travel india - Orbit World Travel
Transcription
travel india - Orbit World Travel
13 DAY Real, life changing travel For girls 18+ years INDIA 2012 TRAVEL INDIA Girlosophy Travel 1 WELCOME Rajasthani Musicians, Agra Girlosophy, in collaboration with World Travel Professionals, is very proud to present a special trip through India, to be offered in 2012 for the first time. We will be taking a lucky group of girlosophers on a magical trip through the jewel of the Far East, learning photography, visiting conservation projects, experiencing Indian hospitality and engaging with desert communities along the way. For more information on this amazing opportunity to join Anthea Paul and the Girlosophy Crew on the trip of a lifetime, please see details below. pg 3-11 Travel Itinerary A natural draw for photographers since the invention of the camera, incredible India is rich pickings for those who like their visual stimulation. And here at Girlosophy, we’ve fallen hard for her charms. How can anyone resist the colour, glamour, mayhem and fun of the greatest shopping bazaar in the world. That’s right, shopping and photography and yoga and palaces and tigers and luxurious tents and movies and temples and elephants and… basically everything that makes our Girlo heart chakras spin at full rotation! pg 12 Pricing and Inclusions pg 13 Tour Schedule But you will have to register quickly to be on our team. Our trips close for bookings at the end of February, 2012. 2 Register worldtravel.com.au/groups GUIDE CONTENTS All Photography by Anthea Paul 01 Day 01 TRAVEL TO INDIA 11.15AM (SYDNEY) Flight to Delhi 10.10PM (DELHI) Welcome to Delhi! FLIGHT DETAILS Sydney to Delhi Airport Sydney Airport Depart Sydney 11.15am Airline Singapore Airlines Flight # SQ232/SQ408 Arrive Delhi 10.10pm Transfer to hotel Le Meridien ‘The world is the body; Delhi is its soul…’ This is how a 19th century poet described the city that has been so many things to so many different people. To the weary travellers on the ancient silk route it was the first plain after crossing the Himalayan Mountains with the promise of shelter, food and business opportunities. One of the major gateways to the sub-continent of India, Delhi remains a magnet for travellers in the 21st Century. Sophisticated and dignified, yet rich with the traditions of the old India, Delhi is the epicentre of action in the world’s largest democracy and the new emerging superpower of Asia. We begin our Indian odyssey in one of the world’s busiest and craziest cities, to cue you in visually to the wonder of what lies ahead. It all starts right here, right now! Graffitti Wall Delhi 3 On our arrival at Delhi airport, you will be met and transferred to our accommodation at Le Meridien Hotel. Girlo Travel Note Hotel General Info: Le Meridien hotel is situated two kilometres from Rashtrapati Bhawan – the home of the President of India, the Presidential Palace, Parliament House, and Connaught Place. This city centre hotel is set amidst the most alluring shopping and entertainment districts in New Delhi. End of Day 01 Overnight at hotel Le Meridien 02 Day 02 DISCOVERING DELHI 3:00PM Shopping 10.00AM Welcome Brunch at Le Meridien After a cruisy start to our day, we will have a healthy brunch at Le Meridien, after which you’ll have time to get organised for your first day out in Delhi! 1.00PM Depart for National Gallery of Modern Art in Delhi The Gallery was established with the objective of promoting modern art in India. Its treasures span miniature paintings to modernist interpretations and an impressive photography archive. After our lunch let’s check out at the vendors outside the elegant (and seriously jetset!) Imperial Hotel; then it’s a quick a hop to Central Cottage Industries Emporium, the single largest showcase of traditional Indian art and crafts. Not to be missed! If you still want more we can head over to Khan Market. This is an expat hangout, and is flocked to by those in the know for fashion, gorgeous (and reasonably-priced!) gold and silver jewellery, handmade paper products and sunglasses. 5.00PM A Special Welcome by Girlosophy at a private function within the hotel. Slideshow and Video Presentation: ‘Ways of Seeing – An evening of visual art and culture’ Introducing… India! We will give you an introduction to photography. Inspiring you is the essence and spirit of the Girlosophy ethos: by learning new ways of seeing, you’ll get the most out of your trip. You will come to understand India – and perhaps a great deal more! – through your own eyes. 7:00PM Dinner A delicious buffet dinner will be prepared and available for you to eat during the session. Entertainment Bollywood Dance Troupe performance After our presentation, it’s time to kick your heels up… This is your opportunity to become a Bollywood Star! We have a dance troupe who will be joining us to teach us a few Bollywood Dance steps. The dancers will also bring some costumes, show us how to wear a sari and how to apply the wonderfully theatrical Indian Bollywood make up. End of Day 02 Overnight at hotel Le Meridien Garland Making, Delhi 4 03 Day 03 DISCOVERING DELHI H W_i_dW>_bb – Viceroy’s House (residence of President of India) 12.30PM -1:00PM One of Delhi’s fashionable restaurants Veda is a popular hotspot to eat in Delhi. 6.00AM F Whb_Wc[dj>eki[– It was here that the constitution of independent India was drafted. Delhi Flower Markets & Creative Photography Workshop (From Girlo Optional Menu) This morning we’re going (early!) to the visually splendid flower markets of Delhi. For this outing we will leave the hotel by 0600 hours. The flower markets are located a short 10 minute drive from the hotel. Girlo Travel Note The Delhi Flower Markets is a wholesale market where retailers come and purchase their flowers to sell all over the city. This is one of the most colourful places to shoot – but we have to get there early to capture the action! There is a wide variety of flowers on offer and some serious negotiations will be taking place… that means plenty of opportunity for some great images! With a workshop presented by Girlosophy, we’ll cover some pro portrait tips and how to manage getting a clear shot in a busy environment. 8.30AM Breakfast at Le Meridien After a healthy breakfast, you’ll have time to refresh and get organised for our big day out. 10.00AM Day Tour of New Delhi and Old Delhi We meet in the lobby of the hotel for our outing today, a tour of New Delhi. The day unfolds as follows: Activity 01 Auto Rickshaw Ride A very ‘local’ feel of the city our auto rickshaw ride creates an authentic experience. We’ll see a number of landmarks of this teeming city including: ?dZ_W=Wj[ – The War Memorial Arch: the scene of many famous films and historical events From the India Gate we travel on Delhi’s new pride and joy – its Metro city rail system. We exit from the station into a completely different world: the hub that is Old Delhi. Our transportation will be lined up in the parking lot, waiting for us: cycle rickshaws! Activity 02. Rickshaw Tour Organized Chaos a unique tour of Old Delhi on Cycle Rickshaws. You’ll see: J ^[H[Z<ehj– India’s historic and majestic fort: 9^WdZd_9^ema– the major street in the walled city is a photographer’s dream Arrive for lunch at Veda 2:30PM Birla Mandir Temple – Connaught Place Located in the heart of the shopping district is one of the most highly decorative Hindu temples in Delhi, Birla Mandir is a gorgeous temple dedicated to Vishnu and his consort Lakshmi. An excellent example of Orissan-style architecture, the temple contains a profusion of idols, deities and sculptures. 4:00PM Return to Hotel We will return to the hotel late afternoon. You will have time to yourself prior to dinner. Girlo Travel Note The essence of Old Delhi is one of its most populated areas. This centuries old marketplace is found along myriad narrow alleyways. Jewellers, spice merchants, food vendors, money lenders, shopping arcades and homes are all here in vibrant proximity to each other. Cosy! Activity 03. Raj Ghat Where India’s most famous political activist Mahatma Gandhi was cremated, and the site of his eternal flame. Peaceful and beautiful, Ghandi’s tomb with its surrounding grounds is a site that never fails to move all who visit it. 7:00PM Dinner and a Movie Dinner tonight is in the hotel’s restaurant. Following our delicious meal, we’ll have a private function room to ourselves where we will have an informal discussion about anything and everything from the day’s events. A ‘show n tell’ and finally a movie night with screening of a film hand-picked by Girlosophy for your viewing pleasure! End of Day 03 Overnight at hotel Le Meridien Activity 04. Creative Photography Workshop While at Raj Ghat we will conduct a workshop focusing on building your photographic skills. In each of our workshops we’ll impart tips that will help you create a unique portfolio of images. From here we head to our lunch destination on Rajnath. Stained Glass 5 6 04 Day 04 DELHI TO AGRA TRAIN DETAILS Delhi to Agra 5.00am 6.00am Depart Hotel Train Departs snack packs provided 8.10am Arrive in Agra Welcome to Agra Girlo Travel Note Agra city is a virtual gateway to a world of discovery and the setting for the rise of three great Mughal monarchs - Akbar, Jehangir and Shah Jehan, all of whom lavished love and riches on this fabled city. Their collective efforts created one of the greatest centres of art, culture, learning and commerce. Our trip to the heart of Rajasthan begins… 8.30AM Agra We will meet our local guides at the station and then transfer to our hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, we will have time to freshen up in our rooms before heading out for the day. 10:00AM 3.30PM The Great Red Fort of Agra High Tea and The Taj Mahal at Sunset The Agra Fort’s construction was started by Emperor Akbar in 1565 when he was just 23 years of age. Within the fort are several fascinating buildings – the Pearl Mosque built of marble, the Hall of Public Audiences, the Hall of Private Audiences where the famous “Peacock Throne” was kept, the Octagonal Tower, the Jehangir Palace built by Akbar for his son Jehangir and the Khas Mahal, a beautiful white marble structure used as a private palace. We will be visiting a traditional Indian home (Haveli) for late afternoon High Tea. One of the formal British traditions to have survived independence, indulging in high tea is an Indian favourite and it is always beautifully done! At the home of our gracious hosts, you can participate in a demonstration of cooking – and eating! – delicious Indian gourmet snacks and sweet treats to fuel up for our sunset tour. Next up we visit The Kohinoor, the place to see some of the finest Rajput embroidery and jewellery in the world. Be dazzled by these magnificent gemstones and textiles from Rajasthan’s imperial past. After our ‘high tea’ we will drive to one of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World’, the majestic Taj Mahal. 1.00PM Lunch is at The Trident, Agra. After lunch, we will check-in to our rooms at our hotel for our stay in Agra, at The Trident. Girlo Travel Note The Trident is set amidst beautiful gardens, fountains, landscaped central courtyards, and is built of red stone reminiscent of the Mughal era. The Hotel is literally, a stone’s throw away from one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal. You will have some time to relax this afternoon and explore the hotel, prior to our afternoon tour. Previous Page Farm Girl, Central India This Page Flower Market, Kashmir Girlo Travel Note Often described as the most extravagant monument ever built for love, ‘The Taj’ took 22 years to be built by Shah Jehan in memory of his beloved wife. In total around 20,000 craftsmen and labourers worked on The Taj, which is amazingly graceful and provides spectacular visuals from almost any angle. Breathtakingly beautiful. … and to market, to market! You will also have the opportunity to visit some of the fabulous market stalls in the surrounding village at the security entrance to the Taj Mahal. We love a good souvenir here at Girlo and this location has some real treasures! (Snowdome of the Taj? Check). Note: Remember to bring a little spending money… 7.30PM Dinner at Hotel Trident Following our visit to the Taj Mahal, we head back to our hotel for dinner where you will have a room credit* to spend at the hotel restaurant or on room service if you’d like to veg out in your own room. You can enjoy the hotel amenities and ‘get in’ to the vibe of grand India. End of Day 04 Overnight at Hotel Trident, Agra 7 05 Day 05 AGRA TO RANTHAMBORE 7.00AM Yoga and Meditation (From Girlo Optional Menu) This morning’s yoga session will be held in the peaceful grounds of The Trident. Mats will be provided. 8.30-9.00AM Q&A Session over Breakfast We will meet for breakfast where you will have time to ask questions and talk to the Girlosophy staff. 10.00AM Leave Agra Leave for our road trip to Ranthambore 12.30PM Lunch Lunch in Elegance of an Ancestral Home in Chandra Mahal Haveli We continue our journey towards Ranthambore, taking some time out for lunch at a special location. We will drive up to the lunch spot on tractors, so we get to enjoy the fields and farm-lands of the area. Lunch will be at Chandra Mahal Haveli situated in Peharsar village. The haveli (a traditional decorated Indian residence) has amazing views, a central courtyard with a marble fountain, and numerous balconies. After lunch, we will be hosting a “Kids with Camera Workshop” with the local school. Girlo Travel Note Another part of our ‘giving back’ and responsible traveller ethos, you will experience India through the eyes of the local children and interact with them in pre-allocated groups. Teaching them how to use the cameras we have supplied you with, we will break into groups. From this experience we will then compile a book which will serve as a memento for both the children and for us. After our workshop, we will leave for the train station at nearby Kota Janshatabadi for our train to Sawai. Ganesh TRAIN DETAILS Kota Janshatabadi to Sawai 3.50pm Train Departs 6.02pm Train Arrives 6:02PM Welcome to Ranthambore! Famous for its tigers! Over the last decade, as a result of strict preservation, tigers have become more and more active during the day. More than any other sanctuary in India, tigers are encountered here in daylight. This park also has a large population of panthers, the second largest predators of the national park. Marsh crocodiles are also visible in and around the lakes. Other predators in Ranthambore include hyenas, jackals and jungle cats. Ranthambore also has great viewing of Sloth bears, Caracal, Sambar, Chital, Nilgai (Blue Bull), wild boar, Indian gazelles, Indian hare, mongoose and Monitor lizards. On arrival in Sawai, we will meet our guide and go on to our hotel, the Hotel Nahargarh . Girlo Travel Note The Hotel Nahargarh lies nestled at the foothills of the oldest mountain chain in the world, the Aravali Range neighbouring the Ranthambore National Park. The hotel looms large over the undulating terrain of Ranthambore, and is a great example of classic Rajasthani architecture. 7:30PM Dinner and Movie Night Following dinner, we have a special screening of an Indian film, handpicked by Girlosophy for your enjoyment. End of Day 05 Overnight at Hotel Nahargarh 8 06 Day 06 RANTHAMBORE Safari Day! It’s an early start to catch a tiger, so we will give you a snack to keep you going on the Jeep ride through the park. 12.00PM 4:00PM Lunch is at the hotel Return to the Hotel After the safari we return to our hotel 2.00PM Lunch Jungle Safari in the Ranthambore National Park. 5:00PM 7.00AM Safari Jungle Safari in the Ranthambore National Park in a Canter (3 hours). After the safari we head back for breakfast. 10:00AM Breakfast at the Hotel Rest of the morning at leisure. This hotel offers a range of activities and amenities and there will be time to have a dip in the pool and enjoy being in this gorgeous location. Indian Guard 9 Why not take a quick dip in the pool prior to getting ready for dinner or join us for an evening yoga session... Bliss! Girlo Travel Note It is recommended to avoid bright coloured clothing on game drives. Beige, brown and green are standard colours that are recommended. The hotel will provide warm wraps as evenings and early mornings will be cold. Yoga and Meditation (From Girlo Optional Menu) 6:30PM Pre Dinner Drink 7:00PM BBQ Dinner at the Hotel End of Day 06 Overnight at Hotel Nahargarh 07 Day 07 AGRA TO SAMODE Once again, it’s an early start for our safari so snacks will be provided to keep you going. 7.00AM Safari Jungle Safari in the Ranthambore National Park. After the safari we return for breakfast. 10:00AM Breakfast Breakfast at the Hotel 11.00AM Ranthambore to Samode (approx 225 kms / 5 hours) Girlo Travel Note Historically used by the Samode family for private retreats, Samode Bagh is idyllic and unusual, more haven than hotel. Be charmed by the lush abundance of trees, plants, flowers in a sanctuary set amidst fountains, waterways and pavilions, as you sit out under luxurious canopied tented ceilings and verandahs, you will enjoy one of the most famed settings in the whole of India. Afternoon Chillout The reminder of the afternoon is free to relax at Samode Bagh, or meet with a group and take in some of the local sights. You can take a nature walk, meditate, swim in the exotic pool, or rejuvenate with a massage, prior to getting ready for dinner. Optional Extra. 02.00PM Spa Treatment Lunch Lunch packs will be provided for the trip. 06.30PM AFTERNOON As we weave our way across low hills towards Samode, we are in for an evening of royal splendour at the Samode Palace. Samode Bagh We arrive at the hotel Samode Bagh and check–in. On arrival at Samode we check in at Samode Bagh which is our special Raj tent style accommodation for tonight. The Magic of Samode – A Night with Girlosophy Girlo Travel Note Samode Palace is one of the most famous and beautiful heritage hotels in India. Brimming with atmosphere and style, Tatler Magazine put Samode Palace in its special issue Tatler’s 101 Best Hotels calling it: “By far the hippest heritage hotel in Jaipur”. Soak up the atmosphere of the Rajhastan desert in the true ambience that the Maharajahs and their royal courts have enjoyed for centuries. As the sun sets, a majestic spectacle awaits us. We approach the Palace from below, entering the formidable iron studded gates of the main entrance and rising to the main haveli, which is illuminated with hundreds of lights. Serenaded by musicians playing the shehnai (a traditional Indian musical instrument), we will be presented with fresh garlands of flowers and enjoy a special tikka ceremony. As the stars appear in the night sky, we enter the spectacular Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors) for our ‘Welcome Drinks’. For this event we are received by our host, a member of the Royal family of Samode. Following the royal welcome, we watch the famous Rajasthani dancers and as we are having the banquet, we will be entertained by some local folk musicians. After all the dining and dancing, we return to the Samode Bagh luxury tents. Late Night Movie We will be screening a movie that has been chosen for you by Girlosophy. For this a special screening tent will be created so you can relax in your PJs to watch the film. End of Day 07 Overnight at hotel Samode Bagh (Special tent accommodation) Palace Door Panel, Jaipur 10 08 Day 08 SAMODE TO JAIPUR 6:30 - 09:30AM Breakfast Breakfast is at the hotel, Samode Bagh. have authentic Mendhi hand and foot henna tattoos which are traditional (and temporary!) decorations for Indian women and which enhance any outfit. (No need to think before this ink!) Tonight’s accommodation will be in the Samode Palace for the evening (we check-in here in the afternoon). 2:00PM Samode to Jaipur 9:30AM A Jeep Drive through Samode Village Jeeps await to take us on a safari to nearby rural villages. Here we will experience traditional Indian village hospitality as the honoured guests of the fiercely proud Rajasthanis and residents of Samode Village. Village Highlights include Visit real homes and interact with the local people, be shown around the charming and atmospheric village. Shopping within Samode Village – buy bangles, bindis, and other items from local convenience stores and textiles stalls. The opportunity to take photographs while being shown a window into the hearts and souls of the Rajistani people. 11 We drive from Samode to Jaipur (approx. 1 hour road trip) Girlo Travel Note Jaipur is the bustling capital of Rajasthan and is called the “Pink City”, for by law, all the buildings in the old city must be painted a deep saffron-pink. The city is known for its arts and crafts: jewellery, enamel work, hand-painted fabrics and stone sculptures. Jaipur is an extraordinarily colourful place. Women glide past in brilliant red and orange head coverings and sweeping skirts, and men in their equally vivid turbans and upturned moustaches. Jaipur is simply visual feast. 12.30PM 3.00PM (APPROX) Lunch at a Local Farm Explore Jalpur Lunch today is served in a delightful grove of trees in the middle of a farm. It’s rustic and classic Rajhastan! We’ll have an opportunity to relax while we’re at the farm as well as witness Indian craftsman who will display traditional Indian handicrafts. You’ll be able to see how bangles, pottery, paintings, etc are made by these incredibly skilled artisans– and of course there is the potential to take great action pictures and portraits. We will also witness fresh Indian bread being made and one of our favourites the “lassi” (a completely delicious beverage made from yogurt also known as ‘the Indian smoothie’.) This afternoon we will explore Jaipur, taking in the following iconic locations and landmarks: Local Entertainment L _i_jJ^[=[cFWbWY[– This gorgeous little boutique is where Liz Hurley, Kate Moss and the stylish set go shopping for authentic Rajhastani jewellery. The Gem Palace is one of the high-end shops in Jaipur, but they also have items with more affordable prices. The family that runs A traditional palm reading by a palmist Snake – charmer Live puppet show Music played by local musicians. Beauty Bonus You will also have the opportunity to J ^[9_joFWbWY[WdZj^[EXi[hlWjeho The largest single pieces of silver in the world are found here, according the Guinness Book of World Records. You will have the opportunity to shop – vendors selling a variety of items can be found outside the entrance to The Observatory. F WbWY[e\M_dZi– we can view and photograph the spectacular façade from the bazaar while we are shopping. this landmark store in Jaipur exhibit their rare and precious artefacts in museums and exhibitions worldwide and several are on display in-store. @W_fkhJ[nj_b[iI^ef – Before we return to the Hotel, you will get measured in store for a Salwar Kameez. An evergreen fashion classic, the Salwar Kameez outfit is the essence of ‘Boho chic’. It consists of a pretty Indian tunic top and pants, and the cost of both the fabric and the production of your outfit is included in your travel package. Simply indispensible when travelling throughout Asia and you’ll have it for years to come! Afternoon Activity Jaipur - Photography Workshop We will be having a photography workshop this afternoon on our tour. 5:30PM Hotel check-in: Jai Mahal Palace Uur ‘home away from home’ in Jaipur for the next few days. Girlo Travel Note Set amidst 18 acres of beautifully landscaped Moghul gardens, this incomparable Palace dates back to 1745 A.D. A masterpiece in the Indo Saracenic style of architecture, it blends spotlight-grabbing opulence with tantalizing comforts that transport guests to a world of Rajasthani magnificence. It is located downtown, close to the main shopping centre and historical monuments. 7:00PM Dinner is at local Restaurant across the road from our hotel. End of Day 08 Overnight at Hotel Jai Mahal 12 09 Day 09 JAIPUR 6.30-10.00AM Breakfast Breakfast is at the hotel. 10.00AM Depart Depart the Hotel for the Amber Fort Citadel Girlo Travel Note The Amber Fort is one of the most visited of the Jaipur destinations, situated on the top of a desert cape in the hills on the outskirts of the city of Jaipur. An architectural masterpiece, the Amber Palace (as it is also referred to) is a stunning location, made for photography. Just a few of the highlights: The fort entrance, The Sun Gate, the exquisite Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) and the small but fabulous Sila Devi Temple dedicated to the Goddess Sila, also known as Kali or Durga. We will ride to the top of the Fort by Jeep. 11.15AM Girlo Travel Note More than one hundred elephants get cared for every day in the Elephant Village by their Mahouts. The elephants have been a traditional part of the ceremonies and historical moments at the Amber Palace throughout the centuries. In a move to protect and improve the living conditions of the elephants, the Government of Rajasthan has allotted thirty hectares of land incorporating stable blocks for each of the elephants. A large man-made lake has been created where the elephants can swim, play and be thoroughly washed down after a day in the heat and dust. The Elephant Village Program has been created to give special care to the elephants and to both educate and help their mahouts. 1:00PM Depart Depart the Elephant Village 4:00PM Optional Activity - Spa Treatment (From Girlo Optional Menu) Jai Mahal Palace Hotel Spa offers luxurious massage therapies by trained professionals in beautifully ambient spa rooms. 7:00PM Bohemian Barbeque Dinner at the Majestic Lotus Pond Tonight’s dining experience has been arranged in the magnificent Lotus Pond area of the Jai Mahal Palace. Dressed in your tailored Salwar Kameez for our Girlosophy ‘Boho Chic’ dinner, we’ll enjoy our barbecue feast, surrounded by traditional Rajasthani musicians and dancers. Join in on the dancing and festivities or figure out how to use your flash to capture colourful high-octane action shots! End of Day 09 Overnight at Hotel Jai Mahal Palace 1:30PM Lunch Lunch is at the hotel Amber Fort Citadel We meet at The Sun Gate where we will gather with the Mahouts (the elephant guides) and the elephants in preparation for their departure from the Amber Fort back to the Elephant Village. 2:30PM An Elephant Extravaganza – The Elephant Village You will wander through Old Jaipur and the bazaars which are an experience in itself. Brimming with colour, they are noisy and happily chaotic and you can buy just about anything here. The most interesting bazaars lie within the Pink City quarter. The best way to tackle them is perhaps by first taking a slow ‘drive-by’ in a cycle rickshaw and then coming back to the sections you find most interesting to haggle for that perfect scarf or bag. Vibrant and Pulsating! We have a unique opportunity to visit the Elephant Village which is India’s first – and the world’s third – elephant village. Witness the art of Textile, carpet weaving, blue pottery and paper making - A cycle rickshaw ride through Jaipur’s Bazaars! We head back to the hotel where you will have the remainder of the afternoon at leisure. 13 Previous Page Taj Mahal This Page Ganesh 10 Day 10 SAMODE TO JAIPUR 6.30-7.30AM Breakfast Breakfast is at the hotel 8.00AM Drive to Rohet Drive to Rohet enroute we stop for a quick visit and lunch at Pushkar. 11.00AM 12.30PM Pushkar – The Abode Of Lord Brahama (Stop for 1 hour) Packed Lunch The sister city of Ajmer, Pushkar is just 11 kms from Ajmer. Pushkar is a picturesque town by the side of the beautiful Pushkar Lake with its many bathing ghats and temples. The city is considered by Hindus to be one of the most sacred places in India with an amazing temple. On the road to Rohet. 4.30PM Arrival and check-in at Rohet Garh Picturesque Rohet Garh is a classified Heritage Hotel with a strong equestrian culture in the heart of a wilderness setting. If you like your horses and your history, this one’s definitely for you! Dinner at the hotel (own expense) End of Day 10 Overnight at Rohet Garh Indian Farm Girls 14 11 Day 11 JAIPUR 6.30-8.00AM Breakfast Breakfast is at the hotel. 9.00AM Jodhpur City We set out on our tour of Jodhpur City. Jodhpur: The Blue City at the edge of the Desert Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur’s Markets on Rickshaws – Shopping 12.30PM Lunch is at Taj Hari Mahal Palace After lunch we return to Rohet, enroute visit the carpet weavers and other local artisans in their homes. Great photo op! Bridal Mendhi, Udaipur 15 2.00PM 4:30PM Safari through Rohet Royal Picnic A Safari through the villages of the World’s first Environmentalists and Photography Workshop. Be it in jeeps, on camel or on horse, the Royal Picnic is a wonderful tradition that Rohet Garh is famous for. Set in a surprise location somewhere with a beautiful view, we’ll get to experience an outdoor picnic dinner, Indianstyle. It’s ‘Girlo meets Out of India’ – the perfect way to spend our last evening in Rajasthan. Girlo Travel Note Our host is a relation of the royal family of Jodhpur who will take us on a Jeep Safari to the Bishnoi villages. The Bishnois are often referred to as ‘The world’s first environmentalists’ for the care and protection they insist upon for the wildlife and other animals in their region and with the land on which they live. You will also have an opportunity to try your hand at blocked textiles with the local village ladies. Following our safari, we head back to our hotel. Special Movie Night Following dinner, we have a final get-together for visual art and photography discussion. A ‘Show ‘n Tell’ of objects plus, another special screening of a great movie, rounds off the night. End of Day 11 Overnight at Hotel Rohet Garh 12 13 Day 12/13 ROHET TO DELHI 7:00AM FLIGHT DETAILS FLIGHT DETAILS Rohet to Delhi Sydney to Delhi Yoga & Meditation (From Girlo Optional Menu) Depart Hotel Rohet Garh Airport Delhi Airport Our final yoga session will be held in the elegant grounds of the hotel. Mats will be provided. Airport Rohet Airport Depart Delhi 11.25pm Depart Rohet 3.30pm Airline Singapore Airlines Airline Singapore Airlines Flight # SQ407/SQ211 Flight # TBC Arrive Sydney 06.55pm Arrive Delhi 06.55pm 8:30AM Breakfast at Hotel Rohet Garh Horse riding by arrangement with hotel Swimming Bike riding Bird watching Culinary workshop at Rashmi Singh’s kitchen in Hotel Rohet Garh We will check out of the hotel early this afternoon, prior to transferring to Rohet airport for our flight to Delhi. Our Indian journey is at an end, but our friendship and our memories are forever. Thank you for being with us. 16 “I came to your shore as a stranger, I lived in your house as a guest, I leave the door as a friend...” Rabindranath Tagore Barefoot Pilgrims, Taj Mahal, Agra Next Page Rajasthan Market 17 13 DAY PRICING & INCLUSIONS FLIGHTS Singapore Airlines return economy class airfares from Sydney to Delhi. Indian Airlines one way economy class airfares from Jodhpur to Delhi Visa ACCOMMODATION (BASED ON TWIN SHARE) 3 nights Le Meridien Hotel Delhi 1 night Trident Hotel Agra Sunset Tour of Taj Mahal and High Tea at Indian Home Village Lunch at Peharsar Photography Workshop at Raj Ghat (Ghandi Memorial) Day Tour – The City Palace, Palace of Winds and the Gem Palace Photography Workshop at Taj Mahal Measured for our own Indian Outfit Photography Workshop at The City Palace The Bazaars of Old Jaipur Tour Safari through the Village of the World’s first environmentalists. 1 night Samode Bagh (Luxury Tents) Rail fare for Delhi – Agra sector 2 nights Jai Mahal Palace Porterage at airports, railway stations and hotels. GIVING BACK Kids with Cameras – Peharsar Village School Samode – Local community work helping to clear fields (Optional) TOURS National Gallery of Modern Art Old and New Delhi Tour including visit to Cottage Industries Raj Ghat (Gandhi Memorial) The Great Fort of Agra Girlosophy Banquet and Party at Samode Palace Movie Night - Delhi Bohemian BBQ / Night at Hotel Rohet Garh, Rohet Jeep safari in Samode. Snacks provided on longer journeys Movie Night in Delhi Metro and rickshaw ride in Delhi. Lunch and Dinner – as per itinerary Water included on transfers Bollywood Dance Lesson Movie Night - Ramthambore Rickshaw ride to Taj Mahal in Agra. Mineral water + soft drinks with all lunches + dinners. ENTERTAINMENT One Local English speaking guide for visits as per itinerary. Breakfast Daily All meals throughout the trip as per the above itinerary on fixed menu basis. Photography Workshop in Rohet Tour of Jodhpur City Transport in one air-conditioned 45 Seater Volvo coach. MEALS Fine Art Workshop Three Game Drives in Ranthambore 2 nights Hotel Nahargarh 2 night Rohet Garh Hotel EDUCATIONAL TOUR HOSTED Tour Hosted by Anthea Paul & Geraldine Mills GIRLOSOPHY TRAVEL & GIFT PACK INCLUSIONS (RETAIL VALUE OF $300) Girlosophy Moleskine Trip Journal CONSERVATION Lomo Camera Plus Film Elephant washing & maintenance in Agra 3 roles of film included with Camera Safari through Environmentalist Village Salwar Kameez (Individually tailored traditional outfit, made in India) Ticket Wallet includes luggage tags and all travel related information Total $6,260 There is an optional menu of activities available at extra cost for registrants on the trips, these additional items are contained within the registration pages. 18 PER PERSON (ALL INCLUSIVE) $4,535.00 PER PERSON (LAND ONLY) 13 DAY 19 TOUR SCHEDULE PART 01 DAY/DATE LOCATION MORNING LUNCH AFTERNOON EVENING DAY 01 Sydney > Delhi 11.15am SQ232 SYD/SIN In flight In flight 10.10pm Arrive into Delhi Transfer to hotel Overnight Le Meridien DAY 02 Delhi Welcome Brunch at hotel Depart for National Gallery Shopping – Cottage Industries Slideshow / Dinner/ Bollywood Performance Overnight Le Meridien DAY 03 Delhi Delhi Flower Market Breakfast at hotel Day tour of New & Old Delhi Lunch at Veda Birla Mandir Temple Dinner & Movie Overnight Le Meridien DAY 04 Delhi > Agra Train to Agra Breakfast at Hotel Agra The Great Red Fort Lunch at Trident High Tea & The Taj Mahal at Sunset Dinner at Hotel Overnight - Trident DAY 05 Agra > Ranthambore Yoga Q&A Breakfast Lunch at hotel Jungle Safari Yoga Session BBQ Dinner Overnight – Hotel Nahargarh DAY 06 Ranthambore Jungle Safari Breakfast Lunch at Hotel Jungle Safari Yoga Session BBQ Dinner Overnight – Hotel Nahargarh DAY 07 Ranthambore > Samode Jungle Safari Breakfast On road to Samode Arrive into Samode Spa Girlo Function at Samode Palace Overnight – Samode Bagh 13 DAY 20 TOUR SCHEDULE PART 02 DAY/DATE LOCATION MORNING LUNCH AFTERNOON EVENING DAY 08 Samode > Jaipur Samode Village in Jeeps Lunch at local Farm Pink City Workshop Dinner at local restaurant Overnight – Jai Mahal Palace DAY 09 Jaipur Breakfast Elephant Village Lunch at hotel Old Jaipur – Textiles etc Dinner at Hotel Overnight Jai Mahal Palace DAY 10 Jaipur > Pushkar - Rohet Breakfast Pushkar Lunch at Pushkar Resort Rohet Garh Dinner at hotel Overnight – Hotel Rohet Garh DAY 11 Rohet > Jodhpur - Rohet Breakfast Jodhpur City Lunch at Taj Hari Mahal Palace Safari through Village of the World’s first Environmentalists Dinner at hotel Overnight – Hotel Rohet Garh DAY 12 Rohet > Delhi Breakfast Morning at leisure Lunch at leisure 5.55pm – Flight to Delhi 11.25pm – Flight from Delhi > Australia DAY 13 In Flight In flight In flight 6.55pm Arrive into SYD CONTACT For more information on this amazing opportunity to join Anthea Paul and the Girlosophy Crew on the trip of a lifetime Register worldtravel.com.au/groups Visit girlosophy.com 21 Live. Laugh. Love. Travel. Girlosophy.