known situation. If we become aware of any material alterations to area information and/or such outside activities or excursions that can reasonably be expected to affect your decision to book a tour with us, we will pass on this information at the time of booking.
19. Data Protection Statement.
Please be assured that we have measures in place to protect the personal booking information held by us. This information will be passed on to the principal and to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements. The information may also be provided to public authorities such as customs or immigration if required by them, or as required by law. Certain information may also be passed on to security or credit checking companies. If you travel outside the European Economic Area, controls on data protection may not be as strong as the legal requirements in this country. We will only pass your information on to persons responsible for tour travel arrangements. This applies to any sensitive information that you give such as any disabilities, or dietary/religious requirements. (If we cannot pass this information to the relevant suppliers, whether in the EEA or not, we will be unable to provide your booking. In making this booking, you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant persons.). Full details of our Data Policy are available on request.
20. Promotional Material.
By agreeing to these terms and booking conditions, you consent (unless otherwise notifying us in writing) to our staff taking photographs and or video footage of you during the tour and that these images may be used by us for publicity and training purposes including, but not limited to, in brochures, websites, marketing material and in the media.
17. Denied Boarding Regulations.
In the event of any flight delay or cancellation at your UK or overseas point of departure, the airline is responsible for providing such assistance as is legally required by the Denied Boarding Regulations (see below). The ferry, tunnel or rail operator is similarly responsible in relation to any delayed or cancelled sea crossing or international rail departure. Except where otherwise stated in our brochure or on our website, we regret we cannot provide any assistance in such circumstances other than information and advice to the extent we are in a position to do so. We regret we are not in a position to offer you any assistance in the event of delay at your outward or homeward point of departure. Any airline concerned may however provide refreshments etc. We cannot accept liability for any delay that is due to any of the reasons set out in clause 8(b) of these
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U.K. The Tailor-made Groups Company Ltd. Groups House Coopersale Hall Farm Fluxs Lane Epping Essex. CM16 7PE. 01992 579 697 India Sea & Sky Travel (India) PVT Ltd. 90/60, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi 10017 India Tel: + 91 11 26681027 Email: totallyindia@seaandskytravel.com
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Australia Venture Holidays Level 5, 41 Currie Street Adelaide SA 5000 Australia Tel: + 1300 414 151 Email: totallyindia@ventureholidays.com.au
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Clenton Pty Ltd trading as Venture Holidays ABN 40 101 240 036 Lic No. TTA68 New Zealand Antipodean Explorer Ltd 275 Pinecrest Drive, Gulf Harbour, Auckland 0930 Phone: + 64 9 424 4264 Email: totallyindia@explornz.co.nz
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