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A Women’s Tour - A Tapestry of Textiles, and Premier Cultural and Religious Sites of North India, January 11 to 28, 2011

 

RugTerra Nova Travel is pleased to present another KarmaQuest trip specially designed for Christina Wilson and friends. This trip takes us to some of India’s oldest and most renowned centers of textile production and artistry where we’ll see ancient techniques of creating and decorating fabrics that still hold an important place in Indian society today. We’ll hear from masters of these ancient arts, watch as skilled craftsmen and women create museum-quality handicrafts.

We’ll visit premier religious and cultural sites with priceless 2000 year old Buddhist statues and art, and of course the famous Taj Mahal in Agra before trip’s end. In the historic and thriving urban centers of Mumbai and Delhi, we’ll tour not only the sightseeing ‘must sees’ but lesser known favorites that reveal the unique rhythms of life on India’s streets today. In smaller towns, we’ll have time to roam the bazaars and meet local artisans whose wares will surely tempt our pocket-books. In Rajasthan, we’ll live like maharanis in restored 18th* century palaces, dining in exquisite North Indian cuisine, indulging in ayurvedic spa treatments and gracious Indian hospitality. The itinerary is paced at an unhurried tempo and planned to allow you to opt out of scheduled activities from time to time and spend time as you wish.

Note: Trip dates include international travel days for most flight routings. Please check your routing and schedule carefully.

PROPOSED ITINERARY

Day 1:  Departure from US (January 11, Tuesday)

Leave your home city on January 11th (depending upon flight routing)

Day 2: Arrive in Mumbai (January 12, Wednesday)

MumbaiArrive at the Mumbai airport (possibly late at night/early in the morning), where you’ll be met and assisted with a transfer to your hotel for check-in. The Taj Mahal Tower Mumbai is a prestigious luxury hotel located in the Colaba region of Mumbai, next to the Gateway of India and close to the Arabian Sea. Rooms offer a refreshing mix of European style. The Taj Mahal Tower (1973) stands in harmonious contrast to the century old Taj Mahal Palace. Overnight (O/N) at the Taj Mahal Tower (or similar), Mumbai.

 

 

 

Day 3: Mumbai (January 13, Thursday)

After a leisurely morning to recover from the long flight, proceed on a city tour of Mumbai. Return to the hotel to rest before a Welcome Dinner of delicious Indian cuisine. Overnight (O/N) at the Taj Mahal Tower (or similar), Mumbai. B/D

Day 4: Mumbai / Aurangabad (January 14, Friday)

Take a 45 min morning flight to Aurangabad and transfer to the hotel for a short rest and lunch. In the afternoon, drive to the Ellora Caves (29 km). A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 34 monasteries and temples, extending over more than 2 km, were dug side by side in the wall of a high basalt cliff. This uninterrupted sequence of monuments, dating from A.D. 600 to 1000, is a complex a unique artistic creation and a technological wonder. Its sanctuaries are devoted to Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism, illustrating the spirit of tolerance that was characteristic of ancient India. O/N at the Quality Meadow Inn (or similar), Aurangabad. B/

Day 5: Aurangabad (January 15, Saturday)

Ajanta CavesIn the morning, travel to the Ajanta Caves, 106 kms away. The caves date back to the 2nd century BC. Thirty rock-hewn caves are adorned with Buddhist sculptures and frescoes portraying religious and secular life through eight centuries. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the paintings and sculptures of Ajanta are considered masterpieces of Buddhist religious art, and have had considerable influence on subsequent art. O/N at the Quality Meadow Inn (or similar), Aurangabad. B/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Day 6: Aurangabad / Mumbai / Bhuj (January 16, Sunday)

In the morning transfer to Aurangabad airport for a 45 min flight to Mumbai. Board an onward flight to Bhuj. Proceed for sightseeing of Bhuj, and check into the hotel located outside (15 km) of Bhuj town, a good base for exploring the handicrafts and textile traditions of the diverse Muslim, Hindu, and Jain people in rural Kutch. Overnight at the Garha Safari Lodge(or similar), Bhuj. B/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Day 7: Bhuj (January 17, Monday)

Banni womenVisit the Banni villages to see the traditional handicrafts of Abyssinian settlers (left) who migrated to India from Abyssinia in the 10th century and continue to create exquisite glass embroidery works. Visit the Kala Raksha Center. Co-founded by Judy Frater, former associate curator of the Textile Museum in Washington, D.C., this trust supports local artisans and preserves traditional crafts in Kutch. Overnight at the Garha Safari Lodge (or similar),  Bhuj. B/

The region of Kutch is famous for its embroideries, particularly notable in this stark landscape. Historically, the custom of giving embroidered articles to brides supported the craft, carried from generation to generation. Embroidered articles still form an important part of 'dowry' (right). Embroidery work is also done on leather shoes or 'Mojdi,’ purses, bags, belts, wallets etc. Hodko village in Banni is famous for its Meghwal embroidery and leather work. Banni embroidery,with its intricate minute designs in gorgeous colors, is considered to be the most outstanding and exquisite among the different types of Kachchhi embroidery. This school derives its name from the vast stretch of semi-desert land called Banni. It is represented by the Lohanas of Khavda and the Jats, Mutwas, Harijans etc. of Banni villages. Tunda Wandh, a village between Mandvi and Mundra, is also an artisan's village. We’ll visit several villages to see their unique craft styles.

Day 8: Bhuj / Jamnagar (January 18, Tuesday)

JamnagarAfter breakfast, drive to Jamnagar (approx. 261 km – 5 hrs), located just south of the Gulf of Kutch. Jamnagar has India’s only Ayurvedic university (Ayurvedic medicine is a system of traditional medicine native to India), and is known for its four marble Jain temples, built during the 16th and 17th centuries. After a short tour of town, enjoy a restful afternoon day at your leisure. O/N at the Hotel Express(or similar), Jamnagar. B/

 

 

 

 

Day 9: Jamnagar (January 19, Wednesday)

Tie and DyeIn the morning visit “tie and dye” centers where the original “tie-die” designed fabric is produced, and made into clothes. Gold embroidery work is also done on cloth and clothes (left). Return to the hotel. O/N at the Hotel Express(or similar), Jamnagar. B/
 
Bandhni (tie and dye) was introduced in Jamnagar when the city was founded 400 years ago. This city has now become one of the principal centers of bandhni, creating new patterns and experimenting with modern colors. The centers of tie and dye fabrics in Gujarat are Ahmedabad and Jamnagar (in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat), where the water brings out the brightest reds while dyeing.

 

 

Day 10: Jamnagar / Ahmedabad (January 20, Thursday)

In the morning drive to Ahmedabad (approx. 313 km/6 hrs via Rajkot). On arrival check in to the hotel, have lunch and take a short rest. In the afternoon proceed for sightseeing to the Gandhi Ashram, where Mahatma Gandhi -- “Father of the Nation” -- stayed from 1915 to 1933 in “search of Truth and to develop Fearlessness.”  We’ll learn of his life and see some of his belongings representing his commitment to simple living. We’ll also visit the Sidi Syed Mosque and the Bhadra fort, historical sites of Ahmedabad. Overnight at the Le Meridien Hotel(or similar), Ahmedabad. B/

Day 11: Ahmedabad / Udaipur (January 21, Friday)

Take an early morning walk in the old city when traders are out, passing under the “prols” or gates and through narrow lanes of old Ahmedabad. Afterward, visit the Calico Museum of Textiles, a mecca among textile museums, with one of the world’s finest collections of antique and contemporary Indian textiles, including rare tapestries and costumes, furniture and crafts gathered from throughout India. It is housed in traditional village houses and is located in Shahi Bagh Gardens, about 5 km north of Ahmedabad. After lunch, drive to Udaipur (approx. 246 km - 5 hrs). Overnight at the Shiva Niwas Palace Hotel(or similar), Udaipur. B/

Day 12: Udaipur (January 22, Saturday)

Ceramic PeacockProceed for morning sightseeing of Udaipur’s City Palace Museum (see below) where royal treasures are on display. Imagine the life of a maharani in these times!  Afterward, tour the picturesque Lake Pichola – ringed by palaces and stately mansions -- by boat and return to shore for lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll have a choice of free time to relax at your hotel or explore Udaipur; or transfer (28 km) to the luxurious Devi Garh Palace Resort for your choice of splendid spa treatments. The 18th century Devi Garh palace has been restored using local marbles and semi-precious stones blended with contemporary design and impeccable service. (Spas, lunch and transfers to and from the Devi Garh are not included in the tour price; transfer assistance will be provided). Dinner on your own. Overnight at the Hotel Shiv Niwas Palace(or similar), Udaipur. B/

A blend of Medieval European and Chinese architecture, Udaipur’s City Palace complex has a number of remarkable buildings of immense beauty, gardens and fountains. The oldest part of the palace, 'Raj Aangan' (Royal Courtyard-1571), was built by Maharana Udai Singh in the 16th century. The main part of the palace with its several ' Mahals' is now preserved as a museum. Most all the rooms have beautiful paintings, inlay glass work, antique furniture and colorful enamel.

Day 13: Udaipur / Jaipur (January 23, Sunday)

Depart one royal city for another: Jaipur. In the morning transfer to airport to board a one hour flight to Jaipur; transfer to the hotel.  Later proceed for a sightseeing of this pink sandstone city, visiting the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) left, City Palace and the museum, the Observatory and the bazaar, famous for colorful clothes, jewelry, and much more. Overnight at the Jai Mahal Palace, set amidst 18 acres of beautifully landscaped Moghul gardens. Overnight at the Jai Mahal Palace(or similar), Jaipur. B/

 

 

Day 14: Jaipur (January 24, Monday)

In the morning, visit the Amber Fort (riding by elephant to the top of the fort), with its highlights the Kali Mandir, Jai Mahal and Sheesh Mahal. In the afternoon, visit Sanganer town to see the famous “tie and dye” process (of a different look than in Jamnagar) and the production of hand-made paper. Overnight at the Jai Mahal Palace(or similar), Jaipur. B/

Day 15: Jaipur (January 25, Tuesday)

Three nights in Jaipur will allow time to enjoy this amazing city at a relaxed pace. You can opt out of any activities and simply relax in our regal hotel. Today takes us out of Jaipur (25 km) to Bagru, a town famous for its wood block printing on textiles. Afterward, return to the hotel for leisure time. In the evening, enjoy a sumptuous dinner of North Indian fare with Rajasthani dances. Overnight at the Jai Mahal Palace(or similar), Jaipur. B/

Day 16: Jaipur / Agra (January 26, Wednesday)

In the morning drive to Agra (approx. 5 hrs), en-route visiting Fatephur Sikri, an ancient city site built during the second half of the 16th century by the Emperor Akbar. Fatehpur Sikri (the City of Victory) was the capital of the Mughal Empire for some 10 years. The stunning complex of red sandstone monuments and temples (right) includes one of the largest mosques in India, the Jama Masjid. Later drive to Agra and check into the Grand Imperial Hotel (a Heritage hotel). Overnight Grand Imperial Hotel(or similar), Agra. B/

Day 17: Agra / Delhi (January 27, Thursday)

Taj MahalEarly morning visit to Taj Mahal, when the light is at its best. Built by Shah Jahan, this stunning monument is a symbol of his eternal love for his wife, Mumtaz. Afterward, proceed for a visit to the historic Agra Fort, show-casing India’s skills in sand-stone carving.  Today is India’s Republic Day (celebrating independence from British rule, in 1947). Sites will be open and the air will no doubt be festive!  In the afternoon, drive to Delhi (4 hrs), and check in to your hotel for a short rest before a sumptuous Farewell Dinner. O/N at the Taj Palace Hotel(or similar), Delhi. B/D

The Taj Mahal is widely considered the finest example of Mughal architecture anywhere, combining elements of Persian and Indian styles. It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 when it was described as a "universally admired masterpiece of the world's heritage.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

Day 18: Delhi departure (January 28, Friday)

Check out from the hotel and proceed for a sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi visiting the Red Fort, Mahatma Gandhi Memorial, India Gate and the towering Qutab Mindar. Later in the afternoon or evening transfer to international airport to board the flight for your onward journey. (Note: those wishing late check-out from the hotel may request it, for an extra charge). B/

(End of Services)

Social Service Projects & Donations
There are many service projects (NGO) are in North India (including those mentioned and visited in the itinerary).  Your tour organizers will select one to be the beneficiary of a group donation, be it monetary and/or a donation of needed materials, equipment, etc.

Individual donations to social service projects are entirely up to you. We strongly encourage travelers to channel their generosity through an established and reputable organization, rather than give to beggars on the street (Note: some travelers have their own etiquette, e.g., donating to religious mendicants, handicapped persons. Please be aware that sometimes such beggars are frauds).

Rooming Arrangements/Group Size
Trip participants will share a room with other participants on a rotation basis, and will have the opportunity to rotate into a single room time to time. There are no single supplements. The minimum group size will be 7 and the maximum group size will be 11 (including Christina Wilson) plus the Trip Leader, Wendy Lama.

 Trip Cost

US $7,905 per person for a 7-8 member group excluding airfare within India*

US $7,490 per person for a 9-11 member group excluding airfare within India*

Tour Cost Includes:

Tour Cost does not Include:

Bookings and Deposits:

To confirm your participation on this trip, please send a payment of $1,850 per person as a non-refundable deposit to Terra Nova Travel, LLC along with your completed Booking and Deposit Form, a copy of your passport picture page, Release of Liability and a signed Cancellations and Refunds form.

Since space is limited, please send your deposit and completed forms to Terra Nova Travel, LLC as soon as possible and no later than December 1, 2009 to reserve your place.

SEND TO: Terra Nova Travel, LLC, 2154 NW Aspen Ave, Portland OR 97210

Full payment will be due by June 1, 2010

Upon receiving your deposit we will send you the following:

Pre/Post Tour Extensions:

Pre- or post-trip extension packages will be offered to the following destinations:
Delhi, Varanasi/Bodhgaya, Dharamsala, and Goa
We would be happy to customize a trip extension to anywhere else in the region upon request.