India in full colour
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2013/14
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;
2
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
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
3
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.
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!
4
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
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.
► 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.
How physical do you want to be?
Trekking tours
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.
► 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
5
Jaisalmer
Before you travel
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, like visa 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
6
Indian Embassy. Instead you must use an
agency appointed by the Embassy to handle
all visa applications.
Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory on a Totally
India trip. As part of your booking process,
therefore, we will require the name of your
insurance provider, policy number, a 24hour 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.
Bhuj
○
○
Leh
○
○ Dharamsala
Amritsar
○
Shimla
○
○ ○ Srinagar
○ Almora
Corbett NP ○ ○ Nainital
Rishikesh
Delhi
○
Sariska NP ○
Jaipur ○
Pushkar ○
○ Jodhpur
Pokhara
○ Agra
Lucknow ○
Chitwan NP○
○ Kathmandu
○ Dibrugah
○ Guwahati
○ ○ Varanasi
○ Khajuraho
○
Dhaka ○
○ Kolkata
Aurangabad
○
○ Mumbai
Hyderabad
○
GOA ○
○ Mysore
○ Chennai
○ Mamallapuram
Ooty ○
Kochi
Munnar
○ ○ ○ Madurai
Alleppey ○ ○ Periyar NP
○ Rameshwaram
Trivandrum ○
○
Kovalam
○ Kaziranga NP
○ Darjeeling
○ Ranthambore NP
Allahabad
Udaipur
○
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.
8
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).
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: FM
FROM
A$795
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
A$1,875
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
Tour ref: RS
FROM
A$1,320
9
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.
10
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
A$3,175
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: DN
FROM
A$1,835
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
A$1,995
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
Tour ref: MTT
FROM
A$1,895
11
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.
12
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
A$1,525
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: CJ
FROM
A$1,345
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
A$785
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
Tour ref: AS
FROM
A$1,365
13
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.
14
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
A$1,590
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: YKV
FROM
A$1,345
‘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
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.
16
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: BFM
FROM
A$635
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
A$870
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
Tour ref: BDD
FROM
A$1,365
17
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.
18
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
A$1,095
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: BNS
FROM
A$2,225
‘A desert safari is a
classic adventure – it has
everything; people, colour,
dramatic landscapes and
iconic architecture’
Prakash Kanotia, Totally India
Tour Development
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).
20
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: TDT
FROM
A$1,265
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
A$1,335
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
Tour ref: TSK
FROM
A$2,065
21
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
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
A$2,795
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: TTP
FROM
A$1,095
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
A$1,995
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
Tour ref: KL
FROM
A$1,585
23
‘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
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.
26
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: TM
FROM
A$665
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
A$1,425
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
Tour ref: HE
FROM
A$1,585
27
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
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: CGW
FROM
A$1,585
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
A$1,795
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
Tour ref: CKM
FROM
A$2,545
29
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
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
A$1,985
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: CKC
FROM
A$1,425
‘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
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.
32
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: FFK
FROM
A$1,175
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
A$995
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
Tour ref: FFM
FROM
A$995
33
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
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: RBP
FROM
A$1,475
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
A$1,585
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
Tour ref: RTN
FROM
A$1,185
35
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
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
A$1,155
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: RTNS
FROM
A$2,365
‘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
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.
38
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: PFM
FROM
A$1,380
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
A$1,745
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
Tour ref: PLPR
FROM
A$2,225
39
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.
40
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
A$1,895
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: PVA
FROM
A$1,895
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
A$1,125
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
Tour ref: PAS
FROM
A$2,060
41
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.
42
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
A$2,445
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref : PES
FROM
A$2,145
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
A$4,765
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
Tour ref : PGTT
FROM
A$1,895
43
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
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
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: EN
FROM
A$1,185
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
A$895
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
Tour ref: ENS
FROM
A$2,365
45
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.
46
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: MNI
FROM
A$2,335
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
A$3,795
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
Tour ref: MGP
FROM
A$1,425
47
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
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Tour ref: GTT
FROM
A$1,585
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
A$1,695
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
Tour ref: GXK
FROM
A$1,425
49
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
50
The festival of light
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
51
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.
52
Camel Festival, Pushkar Jaisalmer Festival
Gangaur Festival, Jaipur
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.
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.
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
53
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.
54
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
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.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
55
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.
Costs and Fees
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.
56
Your accommodation should be a good
base from which to spend your time
exploring the local area.
everything to run like clockwork,
irrespective of what country you are
in then you may be advised not to
book on some of our tours.
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.
Any pre-existing condition that
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).
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 that 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 understanding
of some dietary requirements.
Passport requirements
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.
Government advice
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 your
government’s travel advice service.
In the UK, you should consult the FCO
Travel Advice Unit website at www.gov.
uk/foreign-travel-advice.
In Australia you should consult The
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
website at www.smarttraveller.gov.au.
Other nationalities should consult the
relevant Embassy or Consulate before
making any decision to book. Our tours
are governed by the FCO travel advice
which is always either ‘Prescriptive’ (in
which case we would cancel or re-route
your tour) or ‘Advisory’.
Climate
Given the size of India it is not surprising
that there are considerable variations
in climate throughout the subcontinent;
April to September is hot; November to
February is cooler. Here is an outline of
the different seasons in India:
Name of the Season
Features
Winter
The size of our groups is not large
– between 10 and 16 participants (the
average group size is about 12).
The prices shown on this 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 accommodation
The nature of some of our tours
Monsoon or rainy season
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.
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
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.
Summer. The summer is also known
as the pre-monsoon season.
Post-monsoon period
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Essential Information
Booking Conditions
THE BROCHURE:
This brochure should be used as a guide only.
Prices are based on currency exchange rates effective
August 2013 and are subject to change without notice. All
products in this brochure are presented in Australian Dollars
and are GST free unless otherwise indicated.
► Please refer to your travel consultant at the time of
booking and at the time of final payment for full details
of any updated pricing or changed transfer, tour or
accommodation details.
► Please read your travel documents when you receive them
to ensure that you are getting what you asked and paid for. It
is important that you discuss any queries you have with your
travel consultant immediately, or at least before you travel.
► Maps are available on our website to assist you in setting
your tour itinerary and may not be to scale. Photographs are
representative only and may vary from the actual sites.
► We make every effort to keep touring information up to
date. Please note that if you have a problem with your hotel,
transfer or tour, in the first instance you should contact the
hotel front office manager or local tour operator. If you are
still not satisfied, please contact your travel consultant for
further advice.
BOOKING and PAYING
Your travel consultant is your main point of contact and is
the person responsible for correctly interpreting your travel
requirements, providing travel advice, collecting your money
for your booked travel, and providing you with your travel
documents. Please make sure that you are fully aware of
what you are paying for before you pay your deposit and/or
final payment.
► A deposit of $165 per adult ($55 per child) is payable
to your travel consultant within 7 days of confirmation, to
secure a booking. A further deposit may be required by the
hotel, tour operator, cruise line or other principal. Please
note that a deposited booking holds services but does not
guarantee prices.
► The balance is payable 60 days before your departure
from Australia or immediately on confirmation if booked
within this period. If you pay late you may not get your travel
documents until the last minute, or the booking may even be
cancelled and your deposit forfeited if deadlines are missed.
Please ask your travel consultant for any special airfare
conditions.
► If you request a change of name, tour, hotel or travel date
an amendment fee of $55 per booking will apply. If travel
documents have been issued, the fee will be $75 per file,
plus any applicable airline ticket reissue fees.
► Amendments within 45 days of departure may result in
operator cancellation fees, inability to confirm and/or delays in
receipt of travel documentation.
► Where possible, we will accept late bookings within 7 days
of departure, but please understand that this will be subject
to the availability of accommodation, tours and flights. Please
expect to pay higher airfares if booking at the last minute. Full
payment is required at time of booking if you book within 7
days of departure.
► If you choose to pay for your holiday with a credit card, a
credit card processing fee will be added to the total amount
of the booking. The current credit card processing fees on any
payments made by credit card are 2% for Mastercard and
Visa and 2.8% for American Express and Diners Club. Please
check for any variations to this at time of payment.
CANCELLATIONS
If you cancel or terminate your travel booking with us at any
time after confirmation, it will attract a $165 per adult ($55
per child) cancellation fee. In addition to this fee, there may
be additional cancellation fees charged by the hotel, tour
operator, airline or other principal. This can amount to up to
100% of your total booking, particularly when cancelling
tours and other arrangements within 45 days of departure.
No refund can be guaranteed for cancellations after the tour
has commenced or in respect of any tours, accommodation,
meals or any other services not utilised. Credit Offers cannot
be refunded or taken as cash.
► If we have to cancel or substantially change your travel
booking because of events outside of our control (this is very
rare), we will, where possible, offer you an alternative of a
similar standard. If you do not accept the alternative, we will
refund in full any monies already paid for those arrangements.
HEALTH and IMMIGRATION
You are responsible for all visa, passport, immigration,
quarantine, customs, health and other requirements of the
countries visited or transited. Passports must have at least 6
months’ validity from the date of your return to Australia. The
Australian Government has many travel advisories in place, for
the latest details refer to www.smartraveller.gov.au. If you are
not sure of your responsibilities, ask your travel consultant.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
It is compulsory that you purchase a travel insurance policy
before you travel on a Totally India tour. Travel insurance
should cover hospital treatment, medical evacuation, loss of
property, cancellation fees etc and is essential for anyone
travelling outside of Australia. Overseas medical costs are
expensive and not covered by Australian medical insurance.
Your travel consultant can assist in purchasing appropriate
travel insurance for your destination. The Australian
Government has provided information regarding the need
for adequate insurance including some case studies, refer to
http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/tips/insurance.html.
NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
Generally speaking, you are responsible for anything not
specifically included in your holiday package, which would
mean things like:
► Airfares and associated taxes and fuel surcharges
(unless otherwise stated).
► Costs of passports or visas.
► Meals other than those specified in the itinerary.
► Excess baggage charges.
► Personal items such as phone calls, laundry, drinks,
room service etc.
► Sightseeing other than specified in the itinerary, airport
taxes (paid locally) and Government taxes other than on
accommodation.
► Any costs in Australia.
►Travel Insurance.
240 036), have packaged and presented tours, transfers
and accommodation in this brochure for sale in Australia.
In our opinion, we have provided information and pricing in
this brochure which is correct at the time of printing, and
also goods and services of merchantable quality. We do
not own or operate services in our own right, acting only as
booking agent for our service providers, and thus we are
not responsible for these services. Bookings are subject to
the terms, conditions and limitation of liabilities imposed by
these service providers.
We do not accept liability whatsoever for injury, damage,
loss, delay, additional expenses caused directly or indirectly by
events that are beyond our control and jurisdiction, including
but not limited to war, civil disturbance, fire, floods, acts of
God, acts of government or of any other authorities, accident
to or failure of machinery or equipment or industrial action. It
is important that you are satisfied that your travel consultant
has fully and clearly explained to you what goods or services
you are receiving.
To the extent permitted by law, we exclude all liability for any
loss or damage whatsoever (including but not limited to physical
and psychological injury, and loss or damage to property of
whatever nature) arising out of or in any way connected with the
offer or supply of goods or services by us or any third parties.
If you believe that you did not receive what you requested and
paid for, and you are requesting a refund, you must inform
your travel consultant about the problem in writing as soon
as possible after the problem has occurred. If the law implies
a condition or warranty that cannot be excluded, our liability
will be limited to the re-supply or the payment of the cost of
re-supplying the relevant goods or services.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Venture Holidays holds a Travel Agents Licence TTA68, is a
member of the Travel Compensation Fund, International Air
Transport Association (“IATA”) and the Australian Federation of
Travel Agents (“AFTA”).
VALIDITY
This brochure is valid to 30 September 2014. Please read
these Booking Conditions carefully as they incorporate
the basis upon which bookings are accepted by Venture
Holidays. These Booking Conditions are governed by the
laws of South Australia, and any action arising under them
or in any way connected with the holiday may be brought
only in a court in South Australia, subject to any law which
is expressly inconsistent with this.
ALL PRICES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE PRIOR TO FINAL
PAYMENT.
LIMIT OF LIABILITY
We, Clenton Pty Ltd t/as Venture Holidays (ABN 40 101
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
57
Essential Information
And lastly, some tips to
BUDGETING
FIRST AID KIT
It is always difficult to advise on how much money to
take to India; local food and items can be rather cheap,
whereas some goods, particularly if imported, can be
expensive. As a guide however, if your tour is on Bed
And Breakfast basis, we suggest that you allow
A$25 to A$33 per day for other meals and snacks.
In addition many sites now charge for cameras so
allow about A$8 for this. Small items such as soft
drinks and postcards can add another A$8 per day
to your budget.
As an indication of likely costs, in India a two-course
meal in a local café might cost in the region of A$10;
while a three-course meal in a reasonable restaurant
might be in the region of A$15. Beer may be up to A$5,
while tea, coffee and bottled water may on average
cost about A$1.50.
While your Tour Leader will carry a comprehensive First
Aid Kit on your tour, we would nevertheless suggest that
you bring some basic items with you:
► Rehydration salts.
► Travel motion sickness tablets.
► Diarrhoea remedies; anti-histamines; cold and flu
remedies; laxatives.
► Mosquito repellent; insect bite cream.
► Anti-bacterial dry hand wash.
► Malaria tablets.
► Blister pads, bandage, plasters and steri-strips
► Suncream (over 30 factor); moisturiser; after sun
cream; lip balm.
► Contact lenses and solution if you use them.
► Tweezers.
► Painkillers.
► Any prescribed medication (and bring a copy of your
prescription with you).
CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR
It is best to travel in the clothes that you feel most
comfortable in. However you need to be aware of cultural
sensibilities, particularly when visiting religious sites or
local villages. For this reason tight clothing, or brief skirts
or shorts, are not advisable. With this in mind here is
a suggested clothing and packing list:
► Light cotton shirts or T-shirts; both short and
long sleeved.
► Lightweight jumpers or sweatshirts, plus a good
quality fleece or warm jumper.
► Cotton trousers; women should consider similar
dresses or skirts.
► A dress-up outfit for any more formal occasions
may find yourself on.
► Sun hat or cap; for ladies a head scarf is useful when
visiting mosques and temples.
► Swim suit or trunks.
► Pair of usual shoes, plus trainers, and flip-flops for
the shower.
► Travel soap, towel and toiletries.
► Torch (useful for power cuts).
► A bandana or handkerchief for those more
dusty roads.
► Sunglasses; water bottle.
FOOD AND ALCOHOL
If you are concerned as to the standard of food available
in India, it is worth emphasising that, whilst the cuisine
varies from north to south, there is everywhere a wide
choice of dishes and not all Indian food is hot and spicy.
Alcohol is available in most places, although imported
drinks can be expensive. There are local equivalents
of most drinks available at much lower prices, but the
quality of such national drinks can be questionable.
When budgeting for food and drink costs it is worth
bearing in mind that costs will vary enormously; food
from a roadside café will cost a fraction of what you will
pay at one of the major hotels or restaurants in India’s
major cities.
export rupees. You can purchase rupees on arrival
at International airports in India, and can change
rupees back into sterling or dollars at your departure
airport in India; this must be done before proceeding
through security.
Please bear in mind that, although some hotels and
restaurants accept credit cards, nearly all payments in
India are made in cash. ATMs are found in major cities,
however it is best not to rely on these as they are not
found everywhere. If planning to use your card in India it
is advisable to tell your bank that you will be visiting India,
or you may find your card is blocked at an ATM. Carry the
relevant telephone number of your card provider with you
so you can call them if your card is blocked.
Travellers Cheques may offer relatively poor rates and
can usually only be changed in cities and then only during
business hours. Hotels will normally change them at any
time but will usually offer relatively poor rates.
All in all it is advisable to carry some sterling, euros or
dollars in cash so that you can always find somewhere
to change money. It is also advisable to carry small
denomination notes. In India do not accept dirty, or torn,
banknotes as they will be difficult to get rid of, and ask
for 100 rupee notes, avoiding the 500 notes that may be
refused outside of major cities.
PACKING YOUR LUGGAGE
When packing it is preferable to use two bags: your
main luggage can be packed in a soft bag – a rucksack,
a duffle bag or a holdall – as this is more easily stowed
when we are travelling. A small daypack is then useful
for carrying your camera, wallet or purse, notebooks etc,
during the day when your main luggage is stored away.
PHOTOGRAPHY
LANGUAGE/ RELIGION
There are 17 official regional languages in India, as well
as myriad local languages and dialects. Hindi, however,
is the major language, with English being spoken as a
common language in most of the area you are likely to
visit. So you should always be able to make yourself
understood. As with languages so with religion: while
Hinduism is pre-eminent in the country, Islam, Buddhism,
Sikhism, Jainism and Christianity are all found in India.
From the point of view of courtesy it is always advisable
to obtain permission from your subject before you
take a photograph, or you may cause offence. Equally
importantly you should not photograph military
personnel or installations, or police or other officials. Be
aware too that this prohibition can extend to strategic
installations such as bridges or airports. Take care where
and when you take photographs or you could have your
camera confiscated. If in doubt, ask your Tour Leader.
MONEY MATTERS
RAILWAYS
The unit of Indian currency is the rupee. Visit www.xe.com
to check the latest exchange rate. It is illegal to import or
Railways in India play a part in many Totally India tours
so a few details of the trains we use may be of interest.
ELECTRICITY
In India electricity is 230 volts. If you plan to charge your
camera, or mobile phone, please bring a two round pin
Continental Europe type of adaptor.
58
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
Essential Information
help you on your way…
Where possible, particularly on those tours focused on
the railways of India, we will indicate which particular
express we expect to use. However it should be borne
in mind that this will be only an indication of our likely
train and an alternative express may have to be used on
occasion, as we have no control over the timetables of
Indian railways. Most trains tend to be quite long, with
numerous carriages.
There are numerous classes of travel on board.
Top of the range are the different categories of
air-conditioned class. AC1 is found only on the most
important long-distance trains, and offers carpeted
and lockable 4 and 2 berth compartments. AC2 is
similar but does not have separate compartments,
but has an open-plan layout, although privacy curtains
are provided for each berth. AC3 is similar to AC2 but
has 3 tiers of bunks and no privacy curtains. All 3 AC
classes offer seating during the day; the berths then
being made up for the evening.
AC Chair class comprises comfortable seating in
an air-conditioned carriage, and is perfectly comfortable
for daytime travel. Our daytime journeys on our Indian
tours are often in AC chair class but sometimes in
AC2 or 3 class.
Sleeper class, in non-air-conditioned carriages, is the
way most of the Indian population travel long-distance,
and most carriages on an inter-city train will be sleeper
class. This class consists of open plan berths with upper,
middle and lower bunks in bays of 6 on one side of the
aisle and along the wall of the carriage in bays of two on
the other side of the aisle. Bedding is not provided so
travellers must bring a sleeping bag.
Sleeper class is quite basic, but offers better views of
the passing landscape than AC class where the windows
are closed, and often dirty. In summer there are ceiling
fans and the breeze from the windows to keep travellers
cool. Our overnight train travel is in 2 tier or 3 tier class,
and in both classes a bed sheet, pillow and blanket,
together with a hand towel is provided by Indian Railways
as part of the cost of your ticket.
All carriages, of whatever class, have toilets although
the condition of these is variable. Snack sellers move
through the trains, and are also present at every stop,
where purchases can be made through the carriage
windows, except in AC carriages where the windows are
sealed, or by getting down onto the platform. If getting
off, however, listen carefully for the whistle as trains
tend to move off quickly.
SHOPPING
India is a shopper’s paradise. The opportunity to shop
will probably crop up every day of your tour, with local
handicrafts, silk, carpets and jewellery being popular
purchases. Your local guides may assume you want
to go shopping at some of the many emporiums and
workshops; please make it clear to them if this is not of
interest to you.
TIME
The following are the time differences in India:
Sydney/Melbourne/Brisbane
Adelaide/Darwin
Perth
- 4.5 hrs
- 4 hrs
- 2.5 hrs
TIPPING
Our Tour Leader and the other staff that support your
tour are, we feel, paid well and receive a fair wage.
However it must be said that tipping is a way of life in
India and your staff will expect some sort of gratuity at
the end of your tour.
While much depends on the level of service you have
received, we suggest that somewhere in the region of
A$40 to A$50 would be seen as an adequate allowance
for tipping local staff. You may also wish to tip your Tour
Leader as an appreciation of their service.
TOUR LEADERS
All our tours are led by fully trained local Indian Tour
Leaders. In the majority of cases your Tour Leader
will have led many tours similar to the one you have
chosen, and their detailed local knowledge makes all
the difference. They are with you throughout the tour,
and ready with background information, advice, and
a fund of stories, while also ensuring that the sometimes
complex logistical arrangements of your tour fall into
place without any major problems.
Using local Indian Tour Leaders, rather than flying out
a Tour Manager from the UK, means we, and you, tap into
the enormous local knowledge of our staff, making your
tour one that gives you the chance to understand the
heart of India and her people.
For detailed maps, dates and prices visit www.totallyIndia.net
59
AUSTRALIA
Venture Holidays
Level 5, 41 Currie Street
Adelaide SA 5000
Australia
Tel: + 1300 414 151
Email: totallyindia@ventureholidays.com.au
INDIA
Sea & Sky Travel (India) PVT Ltd.
90/60, Malviya Nagar,
New Delhi 10017
India
Tel: + 91 11 26681027
Email: totallyindia@seaandskytravel.com
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
U.K.
The Tailor-made Groups Company Ltd.
Groups House
Coopersale Hall Farm
Fluxs Lane
Epping
Essex. CM16 7PE.
01992 579 697
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