North India Women-only Cultural Tour – Fall, 2012

North India Cultural Tour for Women

Number of days: 14

Itinerary dates: November 4 – 17, 2012

Tour Leader: Dianne Sharma-Winter

* Register by June 1 and receive a free copy of the book India: In Word and Image ($60 value). Also save on flights and be matched with another participant to avoid single supplement!

WanderTours Giving Program – A portion of your tour cost will go to supporting a non-profit program in North India. You will have a chance to visit and learn more about the program during the tour.

This 14-day women-only tour includes many of North India’s highlights as well as experiences for the woman interested in an unparalleled India experience.

You’ll visit the Taj Mahal, enjoy a spectacular evening of Diwali festivities and a take trip to the ancient temple complex at Bateshwar. You’ll also be actively involved in the local culture as you have lunch at the home of a Jodhpur family, watch a live Bollywood performance that will be a feast for the senses and visit handicraft workshops benefiting a village’s poor children.

Read India FAQs and learn about what to expect in India
See Hotels in North India
View North India Photo Gallery
See Beth’s recommended books on India

Itinerary
Day 1
November 4, 2012 – Arrive Delhi
Upon arrival at the airport (usually late evening), you will be met by a driver and transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 2
November 5, 2012 – Delhi
On this, your first full day in India, the group will tour both Old and New Delhi. You’ll start by visiting Old Delhi which is filled with street markets and bazaars found among a maze of narrow lanes. You’ll visit the famous Red Fort, the Jama Masjid Mosque and bustling Chandni Chowk – an area known for its variety of street stalls and shops.

After lunch, the group will tour New Delhi with its wide tree-lined boulevards and upscale homes. You’ll see beautiful parks, the magnificent Parliament Building, Rashtrapati Bhawan (the official residence of the President of India) and India Gate. You’ll also visit some of New Delhi’s more interesting sites including Qutab Minar, the 72.5 meter tower that dates back to the 13th century, and Humanyunʹs Tomb (built in the 16th century).

This will be a full day and in the evening the group will go to the Kingdom of Dreams to see a Bollywood musical show. This theatrical performance is the ultimate in entertainment. Located across acres of land, this magnificent event distills India into one iconic destination and brings to life a blend of Indiaʹs art, culture, heritage, craft, cuisine and performing arts. Overnight in Delhi.

HIGHLIGHT! Today will be a fantastic introduction to not only the city of Delhi but also to India itself as you’ll see a wide cross-section of life and culture. While the Kingdom of Dreams is entertainment, it is an excellent overview of things to come during your journey.

Day 3
November 6, 2012 – Delhi‐ Jodhpur ‐ Rohet
After breakfast, the group will transfer to the airport to board a flight to Jodhpur. Upon arrival, you’ll tour the area, visiting Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada, a marble memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh. Some sections of the thin marble walls are translucent (often referred to as something of a miracle). You’ll also visit Umaid Bhawan Palace – the only Indian palace built in the mid-20th century and a good representation of Indo‐colonial style.

For lunch, you’ll be welcomed into the home of a local family, where you’ll get to experience the hospitality for which India is so famous. You’ll see what a typical Rajasthani home looks like and have the chance to learn about local culture and customs.

In the afternoon, you’ll drive to Rohetgarh. Overnight in Rohet.

HIGHLIGHT! You’ll marvel at Mehrangarh Fort which stands sentinel to the grandeur of the past. It houses a palace intricately adorned with long carved panels and latticed windows that are exquisitely created from red sandstone and include a rich collection of palanquins, howdas, royal cradels and miniature paintings.

Day 4
November 7, 2012 – Rohet
Today, you’ll spend the morning enjoying a cooking demonstration and tasting. You’ll learn to prepare some delightful traditional Indian cuisine and take home recipes, photos and memories of this amazing meal.

In the afternoon, you’ll take a jeep safari to the nearby Rabari and Bishnoi villages, where locals maintain quite traditional lifestyles. Overnight in Rohet.

HIGHLIGHT! The Bishnois are a community famous for their rich cultural Rajasthani life and their true love for nature and animals. They are protectorates of this area which is dominated by deer and antelope, often seen grazing in the fields.

Day 5
November 8, 2012 – Rohet ‐ Deogarh
After an early breakfast, the group will drive to Deogarh (approximately 6 hours away). Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your magnificent hotel, which is a castle that dates back to medieval Rajasthan, and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll have some leisure time to relax or perhaps hike in the hills or take a walk through the village.

In the evening there will be a cultural performance by local artists and musicians. Overnight in Deogarh.

Day 6
November 9, 2012 – Deogarh

This will be another day to fully enjoy the area and take advantage of a number of activities available. This might include a morning walk with breakfast served along the way, a Jeep drive into the peaceful countryside or a walk in the woods or village. If you’re interested, you may arrange (at your own expense) a relaxing massage by an expert Ayurvedic masseur from Kerala! Overnight in Deogarh.

Day 7
November 10, 2012 – Deogarh ‐ Jaipur
After breakfast, the group will drive to Jaipur (approximately 6 hours) and have lunch along the way. Upon arrival, you’ll check in to the hotel and have time to freshen up before some sightseeing.

In the afternoon, you’ll have time to explore the local colorful bazaar. Here you can souvenir shop and also sample some local vendor foods and sweet treats. You may also get your hands painted with henna from roadside mehandiwalas (ladies that specialize in painting hands with henna). Overnight in Jaipur.

HIGHLIGHT! Known as the Pink City, the origins of Jaipur can be traced back to the 18th century, during the reign of Jai Singh II who ascended the Amber throne in 1699. Today it has grown into a bustling metropolis yet retains its character and charm. Jaipur is filled with massive forts, magnificent palaces, exquisite temples and lush gardens.

Day 8
November 11, 2012 – Jaipur
Today, you’ll take a full day-tour of Jaipur, starting with the Amber Fort. You may ride an elephant or choose to walk the short distance to the main palace. This is an extremely well-preserved building and delightful to explore. You’ll have a chance to visit the Hall of Victory (glittering with mirrors), Jai Mahal and the Temple of Kali.

In the afternoon, your city tour will continue with stops at the Jantar Mantar (Astronomical Observatory) and the Maharaja’s City Palace. Overnight in Jaipur.

Day 9
November 12, 2012 – Jaipur ‐ Karauli
In the morning, the group will drive about 4 hours to the ancient city of Karauli, in time for lunch.

In the afternoon, you’ll walk or go by camel cart to see this 600-year-old city where one can visit local handicraft shops such as those making laquerware, bangles, wooden toys, bamboo items, traditional sweets and more.

You’ll then visit the 500-year-old city palace which is full of frescos, fine stone carvings and paintings. Before returning to the hotel, you may also visit the famous Lord Krishna Temple (Madan Mohan ji) which is in the city palace campus. At night there is an evening Aarti (prayer). Overnight in Kaurali.

HIGHLIGHT! Karauli is somewhat off the beaten path, therefore not as touristy as many places in India. But it’s here you’ll get a sense of royal history and beauty. Known for its red sandstone, it is also considered a holy place to many Indians.

Day 10
November 13, 2012 – Karauli ‐ Chambal
In the early morning, you have the option to take a morning yoga class on the palace terrace (from where you can also view the sunrise!). For yoginis of all levels, this gentle routine will be a great way to start the day.

After breakfast, you’ll enjoy a tour of the area which includes an organic dairy and farm (including horses!). You will then have the chance to stop by a nearby school for poor children and a handicraft workshop that’s run by a local N.G.O.

In the evening, the group will celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights, which is celebrated all over India by welcoming the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi.

You’ll join a family for a Puja (prayer) ceremony. There’ll be an offering of flowers, sweets and money and the evening will end in a fireworks display.

Overnight in Chambal.

HIGHLIGHT! Diwali celebrations will be a highlight of the tour. You’ll get to experience the local culture and religion during a very auspicious time. The night will be filled with a sumptuous variety of traditional Indian cuisine -  home cooked Indian food and  sweets!

Day 11
November 14, 2012 – Chambal
Before breakfast, the group will head out to the nearby Chambal River, where you’ll take a boat ride along this protected waterway. Trained naturalists will accompany the group and provide expert information on the local wildlife. This is a very relaxing and special experience.

After the boat ride, you’ll return to the lodge for breakfast and then have some leisure time to explore the beautiful surroundings, perhaps visiting the nearby village or simply relaxing in the peaceful garden.

In the late afternoon, the group will set out to visit the Bateshwar Temples, an ancient complex located on the Yamuna River. Overnight in Chambal.

HIGHLIGHT! The Bateshwar Temples, located just 10 kilometers away, consist of more than 100 temples dedicated to the Hindu God, Shiva. You’ll be visiting during the annual animal fair which coincides with the most auspicious period for praying at Bateshwar and is an important time for saints, sadhus, tradesmen and villagers.

Day 12
November 15, 2012 – Chambal ‐ Agra
In the morning, the group will depart for Agra. Your first stop is Agra Fort, a massive structure with a 70‐foot high, 1.5‐mile long wall encompassing an astounding collection of well preserved buildings, many of them completed during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan.

At sunset, you’ll visit Taj Mahal the most iconic of all sights in India. Overnight in Agra.

HIGHLIGHT! The Taj Mahal is a breathtaking memorial to Shah Jahan’s wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It took 22 years to complete and was designed and planned by Persian architect Ustad Isa. It’s recognized for its stunning design, perfect symmetry and its elegant domes, intricately carved screens and some of the best inlay work ever created.

Day 13
November 16, 2012 – Agra ‐ Delhi
In the morning, you’ll have another chance to visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise for a different perspective of this wonder. You’ll return to the hotel for breakfast and then drive to Delhi (approximately 4 hours).

Upon arrival in Delhi, you’ll check in to the hotel and will have some leisure time for either last minute shopping or relaxing. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 14
November 17, 2012 – Delhi ‐ Flight home
On this last full day in India, you’ll be taken on an hour-long guided walk of Delhi led by a young person well-acquainted with street life. While this is a look at India’s sadder side, it will be an enlightening way to leave the country as you’ll have a better understanding of how people learn to survive in the city. All proceeds go directly to helping the Trust that is behind putting together this tour. (Note that this is not a slum tour but a walk through neighborhoods.)

After lunch, you’ll have the rest of the day free for last minute souvenir shopping and relaxing. You’ll have access to the hotel until 7 p.m. and will be transferred to the airport in time for your late night flight home.

Add-on Option: Varanasi

Day 15
November 18, 2012 – Delhi ‐ Varanasi
In the morning, you’ll be transferred to the airport to board the short flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival at Varanasi, you’ll check in to your hotel.

After lunch, you’ll drive to Sarnath, one of the most sacred places for Buddhists. This is where Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. You’ll visit famous Dhamaekha Stupa, Moolgandha Kuti Vihar and the Sarnath Museum, which has a rich collection of antiques from Ancient India.

In the late afternoon, you’ll return to Varanasi and, in the evening, visit the Ganges where you’ll take an unforgettable sunset boat ride before witnessing the evening Aarti (prayer) ceremony. Overnight in Varanasi.

HIGHLIGHT! The Aarti is a Hindu devotional hymn normally sung at the conclusion of any religious ceremony or puja, or simply by itself at sunrise or sunset. This is an incredibly spiritual event and one you won’t forget.

Day 16
November 18, 2012 – Varanasi
In the early morning, you’ll drive to Daswamedh Ghat and take a boat ride on the Ganges again, this time to see the cremation Ghats to witness the long-held traditions of one of the worldʹs oldest and most important religions. You’ll enjoy sunrise while boating on the river.

Later in the morning, you’ll visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple which is on the way back to the hotel.

In the afternoon, you’ll be treated to a city tour that includes a visit to Bharat Mata Mandir (Mother India Temple), Durga Temple and Benares Hindu University. Overnight in Varanasi.

Day 17
November 19, 2012 – Varanasi ‐ Delhi
In the morning, you’ll spend time along the Ghats and have one last chance to photograph the pilgrims and devotees as well as the bazaar, filled with food, religious items and souvenirs.

Today you’ll also have a chance to meet with an astrologer to see what your future holds!

In the afternoon, you’ll transfer to the airport to board your flight for Delhi.

Once in Delhi, you’ll check into a hotel to wash and change before transferring to the airport for your evening flight home OR stay the night (additional $50/$65 single) for a flight the following day.

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* Register by June 1 and receive a free copy of the book India: In Word and Image ($60 value). Also save on flights and be matched with another participant to avoid single supplement!

Costs:
Price: $3,975

Additional costs:
In-country flight: approximately $145 (Cost increases closer to departure date.)
Single supplement: $1,100

Optional Varanasi add-on land costs: $745
Varanasi flights: $310 (minimum)

Interested in sharing? We do our best to pair up travelers so as to avoid the single supplement. However, priority is given to the first deposits received. If you’re interested in sharing – PLEASE send in deposit as soon as possible in order to take advantage of this benefit. (Why a single supplement charge? See this FAQ page for an explanation.)

Final payment due no later than September 4, 2012.

Price includes: 13 nights accommodation in 3-4 star hotels, all ground transportation within India, sightseeing entrance fees, English-speaking guides, all meals and bottled water.

Price does not include: Flights to and from Delhi, visas, evacuation insurance (highly recommended), souvenirs, personal purchases (such as snacks), beverages and tips (suggested for all guides and drivers).

We recommend MedEx Assist for travel and/or evacuation insurance.

This trip is limited to 15 women and requires an $800 deposit on a first come, first served basis.
Minimum required: 6 people

Registration Form North India 2012 (PDF)

For deposits and payments, please make payable and send check to:

WanderTours
PO Box 16102
Seattle, WA 98116

For questions, please contact Beth:
beth (at) wandertours (dot) com
888-818-9918

It’s easy to make your deposit of $800! Simply click on the Buy Now button below and you’ll be taken to PayPal where you add your debit or credit card information. Subsequent payments may be made through PayPal by sending to: beth (at) wandertours (dot) com.

North India Packing List: Provided upon registration

North India Cultural Tour 2012 Itinerary

Tour Leader:
About Dianne
Dianne has spent the last 17 years living life On the Road, mostly in India but with forays into Nepal, SE Asia and brief stopovers in Europe, the Middle East and her home country of New Zealand. Her deep love of India has become a lifetime romance as she has penetrated the deepest jungles, climbed to the source of the Goddess River Ganga and marched with a thousand naked saddhu in the famous Khumba Mela. A wordsmith and a writer, she has written two books on India and is working on a third.

She loves to pester the locals with questions, beg for stories and seek out recipes and has developed a unique insight into India and her amazing variety of life. She measures journeys not in miles but in friendships and loves to lead people directly to the heart of India through the heart connections she has made over the years. Travel for her is about living your passion so she will be asking you about yours and trying to match your deepest desires with the popular Indian phrase, “Sub kutch milega” (Everything is possible).

Related Links:
India FAQs
What to expect in India
Hotels in North India
North India Photo Gallery
Beth’s recommended books on India